L'Ibn Battuta Mall in Dubai is one of the most popular spots for locals and tourists alike.

Here you'll find plenty of stores and restaurants for a family day out.

I present the place in detail in this article.

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Ibn Battuta Mall: article summary

Ibn Battuta Mall in a nutshell

Even if you're in Dubai, you can visit China, India, Malaysia, Egypt and Persia all in the same day! Simply visit the Ibn Battuta shopping mall! This huge shopping center is divided into different zoneswhere you can see different parts of the world without having to leave Dubai.

You can find all kinds of stores in Ibn Battuta, as well as numerous entertainment options such as an indoor amusement park, bowling alley and IMAX cinema. Ibn Battuta is a little further from the center of Dubai so you'll find fewer tourists than in other shopping centers. You can easily reach Ibn Battuta by car and public transport.

The six different parts of the Ibn Battuta shopping center

The name of the Ibn Battuta shopping center is derived from the 14th-century explorer Ibn Battuta. He was just twenty-one years old when he set out on his great journey, which lasted a total of more than twenty-four years and took him to six different countries: Tunisia, Egypt, Persia, India, China and Andalusia.

Along the way, he had many adventures that have become the stuff of legend in Dubai. The design and decorations of the Ibn Battuta shopping mall are based on these legends and the six countries Ibn visited. You'll find, for example, a large stone elephant from a Chinese warship.

What stores can you find there?

If you like shopping, you can spend many hours in the Ibn Battuta shopping center. You'll find stores such as American Eagle Outfitters, Forever 21, G-Star Raw, GAP, Superdry, Tommy Hilfiger and many more.

In addition to fashion stores, you can find stores that focus on art, rugs, souvenirs, books, cosmetics, perfumes, electronics, toys and much more.

What else can you do at Ibn Battuta Mall?

As well as shopping and looking at the mall's beautiful decorations, you can also do many other things in this beautiful place. You can, for example, watch a film at Novo cinemas, which feature several IMAX screens with comfortable cinema seats.

If you've got your kids with you, you can enjoy Fun City with them. This large indoor playground is a children's paradise where they can play for hours. Adults can have fun too. There are several bowling lanes, pool tables and three private, soundproofed karaoke rooms. For the whole family can make the most of his day at the Ibn Battuta Mall!

What are the opening hours?

To take advantage of this place, you can visit :

• From Sunday to Wednesday, 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.
• From Thursday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to midnight

How to get to Ibn Battuta Mall?

As the location is a little out of the way, you'll need a car to get to the Ibn Battuta Mall. So, you can get there:

• By cab
• With your own car.

If you choose the latter option, you'll benefit from on-site parking. However, it can be quite crowded on weekends, and you may find it difficult to park.

The Ibn Battuta Mall is a themed shopping mall unique in Dubai. Enjoy a day of shopping and the beauty of the surroundings, I recommend that you spend a day with your family at this shopping center!

Do you know how to take advantage of Burj Al Arab restaurants ?

Unless you're prepared to fork out more than €2,000 to spend a night at Burj Al Arab, the only way to visit and enjoy the idyllic experience is to book a table at one of its restaurants.

I'll tell you all about the different places to eat here!

Restaurant at the Burj Al Arab: article summary

Discovering the restaurants of the Burj Al Arab

Visit Burj Al Arab has 6 wonderful gourmet restaurants. Burj Al Arab's most prestigious restaurants are Al Mahara, Burj Al Arab's famous underwater restaurant, Al Muntaha and the traditional Al Iwan.

Al Mahara restaurant

It's undoubtedly one of the best restaurants in the world. You can go there with your eyes closed! The atmosphere at Al Mahara is truly incredible, from the subdued lighting to the magnificent aquarium. Plus.., the service is simply impeccable.

With tables overlooking an aquarium filled with tropical fish, you'll have the sensation of dining at the bottom of the ocean, in a surreal and fabulous world.

The Al Mahara restaurant serves excellent seafood specialties, and its refined menu is created by Michelin-starred chef Kim Joinie-Maurin and his team. made with only the highest quality local ingredients.

You can lunch or dine at the Al Mahara restaurant in Burj Al Arab, choosing from a 5- or 7-course tasting menu. Prices are similar to those of any other European Michelin-starred restaurant. Booking is mandatory.

The Al Muntaha restaurant at the Burj al Arab

The Al Muntaha restaurant is located on the 27ᵉ floor of the Burj Al Arab, with an incredible view of the Gulf. Featuring bright, colorful modern interiors in keeping with the 7-star hotel's eclectic architectural style, it serves excellent menus inspired by French and Italian cuisine.

Some of the world's finest chefs have worked here, including Francky Semblat, who recently handed over the helm to award-winning chef Saverio Sbaragli, who trained with Alain Ducasse, has worked in some of the world's finest Michelin-starred restaurants.

The Al Muntaha restaurant is one of the Burj Al Arab's most renowned restaurants, offering a choice between an à la carte menu and a tasting menu featuring fine ingredients including Russian caviar, Italian white truffle, lobster and crab.

The Al Muntaha restaurant also offers a good selection of champagnes and wines. The dress code is chic and elegant and advance booking is required.

Prices are identical to those of Al Mahara. The tasting menu starts at AED 1,000 (€278).drinks not included.

Al Iwan restaurant

The Al Iwan restaurant, directly accessible from the Burj Al Arab's marvellous atrium, is the ideal place to enjoy the best of traditional Arabic cuisine.

This restaurant at the Burj Al Arab serves excellent local specialties, such as traditional dishes and lamb or fish dishes. The atmosphere is warm and romantic, we feel like guests in a sumptuous Arabian palacewith grand decorations, crystal glasses and refined cutlery.

The Al Iwan restaurant offers a less sophisticated dining experience than its predecessors, and is also suitable for families. Prices are a little more affordable than those offered at Al Mahara and Al Muntaha. The quality of service is always very good. Reservations are mandatory.

Le Junsui: enjoy an Asian buffet at the Burj Al Arab

Restaurant Junsui offers a journey through the flavors of the Far East, in a room richly decorated with Swarovski crystals.

It is known as one of Burj Al Arab's trendiest restaurants thanks to its modern, exotic ambience and its eclectic culinary offering, which oscillates between Japanese, Chinese, Malaysian and Korean specialities.

In the open kitchen, more than 25 chefs, in 8 different cooking stations. They come up with mouth-watering creations using a selection of quality ingredients.

The dress code is more casual here, and this is one of the Burj Al Arab's most family-friendly restaurants. It offers a rich buffet at a fixed price. It's a good place to discover the elegance of Burj Al Arab, in a more informal setting, without sacrificing the quality of your meal and service. As for the other venues, remember to book in advance.

Bab Al Yam: the international buffet at the Burj Al Arab

Bab Al Yam is another of the Burj Al Arab's restaurants, serving an excellent international buffet of Mediterranean and European specialities. a touch of Middle Eastern flavor.

Suitable for families, it offers a unique culinary experience and a beautiful view of the Gulf and the city.

The heart of the Bab Al Yam restaurant is the large open kitchen where dozens of chefs create delicious and colorful specialties. You can watch the chefs at work and help yourself to the buffet as much as you like, so you can try out different dishes and flavors. The dress code is casual and reservations are mandatory.

Restaurant Sal: Dine al fresco 

The new Sal restaurant is for those who like things simple. It's the perfect place to enjoy a good lunch or dinner on a lovely terrace overlooking the sea.

This chic, eclectic restaurant on the Burj Al Arab offers a menu inspired by the best of Mediterranean cuisine. Here, you'll find Spanish and Italian dishes, with a touch of Portuguese flavor and French sophistication.

Located just across from the magnificent infinity pool and stunning cabanas overlooking the Persian Gulf, this is probably the most glamorous place to dine at Burj Al Arab. The cuisine is simple, fresh and delicious. A relaxed atmosphere and a wide selection of champagne, wines, cocktails and spirits are also on offer. Reservations are mandatory.

How much does dinner at the Burj Al Arab cost?

The average price of a Burj al Arab dinner is approximately 800 AED (€222) per person, drinks not included.

The tasting menu at the Al Mahara restaurant starts at AED 795 (€221). At the Al Muntaha restaurant, he starts at AED 1,000 per person. In the case of à la carte menus, prices can be significantly higher, depending on what you order.

Can I dine or have lunch at one of the Burj Al Arab's restaurants without a reservation?

Reservations are essential for all Burj Al Arab restaurants.

The Burj Al Arab is virtually inaccessible without a reservation. It is located on a private island, connected to the mainland only by a bridge. To access the bridge, you'll have to pass through a checkpoint.

To open the door, you must show a valid reservation to the guards. There's no other way to get close to the Burj Al Arab.

The Burj Al Arab is still one of the most exclusive places in Dubai, so prices aren't affordable for everyone. It's a unique experience for anyone traveling to Dubai, which is why you need to book well in advance, because only a few people a day can have the privilege of experiencing it.

Among Dubai's best traditional markets, the Souk Madinat Jumeirah is one of the best places to visit in Dubai.

I'll take you there in this article.

Follow the guide!

Madinat souk in Jumeirah: article summary

Why visit the Madinat souk in Jumeirah?

Located close to the villas at Jumeirah and imitating a traditional Arabian bazaar, the souk offers a multitude of restaurants, cafés and bars. Surrounded by magnificent gardens and palm-lined waterways, the emblematic Burj Al Arab adorns the background of Souk Madinat. This unique Arab-inspired leisure and shopping destination is also known for its breathtaking, postcard-perfect views.

What to do in Madinat Jumeirah souk

From a spellbinding ride on a drifting abra through a maze of traditional stores and bustling restaurants, a day in the souk is truly a magical experience. Fortunately for shopping and leisure enthusiasts alike, there are lots to do in Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Let me introduce you to each of these activities.

Shopping in the Souk 

If you want to avoid the hassle of haggling but still want to experience the color and ambience of an ancient market, then shopping in the souk is one of the activities you'll enjoy. As you wander through the winding alleyways, the lingering scents of spices draw you in, while Persian carpets, Turkish pottery and sparkling jewelry will also capture your attention..

If you're looking for unique accessories for your home, consider stopping off at Miri or Persian Carpet House. Then plunge into the dazzling world of jewelry and watches at the souk's Rivoli, Eva Gems and Le Paris Diamonds boutiques.

For trinkets and other incredible finds, you can make a quick stop at the indoor stalls and ephemeral boutiques. Looking for something upmarket? You'll also find a selection of brand boutiques such as Braschi, Paris Moda and Kiwi Saint-Tropez.

Dinner at Souk Madinat in Jumeirah

While there are many local dining options, Souk Madinat Jumeirah restaurants represent a multitude of international cuisines to satisfy everyone's appetite. A harmonious blend of modernity and tradition, the historic atmosphere provides a charming backdrop to these dining venues.

Visit Trattoria Toscana and enjoy authentic Italian cuisine prepared with a Mediterranean touch.

Times of Arabia attracts visitors with its Middle Eastern cuisine and tasty chichas.

While admiring the view of the local waterways, you can enjoy fresh seafood specialties in the romantic setting of Pierchic or discover fragrant and flavourful curries at the Pai Thai.

For dessert, treat yourself to an ice cream with Gelato Divino.

Finally, you can dine at the Trader Vic's and dance to the lively Latin-American rhythms of the restaurant's live concerts.

Take an abra tour

One of the things I recommend you do at Souk Madinat in Jumeirah is to take an abra tour. Climb aboard one of these traditional Emirati boats and cruise the winding lanes to discover all the details of the souk.

To make this trip even more fascinating, the ab's navigator will tell interesting stories and legends about the place. This is undoubtedly one of the activities not to be missed!

A boat trip to the Madinat souk in Jumeirah is one of the souk's most popular activities.

You don't need to be a hotel or restaurant guest to enjoy this tranquil cruise aboard the traditional motorboat, which includes comfortable seating for 10. No pre-booking requiredexcept during rush hours.

To take advantage of this abra tour, you need to go to :

• from Sunday to Saturday, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. in winter
• from 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. to 11 p.m. in summer

Each tour departs every 20 minutes and lasts 20 minutes.

Finally, count :

• 100 AED (€27) per adult
• 50 AED (€13) per child for a full-day visit

Enjoy the Madinat theater

To take full advantage of the Souk's fun side, be sure to catch a show at the Madinat Theater. Nestled in the heart of the Souk, the theater can accommodate up to 440 guests. The Madinat Theater presents a variety of performances every day, including Russian ballet, British pantomime, musicals and stand-up comedy.

Tickets are available from the on-site box office.

Discover the nightlife at Souk Madinat in Jumeirah

While its architectural beauty can be appreciated during a daytime visit, some of the souk's attractions come alive after sunset. The gardens light up, while the Burj Al Arab sparkles in the background..

If you want to party, many bars open their doors at dusk. Finally, you can practice your singing skills at the Klounge karaoke bar, an ultra-luxurious bar in the souk.

What are the souk opening times?

Souk Madinat Jumeirah opening hours are from 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.while restaurants remain open between 8 a.m. and 2 a.m.

How do I get to the Madinat de Jumeirah souk?

If you're coming by car, you can park in the Souk Madinat underground parking lot. However, as finding a parking space can be a challenge on weekends and public holidays, I recommend you consider public transport options. This way, you can reach the locations:

• Visit cab
• Visit bus routes 8, 81, F55A and X28

As well as Dubai, there are incredible souks in other parts of the United Arab Emirates. For example, Abu Dhabi's Qaryat Al Beri souk and Sharjah's central souk are favorite shopping spots for many. However, the Madinat souk in Jumeirah remains for me one of the most beautiful in the United Arab Emirates.

Making sandboarding in Dubai is almost a national sport in the desert.

This desert equivalent of snowboarding is an experience not to be missed.

Here, I've outlined everything you need to know to get the most out of your sandboarding experience in Dubai.

Sandboarding in Dubai: article summary

What is sandboarding?

Sandboarding is like snowboarding, but instead of powdery white snow, you're on hot desert sand. Instead of mountains, you'll descend the high golden dunes.

Contrary to popular belief, sandboarding is not inherently dangerous.

You can reach some pretty impressive speeds as you hurtle down the dunes, which can result in a fall. However, the nature of the sand means it won't hurt you too badly.

If you're too scared to go down the dune standing on the board, you can sit down and use your sandboard as a sled.

Where to go sandboarding in Dubai?

Of course, to go sandboarding in Dubai, you'll need to get to the desert. The drive into the desert is fairly short, and there are a number of different destinations. In general, the journey takes between 45 minutes and an hour.

Tours departing from Dubai will almost always include pick-up and drop-off, as well as all the equipment you'll need to start hitting the dunes as soon as you arrive.

How much does a sandboarding session in Dubai cost?

To be honest, it can be a bit pricey. This is partly due to the fact that a sandboarding experience is usually integrated into a longer, "desert safari". It can be difficult to find tours only for sandboarding in Dubai.

However, it's pretty cool because you can do more than one thing on your desert trip.

Is sandboarding in Dubai worth it?

To try sandboarding in Dubai, you'll most likely need to book a full tour that includes the sport as an additional experience.

Sandboard is a fun activity to enjoy with family and friends. What's more, there are plenty of other desert activities available when you want to enjoy this sport. The experience becomes unforgettable if you choose to spend the night in a desert camp. This kind of visit makes for a real adventure.

There's no denying that this is a very touristy activity, a bit like a dhow dinner cruise in Dubai Marinabut it's still very pleasant.

What to wear when sandboarding in Dubai

Sandboarding in Dubai doesn't require any special clothing. You should opt for loose-fitting clothing, ideally breathable and comfortable enough to move freely. You shouldn't wear anything that restricts your movements too much.

You'll also be in the desert, so a shawl or scarf to cover your head from the heat, as well as your mouth when sandboarding, would be a good idea.

Some agencies provide you with a scarf so that you can continue your visit to the Dubai desert, but I suggest you bring your own just in case.

As for the color of your clothes, I'd avoid black or dark colors. These only absorb the sun's heat. Opt for light colors or white. Light-colored clothing are not reserved for your stay in the desert.

In fact, I'd also advise you to wear as many light colors as possible in town, so as not to suffer from the heat. What's more, loose-fitting clothing will prevent you from sweating too much. Last but not least, sunglasses are a must! Thanks to sunglasses, you won't be dazzled by the midday sun, and you'll be able to keep your eyes on the sun. enjoy an afternoon of sandboarding in the Dubai desert.

A sandboarding trip in Dubai's desert is almost a must when visiting the city. There are plenty of agencies to take you on a tour of this vast expanse of sand, and you'll be spoilt for choice when you get there. For example, you can spend unforgettable vacations in and around the city.

Here, I'll explain everything you need to know about the visa in Dubai for French nationals.

If you don't know how to get your visa, read on.

Dubai visa for French nationals : article summary

Do I need a visa for the United Arab Emirates?

A tourist visa for Dubai is mandatory for entering the United Arab Emirates. Women under 18 are not eligible to apply for this type of visa unless they are traveling with their parents.

According to a Cabinet resolution passed in July 2018, children under 18 accompanying adults can obtain a free visa to visit Dubai from July 15 to September 15 of each year.

A Dubai tourist visa is a short-term visa, which means that the visa is valid for one year. is only valid for a short period. If you overstay your visa, you will be fined.

What types of visa are available in Dubai?

There are several types of Dubai visa you can use. Each type of Dubai visa can be applied for a specific purpose of visit or length of stay. Visitor visas to Dubai for one stay are:

• 48-hour Dubai visa 
• 96-hour Dubai Visa 
• 14-day single-entry visa
• Short-term single-entry visa
• Short-term multiple-entry visa
• Long-term single-entry visa
• Long-term multiple-entry visa

Which tourist visa in Dubai for French citizens?

Dubai's entry or visa requirements are relatively straightforward. First of all, you need your original passport with valid for 6 months from the planned date of travel. You need your valid passport and a return plane ticket.

If you are a French citizen, you can obtain a visa on arrival. Immigration will grant you your Dubai visa on arrival at UAE airports. However, if you are staying longer, you must contact the immigration officer at the airport or the local immigration office and apply for an extension.

How long is a tourist visa valid in Dubai?

Depending on your travel dates, you can obtain a 30-day or 90-day visa. Recently, the United Arab Emirates facilitated a five-year visa that allows tourists to enter multiple times by self-sponsorship and stay in the country for 90 days on each visit, whether you can extend for a further 90 days.

How much does a Dubai tourist visa cost?

Dubai tourist visa fees depend on the type of visa you are applying for. For example, a A 30-day visa to Dubai costs AED 335 (€93). A 90-day visa for Dubai costs AED 805 (€ 224).. However, these fees are subject to change, so I recommend that you check the tourist visa fees before applying.

Can I extend my tourist visa in Dubai?

You can extend all types of visitor and tourist visas by up to 30 days twice, once upon application and approval by the relevant authority. You can do this without leaving the country.

The second renewal must be requested before the first expires. against 600 AED (€167) at each renewal.

As mentioned above, overstayed visas that are not renewed will be subject to a fine of 100 AED (€27) for each day overrun.

How can I extend my tourist visa in Dubai?

You can apply for a visa extension via the website of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security. When you access the website, click on the "Public Visa Service" option. This will take you directly to the page where you can apply for a tourist visa extension in Dubai.

First, you'll need to provide your passport number, passport type, date of birth and nationality. Then, at the bottom of the page, you'll get a list of visas for which you're eligible. The visa extension process is very simple.

You can extend your visa Monday to Friday, 7 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. since :

• Emirates Commercial Visa Services
• Dubai International Airport

A visa is a must if you wish to visit the city. Without it, you won't be able to enter the United Arab Emirates. We're glad you did, it's very easy for a Frenchman to do it from Dubai airport.

Rent a buggy in Dubai is an excellent way to explore the desert dunes.

However, before you jump in and start your adventure, there are a few things you need to know.

Today, I'd like to tell you more about this sport in Dubai.

Buggy in Dubai: article summary

Buggies in Dubai: what should you wear?

We can't think enough about the clothes we wear when we go off-roading. However, it's easy to make a mistake and wear the wrong outfit. So you need to adapt and wear the right clothes.

First of all, I'd advise you to take the temperature into account when choosing your clothes. When driving a buggy in Dubai, Wear long-sleeved tops and pants to protect your body from sand and sun.. You'll also need closed-toe shoes. So take good sneakers or motorcycle boots if you have them.

A helmet and gloves will be provided by the buggy rental agency. So you don't have to worry about this equipment.

Select your tour

The various rental agencies often offer a choice of several tours. The tours usually last from one to four hours.. When selecting your tour, I advise you to pay attention to the time you wish to allocate to this activity. However, bear in mind that longer tours allow you to go further into the desert and explore more of the place.

However, if you're a beginner at off-road sports, you can opt for just a one-hour tour. If you want to explore without getting too tired, you can choose from two-hour tours. I think this is the best choice for exploring the desert while making the most of your buggy trip in Dubai.

Finally, some rental agencies offer sunset tours. This allows you to enjoy the sunset at the same time. riding through the dunes on your buggy. It's a great way to unwind after a long day.

Buggies in Dubai: driving on sand

Driving on sand is different from driving on other surfaces. Sand offers more resistance. This means you'll have to climb slopes at a higher speed to maintain your momentum.

You'll also want to avoid sudden braking. In most cases, when you release the accelerator pedal, the natural resistance of the sand will slow you down. Also, I don't recommend braking hard in the sand.. In fact, this action will only result in your being trapped, and you'll waste long minutes getting out of the way.

If the wheels are spinning, don't try to step on the gas pedal to get out of the sand. You'll just make the situation worse and get a little more bogged down. Instead, reverse. If you're trying to climb back up a dune that's been giving you a hard time, your best bet is to come back down and try again with more speed.

Find a good guide

An experienced guide can really make the difference on your dune buggy adventure. They'll give you tips and instructions on how to navigate the dunes and where to go.

They're also essential for safety. Guides are there to make sure you have a good and safe time. If you get stuck or have other problems, you'll need a guide to help you. However, the purpose of the guide is to make sure these things don't happen.

Most agencies offer experienced guides who will accompany you into the desert for this crazy buggy adventure. Don't hesitate to find out in advance by comparing Internet reviews. You'll be sure to enjoy the services of the best guide during your buggy adventure in the Dubai dunes.

Buggies in Dubai: have a goal in mind

It's not something you often think about, but you need to have a goal in mind before you book your tour. Do you want an adrenaline-filled ride? Do you want to relax and enjoy the scenery? Do you want to go further into the desert? Having a goal in mind won't just help you choose the right tour. It will also help your guide deliver the kind of experience you're looking for.

Take a buggy ride through the dunes the Dubai desert is an unforgettable experience. Whatever your level of experience or objective, you're sure to have a great time. It's an experience that I recommend it to every tourist who wants to enjoy the city's surroundings.