Sand, Sky and Skylines: Animesh’s Couple Trip to Abu Dhabi and Dubai
There’s something magical about packing your bags and leaving behind the monotony of everyday life, even if just for a week. My partner and I didn’t have a specific reason for choosing the UAE—no bucket list, no milestone celebration. We just wanted to escape the ordinary.
But as the plane descended, with Dubai’s glittering skyline coming into view, I had a feeling this trip would be anything but ordinary.
Lights, Heights, and a Million Little Delights
Our first night in Dubai started with a touch of glamour—a Marina Dhow Cruise. Picture this: the city’s twinkling lights reflecting off the water, a gentle breeze carrying the aroma of freshly grilled kebabs, and the soft hum of live music in the background. It wasn’t just a dinner; it was the kind of romantic evening Bollywood songs are written about.
The next day, Dubai upped the game. The Burj Khalifa, towering above us, was even more impressive in person than in pictures. As we zipped up to the 148th floor, I couldn’t help but feel like a kid on a rocket ride. The view from the top was simply breathtaking. The city stretched out like a glittering map, and for a moment, the world felt small and infinite all at once.
But it wasn’t all about the big-ticket attractions. Wandering through the Miracle Garden, we felt like Alice in Wonderland made of flowers. I mean, where else can you find a life-sized floral castle? It was whimsical, over-the-top, and yet somehow utterly charming.
Dubai was all about speed and sparkle, from the futuristic Museum of the Future to the buzzing souks where the scent of saffron mingled with the shine of gold jewellery. Yet, as much as we loved the city’s pulse, we were ready for a change of pace.
Enters… Abu Dhabi
If Dubai felt like a party, Abu Dhabi was the soul-searching retreat. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was our first stop, and let me tell you—it was like walking into a dream. The pure white domes and intricate marble patterns felt surreal, and the sense of serenity was almost tangible. Even the air seemed softer there.
But Abu Dhabi wasn’t all solemn beauty. We ventured into Ferrari World, and suddenly, my partner turned into a speed enthusiast. “Fastest roller coaster in the world? Challenge accepted!” he declared, dragging me along. I screamed through every twist and turn, while he came out grinning like a kid who’d just conquered the candy store.
Then came the Falcon Hospital—a surprise highlight of our trip. I held a falcon (yes, an actual falcon!) and learned about the deep cultural connection between Emiratis and these majestic birds. Who knew bird hospitals could be this fascinating?
One of the most memorable afternoons was spent strolling along the Corniche, a beautifully manicured waterfront that felt like it belonged in a postcard. We grabbed shawarma from a local food stall and sat on a bench, watching families picnic and kids fly kites. It was simple, peaceful, and perfect.
Where Time Stands Still
Both cities had their share of glitz and grandeur, but the desert was where our hearts truly felt at home. The dune bashing was as thrilling as promised—a wild ride over golden waves of sand. Our guide, with his quick wit and knack for storytelling, made the experience even better.
But the magic happened after the sun dipped below the horizon. At the desert camp, we sat under a blanket of stars, the air filled with the rhythmic beats of traditional drums. A belly dancer swirled gracefully under the firelight, and I somehow ended up trying henna tattoos while munching on freshly baked flatbreads.
The desert wasn’t just beautiful; it was grounding. There’s something about the vast emptiness that makes you feel both insignificant and connected to something much bigger.
Two Cities, One Story
What made this trip memorable wasn’t just the attractions or the food (though the falafel and shawarma deserve their own fan club). It was the contrast—the way Dubai’s buzzing energy complemented Abu Dhabi’s thoughtful calm. Together, they gave us the perfect blend of adventure and introspection.
My Two Cents for Future Travelers
If you’re planning a trip to UAE, here’s my take:
- In Dubai, go big! Visit the Burj Khalifa, shop at the souks, and indulge in the luxury the city offers. But also take a moment to stroll through the Miracle Garden or catch the sunset at Dubai Marina.
- In Abu Dhabi, let the culture guide you. Spend time at the Grand Mosque, visit the Falcon Hospital for a unique experience, and take a leisurely walk along the Corniche. And if you’re up for some thrills, Ferrari World won’t disappoint.
- The desert safari? Don’t even think about skipping it. Whether it’s dune bashing, stargazing, or feasting on BBQ under the stars, it’s an experience like no other.
Lastly, if you want a seamless experience, book through Thrillophilia. They handled everything from visa approvals to on-time transfers, leaving us free to enjoy every moment. Trust me, having a well-organized itinerary makes all the difference.
As I sit here flipping through photos and laughing at inside jokes only we understand, I realize this trip was a story—a story of two cities, a desert, and two people rediscovering the joy of simply being together.
Read more: Thrillophilia Abu Dhabi Reviews