Dubai can revel in the breathtaking scenery of rugged mountain ranges and majestic sand dunes, dip their toes in the waters of the Gulf or just take in the beat of the city. Dubai blends an ultra-modern way of life with the old-world charm of Arabia. Here dusty villages and ancient houses sit beside luxurious residential districts and ultra-modern shopping malls.

Dubai is both a dynamic international business hub as well as a relaxing escape for the visiting tourist. It is also a city where the sophistication of the 21st century goes hand in hand with the simplicity of a bygone era. Whilst visitors and residents are encouraged to enjoy an international lifestyle it is important to appreciate the culture of Dubai which is deeply rooted in the Islamic traditions of Arabia. The traditional architecture of the AI Boom Tourist Village forms a stately city landmark. Situated adjacent to Creek Park it comprises of a 2,000 -seat banquet hall, coffee shop, restaurant, amusement park, ornamental lake and marina with five cruise boats.Future plans for the village include a five-star hotel built in the shape of a traditional sailing dhow and self catering as well as fully-serviced chalets. Providing a tantalising glimpse of old Dubai is the old Bastakiya district of Bur Dubai, with its narrow lanes and houses with tall chimney-like structures called wind-towers. Before the advent of air-conditioning, houses were cooled by air being channelled down the wind-tower to the rooms below. Often strips of material or fine cloth were hung from brackets lining the tower to offer additional breeze.

Historically, the city was famous for its mass of wind-towers which lined either side of the Creek. The Bastakiya district has recently been renovated to include a museum, cultural centre, restaurants and a heritage hotel with an art gallery.

In the nearby Shindagha district more than 30 traditional houses have been restored in an initiative to re-establish its original character. The area features windtowers and quaint sikkas (alley-ways). Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry tower is a dramatic blue glass-faced structure, a symbol of the emirate's prosperity and forward vision. Nearby is the Municipality building, which manages to convey an impression of cool shade through the clever use of water and screens, Most striking though is the headquarters of the National Bank of Dubai building, home to the DTCM Head Office which, with its use of polished steel and glass, produces a shimmering reflection of the Creek on its curved facade, This eye-catching building, which was designed by Carlos Ott, architect of the Bastille Opera House in Paris, is at its most spectacular best at sunset.Dubai Creek is a natural sea-water inlet which traverses through the centre of the city. Both historically and today the Creek is a focal point for life in Dubai. A walk along its banks will evoke the city's centuries-old trading traditions, The colour and bustle of the loading and unloading of dhows, which still ply ancient trade routes to places as distant as India and East Africa, captivates visitors.