The long-awaited day finally arrived that I would finally be Visiting The United Arab Emirates!
It was a chilly February afternoon when I embarked on my journey to the U.A.E. from New York City. Upon landing in Dubai (the cultural and financial center of the U.A.E.) a dusty haze had engulfed the evening sky, yet the air carried a distinct warmth and dryness. In the winter months, Dubai's sunshine is undeterred, offering pleasant temperatures hovering around 75°F, occasionally accompanied by brisk winds.
The drive from the airport to our hotel unveiled a grand spectacle: Towering skyscrapers emerged from vast construction zones while storefronts of the world's top designers and car manufacturers were everywhere you looked. If there was ever a city that has a look and feel of luxury, it is Dubai.
The United Arab Emirates has evolved into a sought-after destination, not merely for conferences and business endeavors but also as a premier beachside getaway. My journey through the U.A.E. began in the dazzling city of Dubai, where modernity and tradition collide in grandeur.
It's hard to believe that just a few decades ago, the vast majority of the buildings in Dubai were only a few stories high!
Dubai's transformation from a small fishing village to one of the worlds architectural wonders is truly incredible.
The Burj Khalifa (Dubai)
As I stepped further into this cosmopolitan oasis, the towering skyscrapers and architectural marvels left me in awe. But like most visitors, it was the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, that I couldn't wait to see. This seemingly impossible feat of engineering pierced the sky like a spear, like a silhouette symbol of human ingenuity and ambition. Its sleek, soaring form contrasted sharply against the sky, beckoning me to explore various angles and perspectives. As the sun sets, the building's intricate design cast shadows, that create a dynamic interplay of light and shadow that was a true joy to capture.
There is no bad time to view this magnificent structure. Day or night, it will leave you filled with amazement.
Visiting The United Arab Emirates: The Hotel Scene
I guess it shouldn't be surprising that the city that has the world's largest shopping mall, every top designer's boutique and the world's tallest building would also be home to one the world's finest collections of ultra-luxurious hotels. They've set a high bar here and the bar seems to be getting higher.
Fun Idea: A few of the world's most expensive and opulent hotels are here and if you don't stay in any of them, it's fun to check them out via a drink at the bar or a spa visit so you have access to parts of the hotel. I do this sometimes so I have access to a prime location for taking a photo i.e. a rooftop bar.
Our home for the first half of our stay was at the opulent and palatial Jumeriah Al Qasr Hotel before moving on to the cosmopolitan glamour of the Waldorf Astoria on the man-made island of Palm Jumeriah (you know, the island that's shaped like a palm tree). These two hotels couldn't have been more different aesthetically, but both provided a luxury experience with outstanding customer service and amenities.
Above: Wooden pier leading to Jumeirah Al Qasr Hotel, Dubai
Below: A few different vantage points of the gorgeous Jumeriah Al Qasr Hotel.
Designed in the style of a Sheikh’s summer residence, Jumeirah Al Qasr embodies palatial luxury inspired by 1,001 Arabian Nights. The architecture and interiors pay homage to opulent and modern Arabic design, creating an enchanting atmosphere. I loved the vibe!!
The view of the Burj Al Arab from the pier of the Jumeriah Al Qasr Hotel. Undoubtedly one of Dubai's most iconic landmarks and a top tourist attraction, the Burj Al Arab is celebrated for its prestigious 'seven-star status'.
Atlantis The Royal Hotel:
If bling’s your thing, Atlantis The Royal is for you. My wife had lunch/shopped here a couple times and raved about the overall experience the hotel staff provided. It’s big, it’s bold, and brands itself “the most ultra-luxury experiential resort in the world.”
Dubai Marina
The sweeping promenade was immaculately landscaped, with neatly trimmed hedges and palm trees lining the path. Giant skyscrapers and residential towers loomed up on one side, while the other opened up to the stunning manmade marina. Hundreds of sleek yachts and boats were moored along the winding waterways, bobbing gently in the small waves. The architecture was incredibly avant-garde and striking, from the iconic twisting Cayan Tower to buildings that resembled shimmering waves or sailed ships frozen in time.
We hired a boat company to take us around the beautiful Persian Gulf /Palm Jumeriah waters which provided amazing and unique views of the Dubai skyline!
Old Dubai
The winding alleys of Old Dubai were like stepping back in time. The vibrant colors, intricate architectural details and bustling markets offered a wealth of photographic opportunities.
Dubai's Old Town dates back to the 19th century when it was a bustling port town and trading center. The area was home to many wealthy merchants who built traditional houses made of coral and gypsum. Today, many of these historic buildings have been restored and turned into museums, art galleries, and cultural centers. Dubai's Old Town is also home to several traditional souks or markets, including the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Textile Souk. These souks offer a glimpse into traditional Arabian trading and are great places to shop for souvenirs and local goods!
Dubai Desert Dunes
Venturing into the vast desert dunes of Dubai was an otherworldly experience for me. The undulating curves of the golden sand, sculpted by the wind, created a mesmerizing canvas that shifted with the changing light. I found myself drawn to capturing the abstract patterns and textures, as well as the dramatic silhouettes cast by the wildlife and towering dunes at sunset. The vastness of the desert landscape instilled a sense of humility and appreciation for the raw beauty of nature.
I would recommend contacting Platinum Heritage Desert Safari for an amazing Dubai Desert Experience. They'll drive you through the desert in vintage Land Rover's while you take in the unique desert ecosystem. You'll discover the rich culture and traditions of Dubai’s heritage with live demonstrations of Arabic coffee and bread making, henna painting, camel rides, and traditional performances AND feast on a 4-course dinner!! It's an incredible experience.
The Arabian Oryx (above) with their distinct straight horns provided the perfect silhouette as the desert sun was setting.
The Emirates Palace Hotel (Abu Dhabi)
The Emirates Palace Hotel, situated at the terminus of Corniche Road, is a true marvel resembling a palace. I suggest visiting in the late afternoon to witness its splendor illuminated by the golden light. Even without booking a room, you can leisurely wander through its gardens and interior lounges.
Although the entrance is guarded, simply mentioning that you're stopping by for a drink at one of the hotel bars should grant you access. We had Afternoon Tea in the Palace and then wandered around a bit before heading out. The facade boasts grandeur with its distinctly Oriental architecture, transporting visitors to the enchanting realm of the Arabian Nights. Adorned with fountains, waterfalls, and illuminated jets of water, the ambiance becomes truly magical after dusk.
⇒ Fun fact: you can see the Emirates Palace in the film Fast and Furious 7
After a long day of walking around the beautiful sites of Abu Dhabi, High Tea at the Emirates Hotel was a perfect (and fancy!) way to relax.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Abu Dhabi)
Another incredibly picturesque destination, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque is a magnet for visitors. It holds the distinction of being the largest in the country and the ninth largest globally, making it the most renowned architectural gem in the city. No expense was spared in its construction, boasting a roof supported by 1000 columns, adorned with four minarets soaring 107 meters high, and crowned with an astonishing 82 domes!
Unlike most mosques in Abu Dhabi that are off-limits to non-Muslims, this one is a notable exception, welcoming all to explore its grandeur. I highly recommend visiting, especially in the late afternoon when the light casts a mesmerizing glow, enhancing the fusion of tradition and modernity embodied in this remarkable place.
From the Observation Deck at 300 in Tower 2 of the Etihad Towers, one can enjoy a breathtaking view of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Qasr Al Watan.
The pristine white marble and intricate mosaics demanded a respectful approach, and I found myself drawn to capturing the serene beauty of the courtyards and the ethereal play of light filtering through the arches and domes. The mosque's sheer size and symmetry presented a challenge to capture its majesty in a single frame, but it was a challenge I embraced with passion!
The location exudes grandeur, reminiscent of a mosque or perhaps a palace from the Arabian Nights, adorned with lavish decorations, including its majestic domes and cupolas.
Qasr Al Watan
Qasr Al Watan is a magnificent palace that showcases Emirati culture and tradition. It features grand halls, majestic domes, and meticulously landscaped gardens. In the magnificent Great Hall of Qasr Al Watan, visitors are greeted with a beautiful array of colors that help to tell the profound story of Emirati identity. The serene blue color evokes the tranquil waters of the Arabian Gulf, while the pristine white symbolizes purity, and the warm yellow hues reflect the golden sands of the desert. A visit to Qasr Al Watan is a captivating journey that is sure to leave a lasting impression.
The Great Hall boasts of the largest dome in the country with a height of seven stories.
The trio of chandeliers, the largest weighs around 11 tons. Casting a vibrant spectrum of light, they mesmerize with their Swarovski crystals adorning the structure, which itself is sheathed in 40 kilograms of galvanized 24-carat gold. Intricate plant motifs, delicately inlaid with mother-of-pearl, form captivating arabesques throughout the space.
The Qasr Al Watan Library showcases a vast array of knowledge resources in science and the arts accumulated over 35 years within the UAE.
The sculpture, titled "The Power of Words," is the creation of Emirati artist Mattar Bin Lahej. Its intricately intertwined inscription draws inspiration from the words of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the esteemed founding father of the UAE.
The Great Hall's richly decorated walls and ceiling.
The symmetry of the hanging lights at the Presidential Palace
Etihad Towers
The Etihad Towers are an impressive architectural masterpiece located along the Abu Dhabi Corniche. They offer an exceptional destination where both residents and travelers can enjoy a luxurious lifestyle, work, rest, shop, and dine while enjoying beautiful panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Gulf.
This complex comprises of five towers, with three dedicated to residential use, one for business, and the stunning 280-meter-tall Conrad at Etihad Towers Hotel. It sets the bar for opulence, and it's a must-visit destination in Abu Dhabi.
On the 74th floor of Tower 2, you will find the Observation Deck at 300, which offers unparalleled views of the city. If you're a luxury shopper, then the Avenue at Etihad Towers is the place to be. It boasts an array of the world's most exclusive boutique stores, some even featuring private VIP shopping rooms.
Australian firm DBI designed these five towers, with the tallest one reaching 1000 feet. Each of the towers has a unique design that symbolizes elements of falconry, sabers, and the billowing sails of boats, adding a cultural depth to their architectural splendor.
Final Thoughts
Each location in Dubai and Abu Dhabi offered a unique perspective and a wealth of photographic opportunities. I was constantly inspired by the juxtaposition of ancient traditions and modern marvels, the vibrant colors and textures, and the ever-changing play of light I found in these captivating landscapes. I highly recommend a visit to these two magical cities!
