You are sure to scratch yourself about whether it is in the middle of the thick Arabian Desert you are in, or in New York or Paris of London, when you see some of the high rise buildings here! This is an oasis in the desert, in terms of infrastructure development. This is known as Dubai to the rest of the world. Its pristine Arab name is Dubayy. Dubai is often called Dubai City to enable people to distinguish it from the emirate itself. It has such illustrious companions as Abu Dhabi and Sharjah as part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Dubai City is situated at the crossroads of the Emirates. Dubai City is one of the seven Emirates that are located at the mouth of the Arabian Gulf and make up the UAE. If there is one emirate that can claim to be the epitome of development and sophistication, it has to be Dubai City. Dubai City, as the proud capital of Dubai, symbolises the essence of this development. Though its wealth is derived primarily from oil, Dubai is a great example of how income generated from one resource –an exhaustible one at that –can be utilised prudently for the overall development of the nation. Dubai holiday packages will expose you to the fact that there is not one single sector that has been left behind in development. Real estate, construction, entertainment, IT, transport and education are just some of the areas in which the city has grown.

General Etiquette in Dubai City

It is a good idea to give some close attention to public behaviour and etiquette when someone from the west visits this part of the world. Although one of the more open and tolerant nations of the region, most public behaviour and etiquette have to be in accordance with Islamic jurisprudence, or the Shariat. Live-in relationships; adultery and homosexuality are strict nos.  As in the rest of the Emirates, drinking is strictly prohibited in Dubai City, except in select hotels. In this Islamic Emirate, women have to conform to set dress codes. They cannot wear clothes that expose some parts of the body, such as the top of the arms and legs. Sitting with legs pointing to the person with whom the interaction is being made; using the left hand to greet people or take things from them and taking photographs of people, especially women, without permission are considered the height of bad etiquette. In hotels, tipping does not have the importance it enjoys in western cultures. Having said this, Islamic law does not prohibit tipping. So, a small amount is fine. It pays to brush up one’s knowledge of these things on last minute holidays.

You can search for a holiday in Dubai City using the search facility on the top left of this page but we have also put together some special deals in selected accommodation.

Moevenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach

The Movenpick Hotel Jumeirah Beach is located in the heart of the chic Jumeirah Beach Residence area and is both close to Dubai Media City and connected to the beachfront. It is 30 minutes from Dubai International Airport and close to major districts. The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence is Dubai's only outdoor shopping experience by the beach, offering breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf and boasting world class retail outlets. Further, it is close to major shopping and business districts.

1. Departure Date: 13/04/2012		Price: £785.83
2. Departure Date: 21/04/2012		Price: £522.10

Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa

Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai is situated on a pristine stretch of private beach overlooking the Arabian Gulf. With 500 rooms, caters to every type of traveller. With 14 International restaurants and bars, the hotel offers guests the world on a plate. Caracalla, the hotel's Spa & Health Club is the ideal retreat for mind and body and soul. The pool and beach facilities are heaven for sun-bathers and joggers.

1. Departure Date: 09/02/2012

Price: £947.01

Le Meridien Dubai

Le Meridien Dubai is a five-star deluxe hotel built on two floors and surrounded by 38 acres of landscaped gardens. The hotel is elegantly furnished with a French accent that incorporates the individual character and flair of the local culture, making your stay a unique and pleasurable experience. Le Meridien Dubai is minutes away from the commercial districts and shopping centers and a short distance from Dubai International Airport. The hotel offers 383 stylish bedrooms including a choice of 19 suites. Other features include extensive conference and banqueting facilities, which can accommodate from 10 to 1200 people. Rates are based on double occupancy. Charges for extra adults may apply and will be due directly to the hotel.

1. Departure Date: 10/02/2012

Price: £675.29

Moevenpick Ibn Battuta Gate hotel

Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel is a five-star, Arabian themed hotel, adjacent to Ibn Battuta Mall. Guests in any of the 396 rooms and suites enjoy contemporary decor, with Arabian touches. 8 restaurants and bars offer an extensive range of dining, with Indian, Arabic, Italian and Chinese cuisine. The private beach of the Oceana Beach Club is just 10 minutes away and shuttles are organised by the hotel throughout the day.

1. Departure Date: 01/03/2012		Price: £522.38
2. Departure Date: 30/03/2012		Price: £581.82

Qamardeen Hotel

Situated in The Old Town, Downtown Dubai precinct with easy access from Sheikh Zayed Road via the Financial Centre, Qamardeen Hotel captures elements of the past within its contemporary and stylish interiors. A blend of old and new luxurious heritage fashioned to suit the needs of the modern guest. Free Internet, walking distance to Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall, nearby to DIFC, World Trade Centre, Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre, major shopping malls and beaches.

1. Departure Date: 30/03/2012

Price: £612.44

Flora Creek Deluxe Hotel Apartments

Facing the Dubai Creek & steps away from Deira City Centre, Flora Creek Deluxe Hotel offers luxury full service hotel operations and self catering facilities and is just 2km from Dubai Airport. These suites have separate living/dining areas as well as well-equipped kitchens. Guests of the Flora Creek can enjoy the hotel's Serenity Spa & Wellness Centre, as well as the on-site restaurant Olive Tree plus a coffee shop. Breakfast times are - 07:00 to 11:00.

1. Departure Date: 04/02/2012

Price: £397.75

Shangri La Hotel Dubai

Shangri-La Hotel Dubai, synonymous with luxury and comfort is the preferred business and social address in Dubai. This stunning hotel has 302 luxuriously well appointed guestrooms and suites, exclusive Horizon Club, 9 food and beverage outlets and extensive recreation facilities. The hotel is easily accessible to Dubai International Airport, the World Trade Centre and Dubai Convention Centre.

1. Departure Date: 01/03/2012

Price: £719.19

Amwaj Rotana, Jumeirah Beach - Dubai

Cast away in the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, Amwaj Rotana lies delicately in the pristine beauty of New Dubai with perfect views and endless sunshine. The hotel overlooks the famous Jumeirah Beach and is nestled amongst the lively 'Walk' in Jumeirah Beach Residence. This brand new hotel offers superb rooms and facilities with an excellent choice of restaurants and bars. There is a fully equipped fitness centre and swimming pool.

1. Departure Date: 17/02/2012

Price: £631.68