Holidays in Dubai

Those who have ever visited the UAE will probably agree that a significant part of the newest wonders of the world are located right here, in the capital of Dubai. This is the most chic and modern city in the entire Middle East, its pearl. Ancient mosques and neighborhoods here coexist with gigantic towers and highways; eras, Arab and European traditions, the wealth of the center and the poverty of remote areas are intertwined in Dubai. A paradise among deserts, a trip to the Emirates will meet your expectations and leave a lot of impressions.

Dubai and its attractions

Burj Khalifa is the tallest skyscraper not only in the UAE but throughout the world. Its opening took place in 2010, but information about the height and number of floors was kept secret until recently. This was done in case someone wanted to build a building higher than the Burj Khalifa. As a result, the total height was about 830 meters, and the cost was 1.5 billion dollars.

Burj Khalifa is a real “city within a city” with its alleys, parks, apartments, offices, restaurants, a spacious observation deck with a jacuzzi, and a shopping center. Everything is made on the basis of the latest technologies; the arrow, which seems to pierce the sky, can be seen outside the city, at the entrance to Dubai.

Right next to the tower there is another wonder of the world - a “singing” fountain, the height of which reaches the 50th floor. At the same time, the iridescent streams seem to dance to the music of different peoples of the world, and thousands of multi-colored lamps illuminate the fountain. It is better to watch the grand show when it is completely dark.

The largest shopping center in the Middle East is the closest neighbor of the Burj Khalifa; its gigantic size is simply amazing (1.2 million sq. m.). Fans of leisurely walks through boutiques will be delighted by their number; here you can find both budget stores and expensive global brands. However, the entertainment of the Dubai Mall is not limited to this; save your energy for the amusement park - an ice skating rink, numerous restaurants and cafes and, of course, the largest oceanarium, which is included in the Guinness Book of Records. You should definitely go up to the observation deck of the building on the 124th floor, from where you can enjoy a stunning panorama of the city.

Like any Islamic state, Dubai has a huge number of mosques, but the most important religious building in the country is the Jumeirah Mosque, a true example of Arabic architecture made of white stone, decorated with minarets, a central dome, ancient writings and accommodating about 1,200 worshipers at a time. An interesting fact is that, unlike other mosques, non-Muslims are allowed entry here 6 days a week.

The sights of Bastakiya, the oldest district of Dubai, deserve special attention. This place on the shore of the bay began to be built up in the 19th and 20th centuries by Persian merchants, who later became involved in the oil trade.

All houses in Bastakiya were built according to the same principle - the base of the houses was made of bricks (a mixture of red clay and palm leaves), and the walls were made of coral, crushed shells and lime from the bottom of the bay. At the same time, windmills were invented, which were not known to the world until the beginning of the last century.

In the 80s, the old area was on the verge of complete destruction, but later it was bought from local residents and restored. Bastakiya is filled with tourists, many restaurants and hotels are opening.

Sightseeing usually begins at the Sheikh Mohammed Cultural Center; tourists stroll along the surviving section of the city wall, the snow-white mosque and Al Fahidi Fort.

Best hotels in Dubai

The most luxurious and richly furnished hotels of the world located exactly in Dubai, they can hardly be called hotels, these are real five-star palaces.

Palazzo Versace Dubai 5* was built in the very heart of the capital, within walking distance from the Burj Khalifa skyscraper, along the picturesque bay. The first thing that guests of the city usually pay attention to is the splendor of the hotel's Greek style and the image of the legendary Medusa of the Versace brand. Fabrics and finishes designed specifically for the hotel, the reflective pond surrounding Palazzo Versace Dubai, furniture from the Versace collection, exquisite furnishings, handcrafted decorative elements, the functionality of each element - all this creates the opportunity to relax at the highest level.

Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa 5* was built in one of the greenest areas of Dubai - Jumeirah. Surrounded by palm thickets, it looks like a wonderful oasis far from civilization, although it is in close proximity to the airport and large shopping centers. The highlight of the hotel is two huge swimming pools, a cozy Arabic cafe with national cuisine and a large number of restaurants.

Rixos The Palm Dubai 5* has deservedly received high marks from guests from all over the world; it is an excellent choice for a family holiday, romantic trip and business meetings. The hotel complex consists of a hotel area and separate apartments overlooking the bay and skyscrapers of Dubai. The architecture of Rixos The Palm Dubai 5* is unique and modern, the lush vegetation of the hotel cascades onto the sandy shore, where there is an entertainment area.

Al Bustan Center & Residence 4* is located in the business district of Dubai and is popular not only for the opportunity to relax in the magical capital of the UAE, but also because it is located nearby the famous stadium where the largest sports competitions take place. The hotel has a sauna, tennis court and gym, several cafes and restaurants, swimming pools and beauty salons.

Prices in Dubai

Arabic food and its prices deserve a separate discussion, because people come to Dubai not only to enjoy the sun, sea and wonderful views, but also exotic cuisine that can be tasted literally everywhere - from a street stall to a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Gourmet dishes are most often prepared in restaurants at luxury hotels; the freshest seafood, meat dishes, pasta, etc. are especially popular. The average check in such an establishment will be about 5 thousand.

At the resorts Buffet service is also in demand in Dubai; in such cafes you only pay for entry and choose an unlimited number of dishes. The price varies from 800 to 4 thousand rubles.

You can also have lunch at an Indian restaurant on a very budget - from 400 rubles.

Other expense items:

• renting a one-room apartment in the city center - 110 thousand;
• renting a one-room apartment on the outskirts - 72 thousand;
• cost of monthly utility bills - 9,000;
• one-way ticket on public transport - 77 rubles;
• taxi ride - 60 rubles;
• the cost of a monthly travel ticket is 33,000 thousand.

How much does a holiday to Dubai cost?

It’s difficult to call a trip to Dubai budget-friendly, exotic holiday in this heavenly eastern country you will have to pay a large sum.

As always, the price of a flight and a trip depends on the season, the cost of a flight will be cheaper if you fly from the capital (from 13 thousand with transfers), an inexpensive round-trip ticket can be purchased when traveling to the UAE from St. Petersburg, Sochi, Kazan.

Renting a home or staying in a hotel will be a major expense, especially during the high season, which is the autumn months; from May to September prices will drop, however, not all travelers are able to withstand the summer heat of the Emirates.

A modest room for two in a three-star hotel can be rented for 3,000 thousand per day.

In general, for 5 nights for two, taking into account departure from Moscow, you will pay from 65 thousand for 7 days, the average cost of a trip with full board will be from 85 thousand for two.