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Visit Dubai: A Unique Blend of Old and New

on August 2, 2024
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Dubai is a gleaming gem of a city in the United Arab Emirates and is often most known and celebrated for its futuristic skyscrapers and modern luxurious lifestyle. But don’t let the looks deceive you – the contemporary city’s foundation is deeply rooted in history and tradition. Gate 1 Travel takes you through the heart of Dubai’s culture and introduces you to the old and the new in this eclectic and exciting city.

Bastakiya: History Meets Art

One of the key neighborhoods in Old Dubai is Bastakiya, a winding labyrinth renowned for its wind-tower architecture and narrow alleyways. This historic quarter provides a serene contrast to the big soaring skyscrapers that dominate the landscape. Wander through this district’s picturesque streets, visit the art galleries, dine in boutique cafes, and enjoy the beautiful old-world charm.

Al Fahidi Fort: Step into the Past

Al Fahidi Fort, dating back to the late 18th century, is a quintessential landmark in Old Dubai. Nestled amidst Bastakiya, the restored fort houses the Dubai Museum, offering a captivating glimpse into the city’s transformation from a humble fishing village to a global metropolis. Explore the exhibits to learn about the traditional Bedouin life, the history of pearl diving, and the growth of Dubai’s current iconic skyline. 

Sharjah: Embracing Emirati Culture

Right next door to Dubai the city of Sharjah stands as the cultural capital of the United Arab Emirates. It offers a glimpse into the traditional Emirati lifestyle, culture, and customs. Explore the bustling souks with spices and local crafts, or take in views of the harbor with its traditional dhow boats during a stroll along the Comiche. Passengers on the 8 Day Classic Dubai Escorted Tour will get a chance to witness for themselves the power of Sharjah’s commitment to preserving Emirati tradition amid the rapid pace of modernization.

Jumeirah Palm: Modern Marvels by the Sea

In stark contrast to the 18th century structures and historic traditions, Jumeirah Palm stands out as an engineering marvel unlike anything else in the world. This man-made island extends into the Arabian Gulf and is home to luxury hotels, fashion boutiques, and fine dining restaurants. Visitors can indulge in world-class amenities, unwind on pristine beaches, or embark on a sunset cruise to admire the city’s skyline in this opulent neighborhood that seeks to redefine coastal living.

Dubai Marina: A Skyline of the Future

The most iconic structures forming the ultra-modern skyline of Dubai are able to be found in the Dubai Marina. This bustling waterfront district is where cutting-edge architecture meets vibrant urban living.  Visit trendy cafes and designer shops and take in the views of the stunning skyscrapers illuminated against the night sky as you stroll along the promenades or sail the coastline in a dhow boat.

Dubai’s unique allure lies not only in the ultra-modern or in the cultural history of years gone by. The true magic of this city’s draw is in the perfect blend of both. Whether you’re a history buff, art aficionado, or looking for some luxury, Dubai will something to satisfy your tastes. Browse all of Gate 1 Travel’s Dubai packages and get ready to embark on a voyage through the past, present, and future of the United Arab Emirates. 

MediterraneanSmall Group Discoveries

Dubai and Oman: Cultural Gems with Immense Wealth

on June 19, 2019

Today we are bringing you to two of the most popular cities in the world for tourism: Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and a country, bigger than the United Arab Emirates but largely unknown to tourists: Oman. Sit back and enjoy as we take you on a tour through some of the most sought after travel locations of the present. Experience tradition, culture and immense riches while you enjoy your escorted tour through the Middle East with Discovery Tours.

In Dubai, you will tour and navigate the city that is world-famous for futuristic architecture and opulent buildings, hotels and skyscrapers. Dubai brilliantly shows off its mix of old and new to travelers. Visitors will see traditional houses and minarets against a backdrop of shiny glass high rises, talk about a collision of past and present! You will observe sites that you have only heard about including Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Palm Island and Dubai Creek. Abu Dhabi is a short ride down the coast of the Persian Gulf and offers a look into the capital of the United Arab Emirates. In Abu Dhabi you will visit the Falcon Hospital, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Emirates Palace and Louvre Abu Dhabi all while Gate 1 takes you effortlessly from location to location.

Oman welcomes you with open arms into a culturally rich country brimming with incredible experiences. Visit places including Jabreen Castle, Wahiba Sands Desert Camp and Ancient Muscat, the capital of Oman.

What UAE and Oman lack in similarities they make up for in sites to see and scenes to marvel at. Futuristic landscapes, intricate mosques and ever-changing sand dunes in the desert all await you in the Middle East with Gate 1 Travel. Just pack up your suitcase and come along with us. We will take care of all the details.

Dubai, the 5-Star City:
If you love opulence, luxury and hyper-modernity, look no further than Dubai, United Arab Emirates. One of the most futuristic cities in the world, you have truly never seen another city like Dubai. Incredible glass facades, sky-high hotels and immaculate beaches with blue waters all await you here. This city was once a tiny fishing village and Bedouin port until oil production shot this city into the stratospheres of wealth. If you would have come to visit Dubai just 100 years ago, you would have found yourself in a very different place.

Entering the old city is easy as journeying from one end of the Dubai Creek to the other. The old city includes the Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort, a realistic replica of a desert fort, and the souks, where you will explore the narrow lanes and tiny shops for excellent finds. The souks are the perfect place to look for souvenirs as well as a fun place to explore during free time. The new city includes the Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world, Burj Khalifa, the tallest skyscraper in the world with 160 habitable stories, the Dubai Fountain, with its delightful dancing waters with lights and music and a stop at the Burj Al Arab, the sail-shaped hotel that is a famous landmark of Dubai and boasts an astounding “7-star” rating. Take in the epitome of luxury and decadence that is Dubai and enjoy all of the entertainment it has to offer because there is no shortage of excitement in this bustling city.

Abu Dhabi, the City of Old and New:
Located about an hours drive along the coast from Dubai, is the slightly more conservative and traditional city of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. Dubai may be the more popular of the cities for tourists but Abu Dhabi is more politically significant and traditional. Dubai may be one of the most famous cities in the world but Abu Dhabi has plenty of things to see and is also ultra-modern. Abu Dhabi has a similar history to Dubai in that it became rich and developed within the last several decades because of oil discovery and is now unrecognizable from its former self.

Take a journey to the Falcon Hospital where you will visit with these intelligent birds and learn about the nurture and rescue efforts for the species. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is the largest mosque in the country and one of the largest places of worship in the entire world, housing up to 40,000 people! The mosque is stark white and looks beautiful during the day in the glow of the sun or when it is all lit up at night so charge up your camera no matter what time you stop by. Take in the art world at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the first universal museum of the Arab world and enjoy a photo-stop at the Emirates Palace hotel, a very expensive, 5-star hotel that glows perfectly in the night.

Make your way to the ethereal “Garden City” of Al Ain, United Arab Emirates, located near the Omani border. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes several oasis areas, including Al Ain Oasis and Al Jimi Oasis, and archaeological forts, including Al Jahill Fort and Al Qattara Fort. The several water sources in the area mean there is much biodiversity to be found. There are also plenty of green public spaces for visitors and locals to appreciate.

Oman, Culturally Rich Oasis:
It may not be the first country on your bucket list or even one you know much about but Oman is a true “can’t miss” oasis. Referring to Oman as an oasis has two different meanings. The landscape of Oman contains a majority of desert with incredible cities popping up along the way, making these areas much like mini-oases in the middle of the dry, arid terrain. It also refers to the political oasis that Oman has become. Some of Oman’s neighbors have negative reputations in the US due to acts of violence and terrorism but the country has remained largely unaffected. Oman welcomes tourists to its country happily and with friendly faces and beautiful settings. Gate 1 Travel will navigate you around this land and take you to the must see cities and spots in this alluring country.

Jabreen:
This Omani landmark is located in the northeast part of the country and is located on your route. The Jabreen Castle was built in the 1600s as an homage to the grand European palaces of the time. The castle was constructed by the same man who expelled the Portuguese from the area in 1650, Imam Bel’arab bin Sultan Al Yarubi. Colorful paintings, impressive ceilings and intricate carvings all decorate this dreamy building. Continue on to Balha, most famous for its ancient fort with towers of unbaked bricks. This UNSECO Heritage Site is located at the foot of the Jebel Akhdar highlands and is adjacent to the Friday Mosque with decoratively sculpted prayer niche.

Wahiba Sands Desert Camp:
The wilderness of the Middle East welcomes you into its ever-changing landscape in the deserts of Oman. You will stay overnight here and in the midst of the desert sands. Your hotel is comfortable and has every accommodation you could need while you sit back and relax. Perhaps decide on watching the sunset under the stars and view the rise and fall of the red and white seas of sand that can rise and fall to over 650 feet. A perfect way to end the day.

Muscat:
The capital of Oman and one of the oldest cities in the Middle East is located about a 2 hours drive from the Wahiba Sands. This historic capital sits on the Gulf of Oman and is surrounded by the neighboring desert and mountains. Muscat will capture your heart from the beginning with its incredible views, beautiful waters and pristine sites. This city is also extremely safe and clean so you can enjoy an evening stroll without worry. With both Arab and Islam influences, Muscat has a unique culture that is reflected in the friendly and helpful nature of its residents. Visit the Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque, one of the most ornate and decorated mosques in the world. Journey to the Muttrah Quarter, a section of the city that evokes a medieval charm. Here you will find winding streets and ancient buildings while sandalwood scents fill the air around the souks.

Explore one of the most popular areas in travel today with Gate 1. We will take care of all the details and you will enjoy an unforgettable trip to Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Oman. Explore Dubai & Oman and live the experiences that you have could have only imagined on this memorable tour through the Arabian Peninsula.

Please Note: Sightseeing varies per itinerary.

#G1PhotoFriday

The Warm Setting of Dubai, United Arab Emirates

on April 13, 2018

Dubai is an ultra-modern city that is famous for luxury shopping, excellent nightlife, brand new skyscrapers and its desert backdrop. Dubai is the capital of the United Arab Emirates, or UAE, and is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf. Dubai has an endless itinerary of things to do and some of them include the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Palm resort, Dubai Marina and the Burj Al Arab, pictured.

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This week’s #g1photofriday was submitted by user @photosbyjessicag using the hashtag #gate1travel. This crystal clear view was taken in Dubai, United Arab Emirates of the Burj Al Arab by the beach. Be sure to tag your photos on social media with #gate1travel or #g1photofriday to be featured. Check out Gate 1 Travel’s Dubai trips here!

MediterraneanTravel Tips

The Perks of Work: Employee Travel Testimonial – Dubai & Abu Dhabi

on March 29, 2018

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are hugely popular travel locations with rich histories, stunning cultures, beautiful buildings and friendly people. These cities are filled with brilliant architecture and majestic scenery built in a desert landscape. The area offers everything from high-end shopping, luxury hotels, incredible restaurants and plenty of adventures to keep you busy. We caught up with Lakiya, a Gate 1 Travel employee, who recently enjoyed a trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and we got the inside scoop on her trip.

Why did you choose this trip and what had you heard about these places that made you decide on it? 
I have 2 brothers that are Muslim. They speak highly about dubai_lakiya2the religion and I was intrigued to say the least. I wanted to know more about the religion and how it’s practiced in Dubai vs. how the religion is practiced here in the states. In addition to wanting to know more about the religion, I was told that they were very strict and that everything was bigger and better in Dubai; I needed to see this for myself.

Dubai & Abu Dhabi are becoming some of the most popular international travel destinations, how was that reflected in your trip?
There were several tour buses and various companies. Some places were very crowded like the Grand Mosque in dubai_lakiya6Abu Dhabi, the malls, and other tourist locations. There was a lot traffic in Dubai and it almost seemed as if the city never slept. However, the restaurants weren’t overcrowded and the bars/lounges housed a comfortable crowd.

What were of the highlights of your trip?
The highlight of my trip was the Desert Safari! Dune driving was a lot fun and the scenery was to die for! We were able to enjoy a traditional dinner at the camp site that included every aspect of their culture. We enjoyed watching the Falcon show, riding camels, getting henna tattoos, dressing in garbs and even enjoyed free hookah (Shisha).

dubai_lakiya5How was the shopping and did you visit anywhere specifically great for shopping? 
We visited the Dubai Mall. I wish we had more time to visit the Mall of the Emirates. The Dubai Mall had every store that you could imagine. The malls stayed open until midnight, which was surprising to me, I’m not use to malls staying open that late in the states. The souks were awesome too! It was fun to negotiate prices and talk the sellers down to a lower price.

What travel tips would you give to someone preparing to go on this trip?
Do your own research! It’s not as strict as everyone told me it was. So I wasn’t prepared to hang in lounges or let loose. All of my outfits were pretty loose fitting or conservative. I had to buy clothing to fit it when we decided to enjoy the nightlife that I didn’t think they had. Nightlife in Dubai was awesome!dubai_lakiya3

How did you prepare for this trip?
I prepared by packing loose fitting/conservative attire.

Would you go back?
Absolutely! I plan on going back in for Expo 2020!

How was your tour manager and what were they like? In what ways did they effect your trip? My tour manager was absolutely FANTASTIC! She did everything from providing history about the 7 Emirates, to providing over-garments dubai_lakiya4for the visit to the mosque, to providing converter boxes for us to charge our electronics. She made reservations for us to have lunch at restaurants on our leisure time and even told us about all of the lounges to party at on Thursday nights! She was very knowledgeable, extremely patient and I honestly don’t think that the experience would have been the same without her.

Would you recommend this trip to family/friends?
Most definitely! …………I already have! See you in 2020, Dubai!

 

 

 

 

MediterraneanSmall Group Discoveries

Oh My, Oman! 9 Intriguing Facts About a Little Known Nation.

on December 20, 2016

The beauty of exploring Oman in a small group is the opportunity it affords to really get to know a place. Here’s just a sample of the kinds of things you’ll learn about fascinating corner of Arabia:

  • Several cities in Oman were major stops along the Incense Route between the 7th and 2nd centuries BC. The route stretched between the Mediterranean and India and witnessed the trade of frankincense and myrrh, Indian spices, precious stones, pearls, silk, rare bird feathers and gold.
  • The mighty fortresses of Oman, beautifully restored to their former glory, once defended the nation from marauders. In all, 500 edifices still stand throughout the small country.
  • Oman’s colorful and bustling souks are a richly textured pastiche of perfume, livestock, freshly plucked dates, silver jewelry, and khanjars, the silver daggers that have long symbolized manhood here.
  • Muscat’s Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque is an enormous testament to the kind and giving Islamic faith. Its dazzling expanse of white marble is accented with wooden panels and fantastic stain-glass windows. Inside, its central carpet covers 45,000 square feet and its chandelier measures 46 feet tall!
  • The Portuguese ruled Oman from Muscat for 150 years. Two 16th-century forts – Al Jalali and Al Mirani – stand like guardians on either side of the Sultan’s Palace, adorned in turquoise and gold.
  • Muscat’s souk in the Muttrah district is called Al Dhalam, which means “darkness” in Arabic. This marketplace, one of the oldest in the Arab world, got its name from the constant shadows cast by its crowded stalls and narrow lanes. It can get so dark here even during the day, shoppers need lamps to find their destinations.
  • Oman enjoyed its own days as an imperial power. In the late 17th century, it actively vied for control of the region with Portugal and Britain. By the 19th century, its territories reached as far as Iran and Pakistan, and it relocated its capital to Zanzibar, the island off of today’s Tanzanian coast.
  • The tower of Nizwa Fort boasts many architectural deceptions and strategic secrets. Hidden shafts and false doors were meant to confuse anyone who breached the fort’s walls. A twisting narrow staircase led to the tower’s ramparts, but a heavy wooden door studded with spikes prevented entry once infiltrators reached that last step. Additionally, shafts above these doors allowed the defenders to pour boiling oil or the sticky syrup of dates onto their enemies.
  • Though football and basketball have recently entered Oman’s culture, traditional sports include horse racing, camel racing, bull fighting, falconry and the racing of dhows, the narrow wooden boats that have plied the country’s coast for centuries.

Travel to Dubai & Oman with Gate 1 Travel today!

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MediterraneanSmall Group Discoveries

Dubai & Abu Dhabi

on December 15, 2016

Shimmering Cities Rising from Desert Sands

It’s hard to believe that the ostentatious cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi were little more than backwaters on the Arabian Peninsula as little as 50 years ago. These humble places were sustained by centuries-old pearl-fishing and boat-building and dotted with goats, sheep, and date trees. Pearl divers took to the waters in handmade dhows, small wooden boats that still bob along the coast today.

Then oil was discovered in the mid-20th century – and the region’s extreme makeover began, financed by huge fortunes that grew quickly. With newfound wealth under their sands, the once-disparate regions of Dubai and Abu Dhabi joined together with Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm al-Quwain to form the United Arab Emirates. They named Abu Dhabi their capital. And the Arabian Peninsula has never been the same.

Dubai: an Intoxicating Blend of Modern and Ancient

You have to see Dubai to believe it. In this city of extremes, the world’s tallest building scrapes the sky, the world’s largest shopping mall spreads 1,200 shops at its feet, and a manmade island chain off its coast resembles a palm tree. In one afternoon in this desert city, you can see sharks at a huge aquarium, and step out of the heat to skate on an Olympic-sized ice rink or take to the snowy slopes at “Ski Dubai.” Many call it the most contradictory and diverse city on earth. Only 17% of Dubai’s people are true Emiratis and, amidst all this excess, the state religion is Islam, renowned for its tenets of modesty and reverence above all material possessions.

In your small group, you can contrast the futuristic metropolis with the traditional market of Old Dubai, where narrow lanes lead past shops and stalls brimming with aromatic spices, precious metals and stones and other treasures. Here, you can browse the world famous gold souk, a maze of covered streets and alleyways lined with gold. Speaking of old Dubai, you can get a glimpse of history in the Dubai Museum, located in the Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest standing building in the city. It’s a remarkable foray into the days before the oil boom. Delve into Emirati culture and tradition with a local during a special discussion. And embark an authentic abra, or water taxi, for a scenic ride along Dubai Creek, passing traditional low-slung dwellings and svelte minarets pointing skyward.

From Old World to new communities, you’ll venture onto the Palm Jumeirah archipelago. This island chain juts into the gulf, a spectacular sight for two reasons: it is entirely manmade, and it is laid out in the shape of a palm tree. The “trunk” of the tree serves as a causeway and eight fronds fan out on either side. Once they were completed, the islands doubled the length of Dubai’s coastline. Burj Al Arab also complements the oceanside setting of Dubai. This magnificent 7-star hotel – built in the shape of a dhow’s billowing sail – overlooks the gulf from an artificial island. Its 575-foot atrium lobby is the tallest in the world. Rooms start at around $1,700 per night … needless to say, it’s not a property that we at Discovery Tours have been able to secure for our travelers! Visitors are welcome to stroll into the lobby and take in its grand magnificence.

Of all Dubai’s magnificent sights, the most impressive is the 2,723-foot Burj Khalifa. Record after record was broken with its completion: tallest building, fastest elevator (40 mph), the most floors (160), highest outdoor observation deck (124th floor), highest restaurant (122nd floor), tallest structure to offer residential space, and more. At its feet, the Dubai Mall is the largest in the world. There are 1,200 storefront and they lured 54 million shoppers in 2011 – more than the entire city of New York! It features designer label stores, high-end boutiques, cinema, an Olympic-size ice rink, and a theme park. You’ll have time to explore this massive complex on your own if you wish.

Abu Dhabi: The UAE’s Thrilling Capital

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is a beautiful city of culture in its own right and a glorious desert metropolis down the coast from Dubai. Behind its glimmering façade lies a shining cultural beacon reminiscent of Islam’s golden age – the opulent, white-marble Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque boasts 82 domes, each topped with 24-carat gold, 1,000 columns, and a 40,000-capacity courtyard. Contrast this ten-year old building with Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone structure, Al-Husn Palace, the “white fort” originally built in 1761 … to the resplendent Zayed House, home of Sheikh Zayed, “Father of the Nation” … and to the second most expensive hotel ever built, the Emirate Palace (it cost $3 billion to construct over three years).

For a taste of local traditions, we’ve arranged a cruise through the city on a two-level dhow boat, giving you a unique perspective on this captivating city. More traditions live on at the Heritage Village, a fascinating open-air museum that depicts life before the oil boom, when women wove textiles, embroidered, and painted henna. You’ll look to the future at Manarat Al Saadiyat, an exhibition center profiling ongoing and projected developments in the city. And see the future at work at Masdar, the world’s first carbon-neutral, zero-waste city.

Witness the Giants of the UAE in a Small Group

The United Arab Emirates pulses with cultural and architectural treasures you have to see to believe. Dubai and Abu Dhabi only tell part of the story of this economic powerhouse. A visit here offers a mesmerizing blend of cosmopolitan flair and traditional Arab ways, all polished with a futuristic sheen. Between snacks of lamb kebabs and hummus in the tiny shawarma diners of the Deira district, or perhaps after relaxing in a shisha boutique with a bubbling water pipe, you’ll find lots to experience here.