Dubai ~ Travel Guides
Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates and is the country’s most visited city. Located on the Arabian Gulf coast, it is known for its skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and large-scale tourism development. The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and artificial islands like the Palm Jumeirah are global landmarks. Dubai International Airport is one of the busiest transit hubs worldwide. Arabic is the official language, and the UAE dirham is the currency, but English is widely spoken. Dubai has a desert climate, with extreme heat in summer and pleasant conditions from November to March. Alcohol is available in licensed venues, and public behaviour laws must be respected. The city has a modern metro system and good road infrastructure. Beyond malls and hotels, visitors can explore souks, desert landscapes, museums, and beaches. It’s safe, highly organised, and ideal for city breaks, stopovers, and sunshine holidays.
Whenever I arrive in a new destination, my first instinct is to find the highest vantage point possible. Whether it’s trekking up a rugged mountain trail or taking a high-speed lift to the top of a skyscraper, gaining that initial elevation is essential for gathering my bearings and truly understanding the scale of a city. In a place as architectural and sprawling as Dubai, this perspective is transformative; it allows you to see how the intricate veins of the motorways connect the futuristic skyline to the vast, golden desert beyond.
Around 90 minutes from Downtown Dubai, Hatta offers a completely different side to the emirate. Surrounded by the Hajar Mountains near the Oman border, this mountain town is known for its rugged landscapes, outdoor adventures and cooler climate. Once a quiet farming community, it has become one of Dubai's most popular destinations for hiking, kayaking and weekend escapes.
Bussola marked its 20th anniversary last weekend, an impressive milestone for any Dubai restaurant, especially in a city that moves as fast as this one. When Bussola first opened, it stood alone on the beachfront long before the current marina skyline or the new Dubai Harbour existed. Today it sits within The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi, yet it has kept the same consistency and familiarity that long-term residents will recognise instantly. If you have lived in Dubai for a while, you will know it is one of the few places that never disappoints, and it is somewhere people naturally return to.
Dubai's luxury scene just got a significant upgrade with the arrival of Iliana, the glamorous new Greek-Mediterranean destination nestled within the breathtaking Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab. Inspired by the simple elegance and vibrant flavours of the Cycladic islands, Iliana first opened its doors earlier this year, quickly establishing itself as a sophisticated, three-part venue. From its chic restaurant offering authentic coastal cuisine and its luxurious pool club perfect for day-long relaxation, Iliana is already a must-visit. Yet, the final, and perhaps most anticipated, element of this concept has just been unveiled: the stunning Iliana rooftop.
If you only have two days in Dubai, planning your time carefully is essential to make the most of your short stay. The city is packed with towering modern landmarks, historic neighbourhoods, traditional souks, world-class dining, and desert adventures, meaning it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by choice. This insider’s itinerary is designed to highlight the experiences and attractions that can realistically fit into 48 hours, combining the city’s most iconic sights with local favourites that give a true sense of Dubai’s character.
The Renaissance Business Bay Hotel is a five star Marriott property set right on the Dubai Water Canal in Business Bay. The hotel was rebranded in 2024 from the former Grand Millennium, bringing a refreshed design and updated facilities to the area. Its location is ideal for exploring the city, just a five-minute drive from Downtown Dubai, the Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Mall, with the canal promenade running directly outside for walks or cycling.
Dubai doesn’t slow down for summer — it simply moves indoors, underwater, and after dark. While the temperatures soar, so do the experiences, from world-class spas and immersive museums to rooftop pools and desert safaris designed with the heat in mind. Whether you're chasing thrills, culture, or just somewhere beautifully air-conditioned, here are 15 of the best things to do in Dubai this summer.
Set above the shoreline at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, Ginger Moon offers something new to the city: a beach club experience without the beach. Overlooking the Arabian Gulf and Dubai Harbour, with the towers of Dubai Marina rising behind, it’s a relaxed space designed for long afternoons and evenings.
At its centre, a large olive tree grows up from the valet area two floors below and stretches through the heart of the restaurant, forming the bar canopy with seating all around. The kitchen is open, so you can see the chefs at work, and there’s a choice between indoor tables or breezy outdoor seating. We visited for dinner (kindly gifted) and stayed well into the night.
From groundbreaking architectural wonders to immersive cultural experiences, the UAE has rapidly emerged as a global hub for art, history, and interfaith dialogue. Whether you're exploring the contemporary galleries of the Louvre Abu Dhabi, delving into the nation's heritage at the Etihad Museum, or discovering the profound significance of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, each destination offers a unique glimpse into the UAE's evolving cultural landscape.
Dubai, renowned for its opulence, innovation, and luxurious lifestyle, boasts an array of exceptional hotels that redefine hospitality at every turn. From gleaming skyscrapers gracing the skyline to pristine beaches along the azure Gulf waters, Dubai's hotels offer an unparalleled blend of modern comfort and Arabian hospitality.
Have you ever wondered why so many people move to Dubai? It’s a baby compared to the other major cities in the world. However in recent years, it’s become a top destination for tourists and expats. It’s the most populous city in the UAE and boasts a luxurious lifestyle, of beautiful beaches, huge skyscrapers and most importantly, job opportunities. It is also in the top 10 of safest cities in the world.
Are you still not sure if Dubai is for you? Then let me convince you, the best way I know how - through photos! Dubai has everything you could possibly need within a 20km radius, including every kind of landscape. Beautiful beaches, skylines of skyscrapers, dreamy deserts, and also mountains, can be found only an hours drive away from the city.
Whilst Dubai is known for being a modern metropolis, it’s also a coastal city which is a huge perk, as there are many fancy 5* hotels and beach clubs dotted all along the seafront. The city has over 300 days a year of sunshine and blue skies - spare a few days for sandstorms. Given the near-perfect weather all year long, Dubai is also famous for its brunches… on the beach! Any day or time of the week - unlimited food & drinks, DJs, infinity pools and a bloody good time awaits you. And maybe some crazy Brits…
Whether you have a trip booked or you’re planning to travel to Dubai, this ultimate guide will provide you with all the information you need. Dubai is the busiest and most exciting city in the United Arab Emirates. The UAE is conservative, however, it’s not as strict as most Middle Eastern countries.
Whether you’re in the mood for sipping cocktails by the Burj Khalifa or tucking into Greek food with your toes in the sand – Dubai’s got you covered. From sky-high lounges to beachside gems, the list of restaurants here is genuinely endless. I always say I’ll go back to the same place – I really do – but somehow, every week, I end up discovering somewhere new and convincing myself it counts as “research.”
Dubai is known for being the perfect holiday destination with the beaches being the number one attraction. The city boasts a beautiful coastline with white sand, turquoise waters and calm waves. Swimming in the sea is ideal in the months of April, May, October and November. December to March are the cooler months of the year which is when the sea temperature is also colder. However, there aren’t many days of the year where I wouldn’t go to the beach!
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa sits in the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, about 45 minutes from Downtown Dubai. Originally opened in 2004, the resort underwent a full renovation and reopened in 2023 with a fresh new look and upgraded facilities. The redesign kept the resort’s desert‑fort aesthetic while adding new restaurants, updated rooms and villas, and refreshed facilities. There are 115 rooms and suites in total, three swimming pools, and seven dining and lounge venues. The resort is surrounded only by sand dunes and wildlife like oryx and gazelles, which makes it feel far removed from the city despite the short drive. After nearly seven years of living in the UAE, this is still, without a doubt, my favourite resort in the country.
There are many reasons why I call myself a water baby. I learned to swim at age 4 and stayed with the same company until I was swimming competitively for them at aged 16. I then became a lifeguard where I actively worked in the position for 9 years, including countless jobs that took me all over the world, from Japan, China and the USA. In 2014 I then qualified to be a swim coach which is the main reason why I’m now based in the United Arab Emirates.
Ever heard of The World Islands? I hadn’t either until moving to Dubai. The World Islands is an archipelago of small artificial islands in the Arabian Gulf. Dubai is famous for its man-made islands and land reclamation. The most famous examples of this are the Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah, which are land extensions of the city connected to the mainland. This is where The World Islands are different. They’re located 4km off the coast of Dubai and the only way to get to them is by boat, helicopter or jet ski if you wish.
Smashed avocado with scrambled eggs and a latte, please…
I’ll always choose a breakfast date over dinner—especially in Dubai, where mornings are something special. There’s just something about starting the day with sunlight, good coffee, and a sea view (or a skyline one). The city does breakfast so well, whether you're after a beachside café with fresh pastries or a rooftop spot serving truffle eggs and oat milk lattes.
I’ve worked my way through a fair few places, but there are still so many more to try. That’s the thing about Dubai—it’s constantly evolving, and its breakfast scene is no different. From laid-back neighbourhood favourites to buzzy hotspots worth booking ahead for, there’s a spot for every kind of morning.
Staycations have become the new go-to—and honestly, I’m not complaining. There’s something special about switching off without needing a passport or a flight. The UAE makes it easy, with so many incredible spots just a short drive away. Whether it’s a desert escape under the stars, a beachfront hotel that feels like a mini honeymoon, or a sleek city stay with skyline views and spa days—there’s something for every kind of weekend.
Truth be told, I have a slight obsession with sunsets. There’s something endlessly captivating about the way the sky transforms—soft pastels melting into deep oranges, golds, and purples, casting everything in a warm, fleeting glow. No two are ever quite the same, and I find myself drawn to them wherever I go, whether I’m by the sea, in the mountains, or simply watching from a rooftop in the city. They mark the quiet end of a day, a moment to pause, breathe, and take it all in. Over the past few years, I’ve made it a habit to photograph sunsets whenever they catch my eye—sometimes planned, sometimes spontaneous, always worth it. These are some of my favourite captures, each one tied to a memory, a place, or a feeling. I hope they bring you a little bit of the same peace and wonder they gave me.
Whenever I visit a new country or city, my first port of call is always to see the view from the highest point. Majority of the time that’s from the tallest skyscraper or on top of a mountain. I love to figure out my bearings so I can navigate and plan a successful trip. I’m slightly obsessed with viewing decks and skylines - it’s always my favourite part of any new city that I visit.
Located on a prime 700-metre stretch of private shoreline, the Mina Seyahi collection serves as a prestigious gateway between the Dubai Marina and the Arabian Gulf. This sprawling estate integrates three distinct Marriott properties—the neoclassical luxury of The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, the mid-century chic Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark, and the ultra-modern, adult-focused W Dubai - Mina Seyahi.