The Strange Culture of Malls in Dubai
In a city that does everything in a big way, it makes sense that the malls in Dubai are also big. But there is more to Dubai mall culture than just shopping.
UAE
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a confederation of states on the Arabian Peninsula bordering the Persian Gulf. The country is wealthy because of its oil claims (particularly Abu Dhabi), but also because the states are international centers of commerce. The gulf airlines (Emirates and Etihad) are among the best (and busiest) in the world. The country is at the center of the 21st century.
But this country is more than a business center. The dessert offers opportunities for 4×4 driving, sand boarding, and even riding camels. There are beaches on the Persian Gulf and plentiful opportunities to enjoy water sports. But the UAE is most known for its institutions that have reached legendary status: the Ski Dubai ski park, the man made islands of the Palm Dubai, the tallest skyscraper in the world, the largest mosque in the world, and the most outrageous gold and gem market. The UAE is unlike any other country in the world.
Shopping in the Dubai Gold Souk
Dubai has a reputation as a modern, cosmopolitan city. In Dubai, bigger is better: world’s tallest building, world’s largest mall, etc. However, in Bur Dubai and along the banks of the Dubai Creek, you hear the echoes of the old Dubai. In the heart of this area, we encountered the Dubai Gold Souk and knew we’d stumbled on some something truly special.
The Mwasalat Buses: Tips for Getting the Dubai to Muscat Bus
The northern coast of the Arabian Peninsula is populated by the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the nation of Oman. Oman was largely isolated form the world until the 1970s, so it still retains much of the charm that other countries in the region lack. Travelers who come to Dubai are often looking for a more authentic travel experience, which Muscat provides. Here is our ultimate guide to the Mwasalat Dubai to Muscat bus.