We’ve finally made it! Habibi, welcome to Dubai!
I’ve been to Dubai a few times before, both for business and pleasure. It’s a massive city, filled with towering skyscrapers and a diverse population. Here, aesthetics matter an absolute great deal; it’s about style and wealth.
This is the main difference between Dubai and Riyadh. While Riyadh is a growing city, it hasn’t yet achieved the global appeal of Dubai. Dubai’s allure lies in its luxury and wealth, attracting both the wealthy and the middle class seeking better opportunities.
The weather significantly determines the best time to visit Dubai. During the pleasant winter season (October to April), exploring the city is ideal. However, the humid summer months (May to September) reduce tourism and are known as the low season. I moved to Dubai just before winter’s end, which was a convenient time to settle in.
Sightseeing Adventures in Dubai
Dubai feels different – It feels like a new home, an expansive place filled with new possibilities. I traveled with my partner, she was excited about Dubai. Her positive energy and eagerness to explore Dubai made our trip even more enjoyable.
As is typical for females, she immediately fell in love with Dubai. She was adventurous, exploring the city on her own. When we reunited in the evenings, we went on a bunch of mini adventures. Here’s a list of eight adventures we explored during our two weeks in Dubai:
1. AfroLoud Dubai, Ain Dubai – This music festival, held right beneath the iconic Ain Dubai wheel, celebrated Afrobeats, Afrohouse, and Amapiano music. AfroLoud Dubai was an enjoyable night, featuring a live performance from Afrobeats star Victony.
2. Dubai Marina – One of the city’s oldest segments, Dubai Marina creates a serene atmosphere that invites you to engage in various physical activities (such as walks, runs, etc) while taking in the surrounding views.
3. Dubai Fountains & Burj Khalifa – The choreographed water displays synchronized with music at the Dubai Fountains are mesmerizing. Even better, located right next to the Fountains and standing at 820 metres is the world’s tallest building – the Burj Khalifa. The Burj Khalifa is an engineering marvel and a must-see for visitors.
4. Museum of the Future – Now, let’s step into the Museum of the Future, an augmented reality adventure that takes you on a journey through time. You get to explore different floors that showcase the UAE’s envisioned contributions to space civilization by 2071. Visiting the Museum of the Future was highly engaging and worth the visit.
5. Lekki on Deck – A vibrant rooftop bar and restaurant that offers an unlimited brunch over a four-hour live DJ set. The stunning views and lively atmosphere make it a perfect spot to catch some vibes and unwind.
6. Leen’s Rooftop – Leen’s Rooftop is an aesthetic gem of a bar and restaurant with breathtaking views of the Museum of the Future. It’s a must-visit for those seeking a luxurious dining experience or a quiet ambiance.
7. Louvre Abu Dhabi – Step into the world of art and culture at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, an exquisite museum designed in white and grey tones – encircled by water. The museum’s visual appeal was instantly captivating, attracting a lively crowd throughout the day.
8. Walkable Dubai – While Dubai is known for its awesome sights, one of the overlooked ways to experience the city is simply by walking. From stylish promenades to hidden pockets of relaxation, Dubai’s walkable areas make it surprisingly easy to explore on foot and soak in the vibe of the city at your own pace
Sightseeing in Dubai
What’s Next?
Dubai has been an incredible experience, but I’ve only scratched the surface. There’s still so much more to explore, but I’ll have to do it at a slower pace to achieve work life balance and remain financially savvy.
What are my long-term plans for Dubai? Similar to Riyadh, my main focus will be on building my career and growing my wealth. Of course, I’ll also enjoy life, travel, and aim to make a positive impact during these crazy times we live in. Let’s get started. Let’s grind…
Stay tuned for the next article, where we’ll delve deeper into the reasons behind Dubai’s high cost of living and explore how to find opportunities for relocating to Dubai.
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