Visiting Guide

Around Dubai!

Beyond the conference, Dubai offers an extraordinary array of attractions and experiences for every interest. From world-renowned landmarks to traditional souks and exhilarating desert adventures, you’ll find countless ways to make your visit unforgettable. Here are just a few highlights of what you can explore around Dubai:

Cultural & Heritage Experiences:

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (Al Bastakiya): Step back in time in this beautifully preserved heritage area with traditional wind-tower houses, art galleries, and quaint cafes.

Dubai Creek & Abra Ride: Take a traditional wooden boat (abra) ride across Dubai Creek, the city’s historic lifeline, connecting the old districts of Bur Dubai and Deira.

Gold Souk & Spice Souk: Immerse yourself in the bustling traditional markets of Deira, where you can haggle for gold jewelry, precious stones, and a vast array of spices.

Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU): Participate in cultural meals, guided tours, and Q&A sessions to learn more about Emirati culture and traditions.

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Iconic Landmarks & Modern Marvels:

  • Burj Khalifa  Ascend to the observation decks of the world’s tallest building for breathtaking panoramic views of the city, desert, and Arabian Gulf.
  • The Dubai Fountain  Witness the world’s largest choreographed fountain system, dancing to captivating music against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall.
  • The Dubai Mall More than just a shopping destination, this immense mall features an indoor aquarium, an Olympic-sized ice rink, a VR Park, and numerous dining options.
  • Museum of the Future An architectural marvel and a visionary museum that showcases innovative technologies and ideas for the future.
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  • Dubai Frame Stand between Dubai’s past and future in this towering architectural landmark, offering panoramic views of old and new Dubai.
  • Palm Jumeirah & Atlantis, The Palm Explore the iconic man-made palm-shaped island, home to luxurious resorts, fine dining, and the thrilling Aquaventure Waterpark.
  • Ain Dubai Experience the world’s largest and tallest observation wheel, offering stunning views of Dubai’s skyline and coastline (check operational status closer to your visit).

Adventure & Entertainment:

Desert Safari: An essential Dubai experience! Enjoy dune bashing in a 4×4, camel riding, sandboarding, a traditional Bedouin-style dinner, and live entertainment under the stars.

Ski Dubai: Experience an indoor ski resort in the Mall of the Emirates, complete with real snow, ski slopes, and penguin encounters.

IMG Worlds of Adventure: The world’s largest indoor theme park, featuring thrilling rides and attractions based on Marvel, Cartoon Network, and original concepts.

Global Village: (Seasonal: typically October to April) A multicultural festival park offering shopping, dining, and entertainment from around the world.

Deep Dive Dubai: Dive into the world’s deepest swimming pool, offering an incredible underwater city experience for divers of all levels.

Dining & Nightlife:

Dubai boasts a phenomenal culinary scene, from Michelin-starred restaurants to casual eateries and vibrant nightlife options. You’ll find cuisine from every corner of the globe.

We encourage you to explore the official Dubai tourism website (www.visitdubai.com) for more detailed information, up-to-date events, and to plan your itinerary.

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Accommodation & Transportation

Hotel Recommendations

Dubai offers a wide range of accommodation options to suit every budget and preference, from luxurious five-star hotels to comfortable serviced apartments. We recommend looking for hotels in areas well-connected by the Dubai Metro or close to the Canadian University Dubai (CUD) campus.

Some areas to consider for your stay include:

Downtown Dubai / Sheikh Zayed Road

-Offers a variety of upscale  hotels

-Close to major attractions like Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall

-Well-served by the Metro (Red Line)

Business Bay

-A growing business and residential hub with modern hotels

-Easily accessible by Metro (Red Line)

Al Wasl / City Walk

-A vibrant area with stylish hotels and apartments

-Relatively close to Canadian University Dubai

Dubai Marina / Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)

-Popular for leisure and business stays

-Wide selection of hotels and serviced apartments

-Direct access to the Dubai Metro and Tram

-Further from CUD, but offers excellent connectivity

We encourage attendees to book their accommodation early, especially given Dubai’s popularity as a global destination. You can explore options and book through major online travel agencies.

Please note: Unlike previous editions, IEEE SM 2025 does not have exclusive discounted rates with a specific hotel. Attendees are responsible for arranging their own accommodation.

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By Metro

The closest Metro station to CUD is Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station (Red Line). From there, it’s a short taxi ride or a comfortable walk to the university.
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By Bus

Several RTA bus routes serve the area around CUD. You can use the RTA’s Wojhati app or Google Maps to plan your bus journey. The Mazaya Center – 01 bus stop is very close to CUD.
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By Taxi / Ride-Hailing Apps

Taxis are readily available throughout Dubai and are a convenient way to get around. Ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber also operate extensively in the city.

Dubai boasts a highly efficient and modern transportation network, making it easy for attendees to navigate the city and reach the conference venue.

Transportation

Arriving in Dubai


Most international attendees will arrive at:

Dubai International Airport (DXB)

DXB is a major global aviation hub.

From DXB to CUD

-Metro: The Red Line of the Dubai Metro has stations directly at DXB Terminals 1 and 3. You can take the Red Line towards Expo 2020 / UAE Exchange and alight at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station.

-Taxi: Taxis are available 24/7 at the airport. The journey to CUD will take approximately 15–25 minutes depending on traffic.

Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)

DWC serves fewer international flights but is also an option.

From DWC to CUD

-Taxi: The most convenient option for reaching CUD.

-Public Bus: Bus services connect DWC to various Metro stations for further travel into Dubai.

Getting Around in Dubai City


Dubai offers various efficient ways to travel:

Dubai Metro

-A fully automated, driverless metro system with Red and Green lines, covering most major attractions and business districts.

-Payment is made using a Nol Card (a rechargeable smart card, available at all Metro stations).

Dubai Tram

-Connects areas like Dubai Marina, JLT, and Al Sufouh, linking with the Metro.

-Also uses the Nol Card.

Public Buses

-An extensive network covering most urban areas of Dubai.

-Payment is via Nol Card only.

Taxis & Ride-Hailing

-Abundant and reasonably priced throughout the city.

-You can hail taxis on the street or use apps like Careem and Uber.

Water Transport

-Abras (traditional boats), water taxis, and ferries offer unique ways to explore certain areas.

-Especially popular along Dubai Creek and Dubai Marina.