There's no shortage of things to occupy the mind and senses in Dubai.

For example, as well as the excitement of the souks where spices, cloth and even gold can be haggled for, more conventionally-minded are also attracted by the city‚s annual Shopping Festival (15th January-15th February) during which prices are reduced by up to 15% by many retailers.

The crystal clear waters of the east coast attract lovers of diving (Dubai was once a centre for pearl fishing), while those who prefer to indulge their aquatic pleasures in a more relaxed way will enjoy a Dhow Cruise on the Dubai Creek.

Golfing enthusiasts are catered for at the Emirates Golf Club, the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club and the Nadal Sheba Golf Club, which is fully floodlit. Dubai‚s horse-racing season lasts from November to April and features the sport‚s richest prize, the Dubai World Cup.

Desert trips are highly recommended, including romantic dune dinners set against the splendour of the Dubai sunset.

Another way to set the pulse racing is a visit to the Wild Wadi Water Park which boasts some of the most amazing slides and waterborne excitement you‚ll ever experience. And for calmer but equally remarkable stimulation, there‚s the Dubai Museum, located within the 150 year-old walls of the Al Fahidi Fort