Overview of Dubai
Dubai is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), famous for its modern development, impressive architecture, and strong economy. With an area of 4,000 km2, second only to Abu Dhabi, Dubai is the emirate with the largest population.
Dubai is a modern city with unique architectural works such as Burj Khalifa (the tallest building in the world), Dubai Mall and luxurious beaches. Dubai is also famous for its luxury resorts and water sports. It is one of the most attractive cities in the world for tourists, offering luxurious and unique experiences.
Transportation and travel
To get to Dubai the fastest, visitors can choose flights to Dubai International Airport (DXB). In some cities, there are no direct flights to Dubai, so visitors will have to transit in other cities.
Dubai has a very developed and diverse public transportation system, so you don't have to worry about how to move around this luxurious city. Heyotrip suggests transportation options to help you choose easily.
Taxi: Taxis are a popular means of transportation in Dubai, with easily recognizable yellow cars. You can call a taxi via the app or catch one at the pick-up points.
Dubai Metro: The metro system is very modern and convenient. Dubai Metro has stations along the city, making it easy for you to move around.
Bus: Ticket prices are calculated by trip, about 1.5 USD/person, the vehicles are comfortable and modern but the waiting time is long, 30-45 minutes/transfer.
Car rental: Dubai has a good transportation system and car rental services are also very popular.
Note: When taking the train or bus, men and women cannot sit together but must sit separately.
Ideal time to travel to Dubai
Winter (November to March): The weather is cool and pleasant, suitable for sightseeing and outdoor exploration.
Summer (April to October): Temperatures can reach 40-45°C, so if you travel in the summer, you will need to prepare heat protection measures such as sunscreen, cool clothes, and continuous drinking water.
Places to visit
Burj Khalifa
The tower was first called Burj Dubai, then renamed Burj Khalifa in honor of Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the president of the UAE, who provided financial support for the project.
The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world (828 meters) with 163 floors. Located in the Downtown Dubai complex, Burj Khalifa. Visitors can experience exciting activities such as admiring the panoramic view of the city from the observation deck on the 124th floor, which gives the feeling of flying in the sky.
The Burj Khalifa towers in the heart of the city, the observation decks on the 124th and 125th floors allow visitors to admire the panoramic view of Dubai from a height of 452 meters. The highlight is the 148th floor with luxurious space and impressive views. Burj Khalifa Tower is also a multi-purpose center, including: residential areas, hotels, offices, entertainment areas and is inspired by the hymenocallis flower.
Burj Al Arab
Another iconic building in Dubai with the shape of a sail. Only about ⅓ of the height of Burj Khalifa, this place is known as one of the most luxurious hotels in the world. At the same time, with a height of more than 300m, Burj Al Arab is recognized as the tallest hotel in the world and this is also the only 7-star hotel in the world.
Burj Al Arab is built on an artificial island about 280m off the coast of Dubai. So the outside of the hotel is decorated with thousands of white and yellow bricks, creating a sparkling look between the sunlight and the blue sea. Not only is the outside luxurious, but the space inside is also delicately and luxuriously designed. Burj Al Arab Hotel has a total of 202 rooms, each room is a separate apartment with an area of 169 to 780 square meters. The rooms are equipped with modern and luxurious amenities.
Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah is one of Dubai's three famous artificial palm islands. Built on the waters off the Persian Gulf, Palm Jumeirah is a paradise of luxury resorts and luxury villas. The archipelago is designed in the shape of a strange palm tree with a 3-mile long trunk with 16 branches and a large arc along the luxury villas and 5-star hotels, from water parks, zoos to clubs and beach parties.
Palm Jumeirah is also a tourism, entertainment and residential complex. With a series of luxury and classy hotels, resorts, restaurants and entertainment activities.
Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the world with more than 1,200 stores. It meets all shopping needs from luxury brands such as Gucci, Chanel, Louis Vuitton to more popular products. In addition, there is an artificial lake, cinema, entertainment area, and even an indoor ski area.
In addition to choosing fashion items, jewelry or accessories, visitors can also enjoy delicious dishes at the rich culinary area in Dubai Mall.
Here you will admire a giant aquarium in the heart of Dubai Mall, which is home to more than 33,000 marine animals and is recognized by the Guinness World Record as the longest wall in the world.
In addition, there is also a vibrant SEGA Republic indoor amusement park with many attractive games, along with a classy cinema with 22 screens and a capacity of up to 2,800 audiences. There is also an indoor ice skating rink that meets Olympic standards.
Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is home to some of the most luxurious architecture in the world. You can rent a boat to cruise around the area, overlooking the luxurious skyscrapers, a variety of dining and entertainment options.
Considered one of the ideal areas, suitable for jogging, evening shopping or just strolling along the river.
Desert Safari
Coming to Desert Safari, you cannot miss the wild beauty and adventurous activities.
Driving on the Sand Dunes: This is the main activity in a Desert Safari. You will sit in a 4x4 vehicle (usually a Toyota Land Cruiser) driven by experienced drivers, and will be driven on high sand dunes, swaying strongly through the dunes.
Sandboarding: You will be given a sandboard and can challenge your ability to keep your balance while sliding down the sand dunes. This is a popular and very fun activity for those who love thrills.
Riding a camel: You will be riding on the back of a camel, going through large sand dunes and enjoying the peaceful space of the desert. This is an interesting way to feel the nomadic culture in the desert.
Take photos with the sunset when the sun sets behind the sand dunes - this is a romantic and beautiful moment not to be missed.
Cuisine
Dubai has a mix of cuisines from all over the world. You can find typical Arabic dishes like hummus, falafel, as well as Western, Indian, Thai, and many other cuisines.
Hummus
Hummus is a traditional Middle Eastern dish made from mashed chickpeas, garlic, olive oil, lemon and tahini (a sesame paste). Hummus is often served with pita bread or raw vegetables. It is a popular appetizer in Dubai and the Middle East.
Falafel
Falafel are vegetarian, deep-fried balls made from mashed chickpeas or green beans with spices like garlic, onions, dill, and cumin. They are a popular snack in Dubai, often served with hummus and salad.
Shawarma
Shawarma is a popular street food in Dubai and many parts of the Middle East. It is made from grilled chicken, lamb or beef, thinly sliced and wrapped in a pita bread with vegetables, spices, garlic sauce or tahini. It is easy to find and is often served with crispy fries.
Machboos
Machboos is a traditional Emirati rice dish, cooked with meat (chicken, lamb or beef) and typical Middle Eastern spices, similar to biryani but with differences in taste and preparation. This dish is often eaten in family meals or during festivals.
Gahwa
Gahwa is a traditional Dubai drink, made from roasted Arabica coffee and brewed in a special coffee pot. Gahwa is often served with dates and rose water.
Dates
Dates are a traditional food in Dubai, considered a specialty of the United Arab Emirates. Dates can be eaten fresh or dried and are often used as a dessert or snack throughout the day.
Grilled Kebabs
Kebab is a very popular dish in Dubai, made from lamb, chicken or beef grilled with special spices. Kebab can be served with rice, salad or pita bread and is often enjoyed during outdoor meals.
Important Notes When Visiting Dubai
Culture and Social Etiquette: Dubai is a Muslim city, so visitors should respect rules such as dressing modestly, not drinking alcohol in public, and not engaging in public displays of affection.
Alcohol Rules: Alcohol is only sold in licensed hotels and restaurants. Drink in moderation and remember that drinking in public can result in fines.
Currency: Dubai uses the UAE Dirham (AED), and you can easily withdraw money from ATMs or pay with a credit card in most places.
Climate: Summer temperatures can be extremely hot, so pack cool clothes, sunscreen, and water.
