As one pans the globe for "hot" destinations, Dubai is certainly on most top-10 lists. This has not happened out of the blue however: it is part of Dubai's master plan to make the emirate a tourism mecca, as well as one of the world's important cities. And the incredible growth in hotels, facilities, and the use of Dubai as a growing cruise line hub, is sparking huge growth and a growing influx of tourists worldwide. Room occupancies areincredibly high.
At the end of 1999, what was then the world's tallest hotel opened, the top-of-the-line Burj Al Arab. (Out of a possible top 5-star rating for a hotel, the Burj received seven stars!) Today, Dubai is building what it aniticpates again to be the world's tallest building and will maintain that position for quite some time. The emirate is building Dubailand, which will be twice the size of all of Disney's theme park.
While just taking Dubai in is reason enough to visit, other worthwhile activities may include:
-- modern and traditional gold and spice souks (markets)
-- Indian street markets
-- restaurants and art galleries in the restored Bastakiya Quarter
-- dhow activity along the waterfront
-- visiting a mosque
-- traditional Arabian banquet and show in the desert at Bab Al Shams
-- Wild Wadi water park
-- Ski Dubai, located in the Mall of the Emirates
From the U.S., Emirates Air provides direct service from New York, and is set to start service from othe U.S. cities.
