Dubai: A blend of tradition and modern lifestyle

One & Only Royal Miraj is a property located on a kilometre of private beach overlooking the Palm Island bay
Image: Shutterstock

Over the years, work has primarily taken me to London, New York or Singapore. Increasingly, however, I find myself in Dubai very often for work, especially with the construction boom in the region, and many internationally-renowned architects and design consultants having offices there. The first thing you notice about the city is its innovative and out-of-the-box modern architecture. It has a harmonious blend of age-old tradition with a modern lifestyle.

Recommendations
I would recommend the One & Only Royal Miraj, which is located on a kilometre of private beach overlooking the Palm Island bay. Its restaurant offers fresh seafood and international cuisine by the beachfront. Another hotel I would recommend is Vida Downtown, about 10 minutes from Burj Khalifa. The boutique hotel is ideal for short business trips. It has a conducive business centre and an outdoor pool where meetings can be scheduled. The Armani Hotel, nestled within the Burj Khalifa, reflects pure elegance and grandeur. I like its Italian-styled detailing—from the Eramosa stone flooring to bespoke furnishings and zebrawood panels.Another great place to stay is the Bvlgari Resort on Jumeirah Bay Island, which is like an urban oasis.

In Dubai, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to working lunches and dinners. Some of my preferred venues are the Al Muntaha restaurant on the 27th floor of the Burj Al Arab,  which serves exquisite European cuisine. At.mosphere, on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, overlooks the Persian Gulf and has the option of booking a private dining room for meetings over dinner. For a casual business meeting, you can hop into Hendricks Bar at the Four Seasons Hotel.

Among restaurants, COYA Dubai has a stylish Friday night vibe inspired by the Latin American culture. Their ceviche is a must-have. La Serre, located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, has a boulangerie on the ground floor and the ambience of an uptown French café. From its Mediterranean-inspired menu, I like the burrata and tomato salad.

Getting around
Cabs are what I would depend on. But Dubai also has a robust transport system of metro-rail, tram, and shuttle buses that are efficient and quick. The busses connect all major landmarks and tourist spots. The metro holds the record of being the world’s longest fully automated metro rail network.

After Hours
There is always something new to do, and some new place to see. For an adrenaline rush, you could skydive, or visit the Formula One circuit in Abu Dhabi. For a more relaxing time, you can visit a beach club and relax by the water with some good food and a beautiful view.

For shopping, Dubai Mall is a good place to start. It is extensive, and ranges from haute couture to high-street stores. It has patisseries that are great for taking short breaks from all the shopping.

Tips
Sometimes, the traffic can be very heavy. You could plan your trips carefully to avoid being stuck whilst on a vacation. Give yourself enough time to enjoy the city; there are quite a few unique experiences to be had.

The writer is managing director, Puravankara Ltd

(Coordinated by Jasodhara Banerjee)