general information
From the timeless tranquility of the desert to the lively bustle of the souk, Dubai offers a kaleidoscope of attractions for visitors. The emirate embraces a wide variety of scenery in a very small area. In a single day, the tourist can experience everything from rugged mountains and awe-inspiring sand dunes to sandy beaches and lush green parks, from dusty villages to luxurious residential districts and from ancient houses with wind towers to ultra-modern shopping malls.
The emirate is both a dynamic international business centre and a laid-back tourist escape; a city where the sophistication of the 21st century walks hand in hand with the simplicity of a bygone era. But these contrasts give Dubai its unique flavour and personality; a cosmopolitan society with an international lifestyle, yet with a culture deeply rooted in the Islamic traditions of Arabia.
Since earliest times, Dubai has been a meeting place, bringing together the Bedouin of the desert interior with the pearl-diver, the merchant of the city with the sea-going fisherman.
Dubai is fast becoming one of the world’s favorite and most exclusive tourist destinations and offers the very best in sports, entertainment, adventure and shopping. From enjoying a lazy day at one of the many 5 star beach clubs, where you will be waited on hand and foot to a round of golf at one of the 7 world-class golf courses, to enjoying the thrill of Dune Bashing in the desert you will find it all here.
If you visit Dubai during the Annual Shopping Festival you will not only be able to soak up a truly magnificent atmosphere which engulfs the entire city for a whole month, but you may even pick up bargain electrical goods, clothes and even win yourself a luxury car or apartment in the fantastic draws available at this time. Dubai certainly has that carnival feel during the Dubai Shopping Festival.
Dubai can guarantee you an all year round tan! The skies are blue and the temperatures range form 24C in January to as high as 45C in July. Rainfall is very irregular so no matter what time of year you plan to visit you can be sure the weather will not put a damper on your holiday.
Amongst all the glitz and glamour Dubai still has a traditional side. A visit to Dubai museum is a must for those interested in the growth of this captivating city. There are also many other places of interest providing a glimpse at life in Dubai before the discovery of oil.