Dubai - Naff Sounding Touristy Things That are Actually Completely Fabulous

Story by Marion Hume
Photos by Amber Rowlands

Bab Al Shams desert resort is an oasis, a completely fake oasis because everything in Dubai was built yesterday, but fabulous all the same. On the drive out from the city, a SUV roars past. The man inside is in traditional dress and dark glasses and with a falcon flapping about beside him. “We keep them like a pet, as you do a dog,” our driver explains.

We could just relax in the spa or lie by the pool but we don’t. We head out to find the falconers along with lots of honeymooners and other tourists and it’s wonderful. Highly recommended. As is the dinner in the desert complete with whirring dervishes, belly dancers, camel rides and loads of tourists. Why not?

Thing to know: Camel in arabic is Jamel

Bab Al Shams Desert resort & Spa
(45 minutes from Dubai)
http://www.jumeirahbabalshams.com/activities/