THE CITY of Dubai keeps reinventing its tourist attractions and that’s one of the factors that draws repeat visitors to the emirate. For those looking to discover new aspects of Dubai beyond the glitzy malls and the ubiquitous desert safaris, there are many interesting options—all reflecting the changing face of Dubai and its multi-cultural populace.
Dubai is fast emerging as a hotspot for musical performances across all genres. Blended music festival has been inviting international artists to perform at the Media City Amphitheatre grounds. This year’s line-up included Robin Thicke and Kool & the Gang. The arrangements were impressive—while a majority of the audience enjoyed the concert in a picnic-like atmosphere on the grounds, there was also a VIP lounge area, where guests were provided complementary food and drinks. There were food trucks and stalls as well, as a primarily expatriate crowd caught up with friends and enjoyed a Friday evening of music and fun.
For those interested in arts, Alserkal Avenue is the place to be. The whole area comprises of art studios and galleries that encourage homegrown talent. Art and craft lovers can find better bargains here than in the high-end galleries of Dubai International Financial Centre. There are, in fact, 20 art galleries in the vicinity. A4 Space is the main meeting point for artists. Every three months, they organise a pop-up sale of their creations. For those looking to buy something eclectic, these sales are perfect opportunities to pick up interesting creations from the field of fashion to jewellery design. It is also very different from the usual mall experience that is synonymous with Dubai.
Those who have never had the chance to go on a seaplane tour of Dubai, must not miss the Seawings tour the next time they are heading for the emirate. The eight-seater planes gives a window view to every passenger. The panoramic aerial views of Dubai and its development in real sense give an insight into the soul of the city, as it stretches out before you during the 25-minute Dubai Creek Silver Tour. From the imposing Burj Al Arab to World Islands, the tour is a breathtaking experience. With prices starting from $407, the luxury aerial sightseeing tour, operated by Seawings, does not come cheap, but the experience is absolutely worth it.
Despite being a modern global city, heritage is at the heart of Dubai’s culture. From the restored Al Bastakiya area to the still-thriving gold souk and spice market, centuries-old traditions have been preserved for modern-day visitors to admire and appreciate. When Dubai was a custom-free zone, many Iranians settled in Al Bastakiya—an old Iranian village—mostly trading in textile and food. The wealthy Iranian merchants built Al Bastakiya village with 60 homes.
The textile souk was also restored. An abra (water taxi) ride takes visitors to the spice and gold souks here.
Gourmet capital
Over the years, Dubai has emerged as a gourmet capital in the region. For a city that takes great pride in its cosmopolitan culture that has embraced as many as 200 nationalities, the world of cuisines is also as diverse and rich. While Rib Room in Jumeirah Zabeel Saray offers mouth-watering steaks, Nobu at Atlantis The Palm is perhaps the best Japanese restaurant in the city, serving creations of legendary chef Nobu Matsuhisa. For a quick lunch, one of the perfect dining options is the buffet offering at Deli in Armani Hotel, Downtown Dubai.
Alta Badia at Jumeirah Emirates Towers is a leading Italian restaurant in the emirate. Named after a ski resort in Dolomites, the restaurant is located on the 50th floor of the hotel. It does not just offer authentic food from the heart of Italy, but also spectacular views of Dubai city. Another restaurant, Qbara, is an interesting dining venue, not just because of the food—Arabesque cuisine with a modern twist—but also because of its fascinating interiors. Having won many design awards, the restaurant is a must-visit for its excellent food and unique ambience.
At the top
The highest outdoor observation deck in the world is located at, not surprisingly, the tallest building in the world: Burj Khalifa. At The Top, Burj Khalifa SKY is located at level 148 in Burj Khalifa. Adding to the experience is the element of luxury and hospitality that so typifies Dubai. The entrance to At The Top is from inside The Dubai Mall. A briefing session is conducted in At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY lounge, where visitors are offered dates, sweets and Arabic coffee.
Audio guides are handed over by guest ambassadors, who escort visitors to special high-speed elevators that take them to level 148. It is a thrilling moment for visitors to look down at the city sprawled before them from the 555-m-high observation deck. Here also, hospitality has been incorporated at the heart of the whole experience, as guests can relax for some time in the luxurious lounge, sample delectable Arabic sweets and sip refreshing mint lime cooler. Level 125 is at 456 m and houses A Falcon’s Eye View experience. One of the highlights is the exhibition on the ground floor, which gives behind-the-scene stories of how Burj Khalifa was built. There are giant posters of the teams, who made the vision possible. It is a proud moment to see many Indian names and faces among them.
