January. Traditionally, a time when everyone is contemplating a new year's resolution;- drink less, eat healthily, more exercise, Veganuary, lose weight, read more, travel more, learn an instrument, hit the gym, the list goes on...
Whichever adopted, tipsy over-ambitious resolutions made at midnight on New Year's Eve usually end up in the bin by mid-January, - unless of course, you make a resolution which covers an activity/ hobby you would normally perform as part of your usual routine anyway. My New Year's resolution to travel more would be expertly maintained two weeks into 2018 with a trip to the UAE; Running a live event in the city of Dubai. The event? - The 3rd Vip World Leadership Summit.
Prior to departure, the UK was already bracing for the second named storm of 2018. Days before the arrival of storm Fionn, it was time to bid farewell to cold, damp, grey United Kingdom.
In preparation for Dubai, I felt as smug as Trump on election night queueing in Boots, purchasing factor 50 sun-block and mosquito spray whilst surrounded by miserable crowds riddled with flu, chest infections, coughing and spluttering, scrabbling for Lemsips and tissues. It felt as if no time had passed since my Balinese volcano drama last autumn, and already a year since my whistle-stop tour of Singapore, my carbon footprint was fast matching that of Palin - (Michael, that is, rather than Sarah), Chalmers, and a Kardashian, probably. The benefits of a flight at the 'crack-of-sparrows' meant arriving at the airport to virtually no queue at the check-in desk. Although it was impossible to tell apart the ground-staff, weary from a manic night, to those only just clocking onto a pre-dawn shift. Before long I was stashing my carry-on luggage in the overhead compartment and settling down into my window seat. I must have dozed off as I awoke with a jolt. Peering out of the window into the pre-dawn sky, I noticed we had taxied onto the tarmac and were awaiting clearance for take-off.
Being accustomed to long-haul flights, a mere seven hours to Dubai would be a breeze, with enough time to have a nap, take in a movie, review notes and ruminate on the trip ahead.
Dubai
Dubai is the largest and most densely populated city in the UAE. Located on the southeast coast of the Persian Gulf, it is the capital of the Emirate of Dubai, and one of the seven emirates that make up the country. Of the seven emirates; Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the only two that possess veto powers over critical matters of national importance in the country’s Federal Supreme Council;- the main UAE’s governing authority. The city of Dubai is located on the emirate’s northern coastline, home to the Dubai-Sharjah-Ajman metropolitan area.
Dubai emerged as a global city and business hub of the Middle East. It is also a major transport hub for passengers and cargo. In the 1960s Dubai’s economy was based on revenues from trade and oil exploration projects, although oil was not discovered until 1966. Revenue generated from oil started to flow in 1969, which assisted in the early development of the city, however, its reserves are limited and production levels are low; today, less than 5% of the emirate’s revenue comes from oil.
Dubai’s Western-style model of business drives its economy with the main revenues now coming from tourism, aviation, real estate, and financial services. Dubai has recently attracted world attention through a number of innovative high profile construction projects and sporting events. In the 21st century, the city has become iconic for its skyscrapers and high-rise buildings, in particular, the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.
As of 2012, Dubai was the 22nd most expensive city in the world and the most expensive city in the Middle East.
Climate
Dubai has a hot desert climate. Summers in Dubai are extremely hot, windy and humid, with an average high of 41°C and overnight lows of around 30°C during the hottest month in August. It is sunny most days of the year. Winters are generally warm with an average high of 24°C and overnight lows of 14°C during January, the coolest month.
Annual rainfall, normally low has been increasing in the last few decades with accumulations reaching 94.3mm per year. Dubai summers are also known for the very high humidity level, which can make it very uncomfortable for many, and could trigger a major salon emergency if your barnet's prone to frizz.
The highest recorded temperature in the UAE was 52°C reached in July 2002.
Corporate Dubai
Home to more than 150 nationalities, Dubai boasts the most modern amenities found anywhere in the world – both in its entrepreneurial business environment and things to do, see and experience. As the Middle East’s fastest-growing, most dynamic and exciting cosmopolitan city, Dubai is a true example of ethnic diversity.
Over the years Dubai has solidly established itself as the UAE’s leading commercial and trade hub with modern infrastructure and a world-class business environment.
Economic Powerhouse
Dubai’s geographic location places itself at the epicentre of a rapidly developing region. A region ranging from North Africa to South Asia and the Caspian Sea to South Africa, which includes 42 countries with the world’s fastest-growing emerging markets. The combined economic achievements of this region are emerging as a major force within the
global economy.
Cosmopolitan City
Dubai’s population is made up of over 80% expatriates. Altogether, more than 150 nationalities live and work among each other within a safe environment, with a below average crime rate compared to that of many other major international cities.
World-Class Infrastructure
Home to a growing number of international firms, service companies, SMEs and financial institutions, Dubai attracts a highly skilled workforce, with businesses and expatriates reaping the benefits of residing in a tax-free country. As well boasting some of the best healthcare facilities in the world, schools accredited to international standards are found in abundance. Top recreational facilities include eight championship golf courses, a real must-see for major putt-heads.
Hello, Dubai
Nodding off shortly after take-off and having neglected to pull down the screen on my cabin window, several hours later I awoke to a very different sky, feeling the warmth from the sunlight on my face, I heard the captain's announcement that we were shortly coming into land at Dubai International. Looking out the window I was amazed by the staggering, almost surreal aerial view of Dubai. The futuristic buildings shaping the skyline, made me feel as if I'd time-travelled into the future.
Having bundled up extra warm to brace myself for the biting wintery conditions in the UK, it was a very different story coming into land mid-morning on a January in Dubai. The captain's announcement informed us that the temperatures were already in the high teens. I had a distinct feeling that I was going to be as overdressed as it's possible to be.
Unlike previous trips, arriving at my destination from a medium haul flight having slept most of the way, I wouldn't need a day to recover from jet-lag. I was able to have 24 hours to myself to explore the city, before cracking on with the event, but with so much on offer, where would I begin?
Dubai's top attractions - Things to see and do
Burj Khalifa
Standing 828 metres high, originally named Burj Dubai it was renamed in honour of the ruler of Abu Dhabi and president of the UAE, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahayan. The Burj Khalifa really is hard to miss. The world's tallest tower naturally dominates the Dubai skyline but the true majesty of the building is best appreciated up close or, even better, from inside. On a clear day, the view from the observation deck on level 124 is absolutely stunning, topped only by the view from the luxurious, 'At The Top Sky Lounge' on the 148th floor. For those who would like to linger for a meal in the clouds, Atmosphere Restaurant on level 122 is the place to be.
A view from the summit, breathtaking by any means, and possibly a waking nightmare for those scared of heights. Vertigo sufferers had probably best give this one a pass. Why ruin it for everyone else?
The elevator ride to the observation deck takes around a minute-and-a-half with the lift rising at speeds of approximately 10 metres per second.
However, the return journey, minus the lift or stairs would take 17.65 seconds before impact! Although you're not likely to walk away from the experience. Having said that; a growing trend in Dubai is base jumping from the top of the iconic towers which make up the city's skyline, with several companies now offering adrenaline junkies the chance to perform a tandem skydive from the Princess towers alongside some of the world's top base jumping professionals. No thanks.
The Dubai Mall
Right next to the Burj Khalifa is The Dubai Mall. To label the sprawling development merely a shopping mall doesn't do it justice. Even an entire day spent here isn't enough to see it all. Along with its 1,200+ shops and 150 restaurants, the venue is home to an indoor theme park, an ice rink, a huge indoor waterfall, a choreographed outdoor fountain and the giant Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
The Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain, located at the base of the iconic Burj Khalifa and just outside the doors of the famous Dubai Mall, features the world's largest choreographed fountain system. This popular dancing water show jets water streams as high as 150 metres in the air. Each colourful, illuminated jet sways in time to various musical numbers from around the world, producing what has become one of the most popular shows in Dubai. Two showings occur in the afternoon (1 pm and 1:30 pm), except on Fridays (1:30 pm to 2 pm) and evening displays begin at sundown and take place every 30 minutes until the final song plays at 11 pm.
Palm Jumeirah
A man-made island in the shape of a palm tree - there's a reason why the locals say "only in Dubai." Palm Jumeirah is one of the largest artificial islands in the world and a triumph of human ingenuity. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the Palm's vast array of high-end hotels, including the Waldorf Astoria, Fairmont, One&Only, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray and, perhaps most notably, the iconic Atlantis, The Palm. And with a monorail running down the 'trunk' that connects to the mainland's tram system, getting there couldn't be easier.
Dubai Creek
Dubai may be famous for the glitz and glamour of its sky-high towers, but the real heart of the city is, and always will be, the Creek. The saltwater estuary is the original site where the Bani Yas tribe settled, and its waters were vital for what used to be Dubai's main forms of economy: pearl diving and fishing. Today, the area is awash with the history of the emirate, as it's home to the Dubai Museum as well as the labyrinthine alleyways of the gold, spice and textile souks. While at the Creek, a ride across the water on a traditional abra is a must, and at a bargain AED1 (equiv. 20p sterling)per ticket, it's easily the best value tourist attraction in the city.
The walk and Beach at JBR
For those who like to shop, dine, see a movie and go to the beach all in one place, consider a trip to The Beach opposite JBR. With guest DJs pumping out the tunes on weekends, a regular open-air cinema and a popular water park to entertain the little ones for an hour or two, JBR is always buzzing with activity.
Kite Beach
The aptly-named Kite Beach is the perfect spot to test out your watersports skills, but there's plenty to do out of the water at this popular spot, too! Grab a smoothie from one of the many open-air cafes and restaurants just steps from the beach, watch bikers and skaters fly by at the newly finished skate park or get into a game of volleyball. With plenty of beach activities, plus an awesome view of the Burj Al Arab, it's easy to spend the whole day here.
Dubai Marina
Look into the future at the world's largest man-made marina, Dubai Marina. Marvel at some of the world's tallest apartment buildings as you stroll along Dubai Marina Walk or see it from the water as you set sail from the Dubai Marina Yacht Club.
Al Fahidi
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. Best seen on foot, this area offers a nostalgic view of a bygone era with traditional wind towers and a maze of winding alleyways. You can visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) where guests can take part in Arabic classes, heritage tours and guided mosque visits to better appreciate the local culture. After exploring, take an atmospheric abra ride to the souks on the other side of the Creek.
Etihad Museum
Discover United Arab Emirates’ contemporary history at Dubai’s freshest cultural offering – the Etihad Museum. The magnificent new museum, located in Jumeirah, features a number of interactive pavilions where visitors can explore the UAE’s history – with particular emphasis on the significant period surrounding the establishment of the country’s independence between 1968 and 1974 – through photos, films and more. Additionally, guests can learn about the UAE’s rich heritage before the country’s Founding Fathers signed the treaty that unified the seven emirates as well as the subsequent economic development.
Dubai Canal
Dubai Water Canal is a 3.2km long waterway extending from the Creek in Old Dubai through Business Bay before finding its way to the Arabian Gulf. Dubai Canal creates 80,000 sqm of waterfront public space and facilities, to include new recreational areas like the 3km running track and 12km cycling path. The canal’s beautiful waterfall can be viewed from Dubai’s Business Bay or you can take in views of the canal from some of Dubai’s newest hotels, like W Hotel and the St Regis. The Atrium is a series of five restaurants that are also situated on the canal’s waterfront.
The Desert
Less than a 20-minute drive from the futuristic, metropolis of downtown Dubai, you can experience the marvels of the Arabian Desert; the original tourist attraction of Dubai. Activities include Dune-bashing - which consists of off-roading at high speeds, rising and plunging along the desert sand dunes, being tossed about like loose shopping items in the back seat whilst experiencing the desert as if you were on a roller coaster ride at the hands and expertise (or perhaps mercy) of your highly skilled driver. Other activities on offer include; Safari Dubai-style with off-roading, quad biking and sandboarding. If that sounds all a bit too 'Indiana Jones' more static activities include a traditional barbeque at camp, henna tattoos and camel rides.
Those looking for luxury should indulge in a Heritage Dinner Safari. Can't get enough in a day? Treat yourself to an unforgettable night amid the dunes at the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa or Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa.
Dubai had so much on offer as both a holiday and a Mice destination, it was going to be tricky finding time to oversee the running of the event and still having time to see at least a few of Dubai's major attractions. Fortunately, on this occasion, I would have assistance 'parachuted' in from back home for extra support, in the form of Emma, Sasha and Lydia for whom I specially arranged a spot of Dune-bashing on their arrival.
Efforts to bring you POV video of 'Dune-bashing' were dashed when resulting video yielded 8-9 mins of frenetic shaky-cam footage with lots of shrieking and also a fair bit of colourful language; as we discovered that we'd need to be holding on with both hands the entire time to minimise heads colliding!
'Fun-time' over, and barely surviving the desert experience feeling as if we'd been in a tumble dryer. Time to sing for our supper, dash back to the hotel and knuckle down to the gargantuan task of a welcome dinner for 600 delegates.
JW Marriott Marquis
Located within two iconic towers in Business Bay on Sheikh Zayed Road, the JW Marriot Marquis offers exceptional amenities and an array of bars and restaurants, including Indian, Italian and Thai fare. The elegant hotel rooms boasted luxury bedding, marble bathrooms, 24-hour room service, and some featuring stunning views of Dubai's jaw-dropping skyline. Facilities including a sparkling outdoor pool and the world-class Saray Spa. The JW Marriot Marquis Hotel Dubai was the only venue choice for an event of such scale and grandeur. The venue is located 20 minutes from Dubai International Airport with the capacity to host meetings, conferences and exhibitions for up to 1,000 delegates.
In the days leading up to the event, it was a race against time to ensure arrangements were confirmed and ready for the event; kicking off with a welcome dinner for 600 people from all over the world, 600 weary travellers all with mouths to feed, needing hot showers, and rooms to occupy.
Best laid plans for an orderly staggered arrival were cast out the window with the appearance of 12 medium-sized coaches on the horizon ferrying our delegates on the morning of the event.
The overwhelming task of registering the hordes and tending to their needs was expertly undertaken by my unflappable events team. In a textbook display of teamwork, 'keeping calm and carrying on', finesse, and chipping away at the crowd until finally every delegate was attended to and directed to a room. The slightly drawn-out arrivals procedure accomplished, and stragglers chivvied to go prepare for dinner.
Rooms occupied, lights, stage and tables set, catering en route, and entertainment ready for action. I took a quick moment to freshen up.
As the saying goes - "When in Rome..."
....needing the flimsiest of excuses to go all out on my outfit, and in the spirit of things. I drew much attention and many gasps serving desert realness in Arab sheikh (chic!).
Thanks to the efforts of my events team, the entire evening ran without any setbacks, delegates dined on canapes and a champagne reception as they networked and hobnobbed to live music and dancers.
Following a sumptuous 3-course dinner, it was onto the formalities of after-dinner speakers and awards ceremony.
Onto the final part of the evening which featured delegates themselves taking to the stage in an extraordinary demonstration of their individual talents. Performances ranged from elaborate song and dance numbers to one notable artist whose act consisted of suctioning empty energy drink cans to his bald head.
The rest of the welcome dinner ran without a hitch, with guests in awe as the sunset in Dubai, transformed the backdrop of a tranquil desert oasis into a pulsating intense neon urban metropolis by night.
10 things about Dubai
·The pronunciation of Dubai is based on the English pronunciation when in fact the Arabic pronunciation is actually Du-bay- loosely rhyming with toupee, rather than ‘goodbye’
·The Dubai police force are made up of a number of luxury and exotic sports vehicles including Lamborghinis, Ferraris, Aston Martin One-77 and McLaren, to name a few. Witnessing a high-speed car chase on the streets of the city would resemble a Fast and Furious sequel minus Vin Diesel, albeit a very brief one since a fleet of world’s fastest cars would likely catch up with perpetrators in next to no time.
Taking photographs of said police fleet, proved to be not as easy as hoped, due to the fact that fortunately an emergency situation didn't arise during my visit, and even if it did, I certainly wouldn't have been able to keep up
·Also known as the ‘City of gold’ - Dubai is home to the world-famous Gold Souk, - a traditional marketplace located in Dubai’s commercial business district consisting of more than 300 retailers, most of whom are jewellery retailers. It is estimated that there are approximately ten tons of gold present at any given time at the souk. A definite must, if bling's your thing; or even if you just happen to regard Mr T as the greatest style icon to walk the earth.
·Dubai is home to the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, since its completion in 2008. Standing at 828 metres, originally named Burj Dubai it was renamed in honour of the ruler of Abu Dhabi and president of the UAE, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahayan.
·The Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall in the world by total area. As well as consisting of 1,200 shops, the mall includes an indoor artificial ski slope, allowing visitors to round off a day of shopping followed by with a ski session.
· The crime rate in Dubai is next to nothing - due to very strict Sharia laws in place which carry the most severe penalties.
·The name Dubai is derived from the Arabic word for money, from an Arabic phrase ‘Dabba-Dubai’ - translated as “they come with a lot of money” - rather fitting as Dubai is well known for the wealth of its population.
Even though the Burj Al-Arab (Tower of the Arabs)is the 3rd tallest hotel in the world, due to being designed to resemble the mainsail of a ship, 39% of its total height is non-occupiable accommodation space.
·Only 10-15% of Dubai’s population is made up of nationals, 85-90% of the population are made up of migrants of Asian descent from India, Pakistan and the Philippines.
·Plans are underway to build the world’s first climate-controlled city in Dubai. The area, constructed under a huge glass dome, will accommodate the world's largest shopping centre, over 100 hotels, and a wellness district for medical tourists.
Bear in mind the following list of do's and don'ts when visiting Dubai to ensure you're well informed of the culture and customs so that your experience is memorable for all the right reasons. Horribly offending the locals does not place highly on a tourist's 'to-do' list.
Or don't; discovering things the hard way often makes for an interesting travel anecdote, although getting yourself banged up is likely to mess up your holiday.
Dubai Dos and Don’ts
Don’t Drink in Public - Although Dubai is one of the more liberal than other places in the Muslim world. When it comes to alcohol consumption, there are still rules and guidelines which must be considered and observed. Foreign residents are only permitted to consume alcohol in their own homes with a license. This can be obtained online or at a bottle shop. Travellers and expats can imbibe at licensed hotels, but don’t overdo it. Public drunkenness is an absolute no-no, therefore it would be advisable to go easy on the booze, the moment you leave a venue if you are deemed to be even slightly merry, there is a strong likelihood of being charged with public affray. Furthermore, please never ever get behind the wheel of a vehicle while under the influence, you’ll almost certainly get yourself banged up.
Don’t Take Drugs - Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy towards possession, use and peddling of illicit substances. Going beyond the standard list of illegal narcotics you’d expect, even some prescription medications may be considered contraband. It has been reported that possession of over-the-counter opiate painkillers such as codeine has landed travellers in trouble. It is highly recommended that you do your homework prior to travelling on what is and what isn’t permitted before bringing anything potentially suspect into the country.
Don’t sing and dance in public - Regardless of the circumstances, it is extremely advisable to keep a lid on your yearning to instantaneously burst into song and dance. No exceptions, this is Dubai, not La-La Land. It was recently reported that a teenage boy was arrested for dancing the Macarena in a public space. It didn’t help[him] that the impromptu performance was captured on video and shared widely on social media. Flash mobs and street dance crews are certainly not ‘a thing’ here.
Do watch your photography -It is expected, almost as a prerequisite that travellers are going to be documenting their experiences taking photos of the locals in their native surroundings in traditional clothing, especially for travel bloggers, however, before getting overly snap happy and getting carried away photographing all and sundry. In Dubai, it is considered extremely rude and invasive to randomly snap photos of people, especially women without expressed permission.
Don’t Smooch in Public - We’ve all been there; in the awkward presence of an over-amorous couple who can’t resist the urge of a very public display of affection forcing everyone in the vicinity to witness a voracious lip/tongue wrestle. Being culturally and religiously sensitive will ensure your experiences of Dubai are remembered for all the right reasons. A few years ago a British couple was jailed for a romp on a beach, but even less tactile gestures can spell trouble also. More recently, a pair were arrested for a ‘bit of a snog’ in the back of a taxi.
Don’t Curse/Do watch your potty mouth- Adhering to basic good manners will carry you far in Dubai. No public cussing here, please. A tourist was recently charged with dropping an F-bomb in the presence of a policeman. Bite your tongue and keep the insults, profanity and vulgarities to yourself. Do not under any circumstances, utter any blasphemous or disrespectful remarks against Islam or Dubai. This is considered a serious offence with several tourists having been jailed for thoughtless off-the-cuff remarks. In addition, negative comments about the monarchy, ruling families and even prominent Emirati businessman should be avoided. It’s best to keep your opinions and insights to yourself. Freedom of Speech is not considered a universal human right.
Don’t Flaunt/Do dress modestly- There are many public signs reminding travellers of respectful clothing, as the definition of respectful clothing can vary from one place to the next, The widely accepted idea of what is respectful entails describes clothing to cover shoulders and knees. T-shirts and ‘longer’ shorts are generally fine, but vests and hotpants are stretching the boundaries of acceptance. Keep your fashion choices towards the conservative end of the spectrum.
Don’t Eat in Public during Ramadan - If you happen to be in Dubai during the month of Ramadan (the ninth month of the Islamic calendar), do not eat, drink or smoke in public while Muslims observe a fast from dawn to dusk. Don’t even attempt to sneak a snack in the car. Chewing gum in public is viewed as disrespectful. It’s fine to consume freely in hotel premises or the privacy of your home, but restaurants and cafes will be closed for business. Visitors regardless of religious background should not eat, drink, or smoke in the streets during daylight hours over Ramadan.
Don’t Use Your Left-hand - In Muslim cultures the left hand is used for ‘toileting’, therefore be extra mindful when incorporating in certain gestures. Never greet anyone with a ‘leftie’ handshake. Also opening doors or presenting people with your left hand is something you should be mindful to avoid. Don’t pass items especially food or drink with the left. Definitely, don’t eat with your left hand as it is always considered ‘unclean’ regardless even if you’ve just scrubbed them raw. It’s ok to drink with the left, however. Those naturally left-handed should make a conscious effort to become ambidextrous as best they can in these situations to avoid offending the locals. Best get practising at home for a few days before heading out there.
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