EYEWITNESS TRAVEL
TOP
DUBAI
& ABU DHABI
LARA DUNSTON &
SARAH MONAGHAN
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Title-page “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v1.3)
001_Top_10_Dubai.indd 1 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 2nd October 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Top 10 Dubai and The Top 10
Abu Dhabi Highlights of Everything
Welcome to Dubai and Culture and Tradition ...................36
Abu Dhabi ...................................5 Art Galleries .................................38
Exploring Dubai and Abu Dhabi ....6 Resorts in Dubai ..........................40
Dubai and Abu Dhabi Children’s Attractions ..................42
Highlights ..................................10 Outdoor Activities .........................44
Burj Khalifa and Around ..............12 Restaurants ..................................46
Dubai Museum .............................14 Best Bars in Dubai .......................48
Dubai Creek ..................................16 Shopping Malls and Souks ..........50
Al Fahidi ........................................18 Dubai and Abu Dhabi for Free .....52
Jumeirah Mosque ........................20 Excursions and Tours ..................54
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah .................24
Dubai Souks .................................26
Sheikh Zayed Mosque .................28
Emirates Palace ...........................30
Desert Escapes ............................32
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Contents “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v1.3)
002-003_Top_10_Dubai.indd 2 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 19th June 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
CONTENTS
Dubai and Abu Dhabi Streetsmart
Area by Area
Deira .............................................58 Getting To and Around
Bur Dubai .....................................64 Dubai and Abu Dhabi .............104
Sheikh Zayed Road Practical Information .................106
and Downtown Dubai ...............70 Places to Stay .............................112
Jumeirah ......................................76
Dubai Marina and General Index .............................118
Palm Jumeirah .........................82 Acknowledgments .....................124
Downtown Abu Dhabi ..................90 Phrase Book ...............................126
Beyond the Centre
of Abu Dhabi .............................96
The information in this DK Eyewitness
Top 10 Travel Guide is checked regularly.
Every effort has been made to ensure that
this book is as up-to-date as possible at the
time of going to press. Some details,
however, such as telephone numbers,
opening hours, prices, gallery hanging
arrangements and travel information, are
liable to change. The publishers cannot
accept responsibility for any consequences
arising from the use of this book, nor for any
material on third party websites, and cannot
Within each Top 10 list in this book, no hierarchy guarantee that any website address in this
of quality or popularity is implied. All 10 are, in book will be a suitable source of travel
the editor’s opinion, of roughly equal merit. information. We value the views and
suggestions of our readers very highly.
Front cover and spine Madinat Jumeirah Please write to: Publisher, DK Eyewitness
and the Burj Al Arab hotel in Dubai Travel Guides, Dorling Kindersley, 80 Strand,
Back cover Dubai Marina at dusk London WC2R 0RL, Great Britain, or email
Title page Riding camels through [email protected]
the desert near Dubai
002-003_Top_10_Dubai.indd 3 17/05/2017 12:54
004-005_Top_10_Dubai.indd 4 17/05/2017 12:54
Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi ❮❮ 5
Welcome to
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.
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.
Clockwise from top: skyscrapers line Dubai Marina; Burj Khalifa; traditional wooden dhow
in front of the Dubai Museum; water pool at Sheikh Zayed Mosque; Aladdin shoes in a Bur
Dubai souk; desert hotel Anantara Qasr Al Sarab, near the Liwa Oasis; aerial view of the
Palm Jumeirah
004-005_Top_10_Dubai.indd 5 17/05/2017 12:54
6 ❯❯ Top 10 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.
Shindagha
Shindagha
Deira
Deira
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Souks
Souks
Madinat Jumeirah Al Fahidi
Madinat Jumeirah
Al Fahidi
Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque
DEIRA
Dubai Marina AL AL TAXI TAXI DEIRA
Dubai Marina
JUMEIRAH
Dubai Museum
UMM SUQEIM
UMM SUQEIM JUMEIRAH Dubai Museum
WASL
BUR DUBAI
Ibn Battuta
Ibn Battuta WASL Sheikh Zayed Road BUR DUBAI
Sheikh Zayed Road
JUMEIRAH
Mall
Mall JUMEIRAH Wafi City
Wafi City
ISLANDS
ISLANDS
Burj Khalifa TAXI TAXI
Burj Khalifa
Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall
Dubai Fountain
Dubai Fountain
Raffles Hot
Around Dubai 0 km 50 views over the city (book your ticket Souk al Bahar Raffles Hotelel
Souk al Bahar
0 miles 50 in advance to save money), and 0 kmm 2 2
0 k
Arabian Gulf then browse the chic shops of the 0 miles 2 2
adjacent Dubai Mall (see p73).
0 miles
To desert safari
Sharjah To desert safari
AFTERNOON To desert safari
To desert safari
Area of main map Head out into the sands for a desert
safari (see p32), starting with a spot of
dune bashing. Round off the day with
Desert an evening of henna painting, belly
Abu Safari
Dhabi dancing and other traditional activities.
UNITED ARAB OMAN
EMIRATES
Seven Days in Dubai
Al Ain
Two Days in Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Day 1
Day 1 Start by visiting the Dubai Museum
MORNING (see pp14–15) and then explore the
Visit the Dubai Museum (see pp14–15; historic Al Fahidi (see pp18–19)
closed Fri mornings) and take in the and Shindagha districts (see p16).
historic Al Fahidi district (see pp18–19). Towards mid-afternoon head out of
Catch an abra across Dubai Creek the city on a desert safari (see p32).
(see pp16–17) and explore the
souks in Deira (see pp26–7).
AFTERNOON
Head down to the Burj Al
Arab Jumeirah (see pp24–5)
for afternoon tea (advance
booking required), then
stroll over to the Madinat
Jumeirah (see p79) at sunset.
Day 2
MORNING
Begin with a visit to the
soaring Burj Khalifa (see Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping mall, is
pp12–13) for panoramic packed with stores, food outlets and attractions.
006-007_Top_10_Dubai.indd 6 17/05/2017 12:54
Exploring Dubai and Abu Dhabi ❮❮ 7
Sheikh Zayed Mosque
is a truly incredible
sight. The exterior is
completely covered in
gleaming white marble.
Key
Two-day itinerary
Seven-day itinerary
Shindagha
Shindagha
Deira
Deira
Souks
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Souks
Madinat Jumeirah Al Fahidi
Madinat Jumeirah
Al Fahidi
Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque
DEIRA
Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina AL AL TAXI TAXI DEIRA
Dubai Museum
JUMEIRAH
UMM SUQEIM JUMEIRAH Dubai Museum
UMM SUQEIM
WASL
BUR DUBAI
Ibn Battuta WASL Sheikh Zayed Road BUR DUBAI
Ibn Battuta
Sheikh Zayed Road
Mall JUMEIRAH Wafi City
Mall
JUMEIRAH
Wafi City
ISLANDS
ISLANDS
Burj Khalifa TAXI TAXI
Burj Khalifa
Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall
Dubai Fountain
Dubai Fountain
Raffles Hot
Raffles Hotelel
Souk al Bahar
Souk al Bahar
0 kmm 2 2
0 k
0 miles 2 2 To desert safari
0 miles
To desert safari
To desert safari
To desert safari
Day 2
Visit the beautiful Jumeirah Mosque
(see pp20–21; closed Fri), then take a
taxi or metro via Sheikh Zayed Road
(see pp70–73) so that you can admire
the skyscrapers en route to the
Dubai Mall (see p73) and Souk al Bahar
(see p72). Towards sunset, head up the
Burj Khalifa (see pp12–13) for stunning
views. End the day watching the
spectacular Dubai Fountain (see p71).
Day 3
Take a day trip to explore either the A desert safari is a popular and
excellent museums and traditional thrilling way of seeing the desert.
buildings of Sharjah (see p54) or
the marvellous mud-brick forts and Day 6
oases of idyllic Al Ain (see p54). Explore the labyrinthine souks in
Deira (see pp26–7). Then head down
Day 4 to the quirky Egyptian-themed
Head to Abu Dhabi (see pp90–101) to Wafi City (see p68) before ending
spend a day exploring the Downtown the day with drinks or a meal in the
area and the wonderful Corniche landmark Raffles Dubai (see p112).
(see pp90–93). Book in advance for
afternoon tea or dinner at opulent Day 7
Emirates Palace (see pp30–31). Admire the quirky Ibn Battuta Mall
(see p83), then explore Dubai Marina
Day 5 (see pp82–5). Next, head up to the
Visit the monumental Sheikh Zayed Burj Al Arab Jumeirah (see pp24–5)
Mosque (see pp28–9), then head for afternoon tea (advance booking
down to the Abu Dhabi Louvre required) and explore the stunning
(see p97) before returning to Dubai. Madinat Jumeirah (see p79).
006-007_Top_10_Dubai.indd 7 17/05/2017 12:54
Top 10 Dubai and
Abu Dhabi Highlights
The entrance to Sheikh Zayed
Mosque at dusk, Abu Dhabi
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Chapter Openers “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v.1)
008-009_Top_10_Dubai.indd 8 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 22nd April 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Burj Khalifa and Around 12 Burj Al Arab Jumeirah 24
Dubai Museum 14 Dubai Souks 26
Dubai Creek 16 Sheikh Zayed Mosque 28
Al Fahidi 18 Emirates Palace 30
Jumeirah Mosque 20 Desert Escapes 32
008-009_Top_10_Dubai.indd 9 17/05/2017 12:54
10 ❯❯ Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Highlights
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.
Dubai Museum
Housed in an
18th-century fort, the Burj Khalifa
Dubai Museum, with The world’s
its fascinating displays, tallest building and
provides a comprehensive the jewel in the crown
introduction to the city of modern Dubai
(see pp14–15). (see pp12–13).
Jumeirah D92 Dubai
Jumeirah
D92
Dubai
Dubai Creek Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Mosque Dubai Souks
Mosque
Souks
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Dubai
D94
Museum
JUMEIRAH
Crisscrossed by D94 D92 JUMEIRAH Museum DEIRA
DEIRA
AL WASL ROAD
JUMEIRAH ROAD
abras (water taxis) and dhows D94 JUMEIRAH ROAD D92 AL WASL ROAD Al Fahidi
D94
Al Fahidi
AL
AL
BUR DUBAI
(old wooden boats) each day, AL WASL ROAD Safa WASL D71 D71 AL SATWA D73 D73 D75 D75 BUR DUBAI Dubai
D92
D92
AL SATWA
Safa
Dubai
WASL
D88
D88
AL WASL ROAD
AL SAFA
Park
Creek
this waterway is Dubai’s UMM SUQEIM RD UMM SUQEIM RD D63 D63 D65 D65 AL SAFA Park E11 SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD Creek
E11
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
D84
lifeblood (see pp16–17). E11 SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD D78 D84 D89
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
E11
D89
D78
Burj Khalifa D85 D85
Burj Khalifa
Dubai Creek
Further Afield Area of Sharjah D71 D71 OUD
OUD
main map D73 D73 METHA
METHA
Dhaid Dubai Creek
E11
A r abian Jebel Ali E66 Al Habna E11
OUD METHA ROAD
JADDAF
Gulf JADDAF
E11 Madam OUD METHA ROAD
UNITED
ARAB E60 AL 0 km 2 2
0 km
AL
MARQADH
Abu EMIRATES MARQADH 0 miles 2 2
0 miles
Dhabi 0 km 50
E20
0 miles 50
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
century (see pp18–19).
Jumeirah Mosque Desert Escapes
Not only is this Dubai’s most A visit to the United Arab
beautiful mosque, it is the only Emirates (UAE) is incomplete
mosque open to non-Muslims. without a desert experience. Stay
A guided visit to learn about Islamic at an enchanting resort or take a
culture is a must (see pp20–21). fun desert safari (see pp32–3).
010-011_Top_10_Dubai.indd 10 17/05/2017 12:54
Dubai and Abu Dhabi Highlights ❮❮ 11
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 (see pp24–5).
Dubai
Souks
Bargain for gold,
perfume, spices and
textiles, or simply take
in the heady atmosphere of
Dubai’s souks (see pp26–7).
Jumeirah
Jumeirah D92
D92
Dubai
Mosque
Mosque Dubai
Souks
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah Dubai Souks
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Dubai
D94 JUMEIRAH Museum
D94
Museum
JUMEIRAH
DEIRA
AL WASL ROAD
D92
JUMEIRAH ROAD
D94 JUMEIRAH ROAD D92 AL WASL ROAD Al Fahidi DEIRA
D94
Al Fahidi
AL D75 BUR DUBAI
AL
BUR DUBAI
D92 Safa D71 AL SATWA D73 D73 Dubai
D92
Safa
AL SATWA
D75
Dubai
WASL
D88
AL WASL ROAD
AL WASL ROAD AL SAFA Park WASL D88 Creek
AL SAFA
D71
Park
Creek
E11 E11 SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
D65
D65
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD
D63
SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD D78
D63
E11
E11 D84 D84 D89
D89
UMM SUQEIM RD
UMM SUQEIM RD
D78
Burj Khalifa D85 D85
Burj Khalifa
Dubai Creek
OUD Sheikh Zayed
OUD
D73 D73 E11 Dubai Creek Mosque
METHA
METHA
D71
D71
E11
OUD METHA ROAD JADDAF This vast, snowy-white
OUD METHA ROAD
mosque is topped with
JADDAF
myriad domes and minarets.
0 km
AL
AL 0 km 2 2 The immense prayer hall is
MARQADH 0 miles 2 2 a real highlight (see pp28–9).
MARQADH
0 miles
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 (see pp30–31).
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 (see pp32–3).
010-011_Top_10_Dubai.indd 11 17/05/2017 12:54
12 ❯❯ Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Highlights
Burj Khalifa
and Around
Opened in 2010, the Burj Khalifa is by far the tallest building
on the planet (828 m/2,716 ft). Its needle-thin outline soars
high above Dubai and is visible from almost 100 km (62 miles)
away. The Burj was planned as the centre piece of the multi-
billion-dollar Downtown Dubai development, but only when
prompted by Dubai ruler Sheikh Mohammed did architects
consider making it the tallest building in the world and a
true symbol of Dubai’s
towering ambitions.
Armani Hotel
1
Occupying several
of the Burj’s lower floors
is the world’s first Armani
Hotel, showcasing the
famous Italian designer’s
chic minimalist style
(below). The hotel boasts
some very trendy bars
and restaurants, which
are open to non-guests
for meals and drinks.
Burj Khalifa
The Exhibition
2 3
Lake
Interesting displays
scattered around the The two observation
entrance foyer and en decks offer incredible
route to the observation views for miles around.
decks chart the history The views straight down
of the construction of the over Downtown Dubai
Burj, commemorating are particularly stunning,
some of the leading with buildings reduced to
figures involved. A display the size of neat models,
of fascinating photos also clustered around the
show the tower when it intense-blue outline of
was under construction. the Burj Khalifa Lake.
NEED TO KNOW Armani Hotel: 04 888 3888; cheaper for floor 124 if
MAP C6 www.armanihotels.com pre-booked online, but
Burj Khalifa: Sheikh The Address Downtown: prices rise for sunset.
Combination tickets for
Mohammed bin Rashid 04 436 8888; floors 124 and 148 must
Boulevard, Dubai; 04 888 www.theaddress.com be pre-booked and also
8888; open 8:30am–6pm • The two observation decks cost more at sunset.
Sat–Thu, 2:30–8:30pm Fri;
adm: adults AED 125–500; are on floors 124 and 148. • Visit in the evening to
children AED 95–500; Entrance is via the Dubai watch the Dubai Fountain
www.burjkhalifa.ae Mall (see p73). Tickets are (see p71) perform to music.
012-013_Top_10_Dubai.indd 12 17/05/2017 12:54
Burj Khalifa and Around ❮❮ 13
Souk Al Bahar
4
and Old Town
On the southern side of
Burj Khalifa Lake are
Souk al Bahar (see p72)
and the so-called “Old
Town”. These mark a
change in architectural
tone from other nearby
buildings with low-rise,
sand-coloured Arabian-
style design (right).
The Exterior
6
The vast exterior (left) is clad in 26,000
individually hand-cut glass panels set into the
aluminium and steel curtain wall. Materials were
designed to resist scorching summer temperatures.
Sheikh Zayed
At.mosphere
7 0
Road
The world’s highest
Looking north from the bar and restaurant are on
observation deck, Burj Khalifa’s 122nd floor.
the view is dominated Fine dining and cocktails
by Sheikh Zayed Road’s in the clouds are the
long line of spiky sky- theme here (see p75).
scrapers, although the
height of the Burj means
that even the tallest is TOP TEN
reduced to relative TOWER FACTS
insignificance. 1 It has more floors (163)
The Address
5 Jumeirah than any other building.
Downtown
2 The world’s highest
Dominating the view 8 mosque (158th floor)
Looking west
to the southeast of the from the Burj, the sea is can be found here.
Burj Khalifa is the huge relatively close at hand, 3 Lifts reach speeds of
Address Downtown hotel with glimpses of the 10 meters per second.
(below), with its unusual beach and views over 4 Over 12,000 people
semicircular sum- the suburb of Jumeirah worked on its construction.
mit. The hotel (see pp76–81), with its 5 A World War II airplane
made world endless sprawl of low, engine was used to test
headlines on milky-white villas. the wind resistance.
New Year’s Eve 6 It takes three months
Burj Al Arab
in 2015, when 9 to clean the windows.
a huge fire Jumeirah
engulfed part and Beyond 7 The total aluminum used
of the building. At the far southern end of is equal to five Airbus 380s.
Fortunately Jumeirah rises the outline 8 The spire contains over
no one was of the Burj Al Arab hotel 4,000 tons of steel.
badly hurt. (see pp24–5). Although it’s 9 Pressurized refuges on
over 10 km (6 miles) away, every 25th floor provide
the hotel’s size means safety from fires.
that it’s clearly visible. 10 It is named after the
Beyond you can make out President of UAE, Sheikh
the outline of the Palm Khalifa bin Zayed
Jumeirah and the sky- Al Nahyan.
scrapers of the marina.
012-013_Top_10_Dubai.indd 13 17/05/2017 12:54
14 ❯❯ Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Highlights
Dubai Museum
This cleverly planned museum makes a great starting point for a
tour of Dubai. It gives an insight into traditions past and present, and
offers a vivid picture of how Dubai has crammed into five decades
what most cities achieve in several centuries. Located in the historic
creekside Al Fahidi district (see pp18–19), the museum is set within
and beneath one of the city’s oldest buildings, Al Fahidi Fort. It traces
the city’s meteoric development from a small desert settlement to
the centre of the Arab world for commerce, finance and tourism.
Archaeological
Multimedia
1 3
Presentation
Finds
Interesting artifacts from An interesting 10-minute
excavations of graves that film presentation with
date back to 3,000 BC archive footage explains
are on display, including the development of
fine copper and alabaster modern Dubai from 1960
objects and a selection onward. The film takes
of pottery (above). you through a decade-by-
decade pictorial tour of
Desert at Night
2 Dubai’s transformation
Exhibitions
over the past 50 years.
Learn how animals that
Old Dubai
live in the Arabian desert 4
have adapted to cope Souk Dioramas
Al Fahidi Fort
with the lack of water, Holographic technology 5
extreme temperatures combined with waxwork Constructed in
and shortage of food. figures (below), smells, 1787, this fort, with its
sounds and archive magnificent watchtower,
footage help transport was built to defend the
BEDOUIN CULTURE visitors back in time to Emiratis against invasion.
Bedu, the Arabic word the creekside souks of Renovated in 1971, it now
from which the name half a century ago. serves as a city museum.
Bedouin is derived,
means “inhabitant of the
desert”. Bedouins would
move from oasis to oasis
by camel and engage in
small-scale agriculture.
The hardships of the
desert have imbued
Bedouin culture with a
strong honour code and
a famous hospitality.
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Three-column, 8.25pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v1.5)
014-015_Top_10_Dubai.indd 14 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 12th May 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Dubai Museum ❮❮ 15
Courtyard
Barasti and 6
Windtower House
The courtyard in the Al
Fahidi Fort (see p19)
houses a barasti (date-
palm frond) house
(right) and windtower
cooling system, which
were both commonly
seen in the region as
recently as the 1950s.
Floorplan of Dubai
Museum
6
7
9
3
8
4
0
2
1
Key to Floorplan
Ground Floor
Basement
NEED TO KNOW
Underwater
Wooden Dhow
7 0 MAP K2 • Al Fahidi
Pearl-Diving
Fort, Al Fahidi St • 04
A traditional Arab
dhow (above) is on show Exhibition 353 1862 • www.dubai
at the exit. For celestial This interesting gallery tourism.ae
navigation, sailors used explains the techniques Open 8:30am–8:30pm
the kamal, a device that used by pearl divers who Sat–Thu, 2:30–8:30pm Fri
determines latitude using wore nose clips so that Adm: adults AED 3;
the angle of the Pole Star they could descend to children AED 1
above the horizon. impossible depths.
• A souvenir area at the
Islamic School Dioramas
8 museum sells traditional
Young Emiratis recite the lines of the
Bedouin artifacts.
Koran under the watchful eye of their tutor • Retain the flavour
in this reconstruction of a 1950s school. of historic Dubai with
lunch or a coffee in the
Bedouin Traditions Display 9 shady courtyard of
A gallery displays the costumes, the nearby Arabian Tea
jewellery, weapons (right) and House Café (see p69).
tools of the Bedouin people.
014-015_Top_10_Dubai.indd 15 17/05/2017 12:54
16 ❯❯ Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Highlights
Dubai Creek
Dubai Creek, fed by the waters of the Arabian Gulf, is the lifeblood
of old and new Dubai. The contrast of traditional wooden dhows
being unloaded at the wharfage against stunning modern
architecture, such as the glass dome-fronted National Bank of
Dubai and the giant ball-topped Etisalat building, is fascinating.
The two sides of the creek are Deira (north) and Bur Dubai
(south) and a walk along either is an ideal way to discover
this multi-faceted city. Getting across the creek is easy:
the nearest bridge for cars is Maktoum Bridge but the
cheapest and most authentic crossing has to be by abra.
Bur Dubai
2
Waterfront
The Diwan and historic
architecture of “Old
Dubai” are best enjoyed
from the Deira side of
the creek: here you
can see windtowers,
minarets and the domes
of the Grand Mosque.
Shindagha
3
Heritage
In the Shindagha area
near the mouth of the
The Diwan
1 creek you will find 3 1 8
the restored house and
With its modern
white windtowers and museum of the late ruler
AL
imposing wrought-iron Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum 2 R AS DEIRA
gates, the Diwan (above), (see p67) and the Heritage AL FAHIDI
or Ruler’s Office, is an and Diving Village (see SIKKAT AL KHAIL ST
impressive and important p66), which showcases 0 A L GHUBAIBA ST AL SEEF RD 9
building (see p65). Arabian culture. 7
BUR DUBAI D u b a i 6
NEED TO KNOW Bateaux Dubai: 04 399 Al Maktoum
Bridge
MAP K1–K4 4994; departs at 7:45pm U MM H U R AIR R D
Floating
daily; www.jaresorts Bridge
Creekside Park: 04 336 hotels.com
7633; open 8am–11pm C r e e k
Sun–Wed, 2–11:30pm Creek Cruises: 04 393 9860; Map of 4 5
Thu–Sat; Adm: AED 5; www.creekcruises.com Dubai Creek
www.dm.gov.ae
• By night, admire the Creekside
Park
Abra Crossing: Route 1: illuminated dhows as they 4
5am–midnight, Route 2: A wonderful expanse
24 hours; AED 1 each way glide along the creek. of parkland, Creekside
• If you need a refreshment
Al Mansour Dhow: Park stretches along
opposite Radisson Blu in the area, stop for a the water’s edge. Walk
Hotel, Baniyas Road; cooling fresh juice at the its length and enjoy the
04 222 7171; departs stall by the entrance to vistas or take a half-hour
at 8:30pm daily the Textile Souk (see p27). cable car ride along the
length of the entire park.
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Three-column, 8.25pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v1.5)
016-017_Top_10_Dubai.indd 16 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 12th May 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Dubai Creek ❮❮ 17
National Bank
Creek Cruises
7 9
of Dubai
Tour operators
One of Dubai’s first offer romantic dinner
modernist high-rises cruises along the creek
is still one of its most each evening aboard
memorable (left). The traditional wooden dhows,
curved façade (inspired often accompanied by
by the shape of belly-dancing and live
a dhow’s hull) Arabian music. The sleek
reflects the Bateaux Dubai offers a
water below more modern and
(see p59). luxurious option.
Dubai Creek Golf Club
5 HISTORY OF
AL DEIRA The Dubai Creek Golf Club building (above) DUBAI CREEK
R AS is one of the city’s most unusual modernist
AL FAHIDI SIKKAT AL KHAIL ST landmarks, with glass-fronted façades nestled Once a tiny fishing
beneath three spiky white “sails” (see p60). settlement sprawled
9 around the mouth of
Abra Trips
Dhow
7 6 8 the creek, Dibei, as
A L GHUBAIBA ST
AL SEEF RD
BUR DUBAI D u b a i 6 Wharfage Abras are flat- it was known in the
16th century, owes its
Al Maktoum Stroll beside the creek bottomed, open-sided existence to the 14-km
U MM H U R AIR R D along Baniyas Road, water taxis and are a (9-mile) Dubai Creek,
Bridge
breezy way to travel the
where colourfully painted
Floating
Bridge
wooden dhows (below) creek. Cram in with other which led into a natural
harbour and established
are moored and boats passengers – the abras itself as a flourishing
arrive from Iran, Oman carry 40,000 people per hub for entrepôt trade.
C r e e k
5 and the rest of the UAE. day – and enjoy the views.
Marsa al Seef
0
Stretching along
the Bur Dubai waterfront,
Marsa al Seef is the
biggest development in
the history of the creek.
Due to open in 2017, it
will have a traditional
souk, abra station, shops,
cafés and a museum.
016-017_Top_10_Dubai.indd 17 17/05/2017 12:54
18 ❯❯ Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Highlights
Al Fahidi
The beautifully restored old Al Fahidi quarter (also known by its old
name of Bastakiya) gives a picturesque glimpse into the city’s past,
in sharp contrast to the futuristic architecture found elsewhere.
As you wander the maze of shady streets and alleys, traditional
windtower houses with elegant courtyards can be seen in sand,
stone, coral and gypsum. The buildings have been restored to their
original state, with Arabesque windows, decorative gypsum panels
and screens. This area is home to art galleries, museums and cafés.
Traditional
Coins Museum
1 3
Architecture
The Coins Museum
The need to remain showcases Arabian
cool prompted money (left)
the vernacular through the
style of the ages. Almost
windtower 500 coins are
courtyard on display
houses. Thick from Ummayad
walls and narrow to Ottoman times,
windows with with touch screens
intricate Arabesque providing fascinating
designs are featured. historical information.
Majlis Gallery
Sheikh
2 4
Mohammed
Named after the
word for a meeting place Centre for Cultural
in Arabic, Majlis is a bijou Understanding
art gallery built around This pioneering centre
a beautifully converted aims to give visitors
whitewashed Arabic and expats a deeper
house with a central understanding of Emirati
garden. It houses the culture. A number of
works of local Emirati activities are available,
and expat artists, and including walking tours
features original pottery, of Al Fahidi (see p55)
Coffee
ceramics, crafts and and regular “cultural” 5
jewellery (see p38). breakfasts and lunches. Museum
This museum reveals
the history of the region’s
favourite drink. Exhibits
include old-fashioned
grinders, coffee pots
and antique tins (above),
and you can try a cup
of Arabian-style coffee.
Old City Wall
6
Restoration work of
the original 200-year-old
city wall (left) has drawn
attention to the history of
this section of the city as
a crucial defensive zone.
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Three-column, 8.25pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v1.5)
018-019_Top_10_Dubai.indd 18 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 12th May 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Al Fahidi ❮❮ 19
Bastakiah
7 NEED TO KNOW
Nights
Restaurant MAP K2
With its courtyard setting, Coins Museum: 04 515
this restaurant boasts an 5035; open 8am–1pm &
Arabian atmo sphere best 5–8pm Sun–Wed,
experienced after dusk. 9am–1pm Thu
The restored building
(left) has been tradition Sheikh Mohammed
ally furnished, with Centre for Cultural
authentic Arabic and Understanding: 04 353
Emirati food served 6666; open 8am–5pm
inside or on the rooftop. Sun–Thu, 9am–1pm Sat;
www.cultures.ae
Coffee Museum: 04 353
8777; open 9am–5pm
Sat–Thu; www.coffee
museum.ae
Bastakiah Nights
Restaurant: 04 353 7772;
open 11am–11pm
• Visit Al Fahidi late in
the day when the golden
light and long shadows
add to the atmosphere.
• For lunch, the Arabian
Tea House Café offers
healthy light meals and
snack options – fresh
soup and salad (see p69).
Arabian Tea
0
House Café
Located in a traditional
courtyard of an Al Fahidi
house, this café is a great
spot to sit amid flowering
Al Fahidi Fort
8 bougainvillea and enjoy
WINDTOWERS An interesting lunch (see p69).
The most distinctive museum that provides
architectural element insight into the history,
of Arabian houses in culture and heritage of
the early 20th century, Dubai. The original walls
windtowers (barjeel) of the fort were built
were designed to create from coral and shell
natural ventilation. With rubble (see pp14–15).
four open sides, each
of which was hollowed XVA Gallery,
into a concave v-shape, Café and Hotel 9
windtowers deflected
the air down, cooling Contemporary art is on
the rooms below. Water display in galleries off the
was thrown on the floor courtyard of this restored
beneath the tower to traditional house (right).
cool the house further. It is also home to a café
and hotel (see p38).
018-019_Top_10_Dubai.indd 19 17/05/2017 12:54
20 ❯❯ Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Highlights
Jumeirah Mosque
Dubai’s culture is rooted in Islam, a fact that touches all aspects
of everyday life. Virtually every neighbourhood has its own
mosque, but the jewel in the crown is undoubtedly
Jumeirah Mosque. This fine example of modern
Islamic architecture was built in 1998. It is a dramatic
sight set against blue skies and is especially
breathtaking at night, when it is lit up and its artistry
is thrown into relief. Built of smooth white stone,
the mosque, with its elaborately decorated twin
minarets and majestic dome, is a city landmark
and an important place of worship.
The Hajj
Mosque Architecture
1 3
Every able-bodied
With its vast central dome
Muslim is expected to (right), this mosque is inspired by
make the annual the Anatolian style. The exterior
pilgrimage to Mecca, is decorated in geometric relief
in Saudi Arabia, once. over the stonework.
Each year millions of
Muslims from all over
the globe do so to be
forgiven of sins, to pray
and to celebrate the
glory of Allah (below).
NEED TO KNOW • The mosque tours are
MAP E4 • Jumeirah Road, intended to help visitors
Jumeirah • 04 353 6666 gain a real understanding
of the Islamic faith, so
Mosque Tours: 10am Sat– make the most of the
Thu, meet by the entrance
Ramadan
2 to the mosque 10 minutes question time to find out
what you would like to
During the holy
month of Ramadan (the in advance (no booking know. Photography is
required); adm: AED 20,
ninth month of the Islamic under 12s free permitted inside.
calendar), Muslims abstain • Each tour lasts about
from food, drink and other • Close to the mosque, 75 minutes. Admission
physical needs from the Lime Tree Café (see includes water, dates,
dawn till sunset. This is p81) serves sandwiches, Arabic coffee, tea and
a time for purification cakes and coffee. traditional pastries.
and to focus on Allah.
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Three-column, 8.25pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v1.5)
020-021_Top_10_Dubai.indd 20 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 12th May 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Jumeirah Mosque ❮❮ 21
CALL TO PRAYER
Wherever you are in
Dubai, you are likely
to be within earshot
of a mosque and to
hear the daily calls to
prayer “Allahu akbar”
(God is great). Today,
the modern-day call
Prayers
5 is transmitted through
loudspeakers; in the
The adhan (call to prayer) rings
out from the minarets five times a day – past the muezzin made
the call himself.
all able Muslims must supplicate
themselves (above) to Allah by praying
Mihrab
on a musalla (traditional mat). 9
The mihrab
Five Pillars of Islam
6 (below) is the niche in
the wall of this and every
The “Five Pillars of Islam”
are: Shahadah, the belief in the mosque that indicates
oneness of God; Salat, the five daily the qibla, the direction
prayers; Zakat, almsgiving; Siyam, a Muslim should face
selfpurification and Hajj, the when praying. This
pilgrimage to Mecca. mihrab gives the impres
sion of a door or a
passage to Mecca.
Minarets
“Open Doors,
4 7
Open Minds”
Two minarets
Guided Tour (above) crown this
Jumeirah Mosque is mosque. The height of the
Mosque
the only mosque in Dubai tallest one – the highest 0
open to the public. The point of the “House of Etiquette
“Open Doors, Open Minds” Allah” – is determined Dubai may be very
inter active guided mosque by how far the call to cosmopolitan, but in
tour, run by the Sheikh prayer should be heard. keeping with mosque
Mohammed Centre for etiquette, you must dress
Minbar
Cultural Understanding 8 conservatively to enter.
(see p18), offers an The minbar is No shorts or sleeveless
opportunity to admire the pulpit from which the tops for either gender;
the subtle interior Imam (leader of prayer) women must wear a
decoration and to gain stands to deliver the headscarf. Remove your
insight into Islam. khutba (Friday sermon). shoes before entering.
Following pages The beautiful interior of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque
020-021_Top_10_Dubai.indd 21 17/05/2017 12:54
022-023_Top_10_Dubai.indd 22 17/05/2017 12:54
022-023_Top_10_Dubai.indd 23 17/05/2017 12:54
24 ❯❯ Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Highlights
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
So recognizable that it instantly became an international symbol for
modern Dubai, the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah (meaning “Arabian tower”),
completed in 1999, is an exclusive all-suite hotel. With its helipad
on the 28th floor and a restaurant seemingly suspended in mid-air,
it is a place of sheer decadence. At a soaring 321 m (1,053 ft), it also
takes the trophy for being the world’s tallest all-suite hotel. Set on
its own artificial island against the backdrop of the turquoise waters
of the Gulf, it is dazzling white by day and rainbow-coloured by night,
when its façade is used as a canvas for spectacular light displays.
Lobby
Talise Spa
NEED TO KNOW 1 4
The lobby is an
Perched on the
MAP C1 • Jumeirah Rd, 18th floor, Talise Spa airy space of marbles,
Dubai • 04 301 7777 is an idyllic retreat with mosaics and hand-
• www.jumeirah.com soothing ocean views. crafted carpets in
Al Mahara: open 12:30– The beautiful decor is swirling patterns. There
3pm, 7pm–midnight reminiscent of baths used is an impressive multi-
Skyview Bar: open by ancient Middle Eastern hued dancing fountain.
noon–2am civilizations.There are
panoramic views from
• In order to enter the the infinity pools.
hotel, you must have a
The Exterior
reservation for a meal, 2
cocktails or afternoon The shore-facing
tea. To do this, call the façade of the Burj is
hotel at 04 301 7600 or covered by what looks
email BAArestaurants@ like stretched translucent
jumeirah.com. The most fabric. This is Teflon-
affordable options are coated woven glass fibre.
drinks at Gold On 27 It is the first time such
and at Scape Restaurant technology has been
& Bar, or food at Bab used in this way in any
Al Yam. building worldwide.
• The dress code at
Skyview Bar
Gold On 27 and Scape 3
Restaurant & Bar is With its sky-high
The Atrium
"stylish chic", and smart location, this rooftop bar 5
casual dress is required offers the most amazing The vast gold-
at Bab Al Yam. vistas of the shimmering leaf-covered columns
coastline. The bar – a and many layers of floors
must for cocktails at rising up from the lobby
sunset – is reached by an (above) give a strange
express panoramic lift. dizzying sensation.
024-025_Top_10_Dubai.indd 24 17/05/2017 12:54
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah ❮❮ 25
The Helipad
0
Jutting out of the
building's summit, the
Burj’s iconic helipad
(below) has featured in
numerous commercials.
It is also a unique
wedding venue, and once
hosted a game of tennis
between Andre Agassi
and Roger Federer.
Architectural
Suites
6 9
Inspiration
The 202 amazing
duplex suites (above) are The billowing sail of the
equipped with the latest Arabian dhow was
remote technology, plus the inspiration for
in-suite check-in and this contemporary
personal butler service. creation (below).
The two Royal Suites offer Access for guests
unsurpassed luxury, even is by helicopter
including a private cinema. or via Rolls
Royces on the
Fish Tanks
7 causeway.
The lobby boasts a
pair of enormous tropical
aquariums. They are so THE CONSTRUCTION
large that members of The Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
the hotel staff have to is said to be one of the
put on diving suits in most expensive build
order to clean them out. ings ever constructed
– an estimated $2
Nathan
8 billion was spent on it,
Outlaw at
though the full cost has
Al Mahara never been revealed. Built
At the base of the on its own artificial island
(which took three years
tower, this lavish to reclaim), the Burj al
but intimate Arab Jumeirah rises to a
restaurant is height of 321 m (1,053 ft);
centred on a it was the world's tallest
circular aquar- hotel until 2007. Inside,
ium. Dine on the building's dazzling
superb seafood decor incorporates over
from a menu 30 types of marble and
devised by 8,000 sq m (86,111 sq ft)
Michelin- of shimmering 22carat
starred chef gold leaf ornamentation.
Nathan Outlaw.
024-025_Top_10_Dubai.indd 25 17/05/2017 12:54
26 ❯❯ Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Highlights
Dubai Souks
Shopping in Dubai is a shopaholic’s dream, with almost nothing
that cannot be bought here, but away from the air-conditioned
marble-floored shopping malls is another experience: the souks.
Many of these, such as the gold, textile and spice souks clustered
beside the creek, date back to Dubai’s beginnings as a palm-
fringed trading port. Exploring their warren-like alleyways is a
delight. Generally, each type of stall, be it spices, crafts, perfumes or
clothing, are located close together, making it easy to spot a good
deal. Bring cash and keep in mind that bargaining is expected.
Deira Covered
Naif Rd Souk,
1 3
Deira
Souk
A kitsch faux desert fort This souk feels more
houses this traditional- Indian than Arabic, with
style souk with every thing a medley of merchandise
from cheap clothes and offered: colourful textiles,
fake designer accessories spices, kitchen ware,
to children’s toys. clothes and henna.
Gold Souk
2
This souk gleams with gold (below), silver and
gems. Prices are competitive; dealers come in from
around the globe and strict regulations are followed.
Map of the 7 4 2 9
VISIT TO A TAILOR’S Dubai Souks
Dubai is a wonderful Dubai Creek
BANIYAS R OA D
place for tailoring, with DEIR A AL KHALEEJ RD
an incredible array of 3 A 8
textiles being widely
available. Various tailors’ 5 SIKKAT ALKHAIL ST
shops can be found A L FA H I D I S T BANIYAS ROAD AL SABKHA RD AL MU SS ALLA H
11C
around the Textile Souk, 6 1 0 A ROAD
but also elsewhere in
Satwa and Bur Dubai. B UR DUB AI BANIYAS
SQUARE
Most tailors will make 0 2 km 3 1
an exact replica from Deira Grand Souk
the original item or a 4
photograph, or you can Sprawling behind the Spice Souk, Deira’s Al
select from their range Souk Al Kabeer (“Big Souk”) boasts hundreds of
of pattern books. shoebox shops clad in coral-stone façades. The cute
little Al Arsa Courtyard at the back is especially pretty.
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Three-column, 8.25pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v1.5)
026-027_Top_10_Dubai.indd 26 17/05/2017 14:30
Date 12th May 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Dubai Souks ❮❮ 27
Dubai Souks 7 NEED TO KNOW
Deira Spice
Souk
This tiny souk is a real Open 10am–10pm
sensory delight. You (some souks shut at
can purchase aromatic 1:30pm to attend the
frankincense and myrrh prayers) • www.dubai
(with charcoal burners tourism.ae
for them), plus an array • Bargaining is expected.
of spices (left) such Start at half of the initial
as cloves, cardamom price and haggle until
and cinnamon. Iranian you reach a compromise.
saffron is particularly
good value, too. • Tax-free prices in
Dubai make luxury
items such as perfume
and electronic goods
highly affordable.
• Around the Bur Dubai
souks are good-value
Indian restaurants.
Dubai Food
9
Souk
Great piles of colourful
fruit and vegetables
(especially dates), huge
hunks of meat and heaps
of ocean-fresh hammour
and shark are just some
of the foodstuffs on offer
at this bustling souk.
Karama Souk
0
This souk offers
“copy” items, especially
watches and handbags.
The quality of much of
the products, although
fake, is very good (below).
Bur Dubai Textile Souk
5
Beautifully restored, this creekside souk
Dubai Creek (above) is covered by an arched pergola. It makes
BANIYAS R OA D
for an atmospheric walkway lined with money
DEIR A AL KHALEEJ RD
lenders and little stalls selling reels of cloured cloth.
3 A
AL SABKHA RD AL MU SS ALLA H ROAD 6 8
Bur Dubai
Deira Perfume
Souk
Meena Bazaar
11C
SIKKAT ALKHAIL ST
1 0 A
A L FA H I D I S T
BANIYAS ROAD
may necessitate a trip
heavy exotic scents like
BANIYAS Be warned, a visit here Fascinating shops sell
B UR DUB AI SQUARE
to a tailor. Wonderful jasmine, oudh, amber
fabrics from all over the and rose, and will also
world, in every colour mix individual “signature
and texture imaginable scents”. Traditional
(silks, satins, brocades, Arabian attars are for
linens and more), are sale alongside well-
laid out before you. known Western brands.
026-027_Top_10_Dubai.indd 27 17/05/2017 14:30
28 ❯❯ Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Highlights
Sheikh Zayed Mosque
Standing guard over the city, the monumental Sheikh
Zayed Mosque is the largest mosque in the UAE. It has
room for 40,000 worshippers and attracts vast crowds
during festivals such as Eid. Built between 1996 and
2007, the mosque was the brainchild of the late
president of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al
Nahyan. Vast quantities of marble, gold, semiprecious
stones and crystals were used in the construction,
while the Pan-Islamic design unites styles including
Persian, Mughal and Moorish.
The Exterior
1
The outline of the mosque, with its four great
minarets, dominates all approaches to the city.
Covered in snowy-white Sivec marble from Macedonia,
the building is topped with over 100 domes.
The Prayer
4
Hall Carpet
The floor of the main
prayer hall is covered
in a single vast carpet,
the largest in the world.
Made in Iran, the carpet
is well over 5,000 sq m
(53,819 sq ft) in size,
weighs around 35 tonnes
and contains an estimated
2.26 million knots.
The Prayer
5
Hall Chandelier
The Minarets
Hanging magnificently 6
above the centre of the Four minarets
The Prayer
2 prayer hall is the largest stand at each corner
Hall
of the courtyard, rising
of the mosque’s seven
The cavernous main huge chandeliers. some 107 m (351 ft)
prayer hall (above) is an Produced in Germany, high. The design of the
extravagant showpiece this is the third biggest minarets fuses Mamluk,
of decoration and design, chandelier in the world – Ottoman and Fatimid
supported by 96 marble- measuring some 10 m styles from Turkey and
clad columns inlaid with (33 ft) wide and 15 m Egypt, symbolizing the
mother of pearl. The hall (49 ft) high. It was made diverse traditions of
is capable of holding over using over a million Islamic architecture
7,000 worshippers. Swarovski crystals. around the world.
The Entrance 3
Entrance to the
mosque is via a grand
white arcade (right), with
lines of gold-topped
pillars to either side. The
entrance is fronted by
long pools of water.
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Three-column, 8.25pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v1.5)
028-029_Top_10_Dubai.indd 28 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 12th May 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Sheikh Zayed Mosque ❮❮ 29
The Qibla
8 SHEIKH ZAYED
The prayer hall’s
qibla wall (indicating the Former ruler of Abu
direction of Mecca) has a Dhabi and “Father of the
golden alcove set into UAE”, Sheikh Zayed bin
the wall surrounded by Sultan Al Nahyan (1918–
the 99 names of Allah 2004) became leader
written in traditional of Abu Dhabi in 1966
Kufic calligraphy (left). following a peaceful
coup against his elder
brother. He instigated a
programme that rapidly
launched the city’s
transformation from
Arabian backwater to
global city. In 1971, he
also became the first
president of the newly
formed UAE. Famed for
his generosity, Zayed
remains a revered figure
throughout the country.
The Minbar
0
Sitting alongside
the qibla alcove is the
small minbar (pulpit),
from which sermons
are given during Friday
Prayers (below).
The Courtyard
Tomb of
7 9
Sheikh Zayed
The vast courtyard
(above) has space for Outside the mosque is
30,000 worshippers and the tomb of Abu Dhabi’s
is dazzlingly bright during former ruler, Sheikh
the day. The floral mosaic, Zayed bin Sultan Al
picked out in marble on Nahyan. The tomb is as
the floor, is said to be the under stated as the rest
largest in the world. of the mosque is ornate.
NEED TO KNOW 2pm & 7pm Sat), 5pm & the mosque, and the
MAP V3 • Khaleej al Arabi 7pm Fri building also looks
and Sheikh Rashid bin • Visitors must remove spectacular after dark,
with a unique lighting
Saeed streets • 02 419 1919 shoes and cover arms and system designed to reflect
• www.szgmc.ae/en
legs. Women are asked to the phases of the moon.
Open 9am–10pm Sat– wear a robe and headscarf • For refreshment head to
Thu, 4:30–10pm Fri (provided free).
the nearby Souk Qaryat al
Free guided tours: 10am, • The 5pm Sunset Tour is Beri (see p97), with its many
11am & 5pm Sat–Thu (also a nice time of day to see cafés and restaurants.
028-029_Top_10_Dubai.indd 29 17/05/2017 12:54
30 ❯❯ Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Highlights
Emirates Palace
The stupendous Emirates Palace hotel dominates Downtown Abu
Dhabi’s southwestern side. Opened in 2005 to rival Dubai’s Burj
Al Arab Jumeirah, the hotel cost a reputed $3 billion and is built
on the grandest of scales, stretching for well over a kilometre
along its own exclusive beach. The hotel’s majestic red-sandstone
exterior, topped with rippling domes and surrounded by gushing
fountains, is guaranteed to impress. Even more spectacular,
however, is the lavish interior, a dazzling, shimmering vision of
marble, gold leaf and opulent decorative features.
NEED TO KNOW
MAP N1 • The Corniche,
Abu Dhabi • 02 690
9000 • www.emirates
palace.com
• Officially you need
an advance reservation
to get into the hotel.
However, the lobby is
open to the public. For
reservations email:
guestrelation@
emiratespalace.ae
• For a soothing evening,
Emirates Palace Spa
offers an array of excel-
lent spa escapes, such
as the signature 24 Carat
Majlis with
Swarovski
Gold Radiance Facial. 1 3
• For afternoon tea or a Crystal Arabian Horse
cup of coffee, call into Al Chandeliers Mural
Majlis coffee lounge or You’ll notice the abundant The most impressive of
the Viennese-style café. use of chandeliers the many plush public
For lunch or dinner, try throughout the hotel – at spaces here is the majlis
Mezzaluna (02 690 7999; Emirates Palace, they’re (meeting area). It has a
12:30–3pm & 7–11pm) used like light bulbs and blue ceiling with frescoes
or Sayad (see p95). appear to be sparkling and a magnificent mural
in every single room. of Arab stallions.
Triumphant
Emirates
2 4
Palace Theatre
Arch
Before entering Emirates Emirates Palace has
Palace you’ll be dazzled given Abu Dhabi its first
by a majestic pink theatre, a remarkable
Triumphant Arch gate venue that is the largest
with a dome on top and a in the UAE. The packed
long and grand driveway programme includes
(left). The gate is usually Russian ballet, Arabic
closed but opened for orchestra concerts and
royalty and dignitaries on musical shows like
special occasions. “The Spirit of the Dance”.
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Three-column, 8.25pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v1.5)
030-031_Top_10_Dubai.indd 30 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 12th May 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Emirates Palace ❮❮ 31
Palace Suites 5
Emirates Palace
has 302 plush rooms
and 92 sumptuously
decorated Khaleej and
Palace Suites. On the
fifth floor is a reception
for kings and heads of
state and on the eighth
are suites designed
especially for the Gulf
Rulers. The Saudi suite
(right) even has its
own barbershop.
Palace
9
Gardens
and Fountains
The exterior of the
palace (left) adopts
traditional Arabian
architectural elements
and is painted to reflect
the variations in colour of
the Arabian sands. It is
beautifully enhanced by
its landscaped gardens
and stunning fountains.
Algerian
0
Sand Beach
The white sand of the
1.3-km- (1-mile-) long
beach was imported
from Algeria. A popular
Petrified
Domes
6 7 beach for swimming and
Palm Trees
cricket before Emirates
There are 114
domes here. The most There are 8,000 trees Palace was built, it was
stunning is the Grand within the hotel. The felt the sand wasn’t soft
Atrium dome, decorated date palm, which is a enough for royal feet.
with silver and gold glass national icon, can be
mosaic tiles and a gold seen everywhere.
finial at its apex. Some of the palm trees, ON A SCALE LIKE
petrified to preserve their NO OTHER
natural beauty, look real The Emirates Palace is
and are very impressive. spread over 1 million sq m
(10 million sq ft), with
Gold-Plated
8 over 300 rooms, around
2,000 staff from 50
Lobby
The opulence of the different countries, 114
lobby’s gold interior domes, 1,002 chandeliers,
(left) is dazzling. Until two helipads and a
ballroom capable of
Emirates Palace was accommodating more
built, Abu Dhabi was a than 2,500 people. It is
modest city. It was here claimed even hotel staff
that the city’s wealth sometimes get lost in
was ostentatiously put on the endless corridors.
display for the first time.
030-031_Top_10_Dubai.indd 31 17/05/2017 12:54
32 ❯❯ Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Highlights
Desert Escapes
The Emirates’ desert is sublime in parts and a trip here is incomplete
without experiencing its myriad textures and colours. Not far out
of the cities, camels graze on desert grass. If you don’t have a 4WD
and off-road driving skills, the best way to experience the desert
is at the magical desert resorts Al Maha or Bab Al Shams. Or take a
desert safari, which allows you to tick off a range of experiences
you otherwise would not get a chance to do. If you have time, stay
overnight, sleep under the stars and enjoy the silence.
Ballooning
3
LIWA OASIS Drifting over the desert
The most spectacular in a hot-air balloon (right) is an
desert scenery can be incredible experience. Balloon
enjoyed at Liwa Oasis, Adventures Emirates fly over the
just a few hours drive Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.
from Abu Dhabi. The
sand dunes here are
the largest in the UAE.
Beautifully coloured in
pretty shades of peach
and apricot, the sand
dunes look at their best
shortly after sunrise or
just before sunset.
Desert Safaris
1
Tour agencies
like Arabian Adventures
organize desert safaris.
These may include a
thrilling desert drive in
a 4WD, falconry displays,
camel rides, Arabic
buffets and belly dancing.
Dubai Desert
4
Conservation
Reserve
Experience the unspoiled
desert at this reserve,
with dunes and rare
wildlife, including oryx
and mountain gazelle.
Visit on a day tour or stay
at the Al Maha resort.
Al Maha
5
Resort
Book a romantic tent-like
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort
2 luxury suite, and get your
The palm-shaded gardens and trickling ponds
own plunge pool with the
make this resort (above) enchanting. A wonderful golden desert as your
infinity pool overlooks the desert (see p117). “backyard” (see p117).
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Three-column, 8.25pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v1.5)
032-033_Top_10_Dubai.indd 32 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 12th May 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Desert Escapes ❮❮ 33
NEED TO KNOW
Arabian Adventures:
04 303 4888/343 9966
(Dubai), 02 691 1711
(Abu Dhabi); open 9am–
6pm; from AED 250;
www.arabian-
adventures.com
Balloon Adventures
Belly Dancing
Dune Bashing
6 8 Emirates: 04 388 4044;
Experience an
open Sep–May; www.
Belly dancing is
known as Oriental exhilarating “dune ballooning.ae
dancing in the Middle bashing” session – a Dubai Desert
East, and it has a long white-knuckle 4WD Conservation Reserve:
history. Try to pick up desert drive crashing www.ddcr.og
some moves from the over huge dunes and Abu Dhabi Falcon
dancer at the desert wheel-spinning out of Hospital: Sweton Rd;
safari – she may even dips (above). It is not tours 10am & 2pm Sun–
pull you up for a dance. for the faint-hearted. Thu; www.falcon
hospital.com
• Unless you want to
experience the scorching
heat, it is best to visit
the desert in spring,
autumn or winter.
Bedouin Feast
7
Tuck into a delicious Arabic buffet, such as
the Bedouin feast at Bab Al Shams’ Al Hadheerah
Desert Restaurant. You can experience local
specialities including roasted baby camel.
Falconry
9
Falconry is one of
Camel Riding
the UAE’s most cherished 0
desert traditions, with Become friendly
magnificent birds of prey – with this local beast of
falcons (left), hawks burden. Nothing is quite
and eagles – swooping like a camel ride (above)
across the sands. along spectacular dunes
Displays are offered in at sunset. Ride a camel
various places including at the Heritage and
the Al Maha and Bab Diving Village in Dubai
Al Shams resorts. (see p66).
032-033_Top_10_Dubai.indd 33 17/05/2017 12:54
The Top 10
of Everything
The atrium at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Dubai
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Chapter Openers “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v.1)
034-035_Top_10_Dubai.indd 34 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 22nd April 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Culture and Tradition 36 Restaurants 46
Art Galleries 38 Best Bars in Dubai 48
Resorts in Dubai 40 Shopping Malls and Souks 50
Children’s Attractions 42 Dubai and Abu Dhabi for Free 52
Outdoor Activities 44 Excursions and Tours 54
034-035_Top_10_Dubai.indd 35 17/05/2017 12:54
36 ❯❯ The Top 10 of Everything
Culture and Tradition
in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
You can ride a camel at
the Heritage and Diving
Village in Dubai (see p66).
Fishing and
4
the Dhow
Historically, fishing, pearl
diving and building dhow
(boats) were the main
occupa tions along the
coastal settlements.
Today, Emiratis still use
the old wooden dhow
boats for fishing, trading
An Emirati man training a falcon and tours. Visit dhow-
building wharfs in Deira (see p61).
Falconry
1 Bedouin Society
In the past, falcons were used
The seminomadic lifestyle of
by Bedu to capture small birds and 5
hares. Today, Emirati men still train the Bedu tribes – most of whom
their falcons daily. Some desert spent the harsh summers inland at
resorts and safaris have falconry the cool date-palm oases and their
displays (see p33). winters fishing by the sea – is a
source of pride for Emiratis. Visit the
Traditional Dress
2 Heritage Villages in Dubai (see p66)
Women wear a black abaya
and Abu Dhabi (see p92) for a
(a cloak-like dress) and a black shayla glimpse into the Bedouin culture.
(scarf) to cover their hair. Men wear
Poetry, Dance and Song
a white dishdasha (robe) and a white 6
or checked gutra (head scarf) with a Emirati poetry takes many
black agal (cord) to hold it in place. forms, from the romantic baiti style
to the vernacular nabati poetry.
The Camel
3 Wedding processions are an occasion
for song and dance. Songs and group
A mainstay of the Bedouin’s
nomadic life, the camel enabled dances such as the ayyalah and
Bedouin tribes to move their liwa celebrate bravery in war and at
possessions from coastal villages to sea. Enjoy traditional performances
inland oases. Camel’s milk quenched at the Heritage and Diving Village
their herders’ thirst when water (see p66) and in Downtown Dubai
wasn’t found, while the fur was used during Eid and the Dubai Shopping
to make tents, textiles, rugs, bags Festival (see p39).
and cloaks. Camel’s milk is more
The Arabian Horse
nutritious than cow’s milk, and you 7
can buy it at local super markets Beloved by the Bedouin for
their elegance and valued
for their strength and
sturdiness, the Arabian
horse is one of the world’s
oldest and purest of breeds due
to the Bedouin’s careful breeding.
Camel with a bright saddle blanket
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Two-column, 8.5pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v.1.9)
036-037_Top_10_Dubai.indd 36 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 24th June 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Culture and Tradition ❮❮ 37
Appreciate the beauty of the Arabian
horse at the Heritage and Diving MOMENTS IN HISTORY
Village (see p66) during both Eid
and the Dubai Shopping Festival.
Pearling
8
Up until the 1920s, pearling
was Dubai’s major source of income.
By the turn of the 20th century the
city had well over 1,000 pearling
boats employing most of the city’s
men during pearling season.
The Date Palm
9 Death of Sheikh Zayed
Dates were essen tial for
desert survival. They were used to 1 5110 BC: Abu Dhabi settlement
Date stones on Dalma Island and flint
create tamr, a preserve, tools on Merawah Island attest to
which helped sustain human life in Abu Dhabi in 5110 BC.
the Bedu over long 2 AD 700: Islam arrives
journeys. There The Umayyads bring Islam to Arabia.
are over 50 date 3 1507: European traders reach
varieties in the the Gulf
UAE. The Dubai The Portuguese invasion of the Gulf
Food Souk (see p59) islands and the east coast paves the
A basket is the best place to way for Arabia to start trading with
of dates shop for dates. British, French and Dutch ships.
Henna
0 4 1793: Al Bu Falah tribe settles
in Abu Dhabi
Intricate henna patterns were
painted on pottery across the Middle The Al Bu Falah and Al Nahayan
tribes settle in Abu Dhabi.
East in around 9000 BC (the start of 5 1833: Al Maktoum tribe arrives
the Neolithic period). Today, Emirati in Dubai
women have henna designs painted Under the leadership of Maktoum bin
on their hands and feet for weddings Buti Al Maktoum, the Al Maktoum tribe
and other events. Get henna designs settles at the mouth of Dubai Creek.
at “henna tents” in shopping malls. 6 1894: Tax-free trading
Dubai introduces tax exemptions
for foreigners. Persians are the
first expats.
7 1950s: Discovery of oil
Oil is discovered in Abu Dhabi in 1958
and Dubai in 1966. The fortunes of the
cities are immediately transformed.
8 1971: UAE established
The seven emirates become the
UAE Federation, with Sheikh Zayed
bin Sultan Al Nahyan, ruler of Abu
Dhabi, as the new President.
9 2004: Death of Sheikh Zayed
The UAE goes into mourning with
the death of its president.
10 2008: Credit crunch
The global financial crisis sends Dubai
to the brink of bankruptcy before
intervention from Abu Dhabi.
Henna designs being applied
036-037_Top_10_Dubai.indd 37 17/05/2017 12:54
38 ❯❯ The Top 10 of Everything
Art Galleries
Folklore Gallery
1
MAP Q2 • Zayed 1st Street, Al
Khalidiya, Abu Dhabi • 02 666 0361
• Open 9am–1pm & 4pm–9pm Sat–Thu
One of the best places to find works
of art and craft from across the
region, including handmade greeting
cards, Turkish bookmarks, prints
and handblown glass.
Majlis Gallery
2
MAP K2 • Al Musalla rounda bout,
Al Fahidi neighbourhood, Dubai • 04
353 6233 • Open 10am–6pm Sat–Thu
• www.majlisgallery.com
Dubai’s oldest commercial art gallery
focuses on Arabian and Middle
Eastern themed work by local and The traditional exterior of XVA
expat artists. Browse for good prints,
XVA
ceramics and sculpture (see p18). 5
MAP K2 • Al Fahidi neighbour
hood, Dubai • 04 353 5383 • Open
10am–6pm • www.xvagallery.com
A superb contemporary art gallery
set in a stylish boutique hotel in a
restored traditional house. The idyllic
courtyard café is also used as an
exhibition space (see p19).
Green Art Gallery
6
MAP C2 • Alserkel Ave, Al Quoz,
Dubai • 04 346 9305 • Open 10am–7pm
Sat–Thu • Closed first two weeks in
Abstact artwork at the Third Line August • www.gagallery.com
This established commercial gallery
The Third Line
3 in Al Quoz displays the work of
Emirati and international artists, with
MAP C2 • Street 8, Alserkel
Ave, Al Quoz 1, Dubai • 04 341 1367 a focus on the heritage, cultures and
• Open 10am–7pm Sat–Thu; call environment of the Middle East.
ahead • www.thethirdline.com There is a programme of changing
This gallery showcases playful and edgy exhibitions throughout the year.
work by artists from around the Gulf.
Displays change every couple of weeks. Kanoo exhibition of Pop Art at Art Space
The Empty Quarter
4
MAP D6 • Building 2, the
Gate Village, Dubai • 04 323 1210
• Open 10am–7pm Sun–Thu
• www.theemptyquarter.com
This is the UAE’s only fine-art
photography gallery. It features
Middle Eastern and international
documentary and creative work.
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Two-column, 8.5pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v.1.9)
038-039_Top_10_Dubai.indd 38 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 24th June 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Art Galleries ❮❮ 39
Abu Dhabi Art Hub
7 TOP 10 FESTIVALS AND EVENTS
MAP U4 • Plot 38, Musaffah,
Abu Dhabi • 02 551 5005 • Open
9am–7pm Sat–Thu • www.adah.ae
Focusing on both emerging and
established visual artists, this gallery
encourages interaction and cross-
cultural artistic exchanges between
national and international artists.
Etihad Modern
8
Art Gallery
MAP Q3 • Al Bateen Area, Villa 15,
Huwelat St, Abu Dhabi • 02 621 0145 Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge
• Open 10am–10pm Sat–Thu 1 Dubai Marathon
• www. etihadmodernart.com Jan • www.dubaimarathon.org
This contemporary gallery An annual marathon race across the city.
encourages the creation of art with 2 Dubai World Cup
local references, exhibiting work MAP D3 • Meydan racetrack • Feb–
from well-established and upcoming Mar • www.dubaiworldcup.com
Emirati and international artists. The world’s richest horse-racing cup.
Gallery Isabelle
9 3 Dubai Tennis Championships
Feb–Mar • www.dubaiduty
van den Eynde
freetennischampionships.com
MAP C2 • Alserkal Ave, Al Quoz, Players battle it out at this tennis event.
Dubai • 04 323 5052 • Open 10am– 4 Dubai Desert Classic
7pm Sat–Thu • www.ivde.net MAP B2 • Mar • www.dubaidesert
This gallery predominantly represents classic.com
Middle Eastern artists and favours A renowned golf tournament.
provocative paintings, photography 5 Art Dubai
and mixed media works. Standout Madinat Arena • Mar • www.art
shows include Iranian artist Ramin dubai.ae
Haerizadeh’s photo-manipulation Dubai’s biggest contemporary art fair.
using his own face to recreate 6 Dubai International Jazz Festival
themes from Persian theatre. MAP B2 • Dubai Media City • Mar
• www.dubaijazzfest.com
Art Space
0 Crowds gather for performances by
some of the world’s biggest jazz names.
MAP D6 • Gate Village, DIFC,
Dubai • 04 323 0820 • Open 7 Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge
9am–6pm Sun–Thu Apr • www.abudhabidesert
With a mission to nurture local challenge.com
talent, this gallery has hosted A 4-day motor rally through the desert.
great exhibitions by Middle Eastern 8 Dubai International Film Festival
and Emirati artists. Highlights MAP C2 • Madinat Jumeirah • Dec
include Mohammed Kanoo’s • www.dubaifilmfest.com
Kanoo exhibition of Pop Art at Art Space playful Pop Art. Glam galas and film screenings take
place during this week-long event.
9 Global Village
MAP C3 • Dubailand, Emirates Rd
• Dec–Feb • www.globalvillage.ae
A huge fun fair and shopping bazaar
celebrating multiculturalism.
10 Dubai Shopping Festival
Citywide • Dec–Feb • www.mydsf.ae
A retail and entertainment extravaganza,
with sales, shows and events.
038-039_Top_10_Dubai.indd 39 15/06/2017 16:03
40 ❯❯ The Top 10 of Everything
Resorts in Dubai
The Palm
Jumeirah
A r a b i a n G u l f
DEIRA
JUMEIRAH ROAD D92
AL SUFOUH RD
D92
MARINA AL SAFA D94 Safa JUMEIRAH BUR
Park
AL SUFOUH E11 SHEIKH ZAYED ROAD DUBAI Dubai Creek
0 km 4 UMM SUQEIM RD AL QUOZ D69 D71 D73 D78 D89
0 miles 4 E66
Al Qasr
1 the hotel for its vast selection of
Opulent to the last detail, this
restaurants and bars, including
extravagant hotel looks almost like the trendy club Mahiki and 360°, a
a Hollywood film set, with sweeping super-cool cocktail bar (see p81).
staircases, supersized chandeliers
Ritz Carlton
and lavish Arabian styling (see p113). 4
It is also where you will find the Traditional European design
romantic Pierchic restaurant (see p81), and understated elegance reign
which offers memorable views of supreme at the superior Ritz Carlton
the nearby Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. (see p114). Savour the hotel’s style
over a sumptuous afternoon tea
at the immaculate Lobby Lounge,
sip cocktails in the opulent Library
Bar or enjoy a spot of pampering
at the hotel’s luxury spa.
Raffles
5
All things ancient Egyptian
are the order of the day in this
pyramid-shaped city hotel (see p112).
The lavish foyer, with its huge hiero-
glyphic columns, is a sight in its own
right, while views from the top of
the building can be enjoyed during
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray interior a visit to the trendy Tomo Japanese
restaurant or an evening at the glitzy
Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
2 nightclub People by Crystal.
Dubai’s fondness for
extravagant interior design reaches
fever pitch at this extraordinary Palm
resort (see p113), with a series of
show-stopping restaurants and bars
ranging from the stunning Indian-
style Amala restaurant (see p87)
to the futuristic Voda Bar (see p86).
Jumeirah Beach Hotel
3
Dubai’s famous wave-shaped
resort (see p113) is home to the
ever-popular Wild Wadi Water Park
(see p78). Non-guests also flock to The vast foyer at Raffles
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Two-column, 8.5pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v.1.9)
040-041_Top_10_Dubai.indd 40 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 24th June 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Resorts in Dubai ❮❮ 41
several leading family attractions,
including the Lost Chambers (see
p83) and Aquaventure (see p84).
Non-guests can also use
the beautiful hotel beach.
Park Hyatt
8
A real urban retreat in the
heart of the city, the Park Hyatt’s
serene Moroccan styling and
beautiful creekside setting offer a
genuine sanctuary for the senses
(see p112). The place is best
appreciated over a meal at the Thai
Kitchen restaurant (see p63) or
with a glass of champagne at the
waterfront bar The Terrace (see p62).
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
9
No trip to Dubai is complete
without a visit to the most famous
The opulent One&Only Royal Mirage building in the city – and perhaps
the world. Enjoy a memorable
One&Only Royal Mirage
6 afternoon tea in the dazzlingly
With Moorish-style buildings,
decorated atrium or take in stunning
Dubai’s most romantic hotel is spread views over a cocktail in the sky-high
out along the beach amidst a forest Skyview Bar (see pp24–5).
of palms (see p113). Visit to savour
The Palace
the atmosphere and explore the 0
outstanding restaurants, including A haven of traditional
Eauzone (see p87) and Tagine (see p87), Arabian style amidst the modern
and relax in the stunning Oriental Spa. developments of Downtown Dubai
(see p112). Admire the hotel’s
Atlantis, The Palm
7 sumptuous styling and stunning
This towering arch-shaped
lakeside setting, and have a meal
resort (see p113) at the end of the at the romantic Thiptara restaurant
Palm is one of the city’s most famous (see p75) or take afternoon tea in
landmarks and is also home to the decadent Al Bayt Lounge.
There are numerous attractions for day-trippers at Atlantis, The Palm
040-041_Top_10_Dubai.indd 41 17/05/2017 12:54
42 ❯❯ The Top 10 of Everything
Children’s Attractions
An exhilarating water slide at the Aquaventure water park
Magic Planet
Aquaventure
1 3
Sprawled across 17 ha
MAP E2 • Deira City Centre,
Dubai • 04 295 4333 • Open 10am– (43 acres) next to the Atlantis resort,
11pm Sat–Wed, 10am–midnight Thu– this vast water park has plenty to
Fri • Adm for rides • www.deiracity thrill visitors. Travel through rapids,
centre.com waterfalls and the death-defying
An indoor entertainment venue for Leap of Faith slide (see p84).
all the family, with a merry-go-round,
MOTIONGATE™ Dubai
bumper cars, pitch and putt golf, and 4
video games for children, and a soft- MAP B2 • Sheikh Zayed Rd,
play area for toddlers. Dubai • 04 820 0000 • Open 11am–8pm
Sun–Wed, 11am–10pm Thu–Sat • Adm
Ski Dubai Snow Park
2 • www.dubaiparksandresorts.com
All ski levels and ages can try
Enjoy rides and shows based on the
their hand at skiing or snow boarding Smurfs, Kung Fu Panda and many
on the slopes of the largest indoor other movies, at the Middle East’s
snow park in the world. You can also largest Hollywood-inspired theme park.
meet the resident penguins during
IMG Worlds of
the 40-minute Penguin Encounter, 5
or watch them for free during the Adventure
March of the Penguins (see p77). MAP C3 • Sheikh Mohammed Bin
Zayed Rd, Dubai • 04 403 8888 • Open
11am–9pm Sun–Wed, 11am–10pm
Thu–Sat • Adm • www.imgworlds.com
This large indoor amusement park is
split into four themed zones, including
two based on Marvel Comics and
Cartoon Network, and the exciting
Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure.
Wild Wadi Water Park
6
Dare to try some of the 30
adrenaline-fuelled watery rides or
just float about on a rubber ring along
the waterways of this enormous
Watching the skiers at Ski Dubai outdoor water park (see p78).
042-043_Top_10_Dubai.indd 42 17/05/2017 12:54
Children’s Attractions ❮❮ 43
Yas Waterworld
7 TOP 10 PARKS, GARDENS
Yas Island, Abu Dhabi • 02 414
2000 • Adm • www.yaswaterworld.com AND BEACHES
Offering fun-filled adventures for all
ages, this Emirati-themed water
park features 45 rides, slides and
attractions for the whole family.
Kidzania
8
MAP C6 • Dubai Mall, Dubai
• Open 10am–10pm (till 11pm Fri–
Sat • Adm; under 2s free • www.
kidzania.ae Jumeirah Beach Park
Children take over the world at
Kidzania, a miniature city in which 1 Creekside Park
kids can dress up in costumes A huge botanical park with BBQ areas,
and role-play from a selection of a mini golf course and a cable car
different jobs, including policeman (see p16).
and fireman. 2 Za’abeel Park
MAP F5–F6 • Sheikh Zayed Rd, Dubai
Children’s City
9 A technology-themed park with a
football field, boating lake and cafés.
MAP K3 • Creek Park, Dubai
• 04 334 0808 • Open 9am–7pm 3 Al Seef Rd Park
MAP K2 • Dubai
Sun–Thu, 2–8pm Fri & Sat • Adm; A great place to enjoy the creek action.
under 2s free • www.childrencity. 4 Jumeirah Beach Park
dm.gov.ae This park has landscaped play areas
Housed in a brightly coloured and a beach with sunbeds (see p78).
building, this play zone places an 5 Al Mamzar Beach Park
emphasis on education. Activities MAP F1 • Al Hamriya, Dubai • 04 296
focus on subjects ranging from space 6201 • Open 8am–10pm; Mon is for
exploration to international culture. women and children (boys under 4)
only • Adm
A child-friendly beach park with huge
picnic areas, four swimming beaches, a
mini train and bikes for hire.
6 Umm Suqeim Beach
MAP C2 • Off Jumeirah Beach Rd,
Dubai
This public beach has shallow waters
and views of the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.
7 Safa Park
A huge park with lots to do. Try the
trampoline cage for fun (see p77).
8 Mushrif Park
MAP F3 • Al Khawaneej Rd, Dubai
• Open 8am–10:30pm Sat–Wed,
8am–11:30pm Thu–Fri • Adm
A desert park with pools, farm animals,
The futuristic Sega Republic a theatre and a botanic garden.
9 Russian Beach
Sega Republic
0 MAP D4 • Jumeirah Rd, Dubai
This lively local beach is popular with
MAP C6 • Dubai Mall, Dubai
• 04 448 8484 • Open 10am–midnight Russian expats and tourists.
• Adm • www.segarepublic.com 10 Kite Beach
Inside the Dubai Mall is an enormous MAP C2 • Umm Suqeim, behind
Wollongong University, Dubai
amusement arcade and theme park. A popular spot for watersports.
Pay individually for rides, games and
attractions, or buy a combined pass.
042-043_Top_10_Dubai.indd 43 17/05/2017 12:54
44 ❯❯ The Top 10 of Everything
Outdoor Activities
Wind Surfing
3
Great winds make Dubai
an ideal wind-surfing destination.
Most good beach resorts hire out
equipment and also offer wind-
surfing lessons. The Westin Mina
Seyahi hotel (see p113) is particularly
renowned for its facilities.
Fishing
4
Join an organized fishing
trip where equipment is provided.
Cook your fish on board or charter
your own boat. Le Meridien Mina
Seyahi Resort in Dubai (see p113)
and the Beach Rotana in Abu Dhabi
Skydiving over the Palm Jumeirah (see p116) offer great fishing trips.
Skydiving
Motor Racing
1 5
Dubai Autodrome Kart-drome:
Skydive Dubai: MAP B1;
Al Sufouh Rd, Dubai; 04 377 8888; Emirates Rd, Dubai; MAP B3; 04 367
www.skydivedubai.ae 8700; www.dubaiautodrome.com
For the ultimate Dubai high, strap Adrenaline-junkies can burn rubber
yourself into a parachute and dive driving pro-karts at the Dubai
into the city. Skydive Dubai arrange Autodrome. The Formula 1 standard
tandem jumps over racing circuit has 17 hair-raising
the Palm Jumeirah, turns. Book ahead for
and run a training lessons at the excellent
school in the desert. driving school.
Hot-air
Scuba Diving
2 Racing car, the Autodrome 6
Ballooning
Emirates Diving
Association: MAP K1; Getting a bird’s-eye-
Heritage Village and Diving Village, view of the desert from a hot-air
Al Shindagha; 04 393 9390; balloon is simply sublime. Only by
www.emiratesdiving.com floating way above the dunes can you
A popular local activity, the Emirates fully appreciate the waves of sand and
Diving Association offers information patterns of light and shadow crafted
on diving in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and by the ridges that are impossible to
some of the East Coast towns. see from the ground (see p32).
A hot-air balloon floating
over the desert landscape
044-045_Top_10_Dubai.indd 44 17/05/2017 12:54
Outdoor Activities ❮❮ 45
Wakeboarding
7 TOP 10 SPECTATOR SPORTS
Hiltonia Beach Club: MAP Q2;
Corniche Road West; Abu Dhabi;
02 692 4205; www3.hilton.com
Try your hand at some wakeboarding
tricks on the Arabian Gulf sea.
If you’re a first-timer, the best place
to learn is at a resort. Le Meridien
Mina Seyahi Resort in Dubai (see
p113) and the Hiltonia Beach Club
in Abu Dhabi offer great lessons.
Golfing
8 Runner in the Dubai Marathon
Dubai Golf: www.dubaigolf.com
Both Dubai and Abu Dhabi are awash 1 Dubai World Cup
with world-beating courses. Several Dress up for the world's richest horse
international competitions take place race with a $6 million prize (see p39).
every year, including the Dubai 2 Dubai Desert Classic
Desert Classic at the city’s largest Watch the world's best golfers compete
course, the Emirates Golf Club. in this 4-day tournament (see p39).
3 Dubai Tennis Championships
See the big guns of world tennis serve
action at Dubai Tennis Stadium (see p39).
4 Dubai Rugby Sevens
Nov • www.dubairugby7s.com
The first leg of the Sevens World Tour is
loved by rugby fans all over the world.
5 Camel Racing
Al Wathba Camel Track, 45 km
(30 miles) east of Abu Dhabi
• Oct–Mar Thu–Fri
Watch Emiratis drive their 4WDs
around the track beside their camels.
6 F1 Grand Prix
Dates vary • www.yasmarinacircuit.
com
Golfing in front of the Dubai skyline Since 2009, Abu Dhabi has hosted a
race at the Yas Marina circuit.
Kite Surfing
9 7 UAE Football
Winter weekday nights • www.
Kite Beach: MAP C2; Jumeirah
Beach, Dubai • North Kites: 04 394 proleague.ae
1258, www.northkites.com The choreographed dances and songs
Join the local kite surfers on Dubai’s by the fans are just as riveting as the
Kite Beach. You can hire or buy play on the field at this popular event.
equipment from North Kites, who 8 Powerboat Racing
will help connect you with instructors. Dec • www.f1h2o.com
Watch the lightweight catamarans
Horseriding
0 in action at this exciting race.
9 Dubai Marathon
Emirates Equestrian Centre:
MAP D3; 050 558 7656 • Abu Dhabi Runners from all around the world
Equestrian Club: Al Ain, 02 445 5500 compete on the city streets (see p39).
With its world-class equestrian 10 Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge
centre, Dubai is the Middle East’s Bikes, 4WDs and even trucks take part
undisputed horseriding capital. There in this international cross-country rally
is also a top equestrian centre in Abu through the desert (see p39).
Dhabi, which offers riding lessons.
044-045_Top_10_Dubai.indd 45 15/06/2017 14:54
46 ❯❯ The Top 10 of Everything
Restaurants
Mezlai
1 Hotel. Opt for the blind-tasting menu,
MAP N1 • Emirates Palace,
and choose between a seat in the
Dubai • 02 690 7999 • Open beautiful old-world dining room or
1–10:30pm • DDD on the terrace outside (see p101).
This innovative restaurant features
Qbara
authentic Emirati cuisine in a lavish 4
setting. Guests are given five-star MAP E2 • Wafi City (adjacent to
treatment and can choose from a Raffles Hotel), Dubai • 04 709 2500
selection of local dishes, including • Open 6pm–1am • DDD
fire-grilled seafood, Gulf-style There’s a distinct hint of Arabian
biryanis and creamy desserts. magic in this very chic restaurant,
with its intimate, dimly-lit interior
and star-like illuminations twinkling
overhead. Arabia dominates the
menu, too, with mouthwatering
mezze and inventive mains.
Anise
5
Modelled on the eight points
of the star anise, this charming
eatery offers eight cooking stations.
Diners can watch as the chefs
create their meal with flair and
passion. It also has a beautiful
terrace that boasts views over
The lavish dining room at Mezlai the Dubai Creek (see p63).
Eauzone
Buddha Bar
2 6
Located in the One&Only
A cavernous, dimly-lit
restaurant overseen by an enormous Royal Mirage (see p113), this is
Buddha, this is Dubai’s most spec- one of Dubai’s most romantic res-
tacular piece of culinary theatre. taurants. Visit after dark and dine
Food focuses on Pan-Asian cuisine, at tables in miniature Arabian tents
including an excellent selection of set between floodlit pools. The
Japanese dishes (see p87). food features top-quality Pan-Asian
cuisine including some traditional
Bord Eau
3 classics and delicious contemporary
fusion creations (see p87).
French fine dining is the
theme at this upmarket restaurant
housed in Abu Dhabi’s Shangri-La Eauzone, set beside a floodlit pool
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Two-column, 8.5pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v.1.9)
046-047_Top_10_Dubai.indd 46 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 24th June 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
Restaurants ❮❮ 47
TOP 10 MIDDLE EASTERN
RESTAURANTS
1 Tagine
An exquisitely decorated restaurant
serving fine Moroccan cuisine (see p87).
2 Arabian Tea House Café
Affordable Arabian fare is served in
a pretty courtyard garden (see p69).
3 Zahr el Laymoun
MAP B6 • Souk Al Bahar, Dubai • 04
448 6060 • Open 10am–midnight
• www.zahrellaymoun.com • DD
Enjoy good Lebanese cuisine at this
place overlooking the Dubai Fountain.
4 Shabestan
MAP L2 • Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai
Creek • 04 205 7333 • Open 12:30–
3:30pm & 7:30–11:30pm • DDD
A table setting at Indego by Vineet Expect quality Iranian cuisine and
creek views at this hotel restaurant.
Indego by Vineet
7 5 Awtar
Vineet Bhatia, India’s first
MAP E2 • Grand Hyatt Dubai, Dubai
Michelin-starred chef, showcases • 04 317 2222 • Open 7:30pm–3am
his unique talents at this stylish Sun–Fri • DDD
restaurant. It offers a mix of This place offers good Lebanese food
traditional Indian favourites along- with regular bellydancing performances.
side more unusual contemporary 6 Al Nafoorah
creations, blending European and Top-quality Lebanese cuisine is served
subcontinental influences (see p87). in a sedate setting (see p75).
7 Almaz by Momo
Hoi An
8 A Moroccan café owned by restaurateur
Mourad “Momo” Mazouz (see p81).
The spirit of colonial-era
French Indochina lives on at these 8 Bastakiah Nights
beautiful wood-panelled restaurants, A lovely courtyard restaurant in a
located in the Shangri-La Hotel in both beautiful old Al Fahidi mansion (see p19).
Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The menu offers 9 Atayeb
delicious and innovative Vietnamese– MAP W4 • Yas Viceroy, Abu Dhabi
• 02 656 0600 • Open 7pm–1am
French cuisine (see p75 & p101). Sun–Fri • DD
Rhodes Twenty10
9 Offers an iconic view. Dishes include
Emirati fare.
The brainchild of UK celebrity
chef Gary Rhodes, this unpretentious 10 Lebanese Flower
Abu Dhabi residents flock to this
and affordable restaurant serves up excellent Lebanese restaurant (see p95).
Rhodes’ signature reworkings of
traditional British classics alongside
a selection of more Middle Eastern-
influenced creations (see p87).
Pai Thai
0
Approached by abra (water
taxi), this waterfront restaurant offers
one of Dubai’s most romantic dining
experiences. The stunning setting
is perfectly complemented by the
fresh and authentic Thai food. Expect Arabian Tea House Café
crisply flavoured curries (see p81).
For a key to restaurant price ranges see p63
046-047_Top_10_Dubai.indd 47 17/05/2017 12:54
48 ❯❯ The Top 10 of Everything
Best Bars in Dubai
Vivid blue and green decor at the popular Skyview Bar
Skyview Bar
Bar 44
1 4
Prop yourself up at the
Jutting out from the top of the
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, this is one of swanky circular bar or sink into
Dubai’s ultimate places for a drink. a plush chair at this swish cocktail
Sweeping views up and down the coast bar on level 44 (hence the name)
are accompanied by a superior list of of the Grosvenor House hotel.
cocktails, wines and other drinks. It attracts a regular sophisticated
Advance booking is required (see p24). local set as well as visiting
businesspeople out to impress
The Rooftop
2 colleagues with spectacular
It is easy to fall in love with
views over Dubai Marina (see p86).
the magical look and feel of this
Up on the Tenth
atmospheric Moroccan-style rooftop 5
bar, with its Arabesque lanterns and MAP L2 • Radisson Blue,
Oriental lounge music (see p86). Bani Yas Rd, Dubai • 04 205 7033
• Open 6:30pm–3am
Hidden away in Deira’s Radisson
Blu hotel, Up on the Tenth is one
of the city’s better-kept secrets.
The bar itself is smart but
unremarkable, but the stunning
view over the creek is perhaps
the best in the whole of the old
city. Arrive early to bag a seat by
the window and then while away
the evening listening to the bar’s
nightly jazz performances.
Moroccan styling at the Rooftop Asia Asia
Vault
3 6
Embark on a journey from
At the top of the JW Marriott
Asia Minor through to the Far East
Marquis, Vault is another head-in-the- at this extravagant restaurant.
clouds bar with amazing views across The exciting menu takes inspiration
Dubai. Chic decor and cocktails from the ancient Spice Route
attract a monied crowd (see p74). (see p74).
Eyewitness Travel – Top 10 series LAYERS PRINTED:
Two-column, 8.5pt grid “UK” LAYER
(SourceReport v.1.9)
048-049_Top_10_Dubai.indd 48 17/05/2017 12:54
Date 24th June 2015
Size 100mm x 191mm
The words you are searching are inside this book. To get more targeted content, please make full-text search by clicking here.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have so much to offer, and you can experience it all, from unique shops, malls, and
souks to the finest restaurants and cafes. Luxuriate at the best golf courses, hotels, and spa resorts, or
embrace adventure on exciting desert excursions, at local sporting events, or at lively bars and clubs. In
addition to traditional historic palaces and mosques, Dubai and Abu Dhabi have amazing modern architecture,
and your Top 10 Travel Guide will be your partner in experiencing it all.
True to its name, DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi covers all the major sights and
attractions in easy-to-use “top 10” lists that help you plan the vacation that’s right for you.
Here are important features of this book:
- Itineraries help you plan your trip.
- Top 10 lists feature off-the-beaten-track ideas, along with standbys like the top attractions, shopping,
dining options, and more.
- Comprehensive laminated pull-out map includes color-coded design, public transportation maps, and street
indexes.
- Maps of walking routes show you the best ways to maximize your time.
- Additional maps marked with sights from the guidebook are shown on inside cover flaps, with selected
street index and metro map.
The perfect pocket-size travel companion: DK Eyewitness Travel Guide: Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
*Series Overview:* DK Eyewitness Travel Guide Top 10s are handy travel guides that take the work out of
planning a trip. Packed with amazing ideas, informative maps, insider tips, and useful advice, DK’s Top 10
guides lead you to the very best your destination has to offer. The pocket size make these the perfect guide
to take on vacation. Discover the history, art, architecture, and culture of your destination through Top 10
lists, from the best museums, bars, and sights to the places to avoid.
Discover the best professional documents and content resources in AnyFlip Document Base.
Search