Dubai: Where ‘One Thousand and One Nights' comes alive

Dubai is without a doubt an oasis in the middle of a desert. With its skyscrapers, American-esque sprawling highways, international restaurants and shops, Dubai represents the Western face of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). For expats looking for a variety of cultures and religion with a high level of tolerance, the UAE is a popular spot.

The city of Dubai redefines luxury. The streets are clogged with Ferraris, Maseratis and Lamborghinis, while hotels offer incredible decorative details in gold and gigantic buildings are equipped with the latest technology. The entire city is a huge construction site as Arabs and international investors continue building new skyscrapers, the most iconic of those being the world-renowned Burj Khalifa or "Tower of the Caliph." The 828-meter and 163-story building takes its name from the Caliph Bin Zayid El-Nahyan. The building, which opened in 2010, is home to international offices, premium residential units, fancy restaurants and a five-star hotel called Armani. The hotel has an incredible view of Dubai and when you wake up in one of its Signature Suites, you can enjoy the view of a gigantic water fountain, which is inspired by the one erected at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas. After 8 p.m., you can dance to the rhythm of the fountain's moving waves every 30 minutes. It is incredible, and a very popular tourist attraction. Even if you don't stay at the Armani Hotel, the water show is still impressive from outside of the hotel. The hotel rooms are designed by Armani's Italian interior architects with the motto of "simplicity." Every single detail has gusto but is not too flashy. I especially liked the suede wall covers, which are very chic and stylish. In the bathroom, you will find a generous spread of Armani products. The hotel doesn't have access to the giant water garden but has its own indoor and outdoor swimming pool. There are five restaurants in the hotel but my top suggestion is Atmosphere located on the 122nd floor. It is the perfect spot to truly experience Burj Khalifa. There is a set menu with slightly higher prices compared to the Armani Hotel restaurants, but it definitely has a better view. Whether you are there for dinner or drinks, there is a minimum payment amount for this venue so be sure to make a reservation in advance.

If you are in the downtown area, a visit to the Dubai Mall is a must! The world's biggest shopping center hosts hundreds of world famous brands. Many hotels have free shuttle services to the mall but you can also get there by bus or taxi. You should visit the store called Patchi, which sells delicious dates that dazzle window shoppers with all the glitz and glamour of a jewelry store -- but don't be fooled. Inside, you will find boutique dates and gourmet chocolates for sale. Dates dipped in chocolate and garnished with walnuts or almonds will make your mouth water. Although very expensive, it is definitely worth it and this shop is the perfect place to buy gifts. Another gift option might be TGW teas. In a cute corner store in the Dubai Mall you will discover their mystique teas. I liked the nostalgic collection including the Weekend in Istanbul Tea, but my favorite was the Alfonso tea with blend of peach leaves. The teapots here are unique as well. Apart from gift store options, I would like to mention several restaurant recommendations in the mall. First, the Wafi Gourmet Restaurant has it all. This Lebanese restaurant offers a variety of kebabs, mezes and desserts, but the marinated lamb chops are the most popular. On the other hand, there are many American chain restaurants for those who miss American food including Red Lobster, the Cheesecake Factory and California Pizza Kitchen. After lunch or dinner don't forget to stop by the Dubai Aquarium in the mall.

If you are a quick shopper and the Dubai Mall doesn't satisfy your appetite, you can go to the Dubai Spice Market called "Souk." It is very close to another iconic building in Dubai called Burj Al-Arab. "Souk" has many oriental stores with spices, ornaments, rugs and more. The other option for shopping lovers is the Mall of the Emirates, which has the only indoor skiing in the world -- but do not be surprised, for you are in Dubai.

Actually, before visiting the towering skyscrapers and super-malls, going on a safari is one of the main attractions in Dubai. Fighting with sand hills in the desert in an SUV is a real adventure. On the way to the desert, you stop by a gas station to release the air from your tires so that you won't sink in the sand. In the gas station, where all SUVs come together before the safari, you can see people with pet eagles who will even let you take a photo with the bird before going on your safari. This is quite scary, but interesting nonetheless. Since it is a very bumpy ride, pregnant women and elderly past the age of 70 are not allowed to join the safari. Most tours are held at 6 p.m. or 6 a.m. because the brutal heat doesn't allow you to go at any other time. So, if you attend an afternoon session, you must arrive at the safari entrance before your adventure so you can take pictures of the sunset before your 30-minute bumpy car ride begins. Hold on tight because you are about to arrive in an oasis for dinner. The oasis area is literally in the middle of the desert. Rugs are on the floor, tents are around, people are riding camels.... it is a real scene out of "One Thousand and One Nights." After being served Middle Eastern food in an open buffet, you can enjoy belly dance shows with Arabic music. Also, local shisha is available for heavy tobacco lovers.

When it comes to diving and swimming, the UAE is a heaven as well. I would suggest that you visit after October since the heat is a little bit more tolerable. Most of the Jumeirah Road hotels have beach and ocean access. On the other hand, there are special boat tours to the islands for those with diving experience. Nikki Beach and many other luxury beach clubs are available as well. I think that Dubai's ocean never gets cold. So, don't be disappointed if you are expecting to run from the hot sand to the refreshing water. The water is quite warm, but you can still enjoy it. The sand is white like baby powder and the turquoise ocean has many tropical fish.

If you still have time in the UAE, I would suggest that you visit the main emirates of the country called Abu-Dhabi. The second Louvre Museum in the world after Paris is going to open in this city very soon. As a touristic attraction, Ferrari World is a must-see spot. On the other hand, there are many historical mosques too. As you can understand, the UAE has a lot to offer. With its glamour, natural beauty and cultural heritage you should visit the UAE and treat yourself to a true 'Arabian Nights' experience.

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