Tourism in Dubai
Tourism in Dubai is a growing industry and the emirate is a popular destination for international tourists. The country’s political system has also influenced the way the tourism industry has developed, with many challenges facing the region in the future. For example, the authoritarian political structure of the UAE can limit the opportunities for the tourism industry, as it may discourage foreign investment in the region.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is a modern, oil-export-driven city in the United Arab Emirates. The city sits on an island in the Persian Gulf. It features a sleek skyline and shopping malls. Visitors should not miss the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque with its Persian carpet and crystal chandeliers. This mosque can hold over 41,000 people for prayer.
Before the discovery of oil in the region, Abu Dhabi was a small fishing village with a population of just 5,000. Increasing oil revenues have helped to transform the city’s lifestyle and improve living standards. Visitors will find the Emiratis friendly and hospitable. They welcome visitors from diverse cultures, and are tolerant of their differences. Cultural events such as camel races are common, and attract tourists from around the world.
The UAE government has been working on enhancing Abu Dhabi’s tourism industry, including its cultural offerings. The government has set up an Abu Dhabi Tourism Authority (ADTA) in an effort to promote tourism and cultural heritage internationally. The authority has been implementing significant initiatives that will boost the emirate’s appeal. For example, the country’s new Saadiyat Island Cultural District will allow visitors to visit Abu Dhabi’s museums and cultural institutions.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most beautiful and well-known sights in Abu Dhabi. The mosque is one of the largest in the world and can hold up to 40,000 worshipers. It is named for Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the former ruler of Abu Dhabi and the founder of the Emirati union.
Al-Ahmadiya School
Once a semi-formal private school in Al Ras, Dubai, Al-Ahmadiya School is now a museum owned by the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority. It was built in the 1960s and is a popular tourist destination. The museum is filled with photos, artifacts, and other objects from the school’s past.
This educational institution was founded in 1921 by Mr. Ahmadiyya and attracted the most renowned scientists from all over the region. From 1912 until 1958, the school maintained a high standard of education. It was later renovated and reopened as a museum in 1995. The museum offers a unique chance to view the remnants of Dubai’s glorious past. Among the many exhibits you can see, the Heritage House, a replica of an 1890s home, contains traditional furniture, household items, clothes, toys, and jewelry.
Visiting Al-Ahmadiya School will give you a glimpse into the history of education in the United Arab Emirates. It has an exhibit of traditional writing instruments, classrooms, and other items that showcase the history of education in the city. You will also be able to view the school’s historical documents, photographs, and student certificates. It is located near Al Khor Street, which runs parallel to the Dubai Creek.
During its early years, the school had 300 students. Most students studied for free, while the rich paid a nominal fee of three to five Indian rupees.
Gold Souk
The Gold Souk is located in the Old Town of Dubai, across from Bur Dubai. The best way to reach the souks is by taking an abra, which is a traditional boat that traverses the Dubai Creek. Since the early days of the city’s history, abras have moved merchants and trading goods from market to market. This tradition lives on today.
The Gold Souk in Dubai is not only a place to buy gold, but there are plenty of other activities to enjoy. Aside from shopping for gold, visitors can take a stroll along the creek, stroll the promenade, or enjoy the local food. Be sure to try the local “Shwarma” and the traditional drink of Sulaimani tea.
The Gold Souk is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Dubai. The Souk is home to over 380 retailers, most of whom are jewelry merchants. At least 10 tons of gold is restocked here every day. The Souk has become internationally famous, and is a must-visit for any visitor to the city. You can even purchase a world-famous ring here – the largest ring ever sold in the world weighed 64 kilograms and was owned by a man named Taiba.
While you’re in the Souk, don’t forget to haggle. Most of the vendors speak English and are eager to share their knowledge about their items. You can haggle for 30% of the price with most sellers.
Burj Khalifa
Before its inauguration in 2010, the Burj Khalifa was known as Burj Dubai. It’s a skyscraper located in Dubai. The Dubai Investment Authority was responsible for building the tower. Today, the tower is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai.
At the top of the Burj Khalifa, guests can experience a mesmerizing view of Downtown Dubai. The restaurant at the top offers a three-course set menu. You can also take a Fountain tour. Tickets for these tours start at AED20.
If you are a tourist in Dubai, don’t miss the chance to experience the world’s tallest building! The Burj Khalifa is one of the city’s top tourist attractions, as it dominates the city skyline. Visitors will get an unmatched view of the Arabian Gulf and the city below. At the Top Sky Lounge is located on the 148th floor.
Another attraction in Downtown Dubai is the Dubai Mall. It’s home to the world’s tallest fountain, the Dubai Fountain, and the Dubai Opera. Other major attractions in the area include the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, the Dubai Ice Rink, and KidZania. There are also plenty of shopping malls and entertainment options, including a Disney land. You can even find a circus in Dubai.
If you’re traveling to Dubai, be sure to check out the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Standing 828 meters high, this building offers spectacular views of the city and the surrounding area. It is also home to over 900 residential units, ranging from studios to four-bedroom units. The interiors of the apartments are elegant and spacious, featuring dark-stained floors and high-end luxury fixtures. Residents enjoy access to fitness facilities, gourmet shops, and outdoor and indoor swimming pools.
Dubai Museum
The Dubai Museum tells the story of the city’s development. Located inside a restored fort, it shows how the city grew from a pearling village to a global center of commerce. It also features art galleries highlighting the city’s heritage and culture. Artifacts on display date back to 3000 BC.
The museum also features many dioramas that depict life in the city before the discovery of oil. The displays include replicas of historic Arab houses, mosques, souks, date farms, and more. There’s also a video that shows how the city looked hundreds of years ago. Whether you’re interested in the history of Dubai or just want to see the works of the craftspeople, the Dubai Museum will provide you with a memorable experience.
The museum is open seven days a week, with extended hours on Fridays and Saturdays. The entrance fee is AED3 per adult and AED1 for children. The museum is located a half-mile north of the Al Fahidi metro station. During the summer, you can expect a high level of humidity, so plan your visit accordingly.
For the cheapest rates, use public transportation. The nearest stations are Al Ghubaiba and Al Fahidi. A rental car is also available from many tour operators.
IMG Worlds of Adventure
If you are looking for an indoor theme park in Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure is a great option. The park features five different adventure zones and covers 1.5 million square feet. It has over 20 rides and attractions for visitors of all ages. The theme park is also known for its VIP packages.
The rides at IMG Worlds of Adventure feature spine-tingling thrills and excitement. They include rides featuring MARVEL superheroes and Cartoon Network characters. The park also features a 12-screen cinema and premium dining outlets. There are also interactive fun rides like the Haunted Hotel, the Avengers Flight of the Quinjets, and Thor Thunder Spin.
The park features two rollercoasters. The Velociraptor is the longest outdoor coaster with a 90-degree drop. It starts inside before launching you outside. Guests can experience a thrill ride full of twists and tickles on this ride. Another exciting ride is the Haunted Hotel, where ghosts and scary creatures lurk.
There are also fast-track tickets available, which help you bypass long queues at various attractions and rides. You can choose to purchase one or more of these tickets, or choose to get all of them at once. IMG Worlds of Adventure is open 365 days a year. However, there are peak seasons and holidays when queues can be long.