Taking Home Exotic Pets

The possession of exotic animals, such as leopards and cheetahs, has long been a symbol of power and status in the Middle East. People frequently showed off their baby tigers and lions in their autos or boats, even letting them run free on the beach.

But in 2017, the United Arab Emirates passed a law prohibiting people from owning wild animals. Anyone involved in the ownership or sale of such creatures, a long-standing tradition, faces imprisonment or a massive fine of $136K. Authorities established the strictly enforced law to protect these feral animals and keep the people of Dubai safe.

Their Own Gold ATM

Are we even surprised that the first-ever gold ATM was unveiled in Dubai? Located in the prestigious Emirates Palace Hotel, the vending machine dispenses small gold bars instead of cash like a regular ATM. It was created in Germany and featured a live display of the rates for one-, five-, and ten-gram-worth bars.

The machine has attracted much attention since its installation in May 2010, with visitors flocking to the hotel to get a glimpse of the novelty item. As a testament to the combination of innovation and opulence the city is known for, it showcases its commitment to pushing boundaries and creating new experiences.

Spaces For Camel Parking

Dubai is a bustling, affluent metropolis situated within a desert landscape. For this reason, it is not unusual to see domesticated camels walking in the city. Even in parking lots, these remarkable animals can be spotted standing alongside luxury cars like Bentleys and Ferraris.

It is quite a funny sight, with their owners simply running errands while the camels patiently wait. It's perhaps a sign of the wealth and excess of the place that owning a camel is considered normal. In any case, it is an interesting sight that can be found in the most populated city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

The Most Luxurious Bathrooms

Dubai is synonymous with extravagance, and its palatial bathrooms are no exception. They are often much larger than those found in other regions of the globe, often taking up the space of a small apartment. This is something that arouses curiosity in many people who are keen to know how the affluent are living.

One of the world's most luxurious bathrooms is located in the XXII Carat Club Villas in Dubai, and it is truly jaw-dropping. The bathroom features a dazzling marble interior and a $1M Amazonian rock crystal tub. It is an opulent space unlike any other and proves that the sky is the limit in Dubai.

Golden Cellular Devices

It is not unusual to see golden items throughout the city of Dubai. However, one of the rarest sights one can encounter is a solid gold cellular device. This begs the question, how heavy would this be to carry in one's pocket?

In April 2019, the brand Caviar unveiled its Tsar collection, paying homage to the founders of nations and dynasties. Out of the series, seven 'Gold Sheikh' gadgets were released, each representing the seven emirates of the UAE. These rare cellular devices come with a hefty price tag of $37K. It's made with a hexagonal design embellished with engravings and diamonds.

The Widest Cars!

The wealthy have a habit of customizing their possessions, and this includes their vehicles. One example is a rare sight of two jeeps attached together side by side. The franken-Jeep Wranger takes up a lane and a half of the road, making it impractical and difficult to maneuver.

This sweeping SUV carries up to eight passengers—four in the front and the same amount in the back. It is debatable whether it is reasonable to own such a ride, but it certainly gets people talking when visitors come over. According to the Complex website, these double-wide Jeep Wranglers also ruled Moroccan streets.

Taking That Camel For A Walk

The United Arab Emirates is a hotspot for vacationers, and it’s no surprise why. The country is made up of 80% desert, making it a great place to explore the beauty of sand dunes. For folks looking to get a more unique experience, camel trekking is a popular pastime for locals and tourists alike.

Those lucky enough to own a camel can traverse the dunes with their pet, while those without can join guided tours on the back of this animal. While walking this domesticated camel, this man in a Mercedes Benz SUV certainly caught everyone's attention. We can only assume that the man was trying to beat the desert heat.

Jacked-Up Police Cars

Dubai is well-known for being a paradise for automobile lovers and their supercars; their officers are no exception. In addition to their regular police autos, their law enforcement department has some of the fastest and most impressive rides on the market.

The authorities have been seen driving around in an Aston Martin "One-77," a Lamborghini "Aventador," and the most remarkable one in the fleet, a Bugatti "Veyron," with a top speed of 253 miles per hour. In February 2020, the Dubai-based W Motors company added a bulletproof SUV dubbed the Beast Patrol to the police's already impressive collection of vehicles.

Horses Get Deluxe Stalls

The United Arab Emirates is a nation with a rich history of horse riding, which explains why it has become one of its most popular sports. The ones used in this sport are given the best care and accommodations, like these extraordinary stables, which resemble five-star hotels.

From the outside, this pen appears to be opulent and grand, with lavish chandeliers and marble floors. But even with its grandeur, its interior still smells like a farm. This is just one example of the unique and outlandish things that can be found in Dubai. This country is truly a sight, from the horses to their luxurious lodgings!

The Grandest Hotel Accommodations

Speaking of accommodations, visiting Dubai is an opportunity to stay in some of the city's most magnificent hotel rooms. From the grandeur of the Burj Al Arab, the seventh tallest hotel in the world, to others in the same lane, visitors can find grand interior designs that they won't find anywhere else.

The Burj Al Arab is known for being a five-star resort and offers an extravagant experience, with 24-karat golden-leafed walls and chauffeur assistance provided by Rolls Royce. The hotel is attentive to its guests' needs and has 24-hour butler service. It's also so exclusive that it has its own helipad.

Free Food For The Unfortunate

In 2013, the Ansar Mall in Dubai presented an unprecedented charitable project where individuals with no cash or who were jobless could acquire food without cost. During Ramadan, they provided an assortment of various foodstuffs, like fresh yogurt and Arabic bread, to lend a hand to the underprivileged.

Although the mall did not stop anyone from taking advantage of this offer, even those with luxury cars, such as Mercedes and BMWs, made use of it. Nonetheless, we think this is an outstanding action to support those who are disadvantaged. Two thumbs up to the land whose official religion is Islam!

A Demand For Grooms

In the United Arab Emirates, arranged marriages are a common practice and are sometimes seen as an indication of a reliable merging of families and an eternal bond of love. This may seem unusual to Western culture, as it is sometimes viewed as oppression or cruelty.

To give you an idea, fathers often post advertisements in newspapers like this one to arrange a marriage between their children and a wealthy family. It is unknown whether these marriages will be successful or not. Still, according to The National News website, the success rate of arranged marriages in the UAE is higher than average.

They've Got Unusual Motorbikes

Wealthy locals in Dubai have a special kind of power status, which is often reflected in how they modify their vehicles. From gold-plating cars to doubling the size of SUVs, it is not a surprise to spot out-of-the-ordinary automobiles in the city.

In this photo, a man took his custom horse-themed motorcycle for a ride. It was unusual in design, and the gentleman wore a matching outfit. Such an eye-catching sight has surely gained a lot of attention from passers-by. The capital of the Emirate of Dubai is no stranger to extravagant and bizarre sights, and this particular one is no exception.

Ride Public Limosines

Public limousines are one of the most impressive things you can experience in Dubai. They are a luxurious form of transportation, offering a comfortable ride and an elegant way to travel. These vehicles are typically driven by a chauffeur, who will be dressed in a suit and tie. They come in various sizes, from small sedans to long-stretch limousines.

The cost of a limousine ride in Dubai can be quite expensive, with passengers enjoying the comfort of the air-conditioned cabins and often having access to amenities such as a flat-screen TV or Wi-Fi. The driver typically offers a smooth ride, allowing passengers to relax and enjoy the scenery.

Supercar Rush Hour

Dubai's traffic jams are on an entirely different level! The roads are frequently filled with the latest supercars and luxury vehicles, making it look like an exclusive motor show. It is almost as if the motorcars are being used as a display of social status. However, this is not some grand exhibition, but rather the typical lunchtime rush hour.

Despite the glitz and glamor of these vehicles, the traffic jams here are still as congested as in any other highly populated city. Nevertheless, the citizens of this metropolis have a unique approach to transportation, bringing a little extra sparkle to their everyday lives.

No Fish In Transit

If you're taking the train in Dubai, you may stumble across an unexpected sign. It features a fish with a bright red slashed circle over it, commonly seen at the Palm Deira station, located right next to the fish market. This peculiar sign alerts travelers of the Dubai Metro's by-laws, prohibiting carrying any animal except guide dogs.

Like in any other country, one must be aware of the rules and regulations that mandate what one can and cannot bring onto public transportation. While it is indeed a unique sign, it serves an important purpose for those who are visiting the area, no doubt because of its smell in the heat of the UAE.

Land Of High-Rise Skyscrapers

Dubai is an incredible city, home to many of the world's tallest skyscrapers, giving it an impressive and futuristic skyline that is distinctive in the Middle East. The most well-known of these structures is the Burj Khalifa, which stands 828 meters tall and is the world's tallest building as of 2023.

It even surpassed the Taipei 101 building in Taiwan, making it the world's tallest man-made structure. This was part of the government's plan to diversify away from its oil-based economy and focus more on tourism. With its modern architecture, Dubai is truly a striking destination that leaves its visitors in awe.

Ornate Starbucks Like No Other

Starbucks, the world's largest coffee chain, is well-known to many people. As of November 2021, the company has over 34,000 stores in over 80 countries. When one visits the Starbucks in the Battuta Mall in Dubai, they are in for a surprise.

The usual Starbucks aesthetic is nowhere to be found, as the design is much more intricate and extravagant. Its ceiling is domed, and the overall design resembles a palace! This branch of the Seattle-based coffeehouse chain is definitely a sight to be seen, and one can only imagine the other wonders that this metropolis has to offer.

Authorities Use Super Boats

We already know that the Dubai police have an impressive collection of vehicles, but it's the first time we're mentioning this $400K super boat gifted by the Dubai Crown Prince, Sheikh Hamdan. It's designed to resemble a Lamborghini, boasting 700 horsepower and built with the same light carbon fiber materials used in racing cars, reported to be the fastest police boat in the world.

From the outside, this sleek, powerful speedster looks as though it could be mistaken for a luxury yacht. The remarkable vessel is equipped with the latest navigation and communication tech so law enforcement officers can quickly respond to emergency calls and patrol the city's waters.

Home Of The Highest Tennis Court

Who would've thought that a passion for intricate architecture would lead to the creation of this fantastical tennis court located over 1,000 feet from the ground? This was originally a helipad on top of the Burj Al Arab hotel that was transformed into something truly extraordinary.

This court has become a remarkable attraction for tennis players who are looking for an exciting and unique experience. In 2005, two famous tennis stars, Roger Federer and Andre Agassi were invited to play a friendly game on this court, and they must've enjoyed their time because of the breathtaking view that surrounded them.

Surfboard Kayaking Is A Thing

The people of Dubai have a deep reverence for their faith and culture, and their choice of clothing epitomizes this. Even when engaging in recreational activities, such as water sports, the locals remain fully clothed out of respect for Islamic traditions.

Among the water sports were talking about is surfboard kayaking, which has become a popular pastime for visitors and locals alike. It has a number of similarities to surfboard surfing but with boats devised for use in surf zones and with a paddle. A few kayak designs are used, though all are aimed at better utilizing the waves to move the craft.

Want To Ski In The Desert?

'Skiing' and 'desert' are words not usually found together in the same sentence, yet it is possible to ski in the deserts of Dubai. The Majid Al Futtaim Group is behind the construction of this unique resort, Ski Dubai, covering an area of 22,500 square meters and has five runs.

It is remarkable how the resort was designed to look like a typical ski lodge; to top it off, this amazing experience is available throughout the year. The Ski Dubai ticket price may vary depending on the activities, but one can expect to pay a fee of around $50 to $150.

A Place For Full-Moon Drum Circles

Beaches from this metropolis may surprise beachgoers with a memorable event that occurs every full moon—a drum circle! People come together to bang on their drums and absorb the energy of Mother Earth in a stimulating manner.

Those who attend these gatherings say that it is a great stress reliever and often invite others to join in. Those lucky enough to participate in the full moon festivities may even get the chance to see fire dancers in action. For those who would like to partake in the drum circle while visiting the UAE, prearranging the experience is the best way to go.

This Monumental Mall Aquarium

The city of Dubai is famed for its impressive malls, with a total of over 40 of them. The Dubai Mall is deemed one of the world's largest, and its sheer size allows it to house a number of remarkable things, like a dinosaur skeleton and a gold ATM.

The aquarium at the mall is also a must-see, filled with unique sea life, ranging from sharks to octopi. For those who feel brave, you can take the plunge and swim with these creatures. In addition to the aquarium, the mall also offers its own movie theater, the world’s largest candy store, and an indoor theme park.

Experience An Underwater Zoo

The Dubai Mall has an impressive underwater zoo next to its aquarium. This unique location features a variety of creatures, including jellyfish, piranhas, and even crocodiles. The layout of the place is similar to that of a rainforest, so much so that you may forget you're actually in a shopping mall.

For those who are feeling brave, there is even an opportunity to come face-to-face with sharks in a cage. After the adrenaline rush, shoppers are free to treat themselves to some of the luxury items the mall has to offer. This is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shouldn't be missed!

Racing For Camels

Camel racing is one of the most unique and fascinating events in the eponymous capital of one of the UAE's seven emirates. It demands a great deal of time and effort to prepare the animals for the sport. In order to ensure their success, trainers have to pay special attention to their training and nutrition.

The robots mounted on the camels are equipped with advanced techs such as walkie-talkies, GPS, and other devices. The Al Marmoom racing track is the largest, and the racing season usually occurs between October and April of each year. This sport captivates tourists from all over the world.

Dubai's First-Ever Golden Motorcycle

In 2013, Danish manufacturer Lauge Jensen stunned audiences when they unveiled the world's most expensive motorcycle in Dubai. The grand opening of Gulf of Motorcycles offered the best backdrop for the launch of the golden bike, a thoughtfully crafted piece that exuded extravagance.

The eye-catching design, complete with crocodile-skin upholstery and 250 diamonds totaling seven karats, was sold for a staggering $850K. It was a statement of opulence, with its gleaming golden body, luxurious leather seats, and sparkling adornments. The motorbike, called Goldfinger,  was the perfect embodiment of all the finer things in life, proving that the metropolis is a site of extraordinary things.

Limos As Ambulance Service

One unexpected and peculiar concept found in Dubai is the limousine ambulance. It is specially designed to provide comfort and various facilities to patients in need. It is not available to the public on a daily basis but only to specific medical facilities.

This service has been termed 'Awnak' and is meant to give peace of mind as it can accommodate a large number of loved ones, unlike traditional ambulances. Although it is not something we hope to need, it is still important to be aware of it. This unique concept represents how Dubai is not afraid to think outside the box.

Take A Bite Off Of A Gold Cupcake

By now, we're no longer shocked that UAE residents or Emiratis have found a way to add a touch of gold to almost everything. Many golden items can be found in Dubai, from motorcycles to cell phones. It was only a matter of time before the food started to be included in the gold collection.

The Golden Phoenix cupcake is one of the most decadent items available in Dubai. It is made with Italian cocoa and wrapped in a 23-karat sheet. First introduced in 2004 at The Dubai Mall, this dessert has gained immense popularity and can be ordered 48 hours in advance.

Visit The Dubai Miracle Garden

The Dubai Miracle Garden is an amazing feat of design and cultivation in the harsh desert climate of the city. Initially launched on Valentine's Day in 2013, it covers a staggering 75,000 square meters and is home to over 50 million flowers.

The intense heat and lack of rainfall make it difficult to cultivate plants in Dubai, making the Miracle Garden even more of an impressive attraction. It is open to the public during the cooler season between October and April and is an absolute must-see for anyone visiting the city. From the vast array of vibrant hues to intricate patterns, it is a paradise for tourists and locals alike.

Two Words: Burj Khalifa!

The cosmopolitan city of Dubai is renowned for its stunning architecture, and when it comes to buildings, the higher it is the better. This is demonstrated by the famous Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. It was inaugurated in 2010, breaking multiple records for its incredible height.

The $2-billion construction was built to gain international attention and put Dubai on the map. It was designed with a unique 'Y' shape to ensure it could withstand the strong winds of its towering height. It is no surprise that the Burj Khalifa has become an iconic symbol of modernity and a must-see destination for tourists.

They Have Air-Conditioned Bus Stops

If you do not belong to the affluent elite who possess Lamborghinis, there is no need to worry. In 2007, Dubai made headlines by introducing air-conditioned bus stops, an excellent idea in the scorching desert heat since it helps keep those unfamiliar with the climate cool.

Visitors to Dubai can take advantage of these unique bus stops the same way the locals do. With the intense warmth of the desert, these air-conditioned bus stops are a welcome addition to the city. They can fit a relatively large number of people and have the added bonus of having vending machines and ATMs.

Check Out This Iced Out Mercedes

Mercedes-Benz vehicles have long been coveted for their luxurious designs and high price tags. In Dubai, however, it's possible to take a ride to the next level with some truly unique customizations. Take Al-Waleed bin Talal, reported by Forbes to have an estimated net worth of $20-billion, for example.

The Saudi prince had his covered with over 300,000 diamonds, costing him about $4.8M. As per the Economic Times website, he got it for his 38th birthday. This specific "SL600" was unveiled at an exhibition in 2006. And for anyone who wants to touch this model of extreme extravagance, they must pay $1K.

Stacking Turtle Towers

Let's return to Dubai's fascination with exotic creatures. This time, this photo grabbed our attention because of how these turtles were stacked to seemingly get closer to the sun. Unfortunately, these reptiles are critically endangered, so it is important to be careful with how we handle them.

During the 2022 Sea Turtle Day, 21 endangered hawksbills released in Dubai. On top of that, the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project has rehabilitated an amazing 1,600 turtles, releasing them back into their natural habitat. As per the Jumeirah website, this center located at Jumeirah Al Naseem have done this since being established in 2004.

A Bugatti For Uber

Uber is a car service company that is known around the world. However, the firm offers a superior experience in Dubai: the ability to travel by helicopter via UberChopper, which costs $141 per person for a group of six people.

With what we've learned about this metropolis, it makes sense that one may get a Bugatti "Veyron" instead of a normal auto when booking a ride. YouTube prankster Coby Persin did this by greeting unsuspecting Sheikh Zayed Road customers with that same luxury vehicle. The luxuriousness of Dubai and the convenience of Uber make it a unique experience that many would like to try.

Where Else Can You Drive On Water?

Have you seen this incredible photo? It appears to be a scene from a thrilling movie, but it's actually a real-life moment that happened in Dubai. It's no secret that the wealthy and famous own luxurious yachts and boats, but what about a water automobile? This type of vehicle has the ability to switch from land to water with ease.

Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the proud owner of six of these rides, with a value of approximately $800K. These aquatic autos are sure to provide an exciting experience, as it's clear that they are the perfect combination of fun and luxury!

Choppers For Fleeing Traffic

Dubai, like many developed cities, can get congested. However, what is surprising is that people living in skyscrapers have seen automobiles being taken to the sky by helicopter. It is probably because wealthy Emiratis would rather use their money to save time than sit in traffic.

This is a unique experience to have in Dubai, as it is not common in other cities around the world. After all, it is unlikely to find this in cities like New York or Paris. Thus, it is no surprise that Dubai has become a top destination for travelers, receiving 14.36 million international overnight visitors in 2022.

The 24K Magic Rage

We've got another example of how Dubai residents love customizing their vehicles to show off their wealth. And, of course, it involves the only metal that's yellow or "golden." You guessed it right, as this place isn't called the "City of Gold" for nothing!

A Jeep "Grand Cherokee" may not have been able to compete with the Ferraris and Lamborghinis, so one owner decided to make it stand out by giving it a 24-karat paint job. When out and about in Dubai, it is advisable to wear sunglasses, as these gold-wrapped cars are sure to reflect a lot of sunlight.

Forget About Louboutins

The French designer brand Christian Louboutin is renowned for its signature red bottoms. This iconic footwear is often referred to in the music industry as a luxury item and is now loved by many celebrities such as Rihanna and Angelina Jolie.

However, the fashion-forward people of Dubai have taken the glamor to the next level, donning their feet in golden cassette heels. These exquisite shoes are a symbol of extravagance and social status, with the sound of the heels on a marble floor echoing a sense of opulence. These golden pumps are the perfect accessory for a powerful woman who can afford them.

Aircraft Flying Falcons

The falcon, United Arab Emirates' national bird, symbolizes courage and power as part of the Arabian culture. As displayed in this photograph, they soar majestically above the Persian Gulf. Falconry has long been a sport in the Middle East, with historical roots that traverse centuries, spreading it to ancient Rome and Persia during their trading expeditions.

In the UAE, these birds are held in high regard and are even allowed to fly on commercial planes. They even have their own passports! One can only wonder what television shows they watch during their flights; perhaps "The Falcon and the Winter Soldier" is a favorite?