AWESOME THINGS TO DO
The Dubai Marina area is a stunning waterfront precinct and one of the busiest areas in the city, located about 20km from Downtown Dubai. I enjoyed an epic stay in Dubai Marina an impressive precinct with awesome things to do, and fabulous sites to see, making it a wonderful choice for a vacation of a few days or more.
It’s a very popular destination for its vibrant atmosphere, harbour views, proximity to the beach and luxury accommodation, everything you want in a getaway.
My Accommodation
I stayed in the Dubai Marina area for 5 glorious days at the wonderful Movenpick Jumeirah Beach Hotel, on King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street. Located along the main promenade, just a short walk from the beach and close to Dubai Marina Mall, about 30 minutes from Dubai Airport, depending on traffic.
The Movenpick Hotel boasts several restaurants, a bar and pool lounge. Our suite had a private balcony with views, and we were located right in the middle of Dubai Marina area, making it the perfect place to stay.
We arrived late at night, 1am in the morning, on a weeknight and I was surprised to see the area buzzing with people, out and about enjoying the nightlife. Traffic was awful with cars banked up trying to get through the narrow street, and we had difficulty getting to our hotel.
About The Area
It’s hard to believe the whole area is only 25 years old and has fast become a tourist destination with exciting things to see and do, marvellous coastal views, and warm to hot weather all year round.
One side of the marina area is open sea, overlooking the Persian Gulf. Inland there is a long manmade canal 3km long which meets the sea at each end, with 3 pedestrian bridges crossing over.
A plethora of residential and hotel skyscrapers offer accommodation, as the area draws locals and tourists for entertainment and relaxation. Some people choose to live in one of the 150 residential skyscrapers here at the marina, with many, many more being built.
Dubai Marina Landmarks
The following impressive landmarks are the most iconic sites the Marina is famous for:
- Dubai Marina Pedestrian Promenade – a 7km long walking strip lined with restaurants, bars and hotels.
- Dubai Beach – a large wide open stretch of sand to frolic on and clear water for swimming.
- Dubai Marina Harbour – where luxury yachts are docked.
- Dubai Marina Canal – 3km long waterway lined with shops and restaurants.
- Dubai Marina Mall – a large multi-level underground shopping complex offering retail and dining experiences.
- Pier 7 – known as a ‘gourmet tower’ is a 7 storey circular building of luxury restaurants with terraces and scenic views of the marina.
- Dubai Eye – a huge observation wheel, the biggest in the world.
- Cayan Tower – a striking, twisted skyscraper which stands out on the skyline, a must-see for architecture enthusiasts.
- Address Beach Resort – another unique structure, a huge luxury hotel with a square hole in the middle.
- Al Rahim Mosque – on the waterfront.
Dubai Marina Promenade
The Promenade is a lovely 7 kilometre pedestrian walkway lined with palm trees that hugs the picturesque emerald waterway. One of my favourite things to do here, day and evening, was strolling and enjoying the bustling atmosphere and skyline views.
There are some architectural marvels to admire and plenty of luxury locations, a plethora of cafes and restaurants, large sandy beaches, amusements and views of the Dubai Eye.
Whilst I was here a stunning drone show was on display in the evening sky, a carnival with rides for kids, plenty of vendors selling perfumes, souvenirs and other items, and I noticed some lovely street art along the promenade as well.
Dinner Cruise in Dubai Marina
A highlight was taking a wonderful dinner evening cruise around the marina and enjoying a delicious buffet meal on the Celeste floating restaurant for a couple of hours.
The Celeste catamaran cruised around the canal, past all the iconic sights of the Dubai Marina and the views of the city buildings dazzling at night from the water were absolutely spectacular.
I thoroughly enjoyed this sunset dinner cruise which also provided entertainment onboard with dancers performing in bright costumes.
A dinner cruise on a traditional dhow boat is a popular alternative, a wooden vessel historically used for trading.
A luxury yacht cruise is a much sought after experience where you can experience a little luxury on the water with a shared yacht tour.
More Awesome Things To Do
- Take the Dubai Ferry for sightseeing in the area, with several tours each day, at various stops around the Marina area.
- The zipline XLine Dubai Marina is a major attraction for thrill-seekers, launching from the Amwaj Towers and soaring across the marina.
- Skydive Dubai another compelling experience available for adventure junkies.
- Dubai Marina Beach offers an array of watersports to enjoy, such as jet skiing.
- Aquafun is a floating water park at the beach with slides and fun for children.
More Snazzy Trips
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