Dubai: Something for everyone

Dubai is not just about shopping. Be it art lovers or sports enthusiasts, there is something to do for everyone!

Contrary to popular opinion, a visit to Dubai is not just about  endless sales options, the occasional desert safari and a visit to the top of the Burj Khalifa.

There is a lot to do for everyone. My favourites remain the musicals and plays which are organised by English, Indian and Pakistani entertainers. Multicultural audiences draw in entertainers from all over the world, and Dubai is no exception.

The question is: which of these makes Dubai interesting for you?

Rocker:

Recently, Bryan Adams and Guns 'n' Roses rocked the UAE music scene. This was followed by a jazz festival that would regale any music lover’s appetite.

Culture Vulture:

The Emirates’ vibrant multicultural society also supports historical and architectural sites like museums and grand mosques.

Environment buffs:

Visit zoos, bird sanctuaries and Arabia’s most prominent wildlife reserve Sir Bani Yas Island. There are also date palm farms in Al Ain where a private visit may be arranged.

Art lover:

Art Dubai is an attraction for artists. The Emirates Palace regularly exhibits art work from the world’s best galleries. The literary scene is alive with an annual literature festival that draws in huge crowds. This year, I saw the premiere of The King’s Speech during the gala event of the Dubai International Film Festival.

Sport Enthusiast:

The Dubai horse racing carnival is at the Meydaan race course is another exciting prospect. It is another entry in the Dubai events calendar that draws large regional audiences culminating in the $10 million Dubai World Cup.

The country is fast becoming a popular destination for sports fans due to the following sporting events:

• Abu Dhabi Grand Prix at the Yas Marina circuit


• golf tournaments in Abu Dhabi and Dubai


• Dubai Open Tennis


• the Laureaus Sports awards


• cricket matches


• Gulfnews Toyata Fun drive (a car ride into the desert)

And if you will have none of this, there is always Ferrari World, the world's largest indoor theme park - which is fun for everyone.