If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, add these 10 books to your reading list first. From historical fiction to non-fiction accounts of modern life in the city, these reads will give you a well-rounded perspective of what to expect on your travels.
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Best travel guide books about Dubai
There is no shortage of travel guide books about Dubai, but which ones are the best? If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide covering all the major attractions, the 5 best books about Dubai to read before you travel are listed below.
Lonely Planet Dubai & Abu Dhabi
The Lonely Planet Dubai & Abu Dhabi is the perfect guide for those planning a trip to these two amazing cities. It includes all the essential information on what to see and do and practical tips on accommodation, transportation, and food. The book also features insider tips from locals to get the most out of your visit. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s skyline from the top of the Burj Khalifa or experience the traditional culture of the souks, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip.
Lonely Planet Pocket Dubai: top sights, local experiences (Pocket Guide)
The Lonely Planet Pocket Dubai is an excellent guide for those looking to experience the best of what the city has to offer. It covers the top sights and local experiences in an easily accessible format. The guide includes information on the best time to visit Dubai, what to see and do, and where to eat and drink. It also provides an overview of the city’s history and culture. The Pocket Guide is an essential tool for anyone planning a trip to Dubai.
DK Eyewitness Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi (Pocket Travel Guide)
The DK Eyewitness Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Pocket Travel Guide is your handy guide to the two most famous cities in the United Arab Emirates. This pocket-sized book is packed with insider tips on what to see and do in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, from exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa to shopping in the world-famous Gold Souk.
With its clear maps and easy-to-use layout, the DK Eyewitness Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Pocket Travel Guide will help you plan your trip with ease. Whether you’re looking for the best beaches, hotels, or the best nightlife, this guide has it all.
So, whether you’re looking for a quick city break or a more extended holiday, the DK Eyewitness Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Pocket Travel Guide is your essential companion.
Dubai for Kids Travel Book – Activity Book, Pocket Guide & Travel Journal
This travel book is the perfect way for kids to learn about and explore Dubai! The activity book is packed with fun activities, puzzles, and games. At the same time, the pocket guide provides all the essential information about Dubai, from its history and culture to its attractions and activities. The travel journal is the perfect way for kids to keep track of their experiences in Dubai, with space to write, draw, and paste in photos and souvenirs.
Dubai Marco Polo Pocket Travel Guide - with pull out map (Marco Polo Pocket Guides)
The Dubai Marco Polo Pocket Travel Guide is an excellent guide for those looking to travel to Dubai. The guide includes a pull-out map which is extremely helpful in getting around the city. The guide also provides information on the best places to eat, drink and shop and attractions and activities to do while in Dubai. Overall, the Dubai Marco Polo Pocket Travel Guide is an excellent guide for those wanting to travel to Dubai and explore everything the city offers.
5 Best non-fiction books about Dubai
If you want to learn more about the history of Dubai, its leaders or the region, these 5 books are an excellent place to start!
Sheikh Zayed - An Eternal Legacy
Sheikh Zayed: An Eternal Legacy is a book about the life and times of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and first President of the United Arab Emirates. The book chronicles his life from his early days as a young prince in the desert to his years as a Ruler and President, and finally to his legacy as one of the most influential leaders. Sheikh Zayed was a visionary leader who had a profound impact on the development of his country and the region. He was a man of great wisdom and compassion, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.
My Story by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and the Ruler of Dubai. In his memoir, My Story, Sheikh Mohammed shares his thoughts on various topics, from his childhood and education to his experiences as a leader and a businessman. He also offers advice on how to achieve success in life.
My Story is an inspiring and insightful book that provides a rare glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential leaders in the world today. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is a man who has achieved great things, and in this book, he shares his secrets to success. If you are looking for inspiration, or simply want to learn more about one of the most fascinating men, then My Story is a must-read.
Sheikh CEO - Lessons in Leadership from Mohammed Bin Rashid al Maktoum
Sheikh CEO is the story of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and one of the most powerful men in the world. In this book, Sheikh Mohammed shares his story of how he became one of the most successful leaders in the world. He shares his secrets to success and how he has been able to create one of the most prosperous countries in the world. This book is an inspirational story that will motivate readers to achieve their dreams.
Showpiece City by Todd Reisz
In Showpiece City, Todd Reisz explores how architecture has helped make Dubai one of the most iconic and fascinating cities in the world.
From the early days of its development, when ambitious projects like the Palm Islands and the Burj Khalifa were first conceived, to more recent initiatives like the Expo 2020 site and the Dubai Creek Harbour, architecture has played a crucial role in shaping Dubai’s unique identity.
Reisz looks at how Dubai’s built environment has reflected the city’s cosmopolitan character, its aspirations to be a global hub and its commitment to sustainable development. He also discusses the challenges architects face in creating a built environment that can meet the needs of a rapidly growing population while preserving the city’s distinctive character.
Showpiece City is an essential guide to understanding Dubai’s built environment and its significance in the 21st century.
The End of Empire on the gulf by Tancred Bradshaw
The book The End of Empire on the gulf by Tancred Bradshaw is a detailed account of the withdrawal of the British Empire from the Gulf Region in 1971. It covers the political and economic background of the decision, the logistical challenges involved in the withdrawal, and its impact on the region’s people and countries. The book is based on extensive research and interviews with key participants in the withdrawal process.
3 Best non-fiction books about Dubai
Looking for a great book about Dubai to read on the plane or by the pool? Why not have a look at one of these fantastic non-fiction books!
Temporary People by Deepak Unnikrishnan
In “Temporary People,” Deepak Unnikrishnan tells the stories of migrant workers in the United Arab Emirates. These workers, who come from countries like India and Nepal, often work in construction or domestic labor. They are paid little and are treated poorly. The workers live in labor camps, often crowded into small rooms. They have few rights and can be deported at any time. Unnikrishnan tells the workers’ stories with compassion and humor. He shows how they struggle to make a living in a country that does not value them. “Temporary People” is a powerful and moving book about the lives of migrant workers in the UAE.
The Sand Fish: A Novel From Dubai by Maha Gargash
The Sand Fish: A Novel From Dubai is a 2009 novel by Maha Gargash. The novel tells the story of a young Emirati woman, Noora, living in Dubai in the early 21st century. Noora is a modern woman working to balance her traditional values with her desire for independence and self-expression. The novel follows Noora as she navigates through love, family, and friendship. The Sand Fish is a coming-of-age story that offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Emirati women.
A Summer Revenge by Tom Callaghan
A Summer Revenge is a gripping thriller from Tom Callaghan. When a body is found in the grounds of a stately home, DCI Kate Daniels and her team are called in to investigate.
As they try to piece together who the victim is and how they ended up there, they realise that this is no ordinary case. The more they dig, the more secrets they uncover, and it soon becomes clear that someone is determined to keep those secrets buried.
With time running out, Kate must catch the killer before they strike again. A Summer Revenge is a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat read that will keep you guessing until the very end.
