1

Jumeirah Beach is the name given to a very long stretch of beach running almost the entire length of Dubai. Which hotel is it?

Dubai Creek is in the old part of town so you'll be near the souks and the heritage area. Traffic can be very heavy, especially on the Deira side, but there's quite a lot to see and do.

'Nicer' might mean the newer part of town, it might not mean that to you though.

Everywhere in Dubai is very safe so that doesn't need to be a consideration between the Creek and anywhere else. No one place in Dubai is close to everything you are likely to want to see but it's easy to get around by metro and taxi.

2

Thanks Kali - at Jumeirah Beach it's the Hilton. Or the Majestic Tower near Dubai Creek. We just want to be able to walk out of our hotel and be able to walk without encountering too many hassles/too much traffic so that we can explore a bit and stretch our legs. The Creek sounds interesting - are there lots of touts around the souqs or can we wander without too many hassles?
Thanks again.

3

The Hilton JBR has the advantage of being a stone's throw from the beach and part of the Jumeirah Beach Residence development, which is a long promenade with lots of restaurants and shops, plus other hotels. There is a fair bit of traffic in this area given its popularity and also construction work in the vicinity (like most other areas of Dubai!). Across the road is the marina which is pleasant for a stroll around, and it's also a short taxi ride to the Madinat Jumeirah which is a new made to look old souq and hotel complex with waterways,shops, restaurants etc.

The Creek, as other posters have said, is in old Dubai which is quite atmospheric with a lot of hustle and bustle. You can walk the length of the Creek on both sides to the bridge and in this area are the gold, spice and textile souqs, bastikya (heritage area with traditional houses and wind towers plus art galleries) and also Sheikh Saeed's palace museum. You can cross the Creek by dhow to get between souqs and also hire a boat to take you up and down. You're also near a good golf course and Festival City shopping mall.

Hope that helps with your decision making - it really depends what your preference is. And Dubai is easily navigable by taxis and the metro so you can explore a variety of areas no matter where you stay.

4

I think #3 has explained the two areas very well. Basically it's the old traditional area (near the Creek) v the new development (Jumeirah Beach Residences). It depends what you are looking for.

You will be able to walk around in either area without any hassles. Even the souqs are fine. The sellers are very laid back compared to other countries you may have visited in Asia.

Just one comment about the location of the Majestic Tower. It is not right in the middle of the busy area. It is around a 15 minute walk from the hotel to the area where you'll find the souqs, etc. That walk would be pleasant in the winter months, but in the middle of summer it might not be so good.

To cross the Creek from Bur Dubai side to Deira side, it's good to take a boat called an abra. It's a small public boat which people use to cross the Creek. It only costs 1 Dirham and is a good way to experience the traditional feel of this part of the city.

5

Thanks for the tips everyone - much appreciated! :)