Dubai, UAE

Dubai is located on the Eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, in the south west corner of the Arabian Gulf.  Dubai came into existence in records as a town around 1799. It was originally a fishing settlement. However, modern Dubai is relatively new as the modern emirate of Dubai was created with the formation of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in 1971. It's a large and fascinating city that offers many attractions to keep visitors to the city amused for days.

Top 10 reasons why you should take a holiday in Dubai, UAE:

1. Dubai is upbeat and exciting: It has an energetic cosmopolitan lifestyle and an entrepreneurial spirit. Dubai has 100 vibrant nightspots with no prohibition on drinking alcohol. It stages frequent concerts and firework spectaculars. Dubai has a wide choice of restaurants serving food from dozens of countries.

2. Shopping Paradise: Dubai has long had a reputation as a leading shopping destination in the Middle East, and it just keeps getting better. You'll find traditional souqs (markets) in Old Dubai selling anything and everything you can think of, in addition to contrasting modern shopping malls. More and more shopping malls are appearing, and international flagship stores are moving in to every one.

3. Spectacular modern architecture: Leading architects from around the world consider Dubai's sprouting modern buildings to be remarkable. Design masterpieces include the sky scraping Burj Al Arab hotel, the wave-shaped Jumeirah Beach Hotel, the twin Emirate Towers, and the Dubai Gulf & Yacht Club's clubhouse, just to mention a few.

4. Great beaches: Dubai has long stretches of beautiful, unspoiled white beaches. It also has upscale umbrella-dotted beaches. The best is Jumeirah Beach, located near the Burj Al Arab hotel.

5. Climate and Weather: In the summer, practically every day is sunny. In the winter, rainfall is usually modest and most days are sunny.

6. Hospitality: The inhabitants are well-known for their traditional Arabic hospitality. Visitors are treated as welcomed guests.

7. Luxurious hotels and resorts: The two best are the Burj Al Arab hotel and the Al Maha resort. The latter sits secluded in the middle of a desert wildlife reserve. Check Priceline Hotels to save up to 50%.

8. Safety: Dubai is safe for travelers. It is one of the world's safest travel destinations because street and hotel room crimes are practically non-existent.

9. Multi-cultural: Only about 20% of the inhabitants are considered "local." The remaining 80% come from over 100 countries (led by India, Pakistan and the Philippines). This has generated a vibrant fusion of cultures. However, distinct traditions of each culture remain, which lends character and produces vivid ethnic contrasts.

10. Contrasting sites: From the timeless tranquillity of the desert to the lively bustle of the souk, Dubai offers a kaleidoscope of attractions for visitors. There are archaeological sites, deserts, nature areas, mosques, old markets, modern shopping malls, museums, golf courses, diving expeditions, year-round skiing possibilities, etc.., all in Dubai.

Other information and our ratings:

Suggested Travel Resources: Lonely Planet City Guides

Best Airline serving this destination: Fly Emirates