Dubai

Dubai is a city of superlatives, built fast and aimed high. The record-breaking Burj Khalifa anchors a downtown of gleaming towers, vast malls, and choreographed fountain shows, while the palm-shaped islands and luxury beach resorts line a coast of warm Gulf water. It makes an easy, polished introduction to the region, with excellent food from every corner of the world.

There is more history here than the skyline suggests. The old Deira and Bur Dubai districts, split by a saltwater creek plied by wooden abra boats, hold the spice and gold souks and a slower, more traditional pace. Just outside the city, the desert opens up for dune drives, camel encounters, and quiet nights under the stars, a striking contrast to the neon downtown.

The weather is the key planning factor. Winter, from about November to March, brings warm, sunny days ideal for the beach and outdoor exploring. Summer is another story, with fierce heat and high humidity that push most activity indoors, so schedule accordingly.