Escape to: Dubai

Oct 23, 20255 min read

Led by the five senses, Hebah Baker, stylist and fashion editor at Sheerluxe Middle East, gives us the gift of escape this holiday season with her guide to the best of Dubai.

Once a small fishing village in the Arabian Gulf and now one of the most fascinating, cosmopolitan settings in the world, explore the senses of Dubai through the lens of one of its most stylish locals.

Scents of the city

Top Note: A fresh first impressionThe crisp scent of the sea breeze along Jumeirah Beach, mixed with the warmth of sun-soaked sand—a fresh first impression that captures Dubai’s coastal energy.

Heart Note: The scent that defines its soulThe rich aroma of oud, saffron, and spices drifting through the Deira souks, reflecting the city’s soul and its blend of tradition and diversity.

Base Note: The grounding, lasting memoryThe lingering warmth of amber, sandalwood, and heat-soaked stone from Downtown Dubai at golden hour—a lasting memory of the city’s modern vibrancy rooted in its desert spirit.

Local flavours

Go-to restaurant for catching up with friends:

I love Somewhere, a Mediterranean-meets-Middle Eastern fusion spot that perfectly captures Dubai’s creative energy. The food is fresh, vibrant, and full of flavour—but for me, I always eat with my eyes first, so the interiors matter just as much. With warm tones, curved lines, and travel-inspired details, the space feels as appetizing as the menu itself—making it my go-to place to catch up with friends over something beautiful and delicious.

Shopping for fresh produce or local specialties:

When it comes to shopping for fresh produce or local specialties, my top picks are Ripe Market and Alserkal Avenue. Ripe Market is perfect during the cooler months, with its open-air setting, fresh local produce, and community feel that makes it more of a weekend experience than just a market. Meanwhile, Alserkal Avenue offers a more curated vibe—especially when the farmers market pops up there—where you can explore local goods, grab a coffee, and take in the creative atmosphere.

A view to remember

Culture:
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is my top pick. It’s one of Dubai’s oldest districts and beautifully preserves the city’s heritage through its restored courtyards. It now houses art galleries, cafés, and cultural centers that celebrate Emirati traditions while blending old and new Dubai.

View:
Dubai Creek Harbour is hard to beat. With its calm waterfront and panoramic skyline views, it’s one of the best spots to watch the sunset and take in the contrast between the city’s historic roots and its modern rise.

The city's soundtrack
The sound of Dubai is its people—the energy, the movement, the constant buzz of conversations in countless languages. It’s the hum of traffic, the rhythm of everyday life, and the blend of cultures that give the city its pulse and unmistakable vibrancy.

Feel it for yourself
The most hands-on way to experience Dubai is through the desert—it’s where the essence of the UAE truly comes alive. There’s something grounding about feeling the fine, golden sand between your fingers or beneath your feet, surrounded by silence and endless dunes. It’s a reminder of the country’s roots, its beauty in simplicity, and the calm that exists just beyond the city’s fast pace.

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Escape to: Dubai