Beyond the Dubai bling

Dubai.

Even the name itself draws up instant images of bling, flash and blitz! Everyone seems rich, looking fabulous, doing fancy things and just happy to be here.

And it is probably true for a segment of its residents.

From Sand to Skyline

We, as expats living here for over 2 decades, have seen another side of this city. We have seen a relatively small trading hub literally rise up like a mirage from the deserts with its dynamic skyline, its motto of growth and innovation and its cultural mosaic balancing diversity with tradition. Dubai has reimagined “Ambition” and “Resolve” for us.

Yet, what makes Dubai truly extraordinary is actually its energy - this is a place expats from over 200 nations work and live, bringing bits of their unique lifestyles to add to the cultural hotpot that is this cosmopolitan city. People here celebrate not just Eid but Christmas, Diwali, St. Patrick’s Day, Chinese New Year, Navroz and many others with equal fervor and enthusiasm. Citizens of warring nations work side by side here, peacefully and respectfully. People share cultural experiences and kids - Emirati or expat - are brought up in a truly global environment.

Despite this mix, Dubai is safe, clean and efficient, and getting increasingly inclusive offering something for all kinds of travellers.

Today, Dubai has a little something for everyone, literally.

The Dubai High Life

For those living an ultra-luxurious lifestyle, either as a resident or a traveller, Dubai can offer almost all that one might expect in say, Monaco - the playground of European royalty or in Lake Como - frequented by Hollywood’s elite and aristocracy around the world. You can live in palatial homes by the sea or escape deep into the desert, you can sail into the sunset on private yachts sipping champagne, you can have a private butler serve you a special dinner at one of the luxury desert resorts, under a tranquil and starlit sky, you can shop from the world’s leading brands, enjoy private dining experiences at Michelin-starred restaurants and more.

For Culture Lovers

For the curious culture seeker, Dubai is a haven with it’s unique blend of so many cultures, each contributing to the city’s ways without drowning the unique Emirati traditions and ways of life. For example, a visit to one of the city’s many lively Iftars during the holy month of Ramadan will demonstrate how people from various religious backgrounds celebrate the spirit of Ramadan with those fasting. Apart from the Islamic and Emirati religious festivals, which even the expat residents look forward to and participate in, this city hosts popular shopping festivals, food festivals, film festivals, music concerts from performers across the globe, art festivals and many other heritage events. For those seeking more than the malls and the skyscrapers, there are many musuems and local experiences that reflect the country’s Bedouin past, showcase its  pearl diving heritageand immersive desert culture and tell the story about the country’s   journey to its present.

Epic Nightlife

The young love this city probably the most. Dubai’s party scene is known to compete with the best anywhere in the world. The nightlife here is glam, curated and diverse, whilst also being shaped by local laws and cultural norms. It is opulence-first! Expect extravagant rooftop lounges with epic views, DJs flown in from Ibiza, premium beverages and a global mix of jet-setters, models, celebrities and business elites. Another important feature of the clubbing scene here is that it is regulated and hence, mostly safe. It is perfect for those who desire elevated experiences in a glamorous  desert dreamscape minus the chaos of excess.

Future meets Tradition

Basically, Dubai defies definition - seamlessly blending futuristic ambition with deep-rooted traditions and it is always re-inventing itself. Dubai is not just a destination - it is a juxtaposition - it is your glimpse into the future and yet it is rooted in tradition.

Come.

Visit.

Experience

To plan your experience with us, email info@thevintagepassport.com