COVID-19 brought the world to its knees, but one country defied all odds and was the first to gradually open up for business – and so when the opportunity from Emirates came for a trip to savor life after lockdown, I gladly obliged.
Dubai was established in the 18th century as a small fishing village. The city grew rapidly in the early 21st century into a cosmopolitan metropolis with a focus on tourism , hospitality and business destination. With this in mind, managers of the city have done everything to bring the city back to normal and ensure that its tourism and other allied industry is still relevant.
Today, Dubai is one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations with the second-most five-star hotels in the world – and the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa.
Every day the city’s skylines are changing. A visit to the city after six months will make one notice significant changes in its skylines,
Built on the mindset of unlimited indulgence, Dubai has at times appeared to be walking in the opposite direction. As other countries wrestled with COVID-19 lockdowns, it was one of the few countries that opened up its borders to travelers from almost everywhere – provided you had a proof of a negative PCR test. While most countries are charging for the test, it is the opposite in Dubai: the test is free and result are ready in 12-hours.
Until case rates hit the roof in December, bars and clubs stayed open late to attract travellers. Dubai has set an example for the rest of the world with the way it has swiftly reopened its borders and economy amid the ongoing coronavirus crisis.
Travel is the number-one wish of everybody as the world waits for the new normal. What is commendable is how Dubai is getting tourism back on track with its pro-active policies, advanced technology, and preventive measures to curb spread of the coronavirus pandemic. Wearing a mask is compulsory everywhere in the city.
With the cooperation of its national carrier, Emirates Airlines, passengers are treated with all the current safety measures to ensure one is safe.
City tour
The tour-guide, who had excellent command of the Queen’s English made life very easy. His knowledge about the city’s history was very remarkable. The amazing thing about our guide despite the fact that he was old he was friendly, respectful and time conscious. Throughout the visit, he kept us engaged with his narrations about the city.
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Dubai is known as a favorite shopping destination. Every travel-lover will find its shopping malls and traditional souks appealing. It boasts the world’s only seven-star hotel. The history, heritage and vibrant lifestyle of this city is captivating
Burj Khalifa
I was excited when the tour-guide announced that we would visit this gorgeous, most ultra-tall skyscraper in the world.
Burj Khalifa was like a dream come true. As we climbed the tallest building in the world by lift, we made several stoppages to see the city from different altitudes. It was awesome.
When you look at the outside from those high floors, the entire city lies within your vision. The feeling is beyond verbal expression. The world seemed to be in reach of your arms from the glass windows.
The safari trip
No trip to Dubai is complete without experiencing the iconic desert safari.
We left for the Desert Safari in the morning from the hotel. It was one of the best experiences of our trip experience. As soon as we reached in the desert, our tour guide took control and made us have a wonderful ride on the dune. We enjoyed a traditional Arabian welcome. There were a series of events lined up for us to enjoy.
It is commonly known that the almost-four-hour trip has different types of desert safaris, including morning, evening and overnight desert safari. However, not many know that companies offer different packages to enjoy these safari types.
These packages vary in terms of facilities and activities, including price and certain other factors. These are the packages many companies offer:
Self-Drive:
With this package, guests are not provided pick and drop facilities. They have to drive to the campsite, which is located quite far from the city, in their own vehicles. This package is more suitable for Dubai residents or those who have their own cars.
Standard Package:
In this package, guests are offered pick and drop services. However, not to and from their accommodation. They are picked up from pre-designated spots in the city and dropped at the same spot as well. Activities and facilities included in this package are also quite limited.
Advanced Package:
This package offers great convenience to visitors. They are picked and dropped from their residence – be it a home, hotel or resort. It also allows them to take part in different activities.
VIP Package:
Also known as the elite package, the VIP package gives visitors real VIP treatment. They are picked up in luxury vehicles and, furthermore, private tables are arranged at the campsite for them.
When it comes to ranking top attractions in the world, my bet would be on the Dubai Desert Safari. It certainly deserves to be included among the five best. A popular tourist destination, it provides numerous fun and thrilling activities which are unforgettable treats for adventure lovers.
The dune drive remains one that will live a lasting memory in your mind.
