Friday, July 5, 2024
Dubai, a city renowned for its iconic landmarks especially Burj Khalifa and luxurious lifestyle, harbors several underrated gems that offer unique experiences away from the usual tourist hotspots. As the city continues to evolve and adapt, it remains a beacon of modernity and luxury, attracting millions of visitors each year. Emirates‘ hub, Dubai International Airport (DXB), is the world’s busiest for international travel, connecting 262 destinations across 104 countries, expecting 88.8 million passengers in 2024. Dubai’s proactive approach to visa-free travel, combined with its expanding airline networks boosts tourism.
Dubai has hosted tourists around the globe. Seeing maximum influx from :
India 2,200,345 Oman 1,565,795 Saudi Arabia 1,452,605
United Kingdom 1,245,090 Russia 905,520 USA 704,865
Dubai, a glittering jewel in the Middle East, has long captivated the world with its blend of ultramodern architecture, rich cultural heritage, and luxurious lifestyle. As a global tourism powerhouse, Dubai continually evolves to enhance its appeal to international travelers. Recent developments in visa-free travel, airline expansions, and airport innovations are pivotal in driving the city’s inbound tourism.
The UAE government recently announced new visa-free policies for citizens of countries including the UK, Canada, and Singapore. This move is part of a broader strategy to diversify the economy and bolster tourism. By eliminating visa requirements, Dubai aims to attract more visitors, making it easier for travelers to explore its myriad attractions, from the towering Burj Khalifa to the historical Al Fahidi District. Dubai’s proactive approach to visa-free travel, combined with its expanding airline networks and innovative airport projects, significantly boosts its inbound tourism.
Dubai World Trade Centre attracted 1.54 million attendees in 2023, with 46% being international visitors, showcasing its global appeal and boosting Dubai’s economy significantly.
With its unwavering commitment to enhancing the travel experience, Dubai is set to maintain its status as one of the world’s premier tourism destinations. Dubai’s blend of modernity and tradition, coupled with its wide range of activities and accommodations, makes it a top destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation. Dubai’s human-made islands exemplify the city’s ambition and innovation, offering unique attractions and luxurious experiences that continue to evolve and draw visitors worldwide.
Getting to Dubai is easy, with Dubai International Airport (DXB) being one of the busiest in the world. The newer Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) serves the southern part of the city. Dubai’s human-made islands exemplify the city’s ambition and innovation, offering unique attractions and luxurious experiences that continue to evolve and draw visitors worldwide the airport is set to be serviceable by 2030
Dubai, a city of striking contrasts, showcases a glittering skyline of towering skyscrapers alongside traditional desert landscapes. The city offers modern amenities, luxurious hotels, vibrant souks, and historical abra boats ferrying riders across Dubai Creek. These elements make Dubai an ideal destination for all types of travelers, combining safety, modernity, and cultural richness.
International Travel Expert & Founder in chief TTW highlights Dubai‘s appeal, emphasizing its safety and diverse offerings. “The city, one of the seven emirates in the UAE, has evolved from a desert port to a bustling metropolis with vibrant neighbourhoods, record-setting buildings, and extensive shopping centers. Dubai caters to all budgets, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone. Dubai seamlessly blends fast-paced urban life with serene natural beauty. Visitors can enjoy a day at the beach, explore a desert conservation reserve, and shop at high-end malls. This dynamic mix makes Dubai one of the world’s most interesting cities. “
UPCOMING EVENTS :
AHTS- ACE HOTEL TECH SUMMIT (9TH-10TH JULY)
CHINA VISITOR SUMMIT (5TH-6TH SEPTEMBER )
Experiential Planner Expo
United Medical Tourism Expo international
A Battle of Middle Eastern Giants
In the realm of global travel, Emirates and Qatar Airways are titans, each vying for dominance in the competitive skies. While both airlines boast exceptional service, Emirates continues to be a top choice for business, leisure, and corporate travel, even in the face of impressive innovations from Qatar Airways.
Emirates, based in Dubai, UAE, has built a long-standing reputation for its extensive network and superior in-flight experience. Despite Qatar Airways’ cutting-edge Qsuite and innovative approaches, Emirates maintains a strategic advantage due to its well-established hub in Dubai and consistent service quality. Emirates’ strong brand identity and high-profile marketing campaigns further reinforce its appeal to both business and leisure travelers worldwide.
Dubai, renowned for its futuristic outlook, is undertaking a ground breaking project to create the world’s largest capacity airport. The new Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) is set to be five times larger than DXB, designed to accommodate up to 260 million passengers annually. Over the next decade, operations at DXB will gradually shift to DWC.
The new terminal will feature five parallel runways, 400 aircraft gates, and cutting-edge aviation technologies. It will host leading global companies in logistics and air transport, further enhancing Dubai’s status as a global aviation hub. Once completed, DWC will become the new home for Emirates, Flydubai, and their airline partners.
The $35 billion expansion plan for DWC emerged after analyses showed that DXB could not meet future demand. The upgraded DWC, located 45 km from DXB, will expand from two to five runways and feature new terminal facilities inspired by traditional Bedouin tents. This project is set to transform DWC into the world’s largest airport, replacing DXB as Dubai’s primary air passenger hub.
Despite the pandemic’s impact, DXB saw a remarkable recovery, with passenger traffic increasing by 31.7% in 2022 to 86.9 million, surpassing pre-pandemic levels. Dubai Airports forecasts further growth, expecting 88.8 million passengers in 2024. DXB remains a crucial gateway, with India, Saudi Arabia, the UK, and Pakistan being its top destination countries.
Emirates continues to lead the aviation market with its extensive network, superior service, and strategic hub in Dubai. Dubai and Emirates are poised to continue their dominance in the aviation industry, offering unparalleled travel experiences to passengers worldwide.
For accommodation, Dubai offers some of the world’s best hotels, such as the Armani Hotel Dubai in the Burj Khalifa, the iconic Burj Al Arab, and the Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa. Unique options include the Queen Elizabeth 2, a converted cruise ship, and the boutique XVA Art Hotel.
The UAE’s tourism strategy heavily focuses on luxury hospitality, particularly in Dubai, which boasts over 150 luxury hotels, accounting for 46% of the GCC’s luxury hotel inventory. In 2022, five-star hotel occupancy rates in Dubai reached 70%, reflecting its appeal to high-end travelers. The future growth of the sector is supported by a pipeline dominated by luxury, upper-upscale, and upscale hotels, reinforcing the UAE’s commitment to expanding its luxury tourism segment
Exploring Dubai’s neighbourhoods, such as Old Dubai, Jumeirah Beach Residences, and Downtown Dubai, provides a mix of traditional and modern experiences. Getting around the city is convenient with taxis, the metro, and traditional abra boats.The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months, from November to February, when the weather is cooler.
Dubai’s shopping scene is unmatched, with the world’s largest mall, the Dubai Mall, and the Mall of the Emirates. Traditional souks like the Textile and Gold Souks offer a glimpse into the city’s past.
The Dubai Shopping Festival, held in December and January, offers great deals and entertainment. Stores and brands such as Apple, Sony, Zara, AllSaints, Topshop, West Elm, IDdesign, Jack & Jones, Armani, De Beers, Burberry, Prada, Condotti, Acer, Cross Gold.
Dubai is renowned for its ground breaking architectural feats and human-made islands, masterminded by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum to drive tourism and expand the coastline. The process involves land reclamation, using sand dredged from the Persian and Arabian Gulf floors, and is labor-intensive and costly, which explains why some projects remain unfinished. Here’s a rundown of Dubai’s most famous artificial islands and their current status
Dining in Dubai ranges from the Michelin-recognized Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant to the Syrian Al Farooj Al Shami and the organic Comptoir 102. Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams provides a unique desert dining experience.
TOURIST ATTRACTION SPOTS
Palm Jumeirah and Palm Jebel Ali
Palm Jumeirah, resembling a palm tree, is one of Dubai’s most recognizable landmarks. It features a trunk and 17 fronds surrounded by a crescent-shaped island and hosts luxurious residences and hotels, including Atlantis, The Palm. Visitors can access it via an underwater tunnel or the Palm Monorail. Highlights include The Palm Tower with its observation deck, Nakheel Mall, and skydiving experiences for breathtaking views.
Palm Jebel Ali, a larger counterpart, began construction in 2002 but remains a long-term project. When complete, it will boast waterfront villas, marinas, boardwalks, and beaches, contributing to Dubai’s goal of having 65 miles of sandy shores by 2040.
Dubai Islands
Initially known as Deira Islands, the Dubai Islands project has evolved since its inception in 2004. Now aligned with the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan, the artificial archipelago will span over 4,000 acres across five islands, featuring resorts, cultural hubs, golf courses, and beach clubs. Some properties, like the Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai, are already operational, offering a waterpark and retail experiences at Souk Al Marfa.
The World Islands
Launched in 2003, The World Islands consist of 260 small islands arranged to mimic a world map. The project stalled due to the 2008 financial crisis and erosion issues but was revived by Kleindienst Group in 2014 with The Heart of Europe. Set for completion in 2026, it will feature six islands offering European-inspired luxury. Visitors can stay at the Cote d’Azur Monaco on Main Europe, which boasts a French Riviera-inspired beach and climate-controlled streets.
Bluewaters Island
Opened in 2018 by Meraas Holdings, Bluewaters Island is home to Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, which is currently closed. The island still attracts visitors with its 200 retail and dining options, beach clubs, and attractions like Madame Tussauds Dubai. It is accessible by car or foot via a pedestrian bridge from Jumeirah Beach Residence.
Burj Al Arab
One of Dubai’s iconic luxury hotels, Burj Al Arab, is situated on its own artificial island. Completed in 1999, it stands at 1,053 feet and features a private beach, a helipad convertible into a tennis court or golf driving range, and an outdoor terrace extending over the ocean.
Love Lake
Love Lake, located off Al Qudra Road, 45 minutes from downtown Dubai, is a serene spot perfect for couples and friends. This outdoor haven, best visited between October and April, offers activities like walking, barbecuing, playing outdoor games, and bird-watching. Part of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, it attracts migratory birds such as flamingos, swans, and Egyptian geese, making it a delightful destination for wildlife enthusiasts. The lake’s heart-shaped design, visible from above, adds to its charm.
Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa
Bab Al Shams is a hidden desert oasis offering a tranquil escape from city life. Visitors can enjoy the 360° Nature Brunch picnics, featuring shaded seating, picnic baskets, and views of reem gazelles and Arabian oryx. This destination, just a $30 taxi ride from Dubai Marina, provides a peaceful outdoor meal experience, away from the city’s crowds.
Queen Elizabeth 2
Docked near Dubai’s Gold Souk at Port Rashid, the Queen Elizabeth 2 is a historic ship transformed into a modern hotel and museum. The Heritage Tour offers insights into the ship’s storied past, making it a unique place for a date or to watch the sunset without the typical tourist rush. Although it’s not the Queen Mary 2 featured in “The Parent Trap,” the QE2 still offers a nostalgic experience.
Lebanon Island
Part of Dubai’s World Islands project, Lebanon Island is a secluded beach club accessible only by boat. Despite the overall project’s mixed success, Lebanon Island provides an exclusive getaway with a private beach, restaurant, volleyball court, pool, and events space, offering a rare escape from mainland Dubai.
Arabian Tea House
The Arabian Tea House at the Jumeirah Archaeological Site combines historical exploration with culinary delights. The site, managed by the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority, features artifacts from the Abbasid era. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful meal with karak tea and luqaimat while taking in the serene ambiance, especially at sunset.
Imagine entering a museum that instantly transports you to a world where the future is unveiled before your eyes. This isn’t just a fantasy; it’s the experience awaiting visitors at the Museum of the Future (MOTF) in Dubai. From its striking architecture to its ground breaking exhibitions, the MOTF provides a window into the possibilities of tomorrow.
As you approach the museum, you’re greeted by a stunning blend of nature and innovation. Once inside, you embark on a journey across multiple floors, each dedicated to exploring different aspects of the future. The first three floors take visitors through the realms of space exploration, ecosystem sustainability, bioengineering, and health and wellbeing.
At the Arte Museum, each step you take draws you deeper into an extraordinary journey. The boundaries between reality and imagination blur, inviting you to immerse yourself in the wonders of the Eternal Nature exhibition. This immersive experience captivates visitors, merging artistic expression with futuristic concepts.
Dining under the starlit sky on the finest Mediterranean and Arabic fusion cuisine, accompanied by curated beverages, was a culinary delight. With sustainability at its core, Sonara Camp ensures that every guest has a memorable and eco-friendly experience.
Activities in Dubai are diverse and exciting. Frying Pan Adventures offers food tours to explore the city’s culinary scene. Global Village showcases over 70 cultures, while Ski Dubai provides indoor skiing in the Mall of the Emirates. The Burj Khalifa offers breath taking views, and Royal Shaheen provides interactive falconry experiences.
Deep Dive Dubai, the world’s deepest swimming pool, invites thrill-seekers to experience an underwater adventure like no other. Verified by Guinness World Records, this remarkable pool reaches a depth of 60 meters (197 feet) and holds 14 million liters (3.7 million gallons) of water, nearly the volume of six Olympic-sized swimming pools. Located in Nad Al Sheba, south of Dubai Creek, the pool is designed like a giant oyster, paying homage to the region’s pearl diving history.
Deep Dive Dubai offers a unique underwater experience with features such as a “sunken city” to explore, complete with “abandoned” apartment buildings, an underwater arcade, submerged automobiles, and musical instruments. The facility boasts cutting-edge technology, including the region’s most advanced hyperbaric chamber, a state-of-the-art lighting, sound, and mood system, and a sophisticated filtration system that uses NASA technology, volcanic rock, and UV radiation to circulate the water every six hours.
In addition to underwater activities, Deep Dive Dubai offers on-land attractions, including a facility tour, a gear and gift shop, and large windows and video screens for observing the underwater world. The pool aims to embody the spirit of Emirati explorers and innovators and serves as a platform for future achievements and discoveries. For more information and to book experiences, visitors are encouraged to visit the pool’s website.
ARCHITECTURE MARVEL :
The Address Beach Resort is a 77-story twin-tower structure connected by a skybridge from the 63rd to the 77th floors, which also holds the record for the highest occupiable skybridge floor at 965.7 feet. The resort, which opened in December 2020, features 217 guest rooms and suites, along with 443 furnished residences and 478 unfurnished residences.
Another record-setting pool is set to open in London later this month. The Embassy Gardens will feature a clear-bottomed pool hanging 115 feet in the air, becoming the world’s largest freestanding acrylic pool structure when it opens on May 19.
Dubai is set to unveil one of the world’s most stunning infinity pools atop the soon-to-open Palm Tower. Located on the 50th floor, this infinity pool offers panoramic views of the city and is part of a three-story attraction named “The View at The Palm.” The attraction includes a restaurant on the 51st floor and a public viewing deck on the topmost level, featuring an interactive museum about the skyscraper’s creation.
Dubai has added another remarkable feature to its skyline with the opening of the world’s highest outdoor infinity pool at The Address Beach Resort. Located on the 77th floor, the pool sits 964.2 feet above the ground and has been recognized by Guinness World Records. Spanning 311 feet in length and 54 feet in width, it is almost twice the size of an Olympic pool and offers breath taking views of the city, including iconic landmarks like the Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, and the World Islands, as well as the Ain Dubai Ferris wheel.
“The View at the Palm” combines breath taking views with an interactive, educational experience. Situated almost 700 feet above ground, the pool’s construction faced challenges due to strong winds from the Persian Gulf. Despite these difficulties, the structural work is complete, with final construction expected to finish by the end of the year.
While this infinity pool will be among the highest globally, it won’t break the record held by the Hong Kong Ritz Carlton, whose pool on the 118th floor stands nearly 1,600 feet above street level.
Dubai continues to push architectural boundaries with the construction of Ciel Tower, set to become the world’s tallest hotel at 1,182 feet, surpassing the current record-holder, the Gevora Hotel, which stands at 1,168 feet. Scheduled to open by 2023, Ciel Tower will feature 1,209 luxury suites and residences, along with a glass observation deck complete with a rooftop pool, a spa, and several restaurants. The tower’s construction began in 2016 in the bustling Marina district, known for its skyscrapers and even a zip line attraction.
To secure the title of “world’s tallest hotel,” Ciel Tower must be entirely dedicated to hospitality. As the opening date approaches, developers will seek official recognition from Guinness World Records to confirm its status. Despite its impressive height, Ciel Tower will still fall short of the world’s highest hotel, the Rosewood Guangzhou, which occupies the top 39 floors of the 1,739-foot CTF Finance Centre in China.
Ciel Tower will also be dwarfed by Dubai’s tallest structure, the Burj Khalifa, which reaches a staggering 2,717 feet. However, even the Burj Khalifa’s record is under threat from the upcoming Dubai Creek Tower, which is expected to achieve a world-record height of 4,265 feet upon completion. The exact height of Dubai Creek Tower will remain a secret until its grand opening, ensuring it holds the title for as long as possible.
Visitors to Dubai can experience this marvel while also exploring the city’s rich history. Balancing modernity with tradition, a visit to Dubai Creek or nearby archaeological sites provides a glimpse into the city’s past, well before the oil boom of the 1990s.
Tags: Airline News, Burj Khalifa, Business Travel, china, dubai shopping festival, Dubai Travel News, DXB airport, Emirates, gulf cooperation council, Hotel News, international travel news, luxury travel, palm jumeirah, Qatar Airways, ritz carlton, saudi arabia, Tourism, travel industry, Travel News, UAE, UK, usa, Visa Free news, Visa free travel
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