Glass Buildings and Desert Storms: A Dubai Delight

Photo of Glass Buildings and Desert Storms: A Dubai Delight 3/10 by Tasneem Merchant — Burj Khalifa, tallest building in the world

Photo of Glass Buildings and Desert Storms: A Dubai Delight 4/10 by Tasneem Merchant — The fastest roller coaster in the world

Photo of Glass Buildings and Desert Storms: A Dubai Delight 5/10 by Tasneem Merchant — Formula Rossa goes at a speed of 240 km/h

Photo of Glass Buildings and Desert Storms: A Dubai Delight 6/10 by Tasneem Merchant — Inside Sheikh Zayed Mosque.

Photo of Glass Buildings and Desert Storms: A Dubai Delight 7/10 by Tasneem Merchant — View from the 124th floor of Burj Khalifa

Photo of Glass Buildings and Desert Storms: A Dubai Delight 8/10 by Tasneem Merchant — The Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi

Photo of Glass Buildings and Desert Storms: A Dubai Delight 9/10 by Tasneem Merchant — A camp at Desert Safari

Photo of Glass Buildings and Desert Storms: A Dubai Delight 10/10 by Tasneem Merchant — Dancer regaling his audience, Desert Safari

It is the land of Emirs and Oil wells. The land of fast cars and faster bikes. It is the place where there is a confluence of cultures and cuisines. It is also home to some architectural wonders that will make you oohh and ahh the wonders of modern technology. Dubai is the 'it' place where almost everything seems possible. This emirate of the UAE is also home to the worlds tallest building - the Burj Khalifa and the man - made island archipelagos - Palm Jumeirah and the World Islands.

It is perhaps the fastest growing city in the world. It has some excellent infrastructure and some really amazing technology.

You will meet people from all walks of life in the super gigantic malls which are built in this city. Each one is a sprawling monster of retail stores and outlets. The Dubai Mall even has a full blown aquarium in it! However, these are not the main attractions of the city. The Burj Khalifa offers a splendid view of the city from its lofty 124th floor. The man - made archipelagos are truly a marvel in their own right. There is also the Atlantis hotel, which is a sight to behold. Go on a desert safari to experience some belly dancing and be treated to some mouthwatering local food.

While in Dubai. also visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It is open for all tourists to visit. The sheer resplendence of the place will blow your mind away. Such is its grandeur. Take a ride on the Dubai metro because its fun and don't miss out the Dolphin show which will melt your heart. How can one miss out possibly the fastest roller coaster in the world? The Formula Rossa will make the adrenaline surge through you like nothing else.

Dubai, as a city is overwhelming. The various elements that make up this city will surprise you at every turn. Keep your eyes wide open, for everything that you see around you spells magnificence. I was in Dubai for grand total of 7 days, and from all I saw and experienced, I was swept off my feet. The Sheikhs do know how to make statement, and they make it in style! Dubai is a feast of extravagance. Indulge in some sweet self pampering in this city of Emirs.

Burj Khalifa - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the enitre world. It was completed in just a span of 6 years and was opened with great pomp and fanfare. The Burj Khalifa is constructed in a 5 petal flower pattern when viewed from above. The viewing deck is situated on the 124th floor which offers a stunning view of the entire desert. The opulence of the Burj Khalifa can stun you into utter speechlessness. On clear days, the view stretches out as far as the eye can see. The vast desert seems to stretch on to the ends of the world. The musical fountain show, which happens at every 15 minutes is also a delight to watch.

World Islands - The World Islands - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

The World Islands are a cluster of tiny islands which well, form the world. The yiny islands, along with the Palm Jumeirah archipelago were formed as a plan to increase the coast line of Dubai to offer tourists more sun, surf and sand. An engineering marvel, the Islands are home to famous celebrities such as Tom Cruise, David Beckham and Shah Rukh Khan. It is a pleasant and soothing ride to these islands in the lap of the sea. With windows rolled down and mild wind playing with your hair, a trip to these archipelagos is a good way to spend half the day, most preferably the evening when the sun is mellow.

Ferrari World - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

The Formula Rossa is one of the fastest roller coasters in the world. With speeds upto 240 km/h, this is sure to induce fear in the bravest of hearts. Those who are courageous enough to bear these heart stopping speeds and ride the roller coaster are required to wear glasses for the fear of air bourne particles or insects getting into the eyes. Though situated in Abu Dhabi, The Formula Rossa is not an extremely far drive from Dubai. The entire ride on the roller coaster lasts a total of 1 and half minute. You know where to head to get that adrenaline pumping.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque - Al Maqta'a - Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

The Sheikh Zayed Mosque also serves as the rest place for the Emir of the same name. This mosque is possibly the largest in the UAE and employs fiber optics to light it up. It contains ornate and exquisite marble inlay work, similar to that which is found in the Taj Mahal in India. Though open to all who visit it, the women are required to wear the 'abaya' a flowing black gown and men are required to cover their heads. Here's an interesting fact: The wall to wall rug in the mosque was originally mad in Iran. It was later shipped to Abu Dhabi, and finished in the mosque itself. The entire rug in handmade and hence, the women working on it were transported along with the rug for its completion. Now if that isn't extravagance, I don't know what is!

Atlantis

For those who seek a little over indulgence, Atlantis, The Palm is the place to stay. This magnificent Hotel is located on the palm Jumeriah and lights up like a castle at night. From the entire Hotel is theme based, as you must have guessed from its name, on the lost city of Atlantis. It has its own vast Aquarium which contains props which reflect a submerged civilization. It is a top of the line hotel and was thrown open to visitors on the 24th of September 2009. The lobby is constructed in such a way that one can roam around the lobby without disturbing the guests and visitors can enjoy a walk through its super sized aquarium.

Desert Safari Dubai - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Enjoy a night out on the dunes of the vast desert with the Desert Safari. If you are lucky, you might spot a black buck amidst the golden sand. There are several companies which take tourists to their allotted spot and entertain them to some belly dancing and delicious food. One can even enjoy the camel rides which are offered. The desert safari starts in the evening, and after seeing the sun drown in the sandy expanse, the journey proceeds on wars to the camp. It takes about 3 - 4 hours for the entire experience to culminate in an ending of pleasant memories. This should definitely be on the top of your 'Things - to - do - in - Dubai' list.