A Local’s Guide to Dubai

Often called the City of Gold, Dubai has carved its place in the vast desert as a glittering tribute to all that money can buy. Why not discover for yourself what all the fuss is about in this city of superlatives? Ride the world’s longest elevator to the top of the world’s tallest building, shop in the world’s largest mall, ski the world’s first indoor black-diamond run or lounge on a white sand beach on the world’s largest artificial island. With Oceania Cruises, you can also pair some of those over-the-top experiences with encounters that tap into the local rhythms – Dubai is a city that’s incredibly conducive to dissolving cultural barriers, inviting visitors to connect with its diverse and open society. Our guide to Dubai below shares some favorite locals’ picks for shopping, dining and exploring.

DINE
Seven Sands
The Beach, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
With nearly 10,000 international options available according to local Dubai food bloggers, food in Dubai means a dizzying array of choices. Opting for a venue that serves Emirati cuisine helps narrow things slightly – until recent years, it was generally thought of as home-cooked comfort food. Seven Sands is a sophisticated spot at Jumeirah Beach Residence, enhanced with arabesque lamps, smart geometric patterns and airy beachside touches, that takes classic Emirati dishes to a fine dining level. Opt for traditional fare like slow-cooked chicken fouga or seafood-centric jisheed or combine lighter selections like mezze and salad for a delicious local lunch.

SHOP
Meena Bazaar
Near Khalid Bin Waleed Street, Bur Dubai
Since shopping in Dubai is embedded in the local culture, you’ll find no shortage of options from open-air souks to an enormous 1,200-store mall to incredible vintage boutiques. And while locals don’t shop at the world’s largest and most visited shopping mall – Dubai Mall – it’s well worth visiting if you’re at all inclined. For a more low-key experience in tune with the local scene, head to Meena Bazaar. Not only is it the oldest shopping district in Dubai, but the streets are an atmospheric labyrinth lined with small shops offering everything from exotic fabrics and textiles to jewelry, spices and handicrafts. There are also several popular Indian restaurants and cafés in case you need a break amid all the shopping.

EXPLORE
Bedouin Desert Safari
The perfect Dubai day trip, a desert safari is one of the best ways to experience Emirati culture – not to mention you’ll be living an experience that you’ll remember forever. Get a glimpse of life as a Bedouin nomad on the Desert Dune Drive Safari. You’ll be treated to a thrilling drive over towering sand dunes in a 4x4 vehicle that treats you to spectacular panoramic views of the desert. After an hour or so, you’ll stop for a break at a comfortable Bedouin-style campsite where Arabic coffee and assortment of dates and other light snacks will be waiting. Also enjoy the opportunity to ride one of the resident camels, a classic Bedouin experience.

Curiosity piqued? Explore our Dubai cruises and other Sirena Exotic Collection voyages now.