Drop anchor at Dubai Marina for a refreshing stroll, voyage on the waves or simply relax and watch the world go by.
Lofty skyscrapers line the water’s edge as boats lazily ply the sparkling waters at Dubai Marina where the vibrant café culture and awe-inspiring architecture make this an essential stop on any visitor’s itinerary. The cluster of statuesque towers surrounding this man made canal city are themselves a sight to behold. Each one boasts its own unique character derived from a combination of ingenious design and boundless vision. The princess Tower is the world’s tallest resident building, standing at 414 meters with an intricate Art Deco – style domed roof. Its neighbor, Infinity Tower twists at a 90-degree angle and is set to reach 307 meters when construction is completed. As night falls the marina comes alive with bright color adorning each dynamically designed building creating a futuristic scene.
To build the manmade marina, developers transferred water from the Arabian Gulf to the inlet to form a new waterfront that was a plethora of cafes and restaurants representing both international and local flavors. Smoking shisha (flavored tobacco) is popular here at the many open-air eateries where visitors while away the hours taking in the marina vistas. It’s also a wonderful spot for families to enjoy and children are often seen whizzing past on pedaled karts that are available for hire along the marina’s edge.
For convenient shopping in a stylish setting, look no further than Dubai Marina Mall, which offers an abundant choice with designer brands, including Reiss, Ted Baker and Kurt Geiger. The Mall also has six-screen cinema, a varied range of delicious dinning options and there’s even an outdoor Skate Zone for children to enjoy. A direct link from the mall to five –star The Address Dubai Marina sees the luxury continue. The exclusive hotel has a range of fine-dining options, including chic international restaurant Mazina. Or try Shades lounge where a stunning open air setting makes for a serene spot to unwind with a delicious cocktail as the sun goes down.
More remarkable views are to be had at Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites. Perched on the edge of the marina, its 52nd floor gourmet restaurant The Observatory offers breathtaking views out to Palm Jumeirah and across the Gulf.
At the opposite end of the marina lies Dubai Marina Yacht Club where high-end dining options are coupled with views of the elegant vessels moored close by. There are a host of companies here offering opportunities for the sale and charter of luxury yachts to make any marina visit truly special. Visitors can also take a trip on the Dubai Ferry, which leaves twice a day from the marina, sailing to Palm Jumeirah. Operated by Dubai’s RTA (Road and Transport Authority), the journey, priced from AED 50, allows passengers to view iconic sights such as Burji Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah from a unique ocean perspective. The trip also offers impressive panoramas with a look back to the marina, ensuring a lasting impression.
