Hello Friends, I am back with my new blog on the most Glamorous City of UAE, ‘Dubai’! Dubai is possibly one of the most popular and desired holiday destinations for lakhs of people around the world. In this blog I will post about the Culture and Festivals of Dubai, Amazing things to do and see in Dubai, some interesting or unknown facts about Dubai and will also share my experience there. So let’s explore Dubai from the comfort of our homes!!
Introduction
Dubai is one of the most popular destination in the world. Home to the World’s largest Tower in the world, ‘Burj Khalifa‘, this global city is known for its Lavish Architecture, Incredible Coastlines and a Plethora of Tourist Attractions. Dubai has abundant opportunities when it comes to adventure activities like Desert Safaris , Skydiving , Reef and Wreck Diving, Kite Surfing, Wakeboarding, etc. Flaunting its glittering infrastructure amid the glorious Arabian desert, the city of Dubai was once known to be a barren land. Today, this man-made miracle is filled with Towering Skyscrapers, Luxurious Hotels, Shopping Malls and Restaurants.
Dubai is a place where rich people around the world come to spend their holidays in luxury and extravaganza. The Burj Khalifa, Dubai Shopping Mall, Desert Safari, Palm Island and so many more beautiful landmarks in Dubai, attract millions of tourists every year. The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March as during this time the Weather is cooler and pleasant than usual. Dubai has always been one of the Safest Destinations in the World. In July Dubai started a campaign ‘Ready When You Are’ as it gave a warm welcome to it’s first International Visitor to arrive in the city amid the Corona Virus Pandemic. Wearing masks and adhering to social distancing measures, the passengers were greeted on arrival by Dubai International Airport staff, who gave them welcome kits containing mementoes provided by Dubai Tourism as a token of appreciation for choosing Dubai as their safe destination of choice. Dubai, the most Populous City of UAE, will surely leave you dumbstruck due to it’s Architectural Marvel and Beautiful Coastlines.
Culture and Festivals
The Dubai Culture mainly revolves around the religion of Islam and Traditional Arab Culture. The amalgamation of Arabian, Islamic, Persian cultures has left its mark on various elements of Dubai. The diverse culture of Dubai is reflected in the Architecture, Cuisine, Customs and Traditions, Dance, Music, Sports and numerous other elements of the city.
Heavily influenced and inspired by Persian, Arabian, and Islamic architecture, the Architecture here reflects the Age-old Customs, Traditions, Lifestyle & the Rich Culture of Dubai. Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and Emirates Mall are the best examples of Architectural Marvel in Dubai. One of the the Specialities of Dubai is it’s Beautiful and Jaw-dropping Architectures! Dubai is a Paradise for all Food Lovers. The Food in Dubai is Simple and Full of Flavor which will surely satisfy your food cravings. The cuisine is a reflection of the diverse culture of UAE, augmented with a number of spices and ingredients such as dates, cloves, cardamom, cinnamon, saffron, etc. Some of the well known Dubai Cuisines include Shawarma, Harees, Kabsa, Maqluba, Chelo Kebab, Biryani which are very Delicious and Lip-smacking. In Dubai all kinds of foods are available like Indian, Chinese, Italian, etc and so you can have foods according to your Taste and Cravings!! The Sale of Alcoholic Beverages in Dubai is regulated. A Liquor Permit is required to purchase alcohol; however, alcohol is available in bars and restaurants within hotels. Also, Pork is strictly prohibited to Locals or Muslims as it is against their religion to consume Pork, but is sold only to Non-Muslims in designated area of Supermarkets and Airports. If you want to enjoy different local Arabic Cuisine, then Dubai is the most ideal destination to do so!
The Laws and Customs of Dubai and UAE are directly linked with Islamic Traditions. And there’s no better time to experience it than during Ramadan, the Islamic Holy Month. Followers of Ramadan fast from Dawn to Dusk and when the sun sets in, Muslims enjoy an Iftar Meal with Friends and Family. You can join in the many Iftar Buffets across the city to experience their Local Traditions. Some of the few things to Avoid in Dubai that are against their Laws are Drinking or being Drunk in Public, Cross-dressing, Possessing even a small amount of Drug, Public Display of Affection, Carrying of Pork in Public, Eating in Public during Ramadan, Dancing or Listening to Loud Music in Public and Taking Photos of someone without their consent. Dubai being a conservative community have strict Laws and so if you don’t want an Untimely Halt to your holiday, make sure you avoid doing things that I mentioned above as they are against the Dubai Laws.
The traditional Music and folk Dances in Dubai are a reflection of the Abundant Heritage of the entire United Arab Emirates (UAE). The celebration of the various social occasions and festivals in Dubai will not be complete without these traditional music and folk dances. The famous Folk Dances of Dubai are The Ayyalah, The Liwa and The Haban to name a few which are truly Eye-catching. Various Sports that are played in Dubai with great Enthusiasm and Passion are Football, Cricket, Water Sports, Motor Sports, Horse Racing, Tennis and Rugby which forms a big part of Weekend Local Culture in Dubai. Three Football teams Al Wasl FC, Shabab Al-Ahli Dubai FC and Al Nasr FC represent Dubai in the UAE Pro League. Dubai also hosts Dubai Tennis Championship, Dubai Desert Classic Golf Tournament and Dubai Horse Race World Cup all of which attracts Sports Stars from all over the World. The Dream11 Indian Premier League(IPL) 2020 is being held in UAE from 19th September to 10th October.
Few of the most Astounding and Intriguing Festivals take place in Dubai where almost everything is celebrated. These Glamorous Festivals attract lakhs of Tourists every year from all over the World. Few World-famous festivals celebrated in Dubai that are must visit when in Dubai are :-
Dubai Shopping Festival – It usually happens from January to February every year and is one of the most exciting festivals in Dubai. It includes unbelievable discounts in every store and every mall irrespective of how high-end the brand is! DSF provides an opportunity for anyone and everyone to go out and shop.
Dubai International Film Festival – Dubai International Film Festival is one of the biggest film festivals in Dubai and the Middle East as well. It is held at 3-4 posh locations around the city and attracts many interns, volunteers, viewers, cinephiles and celebrities from all around the world. It usually takes place in the month of December.
Dubai World Cup – Every year since 1996, Dubai hosts one of the world’s richest Horse Race, with a Prize Fund worth USD 10 Million. The race takes place at the Nad Al Sheba Racecourse in the presence of the worlds best Jockeys, Trainers and Horses. The state-of-the-art facilities and a superb track provide racegoers with a unique and amazing venue at the city’s largest social event. The event is annually held on the last Saturday of March.
EID – One of the most important religious festivals of UAE, Eid marks the end of the holy month of Ramadan when every Muslim observes fast. The day next to the evening when moon is seen in the sky is celebrated as Eid throughout the world, and UAE is not untouched. The cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi are perfect to take part in these festivities as there are a number of events organized to mark the occasion. There are many more Festivals which you can enjoy in Dubai like Dubai International Boat Show, Taste of Dubai which is the Unofficial Food Festival of Dubai, Dubai International Jazz Festival for all Music Lovers, Dhow Race, etc !
Best Hotels to Stay
1. 3 Star Hotel
Premier Inn Dubai International Airport Hotel – This Hotel is one of the highly rated 3 Star Hotels in Dubai. Located just opposite to the Dubai International Airport, the Premier Inn Hotel has all Covid-19 guidelines in place and so safety is not an issue. It provides all basic amenities like Free Parking, Free High Speed Internet(Wifi), Fitness Centre with Gym, Bar/Lounge, Billiards, Good Room Service, different rooms according to your affordability etc. which ensures a great stay here!
2. 4 Star Hotel
Hotel Regent Palace – This Hotel is a great place to stay because it provides you with various facilities like Free High Speed Wifi, Free Breakfast Buffet, Airport Transportation, Pool, Fitness Centre with Gym, Conference facilities, Concierge, Hot Bath, Restaurant, etc. I stayed here when I visited Dubai and the Staff there were very friendly and hospitable! It is located in the World Trade Center Road and is approx 6 Kms from Dubai International Airport.
3. 5 Star Hotel
Atlantis, the Palm – If you are looking for Luxury as well as Safety, there is no better 5 star Hotel to stay at than the Atlantis Hotel in Dubai. Located on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah Island and enjoys a private sandy beach, the 5-star Atlantis offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. It provides an underwater aquarium and complimentary access to the Aquaventure water park and the Lost Chambers Aquarium. Other Basic Amenities like Free WiFi, Mini Bar, Over Sized Spa, Swimming Pool, Gaming Zone, Four Lane Bowling Alley, Gym, ATM and Currency Exchange Service, etc are provided which makes your Stay Luxurious and Memorable!
Amazing Things to Do and See in Dubai
1. Burj Khalifa
When you think about Dubai, the first thing that ever strikes your mind is Burj Khalifa, isn’t? Well that’s because it is currently the World’s Tallest Tower and is also Dubai’s Landmark Building! Towering at a height of 2700 Feet, Burj Khalifa consists of 2 Observation Decks, 9 of the city’s best luxury hotels, Multiple Restaurants and also the World’s Tallest Performing Fountain that is the ‘Dubai Fountain’ which makes Burj Khalifa must-visit when in Dubai.
For most visitors, a trip to the observation deck on the 124th floor here is a must-do while in the city. The views across the city skyline from this bird’s-eye perspective are simply staggering and Eye-capturing. The observation deck experience includes a multimedia presentation on both Dubai and the building of the Burj Khalifa (completed in 2010) before a high-speed elevator whizzes you up to the observation deck for those 360-degree views out across the skyscrapers to the desert on one side and the ocean on the other. The views from here were just Enthralling and Heavenly and so Burj Khalifa should always be on top of Your Dubai Bucket list
2. Palm Jumeirah
The Palm Jumeirah is one of the Largest Man-made Island in the World and is very beautiful and unique. This Island resembles a palm tree with a circle when you take an overhead view of it. It was one of the first major tourism projects in the UAE and currently houses some of Dubai’s top tourist destinations like Atlantis, the Palm, Aquaventure Waterpark and the Lost Chambers Aquarium.
The 17 Fronds of the palm have Rows of Luxury Villas, and numerous Hotels and Resorts were built on the Crescent. The Trunk of the palm has a mixture of Retail stores, Apartments, and Hotels. The most picturesque zone of Palm Jumeirah are the Long Fronds and you can catch sight of it’s real beauty with an aerial view from the helicopter or aeroplane. It’s indeed a beautiful spot and an epitome of Dubai’s Architectural Success!
3. Dubai Creek
Dubai may be known for all things glam, but the city also has a rich culture to explore! Located in the heart of the city, this Saltwater Creek is the original site where the Bani Yas tribe established their first settlement. The waters at the Creek were vital for what used to be Dubai’s main forms of economy: Pearl Diving and Fishing. This Saltwater Creek is one of the major Port of UAE and divides the city into two parts and connects the trading port to the desert. The creek was developed with the intention of creating a custom and import duty-free trade and to make Dubai as a major hub for the merchants and traders worldwide to conduct trade activities.
If you want to explore Dubai Culture and Rich History, then this is an Ideal place to visit especially during Evening time. Witness the Lights and Music Shows, Floating and moving Dhows, Yachts, Boats and Vessels to get a glimpse of old Dubai during the trade times. A Delicious Meal and a Starry Waterfront is all you need to end your journey and trip on a good note!
4. Dubai Mall
When in Dubai you just cannot miss Shopping, can u? Dubai Mall is one of the World’s Largest Destination for Shopping, Leisure and Entertainment with an area of 5,00,000 Square Meters. It is also known as the ‘Home of Dubai Shopping Festival‘. With more than 1200 Stores, a large Walk-through Aquarium, a world-class Ice Rink, 14,000 Parking Spaces and more exciting experiences for shoppers, the mall was voted the Best Shopping Experience in the world by Grazia Magazine in 2010. Serving as the entryway to Burj Khalifa, there are unlimited options of shopping and eating. Other than that, the mall also offers a Gaming Zone and Cinema Complex thus packing all the leisurely activities under one roof. When in Dubai this Mall is a must visit for all Shopping Lovers especially during the Dubai Shopping Festival in January-February when there are Unbelievable Discounts and Offers for all!
5. Jumeirah Beach
Jumeirah Beach is one of the most popular and most visited public beaches in Dubai. The white sandy beach stretches along the coastal area of the city and has many large resorts and hotels close to its frontage area. The stunning views of Jumeirah Beach provide the much-needed respite from stress.
Lounging here provides a complete entertainment site and visitors will enjoy everything here. The sea shore features a host of restaurants and shopping zones close to it. For those who love the sun can get their suntan while others can relax on the sand envisioning the deep blue sea. For adventure buffs, there is the facility for various watersports like Jet Skiing, Kitesurfing and more which adds to the grace of the beautiful Beach. One of the most popular beaches in Dubai, Jumeirah is heavily crowded because of its affinity to many malls and stores on the shore. It provides a perfect escape and surely is one of the delightful experiences that you will have!
6. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
All nature lovers and adventure seekers grab this deal to explore one of the world’s largest and Stunning indoor aquarium. Located on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo houses over 33,000 marine life occupying 10 million litres of water within the tank. Over 300 Sharks and Rays live in this tank, including the largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks in the world.
Underwater Zoo brings its visitors up close with Penguins, Piranhas, Crabs, Water Rats, Sea Horses, Jellyfish and plenty more. You can also take a Glass-bottom Boat tour, have a mermaid makeover, get wet in a Snorkelling cage and even don an oxygen tank to go swimming with the sharks. The zoo portion of the facility has a surprising range of animals, including ‘King Croc’, weighing an incredible 750 kgs and measuring over 5 metres long. It is indeed Enthralling and Eye-Catching and so this should always be in Top of your Dubai Itinerary!
7. Miracle Garden
A world of floral wonder awaits you at Dubai Miracle Garden which is the world’s largest natural flower garden. The Garden is a heaven for those seeking Nature’s beauty in the city and it houses more than 45 Million Flowers and Plants. Marigolds, Petunia’s, Geraniums are the common ones.
There is a Replica of the stunning Burj Khalifa, Arcs, Tombs, Huts, Houses, and other structural exhibits all studded with colorful flowers. You can simply stroll through the passages or relax at the adorable cabanas or dine at some international food restaurants and kiosks. Walk down the Heart-shaped Pathway a popular spot for Instagrammers, or wander amid floral castles with illuminated nightscapes and full-size houses. There are plenty of attractions to see, with a huge variety of quirky and alternative arrangements. If you want to witness Nature up close, this is indeed a Paradise for Nature Lovers!!
8. Atlantis, The Palm
If you’re looking for a one-stop holiday destination, Atlantis, The Palm has it all. One of Dubai’s most visited locations, there’s no wonder this five-star Palm Island destination appears on so many Postcards, Holiday Selfies and Instagram Posts. You can expect endless entertainment with world-class Dining outlets, Unique Aquarium experiences and outstanding architectural feats at this world-famous luxury hotel. With a private sandy beach and 5-star amenities, Atlantis is the first ever resort to be built on the Palm Jumeirah Island in Dubai.
All the rooms at the property feature private balconies, flat-screen TVs, seating areas, minibars, and complimentary tea and coffee making facilities. Some of the rooms also come with private terraces and spa baths in the bathroom. There is a separate Swimming Pool for younger kids and a video game zone for teens. Providing unique features such as an underwater Aquarium and Swimming with Dolphin Opportunities, Palm Atlantis is surely one of the world’s most popular attraction destination for tourists. It is one of the most beautiful destinations in Dubai and so don’t forget to visit this fascinating Place!
9. Jumeirah Mosque
One of the most beautiful mosques in UAE with intricate detailing is worth a visit for everyone visiting Dubai. This Mosque is an excellent example of Islamic Architecture. Adopting an ‘Open Doors, Open Minds’ policy, the mosque welcomes visitors of all faiths to admire the surroundings and learn about Islam and the local culture. Its detailed architecture and design are even more glorified when lit up in the evening. It is also one of the most photographed mosques in the UAE.
The Jumeirah Mosque, which is large enough to hold up to 1,200 worshippers, was built entirely from white stone in the medieval Fatimid tradition, with towering twin minarets framing a large central dome. When it’s lit up at dusk, the intricate artistry and true beauty are highlighted. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding organizes a tour of the Mosque for a better understanding of facts and history related to the Mosque and it also conveys the message of Peace and Unity as said by Prophet. This beautiful Architectural Marvel of Dubai is a must visit if you want to know more about local Islamic Culture!
10. Dubai Dolphinarium
Located in the Creek Park, Dubai Dolphinarium gives you complete liberty to spend some rejuvenating time with the marvelous dolphins and seals. From a unique family entertainment zone to now being one of the most adored places in Dubai, this Dolphinarium offers you an incredible adventure with these water mammals.
Home to the majestic Black Sea bottlenose dolphins, Northern and Southern American fur seals, and exotic birds, the Dubai Dolphinarium is famous worldwide for its awe-inspiring and interactive shows. This indoor Dolphinarium is renowned for its world-class facilities where guests of different age groups can indulge in a variety of fun activities like swimming with dolphins, feeding exotic birds, enjoying thrilling 5D and 7D cinema experience, bouncing on a trampoline, and walking through a maze of mirrors. Apart from the Sea mammals, you can also find 20 different species of Birds from all around the World like the Cockatoos from Australia and Macaws from South America. At the Dubai Dolphinarium, you can also buy souvenirs and have a fun dining experience at the onsite restaurant. Whether Travelling Solo or with Family, Dubai Dolphinarium has something for all age groups and so it is a complete entertainment package!!
11. Bollywood Parks
Bollywood Parks Dubai is the ‘first theme park dedicated to the B-town’ in the world! Located at Dubai Parks and Resorts, this exciting theme park brings the vibrance of Indian cinema all the way to Dubai, in an ode to India’s prolific Bollywood industry. It is the perfect location to learn and experience what goes into making a Bollywood film and how the Indian movie industry works. Visitors can visit various remakes of famous Bollywood movie sets like Lagaan, have a 4D movie experience to the movie Krish, the Cinema Circle for dance workshops and more.
Your visit to Bollywood Parks Dubai would leave you spellbound with its action, comedy, romance, adventure, flavor, music, and emotions. Here there are five distinct zones wherein you can find everything from Indian foods to handicraft exhibits sprawling all over. There are thrilling rides, myriad of shopping options, and dine in choices for your complete entertainment. Three Bollywood Boulevard, Rustic Ravine, Bollywood Film Studios, and Mumbai Chowk are some of the central attractions of Bollywood Parks Dubai. This Park is a complete entertainment package and is a must visit if you are true bollywood fan!
12. Dubai Butterfly Garden
Situated at the the Dubai Miracle Garden, the Dubai Butterfly Garden is the world’s largest covered butterfly garden, housing 15 thousand butterflies and around 50 various species of butterflies all bearing different colours, features and shape. With its butterfly Museum, Educational Centre and Cinema, the Dubai Butterfly Garden provides a great opportunity for the visitors to learn more about the advancement of butterflies through each stage making it an ideal place to visit with kids.
This indoor garden has ten domes, each of these filled with a variety of Colourful and beautiful Butterflies, which add a unique dimension to the architectural richness of this place. These domes are also climate-controlled which allows the garden to be operational throughout the year. Interestingly, different kinds of nectar plants have also been planted in the Dubai butterfly garden. This not only adds to the beauty of the garden but also ensures that the butterflies remain in the best of their health as they feed upon the nectar. This fascinating destination is a must visit and is opened throughout the Year for visitors.
13. Dubai Desert Safari
Dubai, mainly renowned for its great infrastructure, is also known for its adventurous streak. At the heart of Dubai is still its desolated desert. And so, to enjoy the desert a bit more effectively, the city presents various Desert Safari options. The experience is one of its kind and worth every penny spent! Visitors can experience desert camping with a delicious Arabian dinner, belly dancers and other traditional performers. Day safaris hold you in for an adventure as you get to try out Dune Bashing, sandboarding, quad biking, camel rides and a lot more. All in all Desert Safari is one of a kind experience in Dubai and is like a paradise for al Adventure lovers!!
14. Kite Beach
Not just a beachgoers hub, but a regular spot for watersports enthusiasts, Kite Beach, is the newest beach in Dubai to have a lasting impression on visitors. Kite Beach is a local and tourists favourite beach destination with its clean sands, adventure and relaxing opportunities available at everyone’s disposal.
Kite surfing is something you can’t afford to miss if you are visiting this beach for the first time ever! You can find all the water sports equipment on the sand. There’s kite surfing, stand-up paddle boarding, and wakeboarding along with Parasailing, Windsurfing and Waterskis that are very thrilling to experience. If you are more of a sand lover than water activities, you can simply engage in beach sports such as volleyball or football. If still, that’s not what you want, help your child in building his small castle out of the sand. To add on more to your excitement, Kite Beach homes to beach volleyball games, bungee trampolines, climbing parks, etc. which are specifically meant for the entertainment of your children. There’s also a 14km Track which is a perfect spot for walking or jogging along the Coastline. All in all this is one of the most ideal destination in Dubai for respite from your daily hectic and bustling schedule!
The people of Dubai have converted desert into modern day oasis. Dubai has always been one of the most favored destinations by tourists all across the World. It boasts of some of the most spectacular Skyscrapers, Resorts, Malls and many more amazing things which everyone can enjoy! So it is very difficult to include everything in one blog and so I have divided my Dazzling Dubai Blog into 2 Parts. So hold on to your Breath and Stay tuned for my blog’s next part because there is more Exciting and Thrilling things yet to come about Dubai and till then enjoy the First Part of this Wonderful City!!
Hope you enjoyed the first part of Dazzling Dubai. Do Comment your favorite moment of this blog and share the blog with your Friends!!
ASportsGraphy 
Wel written… Keep it up.. Got to know so many things abt dubai
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Thank you!! 😀😀
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Amazing adventure well written its like a Geography all the details have been published.Good.
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Thank You!! Indeed Dubaii was an Amazing Adventure!
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,I felt as I was personally there so well written nd framed.In lockdown
this is the best way to travel.thx
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Thank you!!😀
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Superb knowledge bachhe…… Keep it up👍
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Thank youu!!😀😀
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Hi very nicely and briefly described dubai while reading your block visited dubai in dreams keep it up beta every time ur blogs are excellent
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Thank youu for your Positive words!!😀😀
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Indeed very well explained and lots of information regarding ,Dubai.Keep up the good work dear.
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Thank you!!😀😀
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Amazing post as always.. Dubai is soo wonderful 😱👌👌👌 I still can’t believe I’ve got to see so many tourist spots and activities and I’m really excited to pay a visit if am lucky enough haha… The content is very well written 😁😁✌️✌️
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Thank you so much Areesha! Indeed Dubai is amazing! 😀😀✨✌️
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Good,Nice writing.
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Thanks for this virtual trip. It took me to Dubai for real. Loving memories of Dubai trip flashed back . Very well written.
Waiting eagerly for the second part.
🙂
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Well written, memories recollected
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Thank youu!!😀😀
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Well written Ananth. Due for a visit again to relive memories and to see new attractions.
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Thank youu Mama!! Eager to visit again and Relive those wonderful memories with u all!!😀😀
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Very interesting and informative blog.. beautifully explained about dubai travel guide..
All the best Ananth…Keep up the good work…👍
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Thank you!!😀😀
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Very well written 😍😍
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Thank youu!!😀😀
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Ananth, well done my boy.. your blog literally take us there.. very useful for a person travelling to Dubai, keep going.. All the very best.
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Thank you for your encouraging words!!😀😀
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