Hello Dubai

The Museum of the Future was an apt venue for the Dubai Future Forum - the largest meeting of the world's trend analysts, scientists, technologists and industry leaders. UAE vice president Muhammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum calls the venue the "most beautiful building on earth" and it's certainly a spectacular space for a gathering focused on creating hope for coming generations.

It's an interesting time to relook at Dubai, specifically. For many, the UAE city reads like a one-note destination for maxing out your credit card - from lavish parties and luxury shopping to plush hotels and flashy city-bound experiences. Taking in a unique view of the museum (which is a fascinating visit in itself) from the rooftop of my hotel, I felt inspired to delve further into what epitomises a future city. So, I extended my trip with the mandate of exploring the less obvious experiences and attractions Dubai has to offer. I found that the emirate is dynamic enough to satisfy travellers of all kinds - even those seeking a slower, more refreshing, and wellness-focused pace.

The other side of Dubai - no malls, marinas or massive parks in sight

Dubai's landscape beyond the CBD is a drawcard for many. Ghost cities, where the desert has reclaimed its space, or popular camping spots such as Al Qudra Lakes, White Sand Beach and Hatta Dam, provide the opportunity for a night under a blanket of stars, as well as kayaking, kite surfing, hiking, snorkelling and nature experiences.

Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum was instrumental in shaping this dreamscape, and his love for adventure, nature and wellness is visible around the city, with bike parks, horse riding and fun adventures found throughout. For those wishing to drop their very own 'vanlife' hashtag on the 'gram, Dubai's accommodation options that don't include skyscraper hotels extend to world-class camping sites. Hatta is a national park where visitors may take their pick from airstream trailers, RVs, dome tents and lodges, each of which has its own unique view of the park. Bab Al Shams is a luxury oasis in the dunes just 45 minutes from Dubai's city centre, and the best way to experience the desertscape. Lauded for its sustainable tourism drive, the city has been strengthening its green principles in line with the government's Dubai 2040 Urban Masterplan to become one of the world's most sustainable destinations. A masterstroke in this grand tourism and urban scheme is a focus on enhancing the quality of life of both visitors and residents, while preserving the environment. Offering lavish eco and green hotels, wildlife observation trips, birdwatching, wetland exploration (yes, in the desert) and visits to local communities - Dubai is always striving to be the best, and breaking stereotypes. It's getting its due

Highlights when you do Dubai - with a different eye

• GET A MOVE ON
  • Should fitness be a part of your travel plan, there's plenty on the go. The Strava running and cycling maps highlighting the unique geography of the city - the Palm or World Islands in particular - are a bucket list item for fitness fanatics.
  • Female travellers can hit the ground running with the Instagram-famous Top Stretching, the largest ladies-only fitness studio in the city. Its funky and fresh locations in Jumeirah and the Dubai Marina boast scenic backdrops for your ultimate #fitspo moment.
• APPRECIATE THE OLD
  • Forego regular cabs and hop onto an abra water taxi or a metro train, leaving the glitz of the malls behind, for a taste of regional authenticity with a trip to Diera, one of Old Dubai's most popular areas. Immerse yourself in Emirati culture, get lost in the gold and spice souks and feast on authentic flavours with lunch along the market's creek. The best shawarma, barata and traditional Karak chai are guaranteed here.
  • When the heat gets too much, head to Dubai's answer to Los Angeles' Venice Beach - Kite Beach - the perfect place for the kids to let off steam.
• SEEKING SHADE
  SEVA Experience is a hidden oasis that describes itself as a 'hub of consciousness'. The secret garden escape and Wi-Fi-free zone has a fully plant-based café, and offers workshops in yoga, meditation, sound healing and more.
• GO SMALL
  There are more contained, controlled, and curated travel experiences that made my visit far more authentic and rewarding. Whether it's a trip into the desert for stargazing, a wellness experience, or tea with an Emirati host in the market, take an anti-tourist approach to finding the heart of this city of contrasts. For example, one of my favourite finds was Dubai's Stray Dogs Centre, where pooch lovers get the opportunity to meet rescues from every emirate. Here I got a chance to 'meet' one of the oldest dog breeds in the world: the Saluki (Persian greyhound).