Dubai is consistently one of the most famous cities in the world, with nearly 16 million visitors in 2018. It is also one of the most well-documented cities in the world. It is recognized as a top social media influence center. So, what other surprises are in store for this famous destination with the vast number of visitors and such accolades?
In 2016, I studied abroad in Dubai for an entire academic year. Of course, a lot has changed since then, but luckily, my local connections have not been affected. Four years later, I still have friends who are happy to help me discover many parts of Dubai that I have not experienced before. I recently spent three months working remotely there and learned that the city has several more tricks.
Here are some of the underrated gems I’ve found.
Love Lake
Whether traveling with your loved one or looking for a fun friend activity, Love Lake is a lesser-known place worth visiting. Located on Al Qudra Road, 45 minutes from downtown Dubai, this place offers a tremendous outdoor breath, especially between October and April, as it gets too hot, and several relaxing activities, like walking trails, barbecuing, playing outdoor games, and bird watching.
Lake Love is also part of the Al Marmoom Desert Reserve and a seasonal landing point for migratory birds such as flamingos, swans, and Egyptian geese. As a wildlife advocate and an admirer of Steve Irwin, finding a natural animal experience in Dubai is an absolute joy. It’s a great place to relax when you want to – you can sit back and calmly watch the birds fly around the area, the beautiful carp swirl by the water, and hopefully grab some bread.
Dubai has strict rules for drone flights, but if you get permission or just look it up on Google Earth, you’ll discover the surprising reason for its name: Love Lake. The entire lake is shaped like two giant, interconnected hearts.
Bab al-Shams Desert Resort
Another hidden desert oasis, Bab al-Shams, is a destination worth visiting to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Couples and families can stay in one of the 113 traditional Arabic-style rooms. However, as a solo budget traveler, I found a great option.
Visitors can enjoy Bab Al Shams’ 360° Natural brunch picnic by taking a taxi from Dubai Marina for around $30 and paying a fee of $50. The picnic includes a large umbrella for shade, classic picnic baskets and utensils, and pillows to sit on a low-floor table.
Mosquitoes and flies can’t survive in the desert, so you can enjoy an outdoor meal in peace and, if lucky, even catch a glimpse of a gazelle or Arabian oryx. Many people come to Dubai for the skyscrapers and sparkling scenery, but its deserts have fewer crowds and more history.
Queen Elizabeth 2
Dubai has a long-standing relationship with the United Kingdom was once protected by the empire thanks to the 1820 Maritime Treaty. On November 26, 2008, Queen Elizabeth 2 completed its final voyage. It has since been docked near the Dubai Gold Market at Port Rashid. One of the most exclusive hotels in Dubai, it was completely renovated in 2017 and is very modern. The docked ship is a hotel and a museum, and you can walk through its history with its heritage tour ($23).
However, suppose you thought QE2 offered the perfect opportunity to recreate the iconic shot in front of the lifebuoy in The Parent Trap (as I did). In that case, I have to burst your bubble, as most of the footage in the 2002 film was shot on the Queen Mary 2. But QE2 is still a great date spot and a great place to watch the sunset without worrying about the crowds blocking Dubai’s skyline.
Lebanon Island
You’re familiar with Dubai’s famous habit of building complete leisure islands. They are at it again on the island of Lebanon. The private beach club, restaurant, volleyball court, pool, and event space are only accessible by boat. Dubai’s Archipelago of the World is generally considered a failed project. Still, the Lebanese Island offers an excellent opportunity to escape the crowds and enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience away from the mainland.
Palm Jebel Ali
You may have heard of Palm Jumeirah, home to some of Dubai’s iconic hotels and restaurants. But do you know its sister? Not far from this world-famous landmark is another artificial archipelago twice its size: the Palms of Jebel Ali. Dubai’s outdoor adventurers have saved this failed construction project. You’ll find a shooting club, motocross track, campground, and Beach wholly overtaken by kite surfers.
Although construction began in 2002, the 2008 financial crisis halted it, as seen from the half-finished bridge. Dubai may be known for its over-the-top properties, but Kitesurfer’s Beach has a casual vibe. Despite the expensive cars parked in the parking lot, visitors donned wetsuits and casual beachwear, bringing some of California’s exhilarating surfer energy to Dubai.
Rotana Bay Resort, Cape Khaimah
Technically, the Bay Rotana Resort is still a must-see outside of Dubai. What is the most outstanding feature of this hotel? The Santorini-style room structure is scattered on the hillside and extends to the lagoon. The Mediterranean atmosphere continues with bright pink bougainvillea woven throughout the property and stunning cloudless sunsets. Even better, this resort attracts families and couples every year and is only an hour’s drive from downtown Dubai.
Khat tea house
There are several Khat Teahouses branches in Dubai. Still, the best experience can be found at the branch at the archaeological site of Jumeirah. The site was excavated in 1969, and the unearthed artifacts were determined to be as old as the Abbasid era of the 9th century AD. Now run by the Dubai Culture and Arts Authority, you can discover more of Dubai’s lesser-known cultural roots before and after the meal.
Pro tip: Try to arrange your visit during sunset for a stunning view. It’s best to go on a weekday because the seating is good, and as for what to order, consider ordering simple Karak tea and rugai mai (traditional dessert dumplings) for a light meal. In the heart of this fast-paced city, you can sit down for a quiet dinner with family or friends.
