One of the most fascinating desert cities in the world, Dubai is a land of magnificent mosques, opulent hotels, extensive shopping malls and superb beaches. The city is a haven for travelers of all age and tastes. The best places to visit in the city include:

Burj Al Arab:Although it`s a hotel, the Burj Al Arab is a primary tourist sight in Dubai. This signature building is the first stop of almost all international travelers visiting this city. Its stunning sail shape makes it instantly recognizable at day, whereas it stands out at night time due to the spectacular display of light.

Children`s City:An ideal place for children aged between two to fifteen, the Children`s City offers children with an opportunity to discover and explore the world in which they live. This educational center features special exhibits and programs on nature, space, science, culture and human body. Also on offer are theatre workshops and daily educational workshops.

Heritage and Diving Village:A great way to explore Dubai`s history, the Heritage and Diving Village helps traveler`s look back in time. History of the city`s pearling industry can be best witnessed at the Diving Village. The Heritage Village on the other hand exhibits crafts of local potters and weavers.

Ski Dubai:First indoor ski resort in the UAE, the Ski Dubai opened in 2005 and has been visited by millions of travelers since then. It is a fun destination for skiers having varied degree of skills, from beginners to experts. It also features a snow park for kids, freestyle zone for snowboarders, a ski shop and themed restaurants.

Dubai is a tourist hotspot with an abundance of some of the finest accommodation options in the entire UAE. Best areas to stay in Dubai Include:

Deira:Dubai`s business and commercial center, Deira is the old city which is home to traditional spice and gold souks or markets. Best hotels in the area include the Hilton Dubai Creek, Carlton Tower Hotel, Hyatt Regency Dubai at Dubai Corniche and JW Marriott Hotel at the city center. The travelers on a budget can opt for Ramada Continental Hotel.

Jumeirah Beach:Jumeirah Beach is home to world renowned hotels and resorts, along with attractions like Mall of the Emirates and the Wild Wadi Water Park. Burj Al Arab Hotel has been awarded the highest and most exclusive rating by the Cranley independent hotel ratings and information group. Next to it lies the super luxurious Madinat Jumeirah resort, which is set amidst meandering waterways. For the best sports, dining and conference facilities, travelers can opt for the Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

Dubai Marina:Dubai Marina is a preferred area for both business travelers and tourists. The best and finest accommodation options here include Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa, Habtoor Grand Resort & Spa and the Grosvenor House.

A valid passport is required by all nationals intending to visit Dubai.

A visa is not required by the nationals of Britain, Australia, Canada and USA for a stay of up to 30 days. Nationals of countries who do need a visa for stays of up to 30 days are- Czech Republic, Estonia, Cyprus, Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Romania, Slovak Republic and Slovenia.

Dubai has extreme temperatures at different times of the year hence it would be wise to consider the climatic conditions before your Dubai trip. November to March with a pleasant and mild climate is considered to be the best time to visit Dubai.

Dubai experiences an arid sub-tropical climate with average year round temperature in the range of 10 degree Celsius to 48 degree Celsius. Dubai enjoys sunny days and low rainfall throughout the year. June to September is the summer time when it gets extremely hot and humid in the city. Dubai is prone to sandstorms in the months of May till early July. Winter begins in December and ends in March with most of the annual rainfall falling during these months.

Currency:Currency used in Dubai is Dirham. AED or Dhs are alternatively used as symbols for Dirham. Most shops in Dubai accept credit cards, apart from cash. Most banks, hotels and private institutes exchange foreign currencies in the city.

Language:Official language of Dubai is Arabic. English is also widely spoken and understood in this Emirates city. Other languages commonly spoken in Dubai include Urdu, Hindi, Punjabi, Persian, Tagalog and Malayalam.