Tag: middle east

Should you buy or rent a home in Dubai?

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Choosing between renting and buying a home is one of the biggest decisions most expatriates have to make in Dubai. Even though the market conditions seem to sway in favour of the buyers, it is still a very big decision facing most people. Currently, due to increased competition in the market, property prices are coming down. It is a ripe time for those looking to own a home in the UAE. On the other hand, rent prices are also favourable.

Here are some few factors you should consider when deciding to either buy or rent a home

1. Your stay

The first thing you need to consider is how long you are planning to stay in the country. Considering how long you are going to live in the country will help choose the most viable option.

Are you planning to spend the next ten years In the UAE? If you are planning to stay for a couple of years or permanently, buying a property may be a good option. On the other hand, if you are not absolutely sure about your stay, renting might be the best option.

2. Budget

Budget is an important factor that determines the choice you will make. If you have a reliable and steady source of income, buying a property may be easier. You will only need to make a minimum deposit of 25% and pay the balance in monthly instalments.

Before taking the liability of a tenancy contract, you should consider your financial position. However, if you are going to be making a monthly rent, why not pay towards owning a home? After some few years, you will be a property owner.

3. Market condition

It is very important to take a look at the property market before making any investment decision. Currently, the real estate market in the UAE is favouring buyers with strong ROI across the whole country.

Staying up-to-date with the market conditions will help you to make a better decision.  There is huge competition in the market and prices are falling significantly.

4. Level of control

The level of control you desire on your property may also influence your decision when choosing between buying and renting a property. For example, owning property gives you control over modification and customization especially when buying off plan property in Dubai.

Damac Towers by Paramount Hotels and Resort is a development that comprises of a hotel and residency towers. It is developed by Paramount Hotels in conjunction with Damac Properties.  The best part is that the residential suites are sold off plan at affordable prices which expats can also invest in.

Residents in Dubai are raving about these 3 neighbourhoods

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From the world’s biggest hotel, tallest building to the largest shopping mall, Dubai is packed with some of the most amazing destinations in the world. The large population of expatriates is an indication that the city is a preferred destination. In addition, the low crime rate is attracting a lot of people to live and work in the city.

Here are the top three residential places in Dubai

1. Arabian Ranches

The Arabian Ranches villas and townhouse is developed by Emaar Properties. It is a prestigious community that will offer residents with an exceptionally comfortable living environment. The project features Arabic architecture that is complemented with European sophistication and is placed in 700 thousand acres of land.

Since it is located next to Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, residents will access key locations within the city with ease. There is a natural and unspoiled setting that will provide homeowners with utmost privacy and seclusion combined with exemplary services and sporting activities. Among these are swimming pools, parks, basketball and tennis courts, and walking trails among others.

On top of that, there is a world class golf course and prestigious Polo and Equestrian club near the project. For those with kids, there are special children’s swimming pools and numerous play areas. Arabian ranches offer the ultimate lifestyle in the desert.

2. Emaar Beachfront

Located between Palm Jumeirah and JBR, the Emaar Beachfront is set to bring ‘Miami lifestyle’ to Dubai. Some of the residential developments on the beach include the Beach Vista, Sunrise Bay, and Marina Vista. The whole project will have approximately twenty-seven towers each with its own private beach.

All the towers have been designed with a contemporary flair with floor to ceiling windows in order to maximize the view of the sea and the city. Most of the towers comprise of between one to four bedrooms apartments that will offer the best coastal opulence.

3. Dubai Creek Harbour

The Dubai Creek Harbour is an iconic waterfront situated on the banks of the Dubai Creek. This project is a pioneer of integrated living featuring a perfect combination of dynamic experiences, innovation, and unique designs. It is a perfect mix of world-class living that is connected with excellent transport links. This development promises residents and visitors a serene environment that is close to water and stunning surroundings.

Lights, Glamour, Action at this project in Dubai

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Hollywood may seem far away but it’s just right around the corner. Literally! Paramount Tower Hotel & Residences has been crafted as more than just a destination. It’s a living, breathing world driven by imagination. It’s where anything is possible.

If you are a film fanatic or want to live the life of a Hollywood star? Find out more on Paramount Tower Hotel and Residences here:

The 63-storey tower consists of retail on the ground floor and a hotel, which has levels 15 to 25,  has a selection of beautiful rooms and suites that is tailored for comfort, and creativity that comes with an incredible experience for guests.

The hotel rooms or suites of Paramount Tower Hotel Dubai represent the signature of ultimate luxury with intelligent, attentive and intuitive hospitality style. It’s a whole package: premium dining, exquisite design, warm service, finest spa and more, which sets a rare standard in luxury hospitality.

Additionally, it provides an array of signature Paramount Hotels & Resorts amenities for both guests and residents.

Rooftop infinity pool with stunning views of the Burj area, restaurants and lounges, high-end retail outlets, fully-equipped gymnasium, fitness and wellness centre as well as rooftop terrace with seating and planting are some but not all key features and top-notch amenities.

Paramount Tower Hotel & Residences Dubai is perfectly positioned within the city of dreams. The 258 metres tall tower is in a supreme setting on the famous Sheikh Zayed Road allows guests or residents to consume the superb views of Dubai’s breathtaking view.

It is close to all the popular destinations such as the Dubai International Airport, Burj Khalifa, City Walk Dubai and more. In addition to the near areas, there are two metro stations close by.

This is in return, makes it a great investment opportunity for the discerning investor.

How to plan a wonderful vacation to Dubai

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As anyone who intends on travelling the world already knows, going somewhere for the first time can be a daunting prospect. The amount of research and planning involved is staggering and even then, you might not be fully prepared for the culture shock that awaits you there. From food to traditions to clothing, everything is different when you are travelling to an entirely new place. And Dubai is no different. So, in case you are planning on travelling there anytime soon, here is a list of few things that should help you plan your trip with relative ease:

How to get there

We would suggest that you search for some cheap flights to Dubai well in advance so that you can book them when the prices are lower than usual. You can take a flight directly to Dubai or fly first to Abu Dhabi and take a bus or a taxi from there. Abu Dhabi is about an hour away from Dubai. Check out the cheaper and more comfortable options and decide accordingly.

When should you go to Dubai

One of the most obvious things that people often forget about Dubai is how hot it is. Even their winters are way warmer than those in the US but are still more bearable than summers when temperatures soar up to about 105 degrees. People usually travel to Dubai during the winter months beginning from November and ending in March. This is also peak tourist season so the price of everything is higher than usual.

Where can you stay

As you must have already expected, Dubai is brimming with hotels and resorts. Most of these places offer expensive and luxurious experiences. But you can check out room sharing, couch surfing and dormitory options from Airbnb. You may like a place close to Burj Khalifa or the Jumeirah Beach but remember that these will be more expensive than places that are situated a little away from major tourist spots.

Local travel

Since weekdays in Dubai start on Sundays and end on Thursdays, Friday and Saturday are the official weekends here. This obviously affects the local traffic, with traffic during office hours being especially slow.

If you are taking a cab, we suggest that you opt for the regular ones instead of the Lexus. The Lexus cabs cost more because they are technically luxury cabs. Before getting in a taxi, you should also check if the taxi has a metre or not. Or you can directly ask the driver how much it would cost to get from one point to another and decide accordingly.

If you have time and want to save money, we suggest opting for the metro instead of taxis. Dubai has a smooth and efficient metro system that can get you to any point in the city without the prospect of traffic jams. But they are usually very crowded during weekdays so you should check if you are comfortable with that. If you have to change trains to get somewhere, it will take more time than usual so decide accordingly.

Four Tips that Will Help You Enjoy Dubai to its Fullest

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There are many vacation destinations that you can book your trip to, arrive, and just kind of go with the flow. Chances are you won’t need to do too much planning or research ahead of time, and you may even be perfectly content to stay on the hotel or resort grounds the entire trip. A vacation to Dubai is not that kind of trip.

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If you’ve got an upcoming trip booked to Dubai, or you’re considering it for your next vacation destination, then there are a few tips you’re going to want to keep in mind which will help ensure you enjoy the city to the fullest extent.

Understand There is Lots to See and Do

Most people think of the modern buildings and cityscape when they think of Dubai, and while this does exist and it’s a large part of what makes the destination world-famous, there is also a lot more to Dubai. Sticking to the downtown core won’t allow you to fully appreciate the destination and get your true money’s worth.

For these reasons it’s a good idea to spend some time researching Dubai and the surrounding area in advance. It’s a good way to learn if there are any other areas you want to visit that you can reach from Dubai, and what’s just outside the city limits.

Consider Renting a Car

Another tip that can help elevate your experience is to opt for a car rental Dubai. This will allow you to go ahead and take those little trips out of town, and experience more than just the city. For those who are staying for a longer period of time, such as business travellers who need to be there for a month or more, renting a car is much more cost-effective then paying for car services everywhere you go.

Be Aware of the Weather

The weather is something that people don’t always consider when booking a trip to Dubai, but picking the right time of year to visit can make a huge difference in the quality of your trip. Ideally you want to visit Dubai sometime between mid-October to mid-April. Clear skies, sunshine, and moderate temperatures are the norm for this time of year.

Meanwhile from late-April to early-October it is summer season in Dubai, which is incredibly hot. It gets so hot there that you won’t be able to be outdoors, which means you can’t visit the desert, theme parks, and even the beaches thanks to the extreme heat.

Get Out and Explore the Cuisine

Rather than just sticking to the meals offered in your hotel, or the downtown core, get out there and explore Dubai’s food. You will find everything from luxurious restaurants to casual street fare. Dubai is also famous for offering a wide range of cuisine such as Afghan, Pakistani, India, Bangladeshi, Iranian, Yemeni, and Filipino.

Make it a Memorable Experience

Dubai is truly an incredible destination to visit with so much to offer tourists. With that said, these tips will help ensure that you make the absolute most of your trip.

Are You Planning to Visit the Dead Sea? Here’s What You shouldn’t Miss

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The Dead Sea is undoubtedly one of the most popular tourist attractions Israel has to offer, and for good reason. The Dead Sea is, in fact, the lowest place on earth, and its unique qualities make it a must-see while you’re in Israel. Not only is the Dead Sea hauntingly beautiful, with its many amazing beaches – it has also been proven to bring about health benefits due to its extreme salinity and high mineral content. But a visit to the Dead Sea isn’t just about lounging around on the beach and having a few drinks – if you really want to make the most of your holiday to the Dead Sea, here’s what you shouldn’t miss.

The Masada National Park

The Masada National Park overlooks the Dead Sea, and the views from this area are simply breathtaking. You can reach the Masada ruins and the park via cable car, although if you’re feeling up to a bit of activity, you can hike there as well. The plateau on top of the park is about 60 meters above sea level, and it measures around 550 meters by 270 meters. The Masada ruins are the site of a siege which took place centuries ago, and its story is definitely something worth knowing.

Ein Gedi Nature Reserve

If you want something equally spectacular, you should make it a point to visit the Ein Gedi Nature Reserve, and if you’ve never seen a wadi before, this will definitely take your breath away. The Nature Reserve has two canyons, Wadi Arugot and Wadi David, and each canyon has a separate entrance. If you’re looking for physical activity, you can take a hike to Wadi Arugot, which has fewer crowds compared to Wadi David. Wadi Arugot features trails beside the streams, and although some trails may be a bit challenging, the scenery makes it more than worth it.

Qumran National Park

Qumran National Park has an important historical significance, as it is the site where the Dead Sea Scrolls were found. It is also the site of an ancient settlement which existed from around the time of Jesus until approximately 68 AD. Qumran National Park has an elevated walkway from where you can see the channels, the aqueduct, and even the cisterns used by the ancient community. Other interesting sights in Qumran National Park include the ritual baths, the scriptorium, and the refectory (where the people ate their shared meals).

Ein Bokek Beach

Ein Bokek Beach is known for its long and broad shoreline, and it is a beach that’s open to the public. Ein Bokek Beach also features a beautiful promenade along with shelters from the sun, showers in the open air, changing rooms, gym facilities, and bathrooms.

Image attributed to Pixabay.com

No Need for Persuasion: Teenagers Will Love Coming to Dubai With You

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Teens can be too cool for a lot of things. It’s not that they have bad attitudes. Sometimes, the way things are presented makes a big difference.

Think of your kids as potential buyers of a vacation getaway. How would you pitch an exotic destination like Dubai, filled with sun, sand, and sites unseen anywhere else in the world? There’s no need for persuasion when you’re talking Dubai.

Get Their Feet Wet

The first destination is not foreign to most teens. Most major areas in the US and UK have access to one or more water parks, so going to the Atlantis park or Wild Wadi shouldn’t be a unique concept. But the Atlantis park isn’t just a waterpark with slides. It hosts rare fish and mammals – even sharks!

Get Really High

The Burj Khalifa is a massive building. The observation decks are open to the public as well as any teen who has the stomach to take in the amazing yet jaw-dropping sites from this mammoth that hosts over 150 floors.

Hop in a Balloon

There are several ways to see Dubai. The creative opts for hot air balloon rides. One can see the vastness of the desert, the contours of the land, and the bustle of the outskirts and middle of cities from above. Early morning ballooners get to see the sunrise like never before. Book your ride in advance or from the comfort of your JW Marriott Hotel, Dubai luxury room.

Get to the Mall

Most parents witnessed the once greatness that was the UK and American malls. The behemoth caverns of retail outlets are harder to find these days yet the business model is thriving in Dubai. A lot of today’s teens never got to see what it was like in a 90’s mall. It was a grand shopping experience and one you can replicate today in Dubai.

Take to the Ice

It’s a bit ironic to head to an ice rink in a land that features temperatures unseen in many other places in the world but the rink affords time for teens to socialize with others their age and mom and dad to be alone.

Play Tag

Of course, any teen would roll their eyes at the mention of a game of tag. Yet the Oasis Center Mall hosts a super cool Lazer Tag arena, where kids zap other family members who hide, duck and weave throughout the game maze.

Go Offroad

Tell your teen you’re all going on a 4×4 offroading adventure and that should pique their interest. Book your safari tour through a number of vendors. Some offer other amenities such as food and a tour of the inner cities.

See the Dolphins

Some feature flower gardens and other have koi ponds, but Umm Hurrair has a Dolphinarium. You’ll have access to watersports, boat tours, and of course, a chance to swim with the dolphins. The site has food, game centers, and enough to do for the entire afternoon.

Get Skydiving

The Skydive Dubai Desert Campus is the place for indoor skydiving. It’s a thrill that few facilities around the world offer. It’s an intense experience that is safe enough for teens and the entire family. The site promises world-class skydiving without the need of a plane.

What To See And Do In Jordan

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If you have been trying to think of the best place to go for a holiday, something that mixes adventure and relaxation with a bit of history then look no further than Jordan. Jordan is placed right in the heart of the Middle East, but unlike some of its neighbours it’s retained a peaceful, welcoming and safe atmosphere and is a hot tourist country for those looking to come enjoy Middle Eastern hospitality alongside some truly awe inspiring sights. Read ahead to learn why you should visit Jordan now!

Desert Tours – Wadi Rum

Undoubtedly, Jordan has some of the most beautiful deserts around, and Wadi Rum is one of the best. Vast stretches of open sand and sky, dotted with some of the most impressive rock formations make Wadi Rum, in the south of Jordan one of the most visited areas of the country. Add to it the fact this area has been inhabited since neolithic times, with some rock paintings and carvings in the cliff faces to showcase this fact and you have one of the best experiences in Jordan. Join a tour out here to Bedouin camps and enjoy a night under the vast sky of stars and authentic entertainment and food by your Bedouin hosts.

Petra, The Treasury and Other Desert Treats

Petra is another of the most visited locations in Jordan, north of Wadi Rum, but south of Amman. This beautiful town and the historic Treasury – the famed carving in the sheer rock face – are two absolute must sees in Jordan and will leave you breathless at their beauty and make your imagination run wild.

The region around Ajlun, and the Desert Castles is equally breathtaking, including a castle built by Saladin as well as nature reserves and other historic archaeological sites of interest.

The Dead Sea and Biblical History

Regardless of your faith or your belief in the history surrounding the Bible and Jesus, the Dead Sea and its affiliated locations of Jesus’ Baptism at Bethany beyond the Jordan (modern day Bethabara) is a location near to Amman which is the believed site of Jesus’ Baptism by John the Baptist. A beautiful setting of a rich pool of water, and lovely desert surroundings, this makes a lovely place to visit, regardless of your faith.

So there you have a couple of great reasons to visit Jordan and take advantage of this historic and beautiful Middle Eastern country. Pack your bags and book that ticket – Jordan awaits!