ubai can be a place where your feet may leave, but your heart will always stay. Across the expanse of the Arabian desert, Dubai boasts a world of extraordinary experiences: the world’s tallest structure, ultra-modern shopping malls, high-tech communications, luxury hotels, golden beaches and flaming sunsets.

The Emirate is situated on the south-eastern coast of the Arabian Gulf. It is an extremely rewarding place to visit. It’s a treasure trove of marine magic, where nights hold as much promise as days. One of the world’s most desolate and scorching deserts has been transformed into a flourishing oasis, easing the weariness of travellers. From architectural marvels that grace the Emirate to enchanting souks and thrilling safari adventures, Dubai offers an unforgettable glimpse into beautiful Middle Eastern culture.

Although Dubai is a metropolis of skyscrapers, the Burj Khalifa stands out with its fascinating structure. Almost twice the height of the Empire State Building, it offers a commanding view of the bustling city below. The faint noise from nearby fountains, coupled with the gleaming glass of this eloquently crafted structure, creates a heavenly mix that slowly fills one with awe.

Visitors from around the world flock to see this iconic building and are mesmerised by it. This celebrated structure illuminating the Dubai skyline reminds us that empires are not built in a day. This majestic feat of engineering, drawing design inspiration from a desert flower, took six years and the hard work of approximately 12,000 skilled workers who worked tirelessly to make this cutting-edge high-tech project a success.

In addition to its extravagant towers, Dubai offers the charm and vibrancy of local souks. These melting pots of colours and flavours are among the best places to discover the hidden gems of Arabia. Arabia has been a hub of trade since ancient times. This tradition of selling exotic wares still thrives in the souks. While wandering through the maze of alleyways, visitors come across piles of colourful spices stacked near pavements, glittering Arabian lamps, highly prized decorative baskets and mats and stalls of frankincense, the most celebrated natural product of Arabia. Souks are generally busy places packed with enchanted tourists enjoying the rich heritage.

In close vicinity to the world of colours lies the world of fragrance. The strong and spicy aromas of Arabian perfumes and aromatic oils offer quite an overwhelming experience. Most souks have vendors offering a wide range of bespoke perfumes that are extremely delightful to the senses.

In close vicinity to the world of colour lies the world of fragrance. The strong and spicy aromas of Arabian perfumes and aromatic oils offer quite an overwhelming experience. 

Riding majestic camels through the breath-taking beauty of golden sands connects one with the soul of the Arabian desert. Alongside camel rides, this captivating destination offers various activities such as dune bashing, sand boarding and floating peacefully over Dubai in a hot air balloon.

Today, Dubai is renowned for its unique architecture, a reputation that dates back about a hundred years to the thriving fishing village of Bastakiya along the creek. Bastakiya was famed for its wind towers and early forms of air conditioning. These towers enhanced architectural charm and captured cooler air from these buildings, channelling it down for natural cooling, predating sophisticated air conditioning systems.

The narrow lanes of Bastakiya funnelled cool breeze. Shaded courtyards added to its allure. Nearby, the creek with traditional wooden dhows evokes timeless tales and a sense of magic. With this rich cultural tapestry, falling in love with Dubai is almost inevitable.

Dubai was once a modest fishing village. Development began in the 1970s. It garnered global recognition for its spectacular mega-projects in the 2000s. During this period, Dubai also displayed forward-thinking by relaxing its property laws, which had previously prohibited foreigners from buying real estate.

In 2008, Dubai faced a severe financial crisis that significantly impacted its commercial sector and triggered a major debt crisis, leaving the Emirate with approximately $120 billion in debt. Property prices plummeted and some projects, including man-made islands, remained unfinished.

Ultimately, Dubai was bailed out by Abu Dhabi, a petroleum powerhouse. Today, Dubai has refocused on its hospitality, tourism, and real estate strengths. The renewed focus has driven significant growth in these sectors and spurred the development of sustainable cities with comprehensive planning across the Emirate.

Arrivals from Europe, China and Russia have significantly bolstered Dubai’s tourism sector, helping the city maintain its position as a thriving and multifaceted tourism hotspot. Dubai’s tourism strategy is focused on attracting visitors through excellent services while also emphasising sustainable practices to protect natural resources.

Initially, a modest community relying on fishing, date-picking and maritime trade, Dubai has transformed through resilience and dedication. It has evolved into a key Middle Eastern entrepot and a globally famous tourist destination, where visitors can quickly, in the words of Ella Mailart, “Wander Often, Wonder Always.”

The writer is a freelance journalist