Dubai: Beyond the Skyline

When most of us think of Dubai, we think of glittering skyscrapers and peerless modern architecture...

Traditional dhow by Dubai Creek at sunset

In fact, enormous expense has been incurred making sure that this is exactly what we all associate the city with. But to focus on the skyline is to do the city as a whole something of a disservice. Those skyscrapers and shopping malls sit alongside historic souks and untamed desert sands - and it’s this juxtaposition and contrast that really defines modern Dubai, which is partly why the richest people in the world seek to live there.

So, how might we experience this? Let’s take a look.

Discover Dubai’s Culture and Heritage: The principal historic district in the city is the Al Fahidi Historic Neighbourhood, which can be found along the Dubai Creek. This part of the city is a maze of twisting alleyways, which speak of what life was like, prior to the coming together of the Emirates in the early seventies. Everything is overlooked by a sequence of traditional wind towers, built from sandstone and teak, which help to define the local skyline.

If you’re interested in this part of the city and how it came to evolve over the centuries, it’s worth paying a visit to one of the many museums and galleries in the area. You might also look at the local spice and gold souks, where you can do your shopping in the traditional Emirati style.

Coastal and Waterfront Experiences: The city also offers an extensive coastline, along which you’ll find countless opportunities for relaxation. There are long boardwalks along which you might stroll from cafe to cafe. Or, you can head out beyond Jumeirah Beach for a short tour on a yacht or a powerboat. For a true sense of luxury and a slightly different perspective on the city, you might consider a visit to the area around Dukes the Palm, which provides a perfect balance between urban verve and seaside tranquillity.

Adventure and Innovation in Dubai: The city is constantly coming up with new and impressive ways to showcase its natural assets and its amazing architecture. Given the speed of evolution, you might find that every successive visit creates new possibilities to explore. Whether you intend to go trekking through the dunes on the back of a camel or to enjoy a sweeping panorama from the summit of the Burj Khalifa, it’s worth booking your experiences in advance and enjoying the peace of mind that comes with knowing that your place is reserved.