The Magic of DUBAI in February

Dubai, a city where modernity meets tradition, stands as a shining jewel in the United Arab Emirates. While summer might be its peak tourist season, February offers a unique charm, with pleasant weather and an array of exciting activities waiting to be explored. Traveling with my 1 and half year old so this time we keep the focus on activities where my child can experience Dubai too. Join us on a journey as we uncover the wonders of Dubai during this magical month, from its iconic landmarks to hidden gems, ensuring the winter escape is nothing short of unforgettable.

Arriving at the airport in Dubai is surreal, just looking at the number of aircrafts as you taxi to your gate. Despite being one of the biggest airports in the world, it is very user friendly even when you have to travel between terminals with a child. It can be overwhelming as you get off your plane, but friendly staff and easy to read maps everywhere make it a breeze to get to immigration. The immigration queues are long, but they are fast moving. Halfway to the counters, seeing us travelling with a child, the staff helped us skip the queue, as they often assist families with children. Some of the perks of travelling with a child (wink). From here its just a 5 minute walk to get out of the airport with options to get a taxi, metro or to hotel pick up services.

Dolphinarium

Step into a world of wonder as graceful dolphins and playful seals captivate audiences with their mesmerizing performances. The dolphinarium offers an immersive experience for visitors of all ages, providing insights into the intelligence and agility of these magnificent creatures. You can witness thrilling dolphin and seal shows, where these marine mammals showcase their acrobatic skills and bond with their trainers. Interactive sessions allow visitors to get up close and personal with the dolphins, offering opportunities for unforgettable encounters and lasting memories. The show lasted for about an hour and I must say that my 1 and half year old was just as captivated as the rest of us, constantly pointing at everything new the dolphins or seals were doing and clapping his hands along with the rest of the crowd.  We bought our tickets from Thrillophilia. At the end of the show you are invited to take photos and interact with the dolphins but this comes with an extra cost.

Umm Al Quwain Zoo

Nestled in the serene landscapes of Umm Al Quwain lies a hidden gem waiting to be explored: Umm Al Quwain Zoo. Unlike the bustling attractions of Dubai, this relaxing oasis offers a unique escape into nature. Home to a diverse array of wildlife, including exotic birds, majestic big cats and playful primates, the zoo provides a captivating experience for all ages. Stroll through lush greenery and winding pathways as you encounter fascinating creatures from around the globe. I suggest a visit after 4 PM as some of the animals are allowed out of their enclosures to roam about with everyone. In contrast to many zoos worldwide, Umm Al Quwain Zoo offers visitors the unique opportunity to feed the animals. However, it’s important to note that food for the animals must be purchased separately, incurring an additional cost. Nevertheless every penny was well spent witnessing the sheer joy on my son’s as he fed giraffes.

Global Village

Global Village in Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, offering you a whirlwind tour around the world without ever leaving the city . From vibrant market stalls brimming with handicrafts and souvenirs to tantalizing aromas radiating from food pavilions representing over 75 countries. Every corner is a celebration of diversity. Enjoy live performances showcasing music, dance and traditional arts from across the globe. Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Morocco, marveling at the intricate craftsmanship of Indian textiles or savoring authentic flavors from Thailand, Global Village promises an immersive experience like no other. In its first year the global village hosted just 18 countries in 1997, growing to over 75 countries today at a colossal location. Our visit lasted nearly four hours spellbound in the unique artifacts and flavors and in my opinion you would need an entire day to visit every country on showcase. For those with time constraints, crafting a must-visit list beforehand is essential and make sure you have your walking shoes on. We got our tickets from Thrillophilia.Dubai Mall

Yes, I know! Why the mall!? Well, this one is different. The dubai mall is a shopper’s paradise. It is a world-renowned destination offering an unparalleled retail experience. With over 1,300 stores including luxury boutiques and flagship stores, it’s a haven for fashion enthusiasts, like my wife (wink). Beyond shopping, you can enjoy entertainment attractions like the Dubai Aquarium, an ice rink and Underwater Zoo, making it a must-visit destination.

The Aquarium

Well if you’re into fishkeeping like me then you just cannot miss this one. Home to over 33,000 aquatic animals, including sharks and rays, this colossal tank offers a fascinating glimpse into marine life. Walk through the tunnel to witness these awesome creatures up close or opt for a glass-bottom boat ride or even cage snorkeling for a unique perspective. Perfect for families and marine enthusiasts alike. Keep in mind that each of these activities comes with an additional cost. Beware of the photobooth, as they charge you upwards of a 100 AED.

Penguin Cove

If you’re feeling frosty then visit this Penguin Cove, nestled within Dubai Mall. It is a winter wonderland, where you can encounter adorable penguins up close. Marvel at their playful antics and learn about their habitat conservation efforts. With interactive exhibits and educational presentations, Penguin Cove offers a delightful experience for visitors of all ages. I think this was the highlight for my son as he played with these penguins. There are separate charges for viewing penguins through glass and for hands-on experiences. Note that personal belongings aren’t allowed during hands-on encounters, meaning no photos. Professional photos are available for purchase, starting at 200 AED.

Dhow Cruise

Set sail on an enchanting adventure through Dubai’s shimmering waters aboard a traditional Dhow Cruise. Glide along the historic Dubai Creek or the modern Dubai Marina, soaking in panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline. As the sun sets, witness the city’s transformation into a dazzling spectacle of lights, casting a magical glow over the waters. Indulge in a buffet dinner featuring a variety of global dishes, served amidst elegant Arabian décor and music. Take in cultural performances, including traditional Tanoura and belly dance shows, adding to the ambiance of the evening. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a memorable family experience, a Dhow Cruise in Dubai promises an unforgettable journey through the heart of this dynamic city. Your cruise experience is abundant with options, each offering its own unique charm. The quality of your journey depends on the choice you make, ensuring an adventure tailored to your preferences and desires. We got our tickets from Thrillophilia.

Dubai Frame

Rising majestically in Dubai’s skyline, the Dubai Frame stands as a symbol of modernity and innovation. This architectural marvel offers panoramic views of the city’s contrasting landscapes, with the old city on one side and the new on the other. Step into the Sky Deck for breathtaking views stretching to the horizon. Dive into the past with exhibitions showcasing Dubai’s evolution from humble beginnings to its current status.

Museum of the Future

Step into tomorrow at Dubai’s Museum of the Future, a visionary marvel shaping the landscape of innovation. Find groundbreaking technology and futuristic concepts that redefine the boundaries of possibility. There are interactive exhibits exploring AI, robotics, sustainability and a lot more, offering a glimpse into the world of tomorrow. Through engaging experiences and fascinating displays, the museum wants you to envision a future where innovation and imagination come together to create a better world.

Burj Khalifa

Gold Souk

Dubai’s Gold Souk is a glittering paradise for jewelry enthusiasts, boasting a buffet of exquisite designs crafted from precious metals and gemstones. This place is a maze of lanes with shimmering storefronts, where skilled artisans showcase their intricate creations. From traditional to contemporary styles, the souk offers something for every taste and budget. Here, bargaining is an art, and if you’re anything like my wife, you might walk away with more than you bargained for.

The Food

Dubai’s dining scene is a culinary assortment, offering a diverse line up of restaurants to satisfy every palate. From elegant fine dining establishments helmed by Michelin-starred chefs to bustling street food markets brimming with local flavors, there’s something to satisfy every craving. Here’s my list for a must visit.

• Denny’s Diner for breakfast : This is a classic all American style diner open 24 hours. The portion size is worth every penny.
• Gunaydin is an authentic Turkish cuisine restaurant, known for their kebabs.
• CE LA VI is Contemporary Asian dining and a Michelin star award winning restaurant. Make sure to make reservations.
• Akiba Dori is known for its Japanese, Pizza and Asian street food. The rock shrimp and pizzas I will remember for a long time.
• Zou Zou is a Lebanese and Turkish fusion restaurant. Apart from their food, there has to be a special mention for their serving staff (clap, clap).
• Huqqa at the Dubai mall has contemporary, grill and middle eastern cuisine. I recommend a visit as the sun goes down to get a spectacular view of the Dubai fountain, while you enjoy your shisha.
• Lahore Darbar located in Deira had the best nihari that I have ever had. Hands down. It also took me a few hours in the washroom afterwards, but totally worth it!

Essential Gear: My Must-Have Products

This Dubai trip with my one and a half year old was made effortless, thanks to essential gadgets and products we’ve discovered over our travels. These tried-and-tested items have become invaluable companions, enhancing our experiences and simplifying our stay and flight journeys. Here’s my handpicked selection to make your Dubai trip with a little one a breeze.

• Stroller : There’s a lot of walking in Dubai and this stroller has been very comfortable not just for my kid but for us too, that comes with storage as well. This also folds down to an easy to carry mode and it also fits in the over head bins on flights.
• Snack box : This box is very convenient to carry snacks for my kid especially during flights and at airports. It has 3 compartments that lets me carry a variety of snacks and fits in the diaper bag without taking up a lot of space.
• Busy board and Toys for flights : How to entertain small kids on a flight? These 2 are small, compact and easy to carry that keeps my kid occupied for hours. We only use these on flights.
• Diaper changing mat : Changing diapers becomes very convenient with this mat providing a clean and comfortable space to lie your baby on especially while you are on the move, providing a germ free space that comes with pouches to store wipes and much more.
• Diaper disposal bags : Easiest way to take care of those dirty diapers after a change especially on the go without worrying about any smells that may discomfort those around you.
• Universal Charger : This one is helpful for any trip to any country. One product that takes care of any type of plug points in different countries.
• Travel Containers : These containers help us carry the different products like specific shampoos or moisturizes for your baby or even for your self, that come in large quantities so you do not need to carry the bigger bottles.

Conclusion

In conclusion, our trip to Dubai was filled with unforgettable moments and experiences that will stay with us forever. From exploring iconic landmarks to indulging in delicious food and immersing ourselves in the vibrant culture, every day brought new adventures and discoveries. Despite the challenges of traveling with a toddler, essential gadgets and products made our journey smoother and more enjoyable.

Dubai as a city has invited the best from around the globe to showcase their skills, be it in architecture or technology, and this is evident at every corner. Since income is tax free, it has also attracted many wealthy individuals and businesses that call Dubai home. So the city has found other ways to make you spend more than you would hope for. Every attraction has an entry fee that has gone up over the years to every opportunity to sell you a picture is never missed. So just be aware of this and plan your budget accordingly, opting to purchase tickets wisely from reputable sources like Thrillophilia or official websites.

As we bid farewell to this dynamic city, we carry with us cherished memories and a sense of gratitude for the unforgettable experiences we shared. Dubai has left a lasting impression on our hearts and we look forward to returning one day to create more magical memories. Until then, we carry the spirit of adventure with us, ready to embark on new journeys and explore the wonders of the world.

_{These are of course just my opinions based on my experiences and gained knowledge. Differences in opinions are welcome.}

_{Leave a comment below if there’s something you want to discuss.}