Dubai

I (Drew) was able to attend my second international conference, this time in Dubai.  Although the city is centered around malls and consuming, I had a fantastic time with coworkers Ryan, Katrina and Kara.  The highlights for me were the last evening when we swam in the Persian Gulf and the following morning when Ryan and I headed to the Oman border and went four-wheeling in the desert sand (last few pictures). We left on Thursday afternoon and arrived around 7:00pm.  Wasn't expecting an all-woman taxi company to be our ride to the hotel.

Ladies Cab

On our way somewhere

 The main attractions within the city all seem to be in malls, as far as I can tell.  I compared these to Mt. Rushmore - they're worth seeing once.

The first night we ate at Apres, overlooking an indoor skihill.  Inside.  In the desert.

The largest aquarium in the world.  Yep, that's a glass-bottom boat

 Some of the attractions in the mall were welcoming.  The following picture was taken at Ruth Chris Steak House when I joined them for after-dinner drinks.  Since I rarely eat meat, I decided to head out on my own and found some treats.

 

Yes I did!

Best combination on Earth!

For my Minnesota Peeps

Not only does Dubai have the largest Aquarium in the world, it also has the tallest building complete with a wanna-be Bellagio (Vegas) fountain show.

Skyline

Tallest building in the world

The conference ended on Thursday at 3:00, which meant we had about 24 hours to explore.  I was adamant about swimming in the Persian Gulf/Arabian Sea and everyone decided to come along.  It was fantastic, relaxing and the water was perfect.

Swimming in the Persian Gulf.  Can you see Iran behind me?

Sunset.  The building is called "The Sail".  I have no idea what it's used for.

The next morning Katrina and Kara went to Ikea (big deal when you live in India) and Ryan and I took a driver out to the desert by the Oman - Dubai border.  The desert out there was very different than the Nevada desert I lived in for 6 years.  Although I wanted to go dune buggying, the sand was a blast to four-wheel on!