Cruising in Dubai Capital of the country known as 'the Pearl of the Arabian Gulf', Dubai is fast becoming a popular cruise destination for anyone planning to travel the Gulf Coast by sea. A place where the sea and the desert meet, this luxurious cruise destination is leisurely, luxurious and offers some of the world's finest shopping.The Dubai Cruise Terminal of Port Rashid opened in 2001 and can accommodate two ships simultaneously as well as offering cruise passengers views into beautiful lush palm gardens, Arabian heritage and cultural exhibits, a café, coffee bar and free Internet
on five terminals in its business center. The port terminal also offers two free shopping shuttles departing on the hour to Mercato Mall and City Center Mall, Deira.Dubai cruise passengers can explore the historical district of al-Bastakia, take a boat trip up Dubai creek or to the artificial Palm Islands, and shop till they drop in the world's shopping Mecca. Passengers opting for a more relaxing stay in the city will enjoy basking on the exquisite beaches and soaking up the beauty of the cost and its resorts.Passengers wanting to spend a few extra days in Dubai before or after their cruise will have no problem finding accommodation. With some of the most elite and stunningly beautiful hotels in the world, it's no wonder why Dubai is such a popular cruise destination.
Nightlife
Known for its nightlife, Dubai's clubs and bars are found mostly in hotels because of the city's strict liquor laws. In 2008 the New York Times listed Dubai as its travel choice for partying. But in Dubai all nightclubs must close at 3am by law, the legal drinking age is 21 and you must be 25 to enter a nightclub. For this reason it is wise to carry some form of identification with you when checking out the local scene.Due to the strict liquor laws you will not find nightclubs and bars dotted along the streets, but rather inside this shopping Mecca's 4 and 5-star hotels. It is not uncommon to see foreigners and expatriates hanging around at hotel bars until last rounds have been called. However, there are areas outside of hotels that sell alcohol, such as the Irish Village next to the Aviation Club of Dubai. With a name like that, there's no guessing what type of debauchery goes on here at the main Irish style Pub. This is a favorite watering hole with tourists and non-Muslim residents. Nightclubs such as Cyclone, situated in Al Nasr leisure land Karama, are great for a bit of a dance and are known as 'pick-up joints' so anyone wanting nothing but a bit of fun should be prepared for a bit of flirting. Arabic nightclubs are popular with locals and tourists alike, Kasbaa Royal Mirage Hotel, being a firm favorite and one of the busiest by far. Built up on three levels and set to an Arabic soundtrack, played by some of the best DJs, the entire club is decorated with Arabic décor. A must when in Dubai!For an alcohol-free option, Dubai Creek Park is a popular place to spend an evening. The atmosphere at night is wonderful and very festive and the park is never crowded due its sheer size. It is worth noting that in Dubai homosexuality, drugs and the theory of revolution are considered taboo and visitors should remain respectful when in Dubai.
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