Dubai, Airport

Dubai is as famous as a holiday destination as it is for its airport. If you're in Dubai, then 'Dubai International Airport' is a great place to buy early presents or personal gifts. And if you are just transiting, you will never get bored with wandering through the many stores.

All types of merchandise are available; electronics, clothing, jewellery, food, drink and more! And all at reasonable prices, especially when compared to Europe and the West.The authorities make no secret of mentioning that the airport houses the largest Duty Free shopping mall in the world. From large superstores to smaller stalls in the walkways, the airport is full of consumer choices.

The only problem is navigation. Even though the design of the airport is pretty simple, being just one large hall, finding a store selling what you want is difficult. Say you want to buy a pair of sunglasses. You'll have to go through teh stores hunting for them! But maybe that's the point...to make the customer wander through all the shops.

As for the staff, they are very helpful and a smiling face is always close by to assist. The walkways are large and there are plenty of escalators and lifts situated all over the place. Transport from the airport to the city of Dubai is available easily and drive time into the city is only 15 minutes.

So if, on your next holiday, you are flying anywhere over the UAE, make a stop over at Dubai International Airport just to take a look! You will truly shop till you drop!

UPDATE 12/11/2002
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A bit about the city of Dubai. One thing which strikes you when you enter the city is the flashy looking buildings, which consist of hotels, office blocks and apartments. It really is hard to believe that such high quality buildings exist in the middle of nowhere, in a desert country! I mean where are the dunes and camels?

The centre of Dubai is dominated by the World Trade Centre of Dubai, which consists of two towers, built in a triangular fashion with tall spires on the top of each structure. Tower one is taller than the second by a few metres. In reality, only a few floors consist of 'World Trade', with all the other space being used up as a hotel, offices and expensive luxury apartments! Surrounding these towers are other hotels and business areas, including the six-star Fairmont.

Towards the coast is where the real beauty lies! Amazing beaches with soft white sand and crystal clear sea water. They also seem to be completely empty whenever you go due to the size of the coastline. Dotted along the coastline are some amazing hotels and malls too. The world renowned Jumeirah beach hotel, shaped like a giant wave and sailboat, as well as the world's most expensive hotel, the Burj al-Arab. How expensive? How does 15,000 dollars in the executive suite suit you!!!

If you are looking for dunes and camels, then you don't have to go too far out of the city to find them. So, plan your next stop over in Dubai, you won't regret it!