Luxury Vacation to Dubai

Advisor - Sarah Marr
Curated By

Sarah Marr

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  • United Arab Emirates (UAE)

  • Dubai

  • City Travel

  • International Travel

  • Luxury Travel

  • High-end

  • Local Culture

  • Insta-worthy

View of palm trees, blue sky and Burj Khalifa building in Dubai
Curator’s statement

Dubai was such an opulent city and unlike any place I had ever been before. Known for both luxury and adventure, Dubai is an amazing choice for your next vacation.

The Fora Difference

Book with Sarah to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.

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Killer perks

Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you

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Personalized recs

Customized travel planning for your style

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Insider knowledge

Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there

Where to stay in Dubai

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort & Spa

A fanciful desert oasis in the sand dunes, located 45 minutes outside of Dubai.

Fora Perks
  • $100 food / beverage credit.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade & extended check-in/out whenever possible.

Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton

Eclectic cozy Dubai hotel located in the Al Seef heritage district, opposite famous spice and gold souks.

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah

Excellent resort on the Palm Jumeirah with a private beach, plenty of pools, restaurants and wellness activities all in one place.

Fora Perks
  • $100 hotel / resort credit.

  • Breakfast daily.

  • Upgrade whenever possible.

Advisor - Sarah Marr

Unlock perks by contacting Sarah to book your trip.

Things to do in Dubai

Miracle garden with purple and pink flowers and sculptures in Dubai

A stay at Al Maha is all inclusive and the activities there are so special. My favorites were a sunset camel ride, falconry and dune bashing. I also enjoyed time at our private pool watching the wild gazelles graze in the desert. This was such a peaceful place away from the city with lots to do and great food. 

Shopping in the Souks in old Dubai. You can take a boat taxi across the creek to the souks and shop for spices and gold. Saffron and gold jewelry are the two things I picked up in the souks. 

Burj Khalifa top of the world tour is wonderful. You can feel the Burj swaying while taking in a beautiful view of the city from the 125th floor. Enjoy a cup of tea on the top floor and have your pictures taken by the professional photographer that is stationed there. 

Global Village is an amazing place to visit and a vacation to Dubai isn't complete without it. You can spend a whole evening there, taking in all of the sights and food. It's a great place to have dinner while you are strolling through all of the different "countries".

Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain light show. The Burj Khalifa light show is such a fun activity. It's quick (about thirty minutes long), and the music, fountains and lights are so fun to watch.

What would a vacation be without a little r&r? Lay on the beach in the Palm Islands. Relax away from the fast paced city for an afternoon on the beach. Enjoy a cocktail or a dip in the water. 

Dubai Miracle Garden is a beautiful display of flowers and plants with a view of the Dubai Frame. 

Visit the Jumeirah Mosque. This Mosque is beautiful and a great way to learn about Islam. You should make sure your knees and shoulders are covered and women should cover their hair.  

Al Fahidi Historical. The historical district of Dubai is so fascinating. It's a great place to walk around, pop in shops and learn about the history of Dubai.

Places to eat & drink in Dubai

Gold pot of tea and blue and white cup on a glass table in Dubai

The food at Al Maha is great, but you have to be staying there to eat. It's all included in your stay. In case you aren't staying there, here are other places to enjoy while on a vacation in Dubai.

Nusr-Et Steakhouse is a great dinner spot, especially if you like a show. "Salt Bae" who went viral years ago is the owner/head chef and often makes appearances there.  We were lucky and actually had him do his thing at our table. It's a place for celebrity spotting and delicious food. Reservation needed!

Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi is a great place for lunch. You can try traditional Emirati food and tea. 

Indego by Vineet is the best Indian food in Dubai. It is a whole experience with different courses and the food is presented beautifully. Reservations are a good idea here.

Trader Vic's for a tiki drink. Great Tiki drinks and pretty outdoor patio. 

Global Village was one of my favorite places to eat because there are so many options and you can get food from all over the world!

Buddha Bar Dubai is a great place for a cocktail.

Albaitalq Adeem is great for Emirati food in old Dubai - no reservation needed!

Advisor - Sarah Marr

Travel Advisor

Sarah Marr

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