February 7, 2024
One look at Dubai is enough to convince travelers that this desert metropolis is worth a visit. Whether you’re looking for high-end shopping, luxurious spas, world-class restaurants, or the classic beach getaway, Dubai has it all. Nicknamed the City of Gold, this megacity isn’t afraid to flex its opulence. From the tallest building in the world to some of the largest manmade islands, Dubai is a city of extremes. Here’s the ultimate guide for a luxurious visit to Dubai.
Go on a shopping spree at the Dubai Mall.
As if Dubai hadn’t already claimed its fair share of superlatives, the city’s Dubai Mall is the second-largest in the world. High-end brands like Ralph Lauren, Chanel, and Gucci converge from around the world in this luxurious and opulent retail space that, at times, feels more like an amusement park. Those who aren’t in the mood for shopping can visit the mall’s aquatic zoo, complete with a tunnel offering 270-degree views of some of the largest aquariums on the planet.
Visit Dubai’s manmade Palm Islands.
Palm Islands are a series of manmade islands in Dubai named for their palm-tree-like shape. Together, Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali, and Palm Deira comprise this group of artificial archipelagos. While much of the islands are dedicated to residential housing, there are still a prominent number of luxury hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues sprinkled throughout the Palms’ expansive promenades and boardwalks. If giant manmade islands weren’t impressive enough, Dubai is also home to The World Islands – a collection of island formations designed to replicate a map of the world.
Enjoy spectacular views from the Burj Khalifa.
Dubai is a stunning city when you’re standing in its streets, but this beauty is taken to new heights (literally) when you’re standing on top of the Burj Khalifa. Being the tallest building in the world, you really can’t find views like this anywhere else. From the 124th floor’s observation deck, you’ll be able to see the sprawling city of Dubai, the Persian Gulf, and the unending sands of the Arabian Desert. If you want to enjoy the vistas with a nice meal, head down to the 122nd floor to dine in At.Mosphere.
Escape the city for some desert fun.
With over 80% of the U.A.E. being covered in desert, cities like Dubai are an oasis of luxury and growth. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t some amazing things to see and do on the outskirts of the city. If you have enough time, consider escaping Dubai for an unforgettable day in the desert. Whether you want to ride in an iconic camel caravan, ski down massive sand dunes, go four-wheeling, or spend the night in a romantic desert bungalow, the possibilities are endless.
Catch a sunset at Sunset Beach.
After a long day of exploring the expansive metropolis or basking in the warm Middle Eastern sun, there’s no better place to watch the sunset than…well, Sunset Beach. You’ll be met with iconic waterfront views of the Persian Gulf with the famed Burj Al Arab, or Sailboat Hotel, in the background. If you’re here during the day, you can rent surfboards and other ocean equipment from the beachside kiosks.
Watch the Dubai Fountain light show.
Dubai doesn’t go to sleep after the sun sets – it just lights up. The city’s hundreds of high rises and skyscrapers illuminate the darkness as an entirely new atmosphere takes over. The Dubai Fountain, located just beneath the Burj Khalifa, puts on a choreographed light show every night as if to usher in the city’s nightlife. The entire show lasts for 30 minutes and is repeated for hours, so you don’t have to worry about rushing around.
It’s time to ditch your excuses and start planning that trip you’ve been putting off for years. Whether you want to bask in the luxury of a modern metropolis like Dubai or reconnect with nature in some of the world’s top national parks, CI Azumano Travel will be your personal travel planner throughout the process. For the travel moments you want, you should only work with the experts that know…that’s us!