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Sightseeing


Sightseeing

The city of Dubai hugs its namesake creek, dividing sightseeing into two halves. Dubai Creek itself is a main attraction with plenty of opportunities to get out on the water and there are good views of the city from many points along the creek. From the water, both sides of Dubai come into view, with gleaming skyscrapers dotting the skyline, but there is also the traditional bustle of the old trading dhows that plow their way up and down the creek as they did a century ago. Another good way to get an idea of the layout of the city is from the observation deck of the Dubai World Trade Centre; rising 39 floors above the city, it offers stunning views of the city. The tower's viewing deck is a favourite of photographers, but can only be visited as part of a guided tour. The Deira side of Dubai Creek is currently in the midst of a major redevelopment, which includes a waterfront promenade. Already on the Bur Dubai side, between Maktoum and Garhoud bridges, the Creekside Park provides a choice of gentle walks and landscaped gardens. At the inland end of the creek is a large, shallow lagoon, which has been spared from developers and preserved as a wildlife sanctuary. It is a haven for migrating shore birds with around 27,000 birds spotted during autumn migration, including Greater Flamingos, who have now started to make the creek their home. Away from the city centre is Jumeira Beach, with its string of luxury hotels. Further afield still Dubai offers sweeping deserts, where visitors can take a four-wheel drive tour, and the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf, which are a Mecca for watersports enthusiasts.

Tourist Information

Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DTCM) Welcome Bureau

Beni Yas Square, Deira

Tel: (04) 228 5000. Fax: (04) 228 0011.

Web site: www.dubaitourism.co.ae

Opening hours: Daily 0700-1400 and 1600-2300.

The DTCM has two other Welcome Bureaux located at the airport and 40km (25 miles) out of town on the Sheik Zayed Road to Abu Dhabi.




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SIGHTSEEING
Sightseeing
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