A Travel Experience by Olivia Bennett
Dubai is unlike any other city on the planet. Bold architecture, unapologetic extravagance, and a skyline that feels almost futuristic define the United Arab Emirates’ largest city. Yet beneath the glass towers and record-breaking landmarks lies something far deeper — a place where Bedouin heritage, ancient trade routes, and ultramodern culture exist side by side.
I arrived in Dubai expecting spectacle. What I didn’t expect was how completely it would exceed my assumptions.
Stretching along the warm waters of the Persian Gulf, Dubai offers countless neighborhoods and places to stay. This time, based on a friend’s recommendation, I chose Rove Downtown Dubai, a stylish yet affordable hotel right in the heart of the city, with sweeping views of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. Modern, comfortable, and thoughtfully designed, it offered everything I look for in a city stay — without sacrificing location or atmosphere.
A Grown-Up Playground
Dubai feels like a playground built for adults. No matter how you like to travel, there’s something here for you. Personally, when I’m in Dubai, I focus on four things: food, history, desert landscapes, and the sea.
You can’t talk about Dubai without mentioning the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. It’s impossible to ignore — and honestly, you shouldn’t try. While there’s no bad time to visit, sunset is truly unforgettable. As daylight fades, the city transforms into a shimmering mosaic of light, and for a moment, it feels like you’re standing inside a dream.
For a long time, I believed Dubai was all shine and no soul. Maybe you’ve thought the same. Compared to cities like Tokyo, London, or New York, I assumed something essential was missing.
I was wrong.
Scratch beneath the surface, and Dubai reveals itself as a city rich in culture, creativity, and extraordinary food.
Old Dubai and Timeless Stories
Before Dubai became a global icon, the coastline was dotted with small fishing villages. To understand the city’s true roots, step away from the skyscrapers and explore the Bastakiya (Al Fahidi) Historic District.
Here, time slows down. Wind-tower houses, narrow alleyways, small museums, and traditional souks offer a glimpse into “Old Dubai” — a city shaped by trade, craftsmanship, and resilience.
After wandering through historic streets and lively markets, I made my way to Bur Dubai Abra Dock. Wooden boats still cross the creek, just as they did decades ago. While only a few operate as fishing boats today, watching them glide across the water feels like witnessing living history.
Beyond the Skyline: The Desert
One of Dubai’s most striking qualities is how quickly the city dissolves into desert. Leave the edge of the skyline, and suddenly you’re surrounded by vast dunes and open horizons.
Winter is the ideal season for a desert safari, especially during early morning or evening hours when temperatures are cooler. Quad biking across the sand, watching the sun dip behind endless dunes, and feeling the quiet of the desert is a powerful contrast to the city’s energy — and one of the experiences that stayed with me the most.
Brunch, Dubai Style
Dubai has quickly earned a reputation as one of the world’s most exciting food destinations, home to award-winning restaurants and bold culinary creativity. And then there’s brunch — an experience Dubai has truly perfected.
Lately, I’ve developed a serious love affair with brunch. It lets me linger in bed a little longer and enjoy dessert with champagne before noon — completely judgment-free. After brunch, I returned to the city’s souks, once thriving centers of local trade and still endlessly fascinating places to explore today.
Yes, they can be crowded, but that’s part of the experience. If you prefer quieter moments, arrive early in the morning, when the markets traditionally came alive before the midday heat.
Art, Water, and Modern Perspectives
Dubai is rapidly establishing itself as a global art hub. Galleries, museums, and cultural centers continue to shape the city’s creative landscape. The Third Line Gallery is a must-visit, featuring rotating exhibitions that highlight contemporary voices from the region and beyond.
For a more relaxed perspective, take to the water. A short boat ride offers stunning views of the city from the sea, reminding you once again how closely Dubai is tied to the Gulf. And don’t miss the famous fountains — see them both during the day and at night for two completely different experiences.
Palm Jumeirah: A City’s Boldest Dream
My first visit to Dubai was in 2019, my very first journey to the Middle East. Back then, I never made it to Palm Jumeirah. This time, I finally understood what I had missed.
Palm Jumeirah is one of the most impressive man-made islands I’ve ever seen. Its palm-shaped design stretches over 11 kilometers and is best admired from The View at The Palm, where panoramic vistas reveal the Arabian Gulf, Dubai’s skyline, and the iconic Burj Al Arab.
What Comes Next
Dubai surprised me. It challenged my expectations and rewarded curiosity. Tomorrow, I head to Abu Dhabi — but that’s a story for another blog.
Until then, follow along on Instagram to see where the journey leads next.