Dubai
Dubai is often judged by its superlatives. The tallest, the biggest, the newest: a city shorthand that invites easy scepticism. Critics question its depth, its speed and even its authenticity. Yet such readings miss its quieter, more grounded aspects that reward anyone willing to look past its skyline.
At just 54 years old, the UAE is young by global standards. But it has developed at an extraordinary pace, forging a culture shaped by trade, hospitality and openness rather than nostalgia. Dubai’s identity is not rooted in antiquity but in exchange: of ideas, cuisines and design. Spend time in the city and you’ll find intimate courtyards in Al Fahidi, family-run cafés in Deira, artists’ studios in former warehouses and chefs working thoughtfully with locally sourced produce. It has one of the world’s most confident dining scenes, while its creative institutions increasingly reflect regional voices rather than imported spectacle.
Dubai rewards curiosity. It is a place where business lunches become long conversations, where beach clubs coexist alongside heritage districts and modernity is balanced by generosity. New waterfronts, revived creative districts and a maturing arts scene make the city even more compelling. This guide focuses on the essentials: refined hotels, standout restaurants, independent retail and cultural addresses worth crossing town for. Whether you’re here to seal a deal or to unwind by the Gulf, Dubai delivers with flair, warmth and a surprisingly superlative sense of place.
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This guide was published on 2 February 2026
