That skyscraper-studded star rising out of the Arabian Desert: better to believe your eyes, that's not a mirage – that’s Dubai! Incredible to think this was once just a fishing village on the shore of the Persian Gulf, only two hundred years ago.  Hard to imagine because, today, this most populous of the 7 United Arab Emirates, along with its sister city Abu Dhabi, is an exotic vacation destination designed (and effectively so) to trump all others: just marvel, for instance, at the 800 m tall Burj Dubai, a beautiful building towering above the desert.

Dubai has taken luxury to a whole new level for its tourism: it features the world's only 7 star hotel, indoor ski slopes (yes, real cold with real snow) within a shopping centre to dwarf most others and a golden length of elite beach called Jumeirah. Join the adventure of a desert safari (or rent a car of your own in Dubai), banter and barter in the souks markets or climb aboard an abras for a boat ride on the mighty creek. Chic restaurants and cosmopolitan clubs are packed with travellers and young professional from around the world. Obtain a cheap flight ticket to Dubai and land at Dubai International Airport (DBX).  Plus, book ahead to get a cheap hotel – and an available room – in Dubai.

*for 3 nights 3*hotel. Depending on flight+hotel availability, if booked one month in advance.

*Included in the price from EUR 479 per person: Flight + 3 nights in a double room at 3*hotel. Depending on the flight and hotel availability. Early booking is recommended.