Property World Dubai

SHOPPING MALLS

Dubai continues to strive to be the shopping capital of the Middle East if not already.  If you are a shopaholic then you will certainly find yourself in paradise. With many shopping malls to choose from all laced with designer shops and accessories at duty free prices puts Dubai in one of the top destinations to visit for a shopping spree.

The shops in Dubai are normally open from 9.00am – 13.00 and 16.00 – 21.00 however the big Shopping Malls are en exception opening all day from 10.00am -10pm if not later. You will also find that some supermarkets are open 24hrs. On Friday the Islamic day of rest some shopping centers are closed in the mornings from 11.30 – 13.30 but the bigger shopping malls are an exception and stay open at as normal.

Please check with the required Shopping Mall first for exact opening hours.

Below is a list of Shopping Malls currently open:

 

Burjuman Center                                                             Mall of the Emirates

Deira City Center                                                             Mercato

Dubai Mall                                                                        Wafi City Mall

Marina Mall                                                                       Ibn Battuta Mall

 

MALL OF THE EMIRATES

The Mall of the Emirates in Dubai opened on September 28^th 2005 and is one of the most impressive malls in Dubai.

This 223,000 square meter centre is a venue designed to cater for everyone’s entertainment and leisure needs. It features 466 International brands including well known department stores, designer shops, fashion, electronics, jewellery, lifestyle, home furnishings and more. Also includes over 60 unique stores and the largest Carrefour supermarket in Dubai.

You will never hear the words “I’m bored” in the Mall of the Emirates as with all the other attractions it hosts it will have you returning for more. Apart from shopping you can indulge in one of many fine restaurants or family fun venues, lounge in the many cafe bars or simply hang out in a cocktail bar before hitting the 14 screen multiplex cinema whilst tucking into a large bowl of popcorn.  For the kids there is a Magic Planet family entertainment area, the world renowned Ski Dubai and the DUCTAC- 500 seat community theatre and accompanying arts centre. Attached to the mall is the elegant five stars Kempinski Hotel where one can book in for a night of pampering.

The opening hours are:

Sunday-Wednesday 10:00am-10:00pm

Thursday-Saturday 10:00am-12:00 midnight

Carrefour

Every day-09:00-12:00 midnight

For opening hours of Ski Dubai, Magic Planet, CineStar and Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre, please call them direct on the below numbers:

Ski Dubai				+(9714) 409 4000
Carrefour				+(9714) 409 4899
Magic Planet				+(9714) 341 4444
CineStar				+ (9714) 341 4222
DUCTAC				+(9714) 341 4777

For general enquiries please call the Mall of the Emirates direct (+9714) 409 9000

 

DUBAI MALL

The world largest shopping mall opened in Dubai November 2008. It is the equivalent to more than 50 soccer pitches with an internal floor space of 5.9 million sq ft and gross area of 12 million sq ft.

The Dubai Mall is the flagship development of Emaar Malls Group, the shopping malls subsidiary of global property developer Emaar Properties.

Dubai Mall is located in Downtown Bur Dubai next to the world’s largest building- The Burj Dubai and the world largest and most impressive water feature – Dubai Fountain. The fountain is spread over the 30-acre Burj Dubai Lake where water shoots to a height of 500 ft (150 meters). The fountain is 900 ft (275 meters) long and has five circles of varying sizes and two central arcs. It has been designed by California-based WET, the creators of the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas.

The Fountain has a beam of light shooting towards the sky and can be seen from over 20 miles away. The water that shoots up will dance in co-ordination with award winning songs in the most beautiful and enchanting way. This truly is a remarkable vision not to be missed.

Dubai Mall is not just any Mall it will be the hub of Dubai’s ultimate shopping and entertainment experience. It will host 1,200 stores from designer to high-street fashion names and also included is 2 anchor department stores – Galerries Lafayette and Bloomingdales.

There will also be 220 gold and Jeweler outlets, 160 food and beverage outlets and Dubai’s largest food court with 40 dining areas a supermarket and organic food supermarket.

But that is not all!

Dubai Mall will include many other attractions that will keep you entertained and busy for days on end, as one visit surely is not enough. Other features at Dubai Mall include “The Grove” an outdoor community area lined with trees and landscaped walkways, cafes and restaurants where a fully retractable roof is in operation bringing the outside inside.

Also included is KidZania an 80,000sq ft innovative children’s edu-tainment area, SEGA Republic a 76,000 sq ft indoor theme park, an indoor ice rink and a 22 screen Cineplex.

Another Key attraction at Dubai Mall is Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.  It is one of the largest tanks in the world and features the world’s largest viewing panel with a 270 degree walk through tunnel. The aquarium will hold more than 33,000 living animals with over 85 species including a combination of over 400 sharks and rays.

 

At the Dubai Aquarium you can also visit the Underwater Zoo where you can come face to face with some of the most deadly and playful animals- like the Piranha, the Giant Catfish and the ever so friendly Otters, Seals, Penguins and much, much more.

Whatever you see and wherever you go Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo will have you completely mesmerized.

 

IBN BATTUTA MALL DUBAI

Located close to the JLT area (Jumeirah Lake Towers) and Discovery Gardens is Ibn Battuta Mall. It is positioned just off the Sheikh Zayed Road with the Dubai Metro stopping just outside and a bus depot also adjacent.

The Ibn Battuta Mall was inspired by an Islamic traveller and adventurer named Ibn Battuta, and it was his travelling experiences to various destinations that led to the design and creation of the largest themed mall in the world today.

Each region explored is reflected in the architecture and theme of the malls six courts; Andalusia, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India and China, therefore making your shopping experience different every time you wonder through another area.

The Mall consists of 275 retailers, 50 restaurants and food outlets and a 21 cinema screen IMAX.

IBN BATTUTA MALL TRADING / OPENING HOURS

 

Sunday - Wednesday							10.00 am - 10.00 pm
Thursday – Saturday							10.00 am - 12.00 pm

 

RESTAURANTS & FOOD COURT

Saturday - Friday

10.00 am - 12.00 pm

 

GEANT HYPERMARKET

Saturday - Friday

09.00 am - 12.00 pm

EXPLORE THE DESERT

If you are searching for adventure and want to see Dubai in its true form then why not head for the desert which can be explored in many exciting ways. If you want to live like an Arabian then try a Camel ride Safari the old traditional way of travel or if you like a bit of rough and tumble then to try the Jeep Safari or quad biking for the extreme adrenalin rush.

DUBAI DESERT SAFARI TOUR

There are many enchanting ways to explore the desert and a trip to Dubai would not be complete without visiting the amazing desert sand dunes.

The Dubai Desert Safari is one of the best ways to see the dunes in their full glory and this trip is a thrilling day out for all to enjoy. To start the day prepares you for a roller coaster ride of the dunes, shaken not stirred comes to mind. When you arrive at desert camp a whole host of activities can be enjoyed, a camel ride being one. To conclude the day you will be entertained by an exotic belly dancer whilst tucking into a freshly prepared BBQ.

The Dubai desert safari also does a night tour which is the Dubai Overnight Desert Safari where you get to set up camp in the exclusive authentic Bedouin Desert, This is where you can indulge in activities of all local natures and watch the sun set over the red desert dunes.

This is a couple of tours you can do to see the desert, check with your chosen excursion supplier what is included in the price.

DUBAI TOUR

If you want to get a feel of how life was before it was a modern Dubai, then take a ride on the Dubai City Tour coach. It will give you a glimpse into ancient Arabic culture and heritage combined with the cosmopolitan life today. The tour will guide you to the Grand Jumeriah mosque and on route you will pass the amazing palace of the Sheik along the beach road. You will ride the water taxi across the creek to the spice souk and gold souk where Dubai gets the name ‘City of Gold’.

BIG BUS TOUR – DUBAI

One of the best ways to see and learn about the creation of Dubai is sitting back and listening in on the marvellous stories that unfold on the magical BIG BUS TOUR. This tour takes you around all the famous landmarks that give Dubai its name today, and why it is now known to be one of the fastest developed countries in the world.

There are two tours you can do to enjoy the sights of Dubai as to do all in one day is impossible. So you can if you want do 2 days of tours taking in all of Dubai's history and future during different parts of your stay in Dubai.

The City Tour (Red Route) stop at the following places:

- Wafi Mall

- Creek Walk and Danat Dubai Berth

- Al Fahidi Fort ( Dubai Museum)

- Dubai Old Souk

- Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House

- Gold Souk

- Abra Station

- Deira City Center

- Burjuman Mall

- Karama

The Beach Tour (Blue Route) stop at the following places:

- Deira City Centre

- Wafi Mall

- Jumeirah Mosque

- Mercato Mall

- Jumeirah Beach Park

- Jumeirah Public Beach

- Souq Madinat Jumeirah

- Atlantis on Palm Jumeirah

- Mall of the Emirates

- Dubai Mall

- Dubai Festival City


You may hop on and off the bus as you wish while your ticket is valid and also the tour can be listened in eight different languages you just select your preferred choice.

 

SKI DUBAI

Who would have thought that in the middle of a desert you would find a mountain with snow! Well yes you can now pack your ski gear. In the middle of Dubai you will now find an indoor mountain with snow where one can enjoy those winter activities. Ski Dubai has 5 runs varying in difficulty with the longest run being 400 meters with a fall of 60 meters. Snowboarders and skiers both get the chance to perform stunts on a 90 meter long quarter pipe. Whatever pace you are at all can enjoy Ski Dubai at the Mall of the Emirates.

 

 

WILD WADI WATER THEME PARK

For those who fancy a day away from the beach or the hotel pool and want a bit of excitement then head to Wild Wadi Water Theme Park. The park is a playground of challenging adrenalin pumping water slides and attractions for all to enjoy.

 

TOUR OF ABU DHABI

Abu Dhabi the capital of the United Arab Emirates is a spectacular place you should visit if staying in the neighbouring Emirate Dubai.

Abu Dhabi has evolved tremendously over the past 50 years, as it once was just a small fishing and pearling village. Today it is a place that attracts many visitors for all kinds of occasions whether it is business or pleasure the grandness of Abu Dhabi mesmerises all. With its sophisticated shopping malls and green boulevards, lush gardens and sky-scraping buildings there is something for everyone to explore.

The Abu Dhabi tour will take you to all the highlights of Abu Dhabi where you can also take in all surrounding aspects on route.

From Dubai you will firstly pass the enormous Jebel Ali Port which is the biggest man made port in the world, and then as you continue you will be later greeted to one of the most impressive mosques in the world.

The next attraction to be seen is the renovated AL HUSN PALACE now home to the Centre for Documentation and Research- where you will gain knowledge and further understanding about the so called “black gold” OIL!

The tour will take you around the city displaying the sheer magnitude of wealth the city now possesses.

Then finally you will visit the Women Handicraft Centre where you can watch how local gifts are made traditionally.

This really is a great tour to see the Capital of Abu Dhabi!

JUMEIRAH MOSQUE DUBAI

The Jumeirah Mosque is the only mosque in Dubai where non-Muslims can enter. The Jumeirah Mosque is a centre for cultural understanding set up by Sheikh Mohammed to create awareness and understanding between different nationalities living and visiting the Emirates.

The Mosque was built in 1975 in the medieval Fatimid style, a copy of a larger mosque in Cairo, Egypt and is considered to be one of the most attractive mosques in Dubai.

Jumeirah Mosque holds tours every Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday starting at 10:00am.

You do not need to book in advance, just register prior outside the mosque at the meeting point opposite the One Furniture Showroom.

There are some guidelines that need to be followed before you can enter the Mosque:

•    Firstly you are not permitted to enter the mosque unless accompanied by a registered guide from Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding this also applies to Tour Companies.

•    Please dress in a conservative fashion, this applies to men and women so loose trousers, long skirt/dress, long sleeves, and head scarf for women is essential.

•    Do not handle any books displayed on shelves inside the mosque.

•    Please remember to remove shoes.

•    Under 5 years cannot enter the mosque.

•    TV crew and professional photographers are to inform mosque prior to visit.

•    You ARE welcome to bring a camera and take photos inside the mosque.

BEACHES IN DUBAI

The beaches in Dubai will have you spoilt for choice where you can bathe in leisure or join in some nautical sports. One can enjoy snorkeling, fishing, scuba diving and jet skiing. All the beaches are on the Jumeirah side of the creek except Al Mamzar Beach Park. The beaches are a mix of free to use public beaches, public beach with a small fee and private beaches managed by hotels.

JUMEIRAH BEACH DUBAI

Jumeirah beach is a mixture of public and private spots. It is the longest stretch of coastline with hotels and private clubs positioned along the front. It is the most popular beach and most well known for its soft white powder sand and the shallow waters of the Arabian Gulf. Also close by is the beautiful and elegant Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

BEACH HOTELS NEAR PALM JUMEIRAH AND JUMEIRAH BEACH

•    Sheraton Jumeirah Beach Resort Dubai
•    Burj Al Arab Hotel Dubai
•    Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Hotel
•    Mina A’Salam Hotel
•    Habtoor Grand Spa Hotel
•    Al Qasar Hotel Dubai
•    Dubai Marine Beach Resort
•    Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort
•    Only Royal Mirage Dubai

AL MAMZAR PARK

You will also find a lovely Public beach on the Deira side of the creek called Al Mamzar Beach. Here you will find public facilities for families to enjoy with BBQ areas and picnic spots including a range of shops and children’s play areas.

MUSEUM

If you want to step back in time then you can also visit Dubai Museum. Some archaeological objects found date back 4000 years. The museum includes items of pottery, ceramic and metalic description to skeletons and stone gravings which were discovered during the digs of Emirate of Dubai (Hatta, Al Soffoh, Al Qusais, and Al Jumeira).

 

GOLF

Dubai is an amazing place not just for shopping, sunbathing or being out in the scorching heat of the desert. You can now come to Dubai and play Golf where the greens are like everything else in Dubai, exceptional!

If you wish to play you can arrange tours with your hotels and many travel tour operators and excursion companies.

 

Arabian Ranches Golf Club					+9714 366 3000
Dubai Country Club					+9714 333 1155
Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club					+9714 295 6000
Emirates Golf Club					+9714 380 2222
Jebel Ali Golf Resort and Spa					+9714 814 5555
The Montgomerie Golf Club					+9714 390 5600

YACHTING

If you are not a millionaire but would like to live the life of one for a day you can also enjoy a day out at sea on board your very own luxury yacht. These tours can be arranged through your hotels and through the yacht clubs.

 

HORSE RACING

Although it is illegal to bet in Dubai a day at the races is not to be missed. Dubai is second in line to be one of the top destinations to visit for horse racing, first place going to Ireland.

 

 

 

Mentioned above are just a few things to keep you entertained during your stay in Dubai but there is plenty more to see and do - the list is endless.  For the ultimate view of Dubai you can also see it from Arial view in your very own Helicopter Tour- ask your hotel for further information or contact an excursion office.

 

DUBAI MOTOR RACING

Dubai is a place which has been created to wow the world and there is no stopping them achieving their goal of being the best.

Dubai has added to their list of creations and has built one of the world’s most prestigious state of the art Formula One race tracks, although they have not succeeded in winning the contract to host Formula One in Dubai- Yet!!

In February 2007 Bernie Ecclestone signed a deal with Abu Dhabi to host the Formula One Grand Prix in November 2009 for a period of 7 years, but many people believe it won’t be long before Dubai also gets the green flag to host at the F1 at The Dubai Autodrome in the near future.

The Dubai Autodrome has been built to world class standards and opened in 2004 which includes an FIA sanctioned 5.39km circuit with 6 different configurations. There is also a race and driving school and a CIK-approved Karting track.

It was in 2006 the first national motor racing programme began in the UAE which included the GTI Cup. The official inauguration was in October 2004 when it hosted the final round of the GT Championships.

The president of Dubai Autodrome HH Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum stated in January 2007 that they are committed to adhering to the highest international standards in all major events in the UAE and the Middle East. His aim with the Autodrome is to create an international landmark that will host major racing championships and maybe one day Formula One.

 

THE MADINAT JUMEIRAH

The Arabian Resort of Dubai

Madinat Jumeirah meaning “City of Jumeirah” is extravagant in all areas: part hotel, part leisure resort with souk and theatre.

The name was based on the resort including many key points that make up a city. The bulk of the resort is the Mina A’Salam Arabian themed hotel where public areas include many restaurants and bars and hosting Dubai’s only theatre.

Everything in the resort of Jumeirah is fake, from the windtowers to the, souks to the abras that ply the 4km of waterways, but it does pay tribute to Dubai’s heritage and ancient Arabian character.

The Madinat Jumeirah is a very popular destination for visitors due to the exotic surroundings and the relaxing vibrant atmosphere. There are many fine restaurants to choose between and outside live music events are staged in the 1,000 seat amphitheatre which backs onto the waterway.

For those seeking a livelier place to continue the evening you could also visit Dubai’s largest nightclub Trilogy – a leading venue where top DJ’s perform.

Madinat Jumeirah is a good place to visit day or night and is a great tourist hot spot not to miss.

 

THE SOUKS

For shoppers, the street markets of Deira are a treasure-trove of jewellery, clothing and exotic spices. They also explain Dubai’s origins as an international trading post.

The “souk” meaning market is where one must indulge and experience when visiting Dubai as it portrays a true reflection of traditional Dubai.
In the heart of Deira’s old town, the gold souk is a place where streets are lined with shops selling gold jewellery. Most is pure 24-carat but you can also request 18-21 and 22-carat pieces.

If you can’t find anything to your taste then you can always ask a craftsman to design you something special.

Beside the gold souks there are textile souks where you can find anything form sandals to saris and pashminas to shishas and other souvenirs.

The textile souk is where your haggling will pay off but do not expect much discount in the gold souks as they do not need to lower their prices.

You can also wonder around the other souks of Deira like the spice souk located on Old Baladiya Road where it occupies an alley alongside the parimeter road in the Al Ras neighbourhood. You can see why the souks are postioned here.

This is where you will find alongside the creek; dhows carrying spices and other commodities and other goods like tea. The best buy is saffron and vanilla pods in varying levels of quality.

Other Commodities

The Souks in Dubai are enchanting and whatever you are searching for a shopkeeper will be able to assist. The perfume souks offers thousands of different aromas and fragrances but again if there is something you cannot find to your taste then the shop merchant will make you up a unique concoction to your liking.

Whilst at the souks you may want to visit either in the morning or in the evening as this will be your opportunity to buy some fresh caught fish. Anything from king Fish, Red Snapper, Rock Cod, Barracuda, Tuna, Lobster, Crab, King Prawn, Sea Bream, Squid, Shark, Mackerel, Sardine and other species in abundance for most part of the year.

DUBAI NIGHTLIFE

When the sun goes down Dubai is still very much alive with light when the many bars and entertainment venues come to life. Whatever kind of bar you wish to visit then Dubai caters for all, from chic bars to sports venues and lounge bars to night clubs there is something to suit everyone.
Dubai’s nightlife is like its reputation- It has the X Factor; with world class DJ’s and musicians performing regularly in the different clubs and bars across Dubai, every night will be a different and amazing experience.

If you are looking for the Vegas style holiday then you may find yourself slightly disappointed as gambling in Dubai is illegal. But Dubai makes up for the loss of Casinos with fantastic night theatres where you can watch and be entertained by various artists and musicians or simply head out to one of the top night clubs where you can party the night away until 3 am in the morning.

If you are looking for the Vegas style holiday then you may find yourself slightly disappointed as gambling in Dubai is illegal. But Dubai makes up for the loss of Casinos with fantastic night theatres where you can watch and be entertained by various artists and musicians or simply head out to one of the top night clubs where you can party the night away until 3 am in the morning.

For the ladies who like to party then Tuesdays is “Ladies Night” which means that ladies get to drink for free. If you like a crowd then Thursday and Friday nights are most popular as this is the start of the Dubai weekend.

Most of the bars in Dubai are based in hotels with a few exceptions to the rule. For example the Madinat Jumeirah and Souk Al Bahar in downtown Burj Dubai are areas which have licensed bars and restaurants as they fall under the hotels licences that cater for that area.

Dubai does have many laws regarding alcohol and venues that serve alcohol which is, all venues must be closed by 3 am and some before. The legal age to drink alcohol in Dubai is 21 and 25 to enter a nightclub.

However they cannot refuse entrance to anyone of the legal age which also includes member only clubs, but saying that please don’t think you can turn up to any venue and expect to be granted entrance as it depends on capacity and the mix on clientele in venue.

When visiting some Dubai entertainment venues like night clubs and bars that have DJ’s or musicians you may find that an entry fee is charged this can vary from venue to venue and depending on the performer. Expect to pay between 50-100 dhs for normal entry and between 100-200 dhs for special events.

BURJ AL ARAB

The Burj Al Arab - A sail shaped silhouette rising form the waters of the Arabian Gulf dominating the coastline of Dubai soars to a height of 321 meters. It truly is a symbol of the 21^st century and is arguably one of the most luxurious hotels in the world.

Every encounter of this magical experience is something to treasure forever. From the moment you arrive you will be treated like royalty as you are greeted by your chauffeur driven Phantom Rolls Royce, then escorted through security over the bridge to a colourful lit facade. Then you will enter the magnificent atrium before you are then lead to your elegant suite where your very own private butler awaits.

This Impressive hotel is a true landmark and statement of Dubai’s achievements – Excellence!

 

Facilities at Burj Al Arab

There are many adventures that one can endure whilst being captivated by the sheer magnitude and grace the Burj Al Arab offers. The Assawan Spa & Health Club is one of the magical adventures to embark on. Through the ages it has been used to soothe and stimulate those seeking youthful radiance and vitality. Being pampered is the ultimate way to let go and forget all worries and thoughts and enter a relaxing world letting your mind and spirit be free in a place of harmony.

One of Burj Al Arab’s exquisite restaurants

There are many ultimate dining experiences to tantalise those taste buds and every restaurant is themed in the most amazing way. The Al Mahara being one - which is an award winning seafood restaurant, located underwater displaying the most beautiful parts of the underworld.

 

 

 

 

 

 

An unforgettable dining experience!