Futuristic skyscrapers and Bedouin villages, gigantic shopping centres and hundred-year-old souks. From sunrise to sunset, Dubai changes unrecognisably. The panorama is constantly evolving in this iconic city of the Third Millennium. The impossible has become a reality in the United Arab Emirates. From Bedouin tents to Burj Khalifa in the blink of an eye!

The skyscrapers of the desert

You can see it all from the lift that takes you to the top of the tallest skyscraper in the world; right in front of your eyes, the Dubai Fountain (which at night hosts a magical musical light show), the Dubai Mall - a hi-tech and designer shopping paradise with a huge tropical aquarium and fantastic hotel, the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel.  Move your eyes up to the horizon though, and you’ll find the desert, as far as the eye can see.

To find the roots of the city of skyscrapers you have to go along the Creek river. The Bastakiya district and the Al-Shindagha district take you back in time with their Arab-style buildings, the museum and the colourful fabric souk. The gold and spice markets are concentrated in Deira, the ancient commercial heart of the city. It's the perfect place to get a taste of Bedouin hospitality while sipping a cup of Gahwa-flavoured coffee served with sweet Bateel dates.

 

Are you dreaming of Dubai? Book your winter getaway on board MSC Fantasia now and treat yourself to one of many seven-night sailings in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the exclusive beach resort of Sir Bani Yas island in the United Arab Emirates, as well as Bahrain, Doha and Qatar. The cruise concludes with an overnight Dubai stay allowing you to explore all that the cosmopolitan city has to offer.