Dubai: the perfect summer holiday destination
In association with Dubai Tourism and Value Added Travel
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The best way to really appreciate the scale and splendour of Dubai is by helicopter. A 25-minute tour soaring above the city reveals how the once barren desert has been transformed into the jewel in the crown of the Arabian Gulf.
From the stunning Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building at 828m, to the amazing Palm Jumeirah and The World islands, Dubai is a testament to man's vision and ambition. It's easy to see why it has become one of the world’s top tourist destinations.
The city is one of the seven United Arab Emirates and is well served by airlines, with direct flights from London taking under seven hours. One of the best times to visit is from June to August as Dubai's hotels offer deals and discounts on accommodation, and promotions on dining and attractions.
If you're looking for an ideal break for you and your partner then aim to book before the summer holidays, check in to one of the many sumptuous five star spa hotels and prepare to be pampered with the city's legendary service.
For something more romantic you must sign up for an overnight desert safari. Spend the day on the dunes spotting oryx and gazelles and then sleep out under the stars in a Bedouin camp for a truly memorable experience.
Dubai is the ultimate shopping destination so if you need a dose of retail therapy you've come to the right place. No visit is complete without a trip to The Dubai Mall - the world's largest shopping mall with entertainment complex with over 1,200 shops vying for your dirham. The Gold Souk is where to head if bling is your thing. Its narrow lanes are packed with retailers all selling gold, making it a great place to try out your bartering skills to bag that timeless, glittering souvenir of the city.
If you want to soak up some culture then the Muslim holy month of Ramadan (18 June-17 July) is a perfect time to visit. After fasting during the day (tourists are not expected to) Dubai comes alive at night as locals and tourists break the fast by heading to one of the many Iftar tents to feast on delicious Arabic dishes. Shops are open late into the evening and the Ramadan Night Market is worth a visit.
With its warm climate, perfect beaches and welcoming nature, Dubai is rightly gaining a reputation as the perfect place for a family break. During the summer holidays the hotels have plenty of family-friendly deals, Including free access to the Wild Wadi Waterpark for guests staying at any of the Jumeirah Hotels, while families at the Atlantis can enjoy the delights of Aquaventure and The Lost Chambers.
A day out on the slides and rides and a chance to enjoy interactions with dolphins will appeal to kids of all ages. Throw in the delights of Sega Republic, KidZania: a virtual childsize city for kids to role-play numerous jobs , Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and even the chance to try out skiing at Ski Dubai, you have all the hallmarks of a family getaway to treasure for years to come.
A 5-night half board stay for a family of four (two adults and two children up to 14) in a Deluxe Palm sea view room at the Waldorf Astoria is now available for just £589 for dates between 10 June and 31 August. That's a saving of 30 per cent on the usual rate. Get the deal here
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