Some say Dubai is synonymous with new-age modern luxury, while others believe visiting this fashion capital – which has risen as a global metropolis since the millennium and become a hub for business, technology, finance, and tourism in the Middle East – is a once-in-a-life-time must. Dubai is the second-largest city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and when you are in this country, you can easily sense the fusion of old and new urban landscapes, the convergence of Eastern and Western cultures, the stark contrast between classical tradition and modern civilization, as well as the surreal overlay of endless deserts and a modern cityscape. The city’s conflicting beauty is not contradictory but rather reveals a uniquely fashionable national character within a mysterious Arabian ambiance.
Dreams have no limits — set yourself a goal in 2017 and give yourself the chance to visit this paradise full of ultimate luxury charm and passion.
★ Top Five Must-Visit Attractions in Dubai
#1?The Largest Mosque in the Arab World – Sheikh Zayed Mosque
This mosque features an elegant, pure white yet majestic grand exterior, built from Italian marble, with its vast courtyard paved with mosaic tiles adorned with floral motifs. Inside the prayer hall, you’ll find seven massive chandeliers encrusted with Swarovski crystals, dazzling brilliantly.
The prayer hall also houses the world’s largest hand-woven Persian carpet, spanning 5,700 square meters, meticulously crafted over two years by thousands of Iranian women.
#2 The World’s Largest Mall – Dubai Mall
Whether or not you’re a shopping enthusiast, when in Dubai, you must visit this colossal modern shopping mall, which gathers numerous retail and entertainment options and is hailed as the largest of its kind in the Middle East. It boasts countless shops, luxury brands, 1,200 retail outlets, over 150 dining venues, an indoor theme park, an ice rink, 22 cinemas, and is most famous for housing the world’s largest indoor aquarium.
#3 The World’s Tallest Musical Fountain – Dubai Fountain
This dancing fountain is about one-quarter larger than the Bellagio Hotel fountain in Las Vegas. The water basin covers an area equivalent to two football fields, with water jets reaching up to 22,000 gallons per shot — water columns as high as about 50 stories (approximately 490 feet).
Every 20 minutes, synchronized with enchanting music and over 6,000 colorful lights, it performs a spectacular aquatic ballet. The stunning audiovisual experience delivers a crescendo of drama and attracts thousands of visitors to Dubai each year.
#4 The World’s Tallest Building – Burj Khalifa
In ancient Arabic, "Khalifa" refers to the leader of the Islamic empire. Standing at 828 meters with 169 floors, it is 320 meters taller than Taipei 101 and currently the tallest building in the world. Reaching the observation deck on the 124th floor takes just a minute, where the view below resembles a miniature world map. Of course, watching the sunset over the golden desert from here is also an unforgettable experience.
#5 The World’s Largest Indoor Theme Park – Ferrari World
The entire park is indoors, designed with the concept inspired by the classic side curves of Ferrari GT racing cars. It offers attractions categorized into three difficulty levels suitable for all age groups – Family, Kids, and Thrill – with a total of 19 rides.
The park also includes a display area for classic Ferrari models, six restaurants, and two shopping malls, satisfying the visual senses of Ferrari fans from around the world while providing them with the ultimate thrill of Ferrari racing.
★ Top Three Highest-Rated Hotels in Dubai
#1?Grosvenor House Hotel and Apartments
The hotel is located in Dubai Marina, offering panoramic views of the entire Dubai Marina area, and has been rated as one of the best-located accommodation options in Dubai. It provides personalized butler service, an outdoor pool, a variety of exotic cuisines, a fitness center, a nightclub, a children’s pool, and more. In addition, guests can enjoy a range of spa treatments that thoroughly relax the body and mind on-site. They also have access to the beach, swimming pools, and other facilities at the sister hotel, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa. All suites are equipped with BVLGARI brand toiletries, deep soaking bathtubs, and rain shower facilities, while some rooms feature balconies. Whether in terms of room design or entertainment amenities, this hotel caters to the needs of any guest.
Overall guest ratings from around the world: 9.8/10 (Great bar, delicious restaurants, large and comfortable beds)
#2 Jumeirah Beach Hotel
As one of the landmarks of Dubai and a top choice for accommodation in the city, this hotel features spacious and modern room designs with a variety of styles to suit different needs. Rooms are equipped with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Staying at this luxurious five-star resort allows guests to unwind in privacy on the secluded Chicago Beach, while enjoying a full range of spa experiences including daytime spa treatments and Turkish steam baths. The property also boasts luxury amenities such as a rooftop lounge, poolside bars, over 16 dining outlets, and six swimming pools. For families, there is unlimited free access to the Wild Wadi Waterpark water park, children’s club, English squash courts, tennis courts, and more.
Overall guest ratings from around the world: Superb 9.2/10 (Stunning beach views, wide variety of dining options)
#3 Atlantis The Palm
This hotel features the largest water park in the Middle East, with a variety of thrilling water slides, shark encounters, an underwater aquarium, and mazes guaranteed to delight children. Adults can opt for booked Dubai city tours, or sightseeing by boat or helicopter.
Elegant rooms are decorated in Arabic and ocean-inspired styles, with some featuring private scenic balconies, oversized terraces with panoramic views of The Palm and the Arabian Gulf, and bathrooms equipped with oversized spa bathtubs. Guests staying in underwater suites can enjoy a romantic holiday surrounded by marine life, while also taking in the spectacular views of the legendary lost city of Atlantis.
Overall guest ratings from around the world: Superb 9.0/10 (Amazing beach, great balcony views, fun lazy river)
#HotelsCombined Special Contributor - Li Sanyi
Original text from:Dreams are no longer out of reach — head to the new paradise of luxury — the fashion capital of the Middle East, Dubai