In the summer, the temperatures rise to the point that most visitors prefer to stay inside, and that can be a great time for shopping in the city’s many air-conditioned, upscale malls.
Golf: for some time Dubai’s golf courses were a well-kept secret. Recently, however, the golf scene here has gained world-wide attention and Dubai has become a golfer’s paradise.
Horseback riding: the Middle East has long been associated with equestrian activities and Dubai is no exception. There are a number of good riding schools located around the city, where you can take lessons or ride along designated trails. Two popular centres are the Dubai Equestrian Centre and the Jebel Ali Equestrian Club.
Water sport: Dubai’s location on the shores of the Arabian Gulf makes it a popular destination for water sport enthusiasts. Jet-skiing, sailing and waterskiing are popular with the locals and visitors, with Jumeirah Beach being a favourite destination. Kite-surfing, paragliding and windsurfing are also gaining in popularity at Jumeirah.
Shopping: from traditional souqs to the sleek, air-conditioned malls, Dubai is a magnet for shoppers from around the world. At the city’s numerous markets, you can shop for bargains in carpets, traditional Bedouin crafts and gold jewellery.
The city’s mega-malls feature merchandise that is significantly cheaper than in most other countries – particularly designer clothing and electronics. Some of the most popular malls are: Al Ghurair, the Al Manal Centre, the Al Rais Shopping Mall, the Century Mall, Lulu Centre and the Warba Centre.
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