Offering a distinct blend of modern city and timeless desert, with a holiday to Dubai you’ll get to enjoy all the comforts and convenience of the Western world while experiencing the unique beauty and charm of Arabia. Home to the world’s tallest building; a 7 star hotel; indoor ski-ing and super gigantic shopping malls, it’s fair to say that if it’s not in Dubai, it probably doesn’t exist! The people are friendly, the sun shines year round and the food’s outstanding. As an exotic destination with a cosmopolitan lifestyle, Dubai promises a totally unique holiday experience.
When to go
Being a desert state, Dubai gets constant sunshine pretty much all year long. From October to April in particular, you’re guaranteed perfect beach weather. During the summer months temperatures can hike up to the late 40’s, so doing any outdoor activities might be tough going. On the upside, it’s the cheapest time of year to go with hotels offering some fantastic deals!
Tip: Don’t forget about Ramadan when you’re booking your holiday. During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public places is prohibited until after Sunset. This usually doesn’t apply in hotels, but it applies everywhere else. The date of Ramadan changes each year and in 2014 takes place from June 29th to July 27th. Despite its limitations, some people actually prefer going to Dubai during Ramadan as tourist attractions and nightclubs are quieter, and many shops offer fantastic discounts.
Where to stay
The most iconic place to stay is undoubtedly the Burj Al Arab. Dubbed the world’s first seven-star hotel, this property just epitomizes 
luxury and grandeur! It offers extravagance and indulgence the likes of which you’ve never experienced! Airport transfers by Mercedes, helicopter tours, a personal butler to wait on you hand and foot, and even a pillow menu for your bed to ensure the best sleep of your life!
But if the Burj Al Arab is a bit too exorbitant, then the Al Manzil is a great alternative. A gorgeously stylish Arabesque hotel, this is another property which offers impeccable service and beautiful contemporary decor. With its central location, the Al Manzil is also ideal for shopaholics – the Mall of Dubai is a mere five-minute walk away.
Tip: If staying at the Al Manzil, ask for a room with a Burj Khalifa view. At night-time, it’s simply breathtaking. At the Burj Al Arab, all of the rooms have really great views, but if you can afford it, the panoramic rooms are fabulous.
Shopping in Dubai
It’s impossible to talk about Dubai and not mention the shopping. Its two main shopping malls – Mall of the Emirates and the Dubai Mall – defy imagination. Pick a brand – any brand – and you’re guaranteed to find it here. Better still are the quirky extras you’ll find should you desire a break from your shopping splurge. In the Dubai Mall, there’s a massive ice skating rink. Within Mall of the Emirates is a ski-resort wonderland (yes, really).
For more traditional Dubai shopping, make sure you check out the souks – the glittering gold markets with great knock-offs on designer
purses and jewellery. Even better are the spice souks full of aromatic spices, sumptuous dates, silks and delicacies of every kind.
Tip: Don’t accept the first price offered to you at the souks. Haggling is the name of the game here. The merchants are eager to sell and they’ll strive to match your price, so long as it’s reasonable.
Eating
Whether it’s five-star cuisine or tasty cheap eats, foodies are spoilt for choice in Dubai. For fine dining of the highest order, visit Table 9 at the Hilton Dubai Creek. Voted the number one restaurant in the Middle East, expect mouthwatering food and stunning views. For the more budget conscious, take a stroll down Al Dhiyafah Road where you can indulge in a diverse range of food from Lebanon, Iran and India.
Tip: Go to a bubblicious brunch at the Westin Hotel. For €100 you’ll get unlimited food and wine for around four hours (for €130 you’ll get unlimited champagne). It’s not cheap but it is exceptional. This is the ultimate feast for your senses.
Dubai’s sights & attractions
There’s just so much to see in Dubai. The Burj Khalifa is the most obvious attraction – at 828m it’s the world’s tallest building! Other must-sees are the Wild Waldi Water Park, and the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. in the Dubai Mall. But one of the best things you could do on your holiday would be to go on a desert safari. With dune bashing and Arabian campsite barbecues, it’ll be the highlight of your trip!
Tip: Book your ticket in advance to go see the Burj Khalifa, rather than leaving it to the day. It’s cheaper, but more importantly, it means you can book your time slot. Around sunset is ideal as, not only do you get a fabulous view of the city as the sun goes down, but you’ll get the best photos of both day and night.
How to book
Check out ClickandGo Holidays for great deals on holidays from Ireland to Dubai including direct flights from Dublin with Emirates, transfers and a choice of accommodation to suit all tastes and budgets.
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