In July 2017, I had the incredible opportunity to travel to Dubai, United Arab Emirates, to attend part of the Academy of International Business Annual Conference. While the conference itself was a valuable experience, the time I spent exploring Dubai and its surroundings provided some unforgettable highlights.
One of the most thrilling aspects of the trip was staying on the 60th floor of the JW Marriott Marquis, the tallest hotel in the world. The view from such a height was breathtaking, offering a panoramic vista of Dubai’s impressive skyline, with its modern skyscrapers and sprawling urban landscape. The hotel’s luxurious amenities and exceptional service made my stay incredibly comfortable and memorable.
A visit to Dubai wouldn’t be complete without experiencing the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. I took the fastest elevator in the world to the 148th floor, where the observation deck provided unparalleled views of the city below. The sensation of ascending at such speed was exhilarating, and the view from the top was nothing short of spectacular. From this vantage point, I could see the vast expanse of Dubai, with its innovative architecture and the shimmering Arabian Gulf in the distance.
Another highlight of my trip was a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, where I visited the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque. The mosque, though “only” the seventh largest in the world, is truly a masterpiece of Islamic architecture. Its pristine white marble structure, adorned with intricate floral designs and stunning chandeliers, is a sight to behold. The mosque’s most impressive feature is the world’s largest handmade carpet, which covers the floor throughout the men’s, women’s, and main prayer halls. Walking on this beautifully crafted carpet, surrounded by the grandeur of the mosque, was a humbling and awe-inspiring experience.
The Sheikh Zayed Mosque, named after the founding father of the UAE, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of cultural and architectural excellence. Its serene courtyards, reflective pools, and expansive prayer halls create an atmosphere of tranquility and reverence, making it a must-visit landmark in Abu Dhabi.
The juxtaposition of Dubai’s ultramodern skyline with the traditional beauty of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque highlighted the rich diversity and rapid development of the United Arab Emirates. From the cutting-edge architecture of the Burj Khalifa to the timeless elegance of the mosque, each experience left a lasting impression.
Overall, my trip to Dubai for the Academy of International Business Annual Conference was a blend of professional enrichment and personal discovery. Staying at the JW Marriott Marquis, soaring to new heights at the Burj Khalifa, and exploring the cultural splendor of the Sheikh Zayed Mosque made this journey truly exceptional. The images of the Burj Khalifa and the Sheikh Zayed Mosque will forever remind me of the remarkable experiences I had in this dynamic and fascinating part of the world.