7 Cultural Things to Do in Dubai while staying with Sofitel Hotel

Ride an Abra on the Creek

The Abra ride on the creek in Dubai is one of the most historical and traditional way used many years ago when crossing the creek that separates Bur Dubai from Deira and Dubai’s center. It is most popular when used to visit the spice souk, which the first route from Deira Old Souk Abra station is to the west and from the southwest to Dubai Old Souk. It is also one of the cheapest way to cross with these water taxis and is an incredible contrast between the old and the new and is only 10 minutes away from Sofitel Dubai Downtown.

Desert Safari

The Bedouin lifestyle in the Middle East traditionally live in tents, moving with their herds across vast areas of arid land in search of grazing areas and have a rich history. The Bedouin culture is one of the founding pillars of the UAE society and plays a huge role in the Emirati national Identity. Staying at any of the Sofitel Hotels in Dubai, you will be picked up with a 4×4 at early mornings and drive through the rich desert on an adventure! Learn about the dunes, the ways they used to live and end the night with an incredible BBQ dinner under the stars. It’s a perfect day for the whole family!

Wander Through Bastakiya

One of the only neighborhoods where you can see the old wind towers used in homes as aircon to cool the houses in the past. 10 minutes away from Sofitel Dubai Downtown, Bastakiya was established by Iranian pearl traders and today is one of the most historical and cultural places in Dubai. Today, it is filled with local art talent and little stalls selling spices and traditional souvenirs.

Spoil yourself at a day at the spa at SOSPA

With 28 treatment rooms and private outdoor cabanas for couples, SoSPA offers personalized spa experiences combining Polynesian traditions with high-quality beauty products by Voya and NUXE Candles, natural light and the subtle scent of lavender create an instantly relaxing feel at SoSPA. Choose from a wide range of treatments, from Thai and Aryuvedic massages to Vichy showers. In any Sofitel Dubai Hotels.

Sleep on the Palm Island

The Palm Islands are artificial peninsulas constructed of sand dredged from the bottom of the Persian Gulf in the shape of the Palm Tree. Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa is situated in the center of The Palm and is an ideal location for holiday makers. Take a stroll outside the hotel and find yourself surrounded by food trucks, rent a bike from the BYKYstations that are found on The Palm and cycle on the coast of Dubai’s famous coastline.

Hit the beach

Nestled between Dubai Marina and the white sand beach of Jumeirah at Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), The hotel is close proximity to ‘The Walk” , Dubai’s most popular recreation promenade as well as the new beachfront low-rise leisure and retail destination. Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach is a luxury 5 star hotel reflects the city’s dynamic energy intertwined with traditional culture and is situated on the most iconic beach in Dubai and it also doesn’t hurt when you have an incredible sea view! ‘La Mer’ in Jumeirah is also one of the most popular destination for those long walks on the beach 8 months a year, food stalls across the whole strip. One of the most family friendly places to be! The water park is located right on the strip surrounded by restaurants and kids entertainments and shopping for all ages. 10 minute drive from Sofitel Dubai Downtown.

Visit The Sheikh Mohammed Center for Culture Understanding

Located in Bur Dubai, 10 minutes away from Sofitel Dubai Downtown, the non-profit organization aims to educate visitors about Emirati Culture and is a great day out spent with the family to understand more about the traditional neighborhoods and also to try authentic Emirati food.