Top Old and New Attractions to Experience in Dubai

If you're planning a cruise to the thriving Arab emirate of Dubai, you might be wondering what's on offer to keep you busy during your break. And you're likely to find there's much to see and do.



This wealthy nation, located in the Arabian Desert, south of the Persian Gulf, is a warm metropolis boasting an eclectic mix of old and new. A cultural hotspot, you'll find plenty of examples of Arabian living interspersed with contemporary buildings, as well as a marina glittering with skyscrapers. These vast structures are tangible illustrations of the emirate's prosperity, which has boomed in recent years. One in particular, however, has become something of a tourist attraction, and you should be sure to visit on a break in Dubai.

The Burj Khalifa skyscraper is the tallest building in the world, reaching 2,716 ft into the air. Not only is the structure a marvel to behold; it also provides an opportunity to travel up to its lofty heights and take in some breathtaking views. Make your way up to level 124 and as you travel you can take in a multimedia presentation about the building and the history of Dubai before reaching the pinnacle and being treated to spectacular vistas.

For a completely contrasting experience, journey back in time next with a visit to the old Bastakiya district in the south. The area is full of narrow streets and tall wind towers, which were once the only means of cooling homes in the district. It's also where you'll find Al Fahidi Fort, parts of which date back to the 1700s.

Inside the old fortress is the Dubai Museum, home to all kinds of fascinating exhibits relating to desert life, as well as excavated artefacts, musical instruments and weapons.

Meanwhile, if you're hoping to sample some Arabian culture when you visit the emirate, you'll find nowhere better to do so than at the souks. Souk translates to market and there are several well-known ones in Dubai.

The emirate is often referred to as the shopping capital of the Middle East, so you'll find countless malls as well as markets to visit. The Deira Covered Souk is a must for visitors to the area, however, as you'll get to see local traders at work and mingle with the natives. Here you can shop for textiles, spices, henna and kitchen wares, while the nearby Deira Spice Souk is full of fantastic aromas drifting from the sacks cut open by stallholders. Also in the vicinity is the famous Gold Souk, where it's possible to find all sorts of items crafted from the precious metal at often amazing prices.

Dubai is a fantastic mix of old and new, but why not find out for yourself?

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