My Holiday Experience in Dubai

I arrived in Dubai at the hottest time of the year. Day temperatures in August reach 46 degrees and by 6 in the evening it still does not get any cooler. The weather was not going to spoil this trip though. When arriving in Dubai, we were met by Arabian Adventures and transported to the Pearl Residence Apartments. The rooms were above standard and each had its own mini kitchen.

After dumping our bags, we hit the town. We decided to walk the 3 or 4 blocks to the nearest market. Wow, the heat was really unbearable, but we made it and were really surprised at the amazing choice of shopping there was on offer.

Later that day after getting about an hours’ rest at the hotel, we decided to go on the Dune Dinner Safari. This for me was really exciting as I love the thrill that the 4x4 ride offered. We also had a chance to do some dune boarding, camel riding and then we were transported to an oasis in the middle of nowhere, where we feasted on local cuisine, had our hands and feet painted with henna and watched belly dancing until late into the evening.

The following morning we were up early and made our way to beachfront at the local botanical gardens. The water was as warm as bath water and bluer than the ski. There were quite a few people on the beach as well as some fellow South Africans.

The culture can be seen in all aspects of Dubai. Everything is made of the best material and no money is spared on building the perfect hotel, office block or mall. Every palm tree and plant in Dubai has its own sprinkler system as everything is very dry, being an oasis in the middle of a huge desert.

We took a trip to the Knaif Market (Women’s Market). Here we got bargains in silk, watches, jewellery, jeans, “designer” t shirts etc. We walked 4 blocks and found ourselves at the Gold Souk. I have never in my life seen so much gold under one roof. It was amazing to walk from one shop to the next and just see the array of jewels on offer.

I feel that I did not get to see enough of what Dubai had to offer and will definitely be returning one day for more excitement.