Discover the United Arab Emirates beyond the clichés of luxury?

The United Arab Emirates is a symbol of extravagance. It's the image we see constantly on social media: cappuccinos covered in gold, ultra-luxurious hotels and VIP beach clubs where a single entry can cost more than a return flight ticket. All of this does exist, but it's not the only way to discover Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Beneath this glittering façade lies another side to the Emirates, one that doesn't require an unlimited credit card. If you know where to look, it's entirely possible to explore the country on a budget while still enjoying its magic, culture and modern wonders. When we think of the United Arab Emirates, we immediately imagine 7-star hotels, luxury cars and oversized shopping centres. This image, although partly true, reflects only one facet of the country. In reality, it is not at all necessary to spend a fortune to fully enjoy the Emirates. The country is full of accessible, cultural, natural and memorable experiences.

Dubai: much more than luxury  

Dubai is often perceived as the capital of bling, yet many activities there are free or very affordable.  

• The picturesque Al Seef district is a picturesque neighbourhood along Dubai Creek, similar to the Deira district, combining traditional charm and modernity over 1.8 km. It is home to an old-style souk, picturesque alleys, restaurants and shops, offering an atmosphere reminiscent of old Dubai, perfect for a winter stroll.  

• Crossing Dubai Creek by abra: for just a few dirhams, you can cross the creek on a traditional boat. A simple, authentic experience that is very popular with locals.

• Public beaches such as JBR Beach or Kite Beach: clean, lively, with views of iconic landmarks, and free to access. 

The desert: an unforgettable adventure

The desert is an integral part of the soul of the Emirates. A buggy tour in the Dubai desert is one of the most popular experiences for visitors to this exotic location. There is no better way to discover the Rub al-Khali, one of the largest deserts in the world, and explore its dunes while escaping the hustle and bustle of this great city. Have you ever imagined yourself on a buggy tour? If so, here's an even better suggestion: a buggy excursion in the Dubai desert. This is an unimaginable experience where you will feel like an explorer as you cross the sand dunes and set off on a limitless adventure in an 800cc buggy that explores the valleys and peaks of this magnificent desert landscape.

Understanding beyond the clichés

‘Dubai is a country for the rich.’

First of all, Dubai is not a country. It is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is the tourist and economic capital of the UAE. The real capital is Abu Dhabi, which shares its name with the city and the emirate. As for the idea that Dubai is reserved for the rich, yes, there is a lot of wealth on display. But 80% of the emirate's population is made up of foreigners who do not live the glamorous lifestyle of influencers. As a result, you can find many hotels and activities that are accessible to travellers on a modest budget. Only 10 to 11% are of Emirati origin.

‘Dubai is artificial.’

I thought about this cliché before dismissing it completely. I think this idea comes from two facts: first, Dubai as it is today was mainly built in the last 50 years, and second, yes, Instagram and influencers.

Let's focus on the first point. Dubai is indeed a newly built city. So what? Should they remain stuck in their past forever and not invest in their future? If you think about it, every city is actually artificial. No one lives in the middle of nature in cities like Paris, Berlin, Rome or New York. Yes, these places have a rich history. But at the same time, nothing really new is happening there. We all know that the Eiffel Tower, the Colosseum and the Statue of Liberty are there to stay. In Dubai, on the other hand, everything is happening now, and it's moving fast.

For example, by 2040, Dubai plans to quadruple its beaches while dedicating 60% of its land area to nature reserves. There are major investments in the development of green energy, education, public transport, the space industry and health. Say what you will about Dubai, but you cannot deny its dynamism and ambition to be a builder of the future. Personally, I found this aspect of Dubai most inspiring. Everyone you talk to will tell you how quickly things are changing there. With every visit, something new is on the horizon.  

As for the second point explaining why some people find Dubai artificial: influencers... most of whom show off luxury cars, designer clothes and expensive hotels. Well, if you let Instagram be your window to the world, I would advise you to broaden your perspective. I always recommend starting a mindful journey by reading comprehensive articles or blogs about the places you plan to visit, including Dubai and the UAE.

‘Dubai is not democratic.’

The United Arab Emirates has never been a democracy. Nor has it ever wanted to be one. When it opened up to the world, mainly to Western culture, its goal was to diversify its economy from an oil-based to a service-based one, focusing mainly on tourism and finance. In terms of concrete results, it has done an excellent job in both areas. Time will tell how the region will evolve, but I appreciate the living example of a country that can prosper while maintaining a model of governance different from that of the West. So, while the UAE is not a democracy, I think that making this point to dismiss all the positive aspects of what they have achieved is a superficial approach.

Dubai Downtown

I'm not going to repeat what other travel blogs say by recommending places in this area that are already well known. All I'll say is that Dubai's city centre at night resembles Las Vegas. Where Las Vegas seduces with whispered temptations, Dubai impresses with its extravagance, like a vision of the future set amid the sand. It's quite a surreal feeling to admire Sheikh Zayed Road and the Burj Khalifa at sunset, then illuminated after dark, from the tall buildings that surround them. Fifty years ago, this huge 12-lane road was just a 2-lane road where camels and goats occasionally crossed. What adds to the almost otherworldly atmosphere is that all these skyscrapers stand proudly in the middle of a city otherwise composed of modestly sized buildings.  

Dubai Mall

Dubai's most famous shopping centre, and for good reason! It is the ultimate shopping and leisure destination. Located at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, it houses shops, restaurants and a wide range of entertainment and leisure facilities.  

As you can imagine, you can spend the whole day here, or even longer! Here, the word ‘excess’ takes on its full meaning.

It is a veritable shopping and leisure complex welcoming over 100 million visitors a year across a total area of over 1 million m², which, to give you an idea, is equivalent to 200 football pitches.  

Here is a non-exhaustive list of all the amusement parks located in the complex that you can try out during your visit:

• 1 aquarium and an underwater zoo

• 1 Reel Cinemas with 22 movie theatres

• 1 Olympic ice rink – Dubai Ice Rink  

• KidZania, a theme park for children aged 2 to 16

• 1 multi-sport complex located on the roof of the shopping centre – Zabeel Sports District

Some places are also worth a look. We recommend taking a stroll through the Dubai Mall to see or do some incredible things.

• See a real dinosaur skeleton, a Diplodocus called Dubai Dino, standing 7.6 metres tall. You'll find it on the ground floor. It is an authentic skeleton found in the United States in 2008.  

• Admire the replica of the world's most expensive car: a gold Lamborghini Aventador.  

• Take a photo of the indoor fountain. It is a 24-metre waterfall.

A visit to Dubai Mall is a must during your stay, but I advise you to plan your day carefully. You will be impressed by the size of this shopping centre.

Dubai Jumeirah and Palm

If you want to end your trip with a few days at the beach, I recommend the Jumeirah area in Dubai. The famous Palm Jumeirah is a few kilometres south by taxi and is one of my favourite places in the city. This stretch of beach in the city is as epic as it gets: you have the Burj al Arab on one side and, if you look the other way, you can see the world's largest Ferris wheel, ‘The AIN’, located in the Dubai Marina district.

Finally, you haven't really visited Dubai if you haven't enjoyed one of the many infinity pool experiences overlooking the city. Although the idea of infinity pools is rooted in French and American architecture, they have become a major attraction in Dubai due to the city's passion for luxury and architectural wonders. Dubai is home to some of the most spectacular infinity pools in the world, including the tallest and largest 360° pools. I chose to visit Cloud 22 at Atlantis The Royal, as it seemed to offer the most surreal view of all, and I was not disappointed. You don't need to stay at the hotel to enjoy the spectacular view from the infinity pool.

That said, travelling to Dubai is an exhilarating experience, offering a multitude of activities and attractions for all types of travellers. From architectural wonders such as the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah, to vibrant souks, desert excursions, delicious cuisine, luxury shopping centres and surreal swimming pools, there is always something to see and do.

Timeless Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a city that harmoniously combines cultural richness, architectural splendour and modern elegance. Less visited than Dubai, less flashy, but in my opinion, it is definitely worth a two or three-day stay. Renowned for its pristine beaches and iconic monuments, it is also the city where most of the Emirates' government offices and embassies are located.

Facts about Abu Dhabi  

• When the United Arab Emirates was formed in 1971, the union initially comprised six emirates (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah), with Ras Al Khaimah joining the union in 1972. From the outset, Abu Dhabi was designated as the capital. The governor of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, played a central role in the unification of the emirates. Known as the ‘Father of the Nation’, Sheikh Zayed was instrumental in negotiations with other leaders, particularly Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum of Dubai, to form the federation. In tribute to his leadership and vision, Abu Dhabi was chosen as the capital.

• Abu Dhabi is made up of more than 200 islands, offering a unique landscape where the desert meets the sea.

• The name ‘Abu Dhabi’ translates as ‘Father of the Gazelle’ in Arabic, in homage to the gazelle, an animal emblematic of the region.  

• Although Abu Dhabi is often overshadowed by its flashier neighbour, Dubai, it is actually the richest emirate, thanks to its vast oil reserves.

Must-see places in Abu Dhabi

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Arguably Abu Dhabi's most iconic landmark, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Its gleaming white domes, intricate floral mosaics and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet are simply breathtaking. Strolling through its peaceful courtyards and prayer halls is like entering a world of spiritual serenity. Be sure to visit at sunrise, when the mosque is beautifully reflected in the soft sunlight. I stayed there for at least two hours, and its beauty remains etched in my heart.

Presidential Palace of the United Arab Emirates (Qasr Al Watan)

Qasr Al Watan, the Presidential Palace of the United Arab Emirates, is much more than a political monument: it is a celebration of Arab heritage and craftsmanship. The grandeur of its Grand Hall, with its beautifully crafted domed ceilings and gilded details, is breathtaking. The palace also houses exhibitions on the history, governance and cultural traditions of the Emirates, offering an experience that is both aesthetic and educational.

In conclusion, you don't need a five-star budget to enjoy the United Arab Emirates. Although the country is famous for its luxury, it also offers incredible experiences without emptying your wallet. Strolling through historic neighbourhoods, relaxing on public beaches or discovering world-class culture at an affordable price are all options available to budget-conscious travellers. Whether you watch the Dubai Fountain show for free, admire the priceless collections at the Louvre Abu Dhabi for the price of lunch, or cross Dubai Creek by abra for a single dirham, the Emirates prove that adventure does not always have to come with a hefty price tag.