Additional Coverage:
- I brought my American family to Dubai for the first time. Here are 4 things I wish I knew before we went. (businessinsider.com)
Dubai Dreams: A Family’s Unexpectedly Affordable and Culturally Rich Spring Break Adventure
For families looking to shake up their spring break routine, Dubai might just be the ticket. One American family recently traded their usual Disney and beach getaways for an eight-night immersion in the fast-growing, futuristic city of Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates. What they discovered was a trip that defied expectations, proving that luxury doesn’t always come with an exorbitant price tag, and cultural differences offer invaluable learning experiences.
Affordable Luxury in the Desert City
Despite Dubai’s reputation for opulence, the family found their trip surprisingly budget-friendly once they arrived. While flights weren’t cheap, the on-the-ground expenses were less than anticipated.
Imagine snagging a five-star luxury hotel, conveniently located near the metro, airport, and bustling gold and spice souks, for under $225 a night. Many meals, including breakfast, were often part of the deal.
Beyond accommodation, many of Dubai’s most cherished experiences were either free or inexpensive. Strolling through the vibrant spice souk markets and window-shopping at the gold shops near their hotel provided colorful, cost-free entertainment.
A standout highlight was the mesmerizing, free fountain show set against the backdrop of the illuminated Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Picture a spectacle grander than the Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas, perfectly choreographed to music.
To further maximize their budget, the family purchased an all-inclusive activities pass, unlocking a range of experiences at a fraction of their retail cost. For just a few hundred dollars per person, they rode camels in the Arabian desert, hit the slopes at an indoor ski resort in a shopping mall, and explored the innovative Museum of the Future. Ultimately, the family enjoyed an upscale international vacation for less than their typical domestic trips.
Navigating Cultural Norms as an American Woman
One aspect that proved a learning curve for the American mother on the trip was the varying gender roles and social norms. She noticed staff members frequently deferring to the men in her family, from tour guides accepting tips exclusively from her husband to front-desk managers assuming he would handle the hotel bill, despite her making the reservation.
Dress codes also presented distinct differences, particularly in religious and traditional settings. While her husband and sons could enter the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi wearing shorts and short-sleeve shirts, she was required to cover her hair, ankles, and wrists.
This meant purchasing a head wrap and opting for a conservative outfit. In more tourist-heavy areas, personal style was more flexible, but in local settings, dressing modestly was a mindful choice out of respect for local customs.
Unexpected Weather and Holiday Considerations
Even in a desert climate, unexpected rain made an appearance. Dubai utilizes cloud seeding, a weather-modification technique, to induce rainfall, meaning showers can materialize even when not in the forecast. A future visit would include packing a rain poncho and umbrella, just in case.
The family also discovered upon arrival that their trip coincided with Ramadan, a holy month in the Islamic calendar. While many establishments remained open, some adjusted their hours or paused activities during daily prayer times.
To show respect, their tour guide advised against eating or drinking in public from sunrise to sundown. While not a major impediment, knowing about local holidays beforehand would have allowed for better planning.
Despite these minor learning curves, the family enthusiastically recommends Dubai as a unique and memorable vacation destination. Armed with newfound insights, they’re ready to embrace their next visit to this captivating city with even greater preparation.