14 Things To Love About Dubai

Dubai is a peculiar place.

Is it the most authentic and culturally rich city? Probably not. But! There are definitely some things to really like about this place.

This article will explore 14 reasons why this is a fascinating city, in the United Arab Emirates.

The Wow Factor

Wow! was my first thought when we arrived in Dubai. Dubai has mind-blowing architecture, a mix of insane skyscrapers and traditional Arabian architecture, and famous attractions like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Marina.

Surrounded by these immense buildings, you feel like you’re on a different planet. I got this weird feeling of being so small!

I’ve lived in China for three years, and there are some crazy buildings there, such as this hotel on the 96th floor. But in Dubai, I think it’s next level (literally).

For architecture photography, Dubai is definitely a dream destination.

Superduper cars

I’m not even that much into cars; I don’t even own one! But the number of crazy expensive supercars you see in Dubai is like I haven’t seen anywhere else in the world.

It’s a pretty cool sight to see, with the latest models zooming past the streets.

Safety

Another great thing about Dubai is the level of safety. It feels safe, and you don’t have to worry about anything getting stolen. This is a nice feeling that’s not present in every country.

Dubai is known for its low crime rates (and strict laws), which contribute to this super secure environment. 

Things to do

This is actually one of the things that I couldn’t make up my mind about. Yes, there are many things to do in Dubai. But! All these things are commercial tours and excursions and aren’t authentic activities.

Nevertheless, the amount of things you can do are endless from skydiving, indoor skiing, to diving under water, renting super cars, and living the most luxurious lifestyle.

Adventure seekers might go on desert safaris, dune bashing, and camel rides. Unfortunately I haven’t had time to visit the desert, maybe next time. If it’s anything like Wahiba sands in Oman, it will be worth it.

Convenience

One of the advantages of Dubai is its convenience. The city is well-connected with modern roads, making transportation easy and efficient. Taxis are of high quality, and in my experience, taxi drivers are super friendly. I’ve had several talks with them about where they’re from and how life is in Dubai.

Friendliness of Staff

Having been to many different countries, I have found that the friendliness and hospitality of the staff, basically everywhere in Dubai, is just next level. 

Whether it is in restaurants, shops, or service centers, encountering warm and welcoming staff, people are friendly and they take the time for a chat. Friends told me this as well before I went to Dubai, and having it experienced now, I can say it is true. Definitely a positive thing about Dubai!

Diversity of Cultures

Another thing I noticed is the incredible amount of different cultures. People from all over the world visit and live in Dubai. It truly feels like a hub of the world. I like seeing so many people from different cultures live together.

The Desert

Luckily there is more than just the city. Not far from Dubai is the Arabian desert that you can visit on a day trip.

Surprisingly easy to visit with a baby

First of all, I’m not an expert (yet) in traveling a lot with a baby since Dubai was our first trip with our little one. But the whole trip was easy and smooth. People were caring and considerate, and the experience of traveling with a baby, like taking taxi rides, was really good. 

At Dubai Mall, we were able to hand over our baby car seat and pick it up at the end of the day. It was easy!

The Weather

Dubai is a great destination to visit in the winter. The weather during winter time is just perfect. Not too hot and it cools of a bit in the night which is just perfect.

The traditional clothing

At the start of this article, I mention that Dubai isn’t, in my eyes, the most authentic place you’ll probably visit. But, what is authentic is the traditional clothing many original Dubai residents wear.

It really adds to the feeling of being in a different world in the Middle East.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

I know, it’s not in Dubai! but it is quite easy to do a day trip to this incredibly mosque. I would say it is worth the trip, is is one of the best places in the UAE for photography enthusiast like myself.

Booming economy

Like China, the economy is booming and the city is expanding like crazy. The you visit Dubai for a few days this is not something that makes a lot of difference but when you will stay there much longer it is definitely a plus. 

In China, I performed at over 100 clubs all over the country. This was possible because of the rising economy. The sky was the limit! In Dubai, I’m sure this will be similar. 

But, a booming economy comes with a hefty downside. Working conditions in construction are not good.

Luckily things seem to be improving.

Camera Equipment is Less Expensive

Somehow, camera equipment is a lot cheaper than in Europe!

I found the BHM store and bought a new lens, the Tamron 50-400, for 300 dollars less than in my home country.

If you are visiting Dubai and looking for new camera equipment, it might be a great opportunity to expand your camera arsenal.

Final Thoughts on visiting Dubai

Dubai is such a fascinating place. But would it be my first choice to travel to? Probably not. 

If I were to take the trip all the way there again, I would transfer at the airport to Muscat and spend a week in Oman. Probably my favorite country in the Middle East.

There, much more nature can be explored, and being able to go wild camping anywhere you like is simply unbeatable.

F.A.Q.