Whether you’re looking to glam it up in world-class restaurants and clubs; soak up the warm sun by the sea or get out of the city with a desert adventure; holidays in Dubai have the entire package. With some of the best tax-free bargains in the world on offer, and rich Middle Eastern cultural history also within reach; there’s enough to keep both savvy shoppers and culture vultures satisfied. Words can never do the extravagance of Dubai justice, so you’ll just have to check it out yourself.

Whether you’ve been spending the day spread out on a sandy beach in the sweltering sun, or rushed off your feet while bargain hunting in the souks or shopping malls, you’re sure to have worked up an appetite when night falls. This is when the oasis is buzzing with top class restaurants serving up exquisite dishes with a unique Dubai twist.  Situated on the 25^th floor of the Hyatt Regency hotel, Al Dawaar offers a view of the city that is almost unmatched. Fully rotating 360 degrees once every hour, this novel eatery offers stunning views of the Dubai skyline and is sure to make those at home jealous. Specialities on offer include the very Dubai-esque champagne brunch and an assortment of Middle Eastern and International dishes. Most people will be itching to catch a glimpse of the Burj Khalifa (recently named the World’s tallest building) when they visit Dubai, but many won’t even consider the fine-dining potential that lies within. With an extravagant range of dishes available and a separate caviar menu; don’t forget your wallet!

With a large expat community living here; Dubai may quickly become your family’s home away from home. In keeping with its theme of having to be seen to be believed, Dubai also offers a unique take on family entertainment. Situated in Dubai Mall, Kidzania is a place that your little ones won’t easily forget. Suitable for kids and young teens, the Kidzania ethos is that of a functioning city run by children. With over 80 role playing positions available, your kids will take on a number of real jobs and get paid for them in the local currency KidZos; which can be used in any of the franchises worldwide. At the very least, they’ll learn a bit about the booming Dubai economy outside; but who knows, they may even come away from it with their calling in life. In the same complex, Ski Dubai is an indoor skiing slope that’s also a favourite with families. It even has an interactive snow cavern and an ice bar serving hearty hot chocolate – only in Dubai!

Dubai’s artificial skyline is world famous for its sand islands built in the likeness of the world map, the towering Burj Khalifa and the chandelier-like luxury hotels. So what’s the best way to catch a view of this man-made paradise rooted in old world trappings? Why, jumping out of a plane of course. Thrill-seekers swear by the Dubai skydive as the only way to take in the full extent of the city’s extravagance and splendour. Taking off from Dubai Marina, jumpers tumble out of a Cessna plane (strapped to a qualified instructor of course) and hurtle toward the Palm Jumeirah drop zone for an adrenaline rush that will literally make you feel on top of the world. After the chute springs open and initial rush passes, there’s nothing left to do except take in the otherworldly sights and sprawling vistas as you tumble past. Don’t forget to look down.

Luxury accommodation is pretty much the norm in Dubai so expect the best when you holiday here. When it comes to choosing where to stay, it’s simply a case of deciding whether you want to splash out on a suite fit for royalty, or opt for something more modest with a number of lavish hotels on offer. The most luxe resorts are found along the Dubai marina; with a heady mixture of pampering, wining and dining and unbeatable nightlife all on display. Many of these premier resorts are situated alongside Jumeirah beach; a steady favourite with those seeking sun, sea and sand for its handy location, but for those looking for something more cost effective, Dubai is also home to an endless supply of golden sandy beaches that are free of charge. Seek out some of the lesser known stretches of beach; with a road system that’s hard to get your head around, many of the smaller Dubai beaches remain quiet and almost private!

In keeping with its extravagant nature, the vibrant nightlife in Dubai is also something to behold. Late night entertainment is something the city does well, and there are always plenty of big names and chart toppers from around the globe to keep you interested. If there’s one thing to be said about Dubai is that it only does one size; big! Don’t expect to find any local indie gig scene here, but if you’re in the mood for splashing out on some extravagant pop fare, massive artists like David Guetta and Katy Perry are always on the line up of upcoming gigs. Most bars and nightclubs are located in hotels in Dubai, with some regular favourites among partygoers including Cavalli Club, White Dubai, Cirque Le Soir and Blue Marlin Ibiza. Groups of women can even take advantage of the ladies nights that take place across the city on Tuesdays and Wednesdays; dishing out free drinks and food for female frolickers. Please also be aware that the legal drinking age in Dubai is 21, and a passport is acceptable ID for visitors.

Often thought of as a place that can be somewhat restrictive on couples, in fact Dubai offers an incredible array of couples-centric activities. Why not get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and escape into nature for a while? There’s nothing more romantic than a night alone under the stars, with locals, expats and visitors all camping freely throughout the desert. If you really want to get off the beaten track, you can even rent a Four-Wheel Drive vehicle which will really expand the route available. If that’s a bit too fast paced for your liking, you could alternatively rent a more camel to take in the surrounding landscapes. Watching the sun set over the desert is an unforgettable experience, and one that is sadly not thought of enough when people think of Dubai. If that hasn’t got your pulse racing enough, you can try your hand at some Gulf diving and explore sunken shipwrecks on the sea bed. As an added bonus, the water is also lovely and warm.

If it wasn’t for its man-made nature, sweltering heat and gorgeous sunshine, Dubai could easily be confused for any other modern city in the world. But if you look a little deeper and begin to scratch the surface, you’ll find proof that Middle Eastern culture is alive and well in the city. State of the art architecture blends effortlessly with pristine sandy beaches and the lavish Middle Eastern lifestyle, making Dubai a delight for the senses that truly has everything on offer. There’s far more to Dubai than topping up your tan and endless shopping sprees. For a dose of culture, be sure to check out the Deira souk markets, the beautiful Grand Mosque and Bastakia Quarter, which together make up Dubai’s ‘Old Town’. Dubai is an important global centre that’s creating its own history year on year; so there’s never been a better time to be a part of that history in the making.