Tag: Dubai

Dubai is known for its grandeur. Right from its classic structures and avant-garde architectural marvels to its awe-inspiring events, nothing in Dubai is done on a small scale. One such highlight that the city offers every year is the Dubai Shopping Festival or DSF. The festival runs for almost a month (during December-January) and is one of the best times to visit the city. Along with the numerous shopping opportunities, you can also attend music concerts, live performances and many such interesting events during DSF.

History of Dubai Shopping Festival

The first Dubai Shopping Festival was held in 1996. With the intention of promoting tourism in Dubai, the festival was started by the Ruler of Dubai and the Vice President of UAE, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. It earned massive recognition in its debut version itself, as over 1.6 million people attended this festival. From then on, the DSF has grown bigger and better with so many new attractions, events and activities every year. While the entire city participates in this shopping festival, Global Village is considered to be the centre of the whole event. Global Village was started in 1997 (second year of the festival) on the banks of Dubai Creek, where people were able to visit pavilions of different countries and enjoy their cultural activities, food, handicrafts, souvenirs, etc. The Dubai Shopping Festival has come a long way and is one of the much awaited events in Dubai. With this note, let us get to know more about the top things to do in Dubai during DSF.

Best Things to do in Dubai during DSF

Shopping

Shopping is undoubtedly the best thing to do in Dubai during the shopping festival. The main reason that DSF attracts so many people from around the world is that you get to enjoy some amazing deals and discounts on all sorts of products. Be it clothes, accessories, jewellery, electronics or home décor, everything comes with a huge discount, sometimes around 75%. The deals and the shopping festival are not limited to a particular spot or mall. In fact, almost all the malls and stores in the city offer great deals during this time of the year. If you are in Dubai during the beginning of the shopping festival, you may also be able to enjoy the 12-hour sale on the first day, where malls and stores offer a 90% off on selected items.

Here are some of the best places to shop from during the DSF:

Mall of the Emirates
Dubai Outlet Mall
The Dubai Mall
Boxpark
Global Village
Dubai Gold Souk
Dubai Festival City
Ibn Battuta Mall

Witness the Fireworks

Fireworks at global village, Dubai shopping festival — Fireworks at Global village

Dubai does not do anything half-heartedly, and the fireworks display during DSF is proof enough for the same. Apart from the grand fireworks on the opening (somewhere during the last week of December) and closing of the DSF (late January or early February), you would be able to see some fabulous fireworks every weekend. A few of the best places to catch remarkable fireworks are Global Village, JBR Beach and Dubai Creek. The fireworks at the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah on New Year’s Eve are also something you should not miss.

Attend Live Concerts and Performances

The DSF is not just all about shopping but a grand carnival of all things good in life. During the festival, Dubai hosts several music concerts and live performances by world-renowned artists. These programs are held in several areas of the city throughout the month. You would also be able to witness street performances, juggler acts and other such interesting events during the shopping festival. As every year sees performances by different venues, you should check the official DSF website to know the exact details. You’ll find special shows, events and activities for children as well.

Market OTB

If you are bored of shopping at the malls of Dubai, Market Out-of-the-Box or Market OTB is something you would enjoy whole-heartedly. Held at the Burj Park in Downtown Dubai, Market OTB has been a constant at the DSF in the last few years. This unusual market showcases the talent of both local and international brands and artists. You can buy everything from unique and bespoke clothes to accessories and at the same time enjoy artworks, music and dance shows, stage performances, pop-up cinema, etc. Another of its highlights is food trucks offering a variety of delicious food.

Timings: 4 PM to 11 PM (Sunday to Thursday) and 10 AM to 12 AM (Friday and Saturday)

Participate in Raffle Draws

While the DSF is a place to spend your money, you can also get some money back if you are lucky. Participate in the numerous Raffle deals and win anywhere around AED 150,000 to AED 500,000 during the shopping festival. There is also the Nissan Raffle draw where you get the chance to win some luxurious Nissan cars. To participate in these Raffle draws, all you have to do is to buy a ticket worth AED 200 from places like the Dubai Gold Souk, Metro Stations, Global Village, ENOC/EPPCO outlets, etc. Sometimes, you may also be able to win a raffle ticket when you shop at some of the selected stores.

Checkout the DSF Carnival

Another weekend attraction at the DSF is the colourful carnival that happens at Al Seef Street. Every year, the carnival adapts the theme of the shopping festival. You get to see here numerous performers from different nationalities, unicyclists, musicians, stilt walkers, jugglers, acrobats, marching bands and clowns showing off their talent and skills. The carnival is lively, loud and extremely fun.

Best Things to do in Dubai apart from Shopping

When you are not shopping and enjoying the numerous attractions of the DSF, you can be a regular tourist and visit the famous Dubai landmarks. We bring to you few of the best things to do in Dubai.

Visit Burj Khalifa

Burj Al Khalifa — The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower at a height of 828 metres (2,717 feet), stands in Dubai March 5, 2012. REUTERS/Mohammed Salem (UNITED ARAB EMIRATES – Tags: SOCIETY CITYSPACE) – RTR2YV3I

Get to the observation deck on the tallest building on earth, the Burj Khalifa, to see a panoramic view of the city. Be it the 124^th floor or the 148^th floor, the view from the top is incredible.

Timings: 8:30 AM to 11 PM

How to Reach: Get down at the Dubai Mall Metro Station and walk to the mall. The entrance to Burj Khalifa is on the ground floor of the mall.

Go on a Desert Safari

Enjoy an evening in the middle of the desert with some adventurous activities like dune bashing, camel riding and sand boarding. You would also get to enjoy live dance performances and a delicious BBQ dinner.

Timings: 3:30 PM to 9:30 PM

How to Reach: The desert safari tours also include transportation to and from your hotel or residence.

Wander around the Dubai Aquarium

Right inside the Dubai Mall is the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, which is home to an amazing number of marine animals. The aquarium also offers some unique experiences and tours including glass -bottom boat tour, shark diving, cage diving, scuba diving, etc.

Timings: 10 AM to 12 AM

How to Reach: Dubai Aquarium is located within Dubai Mall.

Stroll along Garden Glow

Be fascinated with the unique figurines and sculptures lit by 10 million energy -saving bulbs at Garden Glow. The Ice Park and Dinosaur Park are the main attractions here.

Timings: 4 PM to 12 AM (closed during summer months)

How to Reach: It would be best to take a cab to Garden Glow. The nearest metro station is Al Jafiliya Metro Station.

Have Fun at Ski Dubai

Try your hand at skiing at the largest indoor ski park in the world, Ski Dubai. Located in the Mall of Emirates, Ski Dubai also has a Snow Park where you can indulge in snow rides and activities.

Timings: 10 AM to 11 PM (Saturday to Wednesday) and 10 AM to 12 AM (Thursday and Friday)

How to Reach: Get down at the Mall of the Emirates metro station and walk to the mall through the walkway connecting the station to the mall.

Enjoy a Relaxed Dhow Cruise Dinner

Head over to Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina for a relaxing dinner on the luxurious dhow cruise. Along with a scrumptious buffet dinner, you also get to enjoy the views and a great Tanoura dance performance.

Timings: 8 PM to 10 PM (approximately)

How to Reach: The travel company usually arranges transportation to and from the dhow cruise for the guests.

Spend a Day at Aquaventure

Located on Palm Jumeirah, the Aquaventure Water Park is a part of Hotel Atlantis. It is one of the largest water parks in the UAE and has rides and slides that would satisfy both the thrill seekers and kids. The water park also has an aquarium as well as a beach.

Timings: 10 AM to sunset

How to Reach: Take a monorail or a cab to Palm Jumeirah from the Mall of the Emirates metro station.

Check out the Dubai Museum

History lovers would get to spend an interesting hour knowing about the past of Dubai at the Dubai Museum. Located inside the Al Fahidi Fort, the Dubai Museum has an interesting set of exhibits about the Emiratis and their lifestyle during the yesteryears.

Timings: 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM (Saturday to Thursday) and 2:30 PM to 8:30 PM (Friday)

How to Reach: You can take a metro to Burjuman Metro Station and walk to the museum, which is 1.5 km away. You can also take a cab from the station to the museum.

Enjoy Afternoon Tea at Burj Al Arab

Visit the only seven-star in the world, the Burj Al Arab, to devour their famous afternoon tea. While the view from the Sky View Bar is great, the menu consisting of varieties of tea and coffee, scones, cakes and pastries is even better.

Timings: 3 PM (window seating) and 3:15 PM (non-window seating)

How to Reach: Get down at Mall of the Emirates metro station and take a cab to the Burj Al Arab.

Have a Thrilling Day at IMG Worlds of Adventure

IMG Worlds of Adventure is the largest indoor theme park in the world and has zones, rides and attractions based on themes of Marvel Comics and Cartoon Network.

Timings: 11 AM to 8 PM (Sunday to Wednesday) and 11 AM to 10 PM (Thursday and Friday)

How to Reach: You can get to Mall of the Emirates metro station and take a cab to the indoor theme park. It would take 30 minutes to reach the park from the metro station.

Tips for Travellers

Before you plan your DSF holiday, do not forget to get your Dubai visa. It takes 2-3 days to get your Dubai e-visa.
Download the DSF app that would give you information about the deals, discounts, offers, activities and performances happening around the city.
Start your shopping early in the morning to avoid crowds. Also, attend the DSF during the early days as stocks and sizes are likely to diminish by the end of the festival.
To avoid the waiting lines outside trail rooms, wear layers of clothes so that you can try out different outfits without visiting the trail room.
Always explore a bit before making a purchase, especially when it comes to electronic gadgets and furniture. Different stores offer different deals and discounts, and by exploring you can pick the best.
Research well and make a list of what you want to buy for a smooth and hassle-free shopping experience.

Conclusion

Dubai Shopping Festival is the best time to visit Dubai as so much happens in and around the city during this time of the year. It is one of the most exciting festivals; one that you should attend at least once in your lifetime.

7 Most Romantic Hotels in Dubai for Couples

March 20, 2019

Kash Pals

Isn’t love the most beautiful feeling to ever be? Don’t you think that love is something that you should celebrate?

If you have found the love of your life you should never hold back from cherishing that love and your relationship. You can always make some time out of your work life to spend quality time with your better half.

You can do so many things such as a vacation trip, stay at a romantic hotel, dinner at a romantic restaurant or can do all of these together. If you have made up your mind to surprise your beloved with a trip there is one destination that is perfect for you which is Dubai.

At Dubai, you will find everything that you need for your romantic getaway. Well, you might be familiar with various romantic places in Dubai already but do you know about the romantic hotels in Dubai?

Here are 7 Most Romantic hotels in Dubai to make a pick from:

Jumeirah Al Naseem

There are numerous places in Dubai where you can stay but nothing can beat the beauty of Jumeirah Al Naseem. The facilities and services that you can avail at this place will only make your trip even more worth remembering. There are beautifully landscaped gardens and stunning places to dine.

Jumeirah Al Naseem, romantic Dubai — **Jumeirah Al Naseem**

You can choose your room from different suites such as royal suite, ocean terrace suite and more. There is a private beach where you to sit and relax with your lover. Where you can just sit and stare at the view from your suite in the evening you can enjoy some thrilling water sports during day time at the hotel’s water sports centre.

La Ville Hotel and Suites

La Ville hotel is a 5-star boutique hotel which will give you an experience like never before. The amazing decors and architecture plans used to build this hotel is enough to set your mood for the holidays. There is a private spa for the customers where you can get rid of fatigue to be refreshed to explore different sites.

La Ville Hotel and Suites, romantic Dubai — **La Ville Hotel and Suites**

Just like you, there are many other couples preparing for a romantic outing so getting all your bookings done beforehand is always better. You can do it while planning it in your home through online booking sites one such as Rehlat Airways and not just hotels even your flights get full during seasons. Using an online site will make your visit tension free plus you get to choose the flights and hotels according to you like best hotels for unmarried couples in Dubai.

Atlantis – The Palm

Just the fact that this hotel is on one of the largest man-made islands in the world make Atlantis- the Palm a golden choice. The charm of the place comes from the astounding underwater suites which are just beyond comparison.

Atlantis-palm Credit - Telegraph
romantic Dubai — Atlantis-palm Credit – Telegraph

Forget about the city couples have a lot to do and see in this Island only like shopping, dolphin swims, aquarium dives, and even helicopter tours. Since it is a very popular place for couples to hang out the aura around the Palm is already romantic.

The Palace at One & Only Royal Mirage

Are you looking forward to that one special romantic dinner in Dubai? Then you should plan your stay at The Palace. The hotel by One & Only Resorts is the definition of incredible starting from its royal suites, pleasing views to its scrumptious cuisines.

The Palace Pool Bar Esplanade - Credit Newsroom Kerzner, romantic Dubai — The Palace Pool Bar Esplanade – Credit Newsroom Kerzner

At the Palace, you can have the ultimate dining experience with different dishes at 4 different restaurants. Along with this, there are bar and lounges such as The Jetty Lounge, The rooftop terrace & sports Lounge and you can chill at the luxurious seafront at Drift Beach.

Al Maha Desert Resort

If you are in Dubai and haven’t been to the deserts then your trip isn’t complete and if your beloved find deserts fascinating you can book a room at the Al Maha Desert resort which is surrounded by dunes and enchant them with its glorious history.

Al Maha Desert Credit - Youtube, romantic Dubai — Al Maha Desert Credit – Youtube

Stay at Al Maha will provide you a lovely peaceful atmosphere with activities like camel ride, desert drivers, wildlife safari, and Ghaf tree walk. After relishing in the sand you can end your day here with a romantic dinner under the stars.

Raffles Dubai

No way can’t a hotel with interiors made with handmade ornaments be romantic. The Raffles is a well-known landmark of the Skyline over the city of Dubai. At Raffles, you can book a landmark suite, penthouse suite or a presidential suite. Your romantic holiday can have more than just a stay at Raffles. You can organize celebrations for your lover here be it their birthday or your anniversary.

Raffles, romantic Dubai — **Raffles Dubai**

When you are traveling from a faraway place you aren’t much aware of the choices. In such situations, online portals such as Flyin can be helpful as it will provide you with best hotels in Dubai where you can make adjustments as per you. You can also make your travel less troublesome with easy Flyin flight booking from this site only.

Anantara The Palm Dubai

The Anantara resort is an elegant place to spend holiday time with your loved one. Here you can book an apartment, an overwater Villa, or a beach pool villa rather than a room with an alluring view. Dining at Anantara includes delicious food items from across the globe at Palm Jumeirah restaurants and beautiful cafes and lounges.

Anantara The Palm, romantic Dubai — **Anantara The Palm Dubai**

You can mold your stay at the hotel as whatever way you want. You can sit by the beach relaxing or if you want you can go for some adventure water sports or can utilize the Spa services, a salon for both men and women, get a massage or take a steam bath.

Five Important Facts That You Should Know About Dubai.

March 6, 2019

Kash Pals

Round the world Travel 4 Comments

Dubai! This city has always fascinated me and I’d read up everything that was written about it. I’d read up on how the glitter of gold from the gold souqs can be seen from afar. I’d read up on how Dubai’s gastronomic excellence has given rise to an annual Food Festival. I’d read up on the country’s unique past and its overnight metamorphosis into a leading tourist destination.

To me, Dubai is all about fabulous manmade marvels, wealth, glamour, gold and food. Then there came the time when just reading up on Dubai was no longer enough. I just had to experience this amazing city for myself. So I gathered up my few pennies and pounds and flew there. I loved my trip. And I learned a lot of stuff I wish I’d known earlier. Here they are.

Dubai Isn’t All That Tolerant – Despite Appearances

Let’s put the bare facts out on the table. Dubai is an Islamic nation and therefore very conservative. Don’t be fooled by pictures of half-naked tourists. There are very clear dos and don’ts, as I learned to my expense.

No, you don’t need to purchase a burkini – your bikini or tiny shorts will do, but only at the beach.
When you’re at the mall or a similar public place, be sure to cover your shoulders decently.
Public Displays of Affection are a no-no, NO matter where you are. So hands off.
Don’t mouth off while in Dubai. Don’t drop the F-bomb, or any expletive for that matter, while in public. Hell, you could get a detention for a year or even be fined about 10,000 AED. Now that’s way too much to pay for cussing. Seriously. Be careful never to insult a public official, coz you’ll be paying up a lot more. Be careful not to use expletives when you’re online, either. While you’re at it, don’t mouth off about Islam or the ruling family.
Don’t touch someone’s Qur’an if you are not Muslim. Yes I know, you just wanted to feel that expensive leather. Just don’t.
Don’t make any rude gestures – keep your hands by your side, if you’re the digitally-voluble kind. A friend of mine was herded off to the police station because he made a rude gesture. He was let off with a warning, but he could have been imprisoned.

Don’t Visit Dubai During Ramadan

Ramadan is the holy month; no one eats or drinks anything, not even water, between dawn and dusk. And that goes for you too, tourist. You want to eat, sneak some snacks in advance into your hotel room and much noiselessly, please. I found a couple of dedicated restaurants, behind covered walls and partitions that served during the day. Don’t even chew gum in public during Ramadan. When in Rome and all that, you know…..

You Don’t Have To Be Wealthy To Enjoy Dubai

Yes, you can Dubai on a budget. I did. That’s one of the things to know before visiting Dubai. It’s like this – the city’s gearing up to host Expo 2020. Several mid-market hotel chains are coming up, totally millennial-friendly and all that. There’s the Hilton Garden Inn and Rove for examples. Also, Dubai hostels and Airbnb accommodations are quite good. I stayed at an apartment in Deira, rooming up with a couple more tourists. It was cool, fairly cheap and honestly, I spent more on food. Now I know better, of course. Next time I visit Dubai, I’ll stick to cheap eateries in Deira, especially the ones on Al Muraqqabat Road and Al Rigga Road.

There’s just one thing that really stumped me, in terms of cost – the attractions. But I found a way around that too. I just looked up Groupon for coupons and discounts, and hit pay dirt more than once. I stayed in Dubai for a month, so I made good use of The Entertainer App. Here’s something else – I didn’t enjoy Dubai any less because I avoided expensive attractions. I chose rather to traipse through Old Dubai, took abra cruises and window shopped. I explored Souq Madinat and the Global Village, and a host of other free attractions.

Dubai Isn’t Just All Glamour – There’s A Deep-Seated Culture Too!

From the outside, it looks as though Dubai was about the Burj al Arab, Burj Khalifa, the Palm Islands or the immense shopping malls. No. Dubai is so much more than that. An Arab friend showed me a rich culture, a beautiful blend of Arab, Islamic and Bedouin cultures. I was spellbound by the narrow cobbled streets and old homes built of black coral in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood – real black coral!

Tips To Sell Your Property In Dubai

October 24, 2018

Kash Pals

Lifestyle 5 Comments

If you’re searching to sell your property in Dubai, look no further than this guide. We round off the things you require to ensure a smooth process.

Here are few tips to selling your property In Dubai

PICK THE RIGHT AGENT FOR YOUR PROPERTY

In order to sell your property or Off Plan Projects In Dubai on the secondary market, you will require to enlist an agent. It is better to seek out an expert who has a superior understanding of the area that you live in. Luxhabitat’s niche lies in the high-end property situated in 12 areas of Dubai, including Al Barari, Arabian Ranches, Downtown Dubai, Emirates Hills as well as Palm Jumeirah.

Downtown Dubai property | by Virtual BCM-Bobb & Company Marketing — Downtown Dubai | by Virtual BCM-Bobb & Company Marketing

If you’re looking to vend your property, then do contact a specialist here. Together with Luxhabitat, we will then lay out a marketing strategy for your property as well as aid valuation with market reports. Having an expert in real estate will ensure you may close a finest possible sale. You should sign an agreement with your broker to market the property. It is called a Form A. In order to market your property, signing off on Form A is mandatory. This form also describes the commission paid to the agent to sell your property.

MAKE SURE YOU HAVE THE ESSENTIAL DOCUMENTS IN PLACE

You have to contain Passport with UAE Residence visa as well as Emirates ID (if applicable).

SETTLEMENT OF MORTGAGE PAYMENTS, IF APPLICABLE

If your property is mortgaged, you require to request a liability letter (typically valid for 15 days) from your bank. The right agent will guide you accordingly. Once that is done, you require to obtain a NOC from the developer. Each developer has different criteria for a NOC which typically includes advance payments of service charges amongst other expenses. Please offer the documents from the checklist while applying. The NOC costs between 500 and 5,000 dirhams as well as are issued within 24 hours to seven working days. Some developers might charge extra to expedite this procedure.

After the developer issues the NOC, if the seller has finance, you would proceed to a Dubai Land Department’s trustee office in order to block the property into the buyer’s name. The trustee office will hold the buyer’s payments as well as issue a ‘Restrain property certificate.’ In the case that the buyer is mortgaging the property, then the buyer’s bank will settle the mortgage for the seller. If the buyer is not obtaining a mortgage, then the seller’s mortgage is settled directly.

TRANSFER OWNERSHIP AT THE DLD

You, the seller, the agents involved as well as the mortgage consultant (if applicable) will then need to go to a Dubai Land Department trustee office to initiate the transfer. Take your original passport with you, along with the original title-deed, clearance letter as well as Emirates ID in order to have the new title-deed issued in the buyer’s name. At the point of transfer, you will concurrently receive the payment. The applicable transfer fees are salaried at this point to the Dubai Land Department.