Dubai
More than just skyscrapers! 7 insider tips that will surprise you
© SF / Shutterstock
When you think of Dubai, do you only think of deserts, malls and skyscrapers? How about magical nature, cool activities and exciting culture? Here are 7 surprising tips for the sun-kissed emirate.
Paddle on emerald green mountain lakes © Sarath maroli
Rugged peaks, emerald green lakes, fresh mountain air – and that in Dubai? Yes there is! Hatta is the name of the pleasantly cool exclave of the emirate in the Hajar Mountains around 90 minutes’ drive southeast of the metropolis. The mountain region offers a surprising contrast to the city and desert and is the perfect place for nature lovers: inside. Whether mountain biking in the mountains, boat tours on the clear mountain lake or discovering cultural treasures: Hatta is perfect for a small escape from the city. From the Hatta Heritage Village with the fort from the 18th century you can enjoy a wonderful view of the mountains.
Oryx watching in the nature reserve © Alexey Stiop / Shutterstock
There are camels in Dubai, of course. But do you already know the pretty oryx that live in the desert? More precisely in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, one of the largest nature reserves in the emirate. It is home to more than 50 species of plants, 120 species of birds, and 43 species of mammals and reptiles. The excursions to the reserve are designed in such a way that animals and plants are not harmed – these include hikes, safaris, falconry demonstrations, rides on horses and camels, camping under the stars, sandboarding and various gastronomic experiences.
Stroll in the frenzy of flowers © Cristian Mircea Balate / Shutterstock
A 72,000 square kilometer park full of creations made from plants and flowers? Something so gigantic also awaits you in the land of superlatives. The Dubai Miracle Garden is home to over 50 million flowers, which have been used to recreate famous buildings and works of art, among other things. Just how it smells!
Experience 1001 nights © BananaHub / Shutterstock
If you long for the magic of 1001 nights, Al Fahidi is the place for you. In the historic district you get an impression of what life was like in old Dubai. The original infrastructure has been partially preserved, and every alley, every tower, every mosque and every museum and restaurant tells stories of oriental life in the past.
Enjoy woman power © berni0004 / Shutterstock
In culinary terms, Dubai stands for exclusive gourmet temples, but there are also young, female concepts: The friends Amal Al Marri and Deem Al Bassam founded the Independent Food Company and, with their six gastro brands, are among the most successful entrepreneurs in the emirate. They were pioneers of the food truck scene with their now legendary burger trucks “Salt” on the beaches, their hip locations under the label “Public” attract the country’s young creative people.
Swim in the sea of sand © AlexBukharov / Shutterstock
Less than 20 minutes by car from Downtown Dubai, you have escaped the turbulence of the big city and stand in the middle of the silent desert. And it has endless space, sensational views, an incredible starry sky and tons of soft sand to offer. If that’s not enough, you can book all kinds of activities: camel rides, oriental dinners or quad tours over the dunes. The brave dare to go on a safari with dune bashing, a ride in a hot air balloon or a parachute jump.
Boarding in Dubai © seeshooteatrepeat / Shutterstock
Why always go on board at the nearest port? Those who start their cruise in Dubai can cruise through the Orient, the Eastern Mediterranean and as far as Southeast Asia – and enjoy the advantages of the extremely exciting emirate on arrival and departure.