I’m an expat kid myself – grew up mostly in France and Belgium but now living in NZ. Anyway my flight comes through Dubai and it would be lovely to have a look around with my ten year old daughter. Would you recommend Bur Dubai to stay? And is it safe to walk around? I assume so. We’re only staying for a day and I would love to do some local stuff if you have any thoughts on where I can get some spices and local perfume.

Yes, Dubai is a very safe city.  I would recommend you stay right down at the Creek to get a good feel of ‘local’ Dubai.  There is a hotel called The Orient Guest House which is based in the old Bastikiya Quarter and another hotel called the Barjeel Heritage Guest House located directly on the Creek.