While continuing to experience prodigious growth, Dubai is firmly established as a world class destination. Spectacular architecture, glamorous beach resorts, fine restaurants, great service, year round sunshine, vibrant nightlife, major sporting events and of course some of the best shopping on the planet have secured Dubai’s position on many a vacation wish list.

As a hub which can be described as ‘arrived’ rather than ‘emerging’, Dubai has also proved an exciting place to do business. The city is the regional centre of companies in numerous commercial sectors and an increasingly popular venue for leading international conferences.

With its booming economy and high standard of living, this metropolis, where the desert meets the sea, has a tremendous amount to offer. And Dubai in winter holds extra appeal because the weather is fabulous, with warm days and balmy evenings. It’s just a fantastic time to visit! Recent days have seen the Dubai Shopping Festival whirl into action - an annual shopping, entertainment and cultural events extravaganza that draws people from around the world.

More than 40 malls and over 2,300 retail outlets participate, offering big cash discounts on everything from clothing to cars, jewellery to exotic carpets and electronics to furnishings. With the attractions of the Global Village, and entertainment at every turn including nightly reworks, music, laser and light shows, there’s a lot to do for the entire family.

In fact the whole city takes on a party atmosphere and does some serious spending! Dubai Shopping Festival opened on 20th December and runs till 2nd February.

The 2007 Dubai Desert Classic is a major highlight of the European golfing calendar and amateurs who fancy their chances can compete in the 36-holes pre-qualifying round to be held at Emirates Golf Club on Sunday 14th January.

The event is open to all players who are full members of a Club or UGA Handicap Scheme in the UAE and to Arab Nationals outside the UAE who hold a handicap of scratch or better at the time of the pre-qualifying round and at the time of the actual tournament. 

The winner of the event will receive an invitation to participate in the 2007 Dubai Desert Classic, certain to be another sporting and social spectacular.

Of course wintertime is the perfect time to take to the water for a couple of days. Throughout January and February, the IFA Yacht Ownership Club is offering a two-day cruise on the 23 metre luxury yacht, IFA Dubai. Embark at Dubai International Marine Club to see the iconic islands - The Palm Jumeirah and The World - and moor at the astonishing Burj Al Arab for lunch on board and an afternoon of sun and water sports. Cruise to Dubai Creek, enjoy the sumptuous dinner of your choice by moonlight and disembark to explore the traditional souks for gold, perfumes and spices.

Then it’s a leisurely journey back to the marina and a relaxed overnight on the yacht - with finely appointed accommodation for eight - before breakfast the following morning. Rejuvenate at the Six Senses Spa, lunch at one of the many wonderful restaurants at Madinat Jumeirah or Mina Seyahi or simply chill out on IFA Dubai with friends and loved ones for the afternoon. A sunset is guaranteed!

Dubai in winter… Ahhhh…