We tested it: a stay in Dubai, the jewel of the Emirates, reachable by direct flight from Lyon

Departure from Lyon, 5 degrees (and six hours of flight time), arrival in Dubai, 30 degrees. That’s how the beautiful city welcomed us, turning our winter routine into sweet memories of summer. A pleasant temperature immediately sets the tone for the journey: okay, time to break out the flip-flops, dresses, and shorts! Because yes, Dubai is all about being yourself without the fear of judgment. Honestly, here, nobody cares about how you dress, and oh boy, it feels amazing!

A hotel surrounded by skyscrapers where you feel oh-so-small.

After a quick stamp in our passports, we’re off to our hotel, and what a hotel ! Right at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world (828 meters high and 163 floors, just to remind you!). The view of the skyscrapers from our room sets the mood immediately: we definitely feel tiny! If we were to agree on one thing about Dubai, it’s this: there are skyscrapers as far as the eye can see. Some new, some old, some still being built... It’s a city that never sleeps, currently in its golden age. It builds and innovates continuously. And yes, it’s impressive. Does that make it an off-putting city? Absolutely not. We want to learn more, to explore everything.`know. Although everything is on a grand scale, somewhere within it, you quickly find a charm, and you get used to it. Futuristic architecture at every corner that comes to life in the evening. And how beautiful it is! A skyline that easily takes shape before our eyes. Whether we love it or not, we can’t help but be impressed!

The city of 150 buildings

The view from the Palm offers a breathtaking sight of the city and the Burj Khalifa.

The Emirati megacity also surprises with its incredible cultural richness (who would have thought?) and its gastronomy. Even though the city is rapidly developing, it has managed to create a cultural empire that many people don’t even suspect. Some say that "Dubai is an artificial city with no history," and yet! You really have to see it to believe it. You will find museums aplenty, telling the story of this ever-evolving city, with pieces of history at every corner. If you decide to go to Dubai, it is recommended to uncover the mysteries of this unique city, tracing back to its creation, exploring the history of its souks and traditions, to truly understand its beauty.

“The future belongs to those who can imagine, design, and bring it to life.”

“Execute” - Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Dubai captivates and enchants. Among the sea of tourists, there's definitely the Emirati community, but also a multitude of expatriates: a total of 180 different nationalities. Let’s be honest, many come to Dubai for the financial perks. But for others, Dubai has woven itself into their lives, sometimes out of necessity, and before they know it, they come to love and cherish it. Those who were supposed to stay for just two years are still here, fifteen years later! Because that’s also what Dubai is all about: trying it out means you’ll want to stay! And we can tell you, we’ve truly given it a shot. Enough to bring you beautiful spots and share lovely memories...

A city where beauty is found at every corner.

Speaking of memories, one of the most beautiful, without a doubt, was the night in the desert. What can I say... it was simply magnificent! Restful, silent, so simple and charming at the same time. Like a moment outside of time that we all pleasantly enjoyed. We, who didn't even know each other yet at the Lyon airport, played and laughed so much! Among scorpions, oryx, and gazelles, we didn't know where to look, from morning till night, admiring the beauty of this nature. Totally amazed by the beauty of the sunrise and sunset, it was at that very moment that we said: Wow, Dubai is full of wonderful things! A suspended moment that lasts both an eternity and just a second, and we wondered: wouldn't we like to stay for another week?bsp;?

A night in the desert, completely disconnected, just a few kilometers from a city that never sleeps.

We, who were so skeptical about this destination, all left enchanted, eager to return (and that was no small feat...), with stars in our eyes, a rich Emirati culture thanks to Nathalie Van de Vrede, our guide throughout the trip, and stories to share with friends, just to show off a little. See you soon, Dubai, and until next time!

Dilemma: Would you rather stay in the cold of Lyon
or
test Dubai and discover a city with a thousand faces?

If your answer is the second option, know that Transavia offers a Lyon-Dubai flightStarting from 157 € only. Have a great trip!