IF there's one holiday destination where you can live it up for a week or so it's Dubai – a city with glitz and glamour at every turn.
What was once a small fishing village is now a staggering metropolis of tall skyscrapers and exotic hangouts, that attracts celebs and stars alike.
But what exactly is it that makes Dubai so glamorous?
Incredible hotels
One of the first things that springs to mind is its amazing hotels. One of the most famous is the Disney-esque Atlantis The Palm, an exclusive spot on Palm Jumeirah with amazing views of the Arabian Gulf and a never-ending list of facilities, including free access to an underwater aquarium and a waterpark.
However it's the Burj al Arab that takes the crown for the most luxurious hotel in the world. It's the only seven-star hotel, whose main hall is higher than the Eiffel Tower.
The city isn't short on incredible places to stay, with The Address Jumeirah Beach Resort, The Bulgari Resort & Residences Dubai and the Jumeirah Al Qasr Hotel – set on the waterways of Madinat Jumeirah – all upping the glam factor.
Celebrity fans
Dubai also has the perfect backdrop for celebrities, who are drawn to its year-round sunshine and great beaches.
Abbey Clancy visited with husband Peter Crouch and their children this past Christmas and footballing superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is a regular.
World famous DJ David Guetta was recently snapped in the city, as was Tom Cruise and Will Smith – who is rumoured to have a holiday home in Dubai.
You may well spot celebs at some of the city's coolest beach clubs, including Nikki Beach and DRIFT Beach Dubai.
Record-breaking attractions
Come evening, the city's incredible skyline lights up, with the Burj Khalifa adding major 'wow' to the views.
At over 828 metres tall, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and has its own swanky restaurant near the top of the tower called At.Mosphere – a must-visit for the amazing views.
In the immediate vicinity of the tower is The Dubai Fountain, which has shows throughout the evening.
A stroll along the Dubai Marina is a great opportunity for a spot of yacht and celeb watching.
One of the biggest attractions are the artificial islands in the shape of a palm tree – The Palm, which mostly consists of hotels, shopping malls and luxury villas.
Shop till you drop
Dubai piles on the glitz when it comes to shopping, too. At The Dubai Mall you'll find everything from an aquarium to an Olympic-size ice skating rink, alongside designer shops and boutiques.
The only place in the UAE where you'll find a ski slope, Mall of the Emirates combines designer stores like Bulgari, Dior and Gucci with high street shops – and even has a 'Hands Free' service so you don't have to lug your shopping around. Instead, your bags are collected and delivered later anywhere in the mall.
Then there's the Gold Souk, where you'll find jewels, gems and necklaces glittering at every twist and turn.
Fancy restaurants
When it comes to eating out, Dubai has more extravagant restaurants than you can shake a stick at.
Marina Social, one of Michelin-starred British chef Jason Atherton's restaurants is a favourite with the cool crowd.
Enjoy a spot of Indian fine dining at Indego by Vineet and score a spot on the large outdoor terrace with incredible city and bay views.
We've already mentioned At.mosphere in the Burj Khalifa for a dinner experience that's made for Instagram, as is the amazing outdoor dining terrace at Armani/Amal, on the third floor of the Armani Hotel Dubai.
Pampered like a princess
A glam holiday in Dubai isn't complete without a spot of pampering and the city's spas cater well for guests, with glamorous interiors and 24-carat gold facials on the menu.
The Away Spa at W Dubai is like a party palace with hip music, sparkling walls – some with the addition of ‘calligraffiti’ – and incredible facilities ranging from treatment rooms, steam rooms and a sauna to an experiential shower and whirlpool.
Head to One&Only Royal Mirage on Jumeirah Beach where you can experience a traditional hammam.
This Arabian wellness ritual is a lavish interpretation of the Moroccan bath and involves resting on a heated marble slab as every inch of your body is scrubbed and cleaned by expert hands.
Dubai Holiday Deals
The Canvas Hotel Dubai MGallery By Sofitel – 5-night 5* winter escape – room-only basis, with Emirates flights from Heathrow on 02/11/21 (other dates available) from £542pp with Teletext Holidays
Dukes The Palm, a Royal Hideaway Hotel – 5-night 5* Palm Jumeirah experience – B&B basis, with Emirates flights from Heathrow on 09/11/21 (other dates available) from £719pp with Teletext Holidays
JA Ocean View Hotel – 5-night 5* winter sun break – B&B basis, with Emirates flights from Heathrow on 25/11/21, from £765pp with Teletext Holidays
Dubai is following a high standard of safety and hygiene measures, earning it the World Travel and Tourism Council’s Safe Travels stamp. This includes the Dubai Assured programme, where inspectors visit hotels, restaurants and tourist attractions every 15 days.
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