The Dubai of the Future



Pleasure-seekers and investors alike love Dubai because it's a city that has stepped well into the 21st century. High-rise buildings tower all over the central main district. A brand new rail system will begin running by 2009. Big hotel chains like Hyatt, Hilton and Intercontinental have all set up operations there. In fact, if not for the desert setting and the palm trees, Dubai doesn't look very different from European capitals like Paris.

A Shopping Mecca

Shopaholics from all over the world make a constant beeline for Dubai, and it's not just because of the month-long Dubai Shopping Festival that has become an annual event. The government of the emirate implements special no-tax policies just for Dubai. That's how the Dubai Shopping Festival makes good on its promise of the best brands at the lowest prices; you won't have to pay tariffs on anything you find there.

And the fun doesn't just stop with the more than 40 malls dotted around Dubai. Souks - traditional Arabian markets - are still regular landmarks throughout the city. If you plan to go to the malls for high-end goods and brand names, the souks are also worth a visit for the old world goods and exotic items for sale there. From spices by the kilo or rare carved Arabian chest, your souvenirs will definitely be unique relics from Dubai.

Whether you're eyeing that cheap Chanel bag or practicing your haggling skills for the market, prepare your wallet. You'll have a hard time finding something that you won't want to buy. After you're done shopping, you could even pick up some treats from Starbucks or Cinnabon, just like you would have done back home.

Lots to See

Once you've satisfied your shopping list (or maxed out your credit cards), you may want to begin going around and seeing the rest of the city. Dubai is one area that has managed to achieve what few have successfully done: merge their modern image with their culture and heritage. Countless historical sites are scattered in and around Dubai, preserved to look like how they might have several hundred years ago.

Checking out Khor Dubai (Dubai Creek) is a great start. Lining the Creek are numerous wind towers from old Dubai, great examples of the exquisite Arabian architecture. Once you've gotten that first taste, head over to the 18th century Al Fahidi fort, which was converted into the Dubai Museum in 1971. It contains piles upon piles of artifacts from Old Dubaito give you a serious blast from the past.

Most other vacation destinations are only either staunchly traditional or uncompromisingly modern. Dubai is an exceptional city because it manages to blend both into a vacation experience that's unlike any other.