48 HOURS IN DUBAI

From the ethereal charms of old-world souks to post-modern malls that offer the earth, the desert rises to every occasion. Enjoy languorous beach hours, heartstopping adventure or simply bliss out at a gourmet haute spot. Here's looking at the old and the new.

- CHUMKI BHARADWAJ

As the glitzy neon arms of the unending skyline snake their way up to embrace the night skies, it’s difficult not to get starry-eyed. It isn’t just because you’re squinting to locate the crown on the world’s tallest building, but because Dubai is conceived and executed as a library of superlatives: the most glittering gold souk, the most luxurious hotels, the largest man-made island on the planet, The Palm, and even the world’s most extensive natural flower garden. It captures the grandiosity of Las Vegas, while retaining the exotica of the desert, in an oasis of indulgence whose Mission statement probably reads, ‘Nothing is Impossible’. More than a bumper sticker tagline, it breathes life into a ‘king size’ kind of vibe; a pulse that throbs with electricity that emboldens its skyline as much as it enchants the spectator. Trying to stitch together a two-day itinerary that does justice to its bounty is a tall ask, but this offers a sprinkling of some of the more compelling finds.

LAYOVER AT

Anantara World Islands Resort

Located on its own island just four km into the Arabian Gulf, beach pool villas (above) are the most preferred and deserve their own fan page.

DON’T MISS The Indian-Arabic restaurant Qamar, perfect for sunset dinners

Palazzo Versace

An escapist Eden with unfettered views of the Dubai creek, the hotel is steeped in classic Italian design, where each of the 215 rooms and suites bear testament to the flamboyant Versace brand. This is as fashionable as a hotel can be.

MOST LUXURIOUS STAY EXPERIENCE

The Imperial Suite