Originally a small fishing settlement, Dubai was taken over around 1830 by a branch of the Bani Yas tribe from the Liwa oasis - today in the Abu Dhabi Emirate. This branch was headed by the Maktoum family who still rule the Emirate. Traditional activities included the herding of goats and sheep, cultivating dates, fishing and pearling. Dubai, today, offers the visitor a refreshing synthesis of the traditional and the modern.

As a tourist destination, Dubai could be said to have it all - sun, sea, long stretches of sandy beaches, a temperate climate for the major part of the year, shopping to rival some of the internationally acclaimed market places and an excellent range of restaurants and night spots. What is more, the city is a haven of safety with warm friendly people.

Dubai is a thoroughly modern and progressive city, which still retains much of its original character, from the ancient Dhows still crowding the Creek to the wind-towers (early air-conditioning) of the merchant's houses in the Bastakia district. During the Tour you will visit many of the city's contrasts of old and new. A cruise along the creek in an Abra, an ancient water taxi still used to ferry passengers, passes the many Dhows and modern skyscrapers which define Dubai's skyline. A visit to the Spice and Gold Souks then gives an insight into Dubai's growth as a major trade centre. A glimpse of the opulent Sheikh's palaces and a visit to the Museum, housed in a 150 year old fort, complete the City Tour.

>>1. Sporty Dubai >>2. Desert Safari & Day Trips >>3. Family Entertainment

               Exotic Destinations