The tastes of Dubai

Spice Souk Market.

It is a rare thing to fly 14 hours across the world and not want to leave the plane upon arrival, yet that sums up the sky-high luxurious experience from Emirates Air.

Aside from the exceptional service and Emirates’ efficiency – not to mention the full service bar at the back of the plane with all the champagne you can handle – it was the other touches that made the long-haul trip to Dubai so memorable.

(Photo courtesy of Emirates Air)

From the well-considered menu, to the projection of stars on the roof of the cabin – Emirates has crafted a unique experience for each and every one of its passengers.

Stepping out into the warm Dubai weather, you’re immediately overwhelmed by the splendor and spectacular architecture of a city that rivals any of the world’s most popular destinations.

Boasting the world’s tallest building – the Burj Khalifa – and one of the most luxurious (and expensive) hotels in the world – Burj Al Arab – it is easy to get lost in the unbelievable human achievement of the landscape.

(Photo courtesy of Emirates Air)

But there is so much more to this gem in the Middle East.

Dubai is quickly becoming a culinary hotspot with food inspired from all around the world.

At the modern W Hotel in Al-Habtoor City, Namu brings together Korean and Japanese cooking with a contemporary flair. Diners step into this “futuristic” restaurant – which looks like a scene right out of Star Trek – and leave with a sense of just how dynamic the food scene is in Dubai.

And for those that want to continue their evening, located on the 33rd floor of the W is the Boa Lounge & Club, one of the hottest nightclubs in Dubai. With breathtaking views of the city, and a crowd dressed to the nines, Boa has guests coming from all over Asia and the Middle East.

Another glamorous restaurant has also entered Dubai’s food scene – The Artisan. Opened by Enoteca Pinchiorri, a Michelin three-star restaurant in Florence, The Artisan celebrates the most delectable of Italian cuisine.

(Photo courtesy of The Artisan)

Guests are greeted with a stylish interior and a delicate Murano glass installation which floats overhead. With an endless selection of wines and the most beautifully handcrafted cocktails, this is an Italian experience like no other.

Though new Dubai dominates the city for tourists with its palatial malls, the hidden culinary experiences which offer authentic Middle Eastern cuisine can be found in Old Dubai.

A local food tour company, Frying Pan Adventures, has found culinary delights that would satisfy even the most discerning tastes.

Freshly made hummus, falafel and pita can be found on many street corners. Unique hand crafted sweet dishes such as kanafeh – a Palestinian dessert consisting of cheese soaked in sweet syrup layered with phyllo pastry – is a perfect ending to the food tour.

And once you have tried all of these delectable dishes, it’s time to try your hand at making some of them.

To help the chef at home recreate some of the unique flavours, you will find everything you need in a popular area called Spice Souk Market where vendors proudly display endless rows of bright and aromatic spices to help you create your sweet or savory dish. Shops are filled with the scents of turmeric, cinnamon, coriander and the coveted red saffron.

For a true foodie, Dubai offers everything from the modern to the traditional, but wherever you find yourself in the desert oasis, you will be surrounded by history and tradition.

And getting there, indulge in the beauty of Emirates Air emirates.com @emirates.