Like most tourists, you’ve probably got your list of things to see or do in Dubai. That’s great. However, if you’re looking for something above and beyond the usual, you’ve come to the right place. Here are five offbeat experiences to make your holiday in Dubai a lot more memorable.
1. Watch a show in the desert
Where? Al Hadheerah, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa
Forgive yourself for thinking you’ve stepped into an Arabian fairy tale when you set foot in Al Hadheerah. This desert restaurant, constructed to resemble an Arabian village, gives you a taste of the Middle East not just with its food but also its entertainment. Expect to see tanoura and oud players, caravan shows with camels and horses, belly dancers as well as falconry shows. Make sure the wandering henna artists tattoo your palms after you’ve indulged in a spread that’s fit for a king. Dishes on the buffet include grills (the barbecue prawns being a real showstopper) and hot mezze alongside Emirati staples and traditional desserts. Available from 7pm onwards. Priced at Dhs 375 per person. www.meydanhotels.com/babalshams
2. Sip afternoon tea on a BBQ Donut
Where? Boardwalk, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club
Be the captain of your own ship (literally) while enjoying afternoon tea on Dubai Creek. Steer these ring-like boats that seat a maximum of eight people as you polish off delicious sandwiches, sweet treats, petit fours and the British classic - scones with clotted cream and homemade jams. Afternoon tea costs Dhs 150 per person and includes one hour sailing time. www.dubaigolf.com
3. Have hot chocolate in an ice lounge
Where? Chillout Lounge, Times Square Center
Dubai is home to the Middle East’s first sub-zero lounge. The illuminated interior of Chillout Lounge features ice sculptures and tables and chairs made with ice. Visitors are given thermal wear to help keep warm and are welcomed with a complimentary beverage. For a true feel of the Alps, an order of the signature hot chocolate is a must. If you’d like to peck at something, the menu offers sandwiches, soup and chocolate cake. www.chilloutindubai.com
4. Fly…for a few minutes
Where? iFly Dubai, City Centre Mirdif
The next best thing to a skydive experience is iFly’s indoor skydive experience. It’s just as fun without the vertigo-inducing element! Get up to four metres high in the world’s first double vertical tunnel with an instructor guiding you through the session. The glass wall of the tunnel gives you a bird’s-eye view of Magic Planet, the entertainment centre in which iFly is located. Prices start from Dhs 195 per person. www.theplaymania.com
5. Float in the dead sea pool
Where? Saray Spa, JW Marriott Marquis Dubai
You don’t have to leave Dubai to experience the ‘Dead Sea’. Saray Spa at JW Marriott Marquis Dubai houses a Dead Sea flotation pool, complete with sea salts and minerals from the Dead Sea. Guests can book the Saray Signature Dead Sea treatment (Dhs 990) which includes a scrub using Dead Sea salts, a body mask, a soak in the pool and a massage. www.jwmarriottmarquisdubailife.com
