Dubai is a city that gracefully oscillates between the futuristic and the traditional, offering an unparalleled canvas for exploration. My recent trip to the megalopolis to celebrate the milestone opening of Mercure’s 1,000th global outlet at Mercure Dubai Deira became an immersive journey into the core of the city. Located in the heart of Dubai Deira—the historical heart of Dubai—the hotel represents a thoughtful conflation of modern hospitality and cultural heritage, making it an ideal starting point for uncovering old Dubai’s charm.