Dubai’s balmy temps and sensational R&R make it the ideal spring escape – simply add endless sunshine, sand and sea, all blissfully mozzie-free. Whether you’re out on vacay, looking for an adventurous staycay or simply passing through on a layover, be sure to nab a copy of the LUXE Dubai Guide. Here are four ways to enjoy Dubai at the most sublime time of year. We’ll sheikh to that!
Arabian Adventure: Hatta mini-break
Nothing quite beats the cooler climes, sandy hues and craggy landscape of the Hajar Mountains, and my, do they beckon in early spring. Even if you’re in town for just a few days, it’s worth taking the 2-hour drive to Sedr Trailer Resort and Damani Lodges Resort. Channelling upscale trailer park, choose from a vintage silver Airstream, replete with private deck or modern cabin. Explore the stunning surrounds – by foot or bike – of the national park by day and if you have the nippers in tow, wear them out at nearby Hatta Drop-in host to water slides, kayaks and sandy playpits.
Sedr Trailer Resort, visithatta.com/en/sedr
Damani Lodges Resort, visithatta.com/en/damani-lodges/
Desert Camp: Al Maha Resort and Spa
Located 50 mins outside Dubai, the 225-sq-km conservation area of Al Maha is home to wild oryx, gazelle and swish, Bedouin-chic tented suites (each with its own plunge pool). Dine on your balcony overlooking the dunes, take a camel ride or desert safari, recline in the fantastic spa and sip at the sunset Champagne bar. And relaaax.
Al Maha Resort and Spa, +971 4 832 9900, www.al-maha.com
Alfresco Dining: Masti
Dubai has its fair share of wham-bam alfresco bars and restaurants, but we’re currently loving everything about new sip ‘n sup spot Masti, the latest (licensed!) opening by beach babe La Mer. A gorgeous lush green and gold decor backdrops stellar city vantages and Hari Nayak’s Indian-riffing flava-raves. Funky beats too – cin cin!
Masti La Mer, +971 800 62784, mastidubai.com
Shop to Trot: Global Village
Dubai’s fantastical shopping bazaar on steroids Global Village (until 4 April) attracts droves of visitors both local and international with its multi-cultural, fam-friendly offering of eating and shopping via stalls repping food, artworks, and artisanal goods topped off with firework displays and nightly performances. If the idea of shuffling elbow-to-nip sends you into a frenzy, avoid weekends and nab a skip-the-queue-ticket online. If you’re into crystals, a beautiful selection can be found tucked away in the Afghanistan pavilion; Yemeni honey and Iranian saffron are other must-buys. Around the world in four hours – off you trot!Global Village globalvillage.ae/en
Deep dive into Dubai, with your own LUXE Dubai Guide…
