The travel giant’s choice might surprise you…

When it comes to Dubai’s neighbourhoods, Dubai Marina and JBR are perennial favourites, while Satwa and Jumeirah are classics. But none of them appear on Lonely Planet’s list of the world’s “coolest” neighbourhoods – oh no. That honour belongs to Business Bay.

The guidebook publisher has released a list titled “10 of the world’s coolest neighbourhoods to visit right now”, and Business Bay is right up there among hip ‘hoods in London, New York, and Seoul (you can find the full list here).

“Ignore the unsexy name – Business Bay is becoming one of Dubai’s most exciting neighbourhoods,” Lonely Planet writes.

“Once a soulless expanse of half-built office towers… the area is reinventing itself as a waterfront leisure destination.”

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We agree that Business Bay has emerged from the shadows of the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai in recent times to become a destination in its own right.

Dubai Water Canal is coming along nicely, and there are so many great eateries popping up (we especially love Pantry Cafe in Bay Square).

Oh, and it’s also home to the Zaha Hadid-designed building, The Opus, which will be another incredible Dubai landmark when it’s finished.

Here are some more things you’ll find in Business Bay…

5 COOL THINGS TO DO IN BUSINESS BAY

1. Ride an abra

Cruise along the Dubai Water Canal in a traditional abra – you’ll even get to go under its unique motion-sensored waterfall.

2. Strong along the canal boardwalk

Check out Dubai’s very own Venice in the making, and get plenty of snaps for your ‘gram of the beautifully designed bridges.

3. Visit the world’s tallest hotel

You’ll find plenty to keep you entertained within the 72 storeys of JW Marriott Marquis. Feeling adventurous? Try the Wanderlust brunch at Garden.

4. Go restaurant-hopping at The Oberoi

This luxury hotel doubles as an excellent foodie spot, with great options like Italian restarant Matto, Latin American hotspot Waka and rooftop bar Iris.

5. Explore Bay Avenue

There’s a lovely park here with a jogging track and playgrounds, and in the winter months you can pick up fresh local produce at the Baker & Spice Farmers Market.

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