How to make the most out of UAE, for business or leisure

If you are headed to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, for work or play, you’ll have some great opportunities to immerse yourself in new cultures, to unwind and even expand your mind.

Taking the time to look around the place you’re visiting not only helps you work or play more comfortably, but it helps you relax and de-stress too.

Yet when faced with an entirely new landscape, it can be difficult to know where to start.

As a frequent traveler to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, I recommend some ‘must-dos’ for your next business or leisure trip.

Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek is one of my favourite places on the planet. Though it’s only one small part of the emirate, the city is magnificent, with its enormous towers poking through the clouds.

The Creek is where it all began. You can still see wooden trading ships chugging in, offloading their goods from other Gulf regions and heading back out into open waters. These boats travel thousands of kilometres and are built by hand.

Visiting Dubai Creek gives you a taste of what Dubai was like 50 years ago and allows you to fully experience the diversity of the area.

My preferred way to enjoy the Creek is hiring myself a private Abra. These local boats are the most authentic way to experience this historical place.

Experience the culture

Can you really visit a foreign country without experiencing and learning about its culture?

If you want to appreciate the beauty of Middle Eastern architecture and art, I suggest visiting the Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi. 

Considered the hub of Dubai’s religious and cultural life is the Grand Mosque. Located in the historical district and built in traditional Islamic style, the Mosque is a must-see for its astounding architecture.

Discovering a bit about the local religion, culture and way of life can take your business trip from good to inspiring.

free, but you willonly access lobbies and exhibitions. The gardens, private beach (photo) and the rooms, yet beautiful and breathtaking, are reserved for hotel guests.

Dining out

Nothing brings people together like trying new food - and the food in Dubai is unlike anything else I have experienced in the world. 

Karachi Darbar is an excellent choice for a business trip, with a very high standard of service and quality that will impress any dinner guest.

I also recommend Wafi Gourmet for the best Lebanese cuisine in the city. Wafi Gourmet offers fine dining yet a relaxing and ambient atmosphere.

Feed Your Adrenaline

There are many exciting recreational activities in Dubai that will get your blood pumping and your heart racing. Home to the world’s longest urban zipline, is the XLINE DUBAI MARINA where you will enjoy spectacular sky views of the city.

Don’t feel like flying, but still want to see great views of Dubai? The world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, offers an experience aptly named At the Top. Stand on observation decks that give you views you can’t get anywhere else in the city.

My favourite opportunity for recreation in Dubai, however, is its water sports. I have spent many glorious afternoons at La Mer wakeboarding, jet-skiing and stand-up paddleboarding.