Dubai is one of the world's most exciting new travel destinations. Lying on the blue waters of the southern Arabian Gulf and backed by the majestic desert, Dubai offers visitors year-round sunshine and five-star luxury plus the adventure of a unique Arabian experience.

Dubai- one of seven emirates that constitute the United Arab Emirates - is a place of fascinating contrasts, a distinctive blend of modern city and timeless desert, east and west, old and new. Known in the region as the "city of merchants", Dubai has, for generations, welcomed seafarers and traders to its shores. Today, its tradition of courtesy and hospitality lives on.

Dubai has something for everyone - from the holidaymaker seeking a relaxing break away from the clouds and crowds, to the active tourist looking for a new and exciting experience. The city has superb facilities for sports, shopping, dining and entertainment.

Dubai's diversity means that visitors can enjoy a whole range of different experiences. From the beautiful undulating desert sands to the bustling downtown areas - the vast unspoiled beaches and the mountains to the east - Dubai is a city of adventure, contrast, discovery and surprise.

Dubai Creek :

The creek, which runs through the heart of the city, has shaped the destiny of Dubai. Early settlers used it as a trading point and the city has expanded with the creek at its heart. Today, it is the focus for commerce - the waterfront is dominated by impressive, glass clad buildings and its waters are criss-crossed by two bridges and a tunnel. By contrast, the creek is still, in places lined by abras, the traditional wooden dhows - and trading with neighbouring countries in a style which has not changed in centuries.

The City :

Dubai's central business district is divided into two parts - Deira on the northern side and Bur Dubai to the south. Each has its share of fine mosques and busy souks, of public buildings, shopping malls, hotels, office towers, banks, hospitals, schools, apartments and villas. In Dubai, the world is encapsulated - restaurants and bars with diverse international themes - outstanding sports facilities including 3 international standard golf-courses - a superb tennis stadium and internationally renowned horse racing courses.

Cultures and ethnic diversity abound in a harmonious and safe atmosphere which is the envy of the world. There are parks and gardens, plus golden sands in abundance - and - by contrast - the drama of the desert. A visit to Dubai is nearly always accompanied by an adventure into the vast desert where the rolling sandscape is both a challenge and an opportunity to experience an extreme environment in the capable hands of professional drivers.

In and around Dubai :

Camel rides, camel races, gold souks, silver souks and fabrics from around the world. Barren mountains and remote villages - red sands, yellow sands, oasis and wadis - water-parks and wonderful architecture - Dubai is like no other city in the world - to visit Dubai is to experience both the traditional and the ultra modern - the sophisticated city and the rugged terrain of mountains and desert. A true adventure which attracts increasing numbers - both on business and in pursuit of a new and exciting holiday destination.

The desert is an opportunity to experience an adventure like no other - take a four wheel drive vehicle to spectacular desert terrain where the dunes reach 100 metres and the landscape is at once awesome and picturesque. Guests enjoy candle-lit suppers in traditional bedouin tents whilst being entertained by exotic belly-dancers. And no trip to the desert would be complete without a camel ride.

Water sports in Dubai are truly impressive. On the Jumeirah beach a coral reef has been constructed some 2 kilometres off-shore and diving is just part of a huge range of water based activities. Sailing, water-skiing and of course swimming are available at numerous locations. Variety is at the heart of the Dubai experience - whether its peace and quiet on secluded beaches - or adventure and challenge on a desert safari - has sufficient depth to satisfy even the most seasoned traveller.