The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates, and it is the key place of worship for daily prayers. During Eid, it is visited by more than 41,000 people. The mosque is located in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the UAE.
The Architecture of the Mosque
It was constructed between 1996 and 2007 on 12 hectares of land excluding exterior landscaping and vehicle parking. The building is aligned in the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. Natural materials such as marble stone, gold, semi-precious stones, crystals and ceramics were used in the construction. The building has 1,096 amethyst-and-jasper-embedded columns, 82 white marble domes, reflective pools, gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers, an iconic prayer hall, and a courtyard featuring one of the largest marble mosaic artworks in the world. The mosque holds a Guinness World Record for the largest hand-woven carpet and also boasts one of the largest chandeliers in a mosque. It is interesting to look at the calligraphy encircling the hollows of its domes, etched with verses from the Quran and painted with gold leaf in An-Naskh lettering.
Founder of the Mosque
Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding father of the UAE, had the mosque built in the capital city Abu Dhabi to create a cultural haven that would unite the cultural diversity of the Islamic world with the historical and modern values of architecture and art. In 2004, Sheikh Zayed died and was buried in the courtyard of the mosque.
The Offices
Administrative offices offices are located in the west minarets. These offices also conduct educational cultural activities and visitor programs. In the northeast minaret is the library with classic books and publications addressing a range of Islamic subjects: sciences, civilisation, calligraphy, the arts, and coins, including some rare publications. The collection comprises material in a broad range of languages, including Arabic, English, French, Italian, Spanish, German, and Korean.
Daily Prayer
The mosque can accommodate over 40,000 worshipers, while the main prayer hall can hold over 7,000. There are two smaller prayer halls, with a capacity of 1,500 each, one of which is reserved for women’s prayer. The four minarets on the four corners of the courtyard rise about 107 m in height.
Best time to visit the Mosque .
At about dusk is the best time to visit the mosque because the fading sunlight bounces off the white facade to create a beautiful glow, and after the sunset, you can witness the majesty of the building as it becomes illuminated by lights. Nevertheless you will enjoy the visit regardless of what time you arrive. Free guided tours, in Arabic and English, are the best way to get the most from your visit. Dress code requires that shoulders and knees must be covered and shoes must be removed at the entry gate. Women are also asked to wear abayas which are provided free of charge.
This is the main museum in Dubai. It is located in the Al Fahidi Fort. It was built in 1787 and is the oldest existing building in Dubai. The museum was opened in 1971 by the Ruler of Dubai. Dubai Museum depicts the traditional way of life in the Emirate of Dubai. It houses local antiques as well as artifacts from African and Asian countries that traded historically with Dubai. It also has recent archeological discoveries that could be as old as 3000 BC. There are also several dioramas which shows the life in Dubai before oil was discovered.
Dubai Museum
The total area of the museum is 4,000 square meters. The Museum received over 1 million visitors in 2013. There is a model of a mosque, house and family in the museum. There are also depictions of desert life with a date farm, a camel, wild animals, and a Bedouin tent filled with jewellery, trinkets and objects from the daily life of Bedouins. Bedouins are Arabic-speaking nomadic peoples of the Middle Eastern deserts. Galleries recreate scenes from the Creek, traditional Arab houses, mosques, the souk, date farms and desert and marine life.
Realistic sounds and life-size videos guide the visitor to the museum. You can expect to spend one to two hours in the museum.
Inside Dubai Museum
Al Fahidi Fort
Al Fahidi Fort, the earliest building of UAE, was built of coral rock and mortar in several phases. The fort was built for political and residential use. By 1971, after 184 years of use the fort was in battered condition. Sheikh Rasheed Bin Saeed Al Maktoum renovated the fort and converted it into a museum for visitors. In 1995, another underground museum was built and added to the old fort.
The Al Fahidi Fort Gallery
The Al Fahidi Fort Gallery descending down a spiral staircase in the south-western tower of the citadel contains artifacts dating back up to 1960 before oil was discovered. Other wings of the museum feature various relics of trade and commerce in ancient Dubai and video footage telecast at the background together give you a feeling of being on a real souq (market) in ancient Dubai. After the souq, you will find a model mosque and a desert bearing the testimony of the harsh life of the Bedouins.
Al Fahidi Fort Dioramas
The largest wing of the museum dedicated to the seafarers showcases their importance in the social structure of Dubai. The technique of making a dhow is shown here. The seafarer diorama is a must-watch in the Dubai Museum.
The largest diorama of the museum is the Al Qusais Archaeological Site which reflects various stages of Dubai’s archaeological history. The relics from Jumeirah, Al Quasis and other sites date as early as back to 2000-1000 B.C. reflecting the glorious past of the Arab world. There is also a gift shop where you can find gift items and other souvenirs at surprisingly affordable prices.
Transport to Dubai Museum Al Fahidi Fort
You can take public buses to Dubai Museum through the Ghubaiba or Fahidi bus stations nearby or take a metro from the Ghubaiba or Fahidi stations located nearby. Rented cars or tours operators also provide transportation services.
Riverland Dubai is a shopping mall in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is the gateway to Dubai Parks & Resorts. A themed, fun, dining and retail destination which you can access without purchasing a ticket.
There are four different zones that give a fascinating glimpse into some of the greatest eras of the past – The French Village, Boardwalk, India Gate, and The Peninsula. These four vibrant districts form the dining, retail and entertainment destination and are free for all to visit, making it a must do in Dubai.
The Peninsula
This is the heart of Riverland Dubai. Surrounded by the river, you will be able to enjoy various festivals and concerts at the large outdoor venue. The 19th century architectural theme adds to the character of this piazza that connects the various districts of Riverland™ Dubai via impressive bridges. Head down to any of the licensed restaurants or bars here to round off your day.
India Gate
Enjoy a royal Asian welcome with musicians and acrobats at India Gate, where our impressive artistic sculpture will mesmerize you as you embark on a journey through India. Don’t know where to eat in Dubai? Tantalize your taste buds with a great mix of casual dining venues as well as street-style quick service eateries in the large urban piazza.
India Gate
Boardwalk
For parents looking for things to do in Dubai with kids, why not relive the thrill of early America in the 1950´s and walk through an urban street bustling with excitement and entertainment – from jugglers to live entertainment. Enjoy the lofty structures, palm trees, and glamorous neon signage all around you.
The French Village
The French Village
Stop by the medieval French town and soak in the historic architecture of Europe in the late 1600’s at The French Village. Towers and the water wheel will draw you in, while street performances, outdoor dining, and meandering alleyways takes you to a different world.
Riverland Dubai: Dining Options
There are several coffee shops and Mediterranean inspired restaurants providing a variety of food to suit your taste and budget. Some of them are:
The popular restaurants in Riverland’s Peninsula
ECCO Pizza and Pasta: It is famous for authentic Italian pasta cooked with natural ingredients and genuine recipes. The Irish Village: The second outlet of the famed Irish pub in Dubai, Irish Village is the only licensed restaurant in Riverland. Big Chef’s Café & Brasserie: It is a casual dining spot with international cuisine and friendly staff.
India Gate has a variety of restaurants featuring Middle Eastern and Asian delicacies.
Costa Coffee: An International handcrafted coffee house that also serves delicious salads, wraps, sandwiches and sweet treats. Al Mashowa: A traditional Emirati seafood restaurant with recipes that come from the past. Barbecue Delights: A casual dining restaurant that offers Pakistani, Afghani and North Indian cuisines. Bol Gappa: An Indian fusion restaurant that offers lip-smacking street food in a Bollywood-themed ambience. Haru Robatayaki: An authentic Japanese restaurant that specialises in the art of sushi, Teppanyaki, Robata and Sashimi. Wok Chi: A Chinese street food joint where you can customise your wok-tossed noodles. Shrimpy: A popular fast-food restaurant serving deep-friend golden shrimps cooked to perfection.
The Boardwalk also features some delicious dining options.
TGI Fridays: World famous American food and beverage outlet to savour burgers and drinks in a lively ambience. The Coffee Club: An international coffee house where you can have a delicious brunch and a perfect blend of coffee. Super Chix: Looking for a traditional fast food joint? Here they serve super chicken, hand-cut fries and delicious frozen custards. Tortilla: America’s favourite snacks, tacos and burritos are served here with a range of fresh fillings and toppings. Ella’s Creamery: Inspired by America’s 1950s & 1960’s ice cream parlours, Ella’s Creamery will recreate your joyful childhood memories with frozen treats. Fans of Archie comics will get a distinct Pop Tates vibe from this charming creamery. Fuzziwig’s Candy Factory: A perfect place to feast on chocolate treats, caramel apples, sundaes, coffee and lots and lots of candy! Galito’s: Offers the most delicious chicken from an African kitchen that is loved across the globe. Famous Dave’s: Barbecue lovers cannot resist the live-wood stoked BBQ with a custom blend of spices. 800 Degrees: Baked in an almond wood oven, 800 Degrees serves authentic Neapolitan Pizzeria cooked with ripest and freshest ingredients. Pascal Tepper: A French bakery with oven-fresh bread and high quality of hot and cold treats. Giraffe: A perfect fast-food option with an array of dishes including steaks, grills, burgers and healthy smoothies, salads and mocktails. The Bagel Bar: A coffee house to enjoy an excellent cup of coffee, bagels and sandwiches in a relaxed atmosphere. McDonald’s: World’s leading fast-food retailer, where you can grab a quick bite of yummy burgers, fries and other fast food. Olive Garden: Inspired by culinary traditions of Tuscany, this restaurant serves a blend of American-Italian cuisine with traditional Italian hospitality. Starbucks: World’s leading coffee house to celebrate the rich tradition of coffee in an exceptional environment.
The Burj Al Arab hotel is a 280m building, Standing on its own man-made island. It is connected to the mainland by a private curving bridge. Its facade is made in the shape of a sail of a ship. It is fifth tallest hotels in the world. Burj Al Arab stands on a reclaimed island that is 280 m from Jumeirah Beach and is connected to the mainland by a private curving bridge. It has a helipad near the roof, at a height of 210 m above ground.
It was described by a British journalist as a “seven-star” hotel. Its most expensive suits run upwards of $18,000. The hotel is equipped with a helipad for VIPs to use. It is often described as the number one attraction in Dubai.
Burj Al Arab luxury hotel
Burj Al Arab Rooms and suites
The Burj Al Arab holds only 28 double-story floors which accommodate 202 bedroom suites. The smallest suite occupies an area of 169 m2, the largest covers 780 m2. The Royal Suite is billed at US$24,000 per night. The Burj Al Arab is very popular with the Chinese market, which made up 25 percent of all bookings at the hotel in 2011 and 2012.
Burj Al Arab Skyview Bar
The gold elevator takes you up to Skyview Bar for an incredible view. Gold on 27 is a gold-themed bar that offers an incredible variety of flavours for all palates. It sets the standard for nightlife in Dubai. Element 79 is an alcohol-free sparkling grape drink with copious amounts of golden dust.
Burj Al Arab Hotel Interior
Burj Al Arab Ownership
The hotel is owned by Jumeirah Hotels and Resorts, which is an Emirati state-owned luxury hotel chain. The Jumeirah Group was created in 1997 and became part of the Dubai Holding in 2004, which is Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al-Maktoum’s personal corporate portfolio.
Two bedroom suite
Burj Al Arab’s great interiors
The interior of the Burj Al Arab is perhaps even more jaw-dropping than the exterior. Pushing the boundaries of color and decoration,the interiors dazzle with a sense of the theatrical in a space that doesn’t take itself too seriously.
The carpets are something to admire. Each one takes three months to make by hand. Walls are covered in silk that appears to change color depending on where you stand, with hand-stitched ladybirds embroidered in 24-carat gold.
Burj Al Arab’s Food & Beverage
Food & Beverage is a core pillar of Burj Al Arab. No other hotel in Dubai can compete with Jumeirah in rich dining experiences. There are six restaurants in the hotel. Al Muntaha which is 200 meters above the sea sits on a cantilever that extends 27 m from either side of the mast and is accessed by a panoramic elevator.
Al Mahara (“Oyster”), is accessed via a simulated submarine voyage. It features a large seawater aquarium, holding roughly 990,000 L of water. The 18 cm thick wall of the tank is made of acrylic glass in order to withstand the water pressure.
Bab Al Yam at the ground floor is good for breakfast, The food is served buffet-style, mainly European but also some Middle Eastern. You have splendid view of the ocean whether you sit inside or outside.
Burj Al Arab’s Talise Spa
Talise Spa is the perfect place after a long flight. Unlike most spas, the treatment rooms have big windows overlooking the ocean. If you like a dimly lit atmosphere you might find it too bright but they’ll draw the curtains at your request. There are also four swimming pools — both indoor and outdoor — including a pool only for women.
Souk is actually an Arabic word, which stands for the market or a place where any kind of goods are brought or exchanged. In the past Arabic shipping vessels that come from the Far East, China, Ceylon and India drop off their cargo brought from the places on to the docks. These cargoes would actually be bargained over in the souks which are usually located near the docks.
Now these souks have modernized and caved way to a multistory shopping malls which come with air-conditioning. You can get the latest gadgets and designer apparels but there are still ‘souks’ that have conserved their traditions in which you can find in Dubai. Although a lot of people may say that the souks in Dubai have lost their touch and even lost out to their Middle Eastern counterparts it is still a must visit to complete your holiday here in Dubai.
Featured Image : Photo by A.Savin (Wikimedia Commons · WikiPhotoSpace) – Own work, FAL, https://commons.wikimedia.org/w/index.php?curid=66732816
Your trip to Dubai can never be complete if you don’t visit the Dubai Museum. The museum is located in the Al Fahidi Fort which was built in 1799. This superb Fort is said to be the oldest architectural ‘tour de force’ in Dubai. The Fort was converted into Dubai Museum in 1970. You will get to see a rich collection of displays showcasing the cultural vibrancy of Dubai in the past. You will get to experience exhibitions that showcase Arab homes, mosques, pearl diving and trade here.
One of the main attractions of this museum is the exhibition that showcases artifacts, excavated graves in the Emirates from the 3rd millennium B.C.
Featured Image : Photo by Joi Ito – https://www.flickr.com/photos/joi/2086020608/, CC BY 2.0, https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?curid=36016613
The Burj Al Arab or also known as the Tower of the Arabs is a must visit. This luxury hotel is the second tallest building in Dubai that is used as a hotel after the Rose Tower. This stunning building actually stands on an artificial land out from Jumeirah beach. This structure which dominates the Dubai skyline was actually designed to symbolize Dubai’s urban progression and the design is said to resemble to that of a billowing sail.
The Burj Al Arab has 202 bedroom suites on 28 double storey floors. The smallest suite is about 169 square meters and the largest can go up to 780 square meters. This hotel is said to be one of the most expensive hotels in the world and the cost of staying in a suite is from $1,000 per night where as the Royal Suite which is the most expensive and go up to $28,000 a night.
Believe or not there are private reception desks on every floor and butlers that provide assistance to you anytime, anywhere by just a ring. Each Suite will provide you with the best television entertainment if you decide to just stay in one of the days during your visit to Dubai. It has the largest selection of Satellite Television Channels available in the Middle East and every Suite Features Its Own Laptop Notebook Computer, Fax Machine and Printer.
