Four Hours in Dubai

by Frank | Oct 15, 2009 | Journalism, Travel

Four Hours in Dubai originally appeared in Business Traveller. It’s quick round up of things to do on a short layover.

1. Jumeirah Mosque

Dubai is growing at an astonishing rate. From its original home at the mouth of the creek, a seemingly endless supply of skyscrapers, hotel resorts, malls and identikit suburbs have exploded across previously people-free deserts and offshore to a series of ambitious man-made islands. With limited public transport, eight lane highways and adventurous driving standards, taxis or chauffeured cars are by far the most convenient way to experience the beginnings of this brave new Dubai.

For a quick reminder of where you are in the world, head straight to the Jumeirah Mosque on Beach Road, one of the largest and arguably most beautiful Mosques in the city. Built in the medieval Fatimid tradition, the detailed stone working of its two minarets are a fine example of modern Islamic architecture. Non-Muslims aren’t usually allowed inside Dubai’s mosques but thanks to an ‘open doors, open minds’ policy, each Sunday and Thursday at 10am visitors can take an organised tour to explore the mosque and ask questions about Islam. Conservative dress covering arms and legs is expected, women should also cover their hair. (more…)

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