When it comes to planning where to go on holiday, we are all likely to be looking for different things. However, one destination that is bound to have something for everyone is Dubai.
No matter what you want from your break, Dubai is sure to be the perfect place.
And if you want to go on a culture-packed holiday, the emirate certainly does not disappoint thanks to its range of museums and sites of historical interest.
By visiting the Dubai Museum you can gain an insight into what life was like in the region hundreds of years ago. Housed in the 18th century Al Fahidi Fort, the museum’s galleries recreate traditional Arab houses, souks and mosques, with some of the excavated artefacts on display dating back thousands of years.
You can also learn more about Dubai’s past by visiting the home of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, who ruled the emirate from 1912 to 1958. The museum located here contains a collection of historic photos and documents, as well as rare stamps and coins.
A sense of Dubai’s history can also be gained when checking out its architecture. Be sure to visit Bastakiya – located a short walk from the Dubai Museum, the tall windtowers and narrow lanes that can be found here offer you a glimpse into traditional Arabian life.
However, if you prefer looking at more modern architecture than you will be in the right place due to the emirate’s numerous skyscrapers and other mesmerising buildings. One of these is the Burj Al Arab hotel, which opened in 1999 and has an iconic shape mimicking a ship’s sail.
And it will be hard to miss the Burj Khalifa, which at 2,716 ft is the tallest building in the world. To get a sense of the sheer scale of the skyscraper, head to the observation deck on the 124th floor where you can take in some mesmerising views of Dubai.
But if you prefer shopping over skyscrapers, there will be plenty of opportunities for you to splash the cash while on your holidays in Dubai.
Visiting one of the many malls is the ideal excuse for a spot of retail therapy, with everything from designer clothes and jewellery to electronic goods on offer.
The Dubai Mall is the largest retail outlet in the world and as well as containing hundreds of shops it is also home to a cinema, aquarium and ice rink.
For a more traditional shopping experience however, visit one of the many souks for some authentic handmade Arabian products. Here you may be able to haggle with traders and get your hands on a bargain!
Sports lovers are also sure to love holidays to Dubai. Not only does the emirate contain several championship-quality golf courses, but you can also try your hand at a range of water sports. If you prefer staying on dry land, head into the desert for sand skiing or go on a cycling tour around the Hatta mountain enclave.
Of course, many people want to do nothing more than relax while on vacation. And a holiday to Dubai in 2011 can certainly provide this. Why not soak up the sun while on Jumeirah Beach before heading to one of the many spa and wellness centres for a beauty treatment?
Whatever you’re looking for from your break, from visiting to see family or friends to all inclusive holidays, a Dubai holiday has it all.