Buying Gold in Dubai

Buying gold in Dubai

Buying gold in Dubai

In Dubai, the gold market is known as The Gold Souk. There are a number of shops within this area which sell gold jewellery. The most amazing fact about this place is that you will never be able to see such a large congregation of gold jewellery anywhere else in the world. Usually, the souks are crowded, you will find that there is very little security for the gold shops in this place which is astonishing. It is best to visit during the evening time. You may find yourself lost in the vast collection of jewels leaving you indecisive. So, make sure you allot plenty of time for this.

In Dubai, Gold prices are the cheapest, this is the main factor drawing tourists to purchase gold on Dubai. There are two gold markets in Dubai. The Old and New Gold Souk, which are adjacent to each other. Buying gold is a risky affair, especially from a country that you’re visiting for the first time. The thing to remember is that jewellery design is the same in most of the shops, but you might get a good deal depending on the shops. It is essential to keep a few things in mind before buying gold in Dubai.

Remember to always bargain. It is a natural tendency for shop keepers to hike up prices when tourists come buy. So bargain for a lower prices, chances are that you can end up buying it for almost 20% less by bargaining. Don’t buy jewellery instantly. Since it is an investment, it is wise to always check the rates in different shops and then arrive at a conclusion. Also, Shimmer of the gold may differ outside and inside the shop at night, so check it in daylight as well. Make sure you get the necessary documents which support the authenticity of the gold. Usually, credit card payments are charged extra. While weighing the gold keep a watch, there are ways in which it can be manipulated. Don’t mix up your own jewellery with the ones in the shop while you’re trying them on. With all these things in mind gold shopping in Dubai should be a cinch.

Nightlife in Dubai

Nightlife in Dubai

Nightlife in Dubai

Like most cities, Dubai is more vibrant during the night. There are a host of nightclubs to choose from depending on what you’re looking for. However, tourists should remember that Dubai is an Islamic city. Thus, there are strict laws governing its nightlife. Liquor is not easily available in Dubai. There is a liquor permit issued for residence visa holders. If you are a visitor you will have to go to a nightclub or to a bar in a hotel to get liquor. Liquor is expensive in Dubai, especially in nightclubs and hotels. It would be best to buy liquor from the Duty Free shop at the Dubai Airport. There are no bars due to religious reasons. If drinking is a vital part of your routine then you will have to conjure up ways to get alcohol.

Cover charge is almost inevitable in any night club. It comes up to AED 50-100 for normal entry which sometimes includes a drink or two. In most clubs the entry for women in free. Certain clubs also have free entry on weeknights. On DJ nights the entry charges are around AED 100 – 200.

Like most countries entry for women and couples are hassle free. During the holy month of Ramadan you may be asked what religion you are. Muslims will be requested not to enter Dubai nightclubs and bars. Some of the popular clubs in Dubai are

  • 360° located in the Jumeirah Beach Hotel.
  • Scarlette which is located at Emirates Towers.
  • Sho Cho in Jumeirah Beach Road is known for its music.
  • Zinc loacted in the Crown Plaza Dubai has stand up comedy as an entertainment solution.
  • Barasti Bar at the Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Resort.
  • Buddha Bar in Grosvenor house.

Night clubs are allowed to function till 3 A.M., beyond which strict penalties are imposed. The Clubs also follow a strict dress code. Girls can pretty much get away with anything they wear. Men are supposed to wear formal shoes and shorts are not allowed. The weekend starts on Thursday so the clubs are bustling with people on this day. Dubai is considered one of the best and safest cities for partying, Extravagant yet classy!

Water Sports in Dubai

Water sports in Dubai

Water sports in Dubai

The climate in Dubai makes water sports a very popular way to cool off. Travellers keep this in the top of their to do list. The calm and warm waters of the Dubai Coast has contributed to water sports and made it a sought after recreational activity. Water sports is a must do if you’re in Dubai especially because of the alluring clear and shallow water which makes it safe for everyone.

The Wild Wadi Water Park is the main area only for water sports in Dubai. Rides are open 24 hours a day and the place is safe for both children and adults. There are different types of water rides which are sure to thrill you all the way. The crystal clear waters of the Arabian Gulf are home to innumerable species of fishes and thus the biggest support for the fishing industry in Dubai. It is the easiest and most favorite water sport Dubai has to offer. Being a fishers paradise, it is recognised as one of the biggest sailfish destinations in the world. Water Skiing gives tourists a chance to feel the caress of the gentle waters, and sea breeze. Dubai creek is one of the most favorite destinations. It is where the overseas trading in Dubai flourished. Now, it serves as an excellent area for a dinner cruise or a private boat ride.

Getting a little more adventurous, scuba diving is something you should not miss. There are many private tour operators providing training and necessary equipments for the enjoyment of this water sport in Dubai. While scuba diving, you’ll come across diverse sea life, so check your equipment before venturing into the sea. Another activity which is famous due to the shallow waters is snorkeling. Crab hunting and pearl diving are activities unique to the coasts of Dubai. Pearl diving forms a part of the ancient tradition.

Sailing, a very important part of the maritime tradition in Dubai. The Sailing clubs in Dubai provide all the luxurious facilities to the travelers while they sail across the Arabian Gulf. Ships are set with navigators and wireless Internet makes this a memorable activity.

Holidays in Dubai

Holidays in Dubai

Holidays in Dubai

Dubai is a city which is going all the way to make itself the biggest tourist destination in the world. From man made beaches to shopping festivals, Dubai offers a kaleidoscope of activities to gratify it’s visitors. Many would find it hard to believe that an arid desert land can provide such a marvellous experience. The efforts of the Dubai Government to make it bustling with tourists haven’t gone in vain. It is a truly an unique destination and as they say you have to see it to believe it.

The city of Dubai has a modern setting yet it maintains traditional values. One of the main attractions towards Dubai is the breathtaking architecture. One can see a variety of buildings like the modern ones in the posh localities of Dubai and the mud houses in Heritage Village which represent primitive architecture. It is home to the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa. The bustle in the souk’s of Dubai are never ending. Shopping is another major attraction in Dubai. So much so a month long festival called the ‘Dubai Shopping Festival’ brings in customers all over the world with the tax free products that it showcases. The beaches and islands in Dubai are a class apart. The islands are man made off the Dubai coast where as the beaches have crystal clear water with golden coloured sand. Jet skiing and snorkeling are some of the main crowd pullers here.

A holiday in Dubai cannot be limited to shopping and sight seeing alone. Apart from this there are a variety of recreational activities which cannot be found anywhere else. Desert Safari or Dune Bashing is an activity where you can head to the desert in an SUV with specialist Desert Drivers. The drivers will take you for a roller-coaster ride over sand dunes, show you the sunset from a strategic vantage point and then take you to a lavish dinner with music and dance to complete the journey. Wild Wadi Park and the Dubai Zoo are great places to take the kids. Golfing and Tennis are immensely popular in Dubai. For a change, you can try out sand golfing in the desert.
If you don’t want to strain yourself choosing the right places to visit, the best option is to go for a holiday package. A holiday package arranges everything from your air tickets to hotel to commuting within the city. There are a variety of attractive holiday packages available to Dubai.

10 Facts you never knew about The Burj Al Arab Hotel Dubai

10 Facts you never knew about The Burj Al Arab Hotel Dubai

10 Facts you never knew about The Burj Al Arab Hotel Dubai

Located off the Jumeirah coast, The Burj al Arab hotel has been marveled ever since it was unveiled in 1999. A lot of interesting facts surround this architectural wonder.

Royally Expensive

Burj al Arab is one of the most expensive hotels in the world to stay in. A suite can cost around $1,000 per night and increases to over $15,000 per night. The Royal Suite is the most expensive, at $28,000 per night.

Spacial Splendour

The smallest suite of the Burj al Arab occupies an area of 169 square meters, the largest covers 780 square meters. Despite its size, the Burj al Arab holds only 28 double-storey floors which accommodate 202 bedroom suites.

Soaring sky high

It is one of the worlds tallest structures. Also, the first five star hotel to surpass 1000 feet in height. This altitude defying structure also has a 24 metre wide helipad at a height of 210 metres above the ground which also doubles as the world’s highest tennis court.

Totally man made

The hotel is constructed 280 meters offshore on an artificial island. To secure a foundation, the builders drove 230 40-meter long concrete piles into the sand. The foundation is held in place not by bedrock, but by the friction of the sand and silt along the length of the piles. It took three years to reclaim the land from the sea, and less than three years to construct the building itself.

Things that money can buy

The building contains over 70,000 cubic meters of concrete and 9,000 tons of steel. The total cost to construct the hotel was $650 million. The building is heavily guarded, access is only possible with a reservation or an invitation. There is a dress code to be followed which means no sneakers and shorts.

Set a sail

The hotel resembles the sail of a dhow, a type of Arabian vessel. Two “wings” spread in a V to form a vast “mast”, while the space between them is enclosed in a massive atrium.

Boldly GOLD

The atrium takes up about a third of the hotel’s space and soars 590 feet above the lobby. Strong pillars gilded in 22-karat gold stretch up several floors, and gold spandrels leap and crisscross between them. Every half hour, a jet shoots a stream of water 138 feet into the open atrium.

Luxury redefined

With chauffeur driven Rolls Royce for its guests, private reception desk on every floor and a brigade of well trained butlers who provide around-the-clock service, this hotel promises world class luxury at its best.

Dining underwater!

Six restaurants within the hotel provide a variety of dining options. But, by far the Al Mahara provides the most exquisite experience. A three minute submarine ride transports diners from the hotel lobby to the restaurant entrance. The restaurant entrance where you find a cellar is filled with a selection of the world’s finest wines. The restaurant serves a range of the best seafood available in the city.

Changing facade

The Teflon-coated hotel is brilliant white during a sunny day, but takes on an entirely different look at night. Computer programmed spotlights create a changing tableau of colors on the white facade.

Dubai Girl Fashions

Dubai Girl Fashions

Dubai Girl Fashions

Dubai is one of the most highly developed city in the United Arab Emirates. Although, Its development into a global city has not let it forget its ancient values. The culture in the city is deeply rooted to Islam. Their religion governs their way of life from what they eat to what they wear. As per Islamic tradition, women are required to dress very modestly. In Dubai, you can see women wear long dresses called ‘abaya’ and a headscarf called ‘shailah’. This dress is sometimes known as ‘burqa’ and their faces are covered by what is known as a ‘niqab’. Women in Dubai are known to shop for designer clothing from abroad. They have also found ways in which they can make their ‘abaya’ look fashionable with varied use of color, open neck and slightly exposed shoulders.

Blessed with natural beauty, the women of Dubai are known to adapt to the changing fashion trends. Even though they are caught by the shackles of religion, they find ways to be more trendy even with their limited options. At home, they dress more like princesses with short sleeved or sleeveless clothes. They are known to splurge of expensive jewellery with swarovski crystals and gold. Dubai used to be a highly patriarchal city. Men ran the family and women had little say in the dealings of the house. They were expected to stay at home to take care of the children. Some families even had rules where women were not to be seen by anyone outside. That is they were confined to the house. In 1971, the UAE constitutional amendment gave women equal rights. They were allowed to get an education and practise a career of their choice. They were also treated as a part of the society and were given the freedom to enjoy its benefits.

Now, women are not only enjoying their social freedom but also exercising the freedom to express themselves through their clothes. Women in Dubai today are known to wear high profile designer clothing under their ‘abaya’ for social gatherings and while in public. Women from the west who are living in Dubai are following the conservative rules to respect the culture of the land. Even though, they’re not required to wear the traditional clothes, they have to wear clothes which are not too revealing. This is especially for women who move around in populated public areas.

Adventure Sports in Dubai

Adventure sports in dubai

Adventure sports in dubai

The mark of a good adventure sport is the rush that it gives. Dubai is not likely to disappoint in this area. The arid desert is home to a host of adventure sports. The city is not only famous for its sky high scrapers in the metallic jungle but also for the great fun it provides outdoors. The vast span of golden sand is the perfect place to start with sand skiing. Dashing through the sand and seeing the sand flying behind you is a feat you can experience only in Dubai. When compared to snow skiing, it is less risky in terms of injury as the sand gives a softer landing. However, for beginners it is always advisable to get some professional help. Dune bashing or the desert safari is another adventure sport Dubai has to offer. It is a form of off-roading a vehicle to explore the sand dunes. As far as safety is concerned, an experienced driver is sent along as manoeuvring through the sand isn’t all that easy!

Camel riding is an upcoming favourite amongst tourists. It is best way to enjoy the deserts and sand dunes. These bumpy rides have stops for refreshment and rest as well. Camel riding is provided by the hotels and is also included in certain travel packages. Rock climbing is a common adventure sport. There are some interesting rock-climbing routes, one can try out indoor climbing at the Pharaohs Club, Qud al-Mehta and Pyramids in Dubai.

For all those speedsters, the Formula One Track on the Dubai-Abu-Dhabi road is something that you shouldn’t miss. Fully equipped with indoor facilities for go-karting, this place is a must-visit on Dubai adventure trips. The excitement of adventure sports in Dubai will be incomplete without cycling in Hatta Town, which is about one hour away from Dubai.

Those who would enjoy a panoramic view of the city have a few options to choose from. Paragliding gives a scenic view of the city’s skyline. Helicopter or balloon rides are also available for providing the same experience. Similarly, there are is indoor sky diving at iFLY, Mirdif City Centre. So if you’re on a pursuit adrenaline fuelled activities, Dubai is the place to visit!

Underwater Hotels in Dubai

Underwater Hotels in Dubai

Underwater Hotels in Dubai

On a comic note it has sometimes been said that Dubai has more construction workers than actual citizens. This concrete jungle is home to some of the most amazing works of architecture in the world. Now, they’ve left land and ventured into the deep blue sea. Dubai is almost set to unveil the world’s first underwater luxury hotel ‘Crescent Hydropolis’ in 2013. According to the plan laid out, the hotel was to be built in Germany and assembled in Dubai. However, a lot of delay has occurred due to the economic crisis in Dubai. Not only that there are several concerns about its effect on marine life.

It is said to have three main parts : the land station (where guests will be welcomed), the connecting tunnel (which will transport the guests by train to the main area of the hotel), and the 220 suites within the underwater leisure complex. This architectural project is considered to be one of the largest in the world till date covering 260 hectares. The land on which the Hydropolis is being built belongs to HH Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai. A whopping $550 million is the cost of construction. With his encouragement around 150 firms have invested in the project. Built below the surface of the Persian Gulf, Jumeriah coastline, this amazing underwater hotel in Dubai, will be next to Burj-Al-Arab. It is an estimated 66 ft below sea level. One night stay in this aquatic marvel could cost around US$550 per room. There has been a lot of hype and speculation surrounding ‘Hydropolis’. The inspiration for the architect for Hydropolis, Joachim Hauser is beleived to have come from the novel ‘20,000 Leagues Under The Sea’ by Jules Verne.

The hotel is said to resemble a jellyfish and is constructed from a combination of concrete, steel and clear Plexiglas. After its completion, a person staying in the hotel would be able to experience the magical life undersea. This project will set tourists flocking to Dubai to have this one of a kind experience. Edutainment is another special highlight for visitors. There will be a high-tech cinema in which the history of underwater architecture as well as the evolution of life in the ocean will be shown. A viewing platform at the front opening of the spanning roof structure allows stunning views by day and night of the architecture and the light shows of Hydropolis. But, only time will tell whether this project is just a dream or will turn into a reality!

Malls in Dubai

Malls in Dubai

Malls in Dubai

Shop till you drop! this is what best defines the mall culture in Dubai. Dubai has something for everyone, whether visitors are looking for a cultural experience or purely indulging in the lavish lifestyle the city has to offer. Spanning over acres of land, Dubai has 68 malls and 8 whose construction are underway. Most tourists visit shopping malls even though there are a variety of bargain free shops outside because of the speciality shops in the malls.

The malls don’t brag only about the shopping facilities but also the excellent architecture. Most shopping malls take up a major portion of Dubai’s skyline. Dubai Shopping Centers have a  complete entertainment package. Most of them have cinema halls, restaurants, multi-level car parking and theme-based attractions, and in addition retail outlets of top international brands. There are special recreational centres for kids when the parents go shopping. Kids can entertain themselves in skating rinks or video game parlours.

Prominent malls in Dubai

The Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping malls in terms of total area. It forms a part of the Burj Khalifa complex and has about 1200 shops. The main attraction in this mall is that it has an underwater zoo and loads of entertainment areas!

Diera City Centre is located opposite  to the Creek Golf and Yacht Club. It is open from 10:00 AM to midnight on weekdays and 2pm to midnight on Friday. It is the only mall which is open for such long hours in Dubai and is often crowded till it closes down.

The Mall of Emirates, located in the Al Barsha district of Dubai, is one of the largest shopping malls in the world. Since its inception in 2005, it offers a range of shopping, leisure and entertainment.

Dubai Festival City located in Dubai Creek, was constructed in 2005. It has 116 retail shops, a collection of cafes and eateries, four floors of parking with 2000 spaces, a ‘Waitrose’ Supermarket, a children’s play area, a six screen cinema and an attached hotel, everything a shopaholic could ask for is right here!

The feature that makes malls in Dubai a great place for shopping is the fact that it is duty-free that means low or mostly no duties or tariffs imposed on foreign products. Many international designer outlets can be found here. Major branded products are often found less expensive in Dubai than its country of origin. They are also a relief from the blistering heat as they are fully air conditioned. Dubai is often nicknamed as the shopping capital of the middle east and also the fashion capital. Most malls are open till 10:00 PM

Places for Shopping in Dubai

Places for shopping in Dubai

Places for shopping in Dubai

A shoppers dream come true, Dubai is right up there in any shoppers list of places to visit. For them to have a separate festival just for shopping means they have something there which people would like to buy. With the variety of malls and shops to choose from, shopping seems like a national pastime here. It may sound ridiculous to some that the city is so dedicated to making itself a shoppers paradise. In spite of there being nearly 80 malls, many more of underway. As a tourist if you are coming to Dubai make sure you have enough bags to carry the shopped goods back to your country.

Dubai just spoils you with choices when it comes to shopping. Known for designer goods and electronics, the city has much to offer to a shopaholic. The best thing is you can either go for the contemporary way of shopping to the malls or even go back in time to the days when small shops were popular. Malls are a great place to do some quality shopping, everything and anything is available there. They are comfortable places to max out your credit cards. Fully air conditioned they are also a great way to beat the heat. They also provide indoor entertainment. The biggest mall in the world, The Dubai Mall has an underwater zoo and play zones for kids. It is situated next to the Burj Khalifa, the worlds tallest tower. The show stopper in this mall is the Bloomingdale’s outlet, which is the only one outside the USA. It has an indoor ice rink and cinema theatres. The Mall of Emirates is another must stop shopping area. Even though it stands at a close second, this mall is well known for its inbuilt ski slope. The mall has various high end designer outlets. It also houses a kids arcade and a multiplex. Other malls to visit are Dubai Festival City, Deira City Centre etc. Most of Dubai’s malls are open from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. Even though the city is liberal certain rules should be followed in public areas like dressing decently. Another thing to follow is you should not eat in public places during the holy month of Ramadan.

There are several Arabian style souks which are the areas where consumerism is at its peak. The notable souks in town are Gold Souk, the Spice Souk and Textile Souk. The Gold Souk located in Deira is the best place to find a variety of gold and diamond jewelery. The Spice Souk is five minutes away from the Gold Souk in Deira. The allure of fresh spices will not let you leave the place without buying something. The Textile Souk is the best place to buy lush silks fabrics that the Middle East is famous for. If you are visiting Dubai with the sole purpose of shopping then do it during the month of January when the Dubai Shopping Festival happens. You will have all the above under one roof with the best discounts.