In our last guide to Dubai, we spoke about some of the more essential factors that are required by anyone entering Dubai, as well as some pointers on the culture and customs in Dubai. This guide will help you understand Dubai more not just as a city but how it evolved over the centuries. 

From there, we take you on a tour through the various sights of Dubai throughout the old and new sections, as well as a tour through parts of the Arabian desert. 

From The Days Of Old: 

For a land that seems devoid of history at first sight, Dubai is just the opposite. This unique city’s early origins can be traced to years of trading between the early civilizations of the Indus Valley and Mesopotamia. The vast sands were also home to reserves of metals that played a good part in the Iron Age of civilization. It was in the 11th century that mentions of Dubai started appearing in literature everywhere. During this time, the small settlements in the general region were also said to be a popular hotspot for pearling. Dubai and indeed the rest of the middle east soon became a hub for fishing and pearling. 

It was during the 18th century that trade in Dubai started developing, and it became an important port by the 20th century. Eventually in 1966, a certain black liquid was discovered by the soldiers of the then Sheikh, and the rest is something you may be familiar with. After the discovery of the oil fields, Dubai prospered with international interest and today is one of the richest cities in the world, exuding glamor and becoming the ultimate travel destination for anyone seeking a luxurious escape. 

What To See On Your 2020 Dubai Vacation:

Now that you have an idea of Dubai’s growth through the ages, what does this sprawling metropolis have to show you? Quite a lot, as it turns out. 

Guide To A 2020 Dubai Vacation – Old Dubai –  Image Credits – wikimedia.org

Old Dubai: 

The story above is more than a historic recollection; it also gives us an insight into what you can expect to see on your Dubai vacation. There are sights that are old and new; a perfect amalgamation of cultures just as it was then. Old Dubai is where you get a sense of the old fishing and trade days. You can explore the Al Fahidhi Historical Neighborhood, which is an accurate representation of what the city once used to be. Walk through the historic souks while bargaining, bite into a delectable shawarma hot off the griddle and sail on the Dubai Creek as the traders back then used to. 

Guide To A 2020 Dubai Vacation – New Dubai –  Image Credits – pixy.org

New Dubai: 

While the old city is charming and a little more laid back, the newer parts of Dubai are what come to mind when someone says the name out loud. Sprawling high rise buildings and architectural marvels greet you as you make your way into the city. The expansive skyline of Dubai is something you must not miss seeing when on a ride down the Dubai Creek. Hop aboard a helicopter and witness the grandeur of the Jumeirah Group, responsible for some of Dubai’s most iconic establishments like the Burj Al Arab and the Palm Jumeirah. 

             Guide To A 2020 Dubai Vacation – Dubai Shopping –  Image Credits – wikimedia.org

Modern Dubai is also host to a shopping extravaganza: Most of Dubai is known for luxury merchandise, apparel and electronics at good value. The Dubai Shopping Festival is a great time to explore the new Dubai, as shoppers show off their wares in most major shops and malls. 

Guide To A 2020 Dubai Vacation – The Arabian Desert –  Image Credits – hospitalitynewsmag.com

The Arabian Desert:

Once you are done exploring the amalgamation of old and new, it’s time to head to the genesis of the middle east: The desert. There are a couple of deserts that are an hour’s drive from the main city and have good road access. The Rub’ al Khali is known to be the world’s largest sandy desert. The Al Badayer Desert is where you must go for all desert adventures. Al Qudra is a desert stretch where you can drive along on tarmac and still enjoy the sights of the desert. 

In our next post we’ll also be talking about things you can do around Dubai, since the options are endless depending on your budget and available time. From crashing around the Arabian desert in dune buggies to taking a tour of the middle east from the skies to spending a night at some of the most luxurious hotels in the world: Dubai has it all! 

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The post Guide To A 2020 Dubai Vacation: Sights appeared first on Star Vacations.

It’s no surprise that the first thing that pops up in everyone’s mind when we hear the word Dubai is a vision of exclusivity amidst expanses of sand and palm trees. Of wild camels running across the Arabian Desert. Dubai is the largest city in the middle east and the ultimate tourist destination come winter, for families, friends, couples and even solo travelers. 

At times planning a trip abroad can be daunting, especially to a country like Dubai where there are so many things to do and keeping track of all activities is a task in itself. We at Star are writing this guide for you to plan the ultimate Dubai vacation in 2020 and 2021. This guide includes a little history snippet as well as valuable information on what to do in Dubai, what to eat in Dubai, and where to stay! Read on to find out the best parts of a luxury trip to Dubai in 2020. 

This post will cover the essentials that tourists must know before entering Dubai in 2020 and beyond. In future posts we’ll also cover things to do, places to see and eat at on your 2020 Dubai vacation! 

Essential Information for your 2020 Dubai vacation: 

When planning a trip to Dubai, it always helps to know some of the local rules and customs along with essential tourist information. Here are some of those pointers now. 

• Visa Information For Dubai: Dubai tourist visas are valid for 30 days and must be obtained online. Dubai also has a visa-on-arrival option for Indians who also have a Green Card. Along with the application for your visa, you also need to submit a health declaration form and a quarantine undertaking form. There are several portals that help you do this, but we recommend you use the Emirates portal as Emirates has a direct tie up with the government.
• COVID information: It is mandatory for you to undertake the following measures before your 2020 Dubai vacation:

 1. Tourists must take two COVID‑19 PCR tests: one before departure with a validity of 96 hours from the date of the test, and a second test upon arrival in Dubai.

2. The certificate must be for a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test. Other test certificates including antibody tests and home testing kits are not accepted in Dubai.
3. You must bring an official, printed certificate in English or Arabic to check in – SMS and digital certificates are not accepted.

Other Things To Know Before Visiting Dubai: 

• Money matters: Dubai’s official currency is the Dirham and its lower denomination is known as the fill. Dirhams (or AED) are what most areas in Dubai commonly trade in, although some places will also accept US dollars. 1 AED = 20.22 Indian Rupees at the time of writing this article.
• Dressing up: Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and as such dress codes and conduct are not a massive problem as long as you respect public spaces, do not dress overly casual and follow rules in certain special areas. Religious centers, for instance, require that formal, simple clothing be worn and women use a headscarf while inside the sanctum. Public display of affection is also not allowed in Dubai.
• Languages: Arabic is the most widely spoken language in Dubai, but you will also hear plenty of mixed languages such as Tagalog, Persian, and even a little Hindi. English is also widely spoken and you shouldn’t have a problem navigating the streets and sights of Dubai. Locals will always be happy to help you!
• Safety: Dubai is generally considered safe for everyone visiting. As with any vacation, it is always recommended that you stick to the more populated parts of the city and always ask officials or locals for help. Some areas of Dubai like the souks may be a little unsafe after dark.
• Seasons: Winters are when you can truly experience the best of Dubai without being too hot or dehydrated while exploring this great city. November to April is a good window to plan your Dubai trip in.
• Transportation: Dubai is well connected by good roads throughout most of the urban spaces. Public transport is maintained in cities by their local municipalities and usually consist of air conditioned Volvo buses. Signboards to various destinations around Dubai can be seen in both Arabic and English. 

Are you looking to travel & explore the world ?

We’ve got special offers for travel around the world just for you. Plan the perfect vacation with us,  Please fill out the form, or Contact us  +91 9582896591,  We will get in touch with you to discuss the details.

The post The Best Of The Middle East: Essential Information For Your Dubai Vacation in 2020.  appeared first on Star Vacations.

A Dubai trip will be there on the bucket list of anyone who loves desert, desert safari, camel trekking and the popular limousine rides. Dubai is the tourist hotspot of the United States of Arab .The fast cars, towering skyscrapers, shopping malls and luxurious lifestyle has transformed the desert outpost to the destination to travel once in lifetime. Despite being modernized,luxury cities, there unfolds a history behind, and that history is evident through its historical monuments. Among those, here we are listing a few that might help in your next dubai trip.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (Bastakiya) Image Credits – Ankur Panchbudhe

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

This is also known as Al Bastakiya, one of the famous historical sights of Dubai, situated in the old town of Dubai. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is a quiet retreat from the buzzing traffic and skyscrapers of the city. It is a stroll along the narrow lanes , lined with historical buildings made of stones , wood and gypsum. This place is the trading and planning hub of Dubai. Now these historic buildings are turned into art galleries and museums. 

Sheikh Saeed al-Maktoum house built in 1896 Image Credits – wikimedia.org

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House was the home for Dubai rulers during the early 20th century and it is a museum. This historical monument speaks about the fascinating glimpse of the region’s history. The museum holds the artefacts, paintings, photographs  and many other historical antics describing the legendary charm of emirates

Al Ahmadiya School Image Credits – wikimedia.org

Al Ahmadiya School

Al Ahmadiya School is the first school of Dubai  established in 1912.  During the Nineties, it was renovated to become a museum, this takes the visitors to the past of Dubai’s education history. Tourists can observe the classroom layouts, curriculum thoughts and royal furnishing of the old times.

Al Maqtaa Tower Image Credits – wikimedia.org

Al Maqtaa Fort 

Al Maqtaa Fort is the not to miss place for someone who loves forts and castles. Al Maqtaa fort was built  to protect the kingdom from the invaders. This fort has a history of 200 years old which tells about the rich and royal culture, history of the Arab capital. It is a mesmerizing piece of art and architecture that has been a feather to Abu Dhabi’s crown from ages. 

Hatta Heritage Village Image Credits – wikimedia.org

Hatta Heritage Village

Hatta Heritage village is the mountain village recreated and renovated to make the Dubai trip lovers understand how ancient emirati villages were like. This village has a history of 3000 years, with two watchtowers , a fort and a mosque. The museum inside this village showcases the emirati dresses,  weapons, musical instruments, utensils made out of palm trees and beautiful handicrafts and artworks. The village is surrounded by hajar mountain range, date trees and vast expanses of barren land , the place altogether takes the visitors back in time. 

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Please fill out the form, or Contact us  +91 9582896591 We will get in touch with you to discuss the details.

The post Historical sights in Dubai appeared first on Star Vacations.