Explore the Amber Dunes and Blue Waters of Dubai

In recent years, Dubai has become one of the hottest, most sought-after tickets for traveling abroad. And who can blame these adventure seekers for wanting to visit Dubai? Offering everything between gorgeous beaches along the azure waters of the Persian Gulf to lush desert landscapes, Dubai has anything and everything for the millennial traveler, from cultural fulfillment to family-friendly activities for all ages. Recently, our social media manager explored the rich culture and allure of Dubai for an in-depth look at what the city has to offer.

If you think you’d like to visit Dubai, here are some recommendations for your trip.

4×4 Desert Safari

Booking a ride on one of the 4×4 desert excursions is sure to provide the quintessential Arabian experience as you race over amber desert dunes, get up close and personal with camels, go sandboarding, and partake in a traditional fireside feast. The 4×4 ride is not for the faint of heart, however, and it’s recommended to bring motion sickness pills just in case. When you have views like this desert landscape, a little motion sickness is well worth it.

Burj Al Arab

While most won’t be able to afford the price tag on a stay at the Burj Al Arab, it’ll be hard to miss this Dubai gem while you’re taking in some beach time. The only seven-star hotel in the world — complete with its own helipad — you can still appreciate the architectural design and beauty from the ground. (It’s shaped like the sail of a boat.) If you’re not staying in the hotel, you can still book a dinner reservation or even afternoon tea to get a brief taste of the luxury.

Burj Khalifa

As the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa will be hard to miss no matter where you are in the area. Topping out at 2,722 feet, you can spend a considerable amount of time waiting in lines to head to one of the observation decks, or you can take the veteran move and grab dinner at one of the restaurants in the Dubai Mall. (Don’t think “food court.”) There, you’ll have a perfect view of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain show, the world’s largest, most beautiful performing fountain.

Day Trip to Oman

One of the benefits of Dubai is its proximity to other locations, such as Oman. Don’t forget your passport as you’ll need to cross the border into Oman, but when there you can book an unforgettable “dhow” sailboat ride that takes you along the rocky-peaked, fjord-like inlets off the coastline of the Musandam Peninsula.

Don’t want to just sit in the boat the whole time? Book yourself on a snorkeling or dolphin sightseeing tour in the green-blue waters.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Just down the Persian Gulf from Dubai is Abu Dhabi, where you can visit the exquisite Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. There’s free entry, but be warned that there’s a strict dress code.

Not to worry, though, about the dress code because they provide traditional abayas — a loose robe-like dress — free of charge. While the exterior of the Sheikh Zayed is certainly something to behold, the carpet in the main prayer room is the largest single piece of handmade carpet in the world.

Zero Gravity Club Resort

If rest and relaxation is more your thing, you’ll be hard-pressed to find anything more tranquil to unwind in than the beaches and resorts up and down the coast. Using the Daypass app, you can browse a list of different resorts and private beaches to find the perfect spot to take in the sights and sun, like the club resort at Zero Gravity.

Do you have any tips from your own vacation in Dubai? Let us know in the comments below. Are you thinking about going to visit Dubai yourself, or know someone who is? Please SHARE this with your friends.