Category Archives: Middle East

Get Ready for the Dubai Summer Surprises, 2016

Prepare yourselves for the much-awaited summer filled with fun, entertainment and shopping options. The annual mega-event of Dubai called ‘Dubai Summer Surprises’ will be celebrated from 9th July to 20th August. This annual festival is backed by the Government of Dubai as the aim is to promote Dubai as an international summer destination.

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Dubai Summer Surprises signifies the true culture, art, history and traditions of the emirate. Tourists from all around the globe can participate in this event as it’ll offer them a unique and memorable experience.

Shop till you drop!

Dubai Summer Surprises is an exemplary platform for buying a plethora of products, ranging from durable goods to luxury commodities. The variety of products includes cars, clothes, perfumes and home decor. Great prizes, bargains and surprises are available too. People, who spend substantial amounts of money, get the chance to win BMW cars, heavily-loaded shopping vouchers and attractive discounts.

Music, Entertainment and Relaxation

Music buffs will love the atmosphere of this festival. This is simply because they will get the opportunity to watch musical performances by top musicians, singers and dancers – of course, at a price!  They can even be a part of innumerable Jazz Clubs and similar spots. People who love to watch theatre performances should visit Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre (DUCTAC). For destressing, there are many spas.

Fun-Packed Activities and Venues

Dubai Summer Surprises has something for everyone! Developed for children, ‘Modhesh World’ is a venue that has playgrounds, soft toy areas, latest video games and 4-D Cinema theatres. Teenagers and adults will get everything ranging from celebrity appearances to stage shows. Foodies will simply love the huge variety of cuisine. Through the gala ceremony, tourists will receive a rare insight into the history of Dubai.

General Perspective

Dubai Summer Surprises was launched in the summer of 1998 to propagate Dubai as a family-friendly destination. This event is scheduled annually from August to September. Interestingly, over the years, it has hosted more than 25 million guests. People from around the world come here to shop and have a lot of fun.

Top Attractions in Stunning Al Ain, UAE

Located just one and a half hour from Abu Dhabi, Al Ain waits to enchant you at every step. Reputed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it promises numerous picturesque vistas of natural beauty, wildlife and forts.

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One of the oldest permanently colonised settlements in the world, this mesmerising place will fill your heart with delight. So, come and explore the best of Al Ain.

Al Ain Zoo

Visit Al Ain Zoo to capture alluring moments with wildlife. From endemic mammals like Oryx and Arabian antelope to African gazelles and big cats such as tigers, pumas and lions, the zoo is popular as a home to a range of animals. Established in 1969, the zoo is an interesting place to explore.

Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum

The former home of UAE’s first president, Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum reveals the richness of history and culture. Meticulously restored, the palace reflects the style and essence of the place from the time when Sheikh Zayed lived there. Visit to get an idea of the life of the Sheikh.

Al Jahili Fort

Al Jahili Fort is a popular attraction, especially amongst history buffs. The fascinating fortress was built in the 1890s for the UAE’s founder, Sheikh Zayed. It was further expanded by the British in the 1950s. Come to marvel at the grandeur and royal appeal of the fort. Also, don’t miss to peek into the exhibition of photographs. The beautiful moments were captured by British explorer Sir Wilfred Thesiger in the 1940s.

Al Ain National Museum

Come here for a glimpse into the everyday life of the UAE’s people at the ethnographic section. From traditional clothes and musical instruments to Bedouin jewellery, Al Ain National Museum exhibits it all. The Grand Hili Tomb and finely restored traditional majlis are very popular here. You will get to know a lot about the ancient past of Al Ain. It is worth mentioning that the museum has a large collection pertaining to the ruling family of Sheikh Zayed.

Experience the Thrill of New Year in Dubai

If you are planning to visit Dubai for your New Year holidays, you’re in for a treat. According to Forbes magazine, Dubai has been ranked as one of the trendiest destinations for New Year’s Eve. The main reason for this is the variety of different things you can do in Dubai to make your New Year celebrations amazing. Have a look at 5 popular ways to celebrate New Year in Dubai.

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Watch the Spectacular Fireworks

Each year, the New Year celebrations in Dubai outdo the celebrations of the previous years with mesmerising displays of fireworks at the three iconic landmarks, namely Burj Al Arab, The Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah. On New Year’s Eve, these places are packed with revellers who start to arrive as early as 4 PM, so if you want to grab a good vantage point it’s better to arrive early. You can picnic with your family on the viewing points or book a table at any nearby rooftop restaurant to enjoy the fireworks. To enjoy the spectacle without stepping out of your hotel room, watch the fireworks display on television or the Burj Khalifa fireworks display live on YouTube.

Attend one of the dazzling New Year’s Eve parties

Every year, several places in Dubai organise extravagant and lavish New Year’s Eve parties. These parties stand out from the parties hosted elsewhere because of the sheer magnitude and attention to the details. The performances by superstars, dazzling firework displays and the plush treatment its guests make one feel like a VIP. Most of the 5-star hotels organise gala New Year celebrations. Prominent venues are Nasimi Beach, where the oldest New Year party celebrations are held in Dubai, Barasti Bar at the Le Meridien and Sandance beach at the Atlantis to name a few.

New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise

If you want to experience something unique on New Year, go on a Dhow Dinner Cruise with your partner. The cruise experience includes fine dining and superb views of the skyline of Dubai Creek and a splendid display of fireworks in the skies above. This three-hour event comes with midnight cake, champagne, live entertainment and a multi-course international buffet where you can treat yourself to a lavish dinner with your partner.

Holiday to Dubai – All You Need to Know

Dubai, the most populous emirate in the UAE, is among the world’s leading tourist destinations and attracts millions of travellers, year on year. The emirate is famous globally for its astounding architecture. Visitors to the emirate should be well versed with different aspects of travel that could impact their holiday here.

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Dubai is located on the southeast coast of the Persian Gulf in the Middle East. International flights to the city are handled by Dubai International Airport, which is currently the world’s busiest airport. The airport is the main hub of the Dubai-based carrier, Emirates Airline, the most preferred choice for flying to the city. The airline is a premium full-service carrier and operates a global network that spans across most of the inhabited world.

Dubai Infographic

Tourists to Dubai have famous attractions such as [sg_popup id="14"]Jumeirah Mosque[/sg_popup], [sg_popup id="10"]Dubai Museum[/sg_popup], [sg_popup id="12"]Burj Al Arab[/sg_popup], [sg_popup id="17"]Palm Islands[/sg_popup], [sg_popup id="13"]Dubai Creek[/sg_popup], [sg_popup id="15"]Ski Dubai[/sg_popup], and [sg_popup id="16"]Wild Wadi[/sg_popup] to include in their sightseeing tour. Dubai has a sub-tropical weather with arid conditions and it is only either hot or hotter here. The best time to be in the city is the winter season (November-March) when the temperature is relatively lower and the city experiences cooler climate, conducive to outdoor activity. This is also the peak tourist season with more expensive flights and holidays and crowded places of interest are a commonplace. Dubai Shopping Festival in January is among the most preferred times to visit the city. It is best to avoid peak summer (May-July) as the weather can be extremely hot. The Holy Month of Ramadan is the period of abstinence for Muslims, and tourists are expected to refrain from public eating, drinking and general merrymaking. However, it is also the time when tour operators roll out huge discounts on flights and holiday packages to lure holidaymakers. During summer, the Emirate hosts Dubai Summer Surprises, a fantastic time to be in the city when heavy discounts abound the city malls and souks. Apart from sightseeing and shopping, the city is a hot favourite of many for its warm hospitality and local delicacies. You must try out the shawarma and falafel in the UAE. These two delicacies are available all over the country.

Dubai is an extremely safe place for tourists. However, it is wise to be careful and alert at all times. Dress conservatively when you are visiting public places in Dubai. UAE is an Islamic nation and respect for the local culture and tradition is expected. If you are visiting UAE in summer, carry a strong sun screen and drink lots of fluids to beat the heat.

A Perfect Day in Luxor, Egypt

Luxor spoils one for choice with its slew of attractions and exciting activities to do. Often referred to as the world’s greatest open-air museum, this extraordinary place boasts majestic grandeur and history that find reflection through its well-preserved architectural edifices.

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The meandering River Nile adds its own bit of charm to the destination. If you are visiting Luxor, you may want to know how to spend an exhilarating day there. Well, that’s exactly what we have presented here.

Go on a Hot Air Balloon Ride over the West Bank of Luxor

Hot Air Balloon

Take in the breathtaking panorama of the city from the sky. The ride will give you a bird’s eye view of the archaic edifices of Luxor.There will be a professional guide to assist and educate you about the history of these structures throughout the flight.  The glimpse of the vast temples and tall statutes shining under the brilliant rays of the sun will expose the real beauty of Luxor. This hot air balloon ride will certainly be one of the best activities you would indulge in during your entire trip.

Enjoy the Attractive Sound and Light Show at the Karnak Temple

Karnak Temple is the most beautiful and astonishing one amongst all the monuments of Luxor.  The sound and light show, that is presented every evening in the temple premises, will take you on a wonderful journey down Egypt’s memory lane. Besides feeding you historical titbits, this show also gives you a guided insight into all the sections of the monument. After the show, simply sit on the banks of the Sacred Lake and reflect upon the beautifully spent evening, while watching the dazzling reflections of the lit up monuments in the waters of the lake.

Lose yourself in the Old souk

Want to experience the real Luxor essence? Step into the Old Souk and explore the bustling life of modern Luxor. All the locals in Luxor shop here for their day to day needs. The main entry of the market is of special tourist interest. Here you would find major shops that sell jewellery, spices, scarves, T-shirts leather goods, souvenirs, bags, clothing, and much more. The strong aroma of the spices and incense sticks will follow you all around the market. Just across the lane you can spot a New Tourist Souk that lacks the Luxor touch but is much better organised.

Three Delightful Options to Enjoy a Stay near Jumeirah Beach, Dubai

Bursting with world-class facilities and exciting attractions, Dubai is a majestic destination. Among its myriad tourist attractions, Jumeirah Beach is certainly one of the top ones.

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The Jumeirah beach is the longest beach in Dubai and stretches from Bur Dubai to Jebel Ali. The Jumeirah Beach Residence facing the beach is a hub of all the major hotels in Dubai. Perhaps, the best part about these hotels lining the beach is that they offer a magnificent view of the Arabian Gulf and parts of Palm Jumeirah. Here are three of our picks of the top hotels near Jumeirah Beach Residence.

JA Ocean View Hotel

Located in a bustling area close to the Jumeirah Beach, this contemporary hotel is the perfect choice for people travelling for leisure as well as business. The property, with its luxurious and modern facilities will rejuvenate your mind and make your experience unforgettable. The hotel is just a 30-minute convenient drive from the Dubai International Airport and around 70 minutes from the Abu Dhabi Airport. Being the only outdoor beachfront promenade with restaurants, shops, and seasonal entertainment events in Dubai, JA Ocean View Hotel is a tourist destination in itself. If you are a foodie, get set to enjoy the scrumptious fares dished out at its seven restaurants and bars.

Hotel Sofitel Dubai

Located in a prime location at the Jumeirah Beach, Hotel Sofitel Dubai is just a short walk from Dubai Marina Mall and 15-minute drive from Ibn Battuta Mall and Mall of Emirates. A stay at this 5-star property places you in one of the best locations of the most dynamic city of U.A.E. The hotel boasts a beautiful blend of French art and Arabic decor that will be a treat to your senses. The panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf from the rooms are truly magnificent. The property’s easy connectivity to Dubai’s business areas, luxury boutiques, cafés, and entertainment spots makes it an ideal option for both business and leisure travellers.

Hilton Dubai The Walk

Hilton Dubai The Walk is located on ‘The Walk,’ in the heart of Jumeirah Beach. The hotel is just a 40-minute drive from the Dubai International Airport. The location of this property in the famous shopping mile makes it a paradise for shopping buffs. There are 15 on-site restaurants, bars, and event venues to add to your experience. You can unwind with a round of golf at the Emirates or Montgomerie golf clubs, or experience adventurous highs at the nearby Ski Dubai and Wild Wadi Waterpark. If you are a sports enthusiast, you can enjoy a wide range of water sports near this hotel.

Top Traditional Markets in Dubai

Dubai is rich in art and traditions, and one of the best ways to explore this element is to check out its traditional markets or souks. These souks often seem to bring out the real essence of Dubai’s Arabic culture. The souks are bright, colourful, crowded, and fascinating. A tour of Dubai is incomplete if you come back without a souvenir from one of these markets:

The Gold Souk

Located near Dubai Creek in the Al Ras area of Deira, The Gold Souk of Dubai is among the most famous gold markets in the world.

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Explicitly beautiful and eye striking jewellery is available here across numerous modern and traditional designs in 22 and 24 karat gold. Haggling about the price is a tradition here, so bargain as much as you can!

Spice Souk

One of the most popular souks in Dubai is the Spice Souk, located just next to the Gold Souk. This narrow-passage market presents an interesting spectacle of colourful heaps of spices. This market probably has every known spice. Apart from spices you can get a wide variety of tea leaves, dry fruits, rice, nuts, dates, tobacco, and sheesha here.

Naif Souk

Naif Souk situated in the old Deira district of Dubai is amongst the oldest souks of Dubai. It was a market for the full-fledged trade of camels in the past and later on evolved into a well-developed marketplace. Nowadays the souk possesses more than a hundred fully air conditioned shops. The souk is famous for souvenirs such as leather wallets and handbags, watches, ornaments, and fabrics.

Meena Bazaar

Meena Bazaar is like a mini Indian Bazaar. As India plays a vital part in the business cycle of Dubai, this market further adds on to it. It is a hub for buying traditional Indian jewellery, special wedding jewellery, Indian textiles, Indian furniture, and accessories. In this market you will also find two Hindu temples, dedicated to Lord Shiva and Lord Krishna respectively.

Tours and Cruises to Explore Diverse Facets of Muscat, Oman

Muscat is widely known for its centuries-old Arabian charm as well as captivating natural attractions and world-class hospitality. Tour operators in the Omani capital offer an array of tours and cruises to help tourists explore various facets of the city. We have selected the most popular tours and cruises that cover major attractions in and around Muscat. Choose the ones that best suit your plans.

Half Day City Tour

omanThis is perhaps the most common tour in Muscat. Usually, such tours span both modern and ancient sights. Muttrah Souk, Grand Mosque, Bait Al Zubair Museum and Al Alam Palace are among the integral parts of these guided tours. Buy spices and perfumes at Muttrah Souk, take a look at the world’s second largest hand-woven carpet at Grand Mosque and explore the extensive collection of cultural artefacts at Bait Al Zubair Museum. Nature buffs must opt for the tours that offer a visit to Hajjar Mountains and the harbour’s forts.

Wahiba Sands Day Tour

Wahiba Sands makes for an impressive day trip from Muscat, especially for the ones who crave adventure. Sit in a 4×4 vehicle to enjoy a bone jarring drive amidst towering sand dunes. Besides the thrilling dune bashing experience, the tour offers one the chance to experience Bedouin culture and lifestyle at Bedouin hamlets. Set aside a few moments to admire the beguiling aura of the arid desert. Lunch is complimentary but you may need to pay for soft drinks.

Dhow Sea Cruise

The evening trip on a traditional Arabian Sailing ship, known as dhow, is sure to add a differentiating touch to your holidays in Muscat. Board a dhow and watch the sun set behind the hills and observe the stunning spectacle of how the rays of the setting sun bathe historical structures in a soft light. The cruise starts from Marina Bander Al Rowdha, Muscat and will pass by notable attractions such as twin Portuguese forts, Al Alam Palace and the grand Al Bustan Palace Hotel. All tour operators do not offer complimentary dinner or snacks. Also, the timing and duration of the cruise depend on the weather conditions.

Egypt Holidays beyond the Pyramids: Top Tourist Activities to Enjoy

The Pyramids are definitely the biggest draw for tourists planning holidays in Egypt. In addition to the pyramids, there are numerous other attractions that do their bit to entice tourists to this African nation in hordes. Check out some of the notable ones here.

Hot Air Ballooning

Dotted with several temples and tombs, Luxor is often called the ‘biggest open air museum in the world’. Try hot air ballooning in Luxor to enjoy amazing views of this Egyptian city. The early morning hot air balloon ride is often billed as the best way to admire the soothing sunrise. The route of the ride depends on the wind, which means different rides offer you an opportunity to view the city in different ways.

Felucca Cruise

Felucca-CruiseThe capital city of Egypt, Cairo, sports an impressive blend of rich past and modern lifestyle. If you are looking for a relaxed time without delving into the past or dealing with the metropolitan chaos, book a felucca ride to sail through the waters of the River Nile. The waterfront is perhaps the most tranquil area in Cairo and the best place to connect with the serenity of nature. Add an extra zing to your felucca experience with night tours, when skyscrapers are illuminated with sparkling lights, creating a dazzling scene.

Camel Safari

Camel-SafariIf you choose to visit Sharm El Sheikh, this is one activity you cannot ignore. Enjoy a camel ride to explore the calm settings of the desert and take delight in the various interesting legends narrated by your tour guide. The tours are available throughout the year and most of the tours last for about five hours. Tour itineraries usually include pick-up and drop off at the hotel, Bedouin dinner, traditional dance performances, and of course, camel rides. Don’t forget to carry a light jacket as the temperature in the desert can fluctuate dramatically.

Snorkelling Cruise

CruiseGiftun Island National Park in Hurghada is among the best places to enjoy snorkelling in the waters of the Red Sea. Be a part of a snorkelling cruise to explore the colourful underwater life. If you don’t have snorkelling gear, rent it from the kiosks on the island. Many cruise operators are available in the city. Almost every operator offers hotel pickup and drop as well as lunch.

Dubai Jazz Fest 2015 is Set to Rock the Music Scene of the UAE

dubaiThe calendar of Dubai is sprinkled with numerous musical events. This world-class city has emerged as a coveted destination among music buffs for watching their favourite international artists in action. Many die hard Jazz fans have already planned their trips to Dubai to catch the Dubai Jazz Fest, which is scheduled from 25th to 27th February. These three days of musical extravaganza will also be a wonderful time for experiencing quintessential Arabian hospitality and the upscale lifestyle of Dubai.

Urban Sessions

While the main gigs will unfurl from 25th to 27th February, the buzz will start with the Urban Sessions from 19th February. It will be held at exclusive locations such as Radisson Blu Hotel’s Up On The Tenth Jazz Bar, Frankie’s Italian The Walk JBR and Jazz@PizzaExpress. You won’t require tickets for these sessions but prior reservation is mandatory. Spending your evenings at these spots will allow you to experience a splendid blend of sumptuous dining and groovy music.

Venue

Dubai Media City Amphitheatre will host the main gigs. This venue features numerous concerts, festivals, conferences and events all through the year. Taxis and metro connect this facility to the major points of the city.

Artists

On all the three days from 25th – 27th February, power-packed performances will leave the audience spellbound. The entertainment will be dished out by two different international artists every day.

Day 1: Gifted artist Christina Perri would be the first to set the stage on fire with her powerful voice and captivating performance. This US singer is also adept at playing the piano and strumming the guitar. The next artist of the night is James Blunt. Be there before 10:30 to enjoy the soulful numbers by this talented English artist.

Day 2: The startling performance of Lindsey Stirling marks the commencement of the second day of the event.  The act of this American violinist starts at 2100 hrs. At 2230 hrs, Golden Globe and multi-Grammy winner, Sting will rock the podium with his award-winning numbers.

Day 3: On the final day of Dubai Jazz Fest, two renowned American artists, Esperanza Spalding and John Legend, will represent a new facet of jazz music. Both, Spalding and Legend, are Grammy winners and have sold millions of copies of their albums across the globe.