U.A.E
Playground Dubai: A Journey through Gastronomy, Culture, and Adventure
Article and photography by Michael Morcos
Dubai had long been on my list of must-visit destinations, and finally, I was here for the first time. As a travel writer, I’ve explored many cities, but nothing could have prepared me for the sheer grandeur and variety of experiences Dubai offers. A city where history meets innovation, where adventure collides with luxury, and where every corner tells a different story. My days here were filled with discovery, from crafting my own perfume to racing across the skyline on a zip line, indulging in world-class cuisine, and wandering through historic neighborhoods that spoke of a time before the towering skyscrapers.
Paramount Hotel, A Stay in Hollywood Glamour
For my stay, I checked into Paramount Hotel, a luxurious retreat that blends classic Hollywood glamour with modern comfort. From the moment I stepped inside, I was transported into the golden age of cinema. The hotel’s interiors are inspired by classic films, complete with vintage-style movie posters, cinematic lighting, and an elegant, star-studded atmosphere. My room was stylish yet comfortable, with a plush bed, sleek furnishings, and floor-to-ceiling windows offering a fantastic city view. It felt like a perfect escape from the city’s non-stop energy, a place where I could relax in style while still being in the heart of the action.
A Fragrant Start at Oo La Lab
I kicked off my Dubai experience with something entirely unique: crafting my own signature scent at Oo La Lab. Walking into the studio, I felt as though I had entered a modern-day alchemist’s lab. Glass bottles filled with aromatic oils lined the shelves, each containing a different essence: floral, woody, musky, citrusy. Under the guidance of an expert perfumer, I mixed and matched different notes, experimenting until I found a combination that felt like just right, the result? A warm, spicy scent with hints of oud and spice, something I’d always associate with my first time in Dubai and named it “Spice Route”. It was a deeply personal and immersive experience, a perfect way to start my journey
Luxury Dining with a View at SLS Dubai
While I wasn’t staying at SLS Dubai, I made it a point to visit its stunning Italian restaurant, Fi’llia for lunch. Located on the 70th floor, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of Downtown Dubai, with the Burj Khalifa standing tall in the distance. As I dined on freshly made pasta, creamy burrata, and truffle-infused dishes, I marveled at the juxtaposition of Dubai’s futuristic skyline against the vast desert beyond. The ambiance was sophisticated yet welcoming, and the combination of authentic Italian flavors with an unforgettable view made this meal truly special.
Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa, Reaching New Heights
My next stop was the Dubai Mall, an architectural wonder in its own right. Spanning over 1.1 million square meters, this shopping and entertainment mecca houses everything from luxury brands to an indoor ice rink. One of my favorite experiences inside the mall was walking through the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, where I found myself face to face with sharks and manta rays as I strolled through a massive glass tunnel.
But the real highlight was ascending to At The Top, Burj Khalifa. The high-speed elevator ride alone was exhilarating, shooting me up to the 124th floor in seconds. The moment the doors opened, I was greeted with a view unlike any other. Dubai stretching endlessly in all directions, its skyscrapers standing like futuristic sculptures against the desert backdrop. Watching from this vantage point was mesmerizing.
To add to the artistic journey, I visited Arte Museum Dubai, where digital projections and interactive exhibits created a surreal, dreamlike environment. Walking through the immersive art installations, I felt as if I had stepped into a painting, one moment surrounded by swirling galaxies, the next by cascading waterfalls made of light.
A Taste of Old Dubai at Arabian Tea House
For a complete contrast, I ventured into Arabian Tea House, a charming cafe tucked away in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood. Stepping inside felt like entering a different era, whitewashed walls, rustic wooden tables, and the soft chatter of locals enjoying traditional Emirati fare. I sipped on karak chai while savoring a spread of balaleet (sweet vermicelli with eggs), fresh khameer bread, and fragrant hummus. The simplicity and authenticity of the meal were a refreshing break from the city’s high-energy vibe.
Culinary Adventures
To further dive into Dubai’s diverse food culture, I joined a Frying Pan Adventures guided tour. We wandered through the Dubai Souks, where the scent of spices filled the air and stalls overflowed with colorful textiles, dried fruits, and gold jewellery. I tried Iranian kebabs, Syrian hummus, and Emirati regag (crispy crepes), a delicious culinary journey through the city’s multicultural flavors. As part of the Creekside Food Walk, I hopped on a traditional abra to cross Dubai Creek, stopping at hidden gems serving mouth-watering dishes.
Museum of the Future: A Glimpse Ahead
Dubai is a city that constantly reinvents itself, and nothing embodies that spirit better than the Museum of the Future. The building itself is a masterpiece, resembling a gleaming silver torus adorned with Arabic calligraphy. Inside, I explored exhibits that imagined a world shaped by AI, robotics, and space exploration. The experience was thought-provoking, making me wonder how much of this envisioned future would become reality in the coming decades.
The mighty Atlantis
Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai is more than just a luxury resort, it’s a destination in itself, offering a world of entertainment, dining, and relaxation. Situated on the iconic Palm Jumeirah, this architectural marvel boasts opulent accommodations, including underwater trekking with breathtaking views of marine life. Guests can indulge in Michelin-starred dining at restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs like Gordon Ramsay and Nobu Matsuhisa or explore the massive Aquaventure Waterpark, home to record-breaking slides and a private beach. The Lost Chambers Aquarium offers an immersive journey through marine ecosystems, while Dolphin Bay provides up-close encounters with dolphins. Also on site, is a balloon ride that gives amazing vistas of the islands and the Dubai skyline. For those seeking relaxation, the AWAKEN Spa delivers world-class treatments, and high-end boutiques cater to luxury shoppers. With a vibrant nightlife scene, exclusive lounges, and endless activities, Atlantis, The Palm is a self-contained paradise that offers something for every traveler.
A Persian Feast at Ariana’s Persian Kitchen
After the day’s excitement, I sought out a relaxing dining experience at Ariana’s Persian Kitchen, located at Atlantis, The Royal. The setting was elegant, with manicured gardens and an ambiance of refined luxury. The food was equally exquisite: succulent beef kebabs, saffron-infused rice, and pomegranate-laced stews. Each dish was a delicate balance of flavors, a testament to Persian culinary artistry.
X-Line Dubai: Adrenaline over the Marina
I’ve experienced my fair share of adventure sports, but nothing prepared me for X-Line Dubai, the world’s longest urban zip line. Launched from a 45-story skyscraper, I raced across the Dubai Marina, my heart pounding as I soared over yachts and high-rises at nearly 80 km/h. The sheer thrill of it was electrifying, and the perspective it offered seeing Dubai from such a dynamic angle was unbeatable.
A day in the Desert
No first visit to Dubai is complete without a desert experience, and Platinum Heritage Safari delivered an unforgettable one. Driving through the dunes in a vintage Land Rover, I viewed many native animals and as the sunset paint the sand in shades of gold and crimson we were treated to the popular sport of falconry. Arriving at a Bedouin-style camp, I enjoyed an evening filled with camel rides, and a lavish feast under the stars. Traditional Emirati music played in the background as I savored grilled meats, mezze platters, and freshly baked breads, a magical night in the heart of the desert.
Dubai Frame & La Perle Show
I would also visited the Dubai Frame, a striking structure that offers views of both old and new Dubai. It perfectly encapsulated the city’s transformation from a humble fishing village to a global metropolis. That night, I attended the La Perle Show, a jaw-dropping spectacle of acrobatics, aerial stunts, and water performances.
A Culinary Masterpiece at Orfali Bros Bistro
Dining at Orfali Bros Bistro, a Michelin-starred gem, was a culinary highlight of my trip. Run by three Syrian brothers, the restaurant masterfully blends Middle Eastern and international flavours with modern techniques. From the Shish Barak a la Orfali, a creative take on traditional dumplings, to the bold and unexpected Umami Eclair, every dish was a work of art. Watching the chefs in action from the open kitchen added to the experience, making this meal not just delicious but truly memorable. It was the perfect finale to my Dubai journey.
Final Thoughts
As my incredible journey through Dubai came to an end, I boarded my Air Canada flight home, settling into their exceptional business class. From the moment I stepped onboard, the experience was seamless, spacious seating, impeccable service, and gourmet dining that rivaled some of the meals I’d had on the ground. Sipping on a fine glass of wine while reclining in my lie-flat seat, I reflected on the whirlwind of adventures, flavors, and cultural discoveries from the past few days. It was the perfect way to unwind and savor the memories of Dubai, already dreaming of my return to this ever-evolving city.
