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Located in the Middle East and influenced by Islam, Dubai is one of the seven United Arab Emirates in the southern Persian Gulf (Arabian Peninsula). Unlike other Muslim-majority areas, Dubai is a paradise in the desert, a blend of towering skyscrapers and a modern lifestyle. It is also one of the few cities in the world with automated gold vending machines. If you only have 24 hours to explore or a short time while waiting for a connecting flight in Dubai, you can refer to some of the plans below.
Go up to the observation deck.
From the 124th floor, visitors have the opportunity to admire a panoramic view of modern Dubai in the Middle East. Photo: EPA
One of the perfect ways to explore the modern city is to go up to the observation deck on the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa – the world's tallest building at 828 meters. Tickets to the observation deck cost approximately $40 for one hour. At sunset, this increases to $55 and is valid for 1.5 hours. Children under 3 years old are free.
Visit the world's largest fountain.
The water jets from the fountains can reach heights of up to 125 meters. Photo: Amusing Planet
Next to the Burj Khalifa skyscraper, you can easily find your way to the Dubai Fountain – the world's largest fountain project, costing $218 million. The fountain is always brightly lit, synchronized with electronic music for a variety of shows. Water jets can reach heights of up to 125 meters, cascading rhythmically to the music. On windy nights, be sure to choose a seat further away to avoid getting soaked after the show.
Parachute fromplane
The plane will drop you from a height of 4,000 meters above sea level. Photo: Howesdubai
An adventurous yet exciting activity, you can try freefall parachuting from a plane to get a panoramic view of Palm Jumeirah – an artificial archipelago owned by Dubai. Designed in the shape of a giant palm tree, this island is considered one of the world's most perfect man-made structures when viewed from the air. The plane will take you up to an altitude of approximately 4,000 meters and drop you down onto Palm Jumeirah beach. The price per ride is around $60 USD.
Go to the gold market.
The quality of gold at the market is always under strict control by the Dubai government. Photo: Flashpackatforty
At any given time, the amount of gold in Dubai's Gold Souq is approximately 10 tons. The scene is always dazzling with gold and bustling with bargaining between customers and over 300 vendors. Dubai's Gold Souq is currently considered one of the cheapest places in the world to buy gold.
Although still affected by exchange rates, tourists are generally advised to bargain when shopping here. The Dubai government has also enacted strict regulations to manage the quality of gold in the market and frequently conducts surprise inspections to prevent fraud. To reach this unique market, you can travel by public transport, most commonly by bus.
Explore the spice market.
Strolling through the narrow alleyways, the aroma of spices will stimulate your sense of smell. Photo: Christopher Suttenfield
Just a two-minute walk from the gold market, the Spice Souq is a hub showcasing all kinds of spices, and as you stroll through the narrow alleys, you'll easily encounter their aromas. The pungent scent of white frankincense combined with ginger and green lime will stimulate your taste buds and sense of smell, making you crave them. Some stalls even display a plethora of colorful dried chilies alongside sacks full of lavender petals.
Eat and drink
Falafel in Dubai is made primarily from chickpeas, olive oil, sesame seeds, lime juice, and garlic. Photo: Timeoutdubai
With over 80% of its population being foreigners (primarily from the US and Europe), Dubai still maintains a strong Middle Eastern culture, most notably in its cuisine. Dubai's dishes also draw influences from countries like Iran, Lebanon, and Arabia. Some snacks worth trying include...esh asarya(cheesecake with cream topping) orfalafel(The name of an appetizer made from chickpeas, olive oil, sesame seeds, lime juice, and garlic). And here are some main courses in Dubai that you shouldn't miss:ghuzi(roasted lamb) oral harees(Wheat mixed with salt and stuffed with meat).
