Hear about travel to Dubai and the United Arab Emirates as the Amateur Traveler talks about an unexpected trip to the region.
Why should you visit the UAE?
The United Arab Emirates is an odd combination of new and old. It is a multi-cultural country where 90% of the people who live there are guest workers from around the world. It is very modern, but if you look closely, you can find historic sites.
Travel on this trip was sponsored by United Airlines. They wanted me to review their Polaris Business class as a solo international traveler.
Here’s the itinerary that Chris recommends based on his trip to Dubai and the UAE:
Day 1: Arrival & Exploring Old Dubai
- Stay near Dubai Creek (Chris stayed at the Arabian Courtyard Hotel and Spa).
- Explore Dubai Creek:
- Walk through the old market near the creek.
- Visit the Al Seef district, a modern area designed to look traditional.
- See wind towers, a historic cooling system in traditional Emirati architecture.
- Visit Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding:
- Learn about Emirati culture, clothing, and traditions.
- Take an Abra (boat) across Dubai Creek (cost: ~1 dirham).
- Explore Deira’s Gold Souk and Spice Souk:
- Browse the gold shops and traditional spice markets.
Day 2: Downtown Dubai & Burj Khalifa
- Visit Burj Khalifa:
- Book tickets online in advance (entry is through Dubai Mall).
- Go up to the 124th floor for panoramic views.
- Explore Dubai Mall:
- One of the largest malls in the world, with luxury shopping and dining.
Day 3: Musandam Peninsula (Oman Day Trip)
- Day trip to Musandam Peninsula (Oman):
- Requires passport for border crossing.
- Activities: boat tour, snorkeling, banana boat rides, and jet boat rides.
- Dramatic fjord-like landscapes.
- Return to Dubai in the evening.
Day 4: Abu Dhabi
- Take a bus (or guided tour) from Dubai to Abu Dhabi (~2-hour ride).
- Explore Abu Dhabi Corniche:
- Walk along the beautiful beachfront promenade.
- Possible activities: rent a bike or scooter.
- Visit Qasr Al Hosn Fort (Abu Dhabi’s oldest structure):
- Learn about Abu Dhabi’s history.
- Optional: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (if taking a tour):
- One of the most stunning mosques in the world.
Day 5: Desert Safari with Platinum Heritage
- Eco-friendly desert safari:
- No dune bashing (to protect wildlife).
- Ride in a classic Land Rover.
- See Arabian Oryx, gazelles, and falcons.
- Attend a falconry demonstration:
- Learn about traditional falcon hunting in the UAE.
- Traditional Emirati Dinner at a Bedouin Camp:
- Camel ride experience.
- Authentic Emirati meal.
- Cultural dance performances.
- Stargazing and desert storytelling.
Day 6: Day Trip to Five Other Emirates
- Fujairah:
- Visit Fujairah Fort (built in the 1500s).
- Stop at Umbrella Beach.
- Sharjah:
- Visit the oldest mosque in the UAE
- Explore historical watchtowers.
- Ras Al Khaimah (RAK):
- Visit the old pearl diving village and cultural heritage park.
- Ajman:
- Explore the Ajman Museum inside an old fort.
- Umm Al Quwain:
- Sharjah:
- Visit the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization.
- Visit the Souk Al Arsah (traditional market in Sharjah).
- Explore the Gold Market in Sharjah.
Extra Recommendations (If More Time)
- Visit Al Ain (UNESCO Site in Abu Dhabi):
- Oasis town with ancient history.
- Enjoy Dubai’s beaches or luxury resorts.
- Experience Dubai’s nightlife or rooftop bars (if you are interested in luxury travel).
Transportation Notes
- Dubai Metro is cheap and efficient (~$1.50 per ride).
- Buses & Ubers work well between Emirates.
- Driving in the UAE is manageable but aggressive.
Summary of Chris’s UAE Experience
- Desert landscapes (Platinum Heritage tour).
- Multicultural atmosphere (90% of UAE residents are foreign workers).
- Modern skyscrapers (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall).
- Rich history (Old Dubai, Abu Dhabi Corniche, Ras Al Khaimah’s heritage sites).
- Luxury tourism focus (high-end malls, hotels, restaurants, and resorts).
This itinerary covers all seven Emirates in one week while balancing history, culture, adventure, and modern attractions.
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Show Notes
United flights from New York (EWR)
United flights from San Francisco (SFO)
United flights from Houston (IAH)
United Arab Emirates
Dubai
Arabian Courtyard Hotel and Spa
Al Seef
Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
Tour Discover Heart of Dubai’s Old Town, Heritage, Abra & Souqs
Musandam Cruises
Premium Heritage
6 Emirates Private Tour From Dubai In One Day
Community
I liked your podcast better when it was not longer than 40 minutes and with photos.
Rick
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