dubai travel guide delma tourism
DESCRIPTION
DubaiTRANSCRIPT
DUBAI OFFICE : 12, Baba Hassain Bldg, Rd # 33 B, Meena Bazar, Bur Dubai 242293, Dubai, UAE.
Phone : 00971 43596920
MUMBAI OFFICE : A/2, Himanshu Bldg, Sodawala Cross Lane, Borivali (West), Mumbai
Phone : 9122 28951173
Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is
rather like an independent city
the UAE, developing at an unbelievable pace, in the tourist and trade sectors espe
INSIGHTS OF DUBAI TRAVEL GUIDE:
Understanding Dubai……………
Divisions………………………………
Climate…………………………………
Get In Dubai by Plane……………
Get around in Dubai by Metro
Get around in Dubai by Car…
Get around in Dubai by Bus…
Get around in Dubai by Taxi…
Get around in Dubai by Boat…
See Old Dubai………………………
See Modern Dubai………………
What to Do? ………………………
Work in Dubai………………………
What to Buy? ………………………
Textiles…………………………………
Markets………………………………
Malls……………………………………
What to Eat? ………………………
Drinking………………………………
Stay Safe………………………………
Contact…………………………………
: 12, Baba Hassain Bldg, Rd # 33 B, Meena Bazar, Bur Dubai 242293, Dubai, UAE.
: 00971 43596920 ◊ Fax : 0097143596930 ◊ E Mail : [email protected]
Himanshu Bldg, Sodawala Cross Lane, Borivali (West), Mumbai
: 9122 28951173 ◊ Cell :919167400565 ◊ E Mail : [email protected]
DUBAI TRAVEL GUIDE
Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is
rather like an independent city-state and is the most modern and progressive emirate in
the UAE, developing at an unbelievable pace, in the tourist and trade sectors espe
INSIGHTS OF DUBAI TRAVEL GUIDE:
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Get around in Dubai by Metro………………………………………………………………………
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: 12, Baba Hassain Bldg, Rd # 33 B, Meena Bazar, Bur Dubai 242293, Dubai, UAE.
Himanshu Bldg, Sodawala Cross Lane, Borivali (West), Mumbai – 400092.
@delmatourism.com
Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is
state and is the most modern and progressive emirate in
the UAE, developing at an unbelievable pace, in the tourist and trade sectors especially.
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UNDERSTANDING DUBAI
Having the Largest immigrant population in the world, Dubai is one of the must-see
tourist destinations, a city full of superlatives: for the fastest, biggest, tallest, largest and
highest. Dubai is essentially a busy desert city in the Arabian Gulf with superb
infrastructure, liberal rules and regulations, that became world-wide renowned for it's
superb tourist amenities. Dubai remains crowded everytime - no matter what the
season is - due to it's plentiful and awesome attractions making a great short break for
shopping, partying, sunbathing, fine dining, sporting events, and even a few wicked
contentments.
Once you land in Dubai, you might not take the place as a Arab Country, rather, you
might think you are in India or the Philippines. Dubai, since the exploration of Oil
Industry, has attracted thousands of migrants from all over the world mainly India,
Pakistan, Bangladesh and the Philippines in search of jobs. Today, many Indians &
Filipinos have their influence in the emirate with their Restaurants and super markets
respectively.
The weekly day off in Dubai is on Friday. Note that, since September 2006, a harmonised
weekend of Friday and Saturday has been adopted for the public sectors and schools.
Government departments, multinational companies, and most schools and universities
are now off on Friday and Saturday (after years of a mixed bag of Friday/Saturday and
Thursday/Friday weekends). Some local companies still work half a day on Thursday
with a full day on Saturday, but larger companies tend to permit relaxation and time off
work for their employees on Friday and Saturday.
DIVISIONS OF DUBAI
Dubai is divided into the following districts and/or municipalities:
• Jumeirah: A diverse district whose residents are mainly Europeans, Pakistanis
and Filipinos who enjoy the ease of access of beach and beautiful villas. Jumeirah
Beach, Jumeirah Beach Residence's the Walk and Jumeirah Mosque are the top
attractions.
• Downtown Dubai: Traditionally Bur Dubai and Deira are considered as
'Downtown'. But, actually, the Downtown Dubai is hit in the centre of 'New
Dubai' between Dubai Marina on the south end and the border of Sharjah to the
north. It comprises of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain and
number of skyscrapers and hotels.
• Dubai Marina: Housing one of the highest concentrations of the Westerns in
Dubai, Dubai Marina borders Jebel Ali, world's largest man-made port. It
comprises full of skyscrapers hosting the 'Jumeirah beach Walk' with a number
of restaurants and open markets.
• Satwa: Also known as one of Dubai's Little India and Little Manila due to
presence of more of Indians and Filipinos in the area. Thus there is a
considerable rise in Indian and Filipino restaurants, shops and super markets.
Not so crowded, hassle free, Satwa can be your destination for it's Gold and
textiles shops.
• Karama: One of Dubai's Little Indias and Little Manilas, Karama is more of like a
combination of residential and commercial district. The disctrict is known for it's
cheaper rates of things and eatables.
• Bur Dubai: Is the historical area from Jumeirah to the Creek; the latter separating
it from Deira. Abras, Souk, Floating restaurants and the famous creek are the
major tourist attractions here.
• Deira: Was Dubai's old Financial Centre. Today, it is a lively commercial-
residential mixture with some old souks, including the one specialized in spices.
• Arabian Ranches & Emirates Hills: Just like whole of Dubai, these two places are
two separate man-made areas. Due to increasing land value, the residential
rents over here are expensive.
• Mirdif: Lying under the flight path of Dubai International Airport, Mirdif is a
commercial-resindetial district some what newly built. Mirdif City Centre,
another residence for the well-to-do is one of the main attractions of the district.
• International City: A simple residential area in the middle of the desert where
mostly Chinese businessmen and women reside here making it somewhat the
next Chinatown. The architectural designs are the area's speciality and the
residential rents here are comparatively cheaper.
CLIMATE
Dubai being a tropical desert, the climate here is hot most of the year. In summer, it is
hot and humid with tempaeratures averaging around 42 degrees in the day time and
around 28 degrees at night. Falls and Springs are less hot with daytime temperatures
between 25 & 40 degrees and nights around 20 degrees, with less humidity. Winter
weather is comparatively pleasant and dry with daytime temperature around 25
degrees and nights around 10 degrees.
Dubai is also known for it's beaches with temperatures around 37 degrees in summer,
20-25 degreed in winter and around 30 degrees during falls and springs.
Rainfall in Dubai from December to April is up to 10cm. Some months show no more
than few minutes of shower. However, November 2006, brought record rains upto 50
cm and tempaeratures at record lows.
GET IN DUBAI BY PLANE
You can enter Dubai via either it's main airport - Dubai International Airport or using
Sharjah International Airport in Sharjah or even using the Abu Dhabi International
Airport in Abu Dhabi. Dubai International Airport is the largest having 3 terminals as of
now.
• Terminal 1 is the main terminal used by major airlines.
• Terminal 2 serves regional and low-cost flights.
• And Terminal 3 is exclusively used by the Emirates.
Shuttle buses between the three terminals run every 20-30 minutes. Terminals 1 and 3
are also served by the Dubai Metro for public transport.
Frequent visitors can also purchase an E-gate pass from the E-gate office of Dubai
International Airport situated in the upstairs food court area of the Terminal 1
departures concourse.This card/pass will cost you AED 200 but will help you speed up
the immigration formalities and save passport pages.
GET AROUND IN DUBAI BY METRO
Especially after the launch of Metro in Dubai, it's public transport system has become
the best in the Middle East with a 52km long Red Line (opened in September 2009) and
the Green Line (opened in September 2011). The Red Line (Third metro in the Arab)
covers 21 stations including stops at the Airport, Burj Khalifa and the Mall of Emirates;
while the Green Line burrows through the core of the City. Single Tickets range from
Dh2 - 8.50, or double that for Gold first class ticket. Trains run every 3-5 minutes from
5:50 a.m. to Midnight every day except on Thurdays and Fridays, where the timings
extend to 5:50 a.m. to 1:00 a.m and limited to 1:00 p.m to Midnight. All Metro Stattions
in Dubai are air-conditioned and with a large network of feeder buses.
There are also Blue and Purple Lines under construction which would open soon in the
next few years.
In addition, there is also a 5km monorail system not connected to the Metro, but
shuttles passengers across the Palm Jumeirah to the Atlantis Hotel.
GET AROUND IN DUBAI BY CAR
Requiring no International Driving Permit necessarily in Dubai, you can always look for
cars on rent here, which will provide you a mode of transportation for very cheap rates
and little paper work. Also, Some agencies out there will hire out cars complete with
drivers, if needed. Visitors taking advantage of this, will need to confirm that their driver
knows his way around precisely.
When driving on Main roads of the City, the junction numbers can be a little confusing
as they are not in logical order. For e.g. Junction 13 on the Sheikh Zayed Road is just
after Junction 18. Road names and the construction work throughout and around Dubai
can make finding your destination a challenge too. You should be very well off with a
printed map which you can find in the stores around in Dubai, which will help you at it's
best.
With a huge mixture of nationalities residing in Dubai, the traffic slows to even a stand-
still during the morning and afternoon peak hours. There is also a scarcity of parking
spaces in many parts.
There is zero tolerance for alcohol and driving with stiff penalties meted out including
jail and deportation.
GET AROUND IN DUBAI BY BUS
Dubai Public Buses are very clean and cheap but unfortunately not very comprehensive
and (on some routes) quite infrequent. A Map of the bus system of Dubai can be found
online (click here to view it) along with detailed route maps and time-tables. The Bus
system is very useful for getting between areas of Central Dubai or various suburbs.
You will need a Nol card or ticket for fare payment. Cards could be purchased from most
bus stations, metro stations, and sometimes from the bus driver.
The main bus stations are Gold Souq Market (in Deira) and Al Ghubaiba bus station (in
Bur Dubai). The flat fare is 2 AED, but might be higher for hour-long rides to distant
suburbs.
GET AROUND IN DUBAI BY TAXI
You can see number of taxis on roads in Dubai and can find one for yourself easily at the
taxi queues at one of the malls or outside of hotels. At peak times, demand for these
taxis sometimes exceed far supply and not only the taxis are hard to find then, but also
those who agree to travel with you may demand for crazy off-meter rates.
Taxi drivers in Dubai are pretty good in driving and at knowing where the main malls and
hotels are. But, it is always better that you have atleast a rough idea of where you are
heading at and/or the relative lankdmarks.
The rates of all taxi companies in Dubai being identical, they are locally metered at 1.75
dhs/km. Beware of unmarked hotel taxis and limousines though: while some of these
are metered, they are not tied to the official rates, and can be much more expensive.
If you can't find one otherwise, you can attempt to call a taxi at 04-2080808, there's a
surcharge of 3 dhs to book. On a good day it can be possible to book a taxi and have it
arrive within less than five minutes. If you surely have to get somewhere at a specific
time, it's best to book a hotel taxi in advance, and get their estimate on the traffic
conditions as well.
Women should travel in the back of the taxi as some drivers see it as a sexual invitation
if you get in the front.
GET AROUND IN DUBAI BY BOAT
An easier way of crossing through the Dubai Creek is Abra, a small ferry which has stops
located along the Creek on both the Bur Dubai as well as the Deira Sides. The cross-river
trip shall cost you 1 Dirham (per passenger) and the service is available round the clock.
Not to be missed, the very picturesque view of the city, particularly if the driver is able
to enliven the tour with stories of the structures on either side of the Creek.
Abras can also be hired for a private tour for a negotiable price and can enhance the
popular activity at sunset on a clear day. Just make sure that the purpose of one's abra
hire is made clear at the outset--otherwise you will be in for a very expensive cross-river
trip or a crowded private tour.
Another great option and a part of Dubai's public transport system is the Water Bus
which makes you avoid the Abra crowd and the heat as well. A Red ticket or any Nol
card is required for the journey which can be purchased at the waterbus station. The
Waterbus can get quite expensive around Dh50 per adult and Dh25 per child, though.
The Creek also houses many boats (often designed to resemble Dhows) offering
relatively more expensive and comfortable tours. Prices are more higher for dinner
cruises with on-board entertainment.
SEE OLD DUBAI
• Al Ahmadiyah School, Diera: This was the Dubai's first ever built school (in 1912)
which is nicely maitained today even though the tourists make a Free Entry.
• Al Bastakiya: One of the last historic remaining pockets in Dubai, named after the
Bastak region of Iran, from where many Itanies residents had emigrated to
Dubai. The unique Architecture of Al Bastakiya is what makes it a must-see site.
• Dubai Museum: This is the main museum in the City located in the Al Fahidi Fort
with the aim of presenting the traditional way of Life in the Emirate of Dubai. It
includes local antiquities, Artifacts from African & Asian countries that traded
with Dubai and several dioramas showing life in the emirate before the advent of
Oil.
• Jumeirah Mosque: Driving through the Dubai Creek, you stop at the amazing
Jumeirah Mosque, an Islamic architecture built in 1979. The mosque is one of
the most frequently visited and photographed sight. Nearby to the Mosque is
the Jumeirah Public Beach, where you can have some R and R.
• Shindagha District: Home to the open museums of the Heritage Village, and has
the home of former Sheikh Rashid Al-Maktoum.
• Souks: There are a number of nice souks, or markets, on both sides of the creek
that are worth exploring. They sell everything from spices to crafts to very
inexpensive tourist t-shirts.
SEE MODERN DUBAI
• Burj Khalifa: Also known as Burj Dubai, is the tallest man-made structure in the
world, at 829.8m (2722 ft.). It is a masterpiece and world-class destination of
Downtown Dubai. Make your Dream come true by touring Burj Khalifa starting
from the lower ground of the Dubai Mall, one of the most happening places in
Dubai with world's largest aquarium with huge variety of fishes and elevating up
to the 124th Floor (The Observation Deck / At the Top) and feel the 'Being on
Top of the World'.
• The Dubai Fountain: It is the World's Largest dancing water fountain with a very
tempting (must-see) display. The fountain's total length is around 900 ft. and
water from it shoots up to 500ft making the show a massive attraction. The show
starts every evening at the Burj Dubai Lake from 6:00 p.m to 10:00 p.m. with
classical, Arabic and world music playing in the background.
• Burj Al Arab Hotel: Referred to as 'The World's only Seven-Star Hotel', Burj Al
Arab is the Dubai's most famous Hotel built inside the sea to a height of 321
meters (1053 feet) in Dubai. Entry to the hotel requires an advance reservation
and the dress code applied is 'very smart casual dress'
• Dubai Marina: One of the newer and more popular areas of Modern Dubai, both
with residents and tourists, Dubai marina offers numerous features such as a
phenomenal skyline, world class hotels, a fabulous beach, a mall, and 2 different
walkways (The Walk and Marina Walk) with coffee shops, restaurants, and
shops.
• Palm Islands: These are the Three largest artificial islands in the world located
just off the coast of Dubai, each one shaped like a palm leaf with a trunk
connected to the mainland. Of the Three, the Palm Jumeirah is the only yet open
island with spoting marinas, luxury resorts and upscale shopping areas.
WHAT TO DO IN DUBAI?
• Beaches and Seas: There are endless water-sport activities in Dubai, since it has
some of the whitiest and sandiest beaches in the world. One can even make the
90 minute road journey to the East coast Emirate of Fujairah or the Sharjah
enclave, Khor Fakkan, for top class diving on coral reefs supported by extensive
marine life.
• Natural Outdoors: Although Dubai has dangerous desert conditiong, there are
actually amazing natural destinations like pristine waterfalls, cliffs lined with
fossils and even fresh water lakes in the Emirate of Dubai extending into the
Hatta.
• Al Safa Park: The oldest park in Dubai. Many visitors enjoy playing tennis,
volleyball, and soccer here. Children love playing games in the video arcade, or
riding the ferris wheel and bumper cars. The park even has a maze to wander
through. Barbeques and picnic areas are available for those who want to make a
day of it.
• Camel Racing: The Camel Race Track is one of the more unusual attractions in
Dubai, with races being held on every Thursday and Friday in the winter. Not
only can you watch the races, but you'll have the opportunity to visit the
paddocks.
• Desert Safari or Dune Bashing: The experience of Best Desert Safari in Dubai is
what you cannot miss. It is very mystical to view the glowing golden sands in the
desert hit by the Sunshine. And the enjoyment of the roller coaster ride of your
life on the Dubai desert dunes is magnificent. The expert driver will take you to
dunes ( sand hills ) in a powerful SUV.
• Ski: Located in the new Mall of Emirated, Dubai has it's own skiing and snow-
boaring centre. A 2 hour pass will cost you around Dhs180 plus Dhs20 for a
locker if needed.
• Wild Wadi Park: Being the world's most advanced Water themed Park, Wild
Wadi is the perfect place for the entire family to spend a day as well as being a
great way to beat the heat and enjoy the day away from the bustle of the city.
Located close to the hotels and resorts of Jumeriah Beach as well as Burj Al Arab,
the park has water rides, slides, and a lagoon that's hidden away. You'll enjoy
waterfalls, out of the way swimming holes, and a tidal pool.
• Dubai Creek/Cruise Trip: Enjoy the scenic beauty of the saltwater creek also
known as Khor Dubai. Embark on a trip along the Dubai creek in the Abra (water
taxi) or rent a private boat with dinner and walk through the Spice and Gold
Souk.
• Golf: Dubai, being a desert, spends a lot of money as well as water on irrigation
and maintenance of golf courses. You can try for a more local golf play i.e. Sand
Golf.
• Hot Air Balloon: This trip makes you feel great fun and pleasure while seeing all
the Sand Dunes and mountains on all sides of your Hot Air Balloon. Morning
and/or Sunset tours are more recommended and happening.
• Global Village: Countries from all over the world gather to set up a small Village
(known as Global Village) in the outskirts of Dubai usually in the Winter from
Late November to Late February, where each region has it's own replica of their
famous landmarks. This is just like a flea market then where you can get
souvenirs from almost each corner of the world for a bargained price. You feel as
if you are actually in that certain country for atleast 10 minutes of your life, even
if you know you are miles away from the country. You would see the
hieroglyphics of Egypt, temples of Thailand, Forbidden city of Beijing, the Eiffel
tower and many more. There is an Entry Fee of 5AED to experience the real
'Global Village'.
WORK IN DUBAI?
While Dubai tries to promote itself as the business and entertainment capital of the
world, the government has a complex and at times frustrating work permit procedure
that one should not attempt on their own unless they have prior experience. Therefore,
it is best to go through official channels when looking for work in Dubai as spot
inspections are frequent and if found working illegally, both the employee and the
employer will be subject to fines and even departation. All the necessary forms and
documents are written and processed in Arabic and is best left to a professional or a
"P.R.O" to handle your paperwork. There are rules about changing jobs and its
frequency too. With the price of rentals ever soaring in Dubai and neighbouring
Emirates, it is a good idea to discuss a housing allowance when negotiating a pay
package.
Despite all this, there are a few upsides, Dubai companies are generous with holidays
averaging almost 39 days a year of paid vacation (including public holidays), a round trip
ticket home once a year (depending on your contract) and most importantly all your
earnings are 100% tax free.
Recruitment fraud is quite pervasive in this part of the world. Read your employment
contract carefully before signing and do not pay any fees to recruitment agencies, as
they are usually paid by the companies. Your passport is your personal property and
cannot be withheld by the employer unless you are in a position of trust or are handling
large sums of money.
WHAT TO BUY IN DUBAI?
Dubai is a famous shopping hub with huge amounts of Cargo passing through it port.
Low tarffs ensure that practically, anything is available at fairly competitive rates,
counting on the appreciation of Dirham though.
The best stuff you get to buy in Dubai is textiles, electronics and gold. Electronics is
believed to be much cheaper while textiles and gold offer a variety of selection. Shops in
the Malls specially, are open from as early as 9:00 a..m to late till 10 p.m on weekdays.
On weekends, they remain open till 12:00 a.m and sometime even 1:00 a.m adding
scope to the night-life lovers on the way.
Remember to Bargain in the Souks since discounts are almost always available. Prices in
the Mall and other shops tend not to be hagglable though.
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) has been the region's largest and longest shopping and
enterainment extravanganza starting in January and ending in February. DSF has had
around 35 million visitors since 1996, who have spent close to Dh74 billion in shopping
malls, airlines, hotels and entertainment outlets during the festival. During Dubai
Shopping Festival, almost all shops offer deep discounts on their merchandise, daily car
raffles are drawn, and fireworks light Dubai’s night sky. Tourists from all around the
world are lured not only for Dubai's tax free shopping, but also for all of the events that
take place during the festival. There's also a very similar Dubai Summer Surprises trying
to pull in punters during the summer low season.
TEXTILES
SATWA - This is a small community much resembling a town, its streets are rowed by
textile shops notably opposite the Satwa Mosque ending to the opposite of Satwa clinic.
Most of the people flock to Satwa for their textiles, you might sometimes catch offers
and discounts but if you don't do so try bargaining the price, this is what most locals do,
even if you're a tourist convince the salesman to give you a discount, bargain till you get
the lowest price available. Not only is Satwa a hub for textile shops; some tailoring
shops on the corners are also found if you want a dress made as soon as possible after
purchasing the raw materials. Raw silk might also be available in some shops. Because of
the row of textile shops, it might be Dubai's version of Little India and Little Manila as
many Indians reside in this district as well as Filipinos.
MARKETS
• Gold Souk: A historic market since the origin of Dubai, located at the mouth of
Dubai Creek, Gold Souk dazzles people by selling gold in large quantities which
are of 22ct quality, expensive and detailed craftmanship. he gold items are sold
by weight with a "making charge" added on top to cover the workmanship. It
pays therefore, to go shopping armed with the current gold price and a
knowledge of the making charges in order to hone the bargaining process. Many
outlets are part of chains that also have branches in malls, so are generally
reliable.
• Spice Souk: Not so far from Gold Souk, Spice Souk as the name reveals is famous
for it's variety of spices, but has sadly declined a bit in recent years as
supermarkets take over the spice trade. If you're actually shopping for spices,
odds are you'll get better prices and quality with much less hassle at Carrefour.
Both the Spice Souk and the Gold Souq are a rather hot and sweaty experience
with limited air-conditioning, so wear appropriately cool, loose clothing if visiting
in mid summer. Individual shops are air conditioned. Although regularly visited
by tourists, none of the souks are considered a tourist area and as such modest
dress should be worn to avoid causing offence or attracting unwanted attention.
MALLS
• The Dubai Mall: Sun-Wed: 10:00-20:00, Thu-Sat: 10:00-00:00. Dubai Mall is not
only the Dubai's Largest Mall but also the World's Largest Mall, which was
opened in November 2008. It has over 1200 shops of brand names from all over
the world. Contains an indoor ice rink and indoor aquarium. It is right next door
to the Burj Khalifah, the world's tallest building, and the visitors' entrance to the
Burj Khalifah is located at the lower ground floor of the Mall.
• Mercato (Jumeirah Beach Rd): Mercato, which is Italian for Market, is the only
Renaissance-themed shopping mall in the Middle East. It captures Italian, French
and Spanish flavors and artistic characteristics playing host to regular fairs and
festivals from each country. Mercato provides a unique shopping experience, the
best in international entertainment and popular brand names like Virgin
Megastore, Top Shop, Mango and Hugo Boss; Mercato is simply The Good Life.
Also, Mercato houses a big Spinneys Supermarket, a 7 screen Grand Cinema, a
Starbucks, and mouth watering restaurants such as Bella Donna who have a
balcony overlooking the sea that cannot be missed.
• Town Centre Jumeirah (Jumeirah Beach Rd):. With a bright, open, and spacious
atmosphere, Town Centre Jumeirah is a place to shop, relax and casually dine at
a wide selection of eateries like Sumo Sushi, Cafe Ceramique, La Cafette by Carpe
Diem and Simply Healthy. The centre also houses an extensive range of ladies'
beauty outlets like the Nail Station, Paris Gallery, Kaya Skin Care Clinic, Wax
Lounge and SOS Salon.
• Mall of the Emirates (near 4th interchange on Sheikh Zayed Road Outside
Ramadan): Sun-Wed 10AM-10:00PM; Thu-Sat 10AM-12PM (midnight);
Ramadan: Sun-Sat: 10AM-1AM. It was largest shopping mall outside of North
America, until the Dubai Mall opened in 2008. 200+ shops, cinemas, plus the Ski
Centre. Has many international high street chains as well as luxury brand stores,
including Harvey Nichols. Many restaurants and cafes, though cafes tend to be
much more crowded than at other malls. It's attached to a Kempinski hotel,
which has restaurants licensed to serve alcohol that are accessible from the mall.
Very large Carrefour hypermarket attached, next to the Kempinski Hotel.
Arabian/Middle Eastern souvenir shops upstairs.
• Ibn Battuta Mall (Jebel Ali): Daily 10AM-12AM (midnight). Areas themed around
six countries (China, India, Persia, Egypt, Tunisia and the Andalusia). Wide range
of shops, although fewer high class brands. Has various restaurants and cafes
(including three Starbucks), and a multiplex cinema including an Imax. No
restaurants serve alcohol. Also has extensive, permanent exhibition of Islamic
science, invention and astronomy. Attached (access via outside) is one of Dubai's
few second-hand bookshops, House of Prose. Has a Geant supermarket
attached.
• Souk Madinat Jumeirah (Jumeirah Road): Includes 75 shops, numerous bars,
restaurants and cafes, a nightclub, theatre. More expensive and targeted directly
at tourists than other, general malls where residents go. Most bars and
restaurants are licensed for alcohol. Nice to wander through as it has been
designed to resemble a "traditional" souq, but with the modern comforts of air
conditioning. Lots of souvenir-type shops.
• Burjuman Centre (Khalifa Bin Zayed Road) Sat-Thu 10AM-10:00PM; Fri 2PM-
10PM. Recently opened after expansion, focus is on premium brand stores and
luxury boutiques, but high street stores are also available. No restaurants serve
alcohol. Walking distance to the Consulate District.
• Deira City Centre: This is by far the most popular mall in Dubai and a visit to
Dubai is not complete without a visit. Debenhams, Virgin Megastore, Zara and
other international high street brands. A multiplex cinema, and many restaurants
and cafes. Also has a large "Arabian Treasures" souvenir and traditional textiles
area. A new extension includes many more high-end boutiques and upmarket
mall restaurants. A big Carrefour hypermarket sell just about everything and is
nearly always very busy. There is a Sofitel hotel at one end of the centre, where
there are bars and restaurants serving alcohol.
• Wafi Mall: Includes Marks & Spencer, Goodies. Focus is almost entirely on luxury
brands, jewellery and expensive boutiques. Many upmarket restaurants and
bars, many of which are licensed (have alcohol available). A luxury spa is
attached to the complex. The Egypt-themed architecture, which includes quite
beautiful stained-glass pyramids, is worth seeing.
• Emirates Towers Boulevard (Sheikh Zayed Road): Daily 10.00AM-10.00PM, Fri
4.00PM-10.00PM. Part of the Emirates Tower Hotel complex. The shops here
match the hotel, very high class, plus a Starbucks. Lipton cafe has free wifi.
Restaurants and bars all serve alcohol. Quite a popular nightlife spot, with bars
and nightclubs and it is considered the most expensive mall in Dubai.
• Gold & Diamond Park (Interchange 4, Sheikh Zayed Road - South side): Sells gold
and diamond products. Has none of the character of the more historic gold souq,
but is air-conditioned throughout, and easier to reach and park at than the
historic souq (which is in the depths of downtown Deira). Can be better value, as
it is less "touristy".
• Al Ain Plaza (known locally as Computer Plaza): On Mankhool Road along from
the Ramada Hotel, Bur Dubai heading towards the creek. A mall specializing in
computers, laptops, computer parts and computer add ons like monitors, VoIP
Phones, hard drives, etc. Prices aren't particularly low, even after haggling, and
choices are limited (for example very few shops sell AMD hardware). There is an
internet cafe here. AED 10 per hour (minimum 1 hour). Also other malls in this
area are good for computers and computer equipment.
• Festival City: Has Dubai's only Ikea, since it relocated from City Centre, and a
huge Plug-Ins electronic store. Also an ACE Hardware and a amazing mall which
has 550 shops.
• Dubai Outlet Mall (on the road to Al Ain): A very large mall, with many "factory
outlets".
• Dubai Marina Mall (located on Sheikh Zayed Rd): A mall with Books and
Stationery (Borders), mobile telephony (du), photography (Nikon), cards
(Hallmark), children toys, nutrition, pharmacy (Boots), supermarket (Waitrose),
luxury watches, clothing, Starbucks, Dubai souvenirs, etc.
WHAT TO EAT?
Dubai is famous for it's Shawarma. Shawarma is most available food item on almost all
streets in Dubai and is cheap too. It is the Arabic equivalent of the Burger. It costs about
AED 5 for either the plain-jane variety or the more exotic Lebanese and Iranian varities.
The Shawarma sold by Indian restaurants are arguably the cheapest.
Another local snacks is Fala-Fil (Felafel, Falafel) also available at about the same costs as
the shawarma.
Most of the American fast food chains have set up shops in Dubai, including KFC, Chillis,
TGI Fridays, Starbucks, and McDonalds. The beauty of the food in Dubai is that you will
probably find cuisine for every taste.
For Indians (and vegetarians), Dubai has a big selection of budget Indian vegetarian
food. Dosa, vada, idlee, samosa, chapaati/roti, with generous servings of sabji (cooked
vegetable stew) are available at throwaway prices, typically less than 10Dhs per course.
The more expensive stuff costs upto USD 5.00. Bur Dubai (particularly Meena Bazaar
area) and Karama are the places that abound in these restaurants. Most of them are
open from 7AM till 10PM or 11PM throughout the week.
DRINKING
Today, Dubai is one of the most 'full of life' cities and so is the night life vista. Almost all
3 to 5 Star Hotels have bars and clubs for those who are interested in enjoying the night
life in Dubai. World-class Djs and numerous renowned musical celebrities add to the list
of tour dates as well.
However, Dubai has some strict rules and laws regarding alcohol consumption which
tourists should be aware of in Dubai:
• Buy alcohol only from licensed premises which are usually a part of the hotels in
Dubai.
• Alcohol is not sold on the religious holidays nor in the day time during Ramadan.
• It is illegal to have alcohol in public places and also zero-tolerance policy on
drunk driving. Anyone found, may usually get a month's sentenced jail as well as
a fine.
• For alcohol consumption at homes, you can buy them only from certain outlets
in Dubai, and an alcohol license is required.
• You need to have some sort of identification card to enter a bar; especially if you
are young.
Alcohol consumption for health is not good and so should be avoided firstly.
STAY SAFE
Dubai strictly follows Islamic laws and so should be respected by travellers there. Do not
publicly criticize or distribute any materials against it. Eating in public places is not
alowed during Ramadan and so the travellers should have their meals in their Hotels
and/or residences.
Do not criticize the ruling families of any of the seven Emirates or renowned business
families in Dubai. Be careful of all your belongings especially cash; Many cases have
been heard in Dubai where people have been robbed of large amounts of Cash in
crowded places.
Public displays of affection or cross-dressing may lead to jail time and/or deportation
should be avoided completely in public to ensure that no problems arise. Women
should dress sensibly and avoid wearing revealing outfits when in busy areas. This is
especially true when traveling to districts like Karama, Deira and Bur-Dubai,where the
streets are packed with men, especially on evenings and weekends.
Drug use and distribution are serious criminal offences, even when in the company of
the person consuming the material, and can lead to a prison sentence of several years
or even to be in front of the firing squad.
Do not jaywalk or cross where there are no clear pedestrian markings. Speeding is
common here, and the odds of you being knocked over are quite high unless you follow
the rules. Avoid driving on the extreme left lane of highways to avoid being "flashed"
and being forced to move a lane over.
Rude hand gestures (the "finger", etc.) and profanity can lead to fines and jail times if
reported, so keep your cool if you are cut off or are behind an erratic driver.
Use a degree of common sense of what is right and wrong to help you stay out of
trouble.
CONTACT
The international code for UAE is +971, for Dubai, add a 4 afterwards for land lines.Local
mobile phone numbers will start +971 50 xxx yyyy or +971 56 xxx yyyy for the GSM
provider etisalat. Those with GSM phones can expect auto roaming from their home
countries. As roaming fees are quite high and incoming calls are also charged, consider
to buy a local prepaid GSM SIM card, designed especially for tourists, from one of the
two cellular providers of the U.A.E - Etisalat & Du. Even Phone booths are located on
most streets in Dubai. Phone cards can be purchased from hotels and tourist shops.
Internet cafйs can be hard to find. The usual rate per hour is 3-4 AED. There are a
number of cafйs on Al Musalla Rd./Al Mankhool Rd. in Bur Dubai, including one at 38 Al
Musalla Rd. and one at Computer Plaza next to the Ramada Hotel. A number of Internet
cafes are found in Satwa too. Surprisingly, the malls do not have internet cafйs, but
most have wi-fi, mostly free. Most hotel business centres are equipped with internet
cafйs, but are expensive ones.