Greeting globetrotters. I hope that you all have been well. I recently returned to Dubai after visiting for Eid holidays. I’m still in shock by the pictures I’ve seen coming out of the UAE after the stormy weather we’ve gotten in the GCC. I was fortunate enough to fly back to Oman a day before we were struck with inclement weather. I wanted to provide a guide for visiting Dubai after my latest jaunt across the border. Check out this guide for places to see, things to do, where to dine, and more in Dubai.
Where to Stay in Dubai
Fairmont Dubai Hotel
Fairmont Dubai Hotel is a luxurious and upscale hotel located in a central area of Dubai, offering spacious rooms with stunning views of the city. The hotel is known for its excellent hospitality, which I concur with it having friendly and attentive staff. Fairmont Dubai features multiple dining options providing guests with a variety of culinary delights.
The hotel boasts amenities such as outdoor pools with sunrise and sunset views, a large gym, and a spa with a hammam, catering to both leisure and business travelers. The spa experience I had here was absolutely glorious. I highly recommend it. I’ve been fortunate enough to enjoy an array of hotel stays in Dubai yet Fairmont ranks highly up there for me.
Things to Do in Dubai
I enjoyed a bit of R&R during my most recent visit to Dubai. One of the things I love about visiting Dubai is heading over to the stunning beaches and resorts utilizing day passes. I spent time at both Atlantis resorts during this holiday.
Pool Day at The Atlantis Royal
Atlantis The Royal in Dubai is a luxurious and opulent hotel that offers a plethora of dining options, including Ling Ling, Gastronomy, Jaleo, Milos, Elements, and more. The hotel boasts a stunning infinity pool overlooking Palm Jumeirah and the Dubai skyline, along with a 1.5-mile-long private white sand beach. I was so excited to take in the maginificient views from the infinity pool. It’s the same hotel that Beyonce performed for their grand opening last year!
In addition, it is currently home to an amazing Louis Vuitton art pop-up and the pool features Dolce & Gabbana blue and white adornments. From decorative pillows to the designs, it is D&G blinged out! I had a fantastic time lounging by the pool, siping rose all day, and cooling off in the infinity pool. A day pass can booked through Cloud 22 rooftop experience.
Beach Day Pass at Atlantis the Palm
Many dream of spending a night at Atlantis, The Palm, which is a luxurious 5-star hotel resort located at the apex of the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The hotel features 1,548 rooms in two accommodation wings, the East and West Tower. It is also complemented by the Aquaventure water park and the Lost Chambers Aquarium.
Atlantis, The Palm is a popular destination known for its opulence. I was excited to experience such lavishness while enjoying a day pass at White Beach. Once again I sipped on frozen cocktails, ate sushi at the restaurant nearby, and enjoyed both cooling off in the pools and the beach.
Experience the Theater of Digital Art
The Theatre of Digital Art (ToDA) in Dubai is an immersive art exhibition that combines advanced technologies and audiovisual effects to showcase classic and contemporary art pieces. Located at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, ToDA offers visitors a unique experience by blending art with modern technology and storytelling. The facility spans over 1,000 square meters and features large HD screens on its walls and floors, providing observers with a 3D view of the displays.
Furthermore, ToDA hosts a variety of multimedia exhibitions, contemporary installations, and VR-based pieces to enhance the artistic experience. Additionally, the theater offers live music nights, art and music events, and showcases various shows like “Being Van Gogh” and “Live 20s Jazz Night.” I had an amazing experience and enjoyed the Live 20s Jazz show immensely.
Where to Dine
Tiffany’s Blue Box Cafe Dubai Mall
The Blue Box Cafe by Tiffany & Co. is a chic dining experience located in the Dubai Mall, adjacent to the iconic jewellery brand’s flagship store. The cafe, which opened in October 2023, is operated in partnership with the Dubai-based Rikas Group. It offers three exquisite culinary experiences: the famous Breakfast at Tiffany’s, an afternoon Tea, and casual all-day dining. Additionally, the 38-seat dining area features a unique concrete tile floor adorned with playful multicolor accents. As well as a Tiffany Blue chandelier with suspended Tiffany Blue® boxes, and marble-clad accent walls in Tiffany Blue hues.
Nola Bijou Bistro & Bar
Nola Bijou Bistro & Bar is a restaurant and bar in Dubai that brings the taste of New Orleans to the city. The venue is known for its iconic marble-top jewel bar with intricate wood carvings, which is hand-carved by local artisans. Nola is inspired by the charm of 19th-century New Orleans, blending French influences, Caribbean energy, and Southern flair seamlessly. Nestled above Mythos Urban Greek Eatery, Nola Bijou Bistro & Bar offers a unique culinary experience that takes inspiration from the vibrant spirit of 19th-century New Orlean. I throughly enjoyed the mac & cheese as well as seafood jambalaya, even though it reminded me of a seafood paella. It was tasty nonetheless.
There are so many amazing experiences to have in Dubai. These were just a few of my recommendations based on my latest visit from Oman. Where have you visited in Dubai that you’d recommend globetrotters? Feel free to comment below your recommendations! Until next time, happy globetrotting.