Ever-changing, ever-evolving Dubai lies on two banks of a waterway known as The Creek (Khor Dubai). Its attractions range from the ultra-modern to the extremely ancient: timeless vistas of the Arabian desert, the ancient lanes and wind-towers of the old Bastakiya quarter; the world’s most sophisticated shopping centres and the bustle and bargains of the Souk. Make sure you miss nothing that this extraordinary city has to offer.
Show moreUse this interactive map to explore a huge range of accommodation in Dubai - all available on Expedia. Click on a hotel to see the hotels in that area.
When to go to Dubai?
The best time to go is between November and April. Searing desert temperatures coupled with humidity mean Dubai is best avoided from May to October. November is very pleasant (around 25 degrees); it’s cooler still in December and January, and from then on the mercury slowly rises. You might also want to avoid Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting, though hotel rates are lower then. Ramadan’s dates change annually; 2009 is 20 August to 18 September.
Are we there yet?
Dubai Flight times
From Sydney : around 15 hours.
From Melbourne : around 16 hours.
From Brisbane : around 13 hours.
Bastakiya District: the city’s old quarter. Here you’ll find the excellent Dubai Museum in ancient Al Fahidi Fort and see traditional courtyard houses with wind-towers.
The Grand Mosque (opposite Al Fahidi Fort).
Jumeirah Archeological site, close to Jumeirah Beach Park.
Picturesque and exotic Burj Nahar, with its watchtowers and gardens.
Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Beach
Deira’s Covered Souk and Spice Souk
The Gold Souk
Historic town of Hatta (outside the city).
Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum's House
Dating back to the late 1800s, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum's House on Al Shindagha Road is one of the oldest residences in Dubai.
Burj Al Arab, the famous sail-shaped seven-star hotel.
Burj Dubai, the tallest tower in the world.
The shopping malls see "Insider Information" below.
English is widely spoken and understood here. Dubai’s two halves, Deira and Bur Dubai, are divided by The Creek. Deira is the old city centre, with more historic sights. Use a water taxi (Abra) to cross The Creek; choose between oar-power or powered boat; cheap fares, great sights, available 24 hours. The Dhow Wharf gives a glimpse into times past. Go to Al-Ghurair City in Deira for fine, traditional Emirati clothing. For designer labels and luxury items: Burjamen Centre. Deira City Centre has a huge range of international "high-street" shops. The Mall of the Emirates has almost everything (including international chains and luxury shopping). You can even ski here. Dubai Festival City is another vast shopping mall with many international names; waterside setting; Abra rides The multi-themed Ibn Battuta is perhaps the most interesting mall (Indian, Chinese, Egyptian, Andalusian, Persian, Tunisian). Get around it on a golf cart. If you visit Dubai during Ramadan, remember not to eat, drink or smoke in any public place between sunrise and sunset, and be aware that most restaurants and cafés will be closed during the day.
» See more Dubai Accommodation Deals
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