Dubai is the wonder city of the Middle East. It has been built on billions of dollars of oil wealth and is today the hub of industry and commerce in the region. Despite its recent rise to stardom, this city has a heritage that dates back many centuries. The first settlement here is thought to have been established in the 11th century AD and the foundation for the modern city that we see today was laid out in the late 19th century. Relics of the historic past are found in buildings such as the old Al Fahidi Fort that was built in 1799. It was also an important location because it was where the pearling industry of Arabia used to congregate.

As such it is apparent that the city was the melting pot of different Arabian cultures, and at the heart of every ethnic and tribal group in the Middle East is a culture of hospitality. It is an integral part of life in the region and forms the backbone of Islamic teaching. Nomadic Bedouins are renowned for their hospitality towards their guests and also their unique mouth-watering cuisine.

Therefore the transformation of Dubai into an ultra modern city that sees millions of tourists annually comes as second nature to the locals here, who are born into a long tradition of good food and hospitality. These ancient traditions are mirrored in the many restaurants that are to be found in the city today.

The best place to dine out in Dubai is in the downtown area. Restaurants offering regional cuisine ranging from Moroccan, Lebanese to Syrian can be found here. Also establishments that use traditional Bedouin methods to cook are also found. The distinct difference in these two styles of cooking is probably down to the ingredients and also the influence of Mediterranean cuisine. Restaurants offering Asian, Thai and the popular Japanese sushi are also seen here.

While many a 5 star hotel Dubai offers continental fare, guests staying at a Dubai airport hotel such as Millennium Airport Hotel Dubai should definitely visit the Downtown district as well as Jumeirah, Bur Dubai and Sheikh Zayed Road areas.