Dubai is one of the popular tourist destinations in the Middle East. Dubai is not only popular as a tourist place but also as a shopping paradise. Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make the UAE. There are various popular tourist attractions in Dubai, which attract large number of tourists from different parts of the world.

Bastakiya: A step back in time, Bastakiya is the place to get an idea, what Dubai was few decades back. When there was no electricity and air conditioning, Dubai Creek used to be lined by a mass of wind towers that kept the local houses cool. Undergoing renovation, Bastakiya will soon be transformed into a 'tourist village'.

Palm Islands: Certainly, this is the place for the future. Being developed on the theme of a Palm tree, the Palm Islands are said to be visible from the moon. When complete, the Palm Islands will be the largest manmade islands in the world. The Palm Jumeirah, which is almost complete, features a number of hotels as well as private residences. All the three islands are slated to open in 2008. Nevertheless, you can always go and check out the progress.

Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum's House: This house is one of the oldest houses in the city, and is the finest examples of traditional architecture. Built from sandstone, in 1896, the house offers excellent views of the sea - although the view has been slightly obscured by more modern development. The house was reopened as a museum in 1986 and is open Saturday- Thursday from 8 am to 2:30 pm and 3:30 pm to 9:30 pm.

Jumeirah Mosque: The most photographed building in the city, Jumeirah Mosque a fine example of modern Islamic architecture. Built along medieval Fatimid lines, entirely of stone, the mosque and its two minarets are unmistakable. It is looks really beautiful in the night, when subtle lighting increases its dramatic effect.

Grand Mosque: Re-built in 1998 The Grand Mosque boasts of the city's tallest minaret, at 70m (231ft). Located on the Bur Dubai side of the creek, near the Ruler's Court, the Grand Mosque consists of nine large domes and 45 smaller ones.

Apart from various tourist attractions, there are various shopping malls in Dubai , which are a delight to explore. Dubai also has fine tourism infrastructure and boasts of some of the finest hotels. Hotels in Dubai range from up scale luxury hotels to budget and deluxe hotels.

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Author is a freelance travel writer