Dubai isn’t for everyone, but this mysterious city is truly one-of-a-kind and serves as the ultimate escape for the adventurous traveller
Dubai’s famed playground-like qualities are what makes it a trending destination, and with this in mind, we’ve found seven unique experiences you can only find in Dubai. Expect luxury, lively nightlife and unusual ultra-modern experiences to suit every kind of taste.
Experience the Rhythm of Full Moon Drumming
Make music under the moonlight in the desert with Dubai Drums, combining rhythmic tribal drumming with a relaxed family-friendly environment so everyone can get involved. For the cynics among you; it’s been proven that playing music in a group releases endorphins and is an excellent example of an ancient activity we can enjoy today.
Touch the Sky in the Tallest Building in the World – Burj Khalifa
If you’re a bit squeamish about heights then maybe stay away from the Burj Khalifa. Otherwise, board the 65-metre-long travelator that shows you the history of Dubai before ending up on the 124th floor to witness the skyline from this awe-inspiring height. To reach the very top, you’ll need to book a Sky Experience which takes you to the highest outdoor observatory in the world, right up on the 148th floor, which includes interactive experiences of the surrounding areas of the Emirate.
Dip Yourself in the Gold Souk
Ever look around your flat and think ‘this is nice, but it would be better if everything were gold?’ Well someone in Dubai has heard that “Early bird…” proverb and the Gold Souk is the place to buy everything gold, diamond and jewellery based. Even if you’re not a flashy person, it’s worth going and having a haggle with some of the local traders. Open every day from 10am-10pm except Friday when it opens at 4 pm.
Dive with Sharks at Dubai Aquarium
No need to grab a boat and head out to the ocean, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo has created a Shark Encounter experience right in the city. Safely enclosed in a diving cage, visitors can witness sharks being fed just inches away from the frenzy. This 30-minute experience also includes a tour of the shark facilities, feeding of shark babies and how the Aquarium breeds its sharks as well. Not for the faint-hearted.
Go off-piste – visit an Indoor Ski Resort and Mall
Feeling a bit toasty? In the Mall of the Emirates, which happens to be one of the largest malls in Dubai, lies Ski Dubai. This winter wonderland was created for all the family to enjoy the pleasures of skiing without the hefty price tag and extreme organising of booking a skiing holiday. To add to the ridiculousness of skiing in Dubai, you can also book a visit to meet one of the Snow Penguins that are let out of their enclosure a few times a day.
Have a Drink in a Sub-Zero Bar
Wait! Keep your coats on after skiing and visit the Middle East’s first sub-zero lounge bar, Chill Out Dubai. Maintaining a temperature of an amazing -6°C you might want to order a hot chocolate rather than a refreshing cocktail but there’s no doubt this is a must-see for all travellers.
Develop a Need for Speed with Formula 1 Racing
Yes, yes, Abu Dhabi is a totally different city, but it’s only 90 minutes away by car. And you’ll want to drive there to warm up because in Abu Dhabi, only one speed counts, and that’s fast. If you’ve been in UAE for a few days, you may have even noticed the Maseratis speeding past you in the city streets. So join the other petrol-heads at Yas Marina, the gorgeously designed circuit which hosts the country’s inaugural Grand Prix. If you’re not in town when the races are happening, then why not take out an F1 vehicle for a single-seater experience.
*Note: These rates are based on search queries made on nz.KAYAK.com on October 5, 2017. The prices are quoted in NZD. Flight prices are based on results for a return economy flight search. Hotel prices are for double occupancy and include taxes and fees. Prices are subject to change, may vary, or no longer be available.
