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Fly to a land of camels

May 26 2007 By Lee Ryder, The Evening Chronicle

On September 1, the gateway between the Middle East and the North East will be officially open for business when Emirates begin their daily service from Dubai to Newcastle.

Everybody's to-do list in life is usually a full one but, in terms of a to-go list, it would perhaps be an unfulfilled one if Dubai wasn't on there.

Why? Well there are plenty of reasons to indulge.

The mere sight of the city of Dubai is an overwhelming one the minute you come down the steps of the plane.

Where else would you find a towering skyline that rivals New York in the middle of the searing heat of a desert?

Quite simply, you would not. Dubai is unique in so many ways.

And, for a place that has such a space-age, futuristic backdrop, it doesn't lack any tradition. Beneath the sparkling business towers lies everything that you'd expect way out east.

The Creek is the main water artery in the city and runs right through its centre, with cargo dhows from Iran ready to export goods.

And, alongside the vessels, water taxis, or abras, are jam-packed with tourists and businessmen from all over the world.

The nearby souqs, or markets, on the Deira side of town also prove to be intoxicating, with everything from the charm of their traders to the welcoming scent of frankincense used to lure in customers to buy herbs, teas and confectionery.

But, while business is booming in Dubai, it's certainly worth taking a step back to consider that, as recently as 1986, Dubai the city and Dubai the success story didn't even exist.

But, in 20 years, swathes of luxury hotels have shot up and Dubai is now inundated with bookings.

Like all tourist destinations, Dubai wants more custom, but there aren't even enough hotels to satisfy the growing demand.

The property market is also huge and restrictions on foreigners buying in the city, have now been relaxed, with Newcastle United stars Kieron Dyer and Michael Owen among the first buyers back in 2002.

But it isn't just about superb air conditioning, customer service and perfect weather conditions for a holiday. The place has a real fantasy island feel to it.

Nothing appears to be impossible in Dubai. Even in a place where it never rains, you can still go skiing.

Inside the Emirates Shopping Mall is Ski Dubai, where man-made snow offers a chance to cool down and chill out.

And, overlooking the Arabian Gulf is one of the most audacious construction projects on the planet. The World is 300 man-made islands that have attempted to recreate the Earth. A house on one of the tiny islands start at £400,000, with Rod Stewart having already earmarked Scotland to build exclusive property.

Down the road is the slightly older but equally impressive palm-tree shaped Palm Islands.

Tiger Woods once drove golf balls into the sea off the helipad up top at what is recognised as one of the finest hotels in the world - the Burj al Arab - and Andre Agassi took on Roger Federer in a tennis match to underline the type of clients who enjoy its delights.

But even ordinary folk can enjoy the sophistication of the hotel by dining in one of its many restaurants.

However, entry is strictly by appointment only, with security tight around the breathtaking 321m structure.

But the high level of quality service isn't just in the seven-star al Arab.

Arabs are obsessed with making you feel comfortable and appear to have the art off to a fine tee. Unlike Turkey or Spain, there is a welcoming no-hassle feel to life in the resorts.

Desert safaris are hugely popular in Dubai and a hour's drive from the city takes you into the peaceful and tranquil setting of the sand dunes.

Companies can arrange for you to see belly dancing, try camel riding and enjoy the highs and lows of taking a 4x4 over the desert.

In the desert camps of Dubai, holidaymakers can enjoy a barbecue and stay over to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. And, when you return, you will have plenty to spend your hard earned on if you enjoy shopping.

The souqs of Dubai give you a chance to bargain and haggle with local traders. Goods on offer include antique jewellery from Oman, Arabian coffee pots, Persian rugs and ornaments aplenty.

Emirates begins its daily direct service from Newcastle International Airport to Dubai and onward destinations from September 1, serving a total of 89 destinations in 59 countries, including Australia, India, Thailand, South Africa and China. Return fares for Dubai start from £482, inclusive of all taxes and surcharges. Book through www.emirates.com/uk or call 0870 243 2222.