United Arab Emirates Travel Guide

United Arab Emirates — Things to Do

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Golf

Dubai is a golfer's paradise, but even for non-players the golf clubs are worth a visit for the spectacular architecture of their clubhouses and the successful landscaping of the desert. The world-famous Majilis course at the Emirates Golf Club hosts the European PGA event, the Dubai Desert Classic, and its signature clubhouse is modeled to look like Bedouin tents. Visitors looking for a different golfing experience can arrange a game at the oldest course in the emirates, the Dubai Country Club, where golfers are given a piece of artificial turf to hit their shots from, as the whole course is sand. Or if the heat is too great golfers can even try some night golf under the floodlights at the Nad al Sheeba Club. As a year-round golfing destination, Dubai has the unique privilege of being the only place to host major international golf tournaments on both the European and Asian PGA circuits. The courses and facilities are first rate with all the comforts, including motorized golf carts, beverage carts, quality equipment and automated GPS yardage devices. Bookings can be made at www.dubaigolf.com

Desert Safaris

A visit to Dubai is almost always complemented by a trip to the desert where the spectacular terrain can be experienced as part of a group tour on a day or overnight safari. It is an opportunity to experience the true heart of Arabia and the terrain varies from rugged mountains to rolling sand dunes inhabited by camels and goats and dotted with the occasional village. Excursions may include camel rides, dune driving through the thick sand, sand skiing and wadi-bashing (exploring the dry river beds in a 4x4 vehicle), and many conclude with an Arabian-style barbecue in a traditional Bedouin tent complete with music and exotic belly dancers.

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.

Dubai Honeymoon and Wedding

Dubai is a beautiful city by the sea, a splendid honeymoon destination! It's romantic, sophisticated and multicultural, an intriguing destination for newly-weds to experience together. Set between the desert and the Gulf of Oman's stunning coast, this is a city where modern skyscrapers rise between ancient mosques and souks (markets), all waiting to be explored by honeymoon couples. Dubai Honeymoon Things To DoDubai offers newly-weds a wealth of luxurious, private honeymoon accommodation. The tallest hotel in the world, and shaped like a huge sail, the 7* Burj Al Arab resort is just as spectacular in its hosting of guests. Close on its heels, Jumeirah Beach Hotel looks like a breaking wave and boasts its own private beach. In a league of its own, Al Hamra Fort Hotel is located on a private island with desert safaris, archaeological sites and a natural lagoon for couples to enjoy. While on honeymoon in Dubai, couples will not run short of things to do. The city offers an amazing selection of shops and souks - the Gold Souk is a must! The clear blue waters off Dubai's immaculate beaches are perfect for scuba diving and sailing, while camel riding, dune buggy expeditions and safaris are popular in the nearby desert sands. Enjoy indoor skiing and snowboarding together at the Ski Dubai resort. For history lovers, the Dubai Creek is reminiscent of an ancient Arabian port, quite a romantic stop, and Al-Hosn Palace has incredible courtyards for couples to explore. Walking the historic Bastakiya district can also be a romantic outing. In Dubai, newly-weds can revel in luxurious comfort while experiencing the beautiful cultures and sites of a foreign land.