A CITY OF TWO HALVES

There's a holiday for every budget to be found in Dubai, as OK!'s Faith Richardson discovered

- FAITH RICHARDSON

Dubai is often thought of as a holiday destination for the rich and famous, but I discovered two totally different sides on a short trip to this fascinating city, with activities to suit every budget from an authentic Emirati brunch that won't break the bank to an afternoon lounging on a lavish yacht.

LUXE FOR LESS

Dubai conjures up images of towering skyscrapers, luxury beach clubs and busy city life, but on the outskirts of the city I found a much more peaceful, low-key atmosphere.

Staying in the Hilton-owned AI Seef Heritage Hotel gave me a totally new perspective on the city I'd previously only seen in films and Instagram posts. The hotel buildings are spread out through a winding maze of small streets along the banks of Dubai Creek, giving you the feeling that you've stepped back in time.

The rooms combine traditional Middle Eastern decor with ornate but modern furnishings, and you have access to all the usual Hilton facilities, such as a spa, swimming pool and fitness centre.

A gorgeous (and affordable) place to stay is one thing, but could I really make the most of visiting Dubai on a budget? Yes, it turns out. A trip to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) not only gave me the chance to learn about the history of the city and the Emirati culture, but a full brunch spread of traditional food and Arabic tea and coffee was included in the £27 ticket price.