The hotels

If you want over the top luxury then you are in the right place. Dubai promises some of the most eye-catching hotels in the world – it is famous for creating a whole new seven star category for the iconic Burj Al Arab Hotel because it though the traditional five and six star maximums were too shabby a description for all its facilities. Other hotels are jostling for position at the top of the luxury stakes and the beachside complexes with wonderful, beautifully lit pool and garden areas are incredible havens if you want to chill out and recharge your batteries. Other hotels are geared up for families with children and there are plenty of self-catering apartments on offer if you want to do your own thing.

If you fancy a drive out to see another amazing hotel then the Emirates Palace in neighbouring Abu Dhabi is worth a look. It’s one of the most opulent places to stay on the planet – and anyone is free to wander round its vast public areas or have a coffee alongside its private beach.

Gordon Ramsay is just one of the top chefs who have opened a restaurant in Dubai. Fine dining is a big part of the holiday experience and most hotels have stunning indoor and outdoor restaurants. But you don’t need to spend a fortune to eat. All the usual fast food and fun food companies are in the shopping malls and there are plenty of great places where expats hang out – the Lime Tree Café in Jumeirah being one popular favourite. If you want a drink with your meal then you need to be in a hotel-style restaurant, and it’s important to remember that the locals won’t be eating or drinking anything during the day time during the month of Ramadan (normally October or November). So be discrete about your own meals when you go outside the main hotels in this period.