Discover Dubai from the water

With time on your hands, a trip down Dubai Creek becomes an indelible memory. A traditional mode of public transport is the fleet of abras which criss-cross the wide saltwater creek, as they have done for centuries. A token fee of AED1 per trip gives visitors the chance to travel between the city's famed Gold, Textile and Spice souks, to find bargains on gemstones and gold, exotic seasonings and exquisite fabrics. Dock at the far end of the Creek, at Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, for a picturesque meal on the rooftop terrace.

Set sail from: Dubai Old Souk Marine Transport Station

The mountain getaway of Hatta is home to freshwater wadis (valleys) and the azure waters of the Hatta Dam. Head to the latter and book a single or double kayak experience, or opt for the larger yellow boats and triple water bikes for a group social experience. For more action and adventure, blaze your own trail with a 4X4 mountain safari trip, or try zorbing and ziplining at the action zone, Hatta Wadi Hub.

The Madinat Jumeirah uses abras to connect the sanctuary's hotels, villas and restaurants via a picturesque canal system. Cruising past the beach and the Burj Al Arab, a Madinat abra ride takes about 30 minutes for a full loop. If you want more, check-in for an indulgent resort experience at either Al Qasr, Mina A’Salam or Jumeirah Al Naseem. You can even sit down for a meal at one of many spectacular waterside restaurants and lounges in this tranquil setting.

Set sail down Dubai’s newest – and perhaps one of its most ambitious projects yet – the Dubai Water Canal. Its waterways stretch three kilometres from the Arabian Gulf, through Safa Park, into the heart of the city centre, culminating in the quiet waters of Business Bay. Soak in the spectacular views from any one of the pedestrian bridges that cross the Canal, including the motion-operated waterfall where the Canal meets the Sheikh Zayed Road bridge. It pumps water in a constant, colourful flow and switches off when the sensor detects a boat nearby.