Dubai Metro Blue Line: Here's where the 14 new stations will be located

The Dubai Metro Blue Line is one of the most highly anticipated projects coming to Dubai.
Split into two routes, one spanning 21km and the other across 9km, the Blue Line will connect the north-east of the city with the existing Dubai Metro line and make it much easier and quicker to get around.
It is scheduled to be completed by 2029, to coincide with the 20th anniversary of the Dubai Metro, and will eventually reach around one million people.
As Dubai continues to evolve and grow its population, new Metro lines and stations are necessary to meet the demand. The new line is expected to decrease traffic congestion by 20 percent once complete and will provide a direct connection to DXB for nine key areas.
You may like: 18 renamed Dubai Metro stations (and their true meanings explained)
The Roads and Transport Authority has revealed the locations that will be served along the route and will eventually announce the names that each station will bear.
Dubai Metro Blue Line route explained
Academic City
The university town has a campus area of more than 129 million square feet and is predicted to accommodate more than 50,000 students by 2029. The area includes several homegrown colleges and imported institutions such as Heriot-Watt University, Middlesex University and University of Wollongong in Dubai. Thinking of studying in Dubai? Here's how to get a UAE student visa.
Al Jaddaf
(Credit: Supplied)
The first route of the Dubai Metro Blue Line will begin at the existing Creek Station at Al Jaddaf. The interchange station will allow people on the Blue Line a direct connection with the Green Line. A vibrant neighbourhood in the northern part of the city, this part of Dubai sits right on the waterfront, meaning it is packed with pretty views and things to do.
Al Rashidiya
(Credit: Dubai Media Office)
Another interchange station, Al Rashidiya will be where the second route begins. Currently called Centrepoint Station on the Red Line, the final station on the Red Line will connect with the Blue Line. It is one of three metro stations with a free car park and serves the Al Rashidya community in the north of the city.
Al Warqa
Al Warqa will be found on the smaller second route of the Dubai Metro Blue Line. The residential area is home to around 60,000 residents and the Dubai Safari Park. It provides a much-needed extra transport link to a growing community.
Dubai Creek Harbour
Emaar Properties Station will be the world's tallest metro station (Credit: Dubai Media Office)
Dubai Creek Harbour will be home to the world's tallest metro station once the Blue Line is up and running. The landmark 'iconic' station will be named Emaar Properties Station for at least the first 10 years of operations. The 11,000 square metre space is designed to handle up to 160,000 passengers, with more than 70,000 expected to use it daily once it is operational.
A 1,300 metre-long viaduct will be constructed to allow the Metro to cross the Dubai Creek.
Dubai Festival City
(Credit: Dubai Festival City Mall)
Dubai Festival City will sit along the larger 21km route of the Dubai Metro Blue Line. The area is home to one of the largest malls in the city and approximately 77,000 residents. The Metro service will provide a direct link for the area to key parts in the city, and means that there won't be as much reliance on the abra boat service between the mall and Al Jaddaf Marine Station to get to the Creek Station.
Dubai International Airport
(Credit: DXB)
The Blue Line will provide a direct link between the key areas situated along the route and Dubai International Airport. Current estimations state that journeys will connect to the world's busiest international airport in just 20 minutes. It's unclear whether the Blue Line will use the existing Metro stations at Terminals 1 and 3 or whether a new station will be constructed to connect the Blue Line.
Dubai Silicon Oasis
(Credit: Shutterstock)
Dubai Silicon Oasis is earmarked for major development as part of the Dubai 2040 Urban Master Plan. The hub for innovation and knowledge supports the growth of the technology-driven economy and attracts skilled and creative talent to the city. On the Blue Line, a station will sit on the 21km route.
International City
The new route provides a better connection to Dragon Mart in International City (Credit: Supplied)
One of the areas to benefit the most from the Dubai Metro Blue Line will be International City. There will be three stations based in International City, including one underground interchange station allowing for greater connectivity across the existing Metro lines. All three stations will be included on the bigger 21km route. The area is home to Dragon Mart and is visited by more than 200,000 residents and visitors.
Mirdif
City Centre Mirdif (Credit: Supplied)
The larger 21km route on the Blue Line will link with the Mirdif neighbourhood. Home to the popular Al Mushrif Park and the Mirdif City Centre mall, it's a suburban community in need of direct transport links.
Ras Al Khor
Ras Al Khor sanctuary (Credit: supplied)
Ras Al Khor will also be served by the larger route on the Blue Line. Found between the Emaar Properties Station and the International City stops, Ras Al Khor will soon have greater connectivity with DXB and other major areas in Dubai. Ras Al Khor is popular among nature lovers due to its wildlife sanctuary, which is home to all sorts of animals, including flamingoes.
More Dubai transport news
Dubai confirms a Blue Line Metro station name
And more details you need to know
6 wild public transport projects coming soon to Dubai
From Elon Musk's underground tunnel to a trackless tram
57 major road projects coming to Dubai by 2027 — here's what to expect
And how they'll improve your journey

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Metro

11 hours ago

• Metro

I've been in a long-distance relationship for six years — I don't want to commit

Welcome to How I Do It, the series in which we give you a seven-day sneak peek into the sex life of a stranger. This week we hear from Braxton*, 37, a high school teacher and freelance writer living in Phoenix, Arizona. He met his partner, 42-year-old Hannah*, in March 2019 when they both lived in Portland, and the pair have been on and off for the past six years. 'We have at times dated other people, and since I moved from Portland to Chicago in 2020 for graduate school, we see each other only a few times a year, usually around Thanksgiving and Christmas,' Braxton tells Metro. 'Because we're very different (in our habits, in our social and political outlooks), we aren't compatible enough to live together, and we don't consider ourselves boyfriend and girlfriend. 'I tried meeting women in Arizona through Tinder and Bumble, but I've only been physically intimate with Hannah the past two years.' The pair talk a lot on the phone and like to meet up when Hannah travels from her home in Nevada back to Portland for work, usually booking a hotel together. 'A big part of our relationship is laughing and being silly,' adds Braxton. 'When we aren't together, Hannah masturbates, but I haven't in four years, to focus on writing.' As you can imagine, there's some pent up sexual tension. So without further ado, here's how Braxton got on this week… Love reading juicy stories like this? Need some tips for how to spice things up in the bedroom? Sign up to The Hook-Up and we'll slide into your inbox every week with all the latest sex and dating stories from Metro. We can't wait for you to join us! The following sex diary is, as you might imagine, not safe for work . My day begins at a hotel in downtown Phoenix, where I've been covering a fan convention for a local independent weekly since Friday. I pack up, and take a rideshare thirty miles out into the suburbs, where I live. I go to the gym shortly after returning home, then work on my articles and pack until late evening. Hannah calls at about 9pm, having just checked into the Portland hotel where we're about spend the week together (she paid for this, since my teacher's salary means even paying for food during the trip will be more than I can afford). While I pack, we talk about our intentions to try having sex in the car, which we've never done. I ask which outfits she's bringing, and she's not sure since she's gained a lot of weight in the last two years, so a lot of her clothes don't fit anymore. When Hannah asks what I think about her weight gain, I say it's fine; I like squeezing her 'jelly' (her word) while we're having sex. But the more nuanced answer is she's less visually attractive now compared to a few years ago. However, there's something primal and satisfying about grabbing her large bottom, feeling her large, heavy breasts smashing into my face and her big thighs wrapped around me. On the call, Hannah gets aroused talking about it, and we laugh about how she has gotten wet enough that she has to change clothes after the call. I arrive in Portland at 9.30am and pick up the rental car. I've packed about three dozen absorbent incontinence pads, which we put down during sex because Hannah gets wet and squirts when aroused and orgasming. When we meet that evening, we kiss briefly in the parking lot and drive back to the hotel. She's wearing a denim dress, and I feel her bare leg up while driving. Back at the hotel, Hannah showers and comes into the room with a towel wrapped around. She suggests I mash her breasts (I say mash because she likes it vigorous and doesn't like the word fondle, which she thinks sounds like a molestation word) through the towel and we see how long we can hold off before having sex. We turn to face the mirror while I do just that. After a few minutes, Hannah puts some pads on the floor, and places one leg up on the bed as I reach around and finger her from behind. After she comes, she places more fresh pads on on the bed, lies on her back, and asks me to give it to her. She places a vibrating cock ring between us, though not over my penis because we find this setup awkward. I begin slowly and speed up when she asks me to finish inside her, which I do. We lie there for a few minutes before Hannah gets up to shower and I wipe myself down. After Hannah showers, we sit on the bed, and as we're eating dinner, she tells me how she lost her virginity at 36, on Easter Sunday. It's not the first time we've spoken about it and I know she waited because of her family's conservative values and her self-consciousness. Hannah, as is her habit, has set several morning alarms. We wake and cuddle. I'm tired and not getting much of an erection; Hannah says she's aroused, but isn't getting wet and either forgot to pack lube or has already misplaced it. She gets on top with her breasts in my face, then switch to me on top with her legs wrapped around my back and me feeling at her thighs. Afterwards, we realise we'd neglected to put a pad down, so when we get up, there's a wet spot on the sheets. Hannah asks me to drop her off close to her office, but not right at the door, because she doesn't want her colleagues to ask questions. During the day I buy some supplies at Target (including lube and nail polish remover) and meet my parents – who are on their way to the airport for a trip to Europe – for a late lunch. I pick Hannah up from work, then we drive to a nearby strip mall so she can look for clothes, before we get takeout and head back to the hotel. We were planning on driving to a secluded area after sunset have sex in the rental car, but Hannah goes out to call her friends, and I stay in the room to read. She's gone long enough that I drift off. She comes in late and very high, touching my penis roughly, in a way that isn't sexy. She talks manically and nonsensically for half an hour, so we call off having sex and go to sleep. We talk very little in the morning as I drop Hannah off at her office. I meet a friend at the park in the afternoon and don't leave to pick up Hannah until after 5pm, so she meets me at the hotel. We talk about the previous night, with me explaining how unsettling it is to be around her when she's high and that the way she touches me is unpleasant. She tears up and asks if we should get separate rooms or if I feel safe. I say that's unnecessary but that I don't feel sexy and don't want to have sex tonight. We wake at one of Hannah's earlier alarms and cuddle. She starts rubbing my chest, then asks me to take off my shorts so she can go lower. I remove the shorts, and she starts stroking my penis with lube. I'm soon erect, and she gets on top, asking if I like all that jelly — I say I do. After she comes, she gets on her back and wraps her legs around my back until I do too. I pick Hannah up after work and we return to the hotel to change before driving to a large independent bookstore downtown, stopping to pick up takeout on the way. We discuss trying to find a good car sex spot tonight, but I feel restless having not read or written much today. We go back to the hotel, where I read and Hannah putters around the room, before going to sleep without having sex, which is fine by me. Today is our last full day together. We have a morning bonk, doing the same positions as yesterday. After stopping at Starbucks and make some double entendre jokes about vegan sausages and venti drinks, I drop her off at her office. I see a friend before dropping Hannah at the spa with her pals, before going to meet another good friend of mine. I return to the hotel at about 10.30pm, and Hannah arrives shortly thereafter. We get into bed with the lights off and begin cuddling, then Hannah climbs on top. She comes, but I'm getting worn out and seem unable to climax from intercourse at this point in the week. I ask Hannah to use her hand, so she straddles me and strokes my penis as I squeeze her thighs until I orgasm. She lies down on me for a while before going to the bathroom to shower. We discuss how we want to have sex in the morning and decide to wake up early to do it at least once. We'd planned to wake early to bonk, and my alarm goes off at 5.30am, but we fall back to sleep and don't wake until 7am, missing the opportunity. More Trending Right before it's time to leave, I try on some shirts I bought recently so Hannah can comment on the fit and patterns. We drop off the rental car and race each other, Hannah on the moving sidewalks and escalators and me walking and taking the stairs. I wait with her at the bag check, then we kiss goodbye. I don't feel sad at this moment but that's because neither of us want this relationship to be more than it is. We enjoy sex with each other, and enjoy laughing and being silly together — but even after a few days together, things can get strained. I take the hotel shuttle back to the room and pack up. Hannah calls to say she missed her flight because she was in the bathroom with her earbuds in and missed the announcements. View More » I take a rideshare to meet my friend on the other side of town, not knowing when I'll see Hannah again. Do you have a story to share? Get in touch by emailing MetroLifestyleTeam@ MORE: I uncovered my husband's dirty secret while he was in a coma MORE: I thought I was confident in my body — then I got my first girlfriend MORE: I dumped ex for being boring in bed — but my new girlfriend's sex fantasy is too much

Telegraph

a day ago

• Telegraph

Your dream family holiday in Dubai awaits at Mina Seyahi Resorts

In a city of superlatives, Mina Seyahi is a destination rich with standout experiences for all ages. Unrolling along a prime shorefront strip of golden Dubai beachfront, Mina Seyahi's trio of all-encompassing Marriott International hotels – the slick W Hotel, the luxurious Westin and the family-centric Le Méridien – are idyllically landscaped together to form a powerhouse playground that provides the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable Dubai holiday. Guests are spoilt for choice, and sun-soaked days can be curated to suit your holiday style. From drop-and-flop beach breaks to action-packed itineraries that make the most of the burgeoning facilities, it's a destination that will delight all ages. The young and young-at-heart can get their thrills at the splash-tastic Jungle Bay Waterpark, a leisure treasure of adrenalin-rushing slides, a playful wave pool and an aqua climbing frame. And when hunger strikes, the remarkable collection of 21 restaurants and bars are an invitation to dine around the world without leaving the comforts of the resort. Luxury at The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina A grand dame of Dubai's luxury and family-friendly hotel scene, The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi has all the ingredients for an all-encompassing family escape. Its recently renovated rooms and suites are bright and sophisticated, reimagined into contemporary cocoons of comfort packed with five-star amenities: plush robes, fluffy towels and Westin White Tea Heavenly Bath amenities. Once you're all checked in, gourmet dining, inviting swimming pools and exhilarating watersports are all at your fingertips. While the little ones burn off steam at the vibrant kids' club – with its regular roster of engaging activities – adults can recline poolside at the adults-only Mare by Bussola, a refined ode to sun-drenched Italian Riviera days. There's also The Heavenly Spa, a haven of R&R, where each pampering massage, scrub and wrap leads you to tune out and switch off. For those looking to tick off a bucket-list Dubai brunch, the grand, gourmet extravaganza that is Bubbalicious – which takes over three of The Westin's restaurants every Saturday afternoon – is a must-try. A wonderland for gourmands, it's a stellar spread of rainbow-hued salads, decadent seafood towers and cooked-to-order meats backdropped by live music, circus-style entertainment and pop-up bars serving refreshing cocktails. Elsewhere, culinary highlights include authentic tapas at cosy El Sur, premium cuts served in an elevated setting at Baba Steakhouse and Bussola, an Italian restaurant with a beautiful sunset terrace loved by Dubai locals for its laidback ambience and hearty dishes. Experience the high life at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi Bringing W Hotels' bold spirit to the beachfront at Mina Seyahi, this resort offers lashings of style, substance and soul. This glittering tower is the perfect base for an unforgettable Dubai holiday – the attention to detail and high-octane experiences are second to none. The collection of 318 design-led rooms and suites are personality-packed spaces that feature signature Mix bars, vibrant artworks that tell stories of local traditions and beautiful views that stretch over the Arabian Gulf. Much of the daytime action revolves around California-cool Ginger Moon, where guests can hop between plush loungers and a shimmering infinity pool while grazing on crowd-pleasing dishes that put fresh, seasonal flavours centre stage. As day turns to night, few sunsets offer the wow factor that can be found at W Dubai – Mina Seyahi – head to the haute rooftop Attiko, a Japanese lounge with a regular rotation of live DJs and a wrap-around terrace that perfectly frames the twinkling city after dark. Unforgettable family fun at Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark Lean in to lazy days and family forays at Le Méridien, where chic European touches are laced through a property that oozes multi-generational appeal. While the prime location ensures Dubai's world-class malls and attractions are within easy reach, its family-centric amenities mean you could be tempted to spend every second at the resort. Jungle Bay Waterpark, in its whitewashed hues inspired by the Cyclades, offers endless hours of fun for children of all ages. From the dedicated splash pads and small slides for little ones to the more adventurous racer rides, body slides and a pneumatic wave pool, the thrills are endless. An expansive indoor-outdoor kids' club brings out little one's inner musician, athlete and artist with an array of boredom-banishing activities. And while children are busy carving out their future careers, adults can soak up the sun on one of Dubai's longest private beaches, take to the water in a kayak or on a paddleboard from the watersports centre, or make their way to Barasti, one of the city's most renowned beach bars. If relaxation, convenience and a worry-free experience are at the top of your list, then the all-inclusive packages offered across all three hotels have your name written all over them, and the half-board option is perfect for an adventurous foodie who lives for the thrill of trying local delicacies. Other luxuries packaged in your stay includes complimentary self and valet parking, Wi-Fi and 24-hour room service, while premium services include airport transfers and Club Lounge access. This content is provided by an advertiser, and while every care is taken in ensuring the content complies with the Advertising Standards Authority and the UK Code of Non-broadcast Advertising and Direct & Promotional Marketing (CAP Code), Telegraph Media Group assumes no responsibility in the effect rising therefrom, and readers are advised to seek professional advice before acting on any information. The Daily Telegraph/TMG does not accept any liability for views expressed, pictures used or claims made by advertisers.

Metro

2 days ago

• Metro

Why I keep going back to the world's ‘most overrated' city

In the tenth installment of Metro Travel Hot Takes, Lifestyle Editor Kristina Beanland makes the case for Dubai — a futuristic city with more to offer than its glittering skyline. When I tell people I'm going on another trip to Dubai, I know I'm going to be met with a response along the lines of: 'I have no desire to go there'. It's followed up with comments that Dubai has no culture, is too materialistic and is full of influencers and/or Love Island rejects. I've heard on more than one occasion how it's the world's most overrated holiday destination. These remarks are particularly irritating when someone confidently claims all of the above without ever having actually set foot there. It's one of the most visited cities in the world and tourists have good reason to flock there, with Dubai recently landing a spot on Time Out's list of the 50 best cities in the world in 2025. It's become famed for its brunches and beach clubs – and while they're right up my alley, there's so much more to Dubai than what you see on Instagram. I first visited Dubai when I was still at primary school after my extended family moved out there. Back then, no one had ever heard of it. I remember 'the adults' heading off on a boat trip to see The Palm being constructed – the man-made island that is now arguably the most boujee part of Dubai. And home to some of the world's tallest skyscrapers, Dubai boasts an impressive skyline. But the natural beauty is stunning too (yes, really). From the mountainous Hatta to the deserts that surround the city, you'll be surprised by how beautiful sand can be. And, I hate to burst your bubble, but with more than 200 nationalities living and working together, there's a kaleidoscope of culture – you just have to know where to find it. So, the next time someone tells you they're heading off to Dubai, don't judge. You're the one missing out. From delicious food and desert adventure, to water sports and local produce, here are four reason why you should visit. Food glorious food Much like London, Dubai can offer you restaurants that cater to any appetite and cuisine. There's French fayre at Couqley, Japanese at Zuma and Carnival by Trèsind, which offers a seasonal Indian menu. If you want to get under the shiny surface though, I recommend heading out to Old Dubai. To get your bearings, book yourself onto a tour with Frying Pan Adventures. We went on the Middle Eastern Food Pilgrimage with our knowledgeable guide, Farida, who actually runs the company with her sister, Arva. Both are originally from India but grew up in Dubai. You might have even spotted Arva on the Dubai episode of Netflix's Somebody Feed Phil. It's clear that Farida not only loves food, but the neighbourhood, Al Rigga, in the district of Deira, that she's showing us around. One of the oldest areas in the city at one point, she even points out her own apartment block. This is a different Dubai to the one you'll see on The Palm. It's full of people, noise — and hardly any tourists. Arrive at the tour with an empty stomach and you will not be disappointed. We ate some of the best shawarma I've ever tasted from a curb-side hole in the wall, and the most delicious chickpea falafel at a family-run restaurant. We also sat down at an Iraqi eatery to try their national dish, Masgouf, freshwater carp that's been smoked on a wood fire. As we tucked into the fish, Farida explained how Masgouf is so much more than just a meal to the people of Iraq – but a dish that always tastes like home, wherever they may be. While Farida finished the tour at Samadi Sweets — a favourite from her childhood serving up baklava and gahwa (a strong Arabic coffee that's an acquired taste…), it's kunafa that will always have my heart. We sampled the treat, made with spun pastry, sugar syrup and cheese (don't knock it 'til you've tried it) at Palestinian-Jordanian restaurant Qwaider Al Nabulsi Sweets. At 435 Dhs (around £90) for a 3.5 hours tour and a huge amount of food, the price tag is more than worth it. Elsewhere in the city, for a truly authentic Dubai experience, grab a table at Arabian Tea House, an Emirati restaurant that's been serving locals since 1997. The original branch in Al Fahidi is like stepping back in time. Sit in the shade and enjoy the traditional seafood dishes — particularly the Machboos Robyan (prawns with spiced rice). And, for one of the best meals I ate in Dubai, head to Three By Eva. This Lebanese restaurant in Jumeriah was full of locals (always a good sign), catching up over a Sunday brunch. The restaurant was founded by Jordanian TV personality Eva Halasa, along with her daughters Emily and Lilian, with an aim to cook and share their favourite Arabic food. They converted a Jumeirah villa into their eatery, creating a chic yet relaxed space. I'd been told to order the feta creme brûlée and it would be remiss of me not to pass on this wisdom – you will not regret it. Every time I go to Dubai I'm on a quest to find the best houmous (the stuff you buy in the supermarket is so not it) and the bowl I had here has to be up there. The vine leaves and fattoush are also a must. At one with nature You've probably already heard of the infamous dune bashing tours beloved by tourists who flock to Dubai. If you've never hopped in a jeep and clung on for dear life as you crash, skid and yes, bash, your way through the desert, it's quite the experience. However, this comes with a caveat. Dune bashing is the leading cause of 'desertification' – environmental degradation, causing vegetation and wildlife to be lost. That's where Platinum Heritage 's tours come in. Platinum Heritage aims to offer visitors a more sustainable way of seeing Dubai's awe-inspiring sandscapes. I was up at the absolute crack of dawn to join their Falconry and Nature Safari, which started at an eye-watering 6am. However, a driver will pick you up from your hotel, which eased the pain a little. We made our way to the desert and climbed into our vintage open-top Land Rover. Cruising along the near-isolated desert roads as the sun comes up isn't something I'll forget in a hurry. Next up, we arrived at our little desert camp where we learnt all about (and I mean all about) various birds of prey, in particular the falcon, the national bird of the UAE. On to a camel ride (our guides assured us that the wellness and treatment of the camels was a top priority for the company), and a traditional Bedouin breakfast. Granted, I won't be swapping fava beans for a bacon sarnie long term, but ful medames is pretty delicious. Then it's back in the Land Rover for a conservation drive. A word of warning: your passionate guide will tell you, in great detail, about the flora and fauna around you. We saw oyrxes, gazelles and lizards. If that's your thing, go for it, but this is by no means a whistle stop of the desert. If you're into nature, the 595 Dhs price tag (around £125) will be worth it. From the desert to the mountains, Hatta, around 130km of south-east of central Dubai, is a stunning town. Once known for its historic fort, it's now a favourite for those who are after some adventure. You can go mountain biking or, my personal favourite, hire a kayak and row along the stunning Hatta Dam. The rugged landscape is almost other-worldly. Or, you could book onto a horseback ride with Hatta Horses, for a hack on an Arabian horse. Rides start at 50 Dhs for 30 minutes. Take to the water I was pretty apprehensive about our booking with Hero Boats — I'm not exactly a proficient sailor (and once had to get rescued after crashing a tiny motorboat, but that's a story for another day). Hero Boats offer you the chance to drive your own boat along Dubai's iconic coastline. At first, it's terrifying (they go pretty fast), but once you get the hang of it (it's sort of like a jet ski, sort of like a mini RIB) your inner speed demon will come out. @whatsgooduae Water babies, boat enthusiasts and straight-up thrill seekers, this one's for you. Take control and embrace your need for speed with @heroboattours self-driven boats. See a side of Dubai's coastline that you've never seen before and enjoy a morning catching waves on the Arabian Gulf 🌊 📌 Hero Boats Tours, Dubai Harbour. #dxb #uae #dubai🇦🇪 #travel #ocean #sea ♬ Dile Austin Millz Remix – Austin Millz The groups are small (there were just four of us, two per boat) and the guide was with us at all times, checking we were safe, following close behind — and was on hand to take those all-important pictures too. It's not for the faint-hearted — and the water can get surprisingly choppy — but if you fancy a bit of an adrenaline buzz, this is for you. We sailed in the shadow of the iconic Burj Al Arab, admiring one of the Royal Family's many, many residences as their helicopter took off overhead. If, however, you prefer to lounge by the sea rather than battle the waves, Byron Bathers is a laid-back beach club on the shores of the Palm with views of the city. The whole place has a really friendly, unpretentious vibe — the opposite of what you'd imagine from a Dubai beach club. There's a pool if you're not into having the sand between your toes, or there's waiter service to your sun lounger down by the beach. The food is delicious too, with a focus on sustainable seafood. We ate a feast which included tuna tartare, chilli and garlic prawns and tomato and feta salad. As beach clubs go, it's not too pricey either. Day passes start from 150 Dhs (around £35), which is fully redeemable on food and drink. Dubai's local produce If you think Dubai is all superficial tourist traps, head to The Ripe Market, a community-led concept first founded more than 10 years ago to support home-grown businesses. Every weekend from October to May you can head down to the market at Academy Park in Jumeirah and while away an afternoon picking up one-of-a-kind products — and eating some delicious food too. In the summer months (when temperatures can exceed 43C), the market moves indoors, at various locations across the city. @whatsgooduae The perfect spot for fresh food, handmade goods and, my personal favourite vitamin – D 🌞, The @ripemarket is simply the best way to spend a Sunday afternoon. With so much to see, eat and do, I simply love wandering around and soaking up the sun amongst small business owners and local food vendors. 🌻 Special shout out to @baofrienduae for kickstarting my bao obsession! 🥰 📌 The Ripe Market, Police Academy. #food #dubaifood #dubai #fyp #ripemarket #dxb #uae #dubai🇦🇪 ♬ Get Ready – SUPER-Hi & NEEKA It's free to get into, and very family-friendly, with shady areas to eat, a kid's playground and activity areas. I shopped 'til I dropped… or as much as my baggage allowance would let me, picking up bespoke accessories including a hand-made tote bag from La Maison Angelique (my favourite stall at the market), a pair of pyjamas and silk hair bobbles. Lunch was bao buns at BaoFriend (apparently the best in the UAE), washed down with coconut water straight out of the coconut. Traders come from all over the world: we spoke to the Slovakian co-founder of Camp's Kitchen, a husband and wife duo who started selling small batch hot sauce in lockdown, and a family from Lebanon, who run Unpair Me, a business selling odd, but perfectly matched, socks. The UAE's largest mosque Okay, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque isn't in Dubai, it's in Abu Dhabi, but at just over an hour's drive away, you shouldn't miss it. Built between 1994 and 2007, the UAE's largest mosque is big enough to accommodate over 40,100 worshippers and is one of the few open to non-Muslim visitors. The pristine white marble walls (it was made using 90,000 tonnes of the stuff) are decorated with floral designs, inlaid with semi-precious stones. Inside, you won't miss the chandeliers, the largest of which weighs around 11 tonnes and is made with Swarovski crystals and 40kg of 24-karat gold. Visitors can enter for free, except during prayer times. You will be expected to dress modestly — those not dressed appropriately will be asked to change into an abaya (for women) or kandoura (for men), which are handed out for free. The verdict on Dubai If you want the glam Insta brunches and sun-soaked beach clubs (and the city has plenty), Dubai has to be top of your list. But that's not all it has to offer. For me, Dubai is full of happy memories: it's family reunions, building dams in the mountains, eating houmous (and more houmous), and jumping into the pool on Christmas Day. The people who live and work here are passionate about the city they've chosen to call home – I've already booked my next trip. Got an early flight? I'm not a morning person, so an airport hotel means starting my holiday off well-rested, and less likely to fight someone for a cup of coffee. It also eases any pre-travel anxiety, especially as a solo traveller. I stayed at Premier Inn London Gatwick Airport (North Terminal). Convenience is the hotel's USP, as it's literally across the road from Departures. The staff were super friendly, and the bed was huge. Despite being so close to the airport, once in my room, you could hear a pin drop. Bliss. You can also add airport parking to your booking. Standard double rooms at Premier Inn London Gatwick Airport (North Terminal) start at £104. This article was originally published on 16 January 2025. Do you have a story to share?