Discovering Dubai Beyond The Glitz And Glamour

As one of the richest and most sophisticated cities in the world, Dubai has earned a reputation as a luxury travel destination, famous for its scintillating skyline, oversized shopping malls, lavish lifestyle and the exclusive experiences it offers. But as with all other popular tourist spots, there’s a lot more to Dubai than meets the eye and a lot more you can discover should you care to look beyond the surface.

Of course, there’s nothing wrong with staying on the beaten path and doing what all tourists do when visiting Dubai. After all, no one ever complained about admiring breathtaking views from atop the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, visiting the attractions along the Dubai Marina, or dining at one of Dubai’s many Michelin-starred restaurants.

However, a trip to a location that offers such a wide variety of unique attractions and experiences should involve more than ticking a few iconic landmarks off the list and following the tourist crowd.

You should always leave some room for spontaneity and try to carve your own path when traveling, if you want to make your journey more meaningful and come back home with your heart full. Before you head out to discover Dubai beyond the glitz and glamour, be sure to search for eSIM tourist in Dubai and consult the available options so you can select a suitable eSIM plan and enjoy seamless connectivity throughout your trip.

Souk shopping

Everyone knows that Dubai is a heaven for shopping enthusiasts, being home to some of the largest and most extravagant malls. These sprawling retail complexes provide everything from world-renowned brands to cafes, fine dining restaurants and numerous entertainment options.

But if you want to enjoy a more authentic experience and feel Dubai’s old-world charm, we suggest you swap the typical shopping mall spree with an exploration of Dubai’s souks and traditional markets. Meander through the colourful and fragrant alleyways of the Gold, Spice, Perfume, and Textile Souks, where you’ll find a mesmerizing selection of traditional goods and items. And be ready to haggle if you want to get a better price.

Al Qudra cycle path

If the temperatures are mild enough and spending time outdoors is not unbearable, you can venture into the desert on a bike. The Al Qudra cycle path is located 40 minutes from Downtown Dubai and consists of an 86-kilometre-long cycling tail surrounded by a stunning landscape of sand dunes, so you can catch amazing views of the desert while pedalling. You don’t have to be a versed cyclist to enjoy the ride, so don’t hesitate to give it a try. After all, how often do you get to cycle in the desert?

Camel racing

Many countries have a traditional sport that locals are fond of. For the UAE and, consequently, for Dubai, this is camel racing. They even have a camel racing festival held yearly between October and April, so if you happen to be visiting during this period, you might want to check it out.

The most prestigious event of this kind takes place at Al Marmoom Camel Race Track where locals and visitors gather to see the exhilarating races, giving you the opportunity to witness this heritage Arab sport first hand. Entry is free and entertainment is guaranteed.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

In a land dominated by interminable stretches of sand and arid terrain, the last thing one expects to see is thriving flora and fauna, but that’s exactly what you’ll find at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. Not far from the city centre, this sanctuary emerges as an unexpected oasis where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the urban jungle and enjoy some peace and quiet surrounded by nature and wildlife.

The wetland spans 6.2sqm and comprises a diversity of ecosystems, including mangroves, mudflats, and lagoons that host 266 species of fauna and 47 of flora. Seeing the flamboyant flamingos against the city backdrop makes for a truly unique view.

Al Qudra Lake

If you want to get your nature fix outside the city quarters, you should head to Al Qudra Lake, situated in the heart of the Al Marmoom Desert, at a short 30-minute drive from Dubai. The lake spreads across 10 hectares, with shrubs and plants growing around it, contrasting with the golden dunes that stretch beyond. The crystal-clear waters and abundant greenery attract wildlife and offer a nice change of pace from the bustling city life, making it a perfect spot if you’re craving a more laid-back escape. You can enjoy a variety of activities in the area and even go camping.

Jebel Ali Beach

Dubai beaches are famous around the world for their fine white sand, stylish amenities, and charming views, but as expected, most of them are swamped with tourists enjoying the high life. Fortunately, there are also less populated beaches where you can relax and spend some time in solitude, and Jebel Ali Beach is one of them.

You’ll come across this relatively secluded spot about 30 minutes from the Dubai Marina, near the border with Abu Dhabi. The beach is perfect for water sports like kite surfing and windsurfing, but you can also just chill and admire the serene beauty of this beautiful beach.

Al Fahidi Fort

Dubai also has a rich history that many people are not aware of, and Al Fahidi Historic District gives you the opportunity to take a step back in time and find out about Dubai’s fascinating past, before it became the modern business hub and tourist magnet we know today.

This heritage site dates back to the 19th century, being established by Persian merchants who turned it into a thriving trade centre. Today, you can meander through its winding alleyways, admire the intricate traditional architecture and learn about the local lifestyle and culture at one of the several museums housed by the historic complex.