Dubai the Dream, the Envy or a Dismal Dark Place for Foreigners?

The Palm - Atlantis

Before we head into dissecting the myth, the truths, and even the unbelievable variations of this enchanting isle, let’s delve into what led to the formation of this ultra-luxurious city. Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum transformed a small fishing village into this monumental region, deemed a pearl amidst miles of sand. Beautiful, mind-blowing and world-renowned architecture draws travelers from near and far to explore the vast and wealth driven nation that has transformed lives in many ways some for the best; achieving wealth and excellence to be envied by many while others, the often unspoken therefore unheard stories of the down-trodden tourists that their lives took a drastic turn for the worst. But let’s face the facts all over the world there are the good and the bad but Dubai is a must-see vacation spot. You shouldn’t hesitate to head over to Across N Abroad travel https://www.acrossnabroadtravel.com/ and allow the travel connoisseur, Toni Reid to unlock a visionary masterpiece with her detailed and well-crafted itinerary for the trip of a lifetime.

There is no major city in the world quite like the Pearl of Persia, located smack dab on the edge of the Arabian desert on the Persian Gulf. Luxury vehicles are being driven by most, if not all, residents, and a police fleet of vehicles equipped with a Porsche Panamera, a Ford Mustang GT, a Chevrolet Camaro SS, and even a Bentley Continental GT. The average American is unable to attain and afford such luxuries, let alone be assisted by policemen and women in such spectacular rides. Whether your dream, vision, or purpose for travel is to discover the hidden truths or revel in the beauty and grandeur that is Dubai, we will discuss the many sides of Dubai, and you can make an informed decision about whether to travel or not.

When asked about the history of Dubai, the conversation generally begins with the mention of “the creek,” a natural harbor that soon transformed this sand-covered region into the center of fishing, pearl diving, and international sea trade. It was in 1966 that Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum discovered oil and launched a significant effort to transform revenues and reorganize Dubai’s infrastructure, ultimately creating the ultra-luxurious city it is today. If you are a lover of beauty and exceptional monuments, Dubai boasts many of the world's largest and grandest skyscrapers. Setting sail to explore wondrous and unheard-of vacation spots boasting seven-star hotels? The Burj Al Arab would be the ideal hotel accommodation for you to view the majestic landscape and live in the lap of luxury, even for just a few days of your vacation. “Dubai only had a dribble of oil compared to neighboring Abu Dhabi… so Sheikh Maktoum decided to make the desert bloom.”[1] The face of the Sheikh beams down far and wide across the buildings in Dubai, serving to some as a reminder of the visionary who put in motion several plans of revenue to establish sustenance despite the rapidly changing world. Dubai is the most luxurious city and a golden star dream vacation spot for visitors to let go of their troubles and immerse themselves in the land of the party and great fun creating memories to last a lifetime.

Others want more than the memories to last and leap to attain a long-lasting home in a beautiful city. Some make the most of it and grow, flourish, and achieve the much sought-after wealth and address, while others, those who explore the underbelly of society, are less inclined to speak of how amazing Dubai is. Karen Andrews, one such individual, describes the city as an “Adult Disney Land”[2]. Basking in all its splendor and intrigue, she and her boyfriend moved to Dubai for a job in a division of “a famous multinational”[3]. They soon discovered fun and vivacious offerings, partying endlessly and doing absolutely nothing for themselves as they waited upon hand and foot. Shortly after, they stumbled upon hard times, ultimately losing everything, and sought to leave before it was too late. However, their plans were ultimately foiled, and they did lose everything. Unable to freely speak due to the harsh and gut-wrenching emotions, she now lives in her car in a car park as the attendants can’t find it within themselves to ask her to move along. Dubai exists and is just as real, if not more so, than its grand aspects. The western concept of bankruptcy does not exist, and you have to answer for all your crimes, no matter how small or large you deem them to be.

Like most things in life, there is great fun to be had and much to see and learn; however, there are harsh penalties to follow for behavior not in line with their beliefs. So, imagine the dark side of National Geographic’s hit series Locked Up Abroad. Be not disheartened however nor frightened into a stiffened stupor as this is merely what happens in all nations, not the harsh reactions but more so the fact that if you act contrary to what is expected of the country you are in, you will be subjected to their punishments and not those you are used to in your home country.

Dubai boasts numerous luxurious and majestic monuments and is renowned for its impressive megastructures and captivating skyscrapers. Herein, we’ll discuss a few of the phenomenal structures that make visiting Dubai a truly remarkable experience.

Dubai Museum

“It was in 1799 when Al Fahidi Fort was established and believed to be the oldest building in Dubai.”[4] The museum offers a culture rich in history and an exceptional trip to desert life. If you seek to broaden your knowledge of this wondrous location and yearn for a deeper understanding of how Dubai evolved into the massive attraction it is today, this is a must-visit destination on your next trip. Adventure awaits - let’s get started!

Bastakiya Quarters

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

This area of Dubai offers an insight into the old Dubai, before the construction of high-rises and jaw-dropping structures. Think back to the village days by the creek. A tour of this region will allow the feeling of being in old-time Dubai, the sand/ fishing and pearl-diving village an era before the oil and tremendous fast-growing boom structures in existence today.

Tourists are welcome to visit the shopping mall of the Arab region, the epic center for all things luxurious and grand. Feel safe, knowing that the police force has cars as fast as or even faster than the average vehicles in the wealthy nation. Now that’s what you’d call a highspeed chase. Though there are much development and growth to be seen and experienced there is much attention played to maintain the historical value and authenticity that is Dubai history.

Grand Mosque

With grand ancient traditional Persian designs, the aesthetic is truly enamoring and quite impressive. The Grand Mosque was constructed with an Islamic design of historic and rich value, it stands incredibly tall and is a prominent landmark of Dubai’s place to worship. If you a religious type and seek to expand your knowledge of the world’s places of worship, the Grand Mosque is a must-see landmark in Dubai. Imagine beautiful arches and domes aplenty.

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House

This house was built in 1896 was declared a monument and thereafter a museum subsequent to the death of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum. “Presently this museum boasts of photos that describe the different generations of the Al Maktoum.”[5]A phenomenal means of exploring the history of the development of Dubai.

Palm Islands

The world-famous Palm Islands have most certainly become one of the best-known features/ iconic landmarks of Dubai. The Palm Islands are quite the spectacle to behold and most certainly serve the purpose Sheikh Maktoum hoped it would be as a widespread tourist phenomenon. Visitors from far and wide travel to feast their eyes upon the luxury and unmatched beauty.

Heritage House

Heritage House is the house of a rich pearl merchant built in 1890 and restored in 1994. Culturally rich, visitors are offered a traditional Emirate-style snack of chickpeas and tea. Beautiful and built to withstand the comings and goings of tourists and residents alike, it is an architectural beauty unlike most others. Rooms are decorated in a custom style and offer a unique ambiance.

Dubai is a phenomenal and beautiful place to visit, a region rich in culture and has beauty for miles, whether you are an architectural guru and are enamored by the luxury offered by high rises or skyscrapers, or you are a thrill-seeker wanting to ride the vast dunes, the region offers a plethora of sightseeing. A trip of a lifetime that will guarantee memories of a lifetime! Toni Reid is a premier travel agent and travel connoisseur. Head over to Across N Abroad Travel agency and allow yourself to venture on a whirlwind adventure, experiencing parties, beautiful hotel spaces, and wonderful people. Always remember to be respectful of another country’s rules and regulations, to ensure you stay on the right side of the law. I’m certain you don’t want to end up on another episode of Locked Up Abroad.