Tips & Tricks
Al Fahidi Fort and Dubai Museum (Al Fahidi Street, Dubai) — the fort dates back to the 18th century (acting as the oldest existing building in Dubai). It houses interesting archeological finds as spears, khanjar knives and cannons along with various artifacts from African and Asian countries that traded with Dubai traders. Admission: AED 3 […]
Even though the area now known as Dubai bore archeological evidence suggesting that settlements there went back to the Bronze Age, this trading hub as it’s known today got its humble beginning in the early 19th century. In 1833, some 800 members of the Bani Yas tribe, led by the Maktoum Family, settled at the […]
Ashwaq (Al Soor and Sikkat al-Khail Streets, Deira, Dubai) – given all the high-brow and fancy restaurants that dominate much of Dubai’s dining scene, this popular local spot is a break from all that. Ashwaq, located near the Gold Souq, serves up succulent lamb and garlic-laden chicken shwarma (like a mini doner kebab, from a […]
AL AIN NATIONAL MUSEUM (Al Jahili area, Hessa bint Mohamed Street – next to Al Ain Oasis, Abu Dhabi) — Standing next to the Eastern Fort in Al Ain, the National Museum compiles relics and illustrative findings from the Stone Age until the early days of the United Arab Emirates. To understand life and cultures […]
Abu Dhabi Mall (Tourist Club Area – connected to Beach Rotana Hotel, Abu Dhabi) — With over 200 shops and upwards of 25,000 visitors a day, restaurants on every floor, a children’s play area and a Cineplex, this is more than just a shopping destination. Look out for big name outlets like Paris Gallery, Areej […]
Buses (Dubai) — The public bus system is rarely used by Western expats, due to the convenience of taxis. The service is extremely cheap, but routes can be convoluted, journey times lengthy and times erratic. Timetables, prices and route maps are available from the main bus stations of Al Ghubaiba in Bur Dubai (+971 04 […]