Old Dubai vs New Dubai

Jumping into the fray

I still remember the day I arrived in Dubai — 15th February 2023. We took a taxi from the airport to our hotel, and the driver, a jovial man named Rashid, pointed out the sights. He won't tell you about the history, but you'll get a sense of the city. We passed by the World Trade Centre metro station, and I was struck by the contrast between old and new.

Old Dubai

So, let's start with the old. You'll find it in Bur Dubai, along the Creek. I walked along the creek, taking in the sights and sounds, and stopped for a snack at a small café on Al Fahidi Street — the shawarma cost just 10 AED. Look, the textures, the smells, the people — it's a different world. But, as I wandered, I stumbled upon the beautiful Jumeirah Mosque, which costs 20 AED to visit.

New Dubai

Here's the thing: New Dubai is all about excess. You'll find it in the Marina, with its towering skyscrapers and man-made islands. I visited The Palm, and took the monorail to the Atlantis hotel - the views from The View at The Palm are breathtaking. Honestly, it's a bit pricey, but you won't regret it. And, if you're feeling adventurous, you can take a Desert Safari for 250 AED.

Practicalities

I'd recommend taking the metro to get around - it's cheap, and efficient. You can get a day pass for 20 AED. So, plan your route, and you'll be golden. We used it to get to the Mall of the Emirates, where you can even ski for 150 AED. Look, it's not the Alps, but it's a fun experience.

Getting around

So, to get the most out of your trip, plan ahead. You can book a tour through Roamigo Trips, and they'll take care of the rest. We booked a private tour, and our guide, Amira, was knowledgeable and friendly. Honestly, it was worth every dirham — the tour cost 500 AED per person.