Follow The Amazing Race to Dubai
From adrenalin-fueled aquatic adventures to a sunrise desert safari, follow season 37’s contestants across the Emirates’ crown jewel with our race-inspired guide
Warning: The Amazing Race season 37 spoilers ahead! Bookmark this page and come back later if you’re not caught up...
“We want to do some cool stuff when we go to Dubai.” Fortunately for season 37 contestant Jeff, the United Arab Emirates’ glitzy, futuristic city is just the place. In episode six, The Amazing Race’s eight remaining teams speed into Dubai, where they’re greeted by its ultra-modern skyline and the jaw-dropping sight of the Burj Khalifa—the world’s tallest building.
After a rejuvenating night’s sleep in a desert Bedouin camp, teams are treated to a sunrise camel ride before being dropped into Dubai on a dazzling tandem skydive. While most of the contestants hustle off to try their hands at preparing a tea service at Atlantis The Royal, Carson and Jack grab the Fast Forward, which has them scuba diving through Deep Dive Dubai, the world’s deepest diving pool descending almost 200 feet. Once the teams tackling tea complete their task under the watchful eye of chef Christophe Devoille, they’re off to the harbor to ride the waves in an eFoil challenge. While some glide through, others sink, with the drama coming to a head at the striking calligraphy-covered doughnut loop housing the Museum of the Future.
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Whether your idea of a good time is adventure or laid-back luxury, Dubai is full of exhilarating activities, but first-time visitors take note: The UAE has a desert climate, so plan your stay between November and March when temperatures are most manageable. There’s plenty to see on the modern side of the city—think the iconic architecture of the Dubai Frame, Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, or Museum of the Future—but be sure to visit the city’s Old Town. From a stroll through the Heritage Village to treating yourself to fresh dates at the souks (markets) of Deira, there’s a world of tradition to explore.
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The Amazing Race-inspired Dubai experiences
Ready to kick-start your trip to Dubai? Read on and get planning your action-packed activities, incredible eats and glamorous hotels so that you can make the most of your The Amazing Race-themed vacation.
Find new episodes of The Amazing Race on Wednesdays at 9:30 p.m./8:30 p.m. Central on CBS/Paramount+
Dubai is synonymous with over-the-top luxury, but the city’s hotels cover a range of price points. Avani+ Palm View offers apartment-style living and resort-like amenities at a price that makes it ideal for longer stays. Or get above it all at Address Beach Resort, home to the world’s tallest infinity pool and rooms with stunning views of Marina City. For shorter stays where luxury is a priority, try The Lana, a marble and dark-wood masterpiece located 20 minutes from the airport. Anantara The Palm gives a taste of the city’s urban beach resort scene, with stunning views of the Dubai skyline and kid-friendly options. Or consider getting off the beaten track—just 40 minutes outside of the city, luxury desert resort and spa Al Maha is the perfect self-care oasis.
From casual street food to high-end fine dining, Dubai is the perfect city for foodies. Be prepared to line up for an hour or more at Bu Qtair, a no-frills seafood spot in the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour that’s been a favorite of locals for over 35 years. Vegetarians and carnivores alike will enjoy Teible, a Michelin Green Star restaurant known for imaginative farm-to-table dining. Come to At.mosphere for the view from the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, stay for their inventive European and Middle Eastern fusion. When in doubt, go where the chefs eat: Michelin-starred Orfali Bros is an industry favorite for their skilled approach to flavor, texture and local ingredients. And have you even been to the Middle East if you haven’t eaten falafel? Sample crispy, herby delights at Sultan Dubai Falafel, a Palestinian Jordanian restaurant known for mouthwatering dishes.
Dubai is surrounded by the Arabian Desert, so for the ultimate adventure, get out and play on a half-day desert safari, which includes camel rides, sand-surfing and optional quad biking. Feeling even more daring? On the Edge Walk, you can (safely) enjoy the city view from a ledge 720 feet above the ground. But while Dubai’s high-rises are surreal, the modern side of the city only tells half the story. Join an Old Dubai walking tour to learn more about traditional Emirati lifestyles while you try henna painting, ride a water taxi, and go shopping in the old spice souks. Experience the good life on the water with a super-yacht experience, a boat trip on a luxury yacht where you’ll be accompanied by DJs, sip on premium beverages, and have the chance to go for a swim. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are only 90 minutes apart, so take a guided day trip to explore the Grand Mosque, Royal Palace and Etihad Tower, and other sights of this stunning second city.
Laura Studarus is a Los Angeles-based writer, traveler and tea drinker who has contributed to Lonely Planet, Wired, and The Daily Beast among others. Sometimes she can go for several hours without a cup of tea.
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