#Ali Baba Mediterranean Cuisine

[alaturkaamerika]

Ali Baba’da Unutulmaz Akşam: New York Belediye Başkanı Türk Lezzetlerini Keşfetti

New York’un en sevilen restoranlarından biri olan Ali Baba Mediterranean Cuisine, geçtiğimiz günlerde özel bir konuğu ağırladı. New York Belediye Başkanı, restoranda sürpriz bir ziyarette bulunarak şehrin zengin kültürel mutfağını deneyimledi. Bu anlamlı buluşma, hem restoran çalışanları hem de müşteriler için unutulmaz bir akşam oldu. New York,NY | Alaturka– Restoran sahibi Ali Rıza Doğan,…

[khazanaqueen]

Halal Food in Toronto: A Culinary Haven for Diverse Palates

Toronto, Canada’s largest city, is renowned for its multicultural vibrancy, and its food scene reflects this beautifully. Among the diverse culinary offerings, halal food holds a special place, catering to the dietary requirements of Muslim residents and visitors while also appealing to food enthusiasts from all backgrounds. Whether you’re craving traditional Middle Eastern fare, South Asian delicacies, or innovative fusion dishes, Toronto has it all when it comes to halal cuisine.

What is Halal Food?

Halal, an Arabic term meaning “permissible,” refers to foods prepared in accordance with Islamic dietary laws. These laws, derived from the Quran and Hadith, include guidelines such as avoiding pork, alcohol, and ensuring that animals are slaughtered in a humane and specific way. Toronto’s halal food establishments adhere strictly to these principles, ensuring authenticity and quality for their patrons.

The Growth of Halal Food in Toronto

Over the years, Toronto has experienced a significant rise in halal food options, fueled by the city’s growing Muslim population and an increasing demand for diverse culinary experiences. Halal restaurants, grocery stores, and food trucks can be found in nearly every neighborhood, ranging from upscale dining establishments to casual eateries and street vendors.

This growth has also been driven by a trend among non-Muslims who appreciate halal food for its perceived quality and ethical considerations. As a result, halal-certified options have become more mainstream, available not only in specialized restaurants but also in major food chains and supermarkets across the city.

Popular Halal Food Hubs in Toronto

Toronto is home to various neighborhoods where halal food thrives, offering a wide array of flavors and cuisines:

1. Scarborough

Scarborough is a treasure trove for halal food lovers. Known for its vibrant South Asian and Middle Eastern communities, the area boasts numerous halal eateries. Restaurants like Karahi Point serve authentic Pakistani dishes such as karahi chicken and biryani, while places like Paramount Fine Foods offer a taste of Lebanese cuisine with dishes like shawarma, falafel, and hummus.

2. Downtown Toronto

In the bustling downtown core, halal options abound. Whether you’re looking for a quick halal burger from Burger Factory or gourmet dining at places like Byblos, which offers Eastern Mediterranean flavors, you’ll find plenty to explore. Food trucks, a staple of downtown life, often feature halal-certified menus, making it easy to grab a bite on the go.

3. Etobicoke and Mississauga

These suburban areas are hubs for halal food, thanks to their diverse populations. Mississauga, in particular, is famous for its halal buffets, such as Watan Kabob, offering Afghan cuisine, and Nihari Inn, specializing in traditional Pakistani stews and curries.

Variety in Halal Cuisine

One of the most exciting aspects of halal food in Toronto is the diversity of cuisines it encompasses:

Middle Eastern Delights: Bangali Restaurant in Toronto from succulent kebabs to creamy hummus and freshly baked pita, Middle Eastern halal food is a staple in Toronto. Restaurants like Dr. Laffa and Tabule are popular for their authentic offerings.

South Asian Flavors: Indian and Pakistani halal restaurants offer a wide range of spicy curries, biryanis, and tandoori dishes. Places like Lahore Tikka House and Bombay Chowpatty are must-visits.

Halal Fusion: Toronto’s innovative chefs are blending halal guidelines with global cuisines. Think halal sushi, Korean barbecue, or even Mexican tacos, available at spots like Chica’s Chicken and Ali Baba’s.

Desserts and Cafés: Halal dessert shops and cafés have also made their mark, with offerings like halal cheesecakes, macarons, and specialty teas.

Where to Shop for Halal Ingredients

In addition to dining out, Toronto offers ample opportunities to shop for halal ingredients. Halal butcher shops, such as Iqbal Halal Foods and Bismillah Grocers, provide fresh, certified meat and a range of international products. Mainstream grocery stores like Walmart and Costco also stock halal-certified products, reflecting the growing demand.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the halal food scene in Toronto is thriving, challenges remain. One of the primary issues is maintaining trust in halal certification. Consumers often seek transparency about sourcing and preparation, prompting restaurants to display their certifications prominently.

However, these challenges also present opportunities. As awareness of halal food grows, more businesses are entering the market, offering innovative and high-quality options. Food festivals like Halal Ribfest and Halal Foodie Festival celebrate this diversity, attracting thousands of attendees annually.

Tips for Exploring Halal Food in Toronto

Research and Reviews: Use apps like Zomato or Halal Eats to find top-rated halal restaurants and read reviews.

Ask for Recommendations: Locals are often the best guides to hidden gems.

Explore Beyond Restaurants: Don’t forget to check out halal bakeries, dessert shops, and cafés for a sweet ending to your meal.

Be Adventurous: Toronto’s halal food scene is vast, so step out of your comfort zone and try something new.

Conclusion

Toronto’s halal food scene is a testament to the city’s rich cultural diversity and its ability to embrace and celebrate global traditions. Whether you’re a longtime resident, a visitor, or someone looking to explore halal cuisine for the first time, the city offers an incredible array of options to satisfy your cravings. From traditional dishes to contemporary fusion creations, halal food in Toronto is more than just a meal – it’s an experience that brings communities together over a shared love of flavorful, ethical, and inclusive dining.

[arallen14]

China Halal Food Market | AR Allen

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[arabella-au]

Why do Australians Love Lebanese Food?

Lebanese food is one of those dishes that Australians have enjoyed for years. Its blend of spices and flavours makes it so popular, and there are many reasons why. In this article, we'll take a look at some of the reasons why Australians love Lebanese food so much, and we're sure you'll be able to find one or two that you enjoy too!

The History of Lebanese Food

Lebanese food is something that Australians have always loved. The Mediterranean diet has become very popular in Australia recently, and Lebanese food is a big part of it.

Lebanese cuisine consists of a variety of dishes that are cooked using spices and herbs. Some popular Lebanese dishes include falafel, shawarma, kabobs, and classic hummus. Falafel is made from ground chickpeas and spices and is often served as an appetizer or side dish. Shawarma is a type of sandwich made from beef or lamb that is grilled on a vertical rotisserie. Kabobs are small pieces of meat or seafood that are skewered and then grilled over an open fire. Classic hummus is a dip made from chickpeas, tahini (a paste made from sesame seeds), lemon juice, garlic, and water. It can be served with pita bread or vegemite toast as an appetizer or main course.

Lebanese food has become popular in Australia because it is easy to cook and tastes great. There are many variations of Lebanese cuisine available in restaurants all over the country, so anyone can find something they love to eat.

What Is Lebanese Cuisine?

Lebanese cuisine mixes Arab, Mediterranean, and North African influences. The main dishes are bread, pastries, salads, soups, stews and meat dishes. Lebanese food is known for its spices, herbs and flavour profile. Some common Lebanese dishes include shawarma (a popular sandwich made from lamb or chicken), kabobs (layered skewers of various cuts of meat), falafel (deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas) and baklava (a layered pastry with sweet syrup).

The many types of Lebanese food

Lebanese cuisine is a mix of Mediterranean, Arabic and Persian influences. Dishes can be spicy with many flavours, including cumin, cardamom, garlic and onion. Lebanese food is enjoyed all over the world for its flavour and variety.

There are many types of Lebanese food that Australians love. Falafel is a popular street food in Australia made from ground chickpeas mixed with spices and fried until crispy. It can be eaten as a snack or as part of a meal. Shawarma is another popular type of Lebanese food, made from lamb or chicken kebabs barbecued on a skewer.

Another favourite Australian dish of Lebanese origin is baklava, a type of pastry made from layers of phyllo dough filled with nuts, honey and syrup.

Lebanese Food in Australia

Since the Lebanese immigrants first arrived in Australia in the late 1800s, they have been a staple in Australian culture. Today, Lebanese food is so popular that countless restaurants and cafes throughout Australia are dedicated to serving this delicious cuisine.

The most popular dishes of Lebanese food in Australia are the mezze (small plates), which can include anything from savoury shawarma skewers to creamy garlic lentils. Be sure to also order some traditional Lebanese bread like baklava or taouk and house-made pastries like kouign amann (a croissant-doughnut hybrid) or maamoul (a type of pastry made with almond milk and honey).

If you're looking for something more substantial, try one of the many famous dishes from Lebanon, such as the chicken shawarma at Ali Baba's cafe or the lamb chops at The Rendezvous restaurant. And don't forget to save room for dessert: Beirut Bakery is known for its lavish array of cakes and pastries, while Arabelle's has a wide variety of ice cream options.

So whether you're craving a mezze plateful or a full-fledged meal, Australian Lebanese food is sure to please.

How Do Australians Eat and Drink Lebanon?

Australians love Lebanese food for its spices, flavours and diversity. Lebanese cuisine is known for its lamb, rice and vegetable dishes. Australians also enjoy Lebanese coffee, which is strong and sweet. Some popular Lebanese dishes include shawarma (a gyro sandwich), falafel (deep-fried balls of chickpeas) and baklava. Australians often order these items with sides such as labneh (yogurt) or tabbouleh (a salad made of bulgur wheat, tomatoes, onions and herbs).

Conclusion:

Take yourself on the delicious adventure of Lebanese food by visiting the best Lebanese restaurant near me. Lebanese banquet has all types of middle eastern cuisine.

[realmarydiamond]

Finally got Brian to try Mediterranean food... sorta. "Like" if you think he should try the grape leaves! (at Ali Baba Mediterranean Cuisine)

[ecotripphoto]

#Dinner in #Denver #Colorado ... #Food #Foodie #Eat #Feast #FoodPorn #Mediterranean #Lebanese #Cuisine #Beef #Lamb #Chicken #Rice #Gyro #Meat #MeatLovers (at Ali Baba Grill) https://www.instagram.com/p/Bsg3ydLAscu/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=9ij7242exoyr

[traveler-x-blog]

Likya Coast Turkey

Likya coast is one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. It is located in southwestern Turkey at the intersection of the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea. Likya coast is characterized by blue beaches with shallow waters, beautiful countryside, and perfect weather. It consists of 18 km of clean fine sand suitable for relaxing and enjoying the view of the horizon, where you can visit the rich monuments near the beach such as the old theater and the Victory Gate. Likya coast also contains many high-end luxury tourist resorts that make the tourist enjoy the prestige of the view and the place and the luxury of staying in private cottages and chalets overlooking the sea. The city of "Patara", and the air-conditioned rooms offer a comfortable and clean stay and a beautiful view. The hotel provides massage service, free parking, and the internet and has a restaurant that prepares famous Turkish dishes. "St. Nikola" restaurant offers a variety of Turkish and international cuisine, and what distinguishes this restaurant is that it cooks and serves food with crockery, which gives the dish a special taste, in addition to many restaurants such as: "Ali Baba" and "Sufra" restaurant. being in turkey this summer is definitely a good option the beaches there are just charming and the atmosphere is highly recommended. Likya beach is one of the best places to visit. Read the full article

[rajatgarg79]

Believed to be one of the oldest oilseed crops, sesame seeds and sesame oil have recently started to make a name for themselves. The reason for this sudden popularity is that the new experimental generation of chefs and recent studies have started to highlight the health benefits of this oil. Indians, Africans, Southeast Asians and Middle Easterners have been using sesame oil in their cuisines for ages. Apart from cooking, it is also used for cosmetic and healing purposes, and for massages and treatments.

The cultivation of sesame seeds is believed to have originated in the Indian Subcontinent, about 5500 years ago. It was an easily cultivable crop, as it grew in drought-hit areas. The seeds are considered to be a symbol of prosperity and health. Sesame oil has been highly regarded in the Mediterranean and other cultures for centuries and finds extensive use as a massage oil in Ayurvedic treatments.

Different extraction processes give different colour and flavour to the sesame oil. The cold press process mostly used by the Westerners produces a pale yellow coloured oil. While the Indian sesame oil is golden, East Asian oils are dark brown as they are extracted from roasted seeds. The roasting of seeds gives a distinctive flavour to the East Asian oil and hence it is used mostly as a flavouring agent. The other two types of oil are used for cooking purposes.

Sesame oil is specifically rich in Vitamin K. Besides that the oil comprises monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats, saturated fats and palmitic acid. It also contains Vitamin B complex, Vitamin D and E, and phosphorous. Some of the proteins present in the sesame oil are beneficial for hair.

Middle Eastern countries, China, Korea and south Indian states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh extensively used Sesame oil for cooking purposes. Though refined oils have replaced these traditional oils, some parts of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh still use sesame oil for making curries and gravies. It is also used in the spice powder served with idlis and dosas. Low-grade oil is also used in soaps, paints, lubricants etc.

According to Ayurveda, sesame oil is most effective in balancing Vata and can also be used for Kapha, two of the three doshas or the regulating forces of nature. The oil is used for massage because the oil is nourishing, warm and has calming properties.  It is also used for healthier teeth and gums, and for lubricating bowels.

Basic facts about Sesame oil:

Botanical name of Sesame - Sesamum indicum

Family - Pedaliaceae

Common Name - Til

Sanskrit name - Tila

Native region and geographical distribution - Though sesame is grown all over the world, Myanmar is the leading producer of sesame oil, producing 18.3% of the world’s total sesame oil production. China is the second largest producer of sesame oil, followed by India.

Interesting facts - It is believed that the famous phrase “Open Sesame” from the Ali Baba tale in “One Thousand and One Nights” actually refers to the sesame plant. Sesame seeds grow in a pod that opens when it matures. It is believed that “open sesame” suggests the unlocking of the treasures.

from myUpchar.com के स्वास्थ्य संबंधी लेख via https://www.myupchar.com/tips/sesame-oil-benefits-side-effects-in-hindi/

[moteltampico]

Tabouli salad. #monamour (at Ali Baba Mediterranean cuisine of Escondido)

[cheapibizaholiday1]

Here Are Three Lunch Spots In The City Of Richardson TX

Located in both Dallas County and Collin County, Richardson TX is a major force in the telecommunications field. Perhaps you are moving there to take on a new job in that industry. Or maybe you are just passing through the The Telecom Corridor. Richardson is also a major hub in the insurance industry. Let’s say you are in the city for whatever reason and need to take a break and grab a good lunch. The following establishments are three good spots for lunch that you might enjoy.

Ali Baba Mediterranean Grill is one of them. Now, you may have had fried zucchini, but have you had stuffed zucchini? You can order up stuffed zucchini at Ali Baba Mediterranean Grill, as well as baklava, a gyro plate, hummus, kabobs and more. In fact, the restaurant features a buffet, so you can have quite a lunch experience with a variety of foods. The establishment is located off of the North Central Expressway.

Mena’s Grill is a favorite for lunch in Richardson TX, too, and it is on North Greenville Avenue. You can enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine there, and you can order up a steak, too. Ribeye is on the menu, and this restaurant also features healthy menu options. In fact, the ‘Healthy Plate’ is something you can order.

Cafe Max on Alma Road is also a nice place to have lunch. This restaurant features great salads, sandwiches, seafood and more. If you want a nice dessert for lunch, Cafe Max has some nice pies and cakes to choose from.

Those three picks for lunch in Richardson TX will do you right. There are also some great barbecue restaurants of course. It is Texas after all. Pick you a spot based on what you crave, and refuel with lunch so you can get back out there.

The post Here Are Three Lunch Spots In The City Of Richardson TX appeared first on CHEAP IBIZA HOLIDAY.

Visit to Learn More: http://www.cheapibizaholiday.com/here-are-three-lunch-spots-in-the-city-of-richardson-tx/

[rebizgirlny-jenniferlaurenhoxter]

Beautiful warm night with my best friend..my mum:) (at Ali Baba Mediterranean and turkish cuisine)

[viralhottopics]

Dubai: Insider Travel Guide

(CNN)Dubai may be famed for its bigger, bolder, brighter design philosophy, but it’s not all shiny buildings and alligator-skin Rolls-Royces. Dubai’s origins as a small fishing settlement centuries ago remains within the cracks.

Dubai has become a go-to career stop for tax-averse foreigners — it’s Arab at its core but capitalist at its edge. That means glistening shopping malls, outrageous hotels and a lifestyle that’s been acclaimed by Mercer as the best in the Middle East.

While you’re in the neighborhood … Abu Dhabi: Insider Travel Guide

With a population of just more than 2 million (about 75% male), it’s flashy and it’s ostentatious. Let’s get started:

Hotels

Luxury

Al Qasr

Compared with the city’s glitzy and unashamedly gaudy Burj Al Arab and Atlantis The Palm Hotel, Al Qasr, which translates as “The Palace,” offers a distinctive Arabic flavor (Persian rugs and ornate oil lamps) without resembling Ali Baba’s grotto.

Step inside the lobby and the scent of freshly cut rose petals — which are scattered into a center pool — hits you square on, while rooms look out onto Arabesque waterways and the Persian Gulf.

One&Only Royal Mirage

Despite the name, there are in fact two One&Only resorts in Dubai, both within a couple of miles of each other.

Celebrity favorite Royal Mirage is the more worthwhile of the two.

Guests have included Michael Jackson and David Beckham, who’ve slept within the Arabian architecture, immaculately cultivated palm tree gardens and probably lounged on the crisp white beachside cabanas.

It’s also a great place for water sports — expert South African instructors offer wakeboarding and wakesurfing lessons in the calm waters right off the beach.

Kempinski

One of your few chances in the Middle East to wake up with a penguin.

Kempinski Mall of the Emirates

Not only is this five-star hotel a shopper’s dream (it’s attached to Mall of the Emirates), it looks out onto the most bizarre scene in the desert — Ski Dubai, one of the largest manmade ski slopes on the planet.

The hotel has crafted its suites accordingly, with chalet-style decor, Molton Brown hues and fake fireplaces.

From the bedrooms and dining room, visitors can see the piste, tobogganing track, chair lifts and even a gaggle of penguins flown in to live in the 22,500-square-meter fridge.

Mid-range

Amwaj Rotana Jumeirah Beach

Though in the moderate range, you still get five-star accommodation at the Amwaj Rotana.

For half the price of the luxury resorts you get a room on JBR Walk, the area where locals show off their souped-up Jeeps and million-dollar Ferraris.

Here you can also kick back with a shisha pipe in the dozens of al fresco restaurants along the beachfront.

Unlike most areas of the city, you can actually walk around.

Budget

Citymax Al Barsha

Cheaper than some and in a good location 20 minutes from all areas of Dubai, these digs are small, new and squeaky clean.

Each room comes with international TV channels, fridge, kettle with tea and coffee, Wi-Fi and cleaning services.

You have to buy your water from the vending machine down the hall.

The bottles in the room aren’t replenished after check-in.

Don’t stay here for the decor; stay for the lively American-themed rock bar on the ground floor, where a blonde bombshell singer (often in white Lycra) belts out everything from Nirvana to Cranberries covers.

Dining

Fire & Ice

A hypertrendy loft space complete with NYC-style brickwork, Fire & Ice is set in one of Dubai’s most unusual architectural feats — Raffles Dubai, a 19-story pyramid tipped with gold that’s worth the journey alone.

This carnivore’s Eden is as elaborate inside — the meat is singed in pans at sub-zero temperatures.

Prime cuts are served alongside beautifully presented minimal veg and flavored foam.

Beef eaters can challenge themselves to identify each of the imported slabs of meat on the sampler plate, which comes with mini-cuts of Irish Angus, Aussie Angus and wagyu beef.

Levantine

This restaurant may not offer the best Lebanese cuisine out there, but it does bring eclectic fantasy decor at Atlantis The Palm.

On the outside you’ll find salmon-colored walls and a casino-style spade shape in the center of the building.

On the inside it’s psychedelic, swirly patterned carpets, under-the-sea motifs on the walls and a ceiling-high blown-glass sculpture coming out of a shell-shaped fountain.

At Levantine you can sit outside on the terrace and take it all in, while chomping on a selection of hot and cold mezze, grilled meats and Arabic breads.

Cabana

Although the food selection here won’t make your jaw drop — expect shwarmas (chicken wrapped in bread with garlic paste), grilled prawns and vegetables — the setting will.

This sleek, outdoor restaurant does exactly what it says on the tin: serves you while you lounge around on poolside seats.

There also happens to be a staggering view of the world’s tallest building.

Aprons & Hammers

Set on a docked boat, guests at this novelty eatery get an apron and a variety of utensils, including lobster forks, claw crackers, hammers and tweezers with which to dismantle shellfish.

There are a variety of buckets filled with cooked crabs, claws and legs, or lobster and shrimp.

Bussola

The resort-like palm tree, swimming pool and beach backdrop make you feel like you’re holidaying in the Bahamas rather than the desert.

The menu includes simple Mediterranean dishes such as imported cold cuts, pomodorino salad with sun-dried tomatoes and chunks of orange and parmesan, salami-slathered antipasto and lots of pizza cooked in a stone oven.

Ravi’s

In spite of the gritty canteen-style decor and plastic dishes, Ravi’s is busy every night of the week.

You’ll find incredibly tasty Punjabi curries, such as spicy chicken jalfrezi, full of Indian vegetables.

The haleem is a slow-roasted porridge-style dish with lentils and lamb.

Freshly cooked rotis are served with a variety of tangy dips.

Bu Qtair

In the fishing village to the right of Umm Sequim beach you’ll find plastic tables and chairs scattered around a car park, and a white Portacabin serving fish, fish and fish.

At the counter, a selection of curry-slathered morsels is stacked high in a metal tray.

Chefs fry snapper or hammour in front of you and serve it with a bowl of curry sauce, home-cooked paratha, rice and salad.

Smiling BKK

It’s not easy to find this hipster Thai restaurant, which is hidden in a back street in the Jumeriah district.

Look for the neon-mustached Mona Lisa sign on the outside.

Inside is a creative medley of kitsch memorabilia — walls covered higgledy-piggledy with picture frames and a pin board filled with Polaroid snaps.

In the corners there are tongue-in-cheek pictures of naked Thai girls with their bits covered by humorous phrases.

Tables are adorned with place mats made of recycled magazine pages.

Typical Thai dishes come with fun names such as “Masters Of The Universe.”

Dubai in the sky: 12 restaurants with a great view

Nightlife

Jetty Lounge

This beach bar set on The One&Only Royal Mirage’s private beach exudes cool.

It attracts a young, professional crowd on weekends, who lounge around in their designer threads on the crisp white couches overlooking the sea and yachts, while listening to down-tempo beats and sipping expensive cocktails.

At.mosphere

If you’re looking to show off, get the elevator to the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa and take a seat at At.mosphere’s bar.

Though this place is predominantly a restaurant, it stocks rare whiskies and vintage wines.

You can sip on them while enjoying a 360-degree view of the city while sitting 1,450 feet (442 meters) above ground level.

Nasimi

Nasimi specializes in beach beanbags and novel cocktails — made from vodka, midori, fresh melon, lemon and sugar, the Nasimi Signature is worth a try.

A roster of one-off events at this popular spot make it worth checking in on frequently. Chicane, Zero 7, 2manyDJs, Roger Sanchez and Pete Murray have all appeared for the series of daylong “Sandance” parties.

360 Bar

Set on the end of its own pier, hovering on Gulf waters, 360 is a hotspot for sundowners who love the views of the iconic sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel, yachts pulling into the marina and the city skyline.

It’s got an Ibiza vibe, as the DJs play down-tempo soundtracks to the panoramic sunset cinema, then crank up the tempo at night for a club-vibe that inspires ravers to keep their sunglasses on.

Irish Village

One for homesick Europeans, the Irish Village pub is decorated to look like a friendly village shop, tobacconist and pub, all kitted out with wooden fixtures imported from Ireland.

It has a pub garden, Guinness, roast dinners and Irish stew.

Barasti

Here you’ll find hundreds of expats of the Aussie, Kiwi and South African variety, who come to relax with a shisha on the sand, dance to the cheesy bar band on the wooden decking against the night sky.

Drinks are reasonably priced and it’s always packed, but call ahead in case of special events on weekends.

Promoters often bring in international DJs or artists such as N-Trance, The Streets and Sister Sledge.

Shopping

Dubai Mall

This is the world’s largest mall, with 1,200 shops and a retail floor area of more than half a million square meters.

It’s also filled with more luxury designer brands than you can shake a credit card at — Gucci, Dior, Prada, Burberry and so on.

When it comes to outrageous, Gold Souk takes the gong. The most amazing thing about this place is the fact that there’s seemingly no one guarding the large amount of precious metal behind its regular glass shop windows.

Madinat Souk

Attached to the adjacent Jumeirah Beach Hotel, this labyrinth of high-end market stalls selling everything from expensive shisha pipes to antique furniture and jewelry is Dubai’s take on a Middle Eastern souk.

There’s no hustle and bustle, no dirty corridors or fake goods.

Instead shoppers can browse in perfumed, air-conditioned corridors and rest in between stress-free shopping at one of the many bars or restaurants in the complex.

Unsurprisingly, locals and expats don’t shop here, although it has become a social hangout, and visitors can pick up a well-made gift at an inflated price if they’re so inclined.

BurJuman Centre

Ironically, this high-end mall is set in a poorer area of Dubai, yet it houses Cartier, Bvlgari, Versace and Louis Vuitton outlets as well as mid-range brands Guess and DNKY.

Despite the staple luxury goods, this mall has a different feel than the other mega indoor complexes, with outdoor gardens to explore in between earth-shattering purchases, a rarity in Dubai.

Ibn Battuta Mall

Well worth a visit, this mall not only offers a selection of familiar stores, including Top Shop, Next, H&M and Accessorize, it also sports off-the-wall decor inspired by the travels of 14th-century Moroccan explorer Ibn Battuta.

Here you’ll find a giant model of a ship and an elephant, plus displays telling the story of Battuta’s travels.

The “Persia” section of the mall has an incredible hand-painted dome; the “Egypt” section has walls covered in hieroglyphics.

Bur Dubai Souk

Parallel to the Creek in Bur Dubai, the souks in this area sell pashminas, dishdashas, spices and gifts.

It’s a touristy area, but a good place to try your haggling skills with friendly shop vendors.

The end of the souk offers a fascinating glimpse into the local community.

Here you’ll find the Shri Nathje Jayate Temple and a Hindu lane, where hawkers sell flower garlands, Indian sweets and incense.

Holographic Shiva pictures and packets of bidis go for a couple of dollars.

Bur Dubai Souk, behind the Grand Mosque; off of Abi Talib Street

Activities

Skydiving

If you feel the need to launch yourself out of a plane over the Palm Jumeirah and hurtle toward the ground from 12,000 feet (3,660 meters), Skydive Dubai would love to have you.

It’s one of the busiest jump zones in the world, with bird’s-eye views of Dubai’s skyscrapers, the Gulf coastline and desert in the distance.

You can even train for a paragliding license here on one of the Skydive Dubai courses.

When you’ve completed it you’ll be qualified to jump solo anywhere in the world.

If you’d rather watch, the annual Dubai International Parachuting Championships is held during winter.

Waterparks

At Wild Wadi Waterpark you can surf the 10-foot (three-meter) flow-rider (artificial wave machine), zip down the largest freefall water slide outside of the United States or fall though a plug hole.

Or you can try Aquaventure Waterpark where you can drift around on the lazy river or experience the 90-foot (27.5-meter) near-vertical drop, called the Leap of Faith, which propels your body through a see-through tube inside a shark tank.

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Desert Safari by four-wheel drive

Twice daily, convoys of Jeeps hurtle around an area called Big Red in the desert close to Dubai.

Dozens of companies take cars of up to six people over the distinctive orange-tinted dunes.

Tell your driver the kind of adventure you’re looking to have, whether it be dune bashing or a relaxing drive, and he’ll oblige.

Afterward, guests are taken you to a mock Bedouin camp for a feed, Arabic dancing, henna drawing and camel riding.

Water taxi

The best time to ride a traditional Abra water taxi is at sunset.

Cross the river in Bur Dubai for photo ops of the protruding domed mosques against the red skyline.

Local boat drivers also offer longer scenic tours for tourists up the river and out to sea. Dinner cruises are also available.

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from Dubai: Insider Travel Guide