INTO MIDDLE EAST
Hidden freebies: cool finds in the heat
• Coffee Museum, Al Fahidi Tucked into Bastakiya’ s shaded lanes, this museum traces coffee’ s global journey. Go in the morning, for cooler walking between exhibits.
• Camel Museum, Al Shindagha A surprisingly charming tribute to the UAE’ s most iconic animal. Best tackled in the morning, before the mercury spikes.
• Heritage Village, Al Shindagha Step back into old Dubai with restored windtowers, craft stalls, and shaded courtyards. Early or late visits are the only way to dodge the heat.
• Grand Mosque, Bur Dubai One of the city’ s most striking mosques, and open for free tours( dress modestly). Beautiful stained glass, towering minarets, and a sense of calm. Go in the morn; it’ s cooler.
• Careem Bike Freebies( Event Days) During citywide fitness events like Dubai Ride, Careem and RTA roll out pop-up stations offering free bike rentals. Not year-round, but worth knowing if your trip overlaps.
Why families love it( and why you might, too)
Dubai has cracked the family code: airconditioned malls, over-the-top waterparks, shaded cultural pockets, and safety that reassures parents. The variety spans toddlers to teens, the value stretches further than you’ d think, and the sunshine is as guaranteed as SA’ s winter chill.
The bottom line? Dubai doesn’ t have to mean five-star splurges. With clever planning, South African families can tick off adventure, affordability, and brag-worthy memories – all in one go. The only thing you’ ll bring back that’ s heavier than your suitcase is your holiday scrapbook.
For more information: visitdubai. com
96 | SUMMER 2025 / 26 • rovesa. co. za