Travelling across the sun-drenched sand dunes on an unexpected thrill ride across the desert has to be one of life’s highlights.

This was a desert safari – straight from the city lights of Dubai into the place where it all began.

We were driven over the tall dunes at speed by our Travco guide. It felt like at any moment the jeep might topple over, but wave after wave we rode on.

This is definitely not for the faint-hearted, but a beautiful sunset awaited at the end.

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve includes camel rides, henna tattoos, shisha smoking, belly dancing and traditional Arabic performances, alongside a tasty meal.

I stayed for four nights in Dubai, part of the United Arab Emirates, which boasts sandy beaches, towering skyscrapers and, of course, that rare desert experience.

As well as being an amazing city, Dubai is a great culinary experience.

We had lunch at nearby Purobeach Conrad, with a restaurant and lounge terrace seated perfectly by the pool.

There is so much to see and the best way to do this is to ascend the 124 floors of the Burj Khalifa.

Called, At The Top, it gives breathtaking 360-degree views of the city and beyond.

It is an iconic building bringing visitors from far and wide – flocking to see the world’s tallest tower.

As part of a deal, visitors can also see the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo in Dubai Mall.

This is one of the largest suspended aquariums, with sharks, stingrays, and more than 140 species of fish, all set amid designer brands of the city’s famous mall.

Another great day out for all the family is Wild Wadi, the water park with more than 20 rides.

This includes Jumeirah Sceirah, one of the world’s tallest and fastest free-fall water slides.

Next to the park is Latitude at Jumeirah Beach Hotel, offering a range of international cuisines. Grab a plate and head to the buffet for a taste of Japan, Thailand, the Middle East, Malaysia and Europe.

Dubai Marina also boasts many hotels, bars and restaurants but only one is run by acclaimed Michelin-starred British chef Jason Atherton.

Marina Social has panoramic views, with the glittering lights of the city reflected across the water, making it a beautiful spot. I tried some delicious dishes from deep fried cauliflower balls to cheese churros and there was a great range of vegetarian options.

During my stay, I was also able to learn more about the mix of cultures in Dubai, which is made up of about 94% expats and 6% Emiratis.

To really understand some of the traditions of the Emirates, I headed to the Al Fahidi Historic District, where the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding opens its doors.

It allows visitors to explore the traditional culture in an open and relaxed setting. Serving a traditional brunch with a side dish of cultural understanding, the experience is not one to be missed.

Although one of the most liberal places in the United Arab Emirates, it is still wise to respect the traditions of the country.

From culture to history, Travco’s city tour from old Dubai and the Dubai Museum, to the cobble-stoned bustling markets of the souks, was the final adventure of my trip.

The experiences prove Dubai is an amazing mix of contrasts and cultures, and a must-see destination.

Emily’s trip was funded by Dubai’s Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing.

Two nights of the stay were at the Manzil Downtown Dubai, an elegant hotel in the heart of the city.

With an Arabesque design and a beautiful courtyard to relax and eat, the rooms are comfortable, clean and affordable, and the hotel has a relaxed pool area.

Manzil Downtown Dubai’s starting rate for rooms is £128 per night plus taxes.

The second hotel was the Vida Downtown Dubai, offering an urban and relaxed spot with a beautiful pool area, and laid-back cabanas for sunbathing and enjoying a glass of wine.The rooms are pristine and airy with lovely views across the city.

Vida is also well known for hosting urban picnic brunches – an event which is legendary in Dubai and many hotels host them every Friday.

Vida Downtown Dubai rooms start at £153 per night plus taxes and the urban picnic costs £55 includes unlimited soft drinks, £65 including unlimited selected beverages, £94 inclusive of unlimited bubbly.

Other attractions:
At the Top, Burj Khalifa –
adults £24, children £18
Dubai Aquarium –
adults and children £19
Wild Wadi –
adults £54, children £44
Cultural Brunch at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding – £20 per person
Travco Desert Safari – £28.50 per person
Old Dubai city tour with Travco – £15