Travel UAE

Tag: city

  • Palm Tower 

    Palm Tower 

    The View at The Palm observation deck is located on the 52nd floor of the Palm Tower, offering stunning views of the Palm Jumeirah island and the surrounding areas.

    This 360-degree viewing platform provides a breathtaking perspective of the unique artificial island shaped like a palm tree, the luxury villas of the world’s elite, and landmarks like JBR and even the iconic sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel in the distance.

    Visiting at 9 a.m. means almost no crowds, making the experience more enjoyable and serene. The views are stunning and arguably more captivating than the nearby Ferris wheel, Ain Dubai, and certainly rival the observation deck at Burj Khalifa. Plus, you can enjoy a coffee while soaking in the scenery!

    GPS: 25.113643, 55.139866
    Google Maps
    Photos: 1, 2

  • Dubai metro

    Dubai metro

    The Dubai Metro operates without drivers, making it fully automated. The train is divided into segments, with specialized compartments at either end:

    • Women and children-only compartments
    • Gold Class compartment: Accessible with a “gold ticket,” anyone can purchase at the ticket counter for double the regular fare.

    The middle carriages are open to all passengers.

    The highlight of the end compartments is the panoramic glass window, offering a clear view of the tracks ahead. It’s perfect for enjoying the urban scenery or capturing time-lapse videos of downtown Dubai’s iconic skyscrapers as the train glides through the city.

    Photos: 1, 2

  • Dubai Frame

    Dubai Frame

    The Dubai Frame is an iconic structure in Zabeel Park resembling a giant photo frame. It consists of two towers, each 150 meters tall, connected at the top by a 93-meter-long glass bridge. The floor is glass, which visitors can walk across.

    From the top, you’ll enjoy stunning views of central Dubai, offering a unique perspective of the modern skyline and the older parts of the city. Inside, there’s a museum showcasing Dubai’s transformation over the years, while visitors can explore the beautiful park grounds outside.

    Highlights:

    • Panoramic views: A breathtaking look at Dubai’s contrasting past and future.
    • Glass walkway: A thrilling experience walking on the bridge’s glass floor.
    • Museum: Insight into Dubai’s remarkable history and development.
    • Relaxing park setting: Perfect for a stroll after you visit the Frame.

    The Dubai Frame is a must-see attraction for visitors looking to capture the city’s essence.

    GPS: 25.235443, 55.30011
    Google Maps
    Photos

  • Al Seef

    Al Seef

    The Al Seef Historical District stretches for 1.8 km along the shoreline of Dubai Creek, blending centuries-old traditions with modern innovations right in the heart of Dubai. It features numerous shops in authentic historical interiors, offering a glimpse into the past. Nearby, you’ll find a variety of unique restaurants to explore.

    The “old” town transitions into a modern waterfront area at a certain point. With its traditional architecture, the historical section gradually merges into contemporary spaces, creating a fascinating contrast.

    What to Expect:

    • Perfect for evening walks: The atmosphere becomes magical as the city lights up with millions of lights.
    • Daytime comfort: Shaded areas provide a cool retreat from the sun.
    • Convenience: Beneath the entire area lies a massive, free underground parking lot, making it easily accessible.

    Al Seef is a delightful spot for a stroll, combining history and modernity in one place.

    GPS: 25.264615, 55.301732
    Google Maps
    Photos

  • Louvre Abu Dhabi

    Louvre Abu Dhabi

    Louvre Abu Dhabi is a remarkable cultural landmark, even beyond its exhibits. Although the current season features only the permanent collection, and even the children’s section is temporarily closed, the museum still offers a captivating experience. I’m more drawn to ancient artifacts—objects like remnants from another world or life.

    The museum complex itself is worth the visit. The covered exhibition areas are just a fraction of the site. Underneath its vast, intricate, and semi-transparent dome lies an open-air museum-like space. It feels alive and atmospheric, blending architecture, art, and the surrounding natural elements. There’s even a turtle conservation area on the premises.

    Even more breathtaking are the views at sunset. The museum includes a purpose-built viewing platform where you can marvel at the horizon—sea, sky, and the warm hues of the setting sun. Below, the waters ripple gently, and sometimes, turtles swim by, adding to the serene ambiance.

    As usual, I arrived early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Two hours slipped by effortlessly as I explored the exhibits and the outdoor areas. The complex also has a selection of restaurants and even guided kayak tours.

    The surrounding area is undergoing intense development. Located on Saadiyat Island (technically separated from the mainland by small canals), it’s transformed into a hub of luxury living, resorts, and striking architectural projects. Wherever you look, construction cranes dominate the skyline, promising a vibrant future for this district.

    GPS: 24.533597, 54.400926
    Google Maps
    Photos: 1, 2, 3

  • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

    Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

    Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was constructed between 1994 and 2007 at a total cost of half a billion US dollars. It holds several Guinness World Records, including the world’s most enormous chandelier (adorned with precious stones and gold) at its inauguration and a 5,400-square-meter handmade carpet weighing over 35 tons. The rug is 70% wool and 30% cotton, a masterpiece of craftsmanship.

    Some might describe it as “extravagant,” but standing before it, the first word that comes to mind is “beautiful.” The intricate walls, floors, and stained glass reflect a clear respect for tradition and history. It feels harmonious and awe-inspiring.

    I arrived early in the morning at opening time to avoid the heat because I’m an early bird. While most tour groups were gathering and organizing, I walked ahead. When I reached the mosque, it felt like I had it almost to myself. This is partly because visitors start their journey further away and walk through the “Path of Tolerance,” symbolizing the UAE’s vision of coexistence, tolerance, and peace for the world.

    Walking through the mosque in silence was an unforgettable experience. Soft Islamic chants played gently in the background from speakers, birds sang from every corner, and the entire environment invited peaceful reflection. The grandiosity of the place, combined with its serenity, left me completely immersed in its atmosphere.

    GPS: 24.408732, 54.475953
    Google Maps
    Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4

  • Corniche Beach – Abu Dhabi

    Corniche Beach – Abu Dhabi

    Corniche in Abu Dhabi is the perfect destination for white sandy beaches free of crowded “skyscraper views” and ideal for leisurely park strolls.

    The wide beach boasts pristine white sand and is sheltered by nearby islands, meaning there’s never any surf. Facilities include cafés, restrooms, and showers, making it very convenient for visitors.

    A highlight of Family Park is the large children’s play area featuring multiple fountains—a fantastic spot for kids to cool off in the heat (don’t forget a change of clothes!). However, some playgrounds are fenced off, likely due to wear and tear over time.

    If you’re up for a long walk, you can easily spend three hours strolling the entire Corniche, then a relaxing return from the parks to your starting point. This blend of beach, parks, and facilities makes the Corniche a top pick for families and those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience.

    GPS: 24.476782, 54.343833
    Google Maps
    Photos

  • Kalba Beach

    Kalba Beach

    By the end of the day, I decided to drive along the entire Omani coastline within the UAE, from the border with Oman near the city of Dibba (in the north) to the border again near the town of Kalba (in the south). According to the map, this route is unique because the UAE separates mainland Oman from a small Omani enclave, home to an extensive mountain range and some fascinating fjords. While the drive along the coast doesn’t feel like being on the French Riviera, it offers moments of beauty and intrigue.

    To wrap up the day, let’s visit the city of Kalba at sunset, specifically its gorgeous waterfront promenade. This promenade stretches almost to the border with Oman, ending at a small bay surrounded by mangrove forests (which I haven’t explored yet but definitely plan to visit). On the other side, the promenade starts near the outskirts of the more well-known city of Fujairah.

    The total length of the walking area is nearly 8 kilometers. While there are some gaps in the fully developed pedestrian path, for the most part, you can enjoy a 1.5 to 2-hour stroll along the sea in one direction.

    GPS: 25.072326, 56.360479
    Google Maps
    Photos

  • Khorfakkan

    Khorfakkan

    Khorfakkan is a small town on the shore of the Gulf of Oman, about an hour and a half drive from Dubai (located on the Persian Gulf). The drive there takes you through the mountains via a high-speed highway, with sections passing through tunnels—a surprising sight in the UAE.


    The town is in a large bay with a long, wide beach. Part of the beach has been developed into a promenade with snack bars, showers, and restrooms. The other half of the beach is still under construction, but this doesn’t prevent visitors from strolling along the coast and swimming in the shallow waters during low tide and calm weather.


    Near the center of the bay, you’ll find tourist boats along the shore. These boats can take you to Shark Island (photos, Google Maps), just around the corner. The island features shallow waters, coral reefs, colorful fish, and spots for snorkeling, diving, and picnicking. The round trip, including about 10 minutes on the island, is a 30-minute adventure.

    GPS: 25.360658, 56.349235
    Google Maps

    Points of interest in the city (all within walking distance along the promenade):

    • Khorfakkan Amphitheatre – a large amphitheater located right by the seaside.
      GPS: 25.368385, 56.347658
      Google Maps
      Photos
    • Khorfakkan Waterfalls – a waterfall that appears to cascade down from the mountains.
      GPS: 25.366756, 56.348216
      Google Maps
      Photos
    • Historical Village of Khor Fakkan (heritage vllage) – an authentic site replicating an old settlement. It features bustling market stalls with numerous shops and cafés and narrow streets lined with tiny, lifeless houses. Nearby, you can also find archaeological excavations of an ancient military fort.
      GPS: 25.348378, 56.358621
      Google Maps
      Photos
    • Seafront Promenade – a scenic promenade stretching along the entire city, perfect for leisurely walks by the sea.
      Google Maps
      Photos: 1, 2, 3, 4