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Infographic: Dubai Record Breakers

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Where are the best places to stay in Dubai?

Dubai is one of the most touristic places on the planet, with some of the best, luxurious destinations for the discerning traveller. So where are the best places to stay in Dubai? That really depends on what type of holiday you’re after, here are some of the best activities in popular areas, brought to you by holiday rental operator My Dubai Stay:

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Dubai Marina

 If you love having the sea on your doorstep and being able to launch off in a luxury yacht, then the Dubai Marina could be the perfect place for your holiday destination. Whether you want to have a romantic sunset cruise or simply enjoy a gourmet meal in one of the Marina’s 5 star restaurants, this is a fantastic destination for couple getaways. 

Jumeirah Beach Residence

Enjoy nothing more than sitting by the beach and soaking up the sun? Then Jumeirah Beach Residence is the place for you. With a 2km strip of soft golden sand you will be treated to the year round sun, warm sea and panoramic views of the wide open sea. The Walk features a shopping strip and restaurants, making it perfect for a bit of retail therapy!

Jumeirah Lake Towers

Sports enthusiasts will be in their element with the sports clubs and fitness spas which are available to the public. Immerse yourself in your favourite game and meet new friends or simply unwind and relax in the top quality spas. If it is shopping you’re after then Lake Towers has some excellent stores that you won’t find anywhere else in the world.

Palm Golden Mile

The Golden Mile is ideally located on the western point of the Palm Jumeirah, giving it excellent links to some of the most popular, trendy restaurants in Dubai. There are many activities that you can take part in here, from sunbathing all the way to scuba diving and swimming with dolphins.

Palm Jumeirah Crescent

If it’s water sports you’re after then the Palm Jumeirah Crescent has everything from kayak tours, to water polo. Don’t like getting your feet wet? Chill out in the spectacular malls which will give you all the exercise you need from walking from one amazing store to the next.

Palm Jumeirah

The Palm itself is the biggest tourist attraction of them all, with excellent links to all of the above attractions and with plenty more sightseeing and shopping destinations. This is also home to the Dubai Ice Rink and shopping mall, letting you enjoy a bit of a cool down from Dubai’s notorious heat and taking care of all your shopping needs.

Wherever you stay in Dubai you will be astounded and amazed by the scenery, architecture and amount of activities available to you. So whatever location you choose, you’ll be able to see the best of Dubai.

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Do You Always Forget to Pack Something? Not Anymore!

Last Minute Trip to Dubai? No Problem. If you have last minute accommodation in Dubai and bargain flights then check out our handy packing checklist.

image: Highways Agency

It’s great that you are a spontaneous person who books holidays on the spur of the moment or last minute. And to be honest we’re quite jealous that you can have time off work so easily. You don’t want to be so laid back when it comes to your packing however or you may forget something important.

Use this handy checklist and tick things off as you go along and you can rest and look forward to your holiday in the knowledge you have everything packed.

Essential Documents

□ Passport

□ Flight tickets

□ Hotel Booking Information

□ Transfer receipts

□ Foreign currency or traveller’s cheques

□ Holiday insurance document

□ Driving licence

Personal Essentials

□ Mobile phone

□ Watch

□ Camera

□ Sunglasses, glasses or contact lenses

□ Any medication or medical equipment you may require

Clothing

When abroad it is important to respect the customs of the country you are visiting. And in the United Arab Emirates it is important for women to dress sensibly and to not wear outfits which are very revealing. This is especially true in public areas where topless sunbathing and micro-bikinis are frowned upon.

□ Day and night outfit for every day you are away

□ Jacket

□ Underwear

□ Socks and tights

□ Swimwear and beach cover up

□ Sandals and flip flops

□ Walking shoes or trainers

Accessories

□ Sun hat

□ Belt

□ Handbag

□ Jewellery

Toiletries

□ Sun lotion

□ After sun

□ Shampoo

□ Conditioner

□ Soap

□ Shower products

□ Razor

□ Aftershave or perfume

□ Antiperspirant or deodrant

□ Toothbrush

□ Toothpaste

□ Moisturiser

□ Make up

□ Wet wipes

Other

□ Towels

□ First aid kit

□ Mobile phone charger

□ Plug adaptor

□ MP3 player

□ Headphones

□ Reading material

□ Travel sweets

□ Hairbrush or comb

□ Other hair accessories such as clips

□ Travel mirror

□ Nail file

□ Tweezers

□ Pen and paper

□ Playing cards

□ Books or a magazine

□ Sewing kit

□ Umbrella

Have you got everything ticked off the list? Then you are all ready to go. Enjoy your last minute accommodation in Dubai and don’t forget to send us some of your photos! PS: Have you got your flights sorted but are still looking for cheap accommodation in Dubai? Take a look at these amazing last-minute Dubai deals!

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Dubai Celebrities: Who Lives There (And Where You Can Find Them)

Dubai is visited by millions of different people every year who flock from across the world to the UAE's largest city. And as well as regular people like you or I, it should come as no surprise that Dubai is incredibly popular with celebrities too, who are enticed in by the exclusive shops and A-list events. Which celebrities can I find in Dubai?

Image Credit

If you're planning on doing a little bit of star spotting during your holiday to Dubai, you could be in luck. Stars of sport, stage, screen and music call it home or jet in for some of the many exciting events across the year.

Dubai's celebrity visitors come from a wide array of backgrounds:

Sports – David Beckham owns a home on the Palm Jumeirah, alongside many of his English football teammates including Ashley Cole and Wayne Rooney. F1 driver Lewis Hamilton is also known to visit Dubai, as well as tennis legend Boris Becker, golf superstar Tiger Woods and French football icon Zinedine Zidane.

Film – Plenty of Hollywood descend on Dubai to star in some of their latest roles or indulge in a little relaxation time. Jude Law has been seen at the Blue Marlin Ibiza Beach Club as well as Bollywood superstar Mika Singh, Susan Sarandon, 80s action hero Jean-Claude Van Damme,Mel Gibson and Will Smith.

Music – Dubai is home to plenty of music festivals and venues and in the last year the city has played host to a diverse range of acts, including the likes of Tiesto, The Stone Roses, Lionel Richie, Noel Gallagher and Example.

Fashion – Giorgio Armani opened one of his prestigious Armani Hotels in Dubai, while the likes of Naomi Campbell and Karolina Kurkova can also be found on and off the catwalk there.

Where can I spot celebrities in Dubai? With so many celebrities living in and visiting Dubai, you'd be forgiven for thinking that a stroll down the street would see you bump into at least three different A-listers. Unfortunately, the truth isn't quite the same – you have to know where to look. There are a number of exclusive restaurants, hotels and areas where you're more likely than not to get a little star struck. For instance, Mezzanine, which is owned by the celebrity chef Gary Rhodes, is a favourite with plenty of celebrities, as is Gordon Ramsay's exclusive eaterie Verre.  If you're on a night out, you might want to visit Trilogy, a hip bar that has three floors playing different types of music and that hosts many big names, or the Skyview Bar at the Burj Al Arab Hotel where you might share a stunning view with some A-listers. You could also rent one of the stunning Palm Jumeirah villas. My Dubai Stay are a holiday rental provider offering gorgeous accommodation across Dubai's top locations. Prices can be up to 40% cheaper than hotel prices! David and Victoria, here we come!

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Drones Deliver a High Tech Reason to Visit Dubai

The future lives in Dubai.

That was the message sent by the recent announcement that Dubai would start using robot ‘drones’ to deliver driving licenses and other official documents.

But whilst this is the initial use of the technology, it’s not hard for innovative business men and women to imagine the potential uses of this robot delivery system.

The 18-inch wide drone is battery-powered, has encased rotors to protect against damage, and will use eye-recognition and fingerprint technology as security measures.

Dubai’s announcement follows hard on the heels of Amazon’s recent demonstration of a prototype mini-drone that would be used to deliver packages to customers in just 30 minutes. This mini-drone was introduced by Amazon’s CEO Jeff Bezos, who played a video showing the drones – also known as ‘octocopters’ – picking up items in small yellow buckets and whizzing them through the air.

Said Bezos: “I know this looks like science fiction. It’s not. We can do half-hour delivery...and we can carry objects, we think, up to 5lbs, which covers 86% of the items that we deliver.”

However, aviation experts have pointed out huge potential pitfalls to the project. For starters, there are the governing US aviation regulations that state that aircraft, including miniature drones, must have line-of-sight controls. This is because most drones lack the level of control and spatial awareness needed for self-navigations. Added to this are the challenges of blustery winds, power lines and tall buildings that are considerable obstacles to urban drone delivery in high density areas.

Still, the UAE has promised to go ahead with its plans, despite the additional challenges of blistering summer temperatures and highly aggressive sand storms.

But as foolhardy as this might seem to some, this is typical Dubai mentality.

And far more compelling than any information about Dubai that one can read in a press release...is this defiant daring spirit that draws people from around the world to the region. Read more about Dubai here.

Image source: n3wjack

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Dubai Camel Racing Festival 2014: An Unmissable Event

Dubai Camel Racing Festival is one of many anticipated events in Dubai. Both residents and expatriates gather to enjoy this favoured local sport. 

Are you looking at taking a much needed holiday? Why not consider Dubai, a truly inspirational holiday destination. This traveller’s hotspot has a rich culture so if you’re seeking a place that’s packed with history, philosophy and things to see and do, Dubai is the holiday haven for you.

What better way to explore the city’s culture than by attending The Dubai Camel Racing Festival. The prestigious festival is taking place from the 6th to the 17th April 2014 at the Al Marmoum Camel Racetrack. The Dubai Camel Racing Festival is one of many fun-filled events in Dubai that aims to maintain and build upon the popular UAE sport (find out more about other Dubai events here).

Camel racing is an ancient sport that was encouraged by the ruling sheiks. This fast-paced sport was customarily used to mark wedding occasions as well as other significant extravaganzas. However, after the oil boom and influx of foreign investment, sheiks worried about camel racing fading out of the UAE’s national heritage. As a result, camel racing became a profitable way to keep the sporting tradition alive.

This 12-day festival will see thousands of highly-trained camels of all different ages and breeds, from all over the Middle East, compete in rounds to win their owners remarkable cash prizes as well as extravagant awards.

The camels are lined up in pens, similar to a horse racing event, and race around the track to the finish line, whilst being passionately pursued by owners as well as racing radicals, who tend to scream encouragement as they drive alongside the track.

Not only is The Dubai Camel Racing Festival an exciting event to watch, it serves a purpose: to ensure that long-held traditions and practices aren’t forgotten about. If you wish to experience an Emirati-style surge of adrenaline, whilst also gaining cultural knowledge, book a trip to Dubai and be sure to head to the Al Marmoum Camel Racetrack on the Al Ain road.

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Bungee Jumping In Dubai

Looking at 4 bedroom holiday apartments for rent in Dubai, but stuck for ideas on what to do once you get there? 4 words: bungee jumping in Dubai.

You’ve finally found the perfect 4 bedroom holiday apartments for rent in Dubai. It’s in the perfect location, way cheaper than paying for a separate hotel rooms, and it allows you and your friends to have your own space as you go on your Dubai holiday. There’s just one problem. Although you’ve got a really cool place to stay and made activity plans, there’s something missing… You need something that would make this holiday really epic, but you can’t quite grasp what it could be. Well, have no fear, because this article has 4 words that will blow your mind: bungee jumping in Dubai.

What is Bungee Jumping?

If you’ve seen the James Bond movie GoldenEye, then you’ll remember the opening scene which was voted in a 2002 poll as the best movie stunt of all time. In this scene, 007 leaps off the Verzasca Dam in Switzerland, 220metres above the ground, with nothing holding him but an elastic bungee cord attached to his ankles. This record-breaking jump, performed by British stuntman Wayne Michaels, boosted worldwide interest in the sport of bungee jumping.

Defying Gravity at The Gravity Zone in Dubai

Thankfully, you don’t have to brave the freezing cold of Switzerland to the same. Instead, you can get your adrenaline fix at the Gravity Zone in warm and sunny Dubai. With their offices based at 1204 API Tower, on Sheikh Zayed Road, Gravity Zone runs decently priced events in conjunction with the UK Bungee Club, the British market leader for Bungee Jumping, Adrenaline Sports and TV Stunt work with over 20 years experience. This means that you get the adrenaline rush of an extreme sport with extreme safety.

Gravity Zone offers single jumps, FAB jumps (you’ve got to check these out!) and the exhilarating, lifelong memory-making tandem jumps. In a tandem jump, you and a friend get attached to each other, and dropped from 160 feet with nothing holding you other than a bungee cord attached to your ankles. This experience will stay with you for a lifetime, and be the cause of many envious looks as you tell this story when you get back from your Dubai holiday.

Go Bungee Jumping In Dubai

So what are you waiting for? Go ahead and book a 4 bedroom holiday apartments for rent in Dubai for you and your friends (find a stunning selection here), and then head over to Gravity Zone to book the experience of a lifetime: bungee jumping in Dubai.

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Forthcoming Events in Dubai

Are you considering a holiday to Dubai? Look no further. The cosmopolitan city has an abundance of impending events that are certain to entertain, educate and enthuse.

Omega Dubai Desert Classic 2014 27th Jan – 2nd Feb 2014 Celebrate the 25th birthday of one of the most anticipated golf tournaments of 2014 at the Emirates Golf Club by marking your attendance. The event will feature an 18-hole stroke-play showpiece to further honour the tournament’s 25th anniversary which will see former champions contend for the $600,000 prize fund.

The Omega Dubai Desert Classic will also attract some of the biggest names in the golfing world including Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy.  The affair is promoted and organised by the umbrella organisation Golf in Dubai and is the landmark event of the city. If you’re a golf enthusiast, the Omega Dubai Desert Classic should not be missed.

Click for more info about golf in Dubai.

Dubai Food Carnival 21st – 22nd Feb 2014 Dubai Food Carnival is the largest food event in the UAE. If you’re a food fanatic, this two-day food feast and drink extravaganza is right up your street.  Visit Dubai Festival City and tantalise your taste buds with a medley of flavours from around the world.

This gourmet-themed celebration is expected to attract 20,000 visitors. Why? Well with notorious names such as John Torode and Silvena Rowe set to make an appearance combined with an exciting range of attractions and entertainment activities including cook-offs, BBQ competitions and more, Dubai Food Carnival is a must-go-to event.

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature 2014 4th – 8th March 2014 Otherwise known as the LitFest, the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature brings people of all ages, nationalities and backgrounds together through their love of reading and writing. If you’re a book worm or have a zeal for the written and spoken word, the LitFest is for you.

Come and meet infamous authors, writers, speakers and thinkers at the InterContinental Hotel, Festival City and enjoy the literary discussions, workshops and other interesting events on offer. Don’t miss out on a wonderful opportunity such as this one; the event is a true literary feast that additionally provides aspiring novelists to prove their skills.

These forthcoming events are sure to make your holiday something special. If you were only considering a holiday before, these events are most definitely likely to have swayed you. A holiday in Dubai is more than just a desert, it’s steeped in culture.

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Zabeel Park Dubai

Located in Downtown Burj Dubai, Zabeel Park offers out-of-this-world technology and fun amusements that will keep kids entertained for hours.

Probably the most popular zone is Stargate Dubai – a collection of 5 huge domes encircling a food court and seating area. The domes all have their own attractions and include the following:

The Earth Dome with its exciting roller coaster and technological displays. Here your kids can also learn about the making of a roller coaster and how they work.

The Lunar Dome with its extensive ice rink. You can book lessons in advance if you want to and really make the most of the day.

The Saturn Dome with its 3D entertainment displays and IMAX cinema.

The Mars Domes which is aimed at younger children and includes several activity rooms, a viewing area and a large café.

The UFO Dome with two go kart tracks – one for younger visitors who want to learn to drive and a family track for the older children and parents.

The park itself also features the stunning Barcode Gardens where you can picnic as a family and enjoy some amazing water features and high-tech water displays. From there you can visit the numerous Technology Zones and experience almost all space age technology in use today. The Technology Zones include the Energy Zone where you can learn about renewable energies through innovative activities, and the Space Maze – another incredibly popular and fun attraction.

Although Zabeel Park isn’t an amusement park in the way most people think of an amusement park i.e. Alton Towers, Chessington Park etc. It is an excellent day out for families of all ages. Known as the only ‘technology themed amusement park in the Gulf’ it offers everything you and your children will need for a fun day out.  

What’s more, there are plenty of restaurants and cafes dotted around the park so you’ll never go hungry and, as the park is open from 8am to 11pm every day, you know you’ll get your money’s worth. 

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Roger Federer’s Guide To Enjoying The “Hidden” Dubai Experience

As the earth races at 108,000 kilometers per hour on its course around the sun, the morning light slowly seeps across the globe. Hitting Sydney Australia, sunbeams glide across the Indian Ocean spreading up past Tokyo, Mumbai, Munich, London, New York all the way to the Samoan Islands. But somewhere between latitude 25°North and longitude 55° East, the sun’s rays pause for a moment at one of the hidden wonders of the world: the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium.

Spread across a million square feet of prime real estate, the Dubai Duty Free Tennis Stadium has been showcasing the world’s best players since its modest start in 1996. And from 17th February to 1st March 2014, this stadium will host the annual Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship, voted the “best 500 series” ATP event.

  Thousands of tennis fans and celebrities have already made their plans to flock to Dubai for a nice winter-break escape to the sunshine. Hotel and tour guide phones are ringing off the hook as the $5 billion hospitality industry of the United Arab Emirates gears up to give its new visitors the typical Dubai experience.

  But as nice as the typical Dubai experience is, there is a “hidden” Dubai that the tourists and hotel-bound visitors never get to see. It’s a Dubai that 17-Grand Slam Tennis Champion Roger Federer regularly experiences and explores. And to help you enjoy the same, here is Roger Federer’s 3 step guide to enjoying the “hidden” Dubai experience.

  #1 Go Against The Flow

When Roger was an unknown 14 year old at the Swiss National Tennis Centre in Ecublens, near Lausanne, most of his classmates stated that they wanted to be in the top 100. Not Roger. Instead, in an interview with a local newspaper, he stated his bold ambition to be world number one. Thirteen years later, competing at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, most tennis players opted to stay at the Olympic village to rub shoulders with other sports celebrities. Not Roger. Instead, he chose to stay off the site because the constant requests for autographs interrupted his desire to prepare.

  There are many more examples but the lesson is simple. If you’re going to have a great experience, you’ve got to be prepared to go against the flow and do the opposite of what everyone else is doing. That’s how you get the great experiences, discoveries and stories that will be the envy of all your friends and family when you get home from your holiday.

  #2 Play By Your Own Rules

Here’s what Pierre Paganini, Roger’s personal trainer and former Swiss decathlete, said of him:

  “He's one of the rare breed of players who don't just follow orders, but adds his own personal touch. He is meticulous and inventive, rigorous and spontaneous, all at the same time." In other words, “going against the flow” may mean something as drastic as going somewhere that none of the tourists would dare explore. But equally, it might mean going to the same places that “everyone else” is going to, but creating your own unique experiences in those places. So maybe you order food you’ve never tried before, or you take on the “haggle challenge” where you go shopping for an hour with your friends, and the first person to pay full price for anything without getting a discount from the shopkeeper has to buy drinks or ice-cream or dinner for the entire group.

  Whatever you do, Roger’s advice to enjoying the experiences that most people don’t see is to add your own person touch, and play the game by your own rules.

  #3 Create Your Own Space

It’s much easier to go against the flow, and play by your own rules when you have the freedom that comes from having your own place. This is why Roger decided to buy his own apartment in Dubai and not be dependent on the opening and closing hours of the hotels that he could more than afford.

  Now I can hear the tourists whining that there’s no way that they could do that. After all, Roger Federer has a net worth of over $180 million and lives in a 550-square foot apartment by the Dubai Marina.

  But what the tourists don’t realise is that many intrepid explorers achieve the same luxurious experience of freedom at a fraction of the cost by renting out self-catered apartments. You can find many self-catered 2 or 3 bedroom apartments for rent in Dubai for much less than what the hordes of tourists will be paying at the downtown hotels (click here to see a selection of Dubai apartments). And best of all, renting your own self-catered 3 bedroom apartment helps you save money which you can use on enjoying the real “hidden” Dubai that the tourists don’t see.

Just like Roger Federer.

  Image: Lucky B

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Dubai Museum

If you’re treating you loved one to a holiday in Dubai this New Year, you most definitely won’t be short of things to do. There are tons of fun and exciting activities on offer in Dubai to make your trip really spectacular.

History of Dubai

The city of Dubai has developed rapidly since the discovery of oil in the 1960’s. From once being dependent on fishing, Dubai has transformed into one of the most prominent cities in the Middle East, attracting more and more tourists every year. However, this swift progress has somewhat diminished the culture and rich history of the city. The old, traditional style houses and buildings have been replaced by new, state of the art buildings and hotels to create a quite magnificent skyline and the camels and Dhows substituted by super cars and yachts. When looking for places to stay in Dubai, see what My Dubai Stay has to offer.

Often, the people who visit Dubai are only interested in the luxury lifestyle and glamour, which is great, but if you are fascinated in learning about the rich history and interesting culture of Dubai, make sure to check out the Dubai Museum. As the oldest building still standing in Dubai, built in 1787, it was once used as a guard to ward off neighbouring tribes, and has been both a ruler’s palace and a prison and is a must see attraction for history buffs.

In 1971 it was converted to the museum it is today, with hands on exhibits, hologram movies and videos which shows the life and people that lived in Dubai from years gone by before oil was discovered and up to the present day through the vast developments of the city. Did you know that tourism only became prominent in Dubai in the late 1980’s?

What can I see?

In the museum, you can expect to see really interesting old maps of the city and compare them to the massive urban growth of the landscape in which we see today. There is also a real life size diorama of how life used to be in the desert Dubai, with old style shops such as tailors, carpenters and an iron smith. It really gives you a sense of the hustle and bustle that went on in the old style souk markets. As well as all this, there is a model of a Mosque, a display of animals such as camels and an archaeological site displaying tombs and an excavated skeleton. After all this wonderful and interesting information which is given through audio descriptions, there is a gift shop so that you can get something to remember it by.

Dubai museum will really put things into perspective; the lifestyle was not always as glamorous as it is today. So when you’re enjoying the restaurants, the activities and the jet set lifestyle in Dubai, spare a little thought to the people of times gone by. Image source

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Dubai International Film Festival

If you’re thinking of jetting off somewhere before Christmas, why not consider Dubai?  This cultural city has a lot to offer; from audacious architecture to spectacular shopping malls, this cosmopolitan hub is the perfect destination for anyone wanting a stylish yet educational getaway.  4 bedroom apartments for rent in Dubai are both affordable and luxurious so finding accommodation will be easy!

Colin Firth

Dubai is a must-see location for any traveller who’s looking for a multi-faceted city which has so much more to offer than a mere party destination. This cosmopolitan hub has plenty of virtues; you’ll never get bored in the city of Dubai, particularly when the city is home to the Dubai International Film Festival (DIFF).  

If you’re holidaying in Dubai during the 6-14th December, you can experience all the associated glitz and glamour as the Dubai International Film Festival rolls into town. The 10th edition of this prestigious event will feature 18 Arabic-themed films. Not only does the event attract tourists and locals, it also entices the glitterati from across the globe, with previous guests including Tom Cruise, Colin Firth, Rooney Mara and Carey Mulligan. Which stars will shine the brightest this year?

The Dubai International Film Festival glamorously celebrates excellence in cinema and should not be missed. If you’re visiting Dubai whilst this significant event is taking place, DIFF should be on your to-do list.  This momentous festival is really like no other. 

Whilst in Dubai, you’ll need a place to stay.  The stunning city has a whole range of accommodation, from luxury to budget.  If you’re travelling with friends or couples, you’ll want to be close to cultural sights and attractions; perhaps a beach on your doorstep or at least a view of the beautiful, turquoise sea.  The spacious 4 bedroom apartments for rent in Dubai offered by accommodation provider My Dubai Stay are a perfect choice, take a look at their website.

Image Source

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The Futurisic Dubailand: Your Next Family Holiday

Did you think Walt Disneyworld was the crème da la crème of theme parks? You may have been right, but it is soon to be usurped. Dubai is in the process of developing an enormous project, double the size of Walt Disney World, which is set to become the biggest theme park on earth...

Dubai is notorious for doing things bigger and better; everything it does is on a grand scale. When the city asked Disney to consider building a resort there and Disney turned them down, what did Dubai go and do? That’s right; they planned to construct a theme park called Dubailand, twice the size of its rival, Walt Disney World.

Image source: http://dubailand.name/

The plan to build this colossal complex of theme parks, malls and model cities was announced in 2003. At this point, it was one of the most ambitious leisure developments ever proposed, costing $64.3billion. However, when the global recession hit along with Dubai’s financial crisis, this exciting project was put on hold for a few years, with the development only recently being resumed. 

This year, updates have portrayed that $55billion has been raised in private investment, giving this vast entertainment complex a new lease of life. Dubailand is expected to open in 2015, so if you and your family love action and adventure, start planning now. And, at least with so many family friendly 2 bedroom holiday apartments for rent in Dubai, you won’t be short of somewhere to stay.

Like Walt Disneyworld which has numerous parks, Dubailand is divided into six zones, each referred to as a world; Attractions and Experience World; Sports and Outdoor World; Eco-Tourism World; Themed Leisure and Vacation World; Retail and Entertainment World and Downtown. These parks will be the largest collection of theme parks in the whole world; if that doesn’t tempt you into visiting this magnificent attraction, nothing will. Walt Disney World eat your heart out - Dubailand is set to be a huge success!

Are Disney regretting turning down the opportunity to build a resort in Dubai? Probably. Disney said Dubai was too small, however, Dubailand is expected to attract 200,000 tourists on a daily basis.

When booking your trip, affordable accommodation will be a priority; you will be spending most of your time striding excitedly around Dubailand, so you’ll need something comfortable where you can put your feet up. With plenty of 2 bedroom holiday apartments in Dubai that will cater for your family’s needs, finding somewhere suitable and affordable shouldn’t be a problem.

My Dubai Stay provide luxurious apartments and villas in some of the most desirable locations in Dubai.  Be sure to check out their website when considering accommodation for your trip to the remarkable Dubailand. 

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The Dubai Dos and Don'ts

If you’re visiting Dubai for the first time, there are a few things to be aware of. This dazzling city is a cosmopolitan hub, however, there are still values and traditions that need to be followed.  Read on to discover the dos and don’ts of Dubai.

Dress Code

Following the dress code is essential in Dubai; it is important to dress in a respectable manner.

In public places such as restaurants, shopping centres and parks, your dress code should be in accordance with Islamic values. 

In order to prevent unwanted attention, when you are in a public place, steer clear of the following:

Transparent or tight-fitted garments

Offensive slogans or images on clothing

Low-cut tops or dresses

Mini-skirts and shorts

In general though, Dubai’s dress code is not extremely strict. So as long as your shoulders are covered, and your legs are not entirely exposed, you are good to go.

On privately owned beaches, the dress code is more relaxed and wearing a bikini is the norm.

Alcohol consumption

Although it is against the law to be seen either drunk in a public place and to drink in the streets of Dubai, it is more than acceptable for non-Muslims to drink alcohol in a bar, club or restaurant as most of these premises will possess an alcohol licence.

Smoking Shisha

Like in other Arab countries, in Dubai the smoking of Shisha is widespread and something of a tradition. Flavoured tobacco is vaporised and smoked through a water-pipe; this is often accompanied by the sipping of hot mint tea. You will find many shisha cafés throughout Dubai – some of these places boasting stunning views over Dubai Marina - and as long as consumption is done responsibly, it is an unforgettable experience to try.

Drugs

When it comes to drugs, the country operates on a zero tolerance basis. The penalties are extremely severe if a person is found with illegal substances, no matter how small the amount. Even prescribed drugs are not tolerated. A custodial punishment can be handed out for something as innocuous as taking over-the-counter drugs into the country.

Public displays of affection

Public displays of affection can be seen as highly offensive. For married couples, holding hands is acceptable, but nothing more – no hugging or kissing. Save any physical contact for your apartment, just to be on the safe side!

Have you booked your holiday accommodation yet? If you are looking for a 1 bedroom holiday apartment for rent in Dubai, My Dubai Stay has an extensive range of luxury holiday accommodation available, from plush apartments to expansive villas. 

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A Treat for the Eyes: Dubai’s Spectacular Fountain

Dubai Fountain in Downtown Burj Dubai is a major talking point for tourists and attracts a mixture of locals & travellers. Learn more about this fantastic tourist hotspot.

The marvelled Dubai Fountain is a work of art ingeniously designed by the California-based company, WET Design. Lit up by several thousand lights and various colour projectors, the fountain is a visually stunning spectacle that cannot be missed.

What makes this attraction so popular? Well, besides from being set in front of the monumental Burj Khalifa, this fountain is like no other. Like clockwork, the Dubai Fountain performs every twenty minutes, spurting water over a hundred metres in to the air in time with a wide range of music including classical sensations to dance numbers.  The beam of light that shines upwards from this outstanding creation can not only be spotted from over twenty miles away but also can be spotted from space.  This makes the attraction the brightest in the Middle East and perhaps, the world. 

Downtown Burj Dubai is a popular district as there is always something to do and see in this vibrant area. Entertainment is endless in Downtown Dubai, especially as it is home to some of the best shopping malls in the state. The infamous Dubai Mall is the largest shopping in the world, featuring an extensive range of luxurious brands. Dubai Mall is the ultimate shopping experience. 

These three attractions - the captivating water fountain, the prestigious mall and the grand Bruj Khalifa - are what really makes Downtown Dubai so special. However, the world’s largest choreographed fountain system is the real captivating characteristic of the city. This breath-taking sight is best at night so be sure to make a sunset appearance in order to fully appreciate the fountain in all its glory.  Be sure to visit this spectacular treasure when in the cosmopolitan city of Dubai.

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Upcoming events in Dubai

Dubai has an eclectic mix of events on offer this winter, from classical collaborations to visually attractive air shows; Dubai is spoilt for choice.

Dubai’s Big Pink Ball When? October 24th 2013 Where? Sky Bubble, Meydan Racecourse

Be sure not to miss out on what this glamorous event has in store; tickle your taste buds with food and drink and feast your eyes on varied cabaret acts inspired by Moulin Rouge.  Not only will this upcoming event provide electrifying entertainment, glamour and excitement, it will also help to support women and their families who have been affected by breast cancer.  Dubai’s Big Pink Ball raises not only money, but awareness for this fantastic cause. 

A Classical Night under the Stars When? October 25th 2013 Where? Du Arena, Yas Island

Head to this renowned outdoor venue and be blown away by two of the world’s most famous classical soloists. Mezzo soprano superstar Katherine Jenkins will perform live with leading Spanish tenor José Carreras to an excitable all-seated audience.  Prepare yourself for a modern take on classic music which will feature some of the most highly regarded classical music ever written. A Classical Night under the Stars will be a night to remember.

Dubai Airshow When? Sunday, 17th - Thursday, 21st November 2013 Where? Dubai World Central 

For the aerospace enthusiasts, this biennial event is a must. Attracting visitors for over two decades, not only from the Middle East but from across the globe, the Dubai Airshow is a growing success – in fact it’s believed to be the fastest growing airshow in the world!  Visit this thriving event and be in awe of the planes that will take to the sky including Aerolux (UK), Alsalam Aircraft (Saudi Arabia), Gulf Aviation Academy (Bahrain) and Lockheed Martin (USA). 

Dubai International Film Festival When? 6th-14th December Where? Mall of the Emirates

For anybody who is a serious fan of the big screen, consider the Dubai International Film Festival an essential event. Launched almost a decade ago, this week-long festival presents some of the best blockbusters from the Arab world and introduces fresh new talent as well as unique film making to wide audiences.  The Dubai International Film Festival will be a memorable experience from the red carpet to the films themselves. 

Author Note: If you’re looking to attend events in Dubai and need a place to stay, check out My Dubai Stay who offer some fantastic holiday rentals, from furnished apartments to sophisticated villas.

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An Alternative Guide to Honeymooning in Dubai

Dubai is becoming an increasingly popular choice for a honeymoon destination due to its sheer abundance of things to do and see.

What makes Dubai so different from other honeymoon hotspots? Well, being a cosmopolitan city, Dubai has a little something in store for everyone. From a stunning showcase of designer stores and bustling bazaars, to an adrenaline junkie’s paradise of clear blue water perfect for water sports, Dubai is the ultimate location for newlyweds. 

Skiing in Dubai – sounds pretty ambitious, right?  However, Dubai is perhaps one of the only destinations in the world that is able to offer this fun-filled activity on both snow and sand.  This truly unique experience should be on your list if you and your partner love sharing exciting outdoor experiences. 

Looking for something more romantic? Why not take an Arabian adventure through the desert followed by a sunset barbeque – sheer bliss.  Steel yourself for a journey over the sand dunes of the Arabian desert as you are expertly driven by a professional in a luxurious 4-wheel drive. After a thrilling safari experience, settle down to enjoy the surreal sunset over the desert whilst feasting on a delicious barbequed feast. Stay for the night and gaze at the millions of stars above you.

If you’re culture crazy, visit the Jumeirah Mosque for an interesting insight on one of the most impressive mosques available to non-Muslim tourists.  Head to the historic district of Bastakiya and get lost in traditional Emirati life as you delve back in time to small houses, wind towers and a maze of narrow streets.  Take a look at the last remains of the Old City Wall; a defence mechanism that was used to border the old town of Bur Dubai.  This historic district will offer the key to one of Dubai’s most intriguing pasts. 

Food fanatics should be sure to visit Dubai’s spice market (Spice Souk).  Popular with both locals and tourists, this foodie’s paradise offers treasures in the form of fragrant spices and loose leaf teas.  The colourful collection of spices combined with the exotic aromas will pull you in from the streets.  Follow your nose to the Spice Souk and be in for a treat.

Author Note: If you’re thinking of honeymooning in the stunning city, take a look at a 1 bedroom apartment for rent in Dubai on My Dubai Stay's website. Find a romantic nest for you and your spouse in one of Dubai’s prime locations.