Holidays:

Dubai:

Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. It is rather like an independent city-state and is the most modern and progressive emirate in the UAE.

Golf Holidays I Palm Islands I Festival City I Dubailand I Dubai Marina I Future Developments

A relatively new tourist destination, Dubai has gained in popularity in recent years. It is essentially a desert city with superb infrastructure, liberal policies (by regional standards), and excellent tourist amenities.

Just 5 hrs from Europe and 3 hrs from most parts of the Middle East, the Near East, and the sub-continent of India, Dubai makes a great short break for shopping, partying, sunbathing, fine dining, sporting events, and even a few sinful pleasures. It is a city of superlatives: for the fastest, biggest, tallest, largest and highest, Dubai is the destination.

There are endless water-sport opportunities as Dubai has some of the whitest and sandiest beaches in the world. Ocean temperatures range from 22 degrees celcius in winter up to 35 celcius in summer, meaning you might as well forget a hotel and bathe in the ocean. Diving activities have been severely affected by offshore construction work for the Palms and The World; consequently, long boat trips are necessary to reach wreck sites. Alternatively, one can make the 90 minute road journey to the East coast Emirate of Fujairah or the Sharjah enclave, Khor Fakkan, for top class diving on coral reefs supporting extensive marine life.

Dubai has been called the "shopping capital of the Middle East." The city draws large numbers of shopping tourists from countries within the region and from as far as Eastern Europe, Africa and the Indian Subcontinent. Dubai is known for its souk districts. Traditionally, dhows from the Far East, China, Sri Lanka, and India would discharge their cargos and the goods would be bargained over in the souks adjacent to the docks. Dubai's most atmospheric shopping is to be found in the souks, located on either side of the creek, where bargaining is part of the buzz.

Modern shopping malls and boutiques are also found in the city. Dubai Duty Free at Dubai International Airport offers merchandise catering to the multinational passengers using Dubai International Airport.  While boutiques, some electronics shops, department stores and supermarkets may operate on a fixed-price basis, most other outlets consider friendly negotiation as a way of life.

Golf - it may be a desert, but a lot of money and water is spent on irrigating opulent golf courses. Alternatively, for a more local flavour, try sand golf!

Climate:

The city of Dubai is situated on a coastal strip bordered by desert and gets very hot. Its dry on the hottest days and humid during the cooler days in the summer. Cooler, more pleasant weather lasts from the end of September to the beginning of May (although note that pleasant is relative,) with daily temperatures from October to January and March to May still being in the lower 20s Celsius, but be prepared for cold night temperatures. In winter the temperature at night is usually from 10-16 Celsius.

Golf Holidays:

Emirates Golf Club sports two championship courses, a friendly yet testing 9 hole Par-3 course, the Emirates Golf Academy, numerous practice facilities and two driving ranges.

Arabian Ranches Golf Club
Par: 72
Length: 7,691 yards

A golf course set on the arid, dusty dunes of Dubai would have seemed like a mirage not so many years ago. Now, though, after a battle lasting centuries, man can finally claim to have conquered the desert as vibrant green blades of grass sprout up across the city.

At Arabian Ranches, players can live and enjoy a true desert golf experience. Ian Baker-Finch, the 1991 Open champion who designed the Ranches, has preserved the desert and carved 18 holes out of the natural landscape.

The Ranches has immaculately maintained fairways and large testing greens, but what sets it apart from its rivals in Dubai is that it has no water hazards or bunkers, just one long, twisting sand hazard – the desert itself. It has captured the essence of the desert better than any other course, but while golfers might be able to marvel at man’s triumph over the elements as they tread the fairways, few will ever be able to claim they have conquered the course.

Emirates Majlis
Par: 72
Length: 7185 yards

One of Eagle Golf Tours favourite golf experience’s the Majlis courses is host to the Dubai Desert Classic Tour event and is probably the most well known of Dubai’s ever growing number of Championship courses. The signature clubhouse at the Emirates Golf Club - modelled in the style of Bedouin tents - remains the most eye-catching in the region. By combining the natural rolling desert terrain with lush fairways, several lakes and huge greens the Majlis provides you with an immensely enjoyable yet challenging round of golf.

Emirates Wadi
Par: 72
Length: 7263 yards

The Wadi Course at Emirates Golf Club was redesigned by Nick Faldo in 2006 and now a true test of golf for the best of players. One of the main themes of ‘The Wadi by Faldo’ is dramatic bunkering. Another unique design aspect is the “wadi” (from the Arabic word valley) that meanders along the length of the course, adding extra character.

The indigenous Gaff trees are dotted alongside the fairways and in some cases on the fairways. Although the course is lengthy and requires strong play, there are also great rewards waiting for those who methodically think their way around, in true Faldo style!

Four Seasons Golf Club Dubai Festival City
Par: 72
Length: 7203 yards
Course designer: Robert Trent Jones Snr

Challenging course, modern design with wide fairways flanked by waste sands areas, water features and palm trees. The course, while located just 15 minutes from Dubai International Airport, retains a quiet oasis feel, with low rise buildings and neighbourhood nearby.

Golf at the Four Seasons Al Badia embraces an entire Four Seasons experience – with green fees incorporating bag-drop, use of luxury changing rooms, jacuzzi and sauna, in addition to use of the excellent dining options.

The clubhouse is an exciting, sleek, curved and light design with panoramic views of the course, with ultimate comfort and decor.

The Montgomerie
Par: 72
Length: 6150m

The Montgomerie combines the course traditions of Scottish links courses, rolling fairways, firm greens, with water features to create a unique test of golf in the Desert. Generous fairways allow for free hitting drives. Fourteen lakes and seventy two bunkers provide the opposition, in addition to the natural length and winds. The signature hole is the par three thirteenth, which boasts the largest single green in the world, its island green can be played from a 360 degree teeing ground giving the advantage of a totally different golf hole each time you play!

Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club
Par: 71
Length: 6857 yards

Situated in the heart of the city on the shores of the creek, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, which underwent a major redevelopment project in 2005, is a true golfers’ paradise.   The club's 18 hole, par 71 course rolls 6,857 undulating yards along well-groomed fairways lined with date and coconut palms, attractive water hazards and shrubbery that lend a distinctly tropical air.

Dubai's original golf academy offers a nine hole Par 3 course, which is perfect for beginners looking to learn the game of golf and for experienced players to practice their short game skills. 

In addition to this, there is a spacious new driving range and dedicated putting, chipping and bunker practice greens, with all facilities floodlit until 10pm.  The Golf Swing Analysis Centre has been upgraded, along with the Club fitting centre, Pro shop and Academy cafe, offering all the latest in golfing accessories, equipment and refreshments.

In addition to the Academy's practice facilities, Dubai Creek's four Golf Professionals are also available for teaching lessons and packages.

Park Hyatt Dubai - 5 Star

Location:

The resort hotel Park Hyatt Dubai is a luxury waterfront retreat adjacent to the world-famous Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club. This Dubai Hotel is situated just minutes away from the city centre, world-class shopping and prime business districts.  The hotel is a haven of tranquil elegance amidst the vibrant city of Dubai, and the newest addition to Dubai's luxury hotels.

Accommodation:

Park Room:
A spacious 52 square-metre room is a waterfront retreat featuring patio with marina views. Dramatic Moorish and Mediterranean design, muted pastels and natural light complement elegant interiors, including elegant bath with separate tub and walk-in shower, work desk with high-speed Internet and king bed with cotton linens and goose down duvet. Pampering extras include daily fruit and mineral water.

Amenities include: blacony, robes, hairdryer, minibar, cable/satellite TV, telephone with voicemail, data port, DVD player, high speed internet access, in-room safe, morning newspaper, separate work area, marble bath and individual air-conditioning.

Park King Deluxe:
A private terrace or balcony provides serene views of Dubai Creek from this spacious 52 square-metre room. Dramatic Mediterranean and Moorish decor in muted pastels complements elegant interiors, including work area, bath with oval tub and walk-in rain shower and king bed with cotton linens and plush down duvet. Enjoy soft robes, daily fruit and mineral water and high-speed Internet. Amenities are available in all room types.

Facilities:

• Amara Spa
• Luxury body treatments & massage
• 25 Metre swimming pool
• 24 Hour gymnasium
• 18 Hole championmship Dubai Creek Golf Course
• Nearby Dubai Creek Marina
• WiFi Internet in public areas
• Business services
• Meeting facilities
• Laundry service
• Limousione service

Dining:

• Traiteur (modern European cuisine)
• Cafe Arabesque
• The Thai Kitchen
• Pistache
• The Terrace & Bar
• The Lounge
• 24 Room service
  
  

Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa - 5 Star

Location:

This 5 star golf resort in Dubai is set on the golden shores of the Arabian Gulf and features its own private beach, making it the perfect choice for family holidays or business stays. When staying at the Resort, guests may choose accommodation in the Jebel Ali Hotel or the luxurious Palm Tree Court & Spa, a member of ‘The Leading Hotels of the World’.

The Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa is situated approximately two kilometres from the trunk of The Palm Jebel Ali. This extraordinary man-made island in the shape of a date palm tree, will be the location for a variety of entertainment and residential complexes once it is completed. Next to The Palm Jebel Ali is Dubai Waterfront, dubbed the world’s largest waterfront development, which will feature a series of commercial and residential communities.

Golf - The 9-hole, par 36, championship standard Resort Course is situated within the idyllic grounds of the Resort. Designed by Peter Harradine and opened in 1998, the Resort Course has hosted the world’s best players as part of the official curtain raiser to the European PGA Tour event, the Dubai Desert Classic.

Each hole is uniquely landscaped with exotic trees, shrubs and original desert flora and the course also features a saltwater lake which comes into play on five holes. The wooden gazebos, views of the Arabian Gulf and peacocks which freely roam the fairways have added a special charm to this course that is a fair and exciting challenge for golfers of all abilities.

Accommodation:

All 260 rooms at the Jebel Ali Hotel overlook the picturesque tropical vista created by the golden beach, marina and golf course. The modest sized Golf View and Sea View Rooms are located on the first four floors, while the fifth floor comprises Superior Rooms that offer great views of the breathtaking surroundings.

Golf View and Sea View Rooms
Offering views of either the Resort Golf Course or the beach and gardens, the modest sized 30 sqm tastefully decorated rooms can accommodate up to two adults and one child under 12 years or two adults and two infants under 2 years. All rooms feature a very small stand out balcony and king or twin beds.

Superior Golf View Rooms
The elegant 60 sqm rooms are located on the fifth floor and feature a king bed, spacious bathrooms with walk-in shower, walk-in wardrobe and a very small stand out balcony. Up to two adults and two children below the age of 12 can be accommodated.

Executive & Superior Executive Suites
Offering a separate sitting and sleeping area, the comfortable 56 sqm Executive Suites on the fourth and fifth floor allow a stunning view onto the Arabian Gulf. Up to two adults and two children below the age of 12 can be accommodated. All Executive Suites have king beds.

Palm Tree Court & Spa
Set amidst 128 acres of beautiful landscaped gardens and a pristine private beach (that comprises the award-winning Jebel Ali Golf Resort & Spa), is the Palm Tree Court & Spa, an exceptional luxury resort on the golden shores of the Arabian Gulf. Guests can choose from elegant beachfront suites and junior suites with private balconies and terraces.

Facilities:

• Threee temperature controlled pools (2 freshwater, 1 seawater)
• 800 Metre private beach
• The 9 Hole Par 36 Golf Course
• Shooting club
• 80-Berth marina
• Fishing
• Waterskiing
• Snorkelling
• Sailing
• Windsurfing
• Spa
• Fitness centre
• Sauna
• Tennis courts
• Camel & horse riding
• Kids Club
• Wireless internet
• Business centre

Dining:

• Signature
• White Orchid
• La Fontana
• La Traviata
• Ibn Majed Restaurant 
• Shooters
• Sports Cafe
• Bars
• 24 Hour room service

Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa - 5 Star

Location:

Set amidst beautifully landscaped gardens and the golden sands of the famed Jumeira strip, Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa is a gateway to the natural splendour of Dubai. Guests immerse themselves in the beauty of the exotic Arabian Gulf, as they kayak through the waves, sail across blue waters, and windsurf against cool breezes.

Just a short distance away from the famous Emirates Golf Club and the exquisite shopping of the Mall of the Emirates, Dubai's best sites await.

Accommodation:

Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa's 500 rooms and suites can cater for almost every type of traveller. From the understated luxury of the Standard rooms, to the business-friendly environment of the Club and the sophisticated splendour of the butler-serviced Tower, the choices are paramount.

Amenities include: High Speed Internet Access, in-Room Safe, bathrobes & Slippers, mini Bar, hairdryer, voicemail, 24-Hour room service, satellite channels, DVD/CD Player, International Direct Dialing, non-Smoking Room, full-length mirror, free newspaper, television with Remote Control, wake-up Service, iron/ironing board, data Port, handicap accessible rooms, turndown Service, smoke detectors in Room, fruit Basket, umbrellas and air-conditioning.    

Facilities:

• Health Club & Spa
• Well equipped gymnasium
• Aerobics centre
• Sauna
• Jacuzzi
• Two outdoor swimming pools (adjoining children's pool)
• Massage & body treatments
• Sailing
• Windsurfing
• Waterskiing
• Kayaks
• Golf course nearby
• Outdoor tennis courts
• Fishing
• Penguin kids club
• Laundry service
• Business facilities

Dining:

• Al Khaima (BBQ)
• Al Murjan
• Brasserie (a la carte/buffet)
• Fusion (Thai)
• La Fornace (Pizza)
• Mi Vida (seafood)
• Ossigeno (Italian)
• Satchmo's
• Seabreeze
• The Piano Bar
• The Pool Bar

Palm Islands:

Palm Islands are the three largest artificial islands in the world.  Palm Jumeirah island is the first chapter of the Palm Trilogy and is expected to attract around 20,000 visitors daily and will be able to accommodate 250,000 people.

Palm Jumeriah:

The Trunk is 2km long. It is a vigorous residence, shopping, and tourism destination, and features upscale housing, hotels, marinas, shops, and restaurants.

The Crescent is 11km long and creates a beautiful breakwater to the trunk and the fronds. The Fronds (of which there will be 17) are for beachfront residences. The Palm Monorail will be available for residents and visitors and will run from the Gateway Station at the trunk to the Atlantis Station on the crescent. It will be 5.4km long and have two intermediate stops: at the Trump International Hotel and Tower, and the Luxury Retail Centre.

The Sub-Sea Tunnel will be the chief form of transportation throughout the island; it connects the main body to the crescent. It will be 1.4km long and provide three lanes of traffic in each direction together with a service/emergency cell in the middle.

The new island will include six marinas that are adult and children friendly alike. There will be a water theme park called "Sea Village" that will feature many rides and attractions with a sea life theme, and a board walk that is part of the "palm". 

In early October 2007, the Palm Jumeirah had already become the world's largest man-made island. Also at this time, 75 percent of the properties were ready to hand over, with 500 families already residing on the island.  By the end of 2009, 28 hotels will be open on the Crescent.

The Trunk:

• Fairmount Palm Hotel and Resort - 5-star resort and spa, featuring indoor and outdoor meeting spaces, willow stream spa, and beach clubs.
• Golden Mile - a strip of upscale boutiques, cafés, walkways and homes.
• IGY (Island Global Yachting) Anchor Marina - accommodation for 700 plus yachts, including dining, retail, clubhouse and special events.
• Oceana - luxury condos and 5-star resort hotel, featuring a waterside running track and promenade, infinity pool, gymnasium, and a business centre.
• Shoreline Apartments - 5 exclusive beachfront clubhouses, providing fitness centres, retail outlets, al fresco dining, swimming pools and access beaches.
• Tiara Residences - 6 luxury apartment towers and the 6-star Palm Anantara Hotel, Resort & Spa, featuring two spas, two fitness centres, and restaurants.
• Trump International Hotel and Tower - 60 storey mixed-use building for luxury hotel and residences, featuring a sky lobby, retail, and beautiful views up the trunk. Artists impression right.

The Crescent:

• Atlantis, the Palm - ocean-themed resort, featuring water attractions, marine animal habitats, and The Dig (an archaeological experience)
• Jumeirah Al Fattan Palm Resort - 6 storey luxury hotel and residence, including a spa, private marina, and beach club.
• Radisson SAS Hotel Dubai, Palm Jumeirah
• Kempinski Hotel Emerald Palace Dubai - 5 star resort and hotel on top of two 7 storey buildings and Kempinski Palm Jumeirah Residences, featuring a concierge, shopping arcade, and gardens.
• Kingdom of Sheba - residential and leisure luxury resort, including a traditional souk (market), a beach club, and a concierge.
• Royal Amwaj - luxury residential and resort area, with two natural lagoons, international cuisine, and an infinity pool.
• Taj Exotica Resort and Spa - 5 star resort and spa, with a Jiva spa, gourmet dining, and water sports.  Artists impression right.

Atlantis The Palm - 5 Star (opens September 2008)

Location:

The Royal Towers of Atlantis; an architectural wonder announcing both a new landmark and an exciting dimension to Dubai. The towering arches, arabesque domes and ornate spires describe a place of fascinating design, sculptural beauty and constant surprise.

Every guest room and suite at Atlantis, The Palm has a magnificent view. Guests can choose to overlook the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf or the The Palm, Jumeirah.

Accommodation:

The 1539 guest rooms and suites are spacious and well-equipped. The suites are sumptuously appointed with walk-in wardrobes, dressing areas and jetted tubs. The spectacular Bridge Suite spans the entire section of the Royal Towers with a private elevator and 24-hour butler service. The Royal and Presidential Suites offer stately grandeur and enjoy commanding vistas.

The Lost Chambers:

Discover the secrets of Atlantis in a labyrinth of chambers. Inspired by the myths of the lost continent, The Lost Chambers will immerse you in an exotic array of sea creatures, mystical antiquities and ancient ruins.

Twenty fresh and seawater exhibits surround the submerged ‘City of Atlantis’. Visitors pass through sunken rooms – the Generator Room, the Navigation Room, the Workshop and many more – filled with the detailed remnants of Atlantean life.

Moving through the chambers, guests travel on a fascinating journey in this underwater world. In the gigantic Ambassador Lagoon, over 65,000 fish swim through sunken treasures where sharks and manta rays glide gracefully.

Facilities:

• Aquaventure - playground of water thrills and swimming pools
• Ziggurat - 27.5 metre near-vertical drop propelling visitors through a submerged tunnel into a shark-filled lagoon.
• Fitness Centre
• Spa
• Body treatments & massage
• Gymnasium
• Family pool
• Royal pool
• Atlantis beach
• Windsurfing
• Kayaking
• Children's clubs
• Deep sea fishing excursions

Dining:

• 17 restaurants, bars & lounges to suite every taste

The Palm Jebel Ali:

The Palm Jebel Ali began construction in October 2002 and is expected to be completed in mid 2008.  The Palm Jebel Ali is expected to accommodate 1.7 million people by 2020. Once it has been completed, it will be encircled by Dubai Waterfront. The project, which is 50 percent larger than the Palm Jumeriah, will include six marinas, a water theme park, 'Sea Village', homes built on stilts above the water, and boardwalks that circle the "fronds" of the "palm" and spell out an Arabic poem by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Dubai Festival City:

The Dubai Festival City is a large residential, business and entertainment development in the city of Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Touted as a "city-within-a-city", Dubai Festival City is the Middle East's largest mixed-use development: all elements for work, living, and leisure will be contained within the project. Once completed Festival City will comprise a series of residential communities, numerous hotels, malls, a golf course and other entertainment sites, and a full suite of public services, including schools.

The development also includes 5 hotels, three of which are to be opened in 2007 and will be managed by InterContinental Hotels Group. The InterContinental Dubai Festival City and the Crowne Plaza Dubai Festival City are directly connected to the Festival Waterfront Centre. The InterContinental Residence Suites, located in Marsa Plaza, will provide long term stay apartments with stunning view of Dubai Creek.

The other two hotels in the project will include the 350-room W Dubai - Festival City (to be operated by the W brand of Starwood Hotels), opening at the end of 2008, and the 400-room Four Seasons Hotel Dubai Festival City, scheduled to open in 2010.
 

InterContinental Hotel Dubai Festival City - 5 Star

Location:

Inspired by a graceful sailboat, InterContinental Dubai Festival City stands tall amid the business and shopping districts. If you’re in town on business, you’ll appreciate the proximity to Burj Dubai, the Business Bay and Dubai World Trade Centre, but leisure options are also convenient. Bastakiya, Dubai Museum and Al Mamzar Beach Park are nearby.

Accommodation:

Spacious standard rooms are 43 square metres in size, with modern European style décor and views of either Festival Marina, historic Dubai Creek or city skyline.

Club InterContinental rooms offer complimentary access to Club Lounge including: snacks & drinks; welcome & airport transfers; breakfast; high-speed Internet; morning & afternoon tea; evening cocktail dinatoire; 3-hour Boardroom hire; late checkout until 4:00pm subject to availability.

InterContinental Dubai Festival City boasts a total of 121 luxury Suites, the top suites located on levels 20, 21 and 22 will feature stunning 180 degree views of the Dubai Creek and Sheikh Zayed Road skyline.

Luxury amenities will be provided in all rooms and suites,

Facilities:

• Spa & wellness centre
• Asian & Arabic infused holistic therapies
• 24 Hour gymnasium
• Sauna
• Whirlpool
• 25M Outdoor heated pool
• Children's pool
• Sun deck
• Connected to world class shopping centre
• Connected to luxury 100-berth marina
• Nearby golf courses
• Business services
• Dry cleaning/laundry service
• WiFi in public areas

Dining:

• Anise
• Edamame (Japanese cuisine)
• Al Sultan Brahim Beirut (Arabic specialities & seafood)
• Bistro Madeleine
• Reflets Par Pierre Gagnaire (3 star Michelin chef)
• 2 Bars
  

Dubailand:

Dubailand is the vision of Dubai's current ruler Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The development is expected to be a full featured city divided into seven theme worlds. The short range goal of the Dubailand is to attract 15 million tourists to Dubai by 2010.

Developers expect to accomplish this goal by creating a tourism, entertainment, and leisure destination that will attract visitors not only from surrounding countries but also from Europe and Asia. The venture is expected to attract approximately 200,000 visitors daily and cost $20 billion.

It will be twice the size of Walt Disney World, currently the largest collection of amusement parks in the world. Private reaction towards the project has been positive and Dubai has exceeded the $4.9 billion private investment figure it expected on the entire project by collecting approximately $6 billion from the private sector for the first phase alone.

The first of four phases comprising the development of Dubailand will be completed in early 2008 since the developers decided to extend the park by 50 percent subsequently bumping up its completion date. Completion of the final phase is targeted for some time between 2015 and 2018. Dubailand is seen by its designers as a city and therefore like a city they expect it to continue to grow and develop beyond the four phase plan.

A few of the Dubailand facilities like the Dubai Autodrome and The Global Village are already operational.

Dubailand will include seven zones (or worlds) under the banners of:

• Attractions & Experience World: (13 square km), which will include theme parks, The Global Village, Kids City, Giants World, Universal Studios Dubai, Sahara Kingdom, Tiger Woods Golf Course, Water Parks, Legoland Dubai, Bawadi and Dubai Snowdome (an indoor ski resort).
• Retail and Entertainment World: (4 square km), which will include a Flea Market, World Trade Park, Auction World, and Factory Outlets.
• Themed Leisure and Vacation World: (29 square km), which will include Women's World, Destination Dubai, Desert Kingdom, and Andalusian Resort and Spa.
• Eco-Tourism World: (75 sqaure km), which will include Desert Safari, Al Sahara Desert Resort, Sand Dune Hotel, Desert Camps, Bio World, Animal World and Dubai Heritage Vision. 
• Sports and Outdoor World: (19 sqaure km), which will include Dubai Sports City, Dubai Golf City, Emerat Sports World, Dubai Golf City, Plantation Equestrian and Polo Club and the Dubai Autodrome.
• Downtown: ( 1.8 square km), which will include the City of Arabia (Mall of Arabia, which will be the world's largest shopping mall), City Walk, Restless Planet, The Great Dubai Wheel (a 185 m Ferris wheel), and Virtual Game World.
• Science & Planetariums: Space Academy 

Al Sahra Desert Resort - 5 Star (Opens 2008 for overnight guests)

Location:

Located in the eco-tourism section of Dubailand, just thirty minutes from the heart of Dubai. The Al Sahra Desert Resort officially opened in November 2006 and is home of Dubai's first permanent outdoor show - 'Jumana - Secret of the Desert' - a show celebrating the Arabian region's history and culture, incorporating folklore themes from Persia, the Maghreb, the Levant, the Gulf region, Oman and Yemen. Performed in an open-air amphitheatre, the show incorporates various imagistic theatre techniques such as sound, laser and water effects, pyrotechnics and fireworks; 60 dancers and acrobats, camels and horses, complement the cast; Omar Sharif is the voice of the narrator.

Accommodation:

The master-planned project will host 50 luxury tented lodges and a 132-room caravanserai styled boutique hotel when it is completed in 2008.

Facilities:

• Al Sahra Ampitheatre
• "Jumana Secret of the Desert" extravaganza
• Al Sahra Craft Souk and Oasis Village
• Falcon display
• Horse riding
• Camel rides
• Petting zoo
• Archery
• Nature walks
• Al Sahra Events Arena

Dining:

• The Lahab BBQ & Grill
• King Othman's Lounge
• The Fig & Date Coffee Shop
• Shisha Area
• Oasis Garden Picnic

Dubai Marina:

Dubai Marina is a district in the heart of what has recently become known as 'new Dubai' and is located on Interchange 5 between Jebel Ali Port and the area which hosts Dubai Internet City, Dubai Media City and the American University in Dubai. The first phase of this project has been completed.

The marina is entirely man-made and has been developed by the real estate development firm Emaar Properties of the United Arab Emirates. The marina will contain over 200 high-rise buildings and some supertall skyscrapers, Dubai Marina Towers, The Torch Dubai Marina, Infinity Tower, The Princess Tower, Number One Dubai Marina, Marina Terrace, Le Reve (Dubai) and Horizon Tower to name a few, and comprise of an area of 4.9 million sqaure metres, which includes the 40 residential and hotel towers of the Jumeirah Beach Residence. Upon completion, it is claimed to be the world's largest man-made marina.

Tamani Marina Hotel - 5 Star (opened February 2008)

Location:

Discover the newest and tallest suites hotel to rise in the upscale Dubai Marina area. The Tamani Hotel Marina is an exclusive development comprising of a 55 storey, five-star deluxe residential tower, where business and pleasure are entwined in refined elegance. Designed for the most discerning cosmopolitan traveller and business executive; The Tamani Hotel Marina has a sophisticated touch of Arabic hospitality.

Accommodation:

Stylish modern architecture, accentuated in glass and steel, with 209 spacious two, three and four bedroom units, offers elegant sorroundings laden with finest amenities and facilities ensuring a stylish environment for those conducting business and leisure. Apartments offer stunning views of the Marina and Palm Island.

Two Bedrooms Suite (135 square metres)
Master king size bedroom with en-suite bathroom, Twin bedroom with separate bathroom. Fully equipped kitchen including a cooker, fridge, microwave, dishwasher, coffee maker, electric kettle and washing machine with dryer. Spacious living room and dining area for up to 6 persons Different views available: Marina, Skyline and Palm Island view Maids room with separate shower room.
Premier Dubai Skyline    Floors 06-25   
Exclusive Dubai Skyline Floors 27-46   
Premier Marina View      Floors 06-25   
Exclusive Marina View   Floors 27-46   
Premier Palm View        Floors 06-25  
Exclusive Palm View     Floors 27-46   

Three Bedrooms Suite (225 square metres)
Master king size bedroom with en-suite bathroom, Twin bedroom with en-suite bathroom, Queen size bedroom with separate bathroom. Fully equipped kitchen including a cooker, fridge, microwave, dishwasher, coffee maker, electric kettle and washing machine with dryer Maids room with separate shower room Spacious living room Dining room for up to 8 persons.
Premier Palm View    Floors 06-25 
Exclusive Palm View  Floors 27-46   

Penthouse (295 square metres)  Floors 48-50
Fully equipped four-bedroom Penthouse with Master King size bedroom with en-suite whirlpool bathroom, King size bedroom with en-suite bathroom, Twin bedroom with en-suite bathroom, Twin bedroom with separate bathroom. Fully equipped kitchen including a cooker, fridge, microwave, dishwasher, washing machine with dryer, coffee maker and electric kettle Spacious living room Dining room for up to 10 persons Maids room with separate shower room.

Facilities:

• Outoor & indoor swimming pools
• Gymnasium
• Health Club
• Jacuzzi
• Sauna
• Steam room
• Emirates Golf Club nearby
• Dubai Marina Motor Yacht Club nearby
• Mall of the Emirates nearby
• WiFi in public areas
• Business centre
• 24 Hour front desk
• Parking

Dining:

• Massarat (Arabic/Mediterranean Brasserie)
  

The Future:

Dubai is catapulting itself into the twenty second century with vision and flair.  There will be something for everyone to enjoy in this rapidly developing desert landscape.

The Bawadi Project aims to develop 60,000 themed hotel rooms in Dubai over the coming years.  One of the projects of this investment is the Asia-Asia Resort, which will be the largest hotel in the world when completed, with more than 6,500 rooms. The Asia-Asia will also have life-size pagodas and shrines.

Al Burj Dubai:

The daring Burj Dubai is already the tallest man-made structure on earth. Construction is due to be completed in September 2009.

The exterior cladding of Burj Dubai will consist of 142,000 square metres of reflective glazing, and aluminium and textured stainless steel spandrel panels with vertical tubular fins. The cladding system is designed to withstand Dubai's extreme summer temperatures.

The interior will be decorated by Giorgio Armani. An Armani Hotel (the first of its kind) will occupy the lower 37 floors. Floors 45 through 108 will have 700 private apartments on 64 floors (which, according to the developer, sold out within eight hours of going on sale). An outdoor zero-entry swimming pool will be located on the 78th floor of the tower. Corporate offices and suites will fill most of the remaining floors, except for a 123rd floor lobby and 124th floor (about 440 m) indoor/outdoor observation deck. The spire - itself over 200 m tall - will hold communications equipment.

It will also feature the world's fastest elevator, rising and descending at 18 m/s. The world's current fastest elevator (in the Taipei 101) travels at 16.83 m/s. A total of 56 elevators will be installed that can each carry 42 people at a time. 

The Lagoons:

The Lagoons is a real-estate development situated along Dubai Creek, near Ras Al Khor Road. The Lagoons area will cover an area of 6.5 million square metres.

Seven artificial islands, which will each be linked to each other, will consist of residential apartments, shopping malls, office buildings, five-star hotels, resorts, a museum, marinas, and Dubai's first opera house.

The project's cost is estimated to be around AED 80 billion. It will be developed by the real estate firm Sama Dubai. Groundbreaking and soil-testing will commence in late 2008 while the finished project is due for completion between 2010 and 2011.

The Seven Districts:

• Al Dana: The business heartland of Dubai, Al Dana will be defined by the presence of blue chip businesses and executive style living.
• Al Sedaifa: World class retailers of fashion, jewellery and interior design abound. A place where you’ll find something for the person that has everything.
• Al Jiyoon: The social hub of The Lagoons, Al Jiyoon is somewhere to meet friends, enjoy a coffee or simply browse the boutiques and shops.
• Al Hassabi: Remarkable for its large parklands, waterways, walkways and bicycle tracks, Al Hassabi is a perfect place for relaxed living.
• Al Naama:With health clubs, sports clubs and spas sitting next door to museums, arts and crafts, you can treat body and mind alike.
• Al Lulu: Make your home in an exclusive gated villa on the waterfront, with spectacular views across the bay to the wildlife sanctuary and iconic Dubai Opera House.
• Dubai Opera House: Home of Dubai’s only opera house, a truly iconic building with internationally recognised architecture where world class performers are set to take the stage.

Dubai Towers, Dubai:

The Lagoons will also showcase the Dubai Towers Dubai skyscraper complex. This development will include four mixed-use, state of the art luxury towers. It is believed that the tallest tower will reach a height of 400 metres while two of the others will exceed 300 metres. These towers will be the grand centre of the mega-project.

Designed by Thompson, Ventulett, Stainback & Associates, these towers are intended to create a dramatic new landmark for Dubai. Their design represents the movement of candlelight and according to Thompson, Ventulett, Stainback & Associates, this is supposed to symbolise hope, harmony, growth and opportunity. They will contain offices, apartments, hotel rooms, retail, entertainment, gymnasiums, health spas and a variety of other services.

The World:

The World is a man-made archipelago of 300 islands in the shape of a world map currently being built off the coast of Dubai. The World is one of a series of artificial island projects in Dubai, along with the Palm Islands, and like the other islands The World is being built primarily using sand dredged from the sea. The World is the brainchild of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai.

The distance between each island will be an average of 100 metres.  The entire development covers an area of 9 km in length and 6 km in width, surrounded by an oval breakwater. Roughly 232 km of shoreline has been created. The overall development cost of The World was estimated as 14 billion USD. As for the individual islands, prices range between 15 and 50 million USD.

Holiday Request Form 

Sailing images reproduced with kind permission of Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09, copyright laws apply. 

Top of Page