For NARGIS Magazine, I recently spent some time in Dubai, and what a city it is. It’s one of those places that grabs you right away with its mix of tradition and a super-modern vibe. Everywhere you go, there’s this feeling that something exciting is just around the corner, from the buzzing streets to the quiet moments that catch you by surprise. It’s the kind of place that makes you want to slow down, look around, and just be in it. This story is my way of sharing a little piece of that magic with you.
Dubai is such a city of contrasts, and that’s exactly what made this trip so unforgettable. There are moments when it feels enormous and alive, and other moments when it feels quiet and almost peaceful, and I loved experiencing both. One of the first places that really took my breath away was Aura Skypool on the 50th floor of Palm Tower. It’s the highest 360° infinity pool in the world. I just stopped for a while and watched the city move below me. It wasn’t about taking photos or ticking something off a list; it was a rare moment to pause and really take it all in. Being up there made me think about Dubai in a way I hadn’t before. How can a city grow so fast and still feel so alive? Every building, every street, every little light below seemed like part of a huge, moving story. I watched the sky slowly change colours as the sun began to set, and in that quiet, I realised I wanted to see the city from a different angle, to feel it stretching out in every direction, not just floating above it.
That’s how I came to Burj Khalifa a little later. Standing on the 124th and 125th floors, the city below suddenly seemed tiny, streets like threads, cars like little toys, and the desert stretching endlessly beyond.From up there, Dubai felt even more vast and bold, a city constantly reaching for the sky. It was hard not to be awed, but in the best way, that mix of excitement and calm that you get when you’re seeing something extraordinary.
Back on the ground, the city shifts completely. Dubai Mall is a whole other world – energetic, busy, and almost overwhelming in the best way. The giant aquarium with sharks swimming above you, waterfalls in the middle of the mall, and endless little corners to explore make it feel like a mini city inside a city. I found myself wandering without a plan, just taking in the movement of people from all over the world,each enjoying Dubai in their own way.
The soft sand and gentle waves made it feel like a little escape from the city
One morning, I woke up and felt like I wanted something different, not just to look at Dubai, but to feel inspired, and I ended up at the Museum of the Future. The building itself is stunning; it looks like it belongs to another world, with its silver exterior and Arabic calligraphy flowing across the walls. Walking through the exhibits, I kept noticing small details that made me stop and think, questions about the future, sustainability, space, and how we live. It’s the kind of place that makes you reflect, long after you leave.
After visiting the Museum of the Future, I stopped for lunch at 11 Woodfire, and it was such a nice surprise. The food was really interesting, not the usual, simple dishes, but creative flavours cooked over real wood fire. I especially loved how everything had this smoky, natural taste, and even the vegetarian options were full of flavour. The restaurant itself felt cosy and relaxed, the kind of place where you can just enjoy your meal and take a little pause in the day.
After all the energy and big impressions, I needed a moment to slow down. Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach was exactly what I needed. The soft sand and gentle waves made it feel like a little escape from the city. I sat there for a long while, watching the waves and the changing sky; this reminded me that Dubai isn’t just towers and malls, it also has this peaceful side where you can just breathe. And speaking of Four Seasons – I stayed at Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre, which might be my favourite part of this trip. The hotel is modern and stylish, but it’s also very calm, like a little oasis in the middle of the city. My room had a perfect view of the Burj Khalifa, and waking up to that skyline every morning felt so special. There’s also a spa where you can completely switch off after long days out.
MINA Brasserie, which was right in my hotel, was really delicious; both breakfasts and dinners were always a treat. Mornings were light and pleasant, a nice way to start the day, and evenings were tasty and relaxing after walking around the city. Later, Luna Dubai became my little evening ritual. Sitting there with a cocktail, looking out at the city lights and the Burj Khalifa right in front of me, felt a bit magical, a perfect moment to pause, breathe, and take it all in. Dubai left me with so many different feelings – awe, excitement, calm, and inspiration. Some moments were loud and energetic, some quiet and simple, but all of them together made this trip unforgettable. It’s a city that moves fast, but if you let it, it also teaches you when to slow down, breathe, and just be in the moment.
