Top Ten Must Visit Places in Dubai

By: Minakhee Mishra

Though Dubai is in the Arabian Peninsular and one of the 7 emirates of the UAE, it is a global hub, with a cosmopolitan culture. It is a miniature urban globe, housing only the best of the world, all shrunk into the desert retreat called Dubai. Opulence and extravagance are the second name of this Oil rich emirate. Being the largest Gold traders of the Gulf region, Dubai is rightly called as the City of Gold. With the myriad choices, Dubai offers on every individual’s platter, one is spoilt for choices . The Dubai experience conjures up these magical treats- opulent theme malls with duty free shopping,a true shoppers paradise; modern architectural splendors with iconic designs; premium events; art hub ; buzzing ports; tranquil beaches and creek; expansive green zones and parks;multi-cuisine restaurants; sport and adventure activities; conspicuous skyline reflecting the pulse of the city- the list is endless. It is a city that truly entices and enthralls. Here is a glimpse of the best 10 hot spots in Dubai. The list has been compiled to include something for everyone’s taste. Some of the places compiled in this list though not based in Dubai. These exhilarating places are just a stone throw away from Dubai and hence a visitor coming into Dubai cannot afford to miss them.

1. Malls of Dubai
   
   Many malls in Dubai are a must visit place both from the shoppers point of view as well as a sightseer’s.
   
   Ibn Battuta mall(designed to commemorate the travel experiences of Arabic traveler, Ibn Battuta)
   
   Mercato Mall (designed to celebrate the extravagance of the Tuscan and Venetian architecture and lifestyle reflecting the beauty of the Renaissance )
   
   Dubai Mall - A visit to Dubai Mall provides a complete experience in terms of entertainment, food,leisure and shopping.It is the world’s biggest mall with 1200 retail shops, ice rink, multiplexes, food courts and restaurant, the colossal candy shop- candilucious, theme parks for both adults and children, worlds tallest musical fountain, fashion catwalk, 70 stores dedicated solely to haute couture,worlds largest Waterfront Atrium, aquarium, world’s largest Gold Souk; Fashion Island, Galeries Lafayette department store and Oasis Fountain Waterfall.
   
   Wafi Mall - Wafi city has both mall and hotel of the same name. The mall is inspired by the Egyptian architecture and resonates the culture of the great Egyptian civilization. The light and sound shows of this mall is something that a visitor cannot afford to miss.
   
   
   
   Wafi City
   
   
   
2. Desert Safari
   
   If adventure and thrill is what you crave for, set out on a sturdy off-road vehicle for the joy ride of your life and penetrate the mysterious and sultry desert. There are many tours offering Desert Safari on their itinerary, with experts on the wheels taking you on a natural thrilling ride-dune bashing. Camp out individually or book a camp as part of the safari to relish the desert and its culture under a star studded sky, as the non-stop entertainment ( Tanaura dancers, belly dancers, Mehendi artists,camel ride, dune bashing on bikes, Faconery ) and Arabic cuisine spin their web of charm.
   
   
3. Palm Jumeriah
   
   To witness the marvel of the product of the land reclamation visit the Palm Jumeriah. These three man-made islands,which are shaped like a palm tree, are so copious that they are visible from space to the naked eye.Because of the magnificent view it offers, it is the hot spot for skydivers. These islands have lavish residential apartments and villa’s and even the majestic Atlantis hotel.
   
   
4. Amusement parks
   
   Dubai is dotted with many amusement and theme parks that appeal to both adults and children alike. There are many indoor theme parks and hence the sultry during the summer months to does not affect the fun quotient.Kidzania (Dubai Mall), Wild wadi, Sega world( Dubai Mall), Ski Dubai (Mall of Emirates), Aquaventrue, Children city (creek park) are some of the amusement and theme parks in Dubai. Ferrari world, in Abu Dhabi, supposed to be the largest indoor theme park built, provides exhilarating thrill and distinctive experience for the entire family. Inspired by the Italian brand, Ferrari, this themed park also houses the worlds fastest roller coaster ride among other excitements.
   
   
5. Atlantis Hotel
   
   Though Dubai has many affordable luxury hotels, the Atlantis is a must visit place. This grand Hotel is housed in the revolutionary island of The Palm Dubai. This lavish5 star- resort is based on the theme of the myth of the lost kingdom of Atlantis. Each element of the structure is a true architectural spectacle.Among the myriad of attractions for the adults and kids are is the Aquaventure waterpark, the Dolhin Bay, ambassador Lagoon and the Lost Chambers.
   
   
   
   Atlantis
   
   
   
6. Burj Khalifa
   
   For a stunning view of the city glittering in the night, visit the worlds tallest tower measuring over 828 meters. Its architecture marvel is truly breathtaking. It houses many residential apartments , an observation deck on the 124th floor with optical telescopes and multimedia presentation, commercial spaces and even the esteemed Armani hotel.
   
   
7. Parks/Miracle Garden
   
   The Miracle Garden is a true miracle in the desert- an oasis with the world's largest collection of natural flowers. There are many parks and beach parks like Creek Park, Jabeel park and Mamzar park adding to the tranquil beauty of Dubai and raising the green quotient in the city.
   
   
   
   Miracle Garden Dubai
   
   
   
8. Beaches
   
   Dazzling white sand beaches with radiant, serene and clear waters, like the Jumeirah Beach are to be relished early in the morning or during sunset.With the Burj Al Arab providing a scenic backdrop and the fresh, unsullied breeze you are promised a tranquil, restorative experience.
   
   
9. Creek
   
   A visit to Dubai is incomplete without a brisk walk by the picturesque Creek or a ride on the Dowh cruise or Abra.
   
   
10. Gold souk and Global Village
    
    If you wish to be dazzled by the glitter and sheer opulence of the array of gold ornaments and their design the Gold Souk is the place to be.
    
    The global village is a global market having stall of almost 36 countries. The Global villages is spread on an expansive area The ambience, the opportunity to shop products of different countries, taste their cuisine and have a piece of their culture is an unique experience for anyone visiting Dubai.
    
    
    
    At Thailand stall in Global Village