Whether you’re on your way to Europe, or you’ve made it the central focus of your next cruising
holiday, the Arabian Peninsula and in particular Dubai will not disappoint.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi have very quickly rocketed to the status of ‘hot’ destinations, and I don’t
think there are many people who would not recognise the iconic symbol of the Burj al Arab Hotel.
In the world of cruising, most ships sailing in these waters include at least a day’s call into Dubai,
and many offer overnight calls allowing you two full days to explore.
Perhaps better still, Dubai has become a major embarkation point for many cruise itineraries, as
this city and small Emirate beg your full attention.
Like Shanghai, Dubai is a destination with extreme contrasts. Turn left and you’ll be catapulted
into a world of man’s greatest architectural and engineering wonders, where you can enjoy High
Tea on the 123rd floor of the world’s tallest building, play and stay in the world’s first luxury
underwater hotel (under construction), or shop for designer names in one of the world’s largest
shopping malls which also features the world’s biggest indoor snow park with 5 ski runs. Turn right
and you’ll be surprised how well Arabian tradition blends seamlessly with progress.
Traditional souks (markets) filled with gold, textiles and spices can distract you for an entire day,
and there are plenty of historical sites that will transport you back in time, beautiful mosques that
dazzle the eye with mosaic designs, glass and domes, and Old Dubai with its narrow winding streets.
If you’re looking for sand, then Dubai offers uninterrupted beaches by warm waters, or you can
head deep into the desert to have dinner with a camel.
Your ship will dock at Port Rashid which boasts a modern cruise terminal. It’s great, with money
exchange, cafe/deli, free internet, ATM, duty free shopping, concierge, free shopping shuttles and
taxis. The terminal is located very close to the city. Just a few minutes taxi ride away gets you to
the souks and downtown. Down the coast, not too far are the Burj al Arab and Palm Jumeirah.
Roger’s Quick Tips
Best Months: October – May
Don’t Miss: 4×4 Desert Dune Dinner. Observation Deck at
the Burj Khalifa
Tour or Not: Easily done on your own with prior study
Sightseeing: Souks (markets), Dubai Museum and the
Grand Mosque
Food: Falafal, Hareis, Matchbous and Mehalabiya
Language: Arabic, but English is also widely spoken
Currency: Dirham
Shopping: Souks, malls, malls and more malls
Cash or Card: Cards and some local Dirham
