Dubai : City of Gold

Back in February, I decided to shoot out to Dubai to get out of the US to explore the international space since covid had closed everything down for 2 years. As it turns out, February/March is the perfect time to go! Weather-wise, it was around 70-80 degrees Fahrenheit, however, if you go in the summer, expect anywhere from 100-120 degrees. Safety wise, this is probably one of the safest (and maybe cleanest) cities I’ve ever been to. The government is very strict here with good reason, therefore, the crime rates are very low.

I stayed 8 days here, however, by the end, I felt like it wasn’t enough to cover everything. Definitely stay longer, & check out the tips below if you’re headed there in the near future!

How to get to the UAE:

I flew from Los Angeles to DXB via Emirates Business Class

(blog post on this travel hack coming soon!), but the following are other flight options to look into!:

-Emirates flies direct from US to Dubai ($800-$1000 USD RT Economy)

-look for local discounts on the emirates app if you fly with them

-Etihad flies direct from US to Abu Dhabi with a free shuttle taking you to Dubai (about 2-3 hours)

As soon as you land and clear immigration, you are given a 24 hr sim card which you can reload for another 30 days (about ~$20 USD)

Where to stay:

Studio M Arabian Plaza

$86/night

Without a doubt, Dubai is home to the finest 5-7 star hotels on the planet. However, we opted to stay outside the main area of the city and chose this hotel for the modern vibes & proximity to the metro (5 min walk to Al Quyiada Metro Station + the Airport). Be sure to communicate with the staff & ask for a non-smoking room before arrival, or you may be left waiting for another room to open up like we did.

-Perks: Small Gym, Pool, a Restaurant Grab & Go Food downstairs in the lobby for if you get hungry

-there are 2 grocery stores + plenty of restaurants within walking distance that are also open late

How to get around:

Most of the time take the metro and hop on a taxi from the closest station.

-$30 USD Unlimited 7-day Pass on the local metro (which is open until 11pm + super nice with their art installations btw!)

-Taxi or Rideshare (via Uber or Careem apps)

-Tips:

-Use google maps to get around.

-do not enter the first metro car (for women only) & do not eat food inside the cars or you will be fined

-Do not j-walk or take chances. My New York friend, and I - being from the bay - would normally clear any street without a sweat, but did not take a chance here. There are literally high-tech cameras EVERYWHERE. The government may put a fine on your name before you leave the UAE

Eateries:

From Kabobs to Hummus, you won't go wrong looking for middle-eastern food at every corner. However, if you're in the mood to expand your palate, check out the following places:

-Time Out Market next to the Dubai Fountain: -This place has a variety of food from italian to indian to BBQ, you can't go wrong with finding something here (especially if you're looking to satisfy a craving for asian food)

-Kynd Restaurant

-Egyptian: Meat pies at مقابل مسجد فاطمة الزرعونى down the block from our hotel were fire!

What to do:

Ride to the top of the Burj Khalifa - book your tickets early to visit the observation deck, if not, catch the sunrise slot on the weekend before 7 AM ($42 USD) + grab a free drink + croissant at their in-house cafe on the way out

Global Village - This place is a MUST VISIT especially if you’re a foodie! It’s basically like a giant “Disneyland” where they take the very best of all the cultures of the world to bring them together. Each segment is a different country of the world where you can shop/eat/experience a taste of that country. Some of my favorites include visiting Japan and the Floating Market in the middle of the square. There's even a carnival and an entertainment stage where Urban Crew from America's Best Dance Crew was stationed. Entrance fee is only $5.

The Dubai Fountain: Wait at the bridge by the Time Out Market to experience the water show which occurs every 30 minutes. You can also ride an abra (traditional boat) during this time for about 65 AED/$18 USD to get up close and personal!

Museum of the Future: During the day, this place is great, but at night it's definitely a spectacle to behold as it's lit so intricately!

Desert Safari: ATV riding + sand boarding + middle eastern dinner + ride a camel + a show ($30) -This is one of the more thrilling experiences of our trip! Be prepared and load up on some dramamine if rollercoasters aren't really your thing. Your driver may send you on the verge of a panic attack, but just relax and enjoy the ride ;)

Abu Dhabi Half-Day Tour $30 -Date Market -Heritage Village: experience a historical taste of the old Abu Dhabi + walk along the beach where there's crystal clear waters! -Emirates Palace Hotel (Drive-By) - Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque -You have to be covered head to toe before entering, however you can buy attire at the mall that connects to the mosque before you enter for $15 USD.

Ride Dubai Eye Ferris Wheel aka the Tallest Ferris Wheel in the World on Blue Waters Island

JBR Beach - literally the "Hawai'i" of Dubai. Come here for a beach day especially in the spring and stroll along the island bridge to Blue Waters Island. Perfect weather and sunsets - you wont regret it!

Dubai Miracle Garden: With over 150 million florals of all colors and sizes, you will not regret stopping by here to get some fresh air and admire the artistry! Bring a boo or your family and find the Emirates plane in the middle of the garden! ($20 USD entrance fee)

Dubai Garden Glow If you love anything that shines, this is your place. It's a great place for families & they even have a dinosaur park as well! Entry fee is ~$20 USD