Dubai - such a crazy place!

"Bigger and Better" is the motto here.

We've been before of course as we have a very good reason to visit with Ebony living here, but it never fails to stun. This time we took in the light and fountain show, went to a different mall (one of the many!) to get some much needed clothes and had a road trip with Ebony to see one of the very latest listed UNESCO sight, the first in the Emirates.

Ebony's apartment is a haven for us to catch up a bit on our writing and planning and we are made to feel most welcome by Ebony, her flatmate and her friends. The weather is sweltering at this time of year but inside the apartment it is comfortably air conditioned.  

Our road trip was in 40+ temperatures with a misbehaving air con, but sweltering suits the desert landscape we had come to see. First sight was the highest mountain in the UAE which (thankfully) required a drive rather than a hike. We then visited a fort, the remains of some tombs and an oasis.

Thanks also to Miss Tam for a gorgeous dinner party. The meal was fantastic, real vegetables !!! how good is that.

We are off now for 3 long flights (the first on 9/11 year 10 anniversary) spread over three days due to poor connections, taking us to our next destination of Anchorage, Alaska.

Footnote: Cultural Sites of Al Ain (Hafit, Hili, Bidaa Bint Saud and Oasis Areas are UNESCO World Heritage listed. Bidaa Bint Saud was not visited - next time!!.