Dubai After Dark: Unforgettable Experiences Await

The modern skyscrapers of Dubai make it the perfect destination for the rich and famous. However, people from all over the world come here to enjoy its many shopping malls, souks, parks, beaches, and much more on a budget too!

There are so many features unique to Dubai alone, such as being the city with the largest suspended aquarium. In the Emirates Mall, you can find a massive indoor skiing arena, and its IMG World of Adventure is the largest theme park in the world!

Complete your Emirates booking to reach Dubai from your country's capital city or any key metro city close to you and enjoy a fun-filled vacation time with your family. It is not just wonderful to explore during the daytime but also at night when it comes alive with glowing lights. Here is a look at some exciting ways to spend your time at night in this bustling city:

1) The best way to enjoy fantastic light effects at night in Dubai is by visiting the Dubai Garden Glow. It has some very interesting optical illusions, which make exploring it so exciting. There are many illuminated, brightly coloured scenes here that are striking, enchanting, and lovely.

2) Make a trip to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, right after 6 p.m. Make a trip to its highest floors, from where you can enjoy a panoramic view of the city at night, with surrounding skyscrapers and the city lit up. As you leave the place, you can see the fountain, which glows exotically in many lights and is also the stage for numerous performances.

3) If you love sports, then visiting Dubai’s Dark Padel courts is just what you need. Padel is a new and fast-catching sport that you can best enjoy at night under illuminating neon lights in the play area. Everything gets transformed into such colours, and the sport played in such lighting is exciting and fantastic.

4) In the Dubai Festival City Mall stands a fountain that is the centre stage for fantastic laser light shows every night, which are free to watch. It’s a scene that has impressed many enough to get an entrance into the Guinness World Record twice.

5) Make a trip to the Dubai Fishing Harbour and find the Crystal Clear Watersports Centre to enjoy kayaking at night. You will be kayaking in a glass-bottomed kayak that is lit by beautiful fairy lights. You can also view the impressive skyline at night with all its lights lit up, making a grand scene.



6) Cool at the ice rink in the Dubai Mall, where you can spend hours with friends on skates. It’s open on Friday and Saturday, and it's always filled with people sitting and enjoying themselves with their friends and family.



7) Make a visit to The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah, where you can take a ride on an electric catamaran. Their cruise is indeed exciting as you get to see the Dubai skyline from the waters and also enjoy the Palm Fountain when it is all lit up and impressively shooting water to about 105 metres high.

8) If you are into photography, then you certainly would want to indulge in night photography across the beautiful Dubai skyline. Gulf Photo Plus offers the opportunity to do this through its night photography workshop. You will be taken to various attractions that can be photographed under dazzling lights in different ways.



9) Book an Abra ride across Dubai Creek and enjoy viewing the lovely Dubai skyline. As the night progresses, you can see so many places lit up with different coloured lights, and the entire scene is a must to photograph.

10) How about indulging in a desert safari that gives many experiences such as quad biking, camel riding, barbeque dinners, and sand skiing? The companies that offer such experiences will pick you up at your location in the afternoon and then drop you off the next morning.

You can enjoy exploring such locations at night by opting to fly with Emirates Airlines from your country. Once you have arrived, book into a hotel and pick up those places that you must visit at night to have an exciting time here. These places can be easily reached by cab, and when you get there, you will have a fabulous experience that leaves behind lasting memories.

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All that you need to know about the new UAE visa reforms

Travelling to the UAE has become much simpler with the newest reforms made by the UAE government. Now you can take a luxurious trip to Dubai and the other Emirates in a more relaxed way, since the 60 days visa is finally here! The year 2022 saw a lot of changes being made to the visa reforms for the UAE as well as its residents. It is all about lesser working hours, extended stays for the investors and entrepreneurs coming to the UAE, and a lot more! Below, you can find out more about the 4 major reforms announced by the UAE government in 2022 that you should know about.

New Visa Schemes

A newly expanded golden visa program, a new 5-year green visa, multiple tourist visas, and an on-demand employment permit are among the many immigration changes introduced by the United Arab Emirates government in 2022. These can be considered the primary entry and exit visa changes in the history of the UAE.

Under these new reforms, investors and entrepreneurs worldwide can apply for a business visa without needing a sponsor or host. Furthermore, the new 5-year tourist visa does not require a sponsor anymore. It lets the visa holder stay in the UAE for 90 days, their stay can be extended for another 90 days. Temporary work visas have been introduced for foreign workers - those coming to work in the UAE on probation or project-based work.

Study/Training Visa: This visa type is for individuals or students who want to attend any educational course, training, or internship program. The student or training visa can be sponsored by academic and research institutions in the public and private sectors.

Family Visa: Formerly, parents could only sponsor their children under the age of 18 years. However, with the new reforms coming into effect, male children can now be sponsored for up to 25 years. Children having any kind of disabilities are also eligible to receive special rights. Furthermore, unmarried daughters can be supported by their parents indefinitely.

Work Visa: This is introduced for individuals searching for better job opportunities within the UAE. This visa does not require a sponsor or a host. It will be granted to individuals with a Bachelor's degree or its equivalent, recent graduates from the world's top 500 universities, and those who are recognized as first, second or third skill levels according to the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation.

Green Visa: The green visa is issued to skilled workers, freelance workers, self-employed people, etc. This five-year visa lets its holders bring their families to the UAE without requiring a sponsor or an employer. Other requirements include a Bachelor's degree or equivalent and a minimum salary of AED 15,000.

Golden Visa: The UAE has announced a 10-year golden visa for many professionals and investors. This includes people investing "Dh2 million plus" in the real estate market, scientists, skilled workers, extraordinary students, talent-filled artists, and entrepreneurs.

Workers Reforms

No more stressing about lock-in periods with your employer contract! The United Arab Emirates government has abolished the 3-year cap on fixed-term employment contracts. Now it will allow the employer and employee to decide on the length of time they want to work together.

From October, the validity of the free local visa issued in the United Arab Emirates was reduced from 3 to 2 years. The grace period for leaving the country of UAE to have a residence visa cancelled has increased from 30 days to 60 to 180 days in most cases, depending on the type of visa.

From February 2022, workers can choose part-time work in addition to their primary job under the new labour law without requiring permission from their employer. They only need a part-time work permit and ensure they only work 144 hours every three weeks to avoid burnout and keep themselves healthy and safe.

Another great news is that now workers can change jobs more quickly because the new law prohibits employers from withholding workers' permits and forcing them to leave the country when the employment relationship ends. Instead, workers will be allowed to stay in the country and change their job. Employers will also be liable to make all the payments for recruitment costs without deducting any charges directly or indirectly from the employee's end.

4-Day Workweek

A good news for those who have always wished for their weekends to be longer! From January 1, 2022, the United Arab Emirates has shortened the work week and changed the weekend for the public sector. The work week has been changed from Monday to Thursday, with Friday being a half day. Official working hours are 7:30 am to 3:30 pm, Monday to Thursday and noon on Fridays. However, Sharjah has shifted to just a 4-day work week from January 1, with Friday, Saturday and Sunday making up the new weekend.

Emiratisation Law

The United Arab Emirates Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MoHRE) has made it compulsory for firms that have 50 or more employees that 2% of the company's qualified employees must be Emiratis. This will increase by 2% annually, reaching 10% by 2026. If this target is not met, a penalty of AED 6,000 per month will be collected from January 2023 for every Emirati who has not been hired. This would cost a firm AED 72,000 per year. The fine will be increased by AED 1,000 per year. Additionally, the fee levied as a fine will be more for bigger firms with more than 100 or more employees.

These were the 4 new reforms the UAE government made in 2022. We would like to see more such reforms into general laws of the government that will take the economy of the UAE to the next level and make this country every investor's go-to choice of land for their investments!

About The Author

Robeena Brown is a travel blogger & destination expert living in UAE and works for local tourism companies like Arabiers. If you have been looking forward to touring Dubai, getting a visa, extending your stay, and exploring the city, you can follow her on social media.

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Top 10 places to visit on your next trip to Dubai

If you see photos of Dubai taken from space, it looks like a piece of glittering jewellery in the dark. This City of Future, in the United Arab Emirates is fast becoming an exporter of science and technology to the world. Even though it may seem like all malls and air-conditioning, this is a desert city that has a stirring influx of cultural institutions, galleries as well as shopping complexes that are aimed at attracting a new generation of visitors. This Arab city is filled with endless adventure and fun activities, making it the ideal location for experiencing fun, thrill, and entertainment on your holidays.

If you are still thinking about applying for a Dubai visa, check out the following points that will give you all the reasons to satisfy your wanderlust in Dubai.

Dubai Frame

This stunning architecture portrays a metaphorical connection between the old and new city. The Dubai frame is said to be the largest picture frame in the world, a giant structure of a gold frame standing 500 feet tall with striking glass lifts that take tourists to the top. Tourists are allowed to walk on the clear glass walkway across the entire 313-foot width.

Burj Khalifa

One of the most renowned skyscrapers, Burj Khalifa (829.8m) is the tallest building in the world. It is said that a trip to Dubai is incomplete without visiting this marvel of architecture. At the heart of the city, this tallest freestanding structure in the world shouldn't be missed by any chance. The interesting part is you can go to the top observation deck on the 124^th floor to enjoy the aerial view of the city from such a height.

Global Village

This is a theme park that can not only entertain a little kid, but also a man in his sixties. This massive park is very popular among people and is considered the ideal destination for a family day out. Filled with concerts, dining, attractions, and rides around the world, it’s the perfect place to spend a great time with your friends and family members.

XLine Dubai Marina

Have you heard of the XLine Dubai? Get the chance to fly belly-down across skyscrapers, highways, and swimming pools across the city of Dubai with XLine Dubai. This is one of the steepest, longest, and fastest urban zip lines in the world. If you are an adventure seeker, book the best Dubai packages that include this thrilling ride that you will remember forever.

Ski Dubai

Another place to add to your bucket list is Ski Dubai. It's the largest indoor ski slope in the world that offers a unique experience even to the professionals in this field.

Dubai Aquarium

If you're visiting Dubai, make sure you're not missing out on the great Dubai Aquarium. With 140 colourful fish and other sea species, there are high chances that you will never see such a great aquarium like this again. Holding 10 million litres of water, it also has one of the largest collections of sand sharks in the world.

Burj Al-Arab



Even though its height is much lower than the Burj Khalifa, the Burj Al-Arab is the tallest hotel in the world at a height of 321 metres. Situated in its dedicated island, this architectural marvel reflects the traditional dhow in full sail. Dhow is a kind of merchant ship operating around the emirate for centuries now. At nightfall, it becomes a kaleidoscope of colours – a must-watch for someone visiting Dubai for the first time.

Deira



There is no dearth of interesting places to visit when you’re in Dubai. That being said, not visiting Deira will be a huge miss when you are travelling to this Arab city. It's an area of twisting roads as well as home to a melee of people and cultures. Located on the northern side of the city, Deira is known for its various points of interest, a reason why tourists throng the streets of this place all the time.

The Dubai Fountain



The Dubai fountain falls on the list of the top ten places to visit in Dubai because it's one of its kind when its illuminated jet moves in time based on renowned musical pieces. Whether you are travelling with family or alone, on a business or pleasure trip, it's a must-see place to see when you're in the city.

Dubai Creek



A significant part of Dubai that holds both the ancient and modern culture together, Dubai Creek is the place that separates the city from Deira. If you want to know how it all began before Dubai was so popular in the world, visiting this place should be on your list of the best places to go in Dubai.

On top of these ten best places to visit in Dubai, there are also various adventures that you would love to experience like a helicopter ride, skydiving, camel safari, and so on. So book your flight tickets fast and stay prepared to experience the adventure of a lifetime at the City Of Gold.

Note: The photographs in this article have been borrowed from wikipedia.org under the Creative Commons license. Each photograph has been linked to its host page on wikipedia.org.

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UAE road trip guide

If you have been to UAE a couple of times and think that you have experienced the best of the destinations, well, think again. You truly haven’t seen the best of the UAE if you have not been on a road trip in this stunning country.

Just book a great flight with Air Arabia and plan a great trip with your loved ones. Embark on a road trip to explore and vacation at some super clichéd place.

Here is a list of the top drive destinations across the Emirates.

Drive to Al Qudra

This is a short road trip and will take you just 45 minutes to reach Al Qudra, where you can plan a day full of fun and frolic with your family. This region has grown increasingly popular because of wildlife spotting and scenic views. Spot some rare bird species, and you might see the Arabian Oryx. Do not come back until you have seen the sunset.

Drive to Khasab



Take this enchanting road trip of about two and a half hours, and you will love the smooth drive. Plan a weekend getaway from Dubai in this beautiful city in Oman, which is also famous as the Norway of the Middle East’ because of its multiple fjords. Spend the time here exploring the Oman Fjords, Khasab Castle, and Khasab Fort.

Drive to Fujairah



Fujairah is about one and a half an hour drive away, and the road trip is simply loved because of the spectacular views and the scenic routes. This is just the right destination to explore with your friends and family as there are numerous activities to enjoy such as fishing, sailing, snorkelling, and deep-sea diving.

Drive to Jebel Hafeet



If you want to drive to a mountainside destination in UAE, just head for Jebel Hafeet, which is just a two-hour drive away. The winding drive takes you to the top of the Hajar mountain range, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding. Explore the region to learn about its ancient history and spend some time with nature.

Drive to Dibba



Dibba is another popular spot among road trippers, and the getaway is about one and a half hour’s drive away. Enjoy the panoramic and laid-back pace of life here and explore the UAE’s east coast. Laze on the beaches and find a perfect spot for diving. You can even take dhow cruises into Musandam.

Drive to Sharjah



Sharjah is about a 40-minute drive from Dubai, and the road trip will take you to the Ghost Town’ or ‘the Buried Village.’ It is a great spot for seasoned explorers and is sure to appeal to nature lovers and photographers. The trip would take you back to the mysterious past of the city with picturesque mosques and houses adorned with mosaic tiles and decorative wallpaper.

Road trips are indeed a great way to spend some quality time together with your loved ones. And if you are in the UAE, those trips become all the more memorable and amazing excuse of the unique experiences and destinations.

Note: Some of the pictures in this post are courtesy of wikipedia.org and have been borrowed under the creative commons license. Each borrowed picture has been linked to its host page on wikipedia.

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Discover the Arabian History - Top Historical Places to Visit in UAE

The United Arab Emirates have become a prominent destination for luxury lifestyle and superlative tourist attractions over the last two decades. However, behind this sophisticated world, lies a humble and deeply rooted culture that are still meticulously preserved and cherished. Discover the rustic charms of the UAE and take a trip to an era that existed long before the country got swarmed with rising skyscrapers and luxury malls. Here’s a peek into the best historical places of UAE one should definitely visit on their UAE trip.

Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai


The Al Fahidi Fort in Dubai is said to be the oldest existing building in Dubai. It was built to stock artillery and weapons and as a prison for defaulters. Located at the south of Dubai Creek, the fort now houses the Dubai museum that offers a glimpse into the bygone eras of Dubai’s traditional lifestyle. A visit to the fort offers visitors a chance to get acquainted with Dubai’s heritage as it is now home to some of the unique collection of authentic paintings, dioramas and antique assortments of pottery, weapons and other tools. The attraction lets you comprehend Dubai’s extraordinary progress from a modest settlement to a pioneering modern city.

Hatta Heritage Village, Hatta Mountains


Get a gist of an Emirati village at the Hatta Heritage Village. Sprawling at the foothills of Hatta mountainous region, this restored settlement is one of the oldest traditional mountain village sites of UAE. The entire village, right from the architecture to the interiors is made out of locally used materials of Bedouin era. Located at the outskirts of Dubai, this also happens to be a popular offbeat excursion for Dubai visitors.

Al Bidya Mosque, Fujairah


Known as the oldest mosque of UAE, Al Bidya Mosque or the Ottoman Mosque is a simple mud and brick structure consisting of the main hall and four domes made in simple geometrical patterns. The exact date of the mosque’s construction is unknown but it is still a functional place to offer prayers. Located at Dibba village in Fujairah, a visit lets you appreciate its simplicity as well as enjoy the sweeping panoramas of the Hajar Mountains and the nearby Persian Gulf.

Al Bastakiya, Dubai


Sometimes, it is quite hard to fathom that Dubai was once a simple village settlement that consisted of trade merchants, pearl divers, and fishermen. However, if you visit the Al Bastakiya neighbourhood in Dubai, you will get the exact idea of Dubai’s humble settlements. Away from glitz and chaos of the modern city, this sleepy township filled with earthy toned buildings, serene Arabian courtyards and winding alleys are a soothing retreat to visit. A stroll through these narrow lanes reminds you of the simple lifestyle of Dubai locals before its surge to be a global metropolitan. Al Bastakiya is one of the historical places to visit in UAE that should be on your Dubai travel bucket list.

Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization


Here’s a UAE attraction that offers you everything you need to know about Islam. This stunning museum located at Sharjah’s scenic Corniche Street flanked by the on the Majarrah Waterfront offers you an insight into the Arabian culture and has over 5000 Islamic artefacts from all over the world which includes scriptures, calligraphy, carvings, handiworks, paintings to name a few. One of the main attractions not to be missed is the zodiac mosaic in the huge central dome.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi


An iconic landmark in Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an absolute beauty to watch and a popular attraction to visit in Abu Dhabi. The grandeur and splendour of the architecture will leave you awe-struck. This majestic mosque sprawling 1,380 feet is the largest mosque in UAE and can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers. This white pure white marble structure accentuated with touches of gleaming golden designs will catch your attention with its sheer simple beauty. Inside the mosque, you will be surrounded with grand crystal chandeliers, intricately woven carpets, intricate designs with semi-precious stones and marble mosaics. The courtyard leading to the mosque is considered to be etched with the largest marble mosaic in the world. The mosque is a beautiful blend of traditional and modern Islamic architecture and looks mesmerizingly beautiful when illuminated during the night.

Qasr Al Hosn Fort, Abu Dhabi

This fort is a popular and one of the oldest landmarks of Abu Dhabi. Known as the White Fort, this structure with conical towers was first built as a watchtower to protect Abu Dhabi’s one and only fresh water well. Later, it became the abode of the ruling family. Today, it is a national monument and is a place for cultural discovery. The fort lets you journey through the life of Arabian artisans and the rich history of the country. Qasr Al Hosn Festival is an 11-day festival held annually where you can enjoy art, music and live performances showcasing UAE’s heritage.

Hili Archaeological Park, Abu Dhabi


Located in Al Ain in Abu Dhabi, Hili Archaeological Park takes you back into the bronze age. Declared as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this archaeological site dates back to Umm an-Nar period (about 2500 BCE to 2000 BCE) is the largest bronze age site in UAE. The exhibits comprise of early settlements, tombs, and underground water canals. All these archaeological sites have been integrated into a verdant, well-manicured landscaped garden dotted with fountains and green plants which makes it an ideal spot to enjoy a quiet time amid nature and history.



These attractions are a great way to understand that UAE is more than just sophisticated cities and opens up a new window of new experiences and knowledge for UAE visitors. So next time you apply for Dubai visa online and plan your Dubai tip, expand your vision to its neighbouring emirates as well and journey through its cultural experiences. The seamless blend of modernity with traditional heritage will make your UAE travel experience worth cherishing a lifetime.

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Best 6 Exceptionally Romantic Destinations around the World to Visit in 2019

For a romantic sojourn, the options are endless in the world. In fact, every country has few hotspots that it uses to promote it as a romantic destination. But, when all you think about is secluded serenity amid breath taking panoramas or a dreamlike location to sway away your sweetheart and awaken warm, fuzzy feelings, then certain destinations ace every component of a quixotic ambiance. One such destination is Maldives which is certainly the top choice for any honeymoon traveller or romantic couples. Apart from this, here are our top 6 romantic destinations which we feel have unique combinations of elements for an exceptional romantic holiday.

1) Dubai, United Arab Emirates



Dubai never ceases to amaze its visitors. Though the emirate is popularly known for its iconic architectural structures and futuristic concepts, there are plenty of places to see and things to do in Dubai for couples and newlyweds.  Discover the beauty of Dubai desert on an early morning hot air balloon ride.  Spend your evenings watching illuminated vistas of Dubai skyline on a Dubai Dhow Cruise at Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina. Dine at Burj Khalifa’s Atmosphere or Madeleine Café & Boulangerie while enjoying charming views of the beautiful Dubai Fountain. If you are looking for luxury experiences, definitely you won't find opulence anywhere else as you would find in Dubai. Spoil your beloved with a stay in an underwater suite in Atlantis the Palm, spend a  night in the solace of the silent desert and starry skies at chic desert resorts or experience luxury at the finest at the most luxurious hotel in the world - Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Whatever experience you choose, Dubai assures you that it will be some of the most memorable moments of your life.

2) Zermatt, Switzerland

Serene ambiances, stunning natural vistas and a hint of adventure welcome you at Zermatt. A stroll through this quaint village dotted with Swiss chalets, shops and cafes nestled at the foot of wintry mountainous terrain feels incredibly romantic. Zermatt is also completely car-free which means you are far away from bustling sounds of the modern world and can have nonchalant strolls in calm surrounds or a horse carriage ride through the township. The village looks absolutely breath taking along the majestic backdrop of snow-clad mountains. Zermatt offers various walking trails which is one of the most serene and romantic experiences to witness in the lap of nature’s splendour.   At the edge of the village is one of the most iconic mountain peaks of Switzerland – Matterhorn. Experience the best of Zermatt’s natural beauty with rail tours to Matterhorn. Likewise, you can also arrive at Zermatt on the shuttle train service or you can enjoy a scenic journey on the Glacier Express which takes you through St. Moritz to Zermatt. During winters, this charming village offers a plethora of winter sports activities and is one of the best spots in Europe to enjoy a skiing experience if you want a touch of adventure in your romantic sojourn.

3) Koh Lipe, Thailand



Thailand is no doubt one of the most budget-friendly destinations preferred for a romantic interlude. Its idyllic beaches and azure waters are major attractions as honeymoon getaways. However, the most overhyped and popular beach destinations such as Phuket and Krabi are now crowded by tourists making it lose its secluded charm and thereby not able to provide the serene and secluded ambiances desired for a romantic getaway. Nonetheless, there are many more isles in Thailand that are not yet swarmed by tourists and offer the perfect blend of turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and tropical sunshine. One such hidden gem is the Koh Lipe - an island located within the Tarutao  Marine Park. Teeming with crystal emerald waters, gorgeous sandy stretches of beach shores and verdant forests, it is an ideal place for secluded relaxation. The underwater realm around the isle has some of the best corals and marine life making this a beautiful place for scuba diving and snorkelling.

4) Tuscany, Italy



One of the most gorgeous places to travel in Italy, Tuscany offers a splendid Italian countryside experience. The region has a flawless mélange of Italian architecture, nature scenery, culture, and food scene.  However, the dreamlike landscapes and hazy ambiance sets the scene for a blissful romantic getaway. Start your romantic holiday with a Florentine romance at the historic city. Next, soak in the Tuscan beauty on a hot air ballooning ride over the countryside. The sight of centuries-old structures, rolling vineyards, and undulating green mountains is truly breath taking. Spend your evenings amid stunning sunsets at Castiglione Della Pescaia or unwind with a relaxing dip at the thermal springs of Saturnia or Bagno Vignoni. Don’t forget to raise a toast to your togetherness with some of the finest wines of Chianti vineyards.

5) Hawaii, United States of America



A secluded island away from the mainland of United States of America, Hawaii is amazingly different from the rest of the country. Brimming with tropical foliage, rugged cliffs, brilliant blue waters, serene beaches, and volcanic terrains, Hawaii offers an amazing setting to live like an islander even though you are in the USA. Feel the wind in your hair and taste the salt in the air - Hawaii is all about living carefree. You and your beloved would love to get off the grid of daily grind and spend some time amid nature’s pristine beauty. Laze around on the beach or catch a wave while surfing, Get pampered at relaxing spas or enjoy an exquisite tropical dining experience, every moment spent on the island will make you fall in love more with each other and with the destination.

6) Kerala, India



One of the most beautiful places on the earth is rightly called ‘The God’s own country.’ The State of Kerala in Southern India is a refreshing blend of verdant foliage and entwined backwaters. While the southern part presents a gorgeous fusion of brooks and verdant green landscapes, the north offers gorgeous cascades, rainforests and verdant hill stations. Stay in a houseboat which silently glides through pristine backwaters, camp under the starry skies of verdant jungles, stroll around misty tea plantations or rejuvenate with a traditional spa treatment that melts away your stress. Kerala is the best place to enjoy romantic serenity with a touch of holistic essence.

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Discovering Dubai in 48 Hours

Dubai is one of those city gems that offers a great bang for the buck when it comes to long layovers, short business trips or those long weekends. This small, but immensely attractive emirate offers everything from luxury hotels, gold markets, dazzling shopping malls, rolling sand dunes, white sandy beaches to of course the tallest building in the world. This extremely popular and modern tourist destination of the Middle East is a heart throb for Indian travelers. Business trips, leisure trips, layovers, weekends or long weekends, whatever be your thing, there are many things that will captivate your attention and enthral the traveler in you. Here are some of my top recommendations for a 48 hour break in Dubai.

Watch the Dubai Skyline from the Water

One of my favorite things to do in Dubai is to take a local boat called abra and watch the spectacular view of the city while the abra crosses the Dubai creek. It is super cheap, super efficient and a great way to see the local way of life. If you have deeper pockets and wish for more luxury, opt for the luxury dhow cruises during sunset and get a much better panoramic experience while indulging in luxury.



Stay in a Luxury Hotel

Dubai is one of the hubs for luxury hotels in the world. If planned well, you can great a room at one of these fabulous places for great deal prices. If I were you, I would look for properties in the Palm Jumeirah like Atlantis the Palm Jumeirah or Anantara Dubai The Palm Resort and Spa or for luxury hotels in the downtown area for those spectacular cityscape views. These luxurious properties make for great beginnings for Dubai holidays for the family. For a short trip, you get prime location, spectacular views and access to some of the top attractions of the city. And that is why I recommend staying in one for weekend or short trips, especially when traveling wit your family.

See a Different Dubai at Bastakdiya District

If you wish to see a Dubai that is a far cry from its vertical skyline, head to Bastakdiya district, one of the last remnants of Old Dubai. Everything is in traditional décor here. Here, you will see the wind towers that are pretty much the norm in the deserts of Arabia and Persia. This a great place for photographers and for art and coffee lovers who can find solace in the many art galleries and cafes here.



Get an Adrenaline Rush through Desert Motorcycle Tours

A trip to Dubai is incomplete without a visit to the Great Arabian Desert. While a camel safari during sunset and a dinner under the starlit sky sound fabulous, I am talking about something that is much higher on fun and adventure. I am talking about dirt bikes and dune buggies conquering some of the meanest and largest sand dunes in the Great Arabian sand desert. The best part about these desert motorcycle tours is that you don’t need to hold an UAE or an international driving license to drive the vehicles in the desert. If such adrenaline rushes are your kind of thing, look up my article titled ‘6 Adventure Activities for an Unforgettable Dubai Tour’ for more ideas.

Scale Burj Khalifa

Whether you are spending a long holiday in Dubai or a short one, a visit to the tallest building in the world has to be in your Dubai itinerary. At 828 meters high, this building is the icon of modern Dubai and it is an absolute joy to stand at its observation deck and see this bustling city and its skyscrapers from above. To make best use of your time, I would recommend that you book your tickets online so that you need not worry about long queues or tickets being sold out.

Be Mesmerized by the Dubai Marina

Bordering the massive port of Jebel Ali, the Dubai Marina is white sandy beaches, skyscrapers, open air markets, restaurants, hotels and entertainment shows all rolled into one. This is where you should go for your early morning walk or for your sunset and after experience. The Walk and the Marina Walk are superb places to go for a Dubai culinary experience as it is teeming with all kinds of restaurants and coffee shops.



Bedazzle Yourself at the Gold Souk and Spice Souk

All Indians have heard about Dubai Gold. Well, if you are in Dubai, you definitely have to see the Dubai gold experience up close and live at the Gold Souk, a traditional bazaar whose history goes back to the origins of the city itself.The Gold Souk is not necessarily a place to buy gold for tourists, but these dazzling shops that sell the yellow metal with minimal security make for great photographs. Another great place that is a photographer’s dream is the spice souk that is located not too far away from the Gold Souk. Both these traditional markets are recommended for the experience and for taking photographs than for shopping as better deals and quality is easily available at the city’s shopping malls and supermarkets.

Chill at the Shopping Malls

Shopping malls means free air-conditioning, free place to sit and clean rest rooms for me. Especially, if it is a hot day. Shopping is an added bonus if you are really keen on the buying something for yourself or your friends and/or family. The Dubai Mall, located right next to Burj Khalifah is Dubai’s largest mall and is home to many top brands from all over the world, an indoor aquarium ad an indoor ice rink. For a touristy mall experience, head to Souk Madinat Jumeirah; for factory outlet stuff, head to Dubai Outlet Mall and for luxury brands, go to Mercato and Mall of the Emirates. There are many kinds of shopping malls in Dubai that cater to a diverse population. Hence, look up what you want and head to the specific location for a swift shopping experience.

Indulge in Duty Free Shopping at the Dubai International Airport

The Dubai International Airport in itself is an attraction. Being one of the better duty free shopping destinations in the world, this should be your go-to places to buy duty free items such as perfumes, alcohol, chocolates and many more.  Fashion from the latest designer labels and last minute souvenir hunting is also a good prospect here.

Photo Credits: All the photographs in this post have been borrowed from wikimedia under the Creative Commons License. Each photograph has been linked to its original page on wikipedia.org or wikitravel.org.

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6 Adventure Activities for an Unforgettable Dubai Tour

Dubai, the tourism capital of the world, receives approximately 15 million tourists every year. The emirate’s rich cultural heritage, backdrop of a sparkling skyline and a magnificent coastline make it a delightful holiday destination, attracting travel enthusiasts from around the world. The city is home to some of the most breathtaking architectural marvels, including the world’s tallest building - The Burj Khalifa - but that’s not all. Dubai is also known for various adrenaline-pumping adventure activities that you just can’t afford to miss when in the land of golden wonders. To ensure a seamless experience free from any glitches, it is advisable to buy a Dubai tour package, no matter whether you are in Ahmedabad or Amsterdam! So, without further ado, let's take a quick look at the adventure activities you can experience in Dubai.

1. Mountain Biking



Renowned for its sand dunes, Dubai offers mountain bikers a reason to dress up and rule the rocky terrains. The Hajar Mountains in the east of Dubai have a labyrinth of mountain trails to challenge adventure enthusiast bikers. Most of the mountain tracks go through craggy terrains around the Showka area, with narrow trails, wadi beds and animal paths, where you can even encounter wild donkeys, mountain goats, and lizards. The biking track comprises of steep slopes and rough surfaces that is sure to offer an adrenaline rush, even in experienced riders.

2. Climbing and Hiking



After exploring the Hajar Mountains on bike, don’t forget to go for mountain climbing and hiking. The Hajar Mountains is 3,050 meters or 10,000 feet high that offer shorter climbs along with bouldering opportunities. On the east coast, around Dibba, you can even try solo cliff climbing right above the deep sea. Follow the challenging paths on foot, to high plateaus and mountain tops that offer a spectacular view of the plains. In these upper reaches, you will also find hidden fertile farmland, wadi pools, and remote villages that make for a perfect visual delight.

3. Reef and Wreck Diving



The Gulf of Oman, located in the eastern shores of Arabian Peninsula is a 90-minute drive from the town and is a reason to rejoice for water adventure enthusiasts. Here you will find artificial coral-coated reefs and color-changing cuttle fishes at a depth of 25 meters due to the presence of the Anchor Barge that sunk here in 1998. You can also go for drift diving, where there is a possibility of seeing black-tipped reef sharks, parrot fish, moray eels, scorpion fish, turtles, and whale sharks.

4. Sea Kayaking



The Arabian Peninsula has some excellent sea kayaking arenas, especially in the Dubai coastal areas. Kayakers while enjoying the sport get to see turtles and flamingos along with a majestic view of mangrove forest near the coastline. This forest is also home to endangered birds, such as the white-collared kingfisher and the socotra cormorant.

5. Off Roading



The sand dunes, gravel plains, and wadi beds offer an excellent terrain for off-roading. Rent an All-terrain Vehicle (ATV) in Dubai to enjoy off-roading on the desert trails of the Middle East. Drivers usually bring out a new trick out of their sleeves to impress their customers. Enjoy hours of tearing up and stomach-churning dune-bashing ride that is sure to offer you an unparalleled off-roading experience. Make sure you are holding tight to the safety rod of your ATV.

6. Skydiving



While the view of Dubai’s skyline from the land is breath taking, watching the land from the sky is once in a lifetime experience. Fly like a bird, plummeting towards the 21st century marvels - the world’s tallest building and artificial islands - at hellish speed. Skydiving above the Palm Islands includes an instant free-fall that guarantees an adrenaline rush in almost every skydiver. Later, enjoy the sprawling views that unfurl as you slowly descend towards the ground.

Wrapping Up



When in Dubai, be sure to experience the adventurous side of Dubai tourism - away from skyscrapers and shopping malls - to create everlasting memories that will linger on for the rest of your life. Whether you are in metropolitan cities, such as Delhi and Mumbai or emerging ones, such as Ahmedabad and Pune, it is advisable to choose a reputable travel operator to plan your Dubai tour. Check the itinerary of all the Dubai holiday tour packages they have to offer, closely examining all vital aspects, such as hotel bookings, sightseeing, visa, and other travel essentials. Some travel operators also offer customized Dubai tour packages from Ahmedabad, with provisions for vegetarian meals and also provide a guide for a hassle-free experience.

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Travel Photo of the Day: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, UAE

One of the largest mosques of the world, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is Abu Dhabi’s iconic landmark. It is home to the world’s largest carpet, the world’s third largest chandelier and the world’s largest example of marble mosaic. This mosque that can accommodate 40,000 worshippers was built using skills and materials from the world over. And it is definitely one of the places to visit the next time you head to Abu Dhabi.

Note: Click on the photo to share it or to download a higher resolution as your desktop wallpaper.

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An Arabian Experience

It is that time of the year when the weather is perfect in Dubai, but this often means that prices are higher. So, what should we travelers do to make the best of the fantastic winter weather in Dubai and not make a hole in our pockets? Well, I found an answer to this question on my recent trip to Dubai when I literally struck gold! I actually came across some truly unbeatable Dubai hotel packages at the start of the season. This meant that I was not only able to make the best of sightseeing happen but it also reduced my overall spend.

The good news for travelers in 2016 is that, despite prices imminently going up on account of the Expo 2020, plenty of India-based and Middle East-based hoteliers have hatched some truly inviting offers, to attract a bulk of tourists that are expected to fly in for the Expo. Finding hotels and locking your suite takes some doing especially if you are on a budget, all the same.

But for anyone who has a long list of attractions as well as activities like hitting the Global Village or touring Abu Dhabi in mind, then it is best to follow a set of simple steps for finding accommodation that doesn’t break the bank and yet allows you a truly magnificent stay. Here they are!

1) Research well: Let’s face it; Dubai is a traveller’s paradise. Everything from its malls, entertainment to even the best of attractions is geared toward global visibility and exudes excellence that is tough to ignore even in the most novice traveler. Accordingly, one must surf far and wide to find the one place that can bring you the best of it for cheaper. For instance, Dubai hotels away from the central district are a good bet, since connectivity is brilliant and your premium per night shoots up with increasing proximity to the city’s prominent landmarks. So be prudent and save here to be able to spend elsewhere.



2) Look for value: Dubai’s best hotels will typically be those that offer side-features which make the final price of your room tariff worth it. While these could range from free Wi-Fi to even shuttle services or complimentary breakfast, make sure to utilize these. In the process, not only does one save on other auxiliary expenses like food or transport, but can allocate more for shopping or otherwise.



3) Be smart: Like any foreign nation, there will be no shortage of possibilities where a local may try ripping you off. Be mindful of the kind of rates you are expected to pay, whether it is a restaurant or even a cab ride. Be wary of silver-tongued people at places like the souk or the airport as they often try to swindle away extra bucks in the pretext of a ready ride or tour.

Dubai is the visual desert storm anyone would love to revisit. So it is time for you to get packing and head out!

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35 Random Things about Abu Dhabi

Last month, I spent close to a week at Abu Dhabi. During this time, I got to explore a lot of the Abu Dhabi city, its islands and its oasis city of Al Ain and get a good feel of the local way of life. Based on this experience of mine, I have put together 35 very interesting things about this Emirate that you would have not known. I hope they make for an interesting read.


1) The emirate of Abu Dhabi occupies more than 80% of the land mass of the United Arab Emirates.

2) All of Abu Dhabi’s roads have date palms and other trees by their side. This is to prevent sand dunes from forming on the roads.

3) 50 years ago, Abu Dhabi was a proper desert where nomadic tribes used to live.

4) Abu Dhabi is the richest emirate of UAE. It owns a good chunk of the world’s oil and natural gas reserves.

5) One can find more than 100 varieties of dates from across the Middle East at Abu Dhabi’s date market.


6) Even though all the 7 emirates are governed by the rules of the country, each emirates can offer different perks to its citizens. For example, Emiratis of Abu Dhabi can own 3 cars per person, but Emiratis of Dubai can only own 2 cars per person. Overall, the people of Abu Dhabi get better perks.

7) Abu Dhabi is the most expensive of all the 7 emirates of UAE. Standard of living and cost of living are both very high when compared to other emirates.

8) Expats are not allowed to own property in Abu Dhabi.

9) Immigrants can become UAE citizens only after spending 30 years in that country and that too under very special conditions.

10) Abu Dhabi is home to more than 200 islands.

11) The largest mosque of UAE is located in Abu Dhabi. It is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.


12) Since Abu Dhabi is the largest Emirate, the head Sheikh of UAE will always be from Abu Dhabi.

13) The visionary Sheikh Zayed who transformed Abu Dhabi and the UAE hails from the oasis city of Al Ain. This oasis city is located in the Abu Dhabi emirate.

14) Abu Dhabi is the greenest of all the seven emirates.

15) The fastest theme park ride in the world runs at Abu Dhabi’s Ferrari world.

16) The only Formula one Grand Prix circuit in the UAE is at Abu Dhabi. It is the Yas Marina circuit.

17) Abu Dhabi drives on the right side of the road and overtakes from the left.


18) Abu Dhabi is home to the only five star hotel in the world that straddles a Formula 1 track. In fact, the race track passes from under the hotel. This is the Yas Viceroy hotel.

19) The expat population in Abu Dhabi is significant. People from South Asia make up most of the labor force.

20) Abu Dhabi is aiming to become the future cultural capital of the world.

21) Even though, Abu Dhabi has a lot of skyscrapers, construction and infrastructure development can be seen in full swing at many of its areas.

22) The speed limits on Abu Dhabi’s roads is 120 kmph.

23) Abu Dhabi, like Dubai is obsessed with being the best. It holds many tags like ‘world’s largest’,’world’s biggest’, ‘world’s richest’, etc. Examples would be the super rich Emirates palace, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, its shopping malls, unique buildings and much more.


24) Abu Dhabi is planning to build the world’s largest shopping mall.

25) The Sheikhs of Abu Dhabi use falcons as their hunting partner, take good care of them and even buy them a separate seat on the air plane when flying.

26) The world’s first and largest falcon hospital exists in Abu Dhabi.

27) The famous empty quarter of the Middle East passes through Abu Dhabi.

28) Unlike Dubai, Abu Dhabi is more traditional and hold importance to their culture.

29) Fuel prices are kept high in the United Arab Emirates even though they can opt to price it much lower as they have more supply.


30) Abu Dhabi wants to position it as a top quality international destination. Hence, it has opened up its economy (very much like Dubai) to foreign investors and is encouraging companies to come and set up their businesses here.

31) The citizens of Abu Dhabi, like the other emirates, get free education, free land and money to build a house on that. They also get many other perks from their government.

32) Abu Dhabi is home to some very interesting buildings. Some of them look like a pineapple, a coin, wings, golf ball on the roof and much more.

33) Commute within Abu Dhabi is mainly by road. There is a bit of water based commute.

34) Public transportation infrastructure is minimal in Abu Dhabi. Most of the commute is either private cars or cars on hire.

35) Distances in Abu Dhabi are huge due to its big land mass. But, when commuting no one talks of distances. Instead, they refer by commute time.

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