Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai – Timing, Things to See

Madinat Jumeirah

Madinat Jumeirah is a gem of architecture in Dubai which in itself is like a small city. It is an exotic destination with many grand and luxurious 5-star hotels, resorts and a group of summerhouses such as Jumeirah Malakiya villas and Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf. The exquisite resorts and summerhouses built alongside the 5 kilometers long creek and in the midst of such picturesque landscape makes Madinat Jumeirah absolutely heavenly.

About Madinat Jumeirah

It’s is a mini-city inspired by Arabian village and emulates Arabian architecture. Madinat Jumeirah spans across forty hectare It is called a city because it is a complete package comprising of hotels, resorts and summerhouse, shops, markets and malls and many breathtaking landscapes. Madinat Jumeirah is an exquisite place and it is sure to cast it’s magic spell on anyone, especially when it’s all glittering with lights at night. It looks just like a dream.

Madinat Jumeirah

Location

Madinat Jumeirah is established along 5 kilometers stretch of a creek, on the foots of the iconic Burj Al Arab. It’s very close to Jumeirah Beach hotel and Wild Wadi water park. It also stretches across some length of the Dubai beach. Since it is also near from the Mall of the Emirates station, the place is easily accessible.

History of Madinat Jumeirah

Madinat Jumeirah is not a very old settlement unlike many other places in Dubai. The construction of Madinat Jumeirah began in 2002 and ended in 2004, costing approximately 340 million US dollars. It is inspired by some original Arabian villages of Emirates and has been built with an objective to showcase the rich culture and heritage of Arab.

Architecture

Inspired by the original iconic Arabian village known as Bur Al Arab, the architecture emulates the archaic-style buildings of the village. Madinat Jumeirah has traditional wooden boats just like Bur Al Arab, which are used as a means of transport across waterways and has wind towers too. It is vast expanse with the most lavish hotels and resorts, marketplaces, summerhouses as well as numerous villas set in the midst of lush green landscapes.

Souks of Madinat Jumeirah

The marketplaces here, known as souks are a sheer treat to the eyes for the way it showcases the shops and the commodities. The lanes of the Bazaar are like a maze consisting of around seventy-five shops. There are nicely constructed wooden walkways throughout the bazaar. It’s not exactly like the original traditional Arabian market. However, it resembles the original ones a lot and has many intricately designed handicrafts just like the Arab Market. As these souks are a fusion of old and modern architecture, to give those modern vibes, there are several stylish cafes and restaurants out there. There is Madinat theatre and you can certainly check it out to get a flavor of western culture.

Water-boats / Abra rides at Madinat Jumeirah

There are waterways at Madinat Jumeirah as it is situated by the creek and the beach front. The water-boats or as they are called there, Abra boats are a special tourist attraction in Madinat Jumeirah. The waterways winding stretch across more than 4 kilometers. You can experience the entire waterway stretch on an Abra boat which is a modern comfy water boat with cushioned seats, with a traditional touch to it’s design. As you sail past the enthralling greenery and landscapes, you can watch the desert to be far away. The towering-tall palm trees, banana trees and the blossoming Bougainvillea gardens altogether, would leave you mesmerized. The water-boat rides start from  Souk Madinat waterfront. The best part is that no advanced reservation is needed for it. You can go for a ride whenever you visit. Besides, if you are staying at any of the Madinat hotels, these water-boat rides or water taxis are complimentary (Free of cost).

Friday Brunch or Lunch

Friday Brunch is a popular tradition in Dubai, and many foreign expats when in Dubai, definitely want to try it out. Friday is a weekend there and therefore, these brunches/lunches are on high demands.  Many 5-star hotels at Madinat Jumeirah are particularly known for their Friday brunch such as Al-Qasr and Mina A Salam. You can feast on a delectable spread of roasted lamb, seafood, exquisite salads and other Lebanese delicacies, followed by mouthwatering Arabian desserts. You can make prior bookings for lunch or brunch at these hotels.

Yoga on the beach- Some amazing yoga activities can be done by the beach side at Madinat, while enjoying the serene views around and enchanting sunsets.

Turtle-watching- As a part of Dubai Turtle rehabilitation , The Jumeirah Al Naseem resort has sheltered and treated more than 560 sea turtles to help them recover and release them into gulf. The enclosure where the turtles stay before being released is open to public for viewing without any cost. Some really rare species of turtles which have made to the list of critically endangered species can be seen here.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to choose the best hotel in Madinat Jumeirah ?

If you are looking for really a lavish experience, check out the majestic 5-star hotels approaching Bur Al  Arab known for their grandeur. One can find more economical and cost-effective hotels near the Mall of the Emirates station.

Where to eat at Madinat Jumeirah ?

You have a variety of options to choose from. Checkout the bars for excellent happy-hour deals. You can try out some of the best hotels like Al-Qasr for amazing offers on Friday brunch dine at some sophisticated roof-top hotel like Pierchic with the enchanting view of Bur Al Arab and Madinat.

How to reach Madinat Jumeirah?

Madinat Jumeirah is just around 2 miles from Mall of the Emirates station. You can take a bus or a cab from there..