UAE Part 2: Arriving in Dubai--WOW

Arriving at Dubai International Airport, we were both very tired. We managed to find our checked baggage and clear customs easily (it was very easy). We even got a free ride in a golf cart--why walk when you can get a ride?! Check out this video!


Our first stop...the Jumeriah Beach Hotel...this was a very nice hotel along the famous and exquisite Jumeriah Beach, located near the Burj Al-Arab:


The Jumeirah Beach Hotel is open to the public, whereas the Burj Al-Arab only allows entry if you have a confirmed dining reservation (along with a strict dress code):


Summers in UAE can reach up to 50 degree Celsius...hence the need for AIR CONDITIONED BUS SHELTERS!


If you haven't heard of The Palm Islands (the official website has some interesting info) in Dubai, you've been sleeping under a rock. There are two other artificial islands being built as well, The Palm Jebel Ali, and the Palm Deira (let's not forget The World Islands project as well). Check out this advertisement on the highway:


We're considering purchasing a property on the Palm Islands...we just need win the lottery first! Here are the street signs directing you to the Palm Jumeirah (notice all the construction in the background):


There is restricted access to The Palm Islands, so here is picture from Wikipedia:


Here is an overview of the three Palm projects underway (I still can't believe that this is possible!):


Here's the Burj Al-Arab up close and personal (the closest we could get...there's a secure, gated entrance:


I'm going to sign off here with one last picture of the Burj Al-Arab...notice how it just absolutely dominates the skyline in Dubai: