Places you should absolutely visit in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are two of the world’s most exciting, rapidly
changing cities. Packed with soaring skyscrapers, chic shopping malls and
luxury resorts, both offer a surfeit of hedonistic pleasures and
futuristic style. With Eyewitness Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi, they are
yours to explore.
Both these cities have rewritten the record books and established themselves
as global icons with recent mega-developments. Dubai’s sail-shaped Burj Al
Arab Jumeirah is one of the Middle East’s most instantly recognizable
landmarks, now rivalled by the cloud-capped Burj Khalifa, the world’s
tallest building. In Abu Dhabi, the extravagant Emirates Palace hotel and
monumental Sheikh Zayed Mosque have set their own raft of records, with the
Abu Dhabi Louvre poised to add further lustre to the city’s ever-growing
array of attractions.
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Although modern developments inevitably hog the headlines, both cities –
Dubai especially – have an older and much more traditional side. The
labyrinthine souks of Deira and the historic windtower houses of Bur Dubai
are a joy to explore, while a ride on Dubai’s breezy creek is the highlight
of any visit. Outside the two cities the desert landscape is spectacular,
and is best appreciated with an exhilarating afternoon drive across the sand
dunes.
Whether you’re coming for a weekend or a week, our Top 10 guide brings
together the best of everything the two cities can offer, whether shopping
for spices in the backstreets of Deira or exploring the futuristic
cityscapes of Dubai Marina and Al Maryah Island. The guide gives tips
throughout, from seeking out what’s free to avoiding the crowds, plus nine
easy-to-follow itineraries designed to help you visit a clutch of sights in
a short space of time. Add inspiring photography and detailed maps, and
you’ve got the essential pocket-sized travel companion. Enjoy the book, and
enjoy Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Exploring Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Both Dubai and Abu Dhabi are very spread out, and away from the old centre
of Dubai you won’t see much by walking. Fortunately, Dubai’s superb modern
metro system makes getting around easy, while in Abu Dhabi there are plenty
of inexpensive taxis. Whether you have just a couple of days or more time to
explore, here are some time-efficient ideas to help you make the most of
your visit.
Two Days in Dubai
Day 1
MORNING
Visit the Dubai Museum (closed Fri mornings) and take in the historic Al
Fahidi district.
Catch an abra across Dubai Creek and explore the souks in Deira.
AFTERNOON
Head down to the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah for afternoon tea (advance booking
required), then stroll over to the Madinat Jumeirah at sunset.
Day 2
MORNING
Begin with a visit to the soaring Burj Khalifa for panoramic Dubai views
over the city (book your ticket in advance to save money), and then browse
the chic shops of the adjacent Dubai Mall.
AFTERNOON
Head out into the sands for a desert safari, starting with a spot of dune
bashing. Round off the day with an evening of henna painting, belly dancing
and other traditional activities.
Seven Days in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Day 1
Start by visiting the Dubai Museum and then explore the historic Al Fahidi
and Shindagha districts. Towards mid-afternoon head out of the city on a
desert safari.
Day 2
Visit the beautiful Jumeirah Mosque, then take a taxi or metro via Sheikh
Zayed Road so that you can admire the skyscrapers en route to the Dubai Mall
and Souk al Bahar. Towards sunset, head up the Burj Khalifa for stunning
views. End the day watching the spectacular Dubai Fountain.
Day 3
Take a day trip to explore either the excellent museums and traditional
buildings of Sharjah or the marvellous mud-brick forts and oases of idyllic
Al Ain.
Day 4
Head to Abu Dhabi to spend a day exploring the Downtown area and the
wonderful Corniche. Book in advance for afternoon tea or dinner at opulent
Emirates Palace.
Day 5
Visit the monumental Sheikh Zayed Mosque, then head down to the Abu Dhabi
Louvre before returning to Dubai.
Day 6
Explore the labyrinthine souks in Deira. Then head down to the quirky
Egyptian-themed Wafi City before ending the day with drinks or a meal in the
landmark Raffles Dubai.
Day 7
Admire the quirky Ibn Battuta Mall, then explore Dubai Marina. Next, head up
to the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah for afternoon tea (advance booking required)
and explore the stunning Madinat Jumeirah.
TOP 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Highlights
The cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer the best of East and West – Arab
culture, Bedouin heritage and Islamic architecture, plus sophisticated
shopping, dining and hotels. Dubai is set around its creek and skirted with
white-sand beaches, while Abu Dhabi is located on a fine corniche.
Burj Khalifa The world’s tallest building and the jewel in
the crown of modern Dubai.
Dubai Museum Housed in an 18th-century fort, the Dubai
Museum, with its fascinating displays, provides a comprehensive introduction
to the city.
Dubai Creek Crisscrossed by abras (water taxis) and dhows
(old wooden boats) each day, this waterway is Dubai’s.
Al Fahidi The gypsum and coral courtyard houses in this
quarter (also known as Bastakiya) were built by Persian merchants who
settled here in the 20th.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah This iconic seven-star hotel has long
been the defining symbol of Dubai and is still a recog nizable land mark,
rising high above the coast.
Dubai Souks Bargain for gold, perfume, spices and textiles,
or simply take in the heady atmosphere of Dubai’s souks.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque This vast, snowy-white mosque is topped
with myriad domes and minarets. The immense prayer hall is a real
highlight.
Emirates Palace The jaw-dropping display of gold lining the
walls and Swarovski crystals dripping from the chandeliers at Abu Dhabi’s
Emirates Palace hotel make for an impressive sight.
Desert Escapes A visit to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is
incomplete without a desert experience. Stay at an enchanting resort or take
a fun desert safari.
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