Between the waters of the Persian Gulf and the sands of the Arabian desert, here is Dubai, the largest in the United Arab Emirates. For two centuries, Dubai was only a small trading port on the banks of the Khor Dubai. But in less than a generation, the city has become a destination that one would think out of the minds of science fiction authors. A place that challenges its extreme environment and redefines the very idea of ​​the city. on cities.


Despite appearances, the foundations of this sumptuous citadel are not built on sand but over thousands of years of Arab culture and tradition. Enter the Jumeirah Mosque, where non-Muslim visitors are invited to discover the beautiful interiors and participate in a lively question and answer session. Then take the direction of the Bastakiya district and visit the Center for Cultural Understanding of Sheikh Mohammed. You will discover local customs, Bedouin hospitality and Emirati gastronomy. Deepen local traditions by going shopping as the Arabs have done for centuries. Follow the scent of incense and plants to the city's spice market. Explore the hundreds of shops in the gold souk and find out why Dubai is nicknamed the "city of gold".

If you prefer the souks of the 21st century, head to the Dubai Mall and its 1,200 stores. Dubai Mall is also home to Kidzania, a miniature town with a radio station, a hospital and a fire station over which children rule. The biggest attraction of this shopping center is undoubtedly the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Take a walk in this aquatic world where more than 30,000 abyss creatures rub shoulders, including huge rays and sharks. After exploring the depths of the seas, get out and look up.

You will see rise in front of you the 800 meters from 
 centerpiece of Dubai burj Kalifa, the tallest structure ever built. This skyscraper, which is three times the size of the Eiffel Tower and twice that of the Empire State Building, is visible some 100 km around. Take the high-speed elevator to the viewing platform from the 124th floor, which offers an incomparable view of the city. Burj Kalifa has a special charm at night, when he appears behind the dancing water jets of the Dubai fountain. Across Dubai, you will come across daring projects, some of which will seem completely crazy to you.

Then discover other sea creatures at the Lost Chambers Aquarium. But if you really want to cool off, Nothing beats a ride to the Ski Dubai indoor winter sports resort. This station built in the desert has five ski slopes, including the first indoor Black Diamond track in the world. Ski Dubai even houses a penguin colony who go out to play several times a day. Once you have perfected your snow sliding technique, why not try it on the sand? Whether you stay there for a day or several nights, the Arabian desert is an essential experience for visitors.

Go on a camel ride, meet local wildlife or simply contemplate this endless stretch of sand.
 place is so quiet  hear your heart beat. It's here, just an hour from the tallest building in the world, that you will truly appreciate the miracle of Dubai. The city has indeed succeeded in becoming one of the most welcoming destinations in one of the least hospitable environments on the planet. From an immense void, an oasis has arisen, so sparkling that it almost eclipsed the sun.