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Beyond the gleaming skyscrapers and viral sensations, a different Dubai What awaits, offers a glimpse of its rich traditions and even budget-friendly escapes.
While many people come to see the world’s tallest building, marvel at the heaviest gold ring, or chase TikTok-famous Dubai Chocolate BarAnother aspect of the emirate is thriving.
Here, beyond the dazzling modernity of the city, a quiet, traditional EmiratesThe -style house offers a tranquil retreat that reflects a part of Dubai steeped in heritage and surprisingly accessible.
As I move from the dreary morning in the UK to the 38C heat of Dubai, the relentless hustle and bustle of the city at 2am takes my breath away. Yet, a short trip across the bay to the historic Al Seef area soon brings a welcome sense of peace.
we are welcomed Al Seef Heritage Hotel by Hilton With a cool glass of pomegranate juice, a golf buggy takes us up to our room in a low, flat-roofed building, with a veranda offering spectacular views of the lights and city skyline on the other side of the water.
Tastes, sights, sounds of old Dubai
I would never say no to following in Beyoncé’s footsteps. The next morning, I follow their lead by visiting the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Center for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), one of the oldest areas of Dubai, for a feast of both food and culture.
Over a brunch that includes chicken biryani, rice, bread and small round donuts covered in date syrup, guide Noura Al Marzooqi explains traditional hospitality in Dubai.
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Noora describes the layout of the old house and how the rooms were once used for living and hosting. She explains that being served a small cup of coffee shows affection toward guests – which means the host wants you to stay with them longer.
From clothing to traditions to headwear, no question is off limits as she patiently explains how local apparel protects Emiratis from the scorching heat while working outside.
exploring the souks
The oldest network of markets in Dubai’s Al Khor area is another evocative way to feel the soul of the city. In the narrow streets I find vendors selling everything from spices to gold to flowers, clothes, perfumes and a variety of food.
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Ketaki of Frying Pan Adventures describes these areas as the arteries of the city, as she brings us to many of the most popular food outlets. These include Al Shaiba Bakery, where Afghan bread is baked day and night, making for one of the tastiest and least expensive snacks in the city, despite the heat. The oven is still hot, as I cut into cheese and honey bread and sip some hot sweet tea, honey soon begins to drip from my fingers.
Part of the tour includes a short boat transfer across the bay to another part of the souks, where Hindu influence is evidenced with bright colors and fresh flowers.
Our tour ends at the Al Khaimah Heritage Restaurant, where the owners take pride in the traditional décor and local favorites such as mouth-watering lamb biryani served on low tables.
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a desert safari
One of the most magical experiences of my trip was the heritage safari in a vintage Land Rover. The company, Platinum Heritage, makes sure we’re well dressed as we wrap our heads with scarves to protect from the sun as we drive through the sand as far as the eye can see in vintage Land Rovers.
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Conservation guide Amjad Mahmood clearly has a passion for the landscape and wildlife, explaining conservation efforts, and gently letting us see oryx and the more elusive little sand lizards that roam around the dunes.
As the sun begins to set, we arrive for a falconry display before heading to a beautifully set up camp for a feast under the stars. After the camel ride, we enjoy a musical performance and lie on carpets and low sofas for a guided stargazing session with shisha pipes.
Luxury in the modern city
It is impossible to visit Dubai and not marvel at the aspects that have made the city world famous. The frame is next to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, a giant gold frame stretching into the sky. It also has the added benefit of an exhibition showcasing the city’s rapid transformation from the mid-20th century to the present day. An elevator zooms up the 48-story structure in just 75 seconds for panoramic views across the city.
Boat trips from Dubai Marina offer another view of the city, passing tall skyscrapers in various stages of construction. But no visit to Dubai is complete without a visit to the famous Palm Jumeirah, home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, and the seven-star Burj Al Arab, which is nearby.
Yes, you can save up and splurge on an extravagant trip, but you can also have an authentic experience without breaking the bank.
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how to do it
rooms on Al Seef Heritage Hotel Start from AED 845 (£176) including breakfast.
For more information, visit visitdubai.com
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