Posted on Aug 08, 2014 by Bethany  | Filed Under: Dubai, summer, activities, festivals, art, hotels, fine dining, waterpark, souks

If you’re looking for some inspiration on where to go, what to see and where to eat this summer, we’ve got you covered. Click through to get the inside scoop on the best that Dubai has to offer when the mercury starts soaring.

What To See And Do

Art Couture

Al Badia Golf Club, InterContinental, Dubai Festival City

During the month of August, art enthusiasts will have the opportunity to see a range of Dubai’s finest creators at the exhibition August Art Affordables at Art Couture. The exhibition showcases original works of art for unusually affordable prices -- from Dh1,000 to Dh5,000. For those chasing an even better bargain be sure to visit the pro shop for a range of artworks by undisclosed artists on paper for just Dh500, which have been specially created for the gallery under the name [email protected] With pieces that range from landscapes with finely etched gold and silver leaf etchings to abstracts and still life paintings, there’s no shortage of options. Head down whenever you feel like it since the gallery is open from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily.

Summer Surprises

Dubai Summer Surprises is the region’s most anticipated summer shopping and entertainment extravaganza. Held at the  Dubai Mall, the festival features the launch of the Angry Birds Universe Interactive Experience at Modhesh World, Skylanders Spyro's Adventure at Mirdif City Centre and Deira City Centre and the The Decepticon Clone Transformers Show at BurJuman. Furthermore, the event provides free summer camps for children aged between three and 16 whilst performers will entertain young ones through the Street Theatre at various malls in the region.

Far from being just for the kids, Summer Surprises has a wealth of shopping options and discounts for adults too, with up to 70 percent off a huge range of designer apparel, homewares, electronics and more, along with the opportunity to win prizes worth Dh2 million worth of prizes whenever you spend Dh200 or more at participating malls.

Wild Wadi

There are waterparks and then there is Wild Wadi. Whilst not the only place to make a splash in Dubai, Wild Wadi features 30 of the most impressive rides imaginable. Thrill seekers will love the adrenaline-fuelled rides including the the 560 foot Rushdown Ravine, Tantrum Alley and the Burj Surj. Best of all, the waterpark is open until 8 p.m. each night through August.

Explore the Souks

Covered bazaars provides a welcome respite from the oppressive heat of the Dubai summer sun. Whether you’re looking for something in particular or just want to meander through the passageways having a peek at the sheer variety of goods on offer, the souks have a wealth of delights to keep everyone inspired.

Where To Stay

Raffles International

Situated in the historic Bar Dubai area of the city, Raffles is the ultimate in luxury, drawing influence from contemporary Asian style and Egyptian aesthetics. Indeed, even the trademark pyramid shape of the hotel is an homage to the classic structures of the Egyptian pharaohs. With generously portioned rooms and sumptuous decor, there are few places in Dubai better appointed to provide a luxurious stay or evening of indulgence.

Where To Eat

Dubai has a staggering array of flavours and tastes from every region of the world. This diverse offering of cuisine means that foodies can enjoy the very best in fine dining from some of the world’s most celebrated chefs, or sample local delights from street food vendors. We take a look at some of the best to check out this summer.

At.mosphere Restaurant

There’s no better place to take in the sheer scale of Dubai than from At.mosphere, perched at a staggering height of over 442 metres in the world’s highest building. Holding the record for the world’s highest restaurant, it’s a culinary experience unlike anything else you’ve experienced.

Bateaux Dubai

The specially designed flat bottom boat of Bateaux Dubai makes for a unique dining experience, allowing patrons to leisurely cruise the calm waters of the Dubai Creek while providing the perfect venue to catch the sights of Dubai while dining on a superb east prepared by some of the best chefs in the region.

Al Qasr

For a restaurant to become known as a brunch institution in a city known for it’s brunches is quite an achievement. Al Qasr literally means “The Palace” in Arabic, and appropriately, it encapsulates everything that such a grandiose title would suggest. Just make sure to bring your appetite as the staggering variety of food could take days to get through.

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