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The 25 Best Things to Do in Dubai

By Melinda Healy

Contrary to what you might have heard, Dubai is not all malls and flashy hotels. This sprawling desert city is always adding notable cultural institutions , galleries, and design-focused shopping , all focused on luring in a new generation of visitors . If you prefer an adrenaline rush, though, there's always the thrill of sliding between the high floors of a glass skyscraper, or jumping into the world’s largest dive pool. Almost anything is possible in this city, and we have a list to prove it: Here are our picks for some of the best things to do in Dubai, both longstanding and new.

Read our full Dubai travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Aura Skypool Arrow

This is the planet's highest 360-degree infinity pool, perched 200 meters atop The Palm Tower. Aura Skypool offers not only uninterrupted views of the emirate, but also a unique pool day experience. From 50 floors up, the sweeping views of The Palm, the Burj Al Arab, and the gulf beyond are an incredible way to see Dubai from above and alter your perspective. Tickets cost from about $46 per person for one of three sessions, and are best pre-purchased online .

Jumeirah Mosque Arrow

As the only mosque in Dubai that's open to non-Muslim visitors, the Jumeirah Mosque is popular with a range of travelers—it's also the most photographed. Easily one of the most beautiful in the emirate, it's crafted entirely from white stone in the medieval Fatimid style and particularly breathtaking at dusk. Visitors are allowed in six days a week (Fridays are for prayer), and tours are led by knowledgable guides who make the experience.

Deep Dive Dubai Arrow

This is the world's deepest pool with a depth of 60 meters. It boasts a sunken city for diving enthusiasts to explore and holds 14 million liters of water. Tailored entirely to water lovers, deep diving is for those with certifications only, while snorkeling on the surface and scuba-diving up to 12 meters can be undertaken by anyone over the age of 10. Given Deep Dive Dubai also acts as the region’s largest underwater film studio, packed with 56 cameras and the ability to create different moods, it is definitely a must-try experience. Tickets are required and can be pre-purchased or bought online.

Hatta Dome Park Arrow

Ideally positioned a walkable distance from the Hatta Wadi Hub, this is a desert glamping experience that immerses guests in nature, offering them dome-tented accommodation, incredible mountain views, and an abundance of outdoor activities at their doorsteps. Hatta is buzzing with nature lovers and active travelers seeking refuge from the city, and geared up to explore the mountain range. These luxe tents offer comfort and adventure in equal doses. Each has its own terrace, and there are fire pits, barbecues, and food vans just a short distance away. Stylishly furnished in desert-inspired tones, the dome suites have a minimalistic chic design and serve up not only starry evenings, but also panoramic views of the picturesque Hatta mountain range that surrounds them. Despite the reasonably remote location, each room has Wi-Fi and can comfortably sleep two adults and three children (under the age of 14).

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Al Marmoom Camel Race Track Arrow

A popular heritage destination, Al Marmoom draws camel racing enthusiasts of all stripes, local and otherwise. A day at the camel races is an experience that is nicely representative of Middle Eastern culture, one that dates back to the 7th century. The grandstands are often filled with camel owners, trainers, and handlers, and most seats offer good views of the action. Remember that races start early—between 7 a.m. and 9 a.m.—and that commentary and announcements are made in Arabic.

Ain Dubai Arrow

Officially the world's largest observation wheel, Ain Dubai is 75 meters taller than the London Eye. Towering over Bluewaters Island, the wheel affords sweeping views from 250 meters in the air. Not only is it visible from so many of Dubai's vantage points, this attraction appeals to just about everyone—schools, businesses, families, tourists, and locals alike. Rides on the structure are ticketed, with passes sold at the venue or online .

Dubai Spice Souk Arrow

Dubai's sprawling spice market is arguably the most entertaining of all the city's souks. It's bustling, with intoxicating sights and smells. Many of the vendors sell the same ingredients—Persian dried limes, saffron, barberries, rose hips, and traditional Middle Eastern spice mixes. Saffron, while still pricey, is more affordable here than elsewhere in Dubai. Part of a complex that features three Jumeirah hotels and an adjoining waterway, the souk has stalls selling everything from the spices, to handmade lanterns, clothes, souvenirs, and everything in between. There are also two-dozen restaurants, indoor and out, not to mention some of the most spectacular views of the world-famous Burj Al Arab hotel. It’s free to enter, but parking and abra-style water taxis cost extra.

The Dubai Fountain Arrow

The world's tallest fountain puts the ones in Vegas to shame. Multiple fountain shows are scheduled every day, shooting 22,000 gallons of water up 500 feet in the air within the 30-acre Burj Lake. Plus, a new floating viewing platform means you can get much closer to the action than before. Even better, it's free. If you visit the Dubai Mall , you'll likely see the fountains while you're there, so pause for a moment and enjoy the show.

Flying with Falcons by Balloon Adventures Dubai Arrow

In this private adventure experience, the only other person in your balloon is the pilot, who is an expert balloonist and falcon handler. Guests are picked up from their hotels and driven out into the desert. The aerial views of the desert are some of the most spectacular you'll see. Not only is the rolling landscape incredible but it is possible to see Oryx and camels strolling the desert below. This tour is ideal for a special occasion with a loved one or for those looking to experience the culture in a totally different way. Bookings are required.

Global Village Arrow

Dubai's massive Global Village is essentially a theme park for all ages, though it's popular with families as the rides and attractions are kid-friendly. Open Late-October to mid-April, it features concerts, rides, dining, and attractions from around the world. It's on the outskirts of Dubai, so don't think you can pack it into a city-centric day, but if you have time and are interested in some global shopping and entertainment, it's worth a visit.

Sky Views Dubai Arrow

High above Downtown Dubai, 219 meters up, Sky Views serves up a series of adrenaline-inducing one-of-a-kind experiences. Like so many of the experiences offered in Dubai, this incredible attraction is not for the faint of heart. Tread the 25-meter glass-bottom podium that connects the Address Sky View's twin 50-story dual towers; ride the outdoor glass slide; or tackle the Edge Walk, which is exactly as it sounds. Tickets are required but you can buy them online or at the venue.

Al Shindagha Museum: Perfume House Arrow

Positioned on the Dubai Creek within the recently renovated Al Shindagha neighborhood (once the traditional center of the emirate), the Perfume House offers the opportunity to travel back in time and discover the ages-old methods of Arabic perfume-making. You'll learn about the region’s perfume-trading route and explore the traditional oils and ingredients used to make local scents (including oud, saffron, and specific roses).

Kite Beach Arrow

Like a Miami beach with its wide stretch of sand, aquamarine water, beach chaises, and enough activities to make you feel like sunbathing isn't quite enough, Kite Beach is for beach lovers. Join a game of volleyball, give kite-surfing a try, or take a run around the soft running track—when it's not 106 degrees out.

Aquaventure Waterpark Arrow

Now considered the world’s largest waterpark thanks to its recent extension, the venue has expanded by a third. Trident Tower, its newest arm, features the largest kids-only waterparks in the Middle East—Splashers Lagoon and Splashers Cove. Aquaventure contains more than 30 slides and attractions, including the emirates' longest lazy river, some thrilling rides (including the Leap of Faith and Poseidon's Retreat), and a private beach. There are also record-breaking waterslides to get the adrenaline pumping; Splashers Park and the Lazy River for families; and opportunities that encourage up-close-and-personal interactions with stingrays, dolphins, and sea lions.

Legoland Dubai Arrow

Legos come to life at Legoland Dubai (sister to others across the world, including in Florida), where 60 interactive rides and 15,000 Lego models entrance the young and young-at-heart. Aimed at families with children between the ages of 2 and 12, the theme park was created from 60 million Legos and encompasses six lands, indoor and out. And now there is a Legoland Hotel that allows families to really immerse themselves in Lego for a weekend or overnight stay. In the heat of summer, the outdoor attractions can be a little too much to bear, but the indoor ones are just as good—and they're air-conditioned.

Skydive Dubai Arrow

If free-falling over Dubai at 120 miles per hour sounds like your idea of a good time, Skydive Dubai has you covered. Beginners are welcome to jump in tandem with the company's experienced guides, but licensed divers can take the plunge solo. A tandem flight from Skydive Dubai's location on The Palm costs nearly $600—but it's worth it if you're a thrill-seeker who's not afraid of heights.

The Dubai Mall Arrow

As the largest mall in the world, the Dubai Mall draws in almost 100 million visitors a year. It's easy to get lost—there are more than 1,200 shops, after all—but a great place to beat the Dubai heat and ogle at the luxury stores. The place draws in more tourists from around the world than both New York City and Los Angeles so it's safe to say, everyone comes here.

XLine Dubai Marina Arrow

Fly belly-down across highways, skyscrapers, and swimming pools through the city of Dubai with XLine Dubai, one of the longest, steepest, and fastest urban zip lines in the world. From a height of 560 feet with speeds up to 50 miles per hour, riders soar from the Jumeirah Beach Residence to Dubai Marina, passing once-in-a-lifetime views along the way. There's even an option to ride tandem with friends.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood Arrow

This quaint neighborhood offers a glimpse into what Dubai was like before the Emirates were formed in 1971. Traditional buildings crafted from stone, palm wood, gypsum, and teak line the twisted alleys and pathways—history and architecture buffs will love getting lost here. The neighborhood is a quiet retreat from the traffic and skyscrapers of the city, and the labyrinth of lanes make this place feel like you're in a secluded village.

Abra Ride Across Dubai Creek Arrow

Riding an abra, or traditional wooden boat, is one of the most low-key ways to get a feel for life in Dubai. The boats gather on either side of Dubai Creek—in Deira or Bur Dubai—and can carry about 20 people. Many locals use the boats to get across the creek quickly and to avoid traffic, but you'll also see lots of tourists, especially at dusk. Given that it's quick and cheap, an abra ride is a must if you plan on spending any time at all in Old Dubai or visiting the QE2 .

Al Seef Arrow

From its location within the emirate's cultural epicenter, Al Seef marries the city’s heritage with contemporary offerings. The 1.1-mile precinct that hugs the Dubai Creek is split into two areas: one dedicated to the past and another to the future. Meander through the charming laneways, stop and have a coffee or a meal at one of the many restaurants and cafes, or simply sit and watch the activity on the creek from one of the tranquil public spaces.

Ski Dubai Arrow

In the middle of a mall in the desert, the world's third-largest indoor ski slope is a sight to behold. A daily lift ticket will run you about $138 (excluding equipment rentals), while a Snow Daycation pass, which primarily provides access to the non-skiing parts of the mountain like tubing, costs $75 per person, and you should plan to get there early. The place is filled with families with kids, most of whom are taking part in various rides, penguin visits and the Snow Cinema instead of skiing. If you're here to shred, there are two runs and a dedicated freestyle area (but Vail this is not).

At the Top, Burj Khalifa Arrow

The world's tallest building is, unsurprisingly, visible from almost everywhere in Dubai. Taking in the site is thrilling enough from the street, but you can also visit the top of the 160-story behemoth—brace yourself for the thrill of the high-speed elevators, followed by complete awe the moment you step onto the observation deck. Buy tickets online in advance for a specific time slot. Most first-time visitors to Dubai go to the top.

Etihad Museum Arrow

This ultra-modern museum offers a comprehensive look at the formation of the seven Emirates that make up the UAE. It draws a diverse crowd of UAE nationals and history-buff tourists. The museum lies on the site where the country's unification was signed in 1971. The Etihad Museum isn't overwhelming in size or content. Even non-museum lovers will find the exhibitions interesting and crucial to a well-rounded UAE visit.

Dinner in the Sky Arrow

Dinner in the Sky Dubai is no ordinary restaurant—even pulling up a seat at the table requires that you clip a seatbelt. The experience takes place nearly 165 feet in the air, at a table that rotates ever so slowly over the course of an hour. If you can stomach the altitude, you're in for impressive views of the Gulf—and maybe one of the most unusual dining experiences on the planet. Artful Dining by Le Meridien Mina Seyahi and The Westin Dubai are responsible for the menu, which ranges from burrata salads to Middle Eastern mezzes. It's ideal for a romantic evening or surprise celebration with a first date, long-time partner, or best friend.

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25 best things to do in Dubai

Jun 4, 2021 • 12 min read

Whether it's in a souk or a mall, shopping in Dubai is an essential experience © Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

If you're planning to visit Dubai, you'll find a stirring mix of profound traditions and futuristic vision wrapped into starkly evocative desert splendour.

You won't be short of things to do in the sci-fi-esque land of iconic skyscrapers, palm-shaped islands, city-sized malls and palatial beach resorts. Dubai embraces sunshine, innovation and cultural dynamism, and is known as a shopping haven with a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. Here are some great things to do to make the most from your trip.

Burj Khalifa

Dubai is famous for its dramatic skyscrapers, and above them all looms the Burj Khalifa , shaped like a deep-space rocket and, at 828m, the world's tallest building. It's a stunning feat of architecture and engineering, and a trip to the observation deck on the 124th floor (1483ft) is the most popular way to take in the amazing views it offers. You can also buy tickets for "At the Top Sky" on the 148th floor, which is the world's highest outdoor observation deck at 1820ft.

Clad in 28,000 glass panels, the Burj Khalifa also lays claim to several more superlatives, including the highest occupied floor and an elevator with the longest travel distance. On hazy days, it’s better to visit at night.

Al Fahidi Historic District

Wandering around this restored heritage area in Bur Dubai provides a tangible sense of historic Middle Eastern architecture and culture. Low-lying traditional courtyard buildings flank this quiet labyrinth of lanes in Al Fahidi Historic District , many of them featuring arabesque windows, decorative gypsum screens and wind towers.

Some contain craft shops, small heritage museums, art galleries, artsy guesthouses or cafés serving local fare, including Middle Eastern breakfasts and camel milk smoothies. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding leads guided tours of the quarter.

Dubai Miracle Garden

Covering some 2000 sq metres and touted as the largest natural flower garden in the world, there’s a sense of Alice in Wonderland–esque surrealism when entering Dubai Miracle Garden . Wander past quirky bloom-covered peacocks, clocks and castles, or alternatively, chill out in a cabana with billowing drapes and floor cushions.

Home to 100 million flowers, and adjacent to the enormous nine-dome Dubai Butterfly Garden, it is incredibly popular, attracting 55,000 visitors a week. There are food outlets on site as well as a souvenir shop and small trampoline park.

Shop 'til you drop

Shopping malls represent an integral part of the culture and lifestyle in Dubai. Not merely places for maxing out your credit cards on fashion, electronics or gourmet foods, malls are also where locals go to socialize in cafés and restaurants, to catch a movie in a state-of-the-art multiplex or to get adrenaline kicks in an indoor theme park or game arcade. The best and biggest of the bunch is Dubai Mall, which features not only 1300 stores but also a giant aquarium, an indoor ice rink and a genuine dinosaur skeleton.

Serious shoppers can check out the Dubai Shopping Festival, which lures bargain-hunters from around the world. It takes place in January each year, and there are huge discounts in the souqs and malls. The city is abuzz with activities during the festival, ranging from live concerts to fashion shows and nightly fireworks.

Mushrif National Park

One of the oldest parks in Dubai, Mushrif National Park covers more than 5 sq km of natural ghaf forest. Mushrif is located around 15km east of the city centre, and is a haven for birds, including owls, Orphean warblers, hoopoes and black redstarts. Dating from 1974, the park has plenty of manmade attractions as well, including walking trails and bicycle tracks, a large children's playground, a swimming pool and barbecue pits.

Read more: The 9 best parks in Dubai

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

On the outskirts of Sharjah , the 225 sq km Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve accounts for 5% of the Emirate of Dubai's total land. The reserve was established in 1999 and has been involved in projects to reintroduce mountain gazelles, sand gazelles and Arabian oryx.

It's possible to stay inside the reserve at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa , which was designed for superluxe ecotourism. The reserve is divided into four zones, the third of which is only open to resort guests and the fourth to a small number of desert tour operators, including Arabian Adventures , offering a less costly admission than overnighting at the resort.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

In 2016, Dubai added four theme parks to its stable of attractions, including IMG Worlds of Adventure , the world's largest indoor theme park. Housed in an air-conditioned hangar the size of 28 football fields, the park is truly impressive, with more than 20 rides and attractions split across four themed zones – Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure and IMG Boulevard. You won't go hungry as there are 28 dining outlets to choose from.

Etihad Museum

Opened in 2017, the striking Etihad Museum engagingly chronicles the birth of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, spurred by the discovery of oil in the 1950s and the withdrawal of the British in 1968.

Documentary films, photographs, artifacts, timelines and interactive displays zero in on historic milestones in the years leading up to and immediately following this momentous occasion, and they pay homage to the country's seven founding fathers. Free tours of the adjacent circular Union House are available, which is where the historic signing of the Constitution of the United Arab Emirates took place.

For a dose of Arabian Nights flair, head to Dubai's historic core and plunge headlong into its charmingly chaotic warren of markets. The famed headliner is the dazzling Gold Souq . Even if you don't have a thing for bling, a walk through here will feel like you've entered a giant Aladdin's Cave. It's fun to just watch the action, especially in the evening. If you're buying, sharpen your haggling skills, no matter whether shopping for teensy earrings, an engagement ring or a dowry-worthy necklace.

White Dubai

Dazzling rooftop bars, chill beachfront lounges, classic pubs, cool karaoke joints, speakeasy-style nightclubs, live-music venues – with such variety, finding a party location to suit your mood is hardly a tall order in Dubai. One of the biggest draws for nocturnal action is White Dubai. The mega-venue with its impressive light and sound systems sits smack dab on top of the grandstand of the Meydan Racecourse.

Desert escapes

The Arabian desert, with its weathered mountains, undulating sand dunes and wide open spaces, exudes a special mystique that can easily be savored on a day trip from urbanized Dubai. There are numerous tour operators to set you up with everything from camel treks to sandboarding or overnight safaris. The best ones offer an authentic look at local culture through encounters with Bedouins and traditional meals. Alternatively, consider hiring a 4WD and staying at a desert resort, so you can appreciate the magnificent scenery on your own schedule.

Read more: Top 9 day trips from Dubai

Dubai Museum

Housed in Bur Dubai's Al Fahidi Fort, the city's oldest surviving structure, Dubai Museum, provides a well-laid-out introduction to the history of the emirate. Marvel at its turbo-evolution from simple desert settlement to futuristic metropolis in just a third of a century. Dioramas recreate traditional scenes in a market, at home and in the mosque, while other galleries focus on life at sea and in the desert. An archaeological exhibition illustrates the ancient history of the region with a display of items unearthed during excavations at local digs.

Dubai Design District

This hub for creatives lures visitors with its edgy architecture, contemporary restaurants, public art, galleries and calendar of cultural events. Visitors to Dubai Design District can tap into this laboratory of tastemakers by browsing showrooms and pop-ups, eavesdropping on bearded hipsters in sleek cafés, checking out art exhibits in building lobbies, or attending free screenings and workshops. The week-long Dubai Design Week is held there in November, with an extensive offering of talks, workshops, masterclasses and kids' activities.

Dubai Butterfly Garden

If you want to deepen your knowledge of these pretty flying insects, pop into the Dubai Butterfly Museum , located next to the Dubai Miracle Garden. Some 15,000 butterflies flutter around nine indoor domed gardens, and you can see for yourself how they begin as caterpillars and evolve into their flying adaptations. Don’t miss the Butterfly and Insect Museum, which features in-depth analysis and information about thousands of colorful butterfly species from around the world.

Museum of Illusions

It opened in 2018 and the Museum of Illusions in the Al Seef district is fast becoming a favorite for families and Instagram fans. Kids will love the 150-plus illusions, including the rooms of mirrors, distorted perspective and various other optical illusions, while parents can take memorably wacky photos. Avoid visiting at weekends if possible, as visitors are restricted by number and you may have to wait your turn.

Jumeirah Mosque

Snowy white and intricately detailed, Jumeirah is Dubai's most beautiful mosque and one of only a handful in the United Arab Emirates open to non-Muslims. It's particularly beautiful at dusk and visitors are allowed in six days a week. One-hour guided tours are operated by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding , and while modest dress is preferred, traditional clothing can be borrowed for free.

Dubai Fountain

The dancing Dubai Fountain is spectacularly set in the middle of a giant lake against the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa. Water undulates as gracefully as a belly dancer, arcs like a dolphin and surges as high as 140m, all synced to stirring classical, Arabic and world music soundtracks played on speakers. There are plenty of great vantage points, including a 272m-long floating boardwalk, which takes you just 9m away from the fountain.

Other good viewing spots include some of the restaurants at Souk Al Bahar , the bridge linking Souk Al Bahar with Dubai Mall, the Dubai Mall waterfront terrace, or aboard a 25-minute Dubai Fountain Lake Ride on a traditional wooden abra boat.

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature

The long-running annual Emirates Airline Festival of Literature brings authors and thousands of book fans together to celebrate all things reading and writing. Held over nine days in March, the festival hosts talks, discussions, panels and a special program just for children, with many activities free to attend. It offers attendees a chance to meet local and world-famous authors, attend literary debates and workshops, participate in competitions and be inspired by their literary heroes.

Global Village

The carnival-like Global Village is a bit like a ‘world fair’ for shoppers, and you'll find it on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). Each of the 30-something pavilions showcases a specific nation’s culture and products. Aside from shopping, there's also lots of entertainment – from Chinese opera to Turkish whirling dervishes – as well as a funfair with dozens of rides from tame to terrifying.

Burj Al Arab

This landmark luxe hotel, with its dramatic design that mimics the billowing sail of a ship, floats on its own artificial island and has become the iconic symbol of Dubai’s boom years. The Burj Al Arab's interior is all about impact, drama and unapologetic bling, with dancing fountains, gold fittings, shiny marble and whirlpool baths your butler can fill with champagne if you so wish. If a stay exceeds your budget, you can still partake in the opulence by making reservations for cocktails, afternoon tea or dinner in the underwater restaurant.

Dubai Frame

Opened in January 2018, this 150m rectangular 'picture frame' sits in Zabeel Park , right between historic and modern Dubai, and provides grand views of both parts of the city. Galleries on the ground floor of Dubai Frame tell the story of Dubai (the past) before visitors are whisked up to a viewing platform at roof level (the present). The final stop is another gallery depicting a vision of Dubai 50 years from now (the future).

Al Qudra Lake

One for the nature lovers, Al Qudra Lake is a series of man-made lakes set amidst the rolling dunes of the Saih Al Salam desert on Dubai’s southern outskirts. Part of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, the surrounding area is unspoiled. Swap skyscrapers for wide open dunes and oasis-like pools where you can spot plenty of free-roaming wildlife, more than 100 species of birds and several desert plants.

This long, pristine stretch of white sand, off Jumeirah Road and next to a mosque, is superclean and has lots of activities, including kitesurfing, beach tennis, beach volleyball and kayaking. There are showers, wi-fi, toilets and changing facilities on Kite Beach , plus lots of food trucks and cafés. It offers great views of the Burj Al Arab, and gets very busy on Friday and Saturday when a seaside market with crafts and gifts sets up.

Perfume Museum

The waterfront Perfume Museum is part of the Al Shindagha Museum restoration project and is the former home of a Dubai sheikha who loved all things perfume. The old building has been restored and its interactive exhibits are based around scent, smells and fragrance. Keep your entry ticket and you’ll get free access to the nearby Dubai Creek House .

Steps from the Deira Old Souk abra station, the sound of Arabic chatter bounces around the lanes of this covered market. Dubai's famous Spice Souk is filled with intoxicating sights and smells. Its vendors work hard to unload cardamom, saffron and other aromatic herbs photogenically stored in burlap sacks alongside nuts, incense burners, henna kits, shishas and dried limes. Away from the tourist-oriented main thoroughfare, tiny shops also sell groceries and other household goods.

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The best things to do in Dubai

By Nicola Chilton

Think you've already done all the things to do in Dubai ? Think again. Dubai is pulling out all the stops in 2022, with the delayed Expo 2020 Dubai and the United Arab Emirates’ Golden Jubilee celebrations opening the country's doors to the world that little bit wider. This city continues to dream big, opening new things for visitors to do at a dizzying pace. So escape the year-round sun with a stay in one of the glittering hotels and get busy – these are some of our favourite activities.

Go up the Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is a dazzling sight, its needle-thin, glass-covered exterior shimmering in the desert sun. At 828 metres, it’s the world’s tallest building and is such a Dubai icon that Emirates put a ‘flight attendant’ (actually a skydiver and stuntwoman ) at the very top of it in 2021 to announce the UAE’s addition to the UK amber travel list . You don’t need to go to such heights to enjoy the view, but there are a couple of ways of doing it. Visit the At The Top observation decks, including the vertiginous outdoor terrace on the 148 th level, or head to restaurant and lounge Atmosphere on the 122 nd level. Our tip? Save sundowner hour for the beach , and head here for breakfast when you’ll see the city waking up far below.

Go inside the Burj Al Arab

Celebrating its 22 nd birthday in December 2021, the Burj Al Arab still remains one of the city’s best loved buildings. Up to now, if you weren’t a hotel guest or dining in one of the restaurants, it’s been pretty much off-limits to casual visitors. But a new Inside Burj Al Arab experience has just launched, inviting guests on a tour through the world’s tallest atrium, up to the 24-carat gold-covered Royal Suite, and into a new Experience Suite showcasing the building’s history, design and quirky trivia. If a tour’s not your thing, you can still see inside the building by booking a meal – try Al Muntaha with its vaguely space-age aesthetic on the 27 th floor for French fine dining and some of the greatest views in the city.

Have supper in the desert

Avoid the bigger tourist desert camps and head to Sonara for a more intimate evening in the dunes. Cocktails and burrata pizza fresh from the wood-fired oven await on arrival at the sunset lounge, and supper is served in a fairylight-festooned hollow carved out of the dunes. You can even sandboard your way down to your table. Entertainment includes a whirling dervish, balancing acts and a fire show, but watching the moon rise over the dunes is the most dreamy performance of all.

Go on an elite desert safari

Get picked up from your door by Range Rover and watch the skyscrapers fade out of focus – within 30 minutes, you’ll be in desert territory. Whether you choose to ride in a vintage Land Rover or stick to your pick up vehicle, there'll be no dune bashing with  Platinum Desert Safari ; rather a leisurely drive through the beautiful natural landscape with an experienced guide. As you meander through the private conservation reserve, seek out Dubai's native flora and fauna, from snakes to Arabian oryx, and admire the rolling dunes as you go. Watch the sunset with a falconry show, canapés and sparkling date juice. Just before dark, enjoy a camel ride that leads you to a private cabana where you’ll settle in for an impressive six-course dining experience followed by star gazing. The whole experience lasts seven hours, before the journey back to your accommodation.

By Charlotte Davey

By Jessica Puckett

By Karthika Gupta

Discover Bur Dubai 

Bur Dubai, one of the oldest parts of the city, is abuzz with energy. Go in the evening when it’s at its busiest, or go on Friday morning for a quiet stroll – Friday is the first day of the weekend in Dubai and it can be blissfully quiet until lunchtime. The Al Fahidi heritage district is home to galleries, small museums and cafés housed in restored traders’ homes topped by traditional windtowers. You’ll also find mid-century architecture , vendors selling jasmine garlands and lotus blossoms as offerings for the nearby Hindu temple, and streetside sugar-cane juice, karak tea and fresh samosas to fuel your wanderings. Closer to the Creek is the Old Souk where you’ll have to run the gauntlet of the often overly enthusiastic pashmina-sellers. Keep walking and you’ll reach the water where you can hop on an abra for a moment of calm.

Take an abra on Dubai Creek

Dubai’s not cheap, but if you have one dirham in your pocket, the equivalent of 20p, you can spend it on an abra to cross Dubai Creek, one of the loveliest things to do in the whole city. These little wooden boats have been chugging along for years, ferrying commuters, traders and tourists between the souk markets on each side. For a more leisurely cruise , rent your own for a circular tour. The trip takes around an hour and costs AED120. Prices are fixed – just go to one of the counters at the abra stations along the Creek. As you glide past minarets, windtowers and some of the city’s earliest skyscrapers, it feels like a journey back in time.

Deep dive in Dubai 

Dubai’s pre-oil fortunes lay largely in the pearl trade. Before cultured pearls were invented in Japan , around 40 to 50 million pearls were exported each year from the waters of the Arabian Gulf. Partially inspired by this heritage is Deep Dive Dubai , newly opened in summer 2021, housed in a building shaped like an oyster shell and, with a depth of 60 metres, the deepest diving pool in the world. But this is where the similarities end. The pool is designed as a sunken city filled with dystopian sights, such as an abandoned apartment, arcade games and a tree with far-reaching tangled roots. Beginners can join a Discover Scuba session and explore the shallower sights; advanced divers can head all the way down into the distant depths.

Experience a floating nightclub

Dubai’s love of breaking Guinness World Records knows no bounds, and the latest to be smashed is the world’s largest floating nightclub. New nightclub Float is located on the deck of the QE2 , itself a bit of a secret hiding in plain sight – surprisingly few people know that the grande dame ocean liner is permanently docked in Dubai and operates as a hotel. For those who’d prefer to see this piece of travel history in a more sedate way, the QE2 offers excellent heritage tours led by Peter Warwick, the ship’s former Cruise Director.

Soak up art and more at Alserkal Avenue

Alserkal Avenue’s grey and blue warehouses reward those who take the time to explore them. Previously known for being one of the ultimate places to discover regional contemporary art , the area has grown to include much more. Watch movies at Cinema Akil , the UAE’s only arthouse cinema. Pick up uber-stylish Arabian Gulf-style leather sandals at Tamashee and vinyl at Dubai’s first independent record shop, The Flip Side . Stop for coffee at Nightjar and burgers at futuristic food truck Fomo . These new additions don’t mean that it’s forgotten its beating arty heart, though – globally famed calligraffiti artist eLSeed has his studio here, and you’ll always find something exciting and thought-provoking at Ayyam Gallery and The Third Line .

Hike in the mountains 

Hiking mountains may not be something that springs to mind when thinking of things to do in Dubai, but if you’re looking for a breath of fresh air, a day in the emirate’s craggy region of Hatta reveals a completely different side. Hike or mountain bike trails ranging from ‘easy’ to ‘severe’ (the latter are not to be underestimated), kayak on the dam, and visit the Hatta Honey farm where a ‘Bee Suit Attendant’ will ensure you’re zipped up into a beekeeping outfit covered in cartoon bees before sending you out into the garden. Worth it for the pics alone. You can also stay overnight in accommodation ranging from dome tents to Airstream caravans, farm stays , and the lovely, rather retro,  Hatta Fort Hotel . This is not the Dubai you thought you knew.

See a flamboyance of wild flamingos 

Another unexpected Dubai sight is the colony of Greater Flamingos living in the heart of the city at the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary . While some are migratory visitors, many live here year-round. Come in summer and you’ll see the few hundred permanent residents, but visit in winter and they’ll be joined by thousands more, constantly honking. The hides open in the early morning, the best time to see the flamboyance (the collective noun for a group of flamingos) at its fullest.

The Best Things To Do In Dubai

Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations, and for good reason. This dynamic and diverse city has something for everyone. Whether you’re an adventure enthusiast, an art lover, or a foodie, Dubai will sweep you off your feet with some of the most unique and exciting activities in the world.

With new attractions popping up every day, Dubai is quickly becoming the top holiday location for people across the world.

Planning to visit Dubai or re-explore the city? Here’s your one-stop guide for all the best things to do in Dubai.

Top-Rated Tourist Attractions In Dubai

Burj khalifa.

If there is one thing you cannot miss out on while visiting Dubai, it’s the world-famous Burj Khalifa. The tallest building in the world at 828 meters high, Burj Khalifa is a spectacle to behold from both outside and inside.

The Burj Khalifa can be experienced in all its glory from various viewpoints, including Dubai Mall, Souk Al Bahar, and Burj Park. You can also dine at one of the many restaurants with Burj Khalifa view to take in the tower’s beauty.

If you are interested in viewing the city from sky-high, head up to Burj Khalifa’s observation deck, At The Top, located at level 124 of the tower. You can also enjoy luxury dining with a spectacular view at Atmosphere, a fine-dining restaurant located at level 122 of Burj Khalifa.

Timings: 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Ticket Price:

Dubai Mall Dancing Fountain

One of the first and largest choreographed fountain displays in the world; the Dubai Mall Fountains are one of the most exciting locations in Dubai. The fountains dance to classic and trending tunes and attract thousands of visitors daily.

The fountains take place every 30 minutes starting from 6 p.m. and can be viewed from the outdoor bridge at Dubai Mall or any fountain-view restaurants in Dubai Mall and Souk Al Bahar.

As the viewpoints can get crowded, we recommend coming at least 20 minutes before the show begins so that you can find a spot with the best view.

• Daily Evening Shows 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM every 30 minutes.
• Seasonally, lunchtime performances may be added at 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM (1:30 PM & 2:00 PM weekends).

Ticket Price: Free

Dubai Frame

Since its opening in 2018, the Dubai Frame has become a cultural landmark. This 150-meter-tall structure perfectly frames the Dubai skyline and old Dubai and creates an alluring spectacle for the eye.

However, The Dubai Frame isn’t just beautiful to experience from the outside. The inside, too, creates a unique journey that helps you discover and experience the transition between old and new Dubai while learning about the history of the city.

When walking on the Sky Deck of the frame, you can see the view of old Dubai on one side, and the modern cityscape on the other. It’s a truly exciting experience and one that should not be missed.

Timings: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

One of the best beaches in Dubai, Kite Beach is a must-visit destination for every tourist. This beautiful coast stretches 14 km and is the perfect place to enjoy a relaxing day while experiencing Dubai’s gorgeous sunsets.

If you are a fan of watersports, Kite Beach is one the main destinations in Dubai for exciting watersports, including Parasailing, Kitesurfing, Kayaking, Jet Ski Rental, and many more.

Kite Beach is also home to many famous restaurants if you wanna grab a quick bite, and it also has one of the best views of Burj Al Arab. It’s one of those places where you can spend your entire day without ever getting bored, which also has something for everyone.

Timings: Open 24 hours

Miracle Garden

The largest natural flower garden in the world, Miracle Garden is one of the most unique and spectacular places to visit in Dubai.

This 72,000 sq meters park houses hundreds of structures made entirely of fresh flowers, including the famous Emirates A380 plane decorated entirely with flowers. It’s also home to some of the most Instagram-worthy spots in the city.

As the temperatures get high during the summer in Dubai, Miracle Garden is only open between October to April. We highly recommend planning your trip when Miracle Garden is open to experience this unique destination during your visit.

• Mon-Fri, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• Sat-Sun, 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• AED 75 per person
• AED 60 per child (below 12 years)
• Free for children under 3

Global Village

Travel across the world with Dubai’s famous Global Village. At Global Village, you can experience the world with 30+ clusters dedicated to various countries, including India, Pakistan, Africa, Saudi Arabia, and many more.

Global Village is home to some of the best food stalls in the city, along with shops where you can buy unique local artifacts from around the world.

The large playground with various thrilling rides, arcade games, and other exciting activities like Ripley’s Believe It Or Not museum make Global Village one of the best family things to do in Dubai.

Timings: 4 p.m. to midnight

Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah is one of the most distinctive man-made islands in the world. Shaped like a palm tree, this engineering spectacle is one of Dubai’s crowning glory.

While the palm shape of the Island can only be viewed from a plane or while sky diving, Palm Jumeirah is one of the most fun and popular places in Dubai. There are many things to do on the island – you can stroll through and dine at The Pointe, a newly-opened destination with various restaurants and activities and a free light and fountain show, or experience the view from high above from The View at The Pointe.

Surely, a visit to Palm Jumeirah has to be on your list when you come to Dubai.

Timings: Open 24h

Ticket Price: Free to visit

Ever experienced snow in the midst of the desert? Ski Dubai is a 22,500 sq meters large indoor ski resort in Dubai located inside the Mall of The Emirates that brings a snowy delight to the desert.

At Ski Dubai, you can go skiing on snowy slopes, ride the cable car, and even meet the resident penguins, making you forget that you’re in sunny Dubai and not Switzerland.

There is also a local café that serves delicious hot chocolate with a view of the snow park, along with a snow cinema where you can enjoy your favorite movies in Atlantic temperatures. It’s most definitely one of the most unique experiences in the city.

• Mon-Thu, 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.
• Friday, 10 a.m. to midnight
• Sat-Sun, 9 a.m. to midnight

Desert Safari

Experience the desert in all its glory with Desert Safari. Discover the thrill of the desert and experience the old traditions and culture of the Arabs with this unique experience in Dubai.

A classic Desert Safari package includes dune bashing by a professional driver in a 4×4 SUV across the desert. You are then taken to a traditional Bedouin camp to enjoy the authentic culture of Dubai with activities like camel riding, henna tattoos, traditional dance shows, falcon photography, and much more.

The day ends with a dinner buffet featuring authentic Arabic food, including kebabs, hummus, and rice. If you want to experience the desert in its true form, Desert Safari is the best way to do so.

Timings: As per the package

Skydive Dubai

Experience Dubai from 13,000ft above the ground with Skydive Dubai. One of the most thrilling experiences in the city, Skydive Dubai, gives you an unforgettable moment that you will remember for a lifetime.

People from across the world come to Dubai to experience this unique Skydiving experience with amazing views of the spectacular Palm Jumeirah. You can also Skydive in the midst of the desert, where you can sail over expansive and mesmerizing sandy dunes.

Both experienced skydivers and first-timers are welcome at Skydive Dubai, with tandem instructor jumps available for people who don’t have the experience to do it alone.

Skydive Dubai ensures that you remember this amazing experience forever by providing high-quality images and videos of your experience.

Timings: As per the booking

Ticket Price:  

Deep Dive Dubai

One of Dubai’s latest and most anticipated activities is now open. Deep Dive Dubai is the world’s deepest pool at a whooping depth of 60 meters and is also mentioned in the Guinness Book Of World Records.

This spectacular underwater attraction is built to resemble an abandoned sunken city and is full of adventure and wonder. The area is the size of multiple Olympic pools, uses 14 million liters of water, and requires several dives to be able to explore it fully.

Deep Dive Dubai welcomes both beginner and professional divers. It provides a high level of safety and support to its visitors with a state-of-the-art water purification system and 56 underwater cameras.

Timing: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Aquaventure Water Park

Located in the famous Atlantis The Palm hotel, Aquaventure is the world’s largest biggest waterpark park spanning 42 acres with a 1km long private beach.

Aquaventure provides the perfect family day out and has something for everyone – from pulse racing, record-breaking slides, and attractions for the adrenaline junkie like The Odyssey, Shockwave, and the world-famous Leap of Faith, to a relaxing 1km long lazy river for the laid-back people.

It also houses kids-friendly spaces that allow young children to enjoy while the older kids hit the more thrilling rides and many restaurants for when you want to grab a quick bite during the day.

Timings: 9:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.

The View at The Palm

Reach new heights at The View at The Palm, an iconic observation deck offering unparalleled vistas of Palm Jumeirah Island and the azure expanse of the Arabian Gulf Coast. Standing tall at 240 meters, this architectural marvel provides a sweeping 360-degree panorama of Dubai’s landmarks, from the towering skyscrapers to the pristine coastline.

Step into the exclusive “Next Level” area for an intimate viewing experience, where floor-to-ceiling glass walls offer uninterrupted views of the cityscape below, creating an unforgettable moment in the sky.

Timings: 9 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Dive into an immersive aquatic adventure at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, home to over 100 species of marine life from around the world. Traverse the mesmerizing underwater tunnel, where majestic Tiger Sharks and graceful Stingrays glide overhead, offering a glimpse into the captivating world beneath the waves.

Explore the diverse ecosystems of the Rainforest, Rock Pool Coastline, and UAE Night Creatures zones, each teeming with unique flora and fauna waiting to be discovered. Engage in interactive sessions with knowledgeable guides to learn about marine conservation and the importance of protecting our oceans for future generations. Don’t miss the chance to encounter the legendary King Croc and other extraordinary creatures that call this underwater sanctuary home.

Timings: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Inside Burj Al Arab Tour

Go on a journey of luxury and opulence with a guided tour of the iconic Burj Al Arab, the epitome of Arabian hospitality and elegance. Explore the lavish interiors of this legendary 7-star hotel, from the ornate Royal Suites adorned with gold leaf accents to the breathtaking atrium soaring to dizzying heights.

Learn about the meticulous attention to detail and unparalleled service that have made the Burj Al Arab a symbol of luxury around the world. With a private guide and butler at your side, indulge in the ultimate VIP experience as you uncover the secrets of this architectural masterpiece.

Timings: 10 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Visit Dubai Gold Souk

Head over to the ultra-famous Dubai Gold Souk, where you can get lost labyrinth of narrow alleyways lined with gleaming storefronts, each offering an exquisite collection of jewelry and precious metals crafted to perfection.

Whether you’re seeking the perfect engagement ring or a unique souvenir to commemorate your visit, the Gold Souk has something for every taste and budget, and is one of the best things to do in Dubai at night. Haggle with friendly merchants and uncover hidden gems amidst the bustling market stalls, where every piece tells a story of Dubai’s rich cultural heritage and enduring legacy as the City of Gold.

Motiongate Dubai

One of the many adventure theme parks in Dubai, Motiongate Dubai is the Middle East’s largest Hollywood-inspired theme park. At Motiongate Dubai, you can discover the magic of Hollywood with four exciting and world-famous motion picture studios, including Smurfs Village and Lionsgate.

The indoor theme park is home to 40 world-class attractions and rides, including the world’s biggest spinning roller coaster. The attractions feature some of the most popular animations, including Madagascar, Hotel Transylvania, Kung Fu Panda, and Shrek and are sure to put a smile on the faces of every kid and adult.

With thrilling rides suitable for adults as well as child-friendly rides, Motiongate Dubai is the perfect destination for a fun family day out in Dubai.

• Sun-Thurs, 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
• Fri-Sat, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

La Perle by Dragone

La Perle by Dragone is the region’s first permanent show that features unique and mind-blowing performances by world-class performers. This award-winning show is influenced by Dubai’s vibrant culture and is brought to life by extraordinary stunts and special effects that will leave viewers speechless.

The show is staged in a magnificent 270-degree auditorium where the audience can witness the aqua and aerial spectacles of the act. This unique, Cirque du Soleil-isque show is one of the only performances of its kind in the region.

Safe to say that La Perle has to be on every entertainment and art lover’s Dubai bucket list.

Madame Tussauds Dubai

The world-famous, award-winning wax museum Madame Tussauds has finally entered the Middle East with its first location in Dubai.

Located on Bluewaters Island, the Madame Tussauds museum houses wax figurines of various famous people, including Justin Bieber, Lewis Hamilton, Dubai’s resident entrepreneur Huda Kattan, Vin Diesel, Queen Elizabeth II, and Nancy Ajram.

Visitors can also enjoy one of the many experiences in the museum, like Tea with Queen Elizabeth II, Interactive Catwalk, and the Exclusive Fame Experience.

Timing: Noon to 8 p.m.

Dubai Opera

If you’re a theatre fan, the Dubai Opera is the place to be. The only place in the city dedicated to theatre and performing arts, Dubai Opera has hosted some of the world’s best shows, including The Phantom Of The Opera.

The Opera is also home to one of the best multi-form theatres in the city, which can be toured if you are not so interested in the shows. It also houses some of the best restaurants in Dubai, including Belcanto and Armani/Hashi.

New performances are always taking place at The Opera, check out what’s playing during your visit here .

Timing: As per the show

Ticket Price: As per the show

Get Your Tickets To Dubai Opera On Platinumlist Now

Museum Of The Future

One of the latest, most anticipated places in Dubai, The Museum Of The Future, is now open to the public. This unique building is not only an architectural and engineering marvel but is also a representation of Dubai’s growth in advanced technology.

The building’s façade is covered in Arabic calligraphy of poetry by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum and is an absolute marvel to witness. The museum comes to life at night when the lights shine bright and bring an unmissable glow to the streets of Dubai, and creates probably the most Instagram-worthy shot in the country.

The Museum of The Future, unlike ordinary museums that house ancient relics, is a gateway and celebration of the future. Visitors can experience the interactive space that includes content crafted by a team of the world’s leading product, media, exhibition, and experience designers.

Timings: 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library has recently launched as the largest cultural center in MENA. This unique building that is shaped like a bookholder is a seven-story structure that houses millions of books from around the world, along with other activities and centers that inspire creativity and culture.

The library comprises 10 collections, ranging from children’s books, to informational and educational books, along with a special collections library, and is the perfect place to feel inspired.

Timing: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Cost: Free to visit

Missed the greatest show of all time, the Expo 2020, when it was live? We have good news!

The expo site is now open again with some of the most popular pavilions and features of the expo show.

Currently, the Alif (Mobility) Pavilion, Al Wasl Plaza, The Surreal Fountain, The Vision Pavilion, The Women’s Pavilion, and The Terra (Sustainability) Pavilion are open to the public, and new features are opening every day.

• Expo City – Open 24 hours
• Attractions – Mon-Sun, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• Attractions pass – AED 120 per person

The best time to visit Dubai is from October to April, as the weather is pleasant and all the attractions are open.

While all tourist attractions are popular, Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountains are the most popular attractions in Dubai.

The easiest way to commute in Dubai is by using public transport like the metro, buses, and taxis. They are affordable, safe, and easy to find.

There is always something happening in Dubai. You can find out about upcoming events and book your tickets by visiting our website.

30 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dubai

Written by Jess Lee Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Jess Lee is a travel writer who has specialized and lived in the Middle East for over 15 years.

Glitzy Dubai is the United Arab Emirates' holiday hot spot. This city of high-rises and shopping malls has transformed itself from a desert outpost to a destination du-jour, where tourists flock for sales bargains, sunshine, and family fun.

Dubai is famous for contemporary sightseeing attractions such as the Burj Khalifa (the world's tallest building) and shopping malls that come complete with mammoth aquariums and indoor ski slopes. But this city has many cultural highlights and things to do, as well as all the glamorous modern add-ons.

Take a wander around the Al Fahidi quarter, and you'll discover the Dubai of old, then cruise along Dubai Creek in a traditional dhow, and you'll soon realize there's more to this city than its flashy veneer.

Learn more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Dubai.

1. Shoot to the Top of Burj Khalifa

2. view the dubai fountain display, 3. sneak in some shopping at dubai mall, 4. visit an underwater world at dubai aquarium, 5. cool off at atlantis aquaventure waterpark, 6. head out into the desert, 7. take afternoon tea in the burj al-arab, 8. ski indoors at mall of the emirates' ski dubai, 9. explore dubai creek, 10. wander through colorful dubai miracle garden, 11. walk through history in al fahidi quarter (old dubai), 12. experience global village's culture & entertainment, 13. cruise around madinat jumeirah on an abra, 14. soak up the sun on jumeirah beach, 15. discover uae history at dubai museum, 16. snap sunset pics at dubai frame, 17. swim & sunbathe at la mer beach, 18. family time at motiongate & legoland in dubai parks, 19. tour jumeirah mosque, 20. take to the water at kite beach & umm suqeim beach, 21. stroll sheikh zayed road, 22. fuel up on thrills & spills in img worlds of adventure, 23. haggle in the souks of deira, 24. skydive over dubai's palm jumeirah, 25. enjoy world-class theater at dubai opera, 26. savor a nature break in dubai butterfly garden, 27. explore local culture in the heritage and diving village, 28. spot flamingos at ras al khor wildlife sanctuary, 29. view traditional architecture at sheikh saeed al-maktoum house, 30. browse cutting-edge art in alserkal avenue, best things to do with kids in dubai, where to stay in dubai for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to dubai, map of tourist attractions in dubai, best time to visit dubai, united arab emirates.

Highlight: The world's tallest building and Dubai's best panoramic city views

Dubai's landmark building and major tourist attraction is the Burj Khalifa , which at 829.8 meters is the tallest building in the world and the most famous of the city's points of interest.

For most visitors, a trip to the observation deck on the 124th floor here is a must-do while in the city. The views across the city skyline from this bird's-eye perspective are simply staggering.

The slick observation deck experience includes a multimedia presentation on both Dubai and the building of the Burj Khalifa (completed in 2010) before a high-speed elevator whizzes you up to the observation deck for those 360-degree views out across the skyscrapers to the desert on one side and the ocean on the other.

Nighttime visits are particularly popular with photographers due to Dubai's famous city-lights panoramas.

Buy your Burj Khalifa "At the Top" Entrance Ticket in advance to avoid long line-ups, especially if you are planning to visit on a weekend.

Highlight: A family-friendly evening entertainment spectacle

Wrapping around the Burj Khalifa are the gardens of Burj Park, with walkways dotted with modern art sculptures. Burj Park is where you come to see the Dubai Fountain display on Burj Lake.

Modeled on the famous Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas, this is the world's tallest performing fountain, with water displays shooting up to 150 meters high into the air.

The 30-minute-long displays take place regularly after dark, and although the display itself is free, there are entrance charges to access the add-on experiences.

The floating platform of the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk is one of the most popular experiences for close-up views, while there are also opportunities to take an abra (traditional wooden boat) onto Burj Lake to see the fountains from the water.

Highlights: Dubai Aquarium, plenty of family activities, dining options, and brand-name shopping

Dubai Mall is the city's premier mall and one of the city's best places to visit for a day of shopping and indoor activities to keep the kids busy. It provides entry to the Burj Khalifa as well as the Dubai Aquarium.

There is also an ice-skating rink, gaming zone, and cinema complex if you're looking for more entertainment options.

The shopping and eating are endless, and there are nearly always special events such as live music and fashion shows within the mall. The most famous of these are the annual Dubai Shopping Festival in January and February and the Dubai Summer Surprises Festival in July and August.

Location: Doha Road, just off Sheikh Zayed Road

Highlights: An awe-inspiring introduction to the underwater world

One of the city's top tourist attractions, the Dubai Aquarium houses 140 species of sea life in the huge suspended tank on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall.

Although there is free viewing from the mall, the highlight of a visit here is entering the Underwater Zoo, with its three-story high, 270-degree views along the length of the glass-panel tunnels.

As well as viewing the vast amount of marine life, the Dubai Aquarium offers plenty of aquatic experiences and things to do for visitors who want a close-up encounter with some of the aquarium's inhabitants, from hand-feeding eagle rays to diving with reef and tiger sharks.

Address: Dubai Mall, Sheikh Zayed Road

Highlight: Water-based theme park fun for a day devoted to family entertainment

Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark , based at Atlantis, The Palm on the Palm Jumeirah—Dubai's famous man-made island development—is a great place to cool off after a few days of hectic shopping and sightseeing.

The waterslide action here is excellent and world-class, with the Aquaconda, the world's longest water slide; a nine-story-tall slide, aptly named the Leap of Faith; and water coaster rides.

There's also underwater safaris using Sea TREK helmets; a dedicated water play area for smaller children with slides; and for when all your energy has been used up, a 700-meter sweep of white-sand beach.

Address: Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Highlight: See the UAE's dramatic interior of sweeping dunes on Dubai's best day trip option

You don't have to travel far from Dubai's coastal skyline of skyscrapers to reach some of the UAE's desertscapes of rippling dunes.

Both the dune fields and desert of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and the orange-hued dunes of Maleha (actually in the Emirate of Sharjah ) are within day-tripping distance of the city.

Desert adventure tours can combine a range of activities, from sandboarding, camel rides, and 4WD safaris to traditional Arabian falconry displays and desert dinners under the stars. There are also options for overnight camping under the stars.

The typical tour itinerary, giving visitors a taster of desert life, is easily slotted into even a short trip to Dubai, taking around six hours door to door, with a mid-afternoon departure from the city.

The Dubai Desert 4x4 Safari offers a half-day desert adventure and includes a camel ride, sandboarding lessons, a sunset barbecue, and a belly dancing show.

For a less rushed tour experience, choose one of the companies that operate inside the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, where trips can include wildlife drives to spot the reserve's free-roaming herds of gazelles and, if you're lucky, Arabian oryx.

Highlights: Treat yourself to one of Dubai's most famous dining experiences

The Burj Al-Arab is the world's tallest hotel, standing 321 meters high on its own artificial island on the Dubai coastline.

Designed to resemble a billowing dhow sail, the exterior of the building is lit up by a choreographed, colored lighting show at night.

Decadent in every way possible, the Burj Al-Arab is one of the most expensive hotels in the world, with the most luxurious suites costing more than $15,000 for one night.

For those without unlimited credit, the way to experience the over-the-top opulence is to book afternoon tea at Sahn Eddar (a minimum spend is required) in the soaring atrium lounge.

Non-guests can also book dinner at the Ristorante L'Olivo at Al-Mahara where floor-to-ceiling glass panels in the dining room walls allow you to view sea life while you eat, or you can enjoy French and Italian classics for lunch or dinner with city vistas at the Michelin starred Al Muntaha .

Address: Jumeirah Road, Dubai

Highlight: Cool off from the desert heat with some winter sports then shop till you drop in the mall

Mall of the Emirates is one of the city's most famous malls, with the spectacular (and surreal) Ski Dubai facility inside.

The indoor ski slope is complete with chairlifts and a penguin enclosure, all at a continuous temperature of -4 degrees Celsius.

There's also a cinema complex and a family entertainment center with a whole host of rides aimed at both the big and small.

The shopping opportunities are boundless, as are the eating options, offering every conceivable world cuisine.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

Highlight: Abra rides across the creek for city skyline views

Dubai Creek separates the city into two towns, with Deira to the north and Bur Dubai to the south.

The creek has been an influential element in the city's growth, first attracting settlers here to fish and pearl dive. Small villages grew up alongside the creek as far back as 4,000 years ago, while the modern era began in the 1830s when the Bani Yas tribe settled in the area.

The creek is where you come to capture city views from the water, either by taking a trip on one of the many dhows that have been restored as tourist cruise boats or by hopping on an abra (small wooden ferry) between the ferry points on the creek's Bur Dubai and Deira banks.

On the Bur Dubai side of the creek, rubbing up against the Bastakia neighborhood, the waterfront has been regenerated as the Al Seef district, with a waterfront promenade backed by traditional coral-block and limestone buildings, a floating market, and shops selling crafts. It's a great place for a stroll with excellent water views.

Farther southeast down the creek, on the Deira bank just north of Al-Maktoum Bridge, is the Dhow Wharfage. It's still used by small traders from across the Gulf who sail their dhows onward to Kuwait, Iran, Oman, India, and down to Africa's horn.

This tiny remnant of Dubai's traditional economy is a fascinating place to wander around and watch cargo being loaded and unloaded on and off the dhows.

At the southeastern end of Dubai Creek, just before the creek joins with Dubai Canal, is the newly developed Dubai Creek Harbor with a waterfront marina walkway, which offers excellent vistas of the city skyline.

Highlight: Colorful photography options amid Dubai's most creative gardens

This is the zaniest garden ever. Not content with constructing the world's largest buildings and malls, Dubai has created the world's largest flower garden. Dubai Miracle Garden spans 2,000 square meters and is home to a reputed 100 million flowers.

Everything that can be covered with flowers has been, from twee English-style cottages to windmills and trucks. There's even a flower version of the Burj Khalifa.

Stroll the walkways and enjoy the riot of color and the wacky flower displays.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Rd, Al Barsha

Highlight: Admire Dubai's vernacular Gulf architecture amid the lanes of the tiny old town quarter

The Al Fahidi Quarter (previously known, and sometimes still referred to as the Bastakia neighborhood) was built in the late 19th century to be the home of wealthy Persian merchants who dealt mainly in pearls and textiles and were lured to Dubai because of the tax-free trading and access to Dubai Creek.

Al Fahidi occupies the eastern portion of Bur Dubai along the creek, and the coral and limestone buildings here, many with walls topped with wind-towers, have been excellently preserved.

Wind-towers provided the homes here with an early form of air conditioning—the wind trapped in the towers was funneled down into the houses. Persian merchants likely transplanted this architectural element (common in Iranian coastal houses) from their home country to the Gulf.

Lined with distinct Arabian architecture, the narrow lanes are highly evocative of a bygone, and much slower, age in Dubai's history.

Inside the district, you'll find the Majlis Gallery , with its collection of traditional Arab ceramics and furniture (housed in a wind-tower), and the Al Serkal Cultural Foundation with a shop, café, and rotating art exhibitions (located in one of the historic buildings).

Highlight: Evening entertainment hub with a global cultural focus

From October through April, this entertainment park provides family-friendly entertainment themed around taking visitors on a journey around the world.

Global Village's 26 country pavilions, ranging from Iraq to Japan and Russia to South Korea, each offer an individual experience of that country's culture, entertainment, and heritage. It's a unique option in the city for evening entertainment for families with little ones in tow.

As well as the pavilions, there are plentiful dining and shopping options on-site. Younger members of the family will enjoy the fun-fair-style Carnaval with plenty of rides, such as bumper cars, carousels, Swiss swings, and a big wheel, along with faster rides and a roller coaster.

Address: Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Road, Dubai

Highlight: Scenic canal cruises on traditional abra boats for easygoing sightseeing

The development complex of Madinat Jumeirah is a dining and retail district with a couple of five-star hotels, all set along the palm-tree-fringed banks of an artificial canal network.

All of Madinat Jumeirah has been styled to mimic traditional Gulf architecture, with wind towers and mashrabiya detailing.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah here offers easygoing shopping, with a large variety of traditional craftwork and souvenirs from the Gulf and across the wider Middle East, but the main reason to head here is to hop on an abra (small wooden ferry) and cruise down the canal.

Abras leave regularly from Souk Madinat Jumeirah's promenade and loop around the waterway, providing plenty of photo opportunities of the lush gardens and traditional architecture of Madinat Jumeirah, with the tall swooping sail of the Burj Al Arab in the background.

Address: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Dubai

Highlight: Dubai beach life summed up with everything you need at your fingertips

This long, wide strip of sandy white bliss is the number one beach destination for Dubai visitors .

Some of Dubai's most popular beach resorts are strung out all along its length, making this one of the most popular places to stay for visitors who want to make hitting the beach a major part of their Dubai stay.

The large areas of the beach have excellent facilities, with plenty of sun loungers, restaurants, lifeguards patrolling the stretches designated for swimming, and water sports operators offering jet skiing, kayak rental, parasailing, and boat rides.

This is a safe beach choice for families traveling with tots, as the turquoise water of the Gulf lapping the shore is shallow and calm.

Address: Dubai Marina, Dubai

Highlight: Delve behind the high-rise facade to discover Dubai's heritage

Dubai's excellent museum is housed in the Al-Fahidi Fort, built in 1787 to defend Dubai Creek. The fort's walls are built out of traditional coral blocks and held together with lime. The upper floor is supported by wooden poles, and the ceiling is constructed from palm fronds, mud, and plaster.

In its history, the fort has served as a residence for the ruling family, a seat of government, garrison, and prison. Restored in 1971 (and again extensively in 1995), it is now the city's premier museum.

The entrance has a fascinating exhibition of old maps of the Emirates and Dubai, showing the mammoth expansion that hit the region after the oil boom. The courtyard is home to several traditional boats and a palm-leaf house with an Emirati wind-tower. The right-hand hall features weaponry, and the left-hand hall showcases Emirati musical instruments.

Below the ground floor are display halls with exhibits and dioramas covering various aspects of traditional Emirati life (including pearl fishing and Bedouin desert life), as well as artifacts from the 3,000- to 4,000-year-old graves at Al Qusais archaeological site.

Address: Al-Fahidi Street, Al-Fahidi

Highlights: Aerial vistas of the modern cityscape below and galleries focused on Dubai's history

Sitting slap-bang between Dubai's older neighborhoods clustered around the creek and the city's modern sprawl, this ginormous 150-meter-high picture frame is one of Dubai's latest sights.

Inside Dubai Frame , a series of galleries whisk you through the city's history and explore Emirati heritage before you travel up to the Sky Deck, where there are fantastic panoramas of both old and new Dubai to be snapped on the viewing platforms.

Afterwards check out Future Dubai gallery, which imagines what a futuristic vision of the city will look like.

Address: Zabeel Park, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road

Highlight: Take a day off sightseeing and head to the white sand for a relaxed break beside the sea

Backed by a fringe of palm trees, the stretch of La Mer Beach in Jumeirah is an easygoing spot for a full day of sun and sea.

Water sports operators here offer Jet Ski trips, boating, fly-boarding, and kayaking for beachgoers who itch to get off the sand, but for those who simply want to sloth out between swimming, there's plenty of sun lounger rental and a wide variety of cafés and restaurants just a hop from the sand for snacking and full meals.

La Mer is a sheltered bay with tranquil water, so it's a safe choice for both families and less-confident swimmers. Like all of Dubai's main beaches, it is regularly patrolled by lifeguards during the day.

If the sea and sand aren't enough, at the beach's northeast point, you'll find Laguna Waterpark, with several waterslides, a lazy river, and a surf pool.

Address: Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah

Highlight: Family-centered fun is the focus at these interconnected theme parks

At Dubai Parks and Resorts , your entertainment needs are all rolled together into one location. The only problem here is choosing what you want to do.

This mammoth project incorporates a swag of world-class theme parks providing something for everyone, whatever your age.

Motiongate takes its theme from Hollywood productions, with rides based around movie blockbusters; Bollywood Parks brings the world of India's famous movie industry alive on its rides; and Legoland Dubai and Legoland Waterpark provide younger visitors with a fun-packed day out on its interactive rides, water slides, and wave pool.

The district's attached Riverland Dubai dining hub means that there's no need to leave after you've exhausted yourself with theme park pursuits, as there's plenty of evening entertainment here as well.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Jebel Ali

Highlight: Gain greater insights into Islam on a tour of Dubai's most famous mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is considered by many to be the most beautiful of Dubai's mosques. An exact copy of Cairo's Al-Azhar Mosque, which is eight times its size, the Jumeirah Mosque is a fine example of Islamic architecture.

This stone structure is built in the medieval Fatimid tradition, with two minarets that display the subtle details in the stonework. It is particularly attractive in the evening when lit with floodlights.

The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Cultural Understanding (which also runs a program of tours, lectures, Arabic classes, and cultural meals) organizes guided tours of the mosque designed to try to foster a better understanding of the Muslim faith.

Tours begin at 10am daily, except Fridays.

Address: Jumeirah Road

Highlight: Learn to kitesurf on one of Dubai's best water sports beaches

Thanks to its surf and prevailing wind, the northern section of Umm Suqeim Beach is Dubai's top spot for kitesurfing.

The beach is home to an array of water sports operators offering equipment hire, as well as kitesurfing lessons, along with paddleboarding and kayak rental.

This long stretch of yellow-sand beach sweeps south along the coast (becoming Umm Suqeim Beach), with plenty of space for sunbathers looking to lap up a lazy day of swimming and soaking up the rays on the sand and excellent facilities and dining choices. There are good views of the Burj Al Arab from the southern end of the beach.

While in the Jumeirah area, it's well worth brushing off the sand for an hour to visit the Majlis Ghorfat Um Al-Sheef just a three-kilometer hop from the beach. Built in 1955, this was the summer residence of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed al-Maktoum.

The residence, made out of gypsum and coral block, has been restored and maintains much of the original beautiful decor, giving you a better understanding of the opulent lifestyle of Dubai's rulers.

The Majlis Gardens feature a reproduction of an impressive Arab irrigation system, and many shady date palms.

Address: Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah, Dubai

Highlight: Take in central Dubai's skyscraper views from ground-level

Sheikh Zayed Road is the main thoroughfare running through Dubai's modern downtown business district.

This wide, eight-lane highway is rimmed with towering glass, chrome, and steel high-rises along its entire length. It's one of the best on-the-ground vantage points for Dubai's famed skyscraper views.

Main attractions are along, or just off, the strip between the roundabout and the first intersection, and most of Dubai's famous malls are located along the road's route.

The Dubai World Trade Tower has an observation deck on its top floor, which offers visitors panoramic views (a cheaper option than the Burj Khalifa), and the Gold and Diamond Park (Sheikh Zayed Road) is a one-stop shop for jewelry lovers, with 118 manufacturers and 30 retailers all under one roof.

Highlights: Adrenaline-packed rides and hours of fun for kids of all ages

The IMG Worlds of Adventure theme park, near Global Village, is immersive entertainment at its finest and has thrills and spills for both kids and big kids.

With one zone devoted entirely to Marvel's iconic characters; another to dinosaur-themed rides; and a zone where the Cartoon Network takes the helm, with gentler rides and activities for younger children, there's something here for every age.

Whether you want to help the Avengers battle Ultron, scare yourself silly in a haunted house, or join Spider-Man as he swings through the city, this is heaven for families looking for a fun-filled day out.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Dubai

Highlight: Shop the traditional way amid the heritage souks of Deira

Deira lies on the northern bank of Dubai Creek and the winding streets here unveil the melting pot of different nationalities that have come to call Dubai home. On the shore, ancient dhows load and unload with modern banks, hotels, and office buildings as a backdrop.

For travelers, Deira is most famous for its traditional souks (markets), which bustle with shoppers at all times of the day.

Deira Gold Souk is world-renowned as the largest gold bazaar in the world.

The Deira Spice Souk sells every imaginable spice, with stalls overflowing with bags of frankincense, cumin, paprika, saffron, sumac, and thyme, as well as the fragrant oud wood, rose water, and incense.

The fish market provides a much less touristy experience.

While in the district, culture lovers shouldn't miss two of Deira's finely restored architectural gems. Heritage House was built in 1890 as the home of a wealthy Iranian merchant and later became the home of Sheik Ahmed bin Dalmouk (a famous pearl merchant in Dubai). Today, it's a great chance to see the interior of a traditional family home.

The Al-Ahmadiya School, constructed in 1912, is the oldest school in Dubai and is now a museum of public education.

Highlight: Get the best aerial views of the city with Dubai's best thrill-seeker activity

For the ultimate sightseeing adrenaline rush while you're in the city, tandem-skydive over Dubai from Skydive Dubai's Palm Drop Zone.

There are bird's-eye views of the city's skyscraper coastline, Dubai Marina, and the artificial islands of Palm Jumeirah, all the way down the 3,900-meter-high plunge.

The entire experience takes around 90 minutes and includes the flight; an instructor you'll be harnessed to during the skydive; and a skydiving camera operator, who'll take pictures during your dive.

If you prefer desert dune scenery, Skydive Dubai also operates a separate tandem-skydiving experience in the desert, about 35 kilometers out of the city.

Skydiving in Dubai is an activity you need to book as far in advance as possible due to limited numbers and the high popularity of the experience.

Highlight: Enjoy the best of Dubai's cultural life while on your trip

For nighttime attractions, look no further. Opened in mid-2016, Dubai's classy new opera building is the centerpiece of the waterfront district in downtown Dubai and is a major cultural hub and main entertainment venue.

The Dubai Opera hosts a year-round program of famous musical theater productions, concerts by world-class musicians, opera, ballet, and classical music, as well as smaller productions, comedy nights, and concerts.

The 2,000-seat theater building itself is an astonishing piece of architectural mastery and one of Dubai's new landmarks, with its highly-contemporary glass and steel walls jutting out over the waterfront, built to resemble the curves of a traditional dhow.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Road

Highlight: Take a nature break without leaving the city

Escape the city's skyscrapers for an afternoon at the Dubai Butterfly Garden . For a slice of nature, this vast butterfly garden, with around 15,000 butterflies flitting under the domed enclosures, can't be beaten.

It's a great chance for kids to get close-up views of butterflies as they often land on visitors' shoulders and hands.

There's a museum here, too, with plenty of information on butterfly varieties, their habitats, and life cycle.

Highlight: Explore Dubai's sea-going heritage and life along this coastline before the contemporary city

Dubai's architectural, cultural, and maritime heritage is showcased at the Heritage and Diving Village, with displays related to pearl diving and dhow building—two of old Dubai's historic economic mainstays.

There are also recreations of traditional Bedouin and coastal village life, with Persian homes, a traditional coffeehouse, and a small souk where potters and weavers practice their handicrafts at the stalls.

Local music and dance are performed from October to April, and visitors can get advice from practitioners of traditional medicine.

Location: Shindagha, Bur Dubai

Highlight: Spend an early morning spotting flamingos and other birds amid the city's wetlands

You don't have to go too far away from the skyscrapers to soak up a more natural vista. The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary incorporates the mangrove forests and wetlands of Dubai creek.

An important stop-off on the migration routes, it's a prime place to spot flamingos in winter when massive flocks of these majestic pink birds wade through the lagoons, backdropped by soaring high-rises.

Various hides in prime spots have been set up within the park to allow bird watchers good views of the birdlife.

Address: Ras Al Khor Street, Dubai

Highlight: Delve into Dubai's history amid the museums of this royal complex

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum was the Ruler of Dubai from 1921 to 1958 and grandfather to the current ruler. His former residence has been rebuilt and restored as a museum that is a fine example of Arabian architecture.

The original house was built in 1896 by Sheikh Saeed's father, so he could observe shipping activity from the balconies.

It was demolished, but the current house was rebuilt next to the original site, staying true to the original model by incorporating carved teak doors, wooden lattice screens across the windows, and gypsum ventilation screens with floral and geometric designs.

Thirty rooms are built around a central courtyard with wind-tower details on top.

Inside are the exhibits of the Dubai Museum of Historical Photographs and Documents with many wonderful old photographs of Dubai from the period between 1948 and 1953.

The marine wing of the museum has photos of fishing, pearling, and boat building. Throughout the building there are many letters, maps, coins, and stamps on display showing the development of the Emirate.

Nearby is the Crossroads of Civilizations Museum , which explores the United Arab Emirates' historic role as a trading center between Asia, Africa, and Europe long before oil became this region's most prominent industry.

Located inside the old residence of Sheikh Hashr bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, who was a member of Dubai's ruling family, the exhibits trace this coastal area's history as part of the global trade routes, with displays of artifacts and manuscripts.

Also on-site are the Rare Books and Manuscripts Museum and the small Armory Museum.

Address: Al Khaleej Road, Bur Dubai

Highlight: Explore Dubai's burgeoning contemporary art scene

Part of the old Al Quoz industrial district, Al Serkal Avenue has been regenerated to become Dubai's main arts hub and is home to some of the city's most important contemporary art galleries.

Established gallery names such as the Green Art Gallery , The Third Line and the Ayyam Gallery have made their home here, while a host of smaller gallery start-ups have also moved in.

The district's program of rotating collections focuses both on the work of major artists, as well as highlighting new Middle Eastern talent.

This emerging district is also the place to come for fashion and accessory boutiques by local designers, pop-up restaurants, and café life, and it showcases the energetic and youthful buzz of a city, which is usually more noted for its corporate face.

Address: Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz Industrial District

As well as Dubai's glut of theme parks, a stay in the city can incorporate plenty more active things to do.

There are plentiful desert tours that head out beyond the skyscrapers if you want the kids to sample more natural scenery. Many of the tours include sandboarding or camel riding.

To stick to the coast, the beaches and resorts offer kayak hire, as well as a bundle of other water sports to get the kids working off some energy in the sea.

And for those who enjoy the complete oddity of having some snow-fun amid the heat, the indoor ski run at Mall of the Emirates can't be beaten.

For easy access to Dubai's top tourist attractions, the best place to stay is Downtown Dubai.

Prime attractions nearby include the landmark Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building; Dubai Mall; and the Dubai Fountain. You'll also find plenty of shops, restaurants, and art galleries in this vibrant precinct.

If you're seeking some sun, sand, and sea, Jumeira and Dubai Marina lay about 15 minutes by car from Burj Khalifa and are also popular bases for tourists.

Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient and central locations for touring the city:

Luxury Hotels:

• The Palace Downtown Dubai is a five-star resort right in the heart of Downtown Dubai, combining traditional Arabic design features with contemporary facilities, all overlooking Burj Khalifa Lake. There's a pool, spa, and restaurants on-site.
• Armani Hotel offers rooms decked out in sophisticated luxury. It's set in the Burj Khalifa, for a stay in the top address in Downtown Dubai, with a pool and spa on-site.
• Burj Al Arab is Dubai's most iconic stay, set on its own manmade island, with palatial interiors, world-class restaurants, and suite-style rooms that overlook the waters of the Gulf.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Ramada by Wyndham Downtown Dubai is in a top-notch location in Downtown Dubai, neighboring the Dubai Opera. There's excellent in-house facilities, including a pool, restaurants, and gym, and the spacious, modern rooms all come with balconies.
• Manzil Downtown by Vida is a classy, contemporary boutique hotel option with a large outdoor pool area and white-on-white rooms that incorporate modern Arabesque design features into their interiors. It's in a handy, central location in Downtown Dubai.
• Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach sits on Dubai's The Walk promenade, in Jumeirah so it's a top choice for those who want a waterfront location. There's a large pool area, private beach and plenty of resort facilities. It's about a 12-minute drive to the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai from here.

Budget Hotels:

• XVA Art Hotel offers contemporary boutique-hotel style within a traditional Dubai building, right in the heart of the historic Al Fahidi (Old Dubai) district.
• Ibis Dubai Al Rigga is a great budget choice thanks to its central Deira position, close to Dubai Creek and the city's major historic tourist attractions, as well as its well-equipped, small rooms and in-house facilities, including two restaurants and a gym.
• Ibis Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel , next door to the namesake mall with Ski Dubai, is a popular option with both business and leisure travelers thanks to its modern, good-value rooms and solid facilities, including two on-site restaurants.
• See the Sights : Dubai Private Modern or Traditional Dubai Tour is one of the most convenient ways to see the city's sights. This half-day guided tour takes you to the main attractions, including Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai Museum, Deira Gold Souq, and more.
• Soar over the City: Dubai Helicopter Tour offers incredible views across the city and desert surroundings on a 15-minute or 25-minute helicopter ride. There is no better way to see the famous Palm Jumeirah or the manmade archipelago created in the shape of a world map, known as The World, than from the air.

By far, the best times to visit Dubai are the months of November, December, January, February, March, and April when the weather is, in general, at its most pleasant. This is peak tourism season, though, so prepare for hotel prices to be at their highest.

Keen shoppers after discounts galore should head here during January when the entire month is devoted to the Dubai Shopping Festival. Be aware that January is Dubai's coldest month, though, with an average high of 23 degrees Celsius and temperatures dropping as low as 14 degrees.

For the best weather, particularly if you're going to hit the beach or head out into the desert during your trip, plan to travel here during the months of November or April when the average daytime temperatures sit between 25 and 26 degrees Celsius, and only peak as high as 31 degrees.

These two months usher in plenty of blue skies and sunshine for outdoor activities, but without the scorching heat of summer. Whichever month you choose, pack a warmer layer. You will need it to counter the ferocious air conditioning of Dubai's many indoor venues.

Other Considerations When Timing Your Visit to Dubai

Before deciding on which month to visit, check out when Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting is happening. During this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sundown every day. The Islamic calendar is lunar, so the dates for Ramadan shift every year.

Ramadan in the UAE is strictly followed, and eating, drinking, chewing gum, and smoking in all public spaces is forbidden from daybreak to sunset for everyone, including non-Muslims.

Although some restaurants, mostly those based in international brand hotels and usually one designated café in a mall, will still serve food during the day (with blinds pulled down across the restaurant windows, so that those fasting don't need to see people eating) nearly all restaurants and cafés shut during daylight hours and only open up at sunset.

From sunset onwards, it's feasting time, with many hotels and restaurants putting on special Iftar (the Ramadan after sunset meal) menus, which need to be pre-booked due to high demand.

Businesses, including tourist sights and shops, are open, but keep shorter hours for the entire month.

A benefit of visiting during Ramadan is that the city is less busy than usual, as many Dubai locals decide to head on holiday during this month, and the city also receives fewer tourists.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Beyond Dubai: To dive into the UAE's other cities, check out our articles on things to do in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah . If you want to learn about the beach resorts beyond Dubai, have a look at our feature pieces on Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman .

More on United Arab Emirates

17+ TOP Dubai Sights & Tourist Attractions (+Map & Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: April 15, 2024

Looking for the  best things to do in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates,  and feeling overwhelmed? Deciding which of the most popular Dubai attractions to visit is indeed not easy, especially if you are visiting the city for the first time and have limited time, not even to mention the budget.

From gleaming skyscrapers and modern landmarks to the desert and historic souks, Dubai has something for everyone. But it’s also a rapidly growing city with countless new tourist attractions springing up like mushrooms and choosing which places to visit and which ones to skip might look like a daunting task…

So to help you figure out where to go and what to see in Dubai, in this guide we share the  VERY BEST sights and TOP tourist attractions in Dubai that are worth your time the most . In addition, we also include a few fun experiences for those looking to experience Dubai beyond the ‘musts’.

We also created a  map of all the top places that should help you plan your Dubai sightseeing itinerary. You can find it at the bottom of this article. In addition, for every place featured in this guide, we include some practical tips that will help you make the most of your visit. Take a look!

Good to know:   We list the must-see places and experiences first, followed by some additional tips for things to do in Dubai further down the list.

If you are short on time, concentrate on the top sights indicated as ‘must-see’ first. In addition, see if you can also fit in some of the ‘highly recommended’ experiences listed further down.

But if you have more time and are looking for even more ideas for places to visit and interesting tourist attractions beyond the most popular sights, be sure to check the complete list.

TIP: If you are not sure how to plan your trip, on our blog, you can also find sample itineraries for first-time visitors: a Dubai stopover itinerary (from 6 hours to 1-2 days) and a detailed Dubai itinerary for up to one week .

Here are the main landmarks, best sights, and top tourist attractions in Dubai:

1. Burj Khalifa

If there is one place you have to see in Dubai, it’s Burj Khalifa , the tallest building in the world. This iconic skyscraper is the most visited landmark in Dubai.

While you will see Burj Khalifa from all over the city, it’s most impressive when seen from the bottom. So don’t miss that!

In addition, no trip to Dubai would be complete without ascending to the 124th and 125th floors for breathtaking views of the city skyline, coastline, and desert. For an extra price, you can also visit the SKY Level on the 148th floor.

Good to know: Standard tickets include timed-entry access to 124-125th floors. However, even with a dedicated time slot, be prepared to queue for a long time. The SKY Level 124,125, and 148th floors ticket is more expensive, but includes skip-the-line access for the security check and elevator. It also includes access to the lounge with snacks and drinks.

PRO TIP: Whatever option you choose, be sure to book your tickets online in advance or you may not be able to visit at all. If you want to catch the sunset at the top, be sure to book a time slot at least 1.5 hours before the sunset time (just beware that those time slots are also more expensive).

2. Dubai Mall

You might be wondering why in the world we list a shopping mall as one of the must-see places in Dubai… Well, the Dubai Mall is not just a shopping paradise, but a destination in itself. Plus, it’s located right at the Burj Khalifa so you’ll come here anyway.

The largest shopping mall in the world, Dubai Mall has over 1,200 shops, including high-end designer stores and flagship fashion brands. In addition, you can choose from more than 200 restaurants and food outlets. But it’s worth coming here even if you are not interested in shopping and dining.

You can’t miss the gigantic Dubai Aquarium – the centerpiece of the Mall, or you can get a ticket and visit inside. There are also huge waterfalls, a 155 million-year-old dinosaur skeleton, an Olympic-size ice skating rink, a mini-city for kids KidZania , and countless other attractions. You could literally spend several days in here and still not see it all…

TIP: If you want to visit the aquarium, opt for a combo ticket that includes Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium. Otherwise, the aquarium price is really steep for what it is.

3. Dubai Fountain Show

The captivating Dubai Fountain Show can be seen on the Burj Lake right outside the Dubai Mall, at the foot of Burj Khalifa. It’s a mesmerizing water, music, and light show that takes place multiple times a day and is FREE to watch.

The world’s tallest performing fountain, it dances for a few minutes to a selection of different melodies ranging from popular hits to traditional Arabic and classical music.

Good to know: The Dubai Fountain shows run every half an hour from 6 PM to 11 PM. There is also a performance at 1.30 PM, plus at 1 PM on weekdays and 2 PM on weekends.

PRO TIP: If you are looking for something nice to do in Dubai, book a boat ride on Burj Lake during a fountain show . It takes just 30 minutes and is not expensive (definitely for Dubai standards). Everyone in our family really enjoyed it.

4. Old Dubai & Traditional Souks

Dubai has more to offer than its modern landmarks and one of the best places to experience the authentic side of Dubai is its Old Town .

Be sure to visit the historic neighborhood of Al Fahidi (formerly known as Bastakiya), cross Dubai Creek on a traditional  Abra boat , and don’t miss the best traditional markets in Dubai – the Gold Souk and Spice Souk .

To be completely honest, the Al Fahidi neighborhood is not that authentic, but has the feel of an overly nicely restored open-air museum. You can wander through a few picturesque narrow alleyways lined with wind-tower houses, art galleries, and quaint cafes. There are also several tiny museums and some traditional shops selling souvenirs to tourists.

Nevertheless, it’s the best place to catch a glimpse of old Dubai and get a better understanding of the fascinating journey of the fascinating expansion of the UAE in just a few decades. The transformation of a few tiny fishing villages in the desert to the global metropolises of the 21st century is nothing short of remarkable.

PRO TIP:  Visit the old town  with a local guide ! That way, you can be sure to see all the musts but also learn more about the history of Dubai. The tours are very affordable and some also include local food and drinks. We visited the Dubai old town and traditional markets on different occasions, most recently with this highly-rated tour and I can highly recommend it as one of the top experiences in Dubai.

5. Dubai Marina

Surrounded by towering skyscrapers and filled with luxury yachts, Dubai Marina is one of the must-see places where you can experience the glitz and glamour of Dubai.

The best way to explore the area is by taking a leisurely stroll along the promenade known as Marina Walk. It’s almost 3 kilometers long and is lined with upscale restaurants, trendy cafes, and luxury boutiques. If you don’t want to walk the entire length, focus on the area close to Marina Mall or join a guided  e-scooter tour .

For a unique perspective, hop on a luxury yacht cruise – it’s a great and very relaxing way to see some of the most impressive skylines. If you are looking for a more traditional experience, you can also opt for a dhow dinner cruise to admire the dazzling skyline illuminated against the night sky.

There is so much more to do at the Dubai Marina than just enjoy the scenery! You can go  jet skiing , parasailing , zip line across the Marina , or even dine in the sky .

6. Dubai Desert

Dubai has grown into a huge ultra-modern metropolis, but its roots are still in the desert. So no trip would be complete without seeing the Dubai desert. Even if just for the contrast and to get a better understanding of how remarkable the journey of the UAE has been.

Let me be very honest with you – the desert around Dubai is not that impressive, especially if we compare it to places like e.g. Sossusvlei in Namibia or Death Valley in the USA. However, there are many exhilarating desert safari experiences, such as dune bashing in a 4×4 , quad rides , camel riding , hot-air balloon flights , etc. and these are well worth your time.

In addition, most Dubai safari tours include a visit to a desert camp, built in a traditional Bedouin style. Here, you can indulge in Arabian BBQ dinner and taste all kinds of local food, see the national bird of the UAE – the falcon, or get a henna tattoo. In the evenings, you can also see all kinds of traditional performances such as Tanoura dance, belly dancing, or fire shows.

Good to know: There are  many desert tour options and most of them last 4 to 7 hours. The desert camp experience is similar on all evening tours, but be sure to read the tour description to choose the main activity (jeep, quad, camel, etc.) that best aligns with your interests. For example, most desert tours include a very short camel ride (for a picture), but only a few offer a longer camel ride experience.

Our experience:  We have been on two desert tours in Dubai (on different trips) and really enjoyed them both. One of them included dune bashing in a jeep and the other one – camel riding . They both included dinner and other desert camp experiences.

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Dubai

7. Dubai Museum Of The Future

HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

The Museum of the Future is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai. The remarkable building is a must-see, but the museum itself is quite interesting and well worth a few hours of your time.

The museum is very interactive and showcases Dubai’s vision of the future and what it will look like some 50 years from now. They cover all kinds of topics like space travel, artificial intelligence, and robotics, but also climate change, healthcare, spirituality, etc.

PRO TIP:   Reserve tickets for the museum at least a few weeks before your trip. When we traveled, they were sold out for almost 3 weeks, not even to mention being able to pick a time slot that fits your itinerary. Also, if you can, book the first time slot in the morning so that you can enjoy the interactive exhibits before it gets too crowded.

8. Sky Views Observatory & Sky Edge Walk

Sky Views Observatory  offers a great view of Dubai’s Downtown. It’s also one of the best places to admire the iconic Burj Khalifa from a higher angle at a rather close distance.

In addition, you can also walk over a glass-bottom walkway, slide down a transparent tube at the side of the building, or – for an additional fee – do the Sky Edge Walk on an open-air platform on the 52nd floor.

Good to know:  Regular tickets are very affordable and much cheaper than the Burj Khalifa tickets. But if you are not afraid of heights and have some extra time, we highly recommend a ticket that also includes the Edge Walk – it’s one of the most unique things to do in Dubai!

9. Global Village

Global Village Dubai  is one of the most popular attractions in Dubai, popular with locals as well as international visitors. Just as the name suggests, it’s a place where you can experience a wide variety of cultures from all over the world.

With over 90 countries represented, it’s a unique opportunity to get acquainted with different countries, sample traditional foods, or purchase some interesting souvenirs. There are also cultural shows and live performances.

It’s a bit like a big country fair, but very unique because of its global character.

Good to know:  A visit to Global Village is very affordable and  entry tickets  cost just around $6. However, you’ll have to pay extra for most of the rides and attractions inside.

PRO TIP:  Avoid weekends and try to arrive around the opening time (usually around 4 pm, but during Ramadan around 6 pm). Friday and Saturday evenings are the busiest.

10. Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah  is a man-made palm-tree-shaped island in the Arabian Gulf and connected to the city via tunnels and bridges and tunnels. The Palm is home to upscale residences, luxury hotels, and beachfront resorts, including the famous Atlantis, The Palm .

There are several places of interest to see at the Palm including the best water park in Dubai, Atlantis Aquaventure and Dolphin Bay, Lost Chambers Aquarium, and several luxurious sky pool experiences.

If you just want to catch a glimpse of this remarkable feat of engineering, visit The View at The Palm Observatory . From here, you can enjoy 360° views of the city and the Arabian Gulf, including an elevated view of this unique palm island.

PRO TIP: For the best aerial views and to fully appreciate The Palm, opt for a  sightseeing helicopter tour .

11. Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab  is one of the most recognizable symbols of Dubai. The sail-shaped luxury hotel was opened in December 1999 and was the first one in a series of Dubai’s most remarkable landmarks that were built in the 21st century.

One of the world’s most luxurious and most expensive hotels, Burj Al Arab is not only impressive from the outside. Inside, you can admire its lavish interiors and find some extravagant experiences such as its world-famous gold cappuccino.

Good to know: A stay at this hotel will quickly cost you over $1,500 per night. But a tour of the interior is much more affordable. For an additional fee, you can upgrade to the luxury tour to include a visit to the 25th floor (where the Royal Suites are located) and a sip of the gold cappuccino.

12. Souk Madinat Jumeirah

NICE TO SEE

Located just near the Burj Al Arab,  Souk Madinat Jumeirah  is a bustling indoor market that combines traditional Arabian architecture and Middle Eastern charm with modern-day comforts such as air conditioning and meticulously clean facilities.

You will find an array of little shops here selling all kinds of traditional merchandise and souvenirs. There are also bakeries, cafes, and a variety of restaurants.

With small rivers, little bridges, and traditional Arabian architecture, the area feels like a charming little town. You can walk around or take a boat on the picturesque waterways offering nice views of the Burj Al Arab.

Good to know: You can easily combine a visit to the Souk with that of Burj Al Arab. Boat rides can just be booked and paid at the spot.

13. Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame  is another remarkable landmark that you have to see in Dubai. This colossal picture frame is visible from afar so you can’t really miss it. But it’s also possible to visit it inside.

The 150-meter-high observation deck has a glass-bottomed walkway and also offers panoramic 360° views of both old and new Dubai.

The views are quite nice, but not nearly comparable to those from Burj Khalifa, Sky Views, or the View at The Palm. On the other hand, the structure is absolutely unique and we personally found it worth a visit.

Good to know:  Depending on the season and time of day, it can be very busy here. Be sure to  book tickets online  and if you can, try to visit either early in the morning or in the evening.

14. Miracle Garden

Miracle Garden  is a must-see in Dubai for everyone who loves flowers, colors, and all kinds of quirky displays. From cartoon characters like the Smurfs to gigantic swans and from colorful castles to a life-size A380 Airbus plane – everything here is covered in flowers.

The world’s largest natural flower garden, Dubai Miracle Garden features over 150 million flowers. However, don’t expect a big variety of flowers here. There are not many plants that do well in such a hot and dry climate, so the majority of floral displays are created using petunias.

Good to know:  Buy skip-the-line tickets online and plan an hour or two for a visit. It’s quietest in the morning. However, many people combine a visit here to that of the nearby Global Village, and the latter only opens late in the afternoon, so keep that in mind if you want to visit both attractions on the same day.

15. Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark & Lost Chambers Aquarium

NICE TO SEE (MUST DO if visiting with kids)

Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark is the biggest water park in the world and by far the best one in Dubai. Featuring over 100 water rides and attractions from splash pools to adrenaline-rushing water slides, Aquaventure is great for all ages.

In addition, you can also meet sea lions or swim with dolphins, and enjoy all kinds of water sports. You can visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium which is located at the same place.

This is a must-do if you are visiting Dubai with kids (especially teenagers!), but it’s definitely not just for families.

PRO TIP:  Atlantis Aquaventure tickets are cheaper if booked online, and you can save a bit more if you book at least a week in advance. We recommend  a combo ticket  that includes entry to the Lost Chambers Aquarium. Here you can find more ticket options , including dolphin experiences.

LEARN MORE:  Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

16. AYA Universe

AYA Universe  is one of our family’s favorite places to visit in Dubai. It’s not a must-do, but it’s also a very unique experience that will leave you speechless.

A visit to AYA is like stepping into a series of different fairytale-like worlds, with colorful light displays and captivating high-tech experiences. Some of the rooms reminded us of the beautiful dreamy universe created in Avatar films .

We visited AYA Universe with our teens who are hard to impress, and they loved it. We spent much more time than expected here, wandering through different rooms and simply sitting down and enjoying the moment. It’s such a nice and positive experience. We loved it!

Good to know:  Book your  tickets online and count about 45-60 minutes for a visit. If you want to enjoy it without too many people around, we recommend booking the earliest time slot.

17. Dubai Beaches

Dubai has many beaches and since the temperatures are suitable for swimming the whole year round, you may want to plan to spend some time at the beach. By far the best way to do this is by choosing a hotel that has its own private beach or is located near one of the public beaches.

One of the nicest public beaches in Dubai is Marina Beach at Jumeirah Beach Residence. There is a very nice waterfront area here with tons of cafes and restaurants and lots of hotels. Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach is one of the most popular options here.

We once stayed at Doubletree by Hilton JBR Beach nearby which has its own private beach, but we walked to this area all the time because it was so nice. We had most of our lunches and dinners at Marina Beach unless we were away sightseeing.

Jumeirah Public Beach is another beautiful Dubai beach that is well worth visiting. In addition to white sands and swimming, here you can also enjoy a view of the iconic Burj Al Arab which makes a great backdrop for your vacation pictures. Jumeirah Beach Hotel is a very nice place to stay in this area and all guests enjoy free access to the adjacent Wild Wadi Waterpark.

La Mer Beach further north and closer to the city center is also worth checking out. This area is still developing but already has a nice hip feel. We recently stayed at the Rove La Mer Beach Hotel and really enjoyed it. The location is also great for sightseeing since it’s so close to the downtown area.

More Ideas for Things to Do in Dubai

There is SO MUCH to see and do in Dubai that it’s impossible to cover all those experiences in one article (or visit in one trip). Nevertheless, I want to highlight some additional places and attractions that I think are certainly worth it.

So here are some additional recommendations for fun things to do in Dubai:

• La Perle by Dragone is the #1 show in Dubai. This is a mind-blowing acrobatic show in, on, and above water and in the air. If you enjoy Cirque de Soleil shows, you’ll love this one!
• The Green Planet   is an indoor rainforest with a wide variety of tropical plants, birds, and animals such as sloths, squirrel monkeys, etc. It’s great for families but is enjoyable for all age groups.
• Dubai Butterfly Garden is a great place to see all kinds of colorful butterflies from all over the world. It’s located just next to the earlier-mentioned Miracle Garden so you can easily visit both.
• iFly Dubai is an indoor skydiving center. If you ever wanted to try skydiving but didn’t dare, this is your chance to give it a try in a safe and controlled environment. Our kids loved this!
• Skydiving . If you rather try the real thing, there are quite a few possibilities to go skydiving in Dubai. The views are amazing!
• Skiing and snow experiences . If you want to experience winter in the desert, you can go skiing in Dubai. But that’s not it! They have other snow experiences as well such as a Giant Ball, Bobsled, Tubing Run, and Bump Car to mention a few.
• Water sports , jet skiing , parasailing , etc.
• Theme parks and water parks. There is no shortage of all kinds of theme parks in Dubai. Some of the best include IMG Worlds of Adventure and LEGOLAND Dubai (this one also has a water park). If you are looking for more water parks, check out Wild Wadi as well – it’s a lot smaller than Aquaventure if you want to avoid the big crowds.
• Day trips to the other Emirates. The most popular are day trips to Abu-Dhabi , but you can also visit Al Ain ‘Garden City’ or go on a snorkeling day trip to Fujairah .

READ ALSO: Best Abu Dhabi Day Tour from Dubai

Map of Top Dubai Attractions

To help you get a better idea of where all the main Dubai attractions are located, we created a  map  indicating all the main points of interest and top sights mentioned in this article.

This should help you plan your time in Dubai. However, please keep in mind that distances between places are big and traffic is very busy. Even with the skip-the-line tickets, you’ll often need several hours for the main attractions and can only visit a few of them per day. So plan your time well!

In addition, remember that Dubai can get scorching hot, and not just during the summer months. So dress appropriately, stay hydrated, and plan outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day.

TIP:  For more information and helpful tips, please also see our guide with top travel tips and things we wish we had known before visiting Dubai via the link below. It’s an essential read when planning a first trip!

READ ALSO: Dubai Travel Tips

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

So, this is our guide to the very best things to do in Dubai. I hope it gives you a better idea of what to expect and helps you plan an unforgettable trip.

If you are still wondering whether Dubai is worth a trip… Yes, it is! Even though it feels quite artificial and polished, it’s also a very unique destination that will impress even the biggest skeptics. It’s well worth seeing (and experiencing), at least once!

More tips for visiting Dubai:

• What to Wear in Dubai
• How Expensive is Dubai
• Public Transport in Dubai
• What It’s Like to Visit Dubai in February
• Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• Best Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai
• 1-2 Days in Dubai
• Dubai Itinerary for up to 7 Days
• Fun read: Interesting Facts About Dubai

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin this image!

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Visit Dubai: Top 31 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions

Things to do in dubai: the 31 best places to visit (all highlights).

You’re planning to visit Dubai during your next trip?

Great idea!

With its impressive skyscrapers and the numerous activities you can do in Dubai , you will for sure enjoy your trip to one of the trendiest destination in the world.

In order to help you plan your stay, I have prepared this guide of the 31 best things to do in Dubai , with all points of interest and must-see attractions.

In addition to this list of things to do and activities, I will also give you itineraries to visit Dubai in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days (or even 1 week!) as well as my selection of the best accommodations depending on your budget.

So, what are the best things to do in Dubai? Where to stay?

1. The Burj Khalifa

2. the dubai mall, 3. the dubai fountain, 4. deira district and its souks, 5. bur dubai, 6. atlantis hotel / the palm jumeirah / aquaventure waterpark, 7. the palm jumeirah / the pointe / the view at the palm, 8. dubai marina, 9. the burj al-arab, 10. dubai museum / al-fahidi fort, 11. dubaï garden glow, 12. dubai frame, 13. dubai aquarium and underwater zoo, 14. the walk and the beach / jumeirah beach residence, 15. the madinat jumeirah souk, 16. mall of the emirates / ski dubai, 17. global village, 18. etihad museum, 20. dubai canal walk, 21. the financial district, 22. jumeirah mosque, 23. miracle garden, 24. dubai creek park, 25. shopping in dubai, 26. img worlds of adventure, 27. dubai parks and resorts, 28. ain dubai and more activities in dubai, 29. excursion in the desert, 30. abu dhabi, visiting dubai with your family, how many days to spend in dubai, 1 day in dubai, 2 days in dubai, 3 days in dubai, 4 days in dubai, 5 days in dubai, 1 week in dubai, where to stay in dubai, where to eat in dubai, flying to dubai: airfares, tourist map of dubai, you’re traveling to dubai these articles will help you , visit dubai: all must see attractions.

The Burj Khalifa is for sure THE place to visit in Dubai!

The tallest skyscraper in the world (828 meters) has been open to the public since 2010 and has quickly become the symbol of the city.

Every day, thousands of visitors flock to the tower and take one of the fastest lift in the world up to the viewing platforms located on the 124th and 125th floors .

From there, you can enjoy an extraordinary panorama over the whole city!

And that’s not the highest point yet!

You can even go up to the 148th floor , to reach the highest viewing platform in the world (555 m high).

You should visit the Burj Khalifa in the evening , to enjoy the view over the illuminated city from the highest observation deck in the world .

To visit the Burj Khalifa , you should really book your skip the line ticket online in advance .

This will allow you to choose your visit time slot and avoid the long waiting lines to buy your tickets.

Another important advantage is that tickets are cheaper online than directly at the counter. And that’s the same for all the activities you can do in Dubai!

There are different types of tickets available (click on the orange link for information and to book):

• Ticket At The Top Burj Khalifa – Access to 124th and 125th floors.
• Ticket VIP At The Top Sky – Access to the 148th floor of Burj Khalifa + 124 and 125 floors + quick access to the security checkpoints and elevator.
• Ticket The Lounge – Access to floor 152 + 153 + 154, the lounge bar of the Burj Khalifa
• Ascent to the 124th floor + lunch or dinner at the Burj Club restaurant.

If you plan to visit the Dubai Aquarium as well , you should choose the Burj Khalifa combined ticket (access to 124 and 125) + Aquarium. It’s much cheaper than buying the 2 tickets separately!

To visit Dubai , you can also purchase the Dubai Explorer Pass .

With this pass, you have access to 3, 4, 5 or 7 tourist attractions (depending on your choice). The following activities are offered:

• Burj Khalifa
• Excursion in the desert
• Dinner cruise in the marina
• Access to the world famous Aquaventure Waterpark of Atlantis Hotel
• Ticket for the Hop on Hop off bus.

Since all these attractions are among the best things to do in Dubai, this City Pass is really the best way to save money!

For more information about this pass and the activities included, click on the button below :

In the city center , right next to the Burj Khalifa, there is the Dubai Mall .

This huge mall is the most visited shopping center in the world!

With more than 1200 shops and hundreds of restaurants, you will for sure find something that fits your taste and your budget.

And there is more:

This shopping temple also houses indoor waterfalls, an aquarium (more about it below), an ice rink , a go-kart track , a flight simulator , cinemas , arcade games and a lot more!

The Dubai Mall is open every day from 10am until midnight . Restaurants and food court until 1am.

If you want to prepare your visit, you can have a look to the official website to see all the existing shops, restaurants and attractions.

The Burj Khalifa is only accessible via the Dubai Mall on the LG level . You will need to follow the signs “At The Top Burj Khalifa”.

To get to the Dubai Mall , simply get off at the metro station of the same name . But don’t be surprised, you will have to walk about 10 minutes (inside) to reach the mall.

You need to cover your shoulders and legs in public places in Dubai. Signs of affection like kissing or holding hands aren’t allowed.

This fountain (the largest water fountain in the world) is one of Dubai’s main tourist attractions.

The fountain show takes place several times a day on the artificial lake located at the exit of Dubai Mall, at the foot of Burj Khalifa.

You must attend it during your trip to Dubai!

The best is to go there at nightfall, when the tower is illuminated. It’s simply magical to watch the ballet of water jets dancing to music.

The show takes place every 30 minutes between 18.00 and 23.00 (there are also a few during the day).

The access is free of charge.

Quick tip: To get a great viewpoint, try to be there as early as possible, as the fountain show attracts thousands of tourists!

If you want to admire the sound and light show up close , then you should take an abra (traditional boat) on the artificial lake. You need to click here to book your tickets.

One of the best places to view the Dubai fountain show is from the terrace of the Apple store located in Dubai Mall.

Near the lake, you can also visit Souk Al Bahar , another gallery with a few shops , cafés and restaurants with terraces and fountain view . It’s worth to go have a look, even if only for its beautiful interior.

Dubai isn’t just about luxury and excess: there are still traditional and authentic neighborhoods to visit!

During your stay, you should really take a stroll through Deira district , a picturesque and popular place featuring several souks :

• The Gold Souk and its large number of shops with magnificent jewellery displays. It’s the largest of its kind in the Middle East.
• The Perfume Souk , in Sikkat Al Khail street.
• The Spice Souk and its colourful stalls to stock up on curry, saffron, cinnamon and more.

To visit the Old Dubai and Deira , the best is clearly to book a guided tour!

During this 3-hour tour , your guide will show you the souks as well as Dubai Museum , which I mention a bit further down this article.

The guide is really amazing, he will teach you everything about the culture, religion, daily life and history of Dubai.

You simply need to click on the button below to book your tour of ancient Dubai :

In Dubai, Friday is a holy day (equivalent to Sunday in Europe). Some places, such as the shops in Deira, are usually closed in the morning and do not open until late afternoon.

In the souks, don’t hesitate to negotiate prices : the prices quoted are often crazy (between 20 and 50 AED for a magnet!), but can easily be reduced to something more reasonable.

Deira is the best place to change money in Dubai . The exchange offices in this part of the city offer better rates than at the airport or in the shopping malls.

Bur Dubai is the other typical district you should definitely visit in Dubai.

This neighborhood is also one of the oldest in the city. It’s located just opposite Deira, on the other side of Dubai Creek.

To get there, you will have to take an Abra , a small traditional wooden boat (1 AED per person).

The short crossing will allow you to enjoy a beautiful view and see “Dhows”, the old ships with bright colors supplying the souks with goods.

Here are the best places to visit in Bur Dubai:

• Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House: The old house of the Al Maktoum family until 1958. You will see photos and documents about the history of the city.
• Old Souk, one of the oldest in Dubai. You can find everything there: slippers, souvenirs, fabrics, traditional lamps…
• Meena Bazaar, a market where you can buy Indian goods: fabrics, spices, jewelry.
• Hindi Lane and its Indian stalls. The best place to try traditional dishes at a reasonable price.
• Sheik Mohamed Cultural Center: Here you can have lunch with an Emirati in a traditional house. The center was opened by the Sheikh to allow tourists to learn more about United Arab Emirates (UAE) traditions. Reservation is required, click here.
• Al Seef Market , where you can admire replicas of traditional houses, with restaurants and shops.
• Dubai Museum: I will tell you more about it in section 9 of this guide.

From Bur Dubai you can also take an evening cruise in the bay of Dubai .

You have 2 options. Simply click on the links below for more information and to book:

• A cruise on a traditional boat + buffet dinner + demonstration of local folk dances
• A luxury cruise with gourmet dinner .

Let’s continue this Dubai travel guide with the very famous Atlantis The Palm Hotel. It’s clearly another landmark of the city!

Located on the the artificial island of Palm Jumeirah , this luxury hotel architecture was inspired by the myth of Atlantis.

This man made island in the shape of a palm tree (visible from space!), is mainly home to luxury villas and upscale hotels .

Even if you are not staying at Atlantis Hotel , you can access shops and restaurants in the lobby and enjoy the following attractions:

• Aquaventure Waterpark : Dubai’s most famous water park, where you can take some of the world’s best water slides and slide through a shark infested tunnel.
• Lost Chambers Aquarium and its thousands of animals: Sharks, rays, piranhas…
• Dolphin Bay, a lagoon where you can swim with the dolphins. Booking your “encounter with dolphins” automatically grants you access to the Aquaventure Waterpark on the same day. Buy your tickets here in advance to get the best price!

If you only want to visit the Aquaventure Waterpark and Lost Chambers Aquarium , you should buy this ticket in advance :

The Aquaventure Waterpark is one of the attractions that are included in the Dubai Explorer Pass.

To get to Atlantis Hotel and Aquaventure Park:

• Take the subway to DAMAAC Properties station
• Then take the tram to the Palm Jumeirah station
• Follow the signs to reach the monorail – 5 minutes on foot
• Take the monorail – 30 AED (round trip). There is a monorail every 15 minutes between 9:00 and 22:00.

If you want to stay at Atlantis The Palm Hotel during your trip to Dubai, you can check here for availability and prices.

To get a great view over the Atlantis hotel , you should go to the small beach at “The Pointe”, a shopping center with shops and restaurants on the waterfront .

The surroundings are very beautiful and the place is quiet.

The Pointe is also famous for hosting the largest musical fountain show in the world, with water jets reaching 105 meters high!

Just like the fountains of the Burj Khalifa, the sound and light show takes place every evening from 6pm. It’s really a must-see in Dubai at night!

You can get there by taxi (less than 10 minutes from Atlantis Hotel) or, when the station will be ready, with the monorail.

In Palm Jumeirah , you should also go to the brand new tourist attraction of Dubai: “The View at The Palm Observatory”. Located on the 52nd floor, a t 204 meters high , you will enjoy an extraordinary 360° panorama over the Palm Jumeirah and Dubai’s skyline!

As always in Dubai, it’s best to book your ticket for “The View at The Palm” in advance to avoid hours of waiting. You just have to click on the button below to book:

Access to The View is through level 2 of Nakheel Mall.

And if that’s not enough, on the 50th floor of The Palm, at 200 meters high , you can also swim in the world’s highest infinity pool! (It actually dethroned the famous Marina Bay Sands pool in Singapore ).

To take a dip and enjoy the sumptuous view of Dubai from the AURA Skypool , you must make a reservation on the official website .

You’re going to Dubai?

You probably know it: the hardest part of planning your trip is to find an hotel offering a good value for money!

And that’s even worse in big touristic cities like Dubai 😅.

The closer you get to your travel dates, the harder it will be to get a good deal. Tens of thousands of people will be visiting Dubai on the same dates as you , so you can be sure that the best deals are booked extremely quickly!

Hopefully, there is a pretty simple solution to this problem: do like me and book your hotel as early as possible!

So, my best advice is to take 5 minutes (now) to have a look at the list of travelers’ favorite hotels in Dubai.

And if you see a good offer, book it!

Most hotels offer free cancellation, so it’s quick, easy, and you will avoid the the inconvenience of finding nothing but mediocre rooms at exorbitant prices.

To check the current best deals for your hotel in Dubai, simply click on the green button below 😎:

Once you’ve booked your hotel, it will be time to continue reading this guide and find out more about the best things to do in Dubai!

Let’s continue our visit of the city with a walk in Dubai Marina district.

There, you can take a walk on a pedestrian promenade along the waterfront and admire the yachts and buildings.

You will pass by Dubai Marina Mall , a big shopping center featuring brands stores such as Levi’s, H&M, Guess or Balmain.

A great way to discover the Marina is to opt for a cruise on a luxury yacht. A VIP moment you will never forget! Simply click here to book your VIP boat trip .

This boat tour is also included in the Dubai Explorer Pass.

During your visit to Dubai Marina, you should definitely try the Xline, the longest urban zip line in the world !

You will start 170m above the ground, from the top of a building and then fly amidst buildings and over Dubai Marina at more than 70 km/h.

I really loved it, adrenaline rush guaranteed 😁!

Of course, photos and the video of your heroic deed are included in the price: A superb souvenir of your flight among the skyscrapers in Dubai!

If you want to do something extraordinary and unique in Dubai, this is undoubtedly the right activity for you.

To book your zip line over Dubai Marina and enjoy an extraordinary experience, simply click on the button below:

If the ticket isn’t available, you can also check on this other website (click here).

The Burj al-Arab, in Dubai, is one of the few 7* hotels in the world .

Of course, staying in a luxury suite with sea view is pretty expensive ( Click here to see the rates )!

But even if this hotel isn’t for everyone’s budget, I have good news: You can enter the most luxurious hotel in the world for a few hours by reserving a lunch, a snack or dinner at the Burj al-Arab restaurant .

Here are the different options available (click on the links for more info and to book):

• Snack and tea at the SkyView Bar on the 27th floor – Enjoy the view with pastries and cakes.
• Lunch or dinner at the Al Yam ball – The restaurant is located on the ground floor of the Burj Al Arab and offers a breathtaking view over the Persian Gulf.
• Access to the SkyView Bar + 2 free drinks
• Lunch or dinner at the Al Mahara Aquarium Restaurant – Enjoy the unique experience of tasting the dishes of an award winning chef in the middle of an aquarium!

To admire the architecture of the Burj al-Arab , you can also opt for a boat tour. The tour will also pass by the other emblematic hotel of Dubai: the Atlantis The Palm Hotel .

Book your speedboat tour around the Burj al-Arab and Palm Jumeirah by clicking on the button below:

Dubai Museum is located in Bur Dubai, in Al Fahidi Fortress .

It traces the entire history of Dubai , from the first tribes who lived there through the economic boom in the 1960s, to the future plans for the coming years.

There, you will discover former fishing boats, objects from the nomads’ daily life , weapons and archaeological remains .

The museum is very interesting and allows you do get a good grasp of how the city looked like before its impressive development.

The entrance fee to the museum is 3 AED . It’s open every day except Friday morning.

You’re looking for things to do in Dubai in the evening?

Then I would recommend you to go take a walk in Dubai Garden Glow .

This park features hundreds of sculptures coming to life every evening during light shows with musical backgrounds .

It’s really impressive to see!

The entrance to the Garden Glow costs 65 AED and includes access to:

• Dinosaur Park, a park with several animated dinosaurs that move and growl. Kids will love it! It’s best to visit this park 1 hour before dusk and then go to the Garden Glow.

For another 30 AED, you will also be able to go to Magic Park , a place where you can take funny pictures, thanks to the optical illusions of the 3D decors.

There is also an ice park with a few ice sculptures, but the entrance fee (45 AED) is in my opinion a bit expensive for what it is.

Dubai Garden Glow is open every day from 4pm to 11pm.

The Dubai frame , one of Dubai’s newest tourist attractions, is already very popular!

You can go to the top of this huge 150 meters high photo frame and enjoy a panoramic view over the 2 parts of the city: Dubai Old Town on one side and Downtown Dubai (the Burj Khalifa) on the other.

To make things even more exciting, part of the floor is made of glass . You can see everything that’s happening under your feet!

Tickets for the Dubai Frame needs to be booked directly here :

The aquarium is located in Dubai Mall .

You can admire one side of the shark aquarium for free in the shopping mall and need to pay for the rest of the visit.

As the tickets are sold cheaper on the Internet than on site, you should buy your tickets in advance by clicking on the link below:

• Tickets for Dubai aquarium and the underwater zoo

And if you also plan to visit the Burj Khalifa, you can save even more money by purchasing a combined ticket:

When entering the aquarium, you will first go through a tunnel filled with sharks and other fishes. Then, you will go to the underwater zoo located on the second floor to discover different species of fishes, seahorses and jellyfishes.

The highlight of the visit is the star of the zoo: King Croc, one of the largest living crocodiles in the world with 5 meters long for 750 kg.

Where can you go to the beach in Dubai?

If you want to spend some time at the beach or have a swim, you should go to the public beach called “The Beach ” (original, right? 🤪). Here you can rent deck chairs and umbrellas for the day and enjoy the sun and nautical activities .

Along the entire promenade called “ The Walk” , you can take a stroll along the sea or enjoy the many restaurants with terraces and chic boutiques.

To reach The Walk and The Beach , take the subway to DAMAC and then the tram to Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR).

If you like to go to the beach, either for sunbathing or swimming, you can also go to one of the following beaches of Dubai:

• Sunset Beach and its breathtaking view of the Burj Al-Arab.
• Kite Beach , very popular among kite surfers.
• Black Palace Beach, located near the Al Sufouh Road and much less known.
• Al Mamzar Beach, north of the city, bordered by a large park with a playground, picnic areas, swimming pools and a skate park.

Let’s now head to another beautiful place to visit in Dubai: Madinat Jumeirah souk .

This large shopping area is especially worth a look for its traditional architecture and oriental atmosphere.

With its canals and restaurants on the waterfront, the place is quiet and really beautiful. If you feel like it, you can even go on a boat tour on an abra.

From the outdoor areas of the souk, there are several beautiful viewpoints over the Burj Al Arab.

From Madinat Jumeirah souk, you can enjoy beautiful views over the Burj Al Arab.

In Madinat Jumeirah, there are also several luxury hotels: some parts of the souk are therefore only accessible to guests.

A great wait to discover the Souk Madinat Jumeirah, is to opt for a guided tour with pickup directly at your hotel!

It lasts 5 hours and also includes a visit to the old town of Dubai and an Abra boat tour.

Book your guided visit of the Old and New Dubai by clicking here.

In addition to the Dubai Mall, the Mall of the Emirates is another shopping mall you should visit during your stay in Dubai.

This is actually where Ski Dubai , the famous indoor skiing area is located!

Yes, in Dubai, you can even enjoy a ski or snowboard ride when it’s 40 degrees outside.

You simply need to book your ticket for Ski Dubai by clicking here, all equipment and clothing is provided.

And if you don’t want to ski, you can simply enjoy shopping or try one of the dozens of restaurants.

If you are traveling to Dubai with your children , you should take them to “ Magic Planet “, an indoor amusement park with arcade games.

If you’re going to visit Dubai in winter, you will be able to discover the Global Village .

Located outside the city, the Global village features reconstructions of world-famous monuments (the Tower of Pisa, the Colosseum of Rome or the Taj Mahal) and dozens of pavilions, each dedicated to a different country : Thailand , China , Japan , United States , Egypt and a lot more!

In each pavilion you will find dozens of stands with local specialties: Food , clothes and objects.

The Global Village is pretty big, so plan at least 3 hours for your visit .

Practical information about the Global Village:

• Open only from the beginning of November to the beginning of April – Daily from 16.00 to midnight
• Entrance fee: 15 AED for a single ticket or 100 AED for the Wunderpass with 4 activities (fair, motorcycle show…)
• On Mondays, it’s open for families with children and women only
• There is a small fountain show every evening at 20h and 22h
• To get there: Take the Metro to Mall of the Emirates station and then bus 106 (20 AED round trip, 1/2 hour bus ride).

You should visit the Global Village in the evening , it’s much more beautiful and impressive when the lights are on!

Be careful for the return trip, there is only one bus per hour.

Let’s continue this list of the best things to do in Dubai with Etihad Museum, dedicated to the foundation of the United Arab Emirates .

Thanks to several films, testimonies and interactive terminals , you can discover the entire process that led to the creation of the Union Treaty and learn more about the 7 sheikhs founders of the nation.

If you’re interested in history, it’s a very good complement to the visit to Dubai Museum.

Plan about 1 hour for your visit. The entrance fee is 25 AED .

To get to the Etihad Museum, take the subway to World Trade Center station and then a taxi.

La Mer is another nice place to walk next to the sea in Dubai.

There, you can find many restaurants as well as a long promenade and several beaches . You can also rent deck chairs for 100 AED/person.

La Mer also features a water park: Laguna Waterpark, with several slides , a wave pool etc.. An excellent idea if you are visiting Dubai with your children!

Click here to get your tickets for the laguna Water Park (cheaper than on site).

The Dubai Canal Walk is, as its name suggests, a very pleasant walk alongside the canal.

The walk starts near Business Bay subway station and allows you to follow the Dubai Canal for about 3 km. You can walk on both sides of the canal, crossing by one of the 3 very beautifully designed bridges along the way.

Although the place is still under construction, it already offers a wonderful panorama over skyscrapers and the Burj Khalifa tower .

Tip: you should do this walk at night! Undoubtedly one of the best free viewpoints on Dubai’s skyline .

On the canal, you can also enjoy a diner cruise and Abra tours .

The boats pass under an artificial waterfall , whose “curtain” opens automatically to let the boats pass!

The financial district and its skyscrapers are one of the iconic places of Dubai.

The DIFC (Dubai International Financial Center) not only houses offices, but also restaurants, luxury hotels (Fairmont, Radisson), art galleries and more.

Here are the best points of interest:

• Jumeirah Emirates Tower, 2 skyscrapers over 300 meters high
• Gate Building, a 60-meter arch housing the Dubai Stock Exchange
• Gate Avenue, a new shopping center
• World Trade Center, Dubai’s first skyscrapers
• Galleries of the DIFC , with renowned art galleries.

Jumeirah Mosque is one of Dubai’s main attractions for good reason: it’s the only mosque in the city that is open to non-Muslims .

Guided tours are organized daily (except Fridays) at 10.00 and 14.00 . You should be there half an hour before to make sure you get a seat. The tour lasts about 1h15.

You will of course need to be properly dressed: Arms and legs must be covered (that applies to everyone), and women should cover their hair as well.

You can visit the inside of the mosque and learn more about the rites and the 5 pillars of Islam . Photos are allowed.

More than 150 million flowers are waiting for you at Dubai Miracle Garden !

You know it, in Dubai, when they do something, they are really pushing it it far. So you can imagine that the Miracle Garden is much more than just a garden.

During your visit, you will be able to admire impressive structures representing Disney characters and even a replica of an A380 completely covered with flowers .

The Miracle Garden is listed several times in the Guinness Book of Records, notably as the largest flower garden in the world.

The park is only open from November to May, every day from 9am until 9pm (10pm on weekends).

To get there: Take the subway to the Mall of Emirates + bus 105 (20 min. ride). The entrance ticket costs 55 AED and needs to be purchased online by clicking here!

If you prefer, you can opt for package “entrance ticket + pick up at your hotel” by clicking on the button below. This ticket also gives access to the Butterfly Garden , which includes a dozen domes with thousands of butterflies .

Combined Miracle Garden + Global Village tickets (section 16 of this article) are also available:

During your holidays in Dubai, you can also take a walk in Dubai Creek park , one of the largest parks of the city.

This huge park , located directly on the waterfront , is very popular among locals on weekends. They come here to picnic with their families, and children can play in the many playgrounds available .

The entrance fee to the park is 5 AED.

There are 2 more attractions in the park (not free):

• The Children’s City: It includes a planetarium and several areas dedicated to the universe and the mysteries of the human body.
• Dubai Dolphinarium , where you can swim with dolphins.

Can you imagine going to Dubai without doing a bit (or a lot!) of shopping during your stay?

Here are the best addresses in the city to go shopping :

• Dubai Mall, Dubai’s largest and most popular shopping center
• Mall of the Emirates and its hundreds of shops
• The Walk promenade and The Beach at JBR
• Souks of Deïra
• Old Souk and Al-Seef market in Bur Dubai
• City Walk, a pedestrian-only zone with chic and trendy shops
• Souk Madinat Jumeirah
• Outlet Village , where you can find the biggest Italian and American brands.

IMG Worlds of Adventure is the second largest indoor amusement park in the world, just behind Warner Bros Park in Abu Dhabi .

In the park, you can for example ride a roller coaster , visit a haunted house or watch a 4D movie.

It’s divided into 5 zones:

• Marvel and its attractions featuring Hulk, Thor and other heroes!
• Lost Valley , dedicated to the world of dinosaurs
• Cartoon network
• IMG-Boulevard, with its restaurants and shops
• Novo Cinemas, a cinema equipped with the latest technologies.

The park is open daily from 11 am . More information about the prices and schedules can be found on the official website.

The entrance to IMG Worlds of adventure is included in the Dubai Explorer Pass ( click here for more info )

In Dubai, you can also visit an other amusement park: Dubai Parks and Resorts .

This leisure complex includes several theme parks and a hotel :

• Motiongate Dubai and its movie-themed attractions: Hotel Transylvania, Underworld, Zombieland, Kung Fu Panda or even the Smurfs!
• Bollywood Parks Dubai and its various environments inspired by Indian films.
• Legoland Dubai , dedicated to Lego bricks! You can even see a miniature representation of Dubai made with Lego.
• Legoland Waterpark, a water park with slides and wave pools.
• Riverland Dubai, an area with shops and restaurants. Accessible free of charge even without an entrance ticket.
• Lapita Dubai Parks and Resorts : an hotel inspired by Polynesian themes. You can book your stay at Lapita by clicking here.

There are several options for 1 day, with tickets granting you access to 1 park, 2 parks or all of them.

If you plan to spend 1 day there, you should in my opinion choose the “2 parks” bundle ticket. It includes access to Motiongate (the main park) + 1 other park (choose between Bollywood and Legoland Dubai).

2 parks are easily doable in a day and it’s a great way to save money!

Book your Dubai Parks and Resorts Pass for 2 parks here:

And if you just want to go to 1 park, click on the link of your choice:

• Ticket for Motiongate Dubai
• Ticket for Bollywood parks
• Admission ticket for Legoland

You’re looking for even more activities in Dubai ?

Here they are!

Here are the best activities to enjoy in Dubai (click on the links for more information and to book):

• The Green Planet, a biodome that recreates a tropical forest with its animals and plants.
• Tandem parachuting over Palm Jumeirah – Amazing!
• Helicopter flight above the main attractions of Dubai (Atlantis, the Burj Al Arab).
• Seaplane , scenic flight over Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah.
• A Jet-ski tour , to discover the main sights of Dubai from the sea: the marina, JBR and Atlantis Hotel.
• Dinner in the Sky , 50 meters above the ground
• Flyboard, a new trendy activity
• Introduction to scuba diving
• Parasailing
• Simulated freefall in a wind tunnel
• Horse riding in Dubai National Park.

And for those who are not afraid of heights, I highly recommend you to try one of the new tourist attractions in Dubai: Ain Dubai . It’s nothing less than the biggest Ferris wheel in the world!

The cabins go up to 250 meters high , so you can enjoy a fantastic view over the whole city during 40 minutes.

Book your ticket for the Dubai Ferris wheel by clicking on the button below:

For one of your evenings in Dubai, you can also go to “La Perle by Dragone ” show!

This is the most popular show in the city: the staging, the performances of the artists, the light shows and special effects: everything is outstanding!

You should really book your tickets as early as possible as there are only 2 shows a day :

The 3 best places to visit around Dubai

Now that you know everything about the best things to do in the city, it’s time to discover the 3 best places to visit around Dubai.

You can get there with organized day trips from Dubai or by public transport.

The most popular excursion around Dubai is an excursion into the desert .

Suggested day program:

• Pick up at your hotel and drive to the desert
• Jeep tour in the dunes
• Sandboard rides
• A camel ride
• Lunch or dinner (barbecue) in a Bedouin camp, with shows and entertainment: henna skin tattoo, belly dance.

To be sure that you are booking with a serious and reliable agency , you should book your desert tour in advance by clicking on the button below.

It’s clearly the best excursion into the desert: It’s so great that they will give you a full refund if you don’t enjoy your time!

And if you prefer a bit more action, you can opt for one of the 2 following tours:

• Excursion in the desert + Quad bike tour in the dunes
• Excursion in the desert + Buggy tour in the dunes

Both of them are really awesome, so choose the one that you prefer!

The excursion into the desert is one of the attractions that are included in the Dubai Explorer Pass.

If you prefer to admire the desert from above, you can also opt for a hot air balloon tour .

This will give you the opportunity to fly over the desert for an hour and admire the sunrise over the dunes! A magical and unforgettable show , completed by a falconry demonstration .

After your flight, you will also enjoy a gourmet breakfast with smoked salmon, caviar and fresh fruit.

This hot air baloon flight needs to be booked here in advance:

Abu Dhabi is the most famous city near Dubai.

You should really visit it during your trip, as it’s only 1h30 away from Dubai by car or by bus.

If you want to rent a car, you should check all car rental agencies rates on Booking.com Cars (click here). It’s the best way to get the best price!

Here are the best places to visit in Abu Dhabi :

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: this masterpiece of architecture is the symbol of the city, you need to visit it!
• Louvre Abu Dhabi, a modern museum with works from antiquity to the 21st century. The modern architecture of the building is also worth a look.
• Fortress Qasr Al Hosn : now converted into a museum about the city’s history
• Emirates Palace, the 7* hotel in Abu Dhabi. You can visit the inside free of charge.
• La Corniche, a long seafront promenade with beaches.
• Qasr Al Watan, also called the “Presidential Palace”: a magnificent palace both inside and outside, everything is covered with gilding and mosaics.
• Yas Island , where the Warner Bros amusement park and Ferrari World are located.

In order to organize your stay in the capital of the UAE , you should read my detailed article: The 17 best things to do in Abu Dhabi

If you don’t have much time to visit Abu Dhabi, the best is clearly to opt for an organized day trip to Abu Dhabi from Dubai!

Depending on your interests, you can choose one of the following:

• Great Mosque + La Corniche + Emirates Palace + Ethihad Towers + Marina Mall + Qasr Al Watan – My favorite to get a good overview of the city!
• Visit the Great Mosque and the Louvre Museum from Dubai – This tour allows you to explore 2 of Abu Dhabi’s must-see attractions in one day.
• Mosque visit only (1/2 day)
• In the morning excursion to the mosque + in the afternoon excursion to Ferrari World or Warner Bros .

Near Dubai, you can also visit the City of Al Ain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The journey by car or by bus takes about 2 hours .

In Al Ain, you can visit:

• Palace of Sheikh Zayed, the first president of the UAE. Today it’s a museum.
• Camel and dromedary market , held every day except Mondays.
• The oasis, for a walk among the palm trees.
• Al Ain National Museum, dedicated to local traditions.
• Al Jahili Fort
• Jebel Hafeet mountain , which offers a magnificent view over Al Ain.

To book your trip to Al Ain, simply click on the button below:

If you’re planning to visit Dubai with your family , here is the list of the best things to do with children:

• Visit to the Burj Khalifa combined with a visit to the aquarium and underwater zoo Book your tickets here!
• Kidzania (tickets for sale here!) in the Dubai Mall
• The Aquaventure Waterpark of Atlantis Hotel
• Dubai Garden Glow and its wonderful and colorful lit sculptures
• Discover and enjoy the beaches of Dubai
• Global Village, the perfect place for a great family evening!
• Laguna Waterpark
• Miracle Garden and its millions of flowers
• Dubai Creekside Park, one of the few places where your children can enjoy a bit of nature!
• IMG Worlds of Aventure
• Dubai Parks and Resorts
• Green Planet

As you have certainly noticed when reading this travel guide, there are many places to visit in Dubai!

You should thus plan at least 3 days to discover the city.

In my opinion, a one-week stay is really ideal to have enough time to see everything, enjoy the activities and even explore the surroundings.

In order to help you plan your stay, I will now give you optimized itineraries to visit Dubai in 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 days or a week.

Don’t forget that you can save money with the Dubai Explorer Pass!

It includes access to 3, 4, 5 or 7 tourist attractions.

To get more information about the activities included, click here:

If you only have one day to visit Dubai, then you should focus on the 2 main parts of the city :

• Visit Deira and the souks
• Cross the bay of Dubai on an Abra (traditional boat)
• Walk in Bur Dubai district
• Shopping at Dubai Mall
• Fountain show
• Go to the top of the Burj Khalifa

To get an overview of the city in 1 day , you can also take the Hop on Hop off bus. The tickets need to be booked here!

Another option can be to hire a driver for the day: he will take care of driving you everywhere.

It’s a great alternative if you don’t want to waste time on public transport!

You can book your private tour of Dubai by clicking here.

If you only plan a 1 day stopover in Dubai , then you should book the following guided tour . It’s specially designed to allow you to explore the city in a few hours .

You will be picked up and dropped off directly at the airport!

Simply click here to book your private tour of Dubai with pick up and drop off at the airport.

If you plan to spend a 2 days in Dubai , you should follow this itinerary:

• Visit Deïra and the souks
• Cross the bay of Dubai on an Abra
• Stroll through Bur Dubai district
• Visit the Dubai Museum, dedicated to the history of the city
• Go to the top of the Dubai Frame : it offers a magnificent view over the whole city!
• Visit Dubai Garden Glow , an enchanting garden with many illuminated sculptures.
• Visit Etihad Museum to learn everything about the history of the UAE
• Pass by Jumeirah Mosque
• Discover La Mer: take a dip, have lunch on a terrace, enjoy the good weather and the warmth of Dubai!
• In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Mall , the best shopping place in Dubai!
• Visit the Aquarium and the underwater zoo
• Attend the fountain show
• Go to the top of Burj Khalifa and enjoy the magnificent panorama from the viewing platforms at night!

For more info about this itinerary, you should read my detailed guide: 2 days in Dubai

You plan to stay 3 days in Dubai?

For the 2 first days, you can follow the program I mentioned above . And for your third day in the city, you will have 2 options :

1) Spend 1 day in Palm Jumeirah to discover the Atlantis Hotel, the Lost Chambers aquarium and the Aquaventure Park (book here) . Don’t forget to go to The Pointe in the afternoon to admire the view!

In the evening, you should see La Perle , the most famous show in Dubai.

2) Explore Dubai Marina district

• Start the day with a walk along The Walk . You can also go for a swim or relax by the sea.
• Go to the Marina and head to Dubai Marina Mall
• In search of thrills? Then you should really try the amazing Dubai Zip Line , starting from the roof of a skyscraper!
• And if you prefer a more relaxing activity, you should instead opt for a cruise through the marina .
• Go to the Mall of the Emirates
• Visit the Global Village and its pavilions from all over the world
• Attend the spectacular La Perle show .

To organize your 3-day trip to Dubai, you should read my detailed article: 3 Days in Dubai.

For a 4-day stay in Dubai , you can do the 3 days itinerary I mentioned above and add an excursion into the desert for your 4th day!

4WD vehicle tour in the dunes, sandboard , camel ride , dinner in a Bedouin camp and animations: you will have a wonderful day!

You’re planning to spend 4 days in Dubai? You should thus read my detailed itinerary: How to visit Dubai in 4 days.

If you are lucky enough to travel to Dubai for 5 days , you can add for your 5th day:

1) Spend the day at an amusement park: IMG Worlds of Adventure or Dubai Parks and Resorts .

2) Visit Dubai’s points of interests you haven’t seen yet:

• Stroll through the blooming avenues of Dubai Miracle Garden
• Do some shopping or, why not, ski in the Mall of the Emirates .
• Go to the Souk Madinat Jumeirah
• Admire the view over the Burj Al Arab
• Spend the rest of the day at one of the nearby beaches.

You can have a look at my detailed 5-day itinerary by clicking here : 5 days in Dubai .

If you also want to explore the interior of Burj Al Arab , don’t forget to book your lunch , snack or dinner . It’s the only way to get inside in if you’re not staying overnight.

You’re gonna spend one week in Dubai?

Then you can add the following:

• 1 day in Abu Dhabi
• 1 day in Al Ain

And if you don’t want to leave Dubai , you can enjoy the city a bit more and do amazing activities:

• Do the Canal Walk or opt for a dinner cruise on the canal
• Discover the skyscrapers of the financial district
• Relax in Creekside Park
• You want to see the city from above? Then opt for a helicopter flight or Seaplane Tour !
• Enjoy a dinner cruise in Deira on a tradional boat.

The best way to easily plan your 7-day stay in Dubai is to read my detailed article: How to spend one week in Dubai.

There are hundreds of hotels in Dubai, and choosing the best for your stay can be a bit complicated.

In order to help you out, I have selected for you the best hotels in Dubai for each district, depending on your budget. I have also made a special list of the most beautiful luxury hotels in Dubai.

As always, to get the best prices, you should book your hotel as early as possible!

The best hotels in Downtown Dubai (near the Burj Khalifa)

• DoubleTree of Hilton Dubai – Business Bay: Located 1.5 km from Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall. Very spacious and comfortable room, well decorated and equipped from 110€ per night, breakfast included. Strong points: free shuttle to the Dubai Mall, good breakfast, comfort, tranquility. This my favorite hotel in Dubai for its exceptional value for money!
• Rove Downtown: Only 600 meters from the Dubai Mall. Bright and clean double room with view on Burj Khalifa, from 150€, breakfast for 15€. Strong points: Access to the Dubai Mall on foot, helpful staff, free shuttle service to the beach, Dubai Museum or Madinat Souk.
• Taj Dubai: Located 800 meters from Burj Khalifa. Modern and luxurious room with bay window overlooking the city and marble bathroom starting at 220€ per night, breakfast at 32€. Strong points: The magnificent view from the roof, the Indian decoration, the large swimming pool. An excellent hotel in Dubai city center, perfect for a romantic stay!
• Palace Downtown: Located on the lake at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, this 5-star hotel offers magnificent rooms with balcony, with an exceptional view of the Burj Khalifa. From 380€ per night, breakfast at 39€. Strong points: the exceptional location, the beautiful surroundings, the very attentive and helpful staff. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Downtown Dubai!

The best hotels in old Dubai (Deira and Bur Dubai)

• Golden Sands Hotel Apartments : Located in Bur Dubai, 1.5 km from the Dubai Museum. Apartment equipped with kitchenette and washing machine, from 80€ per night, breakfast from 11€. Strong points: Cleanliness, the heated swimming pool, the comfortable apartments
• Swissôtel Al Ghurair Dubai: Located in Deira district. Warm and spacious room from 115€, breakfast at 27€. Strong points: the pleasant staff, the view, the good breakfast. It’s my favourite in Old Dubai for its excellent value for money!
• Hyatt Regency Creek Heights Residences: Located next to Creekside Park. Very spacious, super comfortable and very well equipped rooms starting at 130€ per night, breakfast at 33€. Strong points: 5 minutes walk from the metro, the warm welcome, the quiet location, the spa.
• Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek : 5* hotel located in Deira bay. Double room with balcony overlooking the bay from 150€, breakfast at 29€. Strong points: The proximity of the metro and the shops, the beautiful swimming pool, the comfortable bed and the amazing view. This is my recommendation for a luxury stay in Old Dubai!

Dubai’s best beach hotels

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Jumeirah Beach, Dubai: Located 300 meters from the beach. Rooms and apartments with sea view from 125€, breakfast at 27€. Strong points: The view, the comfortable beds, the location near the beach and the harbor.
• Amwaj Rotana, Jumeirah Beach – Dubai: Located along “The Walk”. Rooms with balcony overlooking the Gulf and Palm Jumeirah from 175€, breakfast at 24€. Strong points: the exceptional view, the proximity of the tram and metro, restaurants and shops at the foot of the hotel.
• Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach: Located 150 meters from the beach. Contemporary room with balcony and sea view from 230€, breakfast at 22€. Strong points: the infinity pool, the very good breakfast, the spa, the ideal location to enjoy the sea.
• Grosvenor House Hotel and Apartments: Located on the port promenade. Elegant and bright double room from 290€, breakfast at 42€. Strong points: Comfort, access to the private beach, the quality of the food.

The most beautiful luxury hotels in Dubai

• Atlantis The Palm, Dubai : One of the emblematic hotels of the city, located in Palm Jumeirah. Room from 300€, breakfast from 42€. Strong points: Includes access to Aquaventure Park and The Lost Chambers aquarium, private beach, swimming pools.
• Rixos The Palm Hotel & Suites – Ultra All Inclusive: Also located in Palm Jumeirah, this luxury hotel offers all inclusive rooms (all meals included) from 452€. Strong points: the quality of the meals, the setting, the amazing rooms.
• The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai: Located directly on the beach of JBR Walk. Elegantly furnished rooms with balcony and sea view from 500€ per night, breakfast at 39€. Strong points: 6 swimming pools, a private beach, the spa, the very helpful staff.
• Armani Hotel Dubai: Located in the Burj Khalifa Tower! Rooms decorated by the fashion designer Giorgio Armani, starting at 550€ per night, breakfast at 41€. Strong points: the privilege of sleeping in the Burj Khalifa, the refinement of the place, the view.
• Kempinski Hotel & Residences Palm Jumeirah: Located in Palm Jumeirah. Luxury suite with living room and dining room starting at 750€, breakfast included. Strong points: The private beach, the huge swimming pool and the beautiful gardens.
• Burj Al Arab Jumeirah: THE luxury hotel, one of the rare 7* hotels in the world! The “smallest” suite is 170m² and prices start at 1290€, breakfast at 74€. I can assure you that your stay in Dubai will be truly exceptional and unforgettable!

You didn’t find your dream hotel in this selection?

You should thus have a look at my article about the best hotels in Dubai by clicking on the following link: Where to stay in Dubai?

In every shopping mall or touristic place in Dubai, you will find dozens of restaurants offering cuisines from all over the world .

The hardest thing will be to choose one!

If you feel like dining on a terrace with a beautiful view , you should go to Madinat Al Jumeirah souk and eat in one of the restaurants along the canals.

La Mer or The Walk and The Beach are also great locations to enjoy a meal close to the sea.

As restaurants are quite expensive in Dubai, if you want to spend less money, you can also eat in the food courts of the shopping malls.

You will find the classic Mc Donald’s, KFC, Burger King etc.. as well as small fast foods offering Chinese or Indian cuisine for example.

The old districts of Dubai (Deira/ Bur Dubai) are also an excellent choice to enjoy “real” traditional cuisine at low prices!

As always, you should book your plane tickets as early as possible to get the best prices.

To check the rates and schedules for flights to Dubai, you can use our flight comparator, in partnership with Skyscanner:

To help you get a better idea of the city, I have created a tourist map of Dubai that lists all the tourist attractions I mention in this guide. You can view the legend of the map by clicking on the upper left button with a small arrow.

And you, what do you plan to do in Dubai?

Discover all my articles about Dubai : All my articles to help you plan your trip to Dubai are listed there.

• Dubai: The 30 best places to visit – All best things to do and activities!
• 2 days in Dubai – The perfect itinerary for 48h!
• 3 Days in Dubai – The best 72h itinerary
• 4 Days in Dubai – The defitinive guide to plan your trip
• 5 Days in Dubai – How to spend 5 days in Dubai
• 1 Week in Dubai – The best itinerary to visit Dubai in 7 days!
• Burj Khalifa: The definitive guide to all tickets + Tips
• Dubai Aquarium: discover one of Dubai’s must see attraction
• Dubai Mall: How to plan your visit of this huge shopping center!
• Dubai Old Town: 10 best things to do
• Dubai Fountain Show: all my tips to enjoy it to the fullest!
• Palm Jumeirah: the 15 best things to do!
• TOP Activities in Dubai – The 30 best activities and excursions to do in Dubai!
• Dubai Zipline – Price, info and reservations for the best experience in town!
• The best desert safaris in Dubai – my 7 favorites! (4WD, quad, buggy and more)
• Where to stay in Dubai? The guide to the best hotels by district, for all budgets
• Dubai Pass: The best way to save time and money in Dubai!

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Creator of the Voyage Tips blog, travel and photography lover. I give you all my best tips to plan your next trip.

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Discussion 3 comments.

Thank you so much for making this list. It was very helpful!

Thanks Manith!

I’m glad that my article about the best things to do in Dubaï helps you to plan your trip.

Enjoy your stay in Dubaï.

Dubai is spectacular! I made a solo trip to this city and had a great time. Though I haven’t visited all the places or did all the things, the three days and four nights I spent there were fabulous.

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Ultimate Top 10 Things to do in Dubai in 2024

After living in the UAE for a decade, we have discovered A LOT of things to do in Dubai.  We’ve made countless road trips across the UAE, taken our visitors up and down towering skyscrapers, bumped across desert dunes, enjoyed delectable dining bites and thrilling theme park rides while being enthralled by traditional Emirati experiences – but how do you pick out a top 10 for Dubai?

Some of Dubai’s highlights are undeniably expensive but worth it; Others are cheesy but irresistible for the bragging rights to the Insta moment. And many of Dubai’s most incredible attractions are completely free !

So if you booked your flights and sorted your Dubai visa , it’s time to narrow down your Dubai bucket list. Whilst we have a huge list of 150+ things you can see and do in Dubai here , we’ve selected the top 10 experiences you must try in Dubai. 

How long will I need in Dubai?

If you really want to “see the city” and experience the many different sides of Dubai, we think you need at least three days. However, if you only have a day or two on a stopover, that’s OK too; there’s plenty you can squeeze in – we show you exactly how to fit in all of Dubai’s attractions to suit your interests and available time over on our itineraries page .

You may also want to check in on our best time to visit Dubai guide , where we include month-by-month guides to help you narrow down your ‘must-see’ list for Dubai or these specialised guides:

• Dubai with Family: 80+ Fabulous things to do with kids in Dubai
• Dubai In Summe: 60+ coolest indoor things to see and do in Dubai
• Dubai at Night: Best things to do in Dubai after dark

Top 10 recommended experiences in Dubai

1. the dubai fountains & dubai mall.

Let’s start with something free and easy. The Dubai Fountains are an evening choreographed show at the foot of the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. Each fountain show only lasts for around 5 minutes, but there’s plenty to see and do in the immediate vicinity – not least of which is take a browse through the world’s largest shopping mall or dine at one of the dozens of restaurants overlooking the fountains.

Not just retail theory, you will find many spectacular sites inside Dubai Mall , from the world’s largest suspended aquarium tank (which is free to view) at the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo to the waterfall wall, giant ice skating rink, Kidzania for the kiddos and PlayDXB (Virtual reality theme park) for your tweens+.

Especially in the summer peak, you can easily spend a day or two stopover in Dubai just around Dubai Mall and the Downtown Dubai area, including Dubai Opera and the thrilling new Sky Views Observatory.

Click here to find exact fountain timings and our tips on the best viewing spots.

2. A day at Atlantis the Palm

If you are looking for an all-in-one package that accentuates Dubai’s luxurious and extravagant side, then Atlantis the Palm pretty much sums it up. Sitting in prime position at the peak of Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis is a luxury 5-star hotel attached to Aquaventure , one of the largest water parks in the world.

You can simply visit the water park for the outdoor thrills and spills or stay overnight at the hotel for an adventure inclusive of water park action and the impressive Lost Chambers aquarium.

If a trip to the waterpark is not within budget, you can always enjoy a walk along the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk or take in the views from The Pointe , opposite Atlantis.

3. A trip up the world’s tallest tower

We honestly cringed a little at adding this one.  Should we or shouldn’t we recommend this experience?

Even at its cheapest, you’re looking at around $30USD to just make it to the lower observation deck levels (still at an awe-inspiring 456 meters above the ground, mind you!). 

In an honest review – the queues can be long, the observation deck can be crowded, and the Dubai haze and fog can wreak havoc with the views (or make them spectacular, depending on what you’ve come for!)

But there really is only one record-breaking tallest tower in the world.  And on a good day, those views really are spectacular. Our top tip would be if you only have a day in Dubai, don’t spend it queuing up to get to At The Top. However, if time and budget permit – go for it!

This is one part of your Dubai trip you will really want to have planned out in advance, as pre-booked tickets are much cheaper and guarantee your spot rather than trying your luck on the day.

We have a detailed guide here on all your options for visiting the Burj Khalifa.

If you don’t fancy the price tag or the queues, here are our top alternative suggestions on how to take in spectacular views of Dubai.

4. A day trip to Abu Dhabi and the Grand Mosque

Undeniably one of the most beautiful buildings in the world and symbolic of modern Islamic UAE. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque can be found in neighbouring capital city Abu Dhabi, about 150kms west of Dubai.

Don’t limit your Abu Dhabi trip to just the Grand Mosque, however. There really is a different vibe to Abu Dhabi, and we’d strongly encourage that an overnight trip is needed in Abu Dhabi to fit it all in, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Qasr al Watan, the UAE’s presidential palace ( check out this free shuttle service you could use !).

If you are on a tight timetable, it is possible to spend a half-day checking out just the Grand Mosque. The mosque itself is free to enter; you would only need to pay for transport from Dubai. You can learn more about how to take a day trip to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque here .

If time does not permit a visit to Abu Dhabi, but you are still interested in experiencing a mosque and learning more about Islamic culture, then pop over to this guide to Dubai’s Mosques open to the public .

5. Explore Dubai Museum and the Al Faihidi Historical Neighbourhood

Please note: As of summer 2022, the Dubai Museum remains closed for renovations, but the surrounding areas are still open and very much worth exploring on foot.

You mustn’t leave Dubai complaining that it’s all shopping malls and concrete if you haven’t at least tried to dig beneath the surface.  The Dubai Museum and Fahidi Fort are great places to start but do continue to explore the surrounding area further on foot.

The past decade has seen a huge transformation of this small area of the city ( formerly known as Bastakiya ). Recognising that the city’s historical roots mustn’t get lost beneath the skyscrapers, this is a truly different side of Dubai. It is filled with museums, cafes, and galleries in the small winding alleyways.

We have a complete guide to Dubai’s many museums and historical sites of interest here if you would like to expand your search of the cultural side of Dubai.

We also strongly recommend visiting the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding ( SMCCU ). They can help you with cultural tours, mosque visits, traditional meal experiences, and much more – found at House 26 Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Al Musallah Street .

6. Wander the old souks

In complete contrast to modern Dubai and the shopping malls and skyscrapers of Downtown Dubai, you will find the Old Souks on the Deira side of Dubai.

For a true taste of Dubai, jump on a boat from Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood or the connecting precinct Al Seef over Dubai Creek to Deira. There are many different transport options, including cruises if you’d like to see more of the hustle and bustle along the creek banks or take a traditional abra for just 1 AED.

On the Deira side of Dubai, you will find the traditional Gold and Spice Souks and the Perfume Souk. Crossing back to Bur Dubai, you can explore the Textile Souk. All are still authentic trading markets.

Those wanting a more modern Arabian souk experience, head to Souk Madinat , further west in the Jumeirah area of the city. Not quite the same bargain hunting but nonetheless spectacular views and a wonderful shopping vibe, quite different to the malls.

See our pick of the top souvenirs you should pick up in Dubai here!

7. Enjoy the Beach

A large reason many tourists come to Dubai is to enjoy the year-round warm weather and sunshine. There are plenty of beachfront areas to explore around Dubai, but if you’re on a tight schedule, you may want to start with JBR – the Beach . 

The area has been designed with the tourist in mind, with perfectly manicured beach frontage offering water sports, camel rides, and everything in between!

Other beaches you may want to try include Jumeirah Beach for ‘that’ iconic photo of the Burj Al Arab (note current construction work somewhat obscured those views at present) , or try the much newer La Mer beachfront area if you enjoy fun and funky vibes and instagrammable beach huts along with plentiful dining options by the water.

You can see our complete guide to Dubai’s best beaches here or if you are looking for a fun addition to your Dubai holiday, check out these top private beach clubs for partying & relaxation .

8. Hit the desert dunes

A fabulous reminder of where you actually are, it doesn’t take long to head beyond the city’s immediate vicinity to one of the many Dubai desert safari camps . 

There are many variations on the desert safari available these days, including morning camel treks, falconry displays, and traditional desert camps if you want a full overnight experience.

Most desert safaris typically offer a hotel pick-up service mid-afternoon, followed by a spectacular dune-bashing journey into a camp where a traditional Bedouin dinner is served. Expect your experience to be accompanied by desert sports such as quad bikes, sandboarding, and dune buggy rides .

You’ll undoubtedly come away with henna hand painting and some incredible desert memories from shisha smoking to traditional Emirati “Al Ayala” and belly dancing shows! Adrenaline junkies are well-taken care of too, with many operators additionally offering dune buggies to sandboarding with their desert safari.

A morning desert safari is a great idea when the days are heating up or if you’re on a tight schedule.

If you’re looking for some camel experiences closer to the city, you don’t necessarily need to go on a full desert trek. We explain your camel riding (even camel cuddling!) options here.

9. Enjoy traditional Emirati Cuisine

Dubai is renowned for having a huge variety of international cuisine, but don’t leave without trying a traditional Emirati meal. Be it through the SMCCU cultural program or seeking out hidden gems across the city that offer Middle Eastern specialities through to those offering more traditional Bedouin-style dishes.

You can find our complete guide to Emirati food and where to find the best traditional restaurants in Dubai here.

10. A day trip to the Musandam Peninsula

If time in your Dubai itinerary permits for an extra day trip , this is a MUST!

You would be doing yourself an injustice to get as far as Dubai and not visit the most tranquil and beautiful corner of the Arabian Peninsula. And it’s literally a corner! Jutting into the Strait of Hormuz, it’s actually an Omani enclave.

We could also compromise and say a visit to the Hajar Mountains in Ras Al Khaimah, or Hatta will also give you a great taster of the country’s rugged beauty. But honestly, Musandam is in a league of its own when it comes to peaceful, raw beauty. 

You will need a full extra day on your Dubai itinerary as there is a border crossing involved and plenty of winding roads, but the reward as you float on a traditional dhow boat, watching dolphins play amongst the dramatic khors, is simply unmissable.

Find a reliable company for your Musandam day trip here .

Remember, this is only an introduction to what there is to see and do in Dubai. Your full Dubai itinerary will depend on whether you are a first-time or repeat visitor, along with your tastes and interests.

What more is there to do in Dubai?

There is plenty more to explore in Dubai whether you are family travellers , culturally curious, or simply want to enjoy some time in the sun (I know we are all of these!). Make sure you check out our guide to the best time to visit , so there are no surprises with the heat and religious events and pop over to check out these individual attraction reviews .

Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai

• Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Dubai , a handy guide on what to pack , and top tips for first-timers on the do’s and don’ts, laws, and customs to be aware of.
• Check out this incredible list of 150+ places you should visit when you’re in Dubai .
• Pick up a Dubai Pass from iVenture or a Go City Dubai Pass to save up to 50% on top Dubai attractions.
• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !!!
• Discover the best areas to stay in Dubai , or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to the Dubai Travel Blog

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links . Dubai Travel Planner

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• United Arab Emirates

50 Best Tourist Attractions in Dubai

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A city of mesmerizing contrasts, Dubai is Old World charm meets modern metropolis – and it blends the two together in ultimate style that few other cities around the world can match. Dubai attractions come in all forms; from traditional pedestrian markets to the world’s tallest building, and everything in between .

Having been built up exponentially over the past half-century, the city’s skyline is now peppered with towering skyscrapers, while its streets are lined with luxury malls and five-star hotels.

And yet despite all the modernity on display, Dubai has managed to retain much of its traditional Arabic culture and heritage – meaning that whether you’re a history buff, architecture lover, adrenaline junkie (make sure to venture out to the desert dunes nearby) or foodie (the souks are a melting pot of flavors that can’t be missed), you’ll be spoiled for choice for noteworthy attractions in Dubai .

Nowhere is this more evident than in the historic district of Bastakiya, where you can wander through meandering alleyways lined with colorful wind towers and traditional merchant houses before hopping over to the slew of modern attractions at Zabeel Park just 10 minutes away.

So, without further ado, here are our 50 best tourist attractions in Dubai that you simply cannot miss!

1 – Burj Khalifa

And, as you’d expect from a skyscraper of this status, the views from atop its observation deck are nothing short of extraordinary. As the tallest outdoor observation deck, at a whopping 1,820 feet high, visitors are greeted with 360-degree views of Dubai’s magnificent skyline and contrasting desert and ocean landscapes.

If you’re feeling extra fancy, head to the Atmosphere Grill and Lounge – an upscale 122nd-floor eaterie with floor-to-ceiling windows where you can sip champagne as you soak up the incredible vistas.

There are plenty of other Dubai attractions that offer breathtaking views, but few can match the sheer scale and grandeur of the Burj Khalifa. So if you’re looking to tick one thing off your Dubai bucket list, make sure it’s this!

• Burj Khalifa tickets

See also: Burj Khalifa tickets price – All you Need to Know

2 – Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Across the expansive 10-million-liter aquarium, visitors have the rare chance to get up close and personal with some of the most intimidating (yet often misunderstood) predators in the world, including sharks and rays, alongside thousands of bright and vibrant creatures (everything from seahorses to starfish and jellies) in impressively constructed rainforest and deep ocean environments.

If you’re feeling brave, you can even get up close with the friendlier creatures at the touch tanks! Located right next to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, the aquarium is one of the most centrally located attractions in Dubai – perfect for those who want to make the most of their time in the city.

• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo tickets

3 – Miracle Garden

The ideal morning destination for Instagrammers and nature-lovers alike, the Miracle Garden is a vibrant and colorful oasis that sells itself as one of the must-visits for anyone traveling to Dubai.

Set across 72,000 square meters of land, this enchanting garden playground is home to over 50 million flowers arranged into intricate designs and patterns (think hearts, butterflies, castles, ducks, and even a giant Emirates plane!).

About 70% of the garden’s displays are constantly changing throughout the year (with different themes for each season), so there’s always something new to see and light up that social media feed – no matter how many times you visit.

And if you thought the outside was impressive, just wait until you see the indoor butterfly garden! Here you can walk among thousands (close to 15,000, to be exact) of free-flying butterflies as they flutter around you in a beautiful temperature-controlled environment.

• Miracle Garden tickets

4 – Burj Al Arab Hotel

Made famous back in 1999 by being dubbed ‘the world’s only seven-star hotel’, the Burj Al Arab is one of Dubai’s most iconic and luxurious landmarks.

Positioned on its own man-made island just offshore from Jumeirah Beach, this sail-shaped hotel is impossible to miss – and it’s not just because of its size (at 321 meters tall, it’s one of the tallest hotels in the world).

From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted with an incredible level of opulence and extravagance with an engulfing atrium that needs to be seen to be believed. From the stunning marble lobby with its grandiose staircases and calming waterfall features, to the lavish suites complete with 24-karat gold iPads and butler service (there’s a staff-to-suite ratio of 8:1) – no expense has been spared in making the Burj Al Arab one of the most luxurious hotels on the planet.

Foodies, even if you’re not staying at the hotel, be sure to book a time to dine at one of the seven world-renowned restaurants on site. From delectable French cuisine at Al Muntaha, to classic seafood fare at Al Mahara – your taste buds will be in for a treat.

• Burj Al Arab Hotel tickets & tours

Wish to stay at the Burj Al Arab Hotel? Check price & availability .

5 – Dubai Frame

A little off the beaten track in Zabeel Park, the Dubai Frame is one of those hidden gems that’s often overlooked by first-time visitors to the city.

And that’s a shame, because this 150-meter tall structure offers some of the best views in Dubai. From the top of the frame, you can see old Dubai on one side and new Dubai on the other – making it the perfect place to get your bearings and understand how this city has transformed itself from a small trading port into one of the most futuristic metropolises on earth.

But it’s not just about the views from the 93-meter glass skywalk; inside, there’s also an informative museum chronicling Dubai’s rich history, as well a handful of displays pointing toward the future of the city.

Hot tip: arrive about an hour before sunset and, if possible, avoid weekends as it can get a little crowded.

• Dubai Frame tickets

6 – The View at The Palm

Regularly finding itself on the front of postcards and Instagram stories, the world-famous and manmade Palm Jumeirah archipelago, constructed to resemble the shape of a palm tree, has long been one of Dubai’s most renowned landmarks.

While there are plenty of ways to experience the Palm – from taking a leisurely stroll down the boardwalk or going for a swim at one of the many beaches – perhaps the best way to see it is from above at The View at The Palm.

Towering 240 meters above the sands, perched on the 52nd floor of The Palm Tower, this observation deck offers breathtaking panoramic views over the Palm, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Arabian Gulf, Bluewaters Island.

On a clear day, you can even see all the way to Burj Khalifa and beyond. So make sure you bring your camera, and reserve a few minutes for sipping on cocktails at the elegant View Lounge (the Cheers at The View package oozes VIP luxury, if that’s what you’re after).

• The View at The Palm tickets

7 – Sharjah Grand Mosque

Stepping away from the ultra-luxe and diving into the traditional and cultural side of this Arabian metropolis, the Sharjah Grand Mosque is one of Dubai’s most important (not to mention architecturally stunning) historical locales.

This beautiful house of worship was built in 2014 and can accommodate up to 25,000 worshippers at any one time.

With beautiful domes, chandeliers, and windows, as well as towering 60-meter-high minarets, this cherished landmark is brilliant inside and out.

Just be mindful that you dress modestly (think long pants/dresses and tops that cover your shoulders) out of respect for the customs.

And if you really want to get a taste of traditional Emirati culture, sign up for one of the mosque’s guided tours which dives into the building, city, and culture.

8 – Dubai Creek

Hop aboard a traditional dhow cruise and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time.

Once the beating heart of Dubai, this saltwater creek acted as an important trading hub for merchants from all over the world and was responsible for much of the city’s early growth.

Nowadays, it remains an integral part of local life – many residents still live and work on its shores – and is one of those places that really helps give Dubai its unique character.

You can explore the creek by taking a leisurely stroll along its banks, hopping on an abra (a small wooden water taxi) to get from one side to the other, or taking a dhow cruise at sunset for a truly magical experience as you glide past illuminated souks, modern skyscrapers, and traditional wind towers.

With a range of Dhow cruises to choose from – including combination tours that visit the nearby sand dunes or Burj Khalifa as well – you’ll find something intriguing no matter your interest or budget.

• Dhow cruises in Dubai

9 – IMG Worlds of Adventure

This one’s for the thrill-seekers.

A crowd-favorite when it comes to high-energy Dubai attractions, IMG Worlds of Adventure is an indoor amusement park like no other, boasting a total of four epic adventure zones (plus Novo Cinema), each inspired by some of the world’s most popular cartoons and comic books – Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley and IMG Boulevard.

With close to two dozen adrenaline-inducing rides and roller coasters, plus shows, costumed characters, and no shortage of unique eateries (Mama Scano’s Of Yancy Street dishes up a killer pizza), and plenty of shopping spots, there really is something here for everyone.

Whether you want to go on a heart-pounding rollercoaster ride or meet your favorite cartoon characters in person, IMG Worlds of Adventure is 1.5 million square feet – making it the largest indoor park in the world – of fun guaranteed to be a day that you’ll never forget.

Free parking is available, and the park is open every day until 10pm (11pm on the weekend).

• IMG Worlds of Adventure tickets

See also: Best indoor activities in Dubai

10 – Palm Jumeirah

Aptly named after its palm tree-shaped outline, this massive manmade island juts out into the Persian Gulf and is home to an array of luxury hotels, shopping malls, restaurants, and top-tier Dubai tourist attractions.

One of the most popular things to do on the Palm is to take a ride on the Palm Jumeirah Monorail, which offers stunning views of not only the island itself but also nearby Burj Al Arab and Atlantis The Palm . Along the way you’ll stop at the Golden Mile Galleria, Al Ittihad Park, Nakheel Mall, and Atlant, each destination worth exploring in its own right!

If you’re feeling active (and have deep pockets), experience a speedboat tour , or why not try your hand at paddleboarding or flyboarding (sometimes called the ‘jetovator’).

• Palm Jumeirah tours

11 – Dubai Fountain

Dazzling visitors time and time again, the Dubai Fountain is a whimsical water wonder that provides the perfect backdrop for any tourist snap. Located at the base of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and next to The Dubai Mall, the largest shopping center in the world, this massive musical fountain is truly a sight to behold.

Performing daily at sunset (and sometimes during the day), the Dubai Fountain puts on an impressive display of water, light, and music that is emblematic of Dubai’s desire to outperform the rest of the world in style, size, and technology. And it does so every half hour in the evenings from 6pm to 11pm.

Best seen from one of the many nearby cafes or restaurants with outdoor seating, it’s also possible to take a ride on an abra for a closer look – just make sure you’re prepared to get wet!

• Dubai Fountain show tours

12 – Desert Safari

Despite towering skyscrapers and engineering marvels in every direction, Dubai is still very much a desert city.

And what would a visit to the desert be without a safari?

There are plenty of tour operators offering half-day and full-day excursions into the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, but if you’re looking for something truly special, go for a day trip that hits up a wide range of the reserve’s essential activities.

Hurl down at high speed at the sand dunes, enjoy a camel ride or quad bike through the desert, pop into a camel farm to see a more traditional side of the area, and end your day with a homely Arabian dinner under the stars.

The desert is one of the most famous places to visit in Dubai. so just make sure to book in advance as these tours often sell out weeks ahead!

• Dubai desert safaris

13 – Bur Dubai Souk Market

One of the quintessential attractions in Dubai for shoppers and hagglers alike, the Bur Dubai Souk Market is a bustling waterfront labyrinth of narrow covered lanes overflowing with every conceivable type of merchandise.

From embroidered fabrics and hand-woven carpets to spices, gold, perfume, and souvenirs, this is the place to come if you’re looking to pick up a few bargains or simply soak up the unique atmosphere.

The market is open daily from 10am to 10.30pm, but the best time to come is in the evening when the heat has died down.

14 – Museum of the Future

Like stepping into a fascinating world of tomorrow, the Museum of the Future in the city’s Financial District is one of Dubai’s most unique and futuristic attractions.

Designed to be a platform for innovation and a hub for discussion about the future, the museum is home to a number of interactive exhibits that explore everything from artificial intelligence to biotechnology, the long-term sustainability of food, health, water, energy, transportation (flying cars, anyone?) and more.

There is also an area dedicated to children, where the little ones can solve challenges to become earth’s “future heroes”; and with 7 floors spread across the impressive, 77-meter-tall Torus-shaped structure, it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon if you’re interested in learning more about the cutting edge technologies that are shaping our next generations.

15 – La Perle By Dragone

Looking for things to do in Dubai at night ? An extravagant live performance of water, acrobatics, and pyrotechnics, La Perle by Dragone promises a night of unforgettable entertainment, holding its own as one of Dubai’s most popular evening shows.

With a cast of over 65 international artists (comprising 23 nationalities if you don’t mind), the show tells the story of Dubai through the lens of a young girl who stumbles into a dream-like state and wanders through the UAE in search of a lost pearl, uncovering different cultures, ecosystems, and people along the way – all brought to life with stunning special effects, including rainstorms, fireballs, giant drums, and flying motorcycles.

Set inside a purpose-built theatre with state-of-the-art technology and seating for up to 1300 people, La Perle is an immersive experience that will leave you feeling both exhilarated and inspired.

• La Perle by Dragone tickets

16 – Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark

One of the quintessential family tourist attractions in Dubai, especially considering the year-round sizzling heat, Atlantis Aquaventure is a sprawling waterpark located on the man-made Palm Jumeirah island.

With over 30 slides and attractions, including Dubai’s longest Lazy River, a zip line that soars 65 feet over the park, slides that plummet through shark-filled lagoons, and plenty of pools and beaches to relax in among a handful of other record-breaking rides, there’s something here for everyone – and with a dedicated Splashers Kids’ Play Area, little ones are guaranteed to have a splashing good time too.

Don’t forget to check out the park’s Sea Lion Point where you can get up close and personal with these charismatic creatures, or consider taking a leisurely stroll through The Lost Chambers Aquarium next door, to see over 65,000 marine animals swimming around in their natural habitat.

• Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark tickets

Hot tip: Check Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark tickets price to budget for a day where water meets wonder, featuring unique attractions like the Leap of Faith slide.

17 – Ski Dubai

A powdery white ski hill in the middle of the desert? Believe it or not, complete with chairlifts, penguins, and apres-ski alike, Ski Dubai is one of the top tourist attractions in Dubai – and with 22,500 square meters of indoor ski area (one of the top three largest in the world), its easy to see why.

Featuring 5 different slopes of varying difficulties, a dedicated freestyle zone, a range of lessons for beginner skiers and snowboarders alike, and a Penguin Encounter where you can meet and greet a handful of furry friends (you won’t find that at your typical ski resort!), this is definitely a one-of-a-kind experience.

You’ll find the multiple award-winning ski hill (named world’s best indoor ski resort for three years running) at the Mall of Emirates – an attraction in its own right that delivers four floors of shopping, over 900 stores, and a cinema to boot.

• Ski Dubai tickets

18 – Dubai Garden Glow

A must-visit during the cooler months, Dubai Garden Glow is a unique attraction that’s part sculpture park, part theme park, and glow-in-the-dark wonderland – all rolled into one.

Located at Zabeel Park and featuring millions of LED lights spread across five different zones (the Dinosaur Park, the Glow Park, the Glow Garden, the Ice Park, the Magic Park, and the Art Park), this is one of the most Instagrammable places in Dubai. Doused in neon and whimsically lighting up the night sky, Garden Glow showcases all kinds of quirky illuminated creations – from wildlife animals and marine creatures to flowers, trees, and birds, and a slew of mind-bending optical illusions, there’s something to catch your eye in every direction.

Throw in a variety of live entertainment including acrobatic shows, firework displays, and musical performances from local and international artists, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect night out.

• Dubai Garden Glow tickets

19 – LEGOLAND® Dubai

A crowd favorite for galavanting families and builders-to-be, LEGOLAND® Dubai is one of the best tourist attractions in Dubai for kids 2 to 12 years of age (but, let’s be honest, Lego-loving parents have a ball here too).

Featuring over 40 rides, shows, and attractions spread across six different themed lands (Miniland, LEGO® City, Adventureland, Imagination Land, Kingdoms Land, and Factory Land), as well as a waterpark next door, there’s enough here to keep little ones entertained for hours on end.

And with interactive experiences like LEGO® City Driving School where kids can get behind the wheel of their very own LEGO car and walk away with an official LEGOLAND® Driving Licence or the 4D Studios where next-generation technology is on display, the tots might never want to leave!

Hot tip: make sure to spend some time in Miniland – while not chock-full of rides, it impresses with over 20 million LEGO® bricks built to replicate Dubai’s iconic skyline and key landmarks from all over the Middle East.

• LEGOLAND® Dubai tickets

20 – Dubai Museum

Housed inside the oldest building in the city, the Al Fahidi Fort on the shores of the Dubai Creek which dates back to the late 1700s, Dubai Museum is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning about the Emirate’s rich culture and heritage.

Founded in 1971 to preserve Dubai’s history and display its traditional way of life (before the discovery of oil and the building up of the now-futuristic city), the museum today is an engaging, interactive space that tells the story of how Dubai has evolved from a small fishing and pearling village to the bustling metropolis it is today.

With exhibits on traditional Arabic houses, mosques, souks, boats, weaponry, musical instruments, and more (with some items dating as far back as 3000BC), as well as a walk-through diorama of old Dubai complete with sounds and smells, this is one attraction that provides insight into what life was like before all the glitz and glamour.

The life-size dioramas are a constant delight, and at only AED three per person (about 80 cents US), it’s an absolute bargain of a destination.

21 – Al Marmoom Camel race track

Lesser-known to tourists but one of the more renowned Dubai attractions among locals, the Al Marmoom Camel Race Track is where you catch a glimpse of a sporting tradition that’s existed in the Middle East for over 2,500 years – albeit in a more modern environment.

Al Marmoom is the biggest camel race track in Dubai, sits right next to the Al Marmoom Heritage Village in the heart of the desert, and, best of all, is totally free to visit.

Keep in mind: the race season usually runs exclusively from October to April in the winter months, with races happening in the early mornings on Fridays and Saturdays.

22 – Deira Clocktower

A symbol of the city and one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks, the Deira Clocktower is an impressive sight to behold whether you’re seeing it for the first time or the hundredth.

The clocktower was built in 1963 in the heart of Dubai’s old trading district to signify the first land-crossing between Deira and Bur Dubai – a nod to the area’s industrial development – and has since become one of the most popular photo spots in town (as well as a handy navigation point at the intersection of Umm Hurair Road and D89).

These days, the area has been built up around it, surrounded now by a busy roundabout where a plethora of eateries await – from Illusions Lounge and Yakitate to the Dampa Seafood Grill, the area is a formidable spot for blending history and architecture with a spot of lunch.

23 – Green Planet

Like taking a journey into your very own tropical rainforest, The Green Planet is one of Dubai’s newest attractions and a non-negotiable stop on any UAE itinerary for animal and nature lovers.

Housed inside a massive biodome along one of the city’s most popular lifestyle districts, City Walk, the indoor rainforest is home to over 3000 species of animals, plants, and birds – many of which are endangered or on the brink of extinction.

As well as being an incredibly educational experience (there are plenty of informative displays and talks throughout the day across the four levels: the Canopy, the Midstory, the Forest Floor and the Flooded Rainforest), it’s also great fun – kids will love getting up close to sloths, sugar gliders, snakes and parrots while adults can appreciate the engineering feat that is this captivating man-made ecosystem.

Looking to make your visit to the next level? For the brave of the brave, the Green Planet offers guests the chance to swim with Piranhas!

• Green Planet tickets

24 – Dubai Global Village

A Dubai institution, the Global Village is a journey through the diverse culture of humankind; showcasing people, traditions, history, and lifestyles of countries as far and wide as Egypt, India, Pakistan, Lebanon, Morocco, Syria, and China, to name but a few of the 90 different cultures depicted.

An unmissable spot for any first-time traveler to the city, the huge open-air themed market and entertainment destination puts the world in perspective; while we are all different and unique, we also have a lot in common – a love for food, language, and art, for starters.

Running typically from October to May, the Global Village is open for five months of the year and welcomes millions of visitors during that time – so if you’re in town, make sure to add it your itinerary and enjoy the famous replicas of World Heritage Sites like the Colosseum, Eiffel Tower, and Taj Mahal; the high-paced stage shows, and the family-friendly thrill rides!

• Global Village tickets

25 – 3D World Dubai Trick-Art ‘Selfie’ Museum

Guaranteed to impress (and confuse) your social media followers, the Dubai Trick-Art Museum is a fun-filled activity for all the family.

With over 185 different optical illusions and ‘trick art’ paintings, this air-conditioned venue holds its own as the largest 3D trick art museum in the world. Featuring iconic landmarks from near and far, as well as local scenes dedicated to fantasy, humor, or history, it’s the perfect place to while away a few hours (and rack up those likes).

Not only is it great fun trying to figure out how the paintings were created, but it’s also a unique way to explore some of Dubai’s most popular attractions without even leaving the city!

• 3D World Selfie Museum tickets

26 – Deira district

A shopper’s paradise, the Deira district is where you’ll find everything from traditional Arabic markets and souks to modern malls.

But that’s not all this historic area of Dubai has to offer: take a ride on an abra (traditional water taxi) down the creek, visit the Gold Souk to admire – and purchase – some of the finest jewelry in the world, or haggle for spices and souvenirs at the bustling Spice Souk. At the latter, you’ll uncover everything from fresh herbs to rare spice blends unique to the Middle East, making it one of the best places in Dubai for foodies and fragrance-lovers alike!

If, after browsing the aromatic Spice Shuk, you want to follow your nose to another level, The Perfume Souk (located next to the Gold Souk,) is a hotbed of smells that will tantalize your senses! Here, thousands of smells range from subtle to potent, and represent a host of the most common scents in Arabian life. And, of course, with hundreds of distributors and vendors, you can practice your negotiating skills all day.

And when you need a break from all that shopping, stop by one of the many cafes and restaurants for a refreshing cup of coffee or some delicious Emirati cuisine.

27 – Al Noor Island

A wonderful escape from the crowded city, Al Noor Island is a man-made oasis located in the heart of Sharjah on Khalid Lake.

A popular spot for picnics and days out, the island is connected to the mainland by a pedestrian bridge and features lush gardens, meandering walkways, charming fountains, and an incredible butterfly house.

The butterfly house is home to over hundreds of brightly colored butterflies which flit freely around the tropical plants; it’s truly a magical experience!

If you’re looking for a calm and serene spot to relax in nature, not to mention admire the brilliant skylines of both Dubai and Sharjah from afar, the new and still little-known Al Noor Island is the perfect place – just be sure to bring your camera to capture some amazing photos.

28 – The Lost Chambers Aquarium

If you’re after attractions in Dubai suitable for youngsters, the Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis The Palm is an excellent choice.

Home to over 65,000 marine animals, the aquarium features a series of chambers and tunnels (no less than 21 amazing exhibits) which impress and amaze with shark-filled lagoons, rays gliding overhead, and vibrant coral gardens.

Younger children will love the interactive shows where they can learn all about the different creatures inhabiting the aquarium; while older kids (and adults!) can get up close and personal with some of the residents on a behind-the-scenes tour or by participating in a snorkeling or feeding session.

With so much to see and do, and a handy proximity to the beloved adventureland that is the Atlantis Water Park, it’s a justifiably popular choice for vacationers.

• The Lost Chambers Aquarium tickets

29 – Motiongate Dubai

All about Tinseltown, show-biz, and the glitz and glam of Hollywood, Motiongate Dubai is a cinephile’s delight, combining all the tropes of classic American cinema into one incredible theme park.

With five themed zones (Studio Central, Dreamworks, Columbia Pictures, Lionsgate, and the kid-friendly Smurfs’ Village), attractions include a raft of 30 rides and rollercoasters inspired by some of your favorite films including The Hunger Games (be sure to ride the Capitol Bullet Train!), Shrek, Madagascar, Zombieland, Ghostbusters, and Kung-Fu Panda, and a whole lot more.

The youngest visitors will love the Smurfs Village Playland; while big kids can enjoy the exhilarating adrenaline rush of flying through New York City on The Green Hornet: High-Speed Chase or being plunged 58 meters into the air on Zombieland Blast Off.

Whatever your age or interests, there’s something at Motiongate Dubai to get your heart racing and scratch that movie itch!

• Motiongate tickets

See also: Best theme parks in Dubai

30 – The Dubai Mall

Enormous being an understatement, The Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping mall by total area, with over 12 million square feet of space (and fittingly located next to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa).

As well as being home to more than 1200 stores, 200 restaurants and cafes, an Olympic-sized ice rink with regular learn-to-skate programs, an indoor aquarium and underwater zoo, a kid’s edutainment center (KidZania), and much more, the mall also offers some incredible views of the Burj Khalifa from its outdoor terraces.

In other words? You could easily spend an entire day (or two) here and still not see everything!

Oh, and did we mention there’s a 25-meter-long, 155 million-year-old dinosaur skeleton too? Clearly, these guys don’t do things by halves.

Hot tip: because Dubai’s weather is typically off-the-charts hot, it’s best to visit the Mall during the peak heat hours of the day (air conditioning is your friend!) before venturing out in the evening to explore Dubai’s incredible nightlife when things have cooled down a bit.

31 – Love Lake – Dubai

Traveling with your loved one and looking for romantic things to do in Dubai ?

Large enough that it can be seen from space (take that, Great Wall of China), Love Lake is quite simply one of the most unique attractions in the greater Dubai region.

A man-made lake located in the otherworldly Al Qudra Oasis, tucked away amidst the Al Salam desert dunes, the lake is shaped – you guessed it – like a heart; two large, interconnected hearts, in fact.

A little cheesy but romantic nonetheless, the area has been built up so that love is all around, with plants and flowers shaped in hearts dotting the leisurely walkway.

The lakes are open 24 hours for both visiting or camping, all up, offering both a pleasant and lovely escape from the hustle and bustle of typical Dubai life, and with more than 175 species of birds (not to mention the ducks and land-based wildlife), it’s a hidden gem well-worthy of a visit.

32 – Meydan Racecourse

Home to some of the lushest greenery you’ll find in the region, the futuristic-looking Meydan Racecourse , with room for more than 60,000 eager spectators, is one of Dubai’s most popular local sporting meccas.

As well as being a world-class horse racing venue (most famous for hosting the $30-million Dubai World Cup every March), the racecourse also offers several other activities and amenities, including a golf course, tennis courts, restaurants and cafes (the Winner’s Circle restaurant is all class), and – perhaps most impressively – a luxury hotel.

Races run from November through to April most years (avoiding the blaring summer heat), however, the facilities in the area are open year-round, including the opulent and 5-star Meydan Hotel (widely considered one of the best hotels in Dubai, with rooms that offer spectacular views of either the cityscape or racetrack).

33 – Dubai Safari Park

Of all the animal-focused Dubai attractions, Dubai Safari Park is constantly held alongside the best of the best, certainly being one of the most immersive.

A world away from your typical caged zoo environment, Dubai SafariPark is more like an African game reserve, with a huge number of animals (more than 3,000 all up, encompassing more than 250 species) residing in open, natural habitats that are as close to their natural homes as possible.

There are five main animal zones at Dubai Safari Park – the African Village, the Asian Village, the Arabian Desert Safari, Explorer Village, and Adventure Valley – each home to a different array of animals; think lions and tigers and bears (oh my!), giraffes and rhinos, komodo dragons, moon bears, baboons, Nile crocodiles, elephants, orangutans, and flamboyant flamingos (the list really does go on).

Besides the chance to up close and personal with some incredible animals, there are plenty of fun-filled activities for families to enjoy together here too; from the kids farm to the multitude of live wildlife shows!

• Dubai Safari Park tickets

34 – Jebel Jais

A cruisey two-hour drive from Dubai, straddling the border of the UAE and Oman, Jebel Jais is the tallest mountain in the UAE, measuring in at a whopping 1,934 meters.

A popular spot for both locals and tourists alike, Jebel Jais has become somewhat of an adrenaline junkie’s playground over recent years, playing host to a number of exciting activities and attractions.

For starters, there’s the world’s longest zipline at almost 2800 meters (according to Guinness), which offers breathtaking views of the Hajar Mountains as you speed along at up to 150 kilometers an hour (93 mph); or the Jebel Jais Sky Tour, where the thrills are far more long-lived as you fly over the jagged mountain range on a dramatic five-kilometer-long, six-zip-line course.

• Jebel Jais flight tickets

35 – Etihad Museum

Full of insights into the local culture – both modern and traditional – the Etihad Museum is one of the newest Dubai attractions, having only opened in 2017. Located in Jumeirah, on the site next to the former Union House where the UAE was founded in 1971 (free tours of which, by the way, are available), this excellent museum dives into the history of the UAE through well designed and interactive exhibits that focus on a number of different sections of UAE history and culture.

As you walk in, you can’t miss the giant painting by Emirati artist Abdul Qader Al Rais that depicts the geography of the UAE; while other sections explore the Union’s founding fathers, showcase 3D documentaries about the founding years, and display artifacts like the signed union agreement itself and Sheikh Rashid’s passport.

Not too far away sits the Jumeirah Mosque and the Nikki Beach Resort & Spa Dubai, two very different yet very popular tourist destinations each within walking distance.

36 – Dubai Autodrome

Craving that need for speed? You’ll find it in spades (and then some) at the Dubai Autodrome – one of the most popular things to do in Dubai for petrol heads and car enthusiasts.

With a capacity for 15,000 spectators, the 5-kilometer Dubai Autodrome circuit has hosted some of the world’s most prestigious racing events over its 15+ year history; think Le Mans Series, MotoGP, the UAE Procar Championship, and a whole lot more.

Besides being a spectacular venue for watching live races (check their website to see what’s on during your stay), the Autodrome is also home to Kartdrome – one of the best go-karting tracks in town where both kids and adults can race around like maniacs in electric go-karts. The outdoor 1.2km International Circuit is perfect for speed demons, while the younger ones usually prefer the 620-meter-long indoor circuit.

For the ultimate thrill, however, sign up for a hot lap in one of the supercars! From driving a Ferrari GT to a legitimate Formula DXB, as well as BMWs, Audi TTs, McLarens, Renault Clios, and Prodrift-style single-seaters, high octane is just around the corner!

37 – Dubai Opera

A wonderful way to spend an evening; dressed to the nines and experience the local haut-classe culture, Dubai Opera is a stunningly designed, state-of-the-art performance venue that opened its doors in 2016.

With a capacity for 2000 people, Dubai Opera has already become one of the most popular things to do in the Downtown Dubai area (especially if you consider yourself more of a culture vulture), playing host to a number of excellent shows, operas, ballets, musicals, and more throughout the year.

Considered the shining pearl of The Opera District – it’s just one of many entertainment venues in the Dubai Mall area, and worth visiting even if only to admire the modern structure from the outside.

38 – Dubai Marina

If you’re looking to ditch the high-octane thrills of dune buggies, skyscrapers, and water parks for a more low-key way to spend the day, head over to Dubai Marina and stroll along the water’s edge, stopping for an ice cream or coffee in one of the many cafes that line the promenade.

Or, if you’re feeling active, rent a bicycle or inline skates and make your way down the palm tree-lined Marina Walk; on weekends especially, this is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to get some fresh air, and with no less than 305 outlets and 69 restaurants along the 7km stretch, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to eats and activities.

For those who want to stay afloat, there are plenty of options for renting a yacht or boat – from small dinghies to massive luxury yachts – and taking in the sights from the water.

And when night falls, the party doesn’t stop – the luxurious lifestyle transitions from shopping to partying, with a handle of waterfront bars and clubs acting as tourist magnets.

• boat tours in Dubai

Hot tip: Experience the luxury and the city skyline from the water with the best boat tours in Dubai , showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks like Burj Al Arab and the Dubai Marina.

39 – Yas Waterworld

Keen for a day trip?

Situated on Yas Island, Yas Waterworld is one of the best water parks in Abu Dhabi – about an hour’s drive from Dubai – and promises a great day out for anyone traveling with young kids (or any theme park lover, in all honesty).

With over 40 diverse rides, slippery slides, and entertaining attractions, there’s something for everyone here – from the youngest tots who can splash around in the dedicated children’s area (Tot’s Playground) to older kids and adults who can feel the adreniline on seriously thrilling waterslides like the Bandit Bomber, Jebel Drop, and Slithers Slides.

A beloved experience for those looking to try something new, Yas also boasts the world’s first pearl-diving experience, where brave treasure hunters can plunge to the depths of an underwater tank to uncover oysters and pearls!

• Yas Waterworld tickets

40 – Museum of Illusions Dubai

Sure to leave you confused and impressed simultaneously, the Museum of Illusions Dubai is an interactive museum like no other, with over 80 different optical illusions and mind-boggling displays that’ll have you scratching your head in disbelief.

From anti-gravity rooms to vortex tunnels, levitation tools, and holograms, the science behind each exhibit is just as fascinating as the visual displays – making this one of the prime spots to visit in Dubai if you’re looking for something a little different (and educational) to do with the family.

Located in the Al Seef area near the Dubai Creek, it’s the perfect hour-long activity before a pleasant wander down the banks and a spot of lunch.

• Dubai Museum of Illusions tickets

41 – VR Park

Step into a futuristic world of digitally-created realities at VR Park, the first of its kind in the Middle East.

With over 30 different virtual reality experiences to choose from – including roller coasters, simulated skydives from the Burj Khalifa where you step into the shoes of a window-washer, spaceship blastoffs, and offroading on the UAE’s sand dunes – it’s one of the best tourist attractions in Dubai to let your imagination run wild and explore new worlds without leaving the city limits.

Plus, with a soft play area, merry-go-rounds, and arcade games targeted at the youngsters, as well as a cafe for the parents, there’s something for the whole family at this centrally-located Dubai Mall haunt.

• VR Park Dubai tickets

42 – BollywoodParks™ Dubai

One of the Dubai attractions tailor-made for movie buffs and Bollywood fans, Bollywood Parks™ Dubai is a first-of-its-kind theme park that celebrates India’s rich film heritage.

From live, glamorous stage shows and interactive rides to street food stalls and movie-themed attractions, the park brings the vibrant colors, sounds, and smells of India to life – giving visitors a taste of the country’s rich culture and thriving movie industry.

With five different zones (Bollywood Boulevard, Bollywood Film Studios, Royal Plaza, Rustic Ravine, and Mumbai Chowk) dedicated to some of Bollywood’s most iconic films and blockbusters – including Sholay, Dabangg, Lagaan, Mughal-E-Azam, and more – this one-of-a-kind amusement park delivers a bounty of cinematic entertainment.

• Bollywood Parks Dubai tickets

43 – Warner Bros World

Found over in Abu Dhabi – the UAE’s capital city about an hour away from Dubai’s main haunts – Warner Bros World is a must-visit for anyone traveling with young kids (or any diehard DC Comics fans, in all honesty).

With over six different themed areas – including Cartoon Junction, Gotham City, Bedrock, Dynamite Gulch, Metropolis, and Warner Bros Plaza – each adorned with larger-than-life statues of iconic characters like Bugs Bunny and Superman, the park is straight out of a comic book come to life.

Kickstart your day with a wakeup call on adrenaline-pumping rides like Batman: Knight Flight (for a wild flight over Gotham) and Justice League: Warworld Attacks (where you’ll join Wonder Woman and the gang in an epic enemy battle), and then take it easy on the more gentle attractions perfect for little ones like Scooby-Doo’s Jeeps Adventure and Tom & Jerry: Swiss Cheese Slides.

Scattered all over the park are whimsically themed eateries, costumed characters, and marvelous and meticulous details and decorations, all combining into a brilliant day out for the whole family.

Hot tip: for the best bang for your buck (and to see the most of the neighboring city) consider booking a tour that includes transport as well as entry to Ferrari World and stops at iconic landmarks like Emirates Place and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque .

• Warner Bros World tickets

And, while you’re at it, make sure to check out our comprehensive list of exciting things to do in Abu Dhabi !

44 – Al Fahidi Historical District

Head to Al Fahidi Historical District for a step back in time – this is where old Dubai comes to life.

Wander the narrow, meandering streets and alleyways and you’ll find traditional Arabian houses, art galleries, quaint cafes, and boutique hotels housed in beautifully restored heritage buildings.

The area is also home to the Dubai Museum, which offers an insightful look into the city’s past with its exhibits on archaeology, Emirati culture and traditions, the evolution of the city in recent decades, and more.

Spend an afternoon exploring this atmospheric district along the Dubai Creek; pop into one of the oldest markets in the region, the Textile Souq; check out the Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest existing building in the city; browse the charming Arabian Tea House for a deserved refreshment, and you’ll quickly see why this area is considered one of the best tourist attractions in Dubai.

45 – Mall of the Emirates

Shopaholics, take note!

Mall of the Emirates is one of Dubai’s most popular shopping malls, and it’s easy to see why.

With over 630 stores to suit luxury fashionistas, bargain hunters, and everyone in between; as well as 100 restaurants, you’ll be maxing out your credit card in no time.

Whether you’re looking to indulge in some retail therapy at high-end stores like Harvey Nichols and Bloomingdale’s, pick up souvenirs at one of the many traditional Arabian shops selling spices, textiles, and handicrafts, or simply take a break from sightseeing with a spot of lunch or coffee – Mall of the Emirates has got you covered.

But wait, there’s more. Far from your typical shopping center, this sprawling indoor mall also houses an indoor ski slope, a theatre complex, bowling alley, VR center, and kid-friendly Magic Planet.

46 – Jumeirah Mosque

A stone’s throw from both the Etihad Museum and La Mer Beach – sandwiched in between the two, about 10 minutes walk in either direction – is one of the most beautiful mosques in Dubai: the Jumeirah Mosque .

Fitting for a postcard, this stunning building is made entirely from white stone in the style of medieval Fatimid design, and can accommodate over 1000 worshippers in its peaceful and beautiful prayer room.

Despite the religious significance, the mosque is open to people from all religions and walks of life, with daily guided visits for all at 10am and 2pm (except Fridays). Besides the chance to learn about the architecture and spirituality of the building from the friendly guide, you’ll also be treated to some light Emirati refreshments.

Keep in mind: registration for the tours opens 30 minutes beforehand.

47 – Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Looking for attractions in Dubai that will please both the little kids and the kids at heart? Then look no further: Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is the perfect place for a day of family fun.

Situated just a 10-minute drive inland from Downtown Dubai, this urban and protected nature reserve is home to an abundance of bird species, as well as all kinds of crustaceans, mammals, and fish (especially during the migratory months).

There are plenty of activities on offer here: go birdwatched from strategic locations; take a slow and peaceful walk through the relaxing gardens and explore the scenic trails; enjoy a picnic lunch under the shady trees; or join a guided tour for an expert view on the local wildlife!

48 – Dubai Butterfly Garden

A colorful oasis right next to the Miracle Garden (see #3; where more than 150 million flowers are in full bloom), the vibrant and wonderful Dubai Butterfly Garden is a must-see for all ages.

As the world’s largest indoor butterfly park, this paradise is made up of a temperature-controlled greenhouse filled with over 15,000 butterflies from over 50 different species, spread elegantly across 10 custom-designed domes.

Wander through the lush gardens and take in the beauty of these winged creatures as they flit about; learn about their life cycles at the informative exhibit, or simply relax on one of the many benches and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

49 – Wild Wadi Water Park

One of the most popular water parks in Dubai, it features a huge wave pool, numerous slides and flumes, as well as two artificial surfing machines (Wipeout and Riptide); not to mention an entire area dedicated to little ones, with smaller slides and a heated pool.

Thrillseekers, don’t miss the Master Blaster, a dramatic ride that takes you up to 15 meters above ground level the; take a spin on Thunder Rapids, and tackle the ominous Tunnel of Doom! And if you’re really feeling brave, head to the 32-meter-tall Jumeirah Sceirah slide; overlooking the entire park from above, it’ll have you cannoning down at a top speed of 80 km/h!

Whether you’re looking to cool off or just have some fun in the sun, Wild Wadi is definitely worth a visit!

• Wild Wadi Water Park tickets

50 – Jumeirah Beach Residence

An undeniable symbol of luxury, Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai, offering the perfect blend of relaxing waterfront, high-energy nightlife, and endless shopping.

This iconic development stretches for almost two kilometers along the coastline of Dubai Marina, and is home to a number of world-class hotels (you’ll find no less than 40 towers spread across the shoreline), restaurants, cafes, malls, and more.

Whether you’re looking to sunbathe on one of the many beaches, take a dip in the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, stroll along The Walk (a promenade lined with shops and eateries), take a dip at the cosmopolitan JBR Beach, or enjoy some retail therapy at one of the many stores – as you can tell, despite coming across as residential because of its moniker, JBR has a little splash of something for every kind of traveler.

Hot tip: if you’re after something indulgent and romantic,  The MAINE Oyster Bar & Grill is a top choice for many a date night!

Final thoughts:

So there you have it – 50 of the best tourist attractions in Dubai! We hope this list has inspired you to start planning your next trip to this amazing city.

Recently, the government put forward an ambitious tourism strategy to attract 25 million annual visitors by 2025 – and thanks to all of the Dubai attractions we’ve mentioned throughout this article, it’s closing in on the finish line quicker than expected!

Whether you’re looking for luxury and relaxation, excitement and adventure, or a little bit from column A and a little bit from column B, you will find plenty of fun things to do in Dubai . So what are you waiting for? Start packing your bags today!

Have you been to Dubai? What was your favorite attraction? Let us know in the comments below!

Happy travels!

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• 60 Tourist Places In Dubai: Do Not Come Back Without Visiting These Marvels!

23 Mar 2023

With thousands of hundreds of tourists visiting this Arab city every year, the entertainment city of the world, Dubai, needs no introduction! Ultra-modern architecture, exotic and lively nightlife, magnificent bird-eye views of the beautiful skylines, Dubai is synonymous with grandeur and a pompous lifestyle. This means that you would be spoiled by choices of tourist places in Dubai , on your upcoming Dubai vacation.  Dubai in UAE is popular for its nightlife scenes, beaches, high-rise buildings, grand shopping malls, luxury hotels, unique museums and zoos, and a lot more. We present to you some of the most happening Dubai tourist places that every traveler must explore. Dubai is an example of what hard work and dedication can do to a city. It has come a long way from being a port to one of the most popular tourist spots in the world. You can witness the numerous places to visit in Dubai on your next vacation. Keep reading and get to know about the amazing Dubai attractions along with photos. 

60 Best Tourists Places to visit In Dubai

From Burj Khalifa to Ferrari World, Dubai is home to various spectacular attractions that will make your trip memorable. Here is an intricate list of the most famous places to visit in Duba i that you should not miss out on your trip. Keep scrolling down and read along to know more!

• Burj Khalifa – Architectural Marvel
• Burj Al Arab – Imposing Structure
• Jumeirah Beach – Pristine Waters
• Mall Of The Emirates – A Beauty To Behold
• Dubai Mall – Opulence Exemplified
• Sheikh Saeed Al – Magnificence Overloaded
• Wild Wadi – Take A Dive
• Dubai Creek – Beauty At Its Peak  
• Deira Souks – Gold Everywhere
• Dubai Aquarium – World’s Largest Suspended Aquarium
• Global Village – Enjoy Performances From Global Artists
• Ibn Battuta Mall – Give In To Your Vanity
• Desert Safari – Hop On A Camel
• Dubai Marina – Image Of Affluence  
• Ferrari World – Indulge In Fun
• Dubai Dolphinarium – Watch Them Dance
• Ski Dubai – Put Your Talent To Good Use
• IMG Worlds of Adventure – Jump On The Carousel
• Dubai Miracle Garden – Biggest Flower Garden
• The Atlantis Palm Hotel – Stay Like A King
• The Palm Islands – Home To Luxurious Resorts
• Yas Island Waterpark – Beat The Heat
• Dubai Fountain – Watch The Dance
• Bollywood Parks Dubai – Watch Live Performances
• Dubai Underwater Zoo – Check Out Sharks
• Al Bastakia – Beautiful Ruins
• Hatta Heritage Village – Grand Old Town
• Dubai Polo And Equestrian Club – A Rejuvenating Retreat
• Saeed Al Maktoum House – Rich History
• Dubai Gold Souks – Shop Until You Drop
• Guru Nanak Darbar – Seek Blessings
• World Island – Check Out The Coast
• Kite Beach – Compete With Your Pals
• Hatta Rock Pools – Mind Blowing Canyons
• Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve – Littered With Forts
• Iceland Water Park – Take A Dip
• Dubai Opera – Watch A Cultural Show
• Etihad Museum – Go Back In Time
• Bur Dubai Village – Ancient Architecture
• Children’s City – Fun-Filled Break
• Grand Mosque – Historic Beauty
• Deira Clocktower – Step Back In Time
• Safa Park – Run Wild
• Hajar Foothills – Peaceful Spot
• The Lost Chambers Aquarium – Check Out Marine Animals
• Alserkal Avenue – Contemporary Gallery
• Emirates Towers – Party Hub
• Desert Camping – Camp Under The Stars
• Dolphin Bay – Feed The Mammals
• Dubai Spice Souk – Buy Spices
• Al Nassma – Eat Camel Milk Chocolates
• Dubai Coffee Museum – Luscious Coffee
• Desert Gate – Take A Ride
• Jumeirah Mosque – For A Spiritual Experience
• Dreamland Aqua Park – A Fun-Filled Place
• Dubai Frame – A Window To The Past And Future
• Kidzania Dubai  – Fun Inspired Learning
• Motiongate – Theme Park For Hollywood Buffs
• iFly Dubai – Skydiving Simplified
• Cayan Tower – A 75 Story Skyscraper

1. Burj Khalifa – Architectural Marvel

Do we need to say more? Burj Khalifa , the landmark building is on every traveler’s list of tourist places to visit in Dubai. The staggering bird-eye views from the 124th floor are an experience of a lifetime, with the desert covering one side and the turquoise blue ocean on the other. If you are in Dubai, you cannot miss visiting this place which finds its position on the list of tourist places in Dubai. Location:  1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: Daily 8:30 am-1 am Ideal for – Every single traveler! Official site

Must Read: 12 Dubai Museums That Let You Witness The Heritage & History Of The City

2. Burj Al Arab – Imposing Structure

Burj Al Arab tops the list of Dubai tourist places to visit. It is the fourth tallest hotel in the world and one of the most expensive 7-star hotels in the world which holds many feats. Burj Al Arab is beautifully lit up in the evening by choreographed lighting and offers a myriad experience of exploring the Dubai attractions. Ideal for – Photographers and the extremely affluent ones; until you can manage your savings for this one! Location:  Jumeirah St – Umm Suqeim 3 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  12 PM – 6 PM Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids Website

3. Jumeirah Beach – Pristine Waters

Jumeirah Beach is amongst the most popular places to visit in Dubai , ideal for all travelers. This beach is perfect for all beach bums and sunset lovers.   With a series of exotic hotels lined up throughout the road leading to the beach, world-class facilities and majestic sunset views at the beach make for a picture-perfect destination. Location:  Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  7:30 AM – 10 pm Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids

Suggested Read: Top 32 Romantic Restaurants In Dubai: Dine Like The Royals!

4. Mall Of The Emirates – A Beauty To Behold

Number four on our list of the best places to visit in Dubai is the Mall of the Emirates, equipped with almost everything under one roof. Be it the cuisine from every part of the world to the numerous brands to shop or the exclusive Dubai Ski, which consists of a fantastic ski set up and a penguin enclosure – all at a temperate of -4 degrees Celsius . Mall of Emirates has to be on your list of the top tourist attractions in Dubai.

Timings: Sat-Wed 10 am-1 am Thu-Fri 10 AM -2 AM Location: Sheikh Zayed Road Ideal For: Friends, family Website

5. Dubai Mall – Opulence Exemplified

Popularly known for its shopping extravaganza festivals– ‘ Dubai shopping festival ’ and ‘Dubai Summer Surprises’, this mall is for the shopaholics who are sure to be spoilt for choices. One of the best Dubai visiting places, Dubai Mall provides entry to Burj Khalifa and also houses the famed Dubai Aquarium and is loaded with an array of entertainment options – gaming zone, ice skating rink, and multiplex. You can buy souvenirs for the people back home from this mall or shop for jewelry, the choices are endless. Dubai Mall is without a doubt one of the best places to visit in Dubai. Location:  Hapur Rd, Block 1, P & T Colony, Raj Nagar, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002 Timings:  9 AM – 10:30 PM Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids

Suggested Read: 31 Places To Visit In Abu Dhabi For Those Who Want Everything From One City

6. Sheikh Saeed Al – Magnificence Overloaded

Sightseeing in Dubai is incomplete without a visit to the house of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum , which houses the Dubai Museum of Historical Photographs and Documents giving a glimpse of Dubai’s history. The house is the epitome of Arabic architecture , which has a splendid design, coupled with luxurious interiors. Location:  Hapur Rd, Block 1, P & T Colony, Raj Nagar, Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh 201002 Timings: Sat-Thu 8:30am-8:30pm, Fri 3-8:30pm Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids

7. Wild Wadi – Take A Dive

Wild Wadi is a popular amusement park located in front of Burj Khalifa, which is packed with some fun-filled rides of more than 25 types. This is a perfect place to enjoy with your family while getting to know about the Arabian folklore, on which Wild Wadi is based. Undoubtedly, this is one of the best places to visit in Dubai . Location:  Opp. Burj Al Arab – Jumeirah St – Umm SuqeimUmm Suqeim 3 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: November to February: 10am – 6pm March to May: 10am – 7pm June to August: 10am – 8pm September and October: 10am – 7pm Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids Official Website .

Suggested Read: A Spectacular Trip To Dubai In January That Is All You Need!

8. Dubai Creek – Beauty At Its Peak

Dubai Creek tops the list of places to visit in Dubai for couples. The creek is natural seawater, which cuts through the center of the city. Tourists could take a boat or abra to view the port on the other side. The picturesque view of the town , enriched by the history of Dubai makes it one of the most romantic tourist places in Dubai.

Location:  Dubai Creek , Dubai, United Arab Emirates Timings:  8 AM – 11 PM Ideal for: Family, Couples, Friends

9. Deira Souks – Gold Everywhere

Attention Shopaholics! Your paradise for unlimited shopping is right at the most popular tourist place in Dubai – Deira Souks. Get the essence of Dubai’s business culture. There is a market for all types of spices to souks for just gold or the textile souks – shop to your heart’s content from the wide array the city has to offer. Timings: Daily: 7 am-12 pm and 17 pm -19 pm Fri 17 pm – 19 pm Location:  Deira, near the junction of Baniyas Road and Old Baladiya Road Ideal for: Women

Suggested Read: Heads Up Shopaholics – The 25 Best Shopping Places In Dubai Are Calling You

10. Dubai Aquarium – World’s Largest Suspended Aquarium

Have you been to an underwater zoo? Yes, one exists! Visit Dubai Aquarium, is one of the popular tourist attractions in Dubai which has varied activities, including an underwater zoo , glass-bottom boat tours , cage snorkeling, and shark diving . It’s a unique mix of experience, so be sure to have some fun at this most popular Dubai tourist places !

Location: Dubai Mall, Sheikh Zayed Road Timing: Mon-Fri 10am-10pm, Sat-Sun 10AM- Midnight Ideal For: Kids, family Official Website

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11. Global Village – Enjoy Performances From Global Artists

The global village is a destination that provides a wonderful international shopping experience as well as entertains you with some of the best performances from artists all over the world . The Global village also has food joints, serving delicious cuisine making it one of the most popular Dubai attractions.

Location:  Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road E 311 road Dubai. Timings:  9:30 AM – 7 PM Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids Official site

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12. Ibn Battuta Mall – Give In To Your Vanity

Ibn Battuta Mall is the largest theme based mall in the world , with over 270 shops, 50 restaurants, and 4500 sqft parking spaces! The architecture and the splendor of the Mall are awe-inspiring. Visit these popular Dubai tourist places to witness flamboyance and the Dubai culture of indulging in luxury.

Timings: 10:00 am – 12:00 am Location:  Sheikh Zayed Rd – Jebel Ali Village – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Ideal for: Family, Couples, Friends Official site

13. Desert Safari – Hop On A Camel

Image Credit: Xisdom for Pixabay While the number of places around to visit is abundant, the number of activities around in Dubai is just as riveting. The desert safari in Dubai is one of the best you could ever experience around. Exploring the deserts meshing into the abyss is definitely something you just can’t miss out on. This is one of those versatile activities that one can indulge in not just with their friends but also with the entire family without any constraints.

Location:  10th St – Al Quoz Industrial Area 4 – Dubai No 4 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: 3:30 PM till 9:30 PM every day Ideal for: Friends, Family, Solo

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14. Dubai Marina – Image Of Affluence

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Next on the list of the must-visit places when in Dubai includes the Dubai Marina. This place has become one of the most exotic places to visit. The place has multiplied its immense popularity and growth mainly because of the fact that it is considered one of the biggest man-made marina around in the world. Not just the Marina itself, there is an abundance of activities one can indulge in, ranging from the eateries to the various shopping plazas.

Location:  Residential district in Dubai, United Arab Emirates Timings:  10 AM – 11 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family, Solo

15. Ferrari World – Indulge In Fun

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The Ferrari World is not your display of cars, rather, the complete opposite of it. Ferrari World is the biggest amusement park in the entirety of Abu Dhabi. It was founded back in 2010 and has since then attracted quite a large sum of tourists over the course of years. The place is constructed in a way to suit and cater to everyone’s needs, right from someone aged 8 till 80. Apart from riding a Ferrari, you can also indulge in shopping and stop by the quaint restaurants to gorge down some local favorites. Without a doubt, it is one of the best places to see in Dubai. 

Location: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi Timing: 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM Ideal for: Family, Kids

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16. Dubai Dolphinarium – Watch Them Dance

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The Dubai Dolphinarium, one of the most popular Dubai attractions, is located near the Creekside Park in Dubai and is considered as one of the best amusement venues including fish farms and even coral reef aquariums. This specific sightseeing spot is more than just a mandatory spot, it has been constructed with an aim to educate the visitors about the dire need regarding the conservation of dolphins around the world. Not just the dolphins, the same also does emphasize the need for protection of the endangered marine life.

Location: Riyadh Street, Inside the Creek Park Gate 1 – Dubai Dolphinarium Building – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  10 AM – 7:30 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family, Kids

17. Ski Dubai – Put Your Talent To Good Use

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Next, on the list of amazing places and things to do in Dubai include visiting Ski Dubai. Spread across a total area of 22,500 sq mt, Ski Dubai is one of the best indoor resorts around in Dubai. The resort is specifically dedicated to snow and skiing in Dubai . The entire place is covered in snow which gives you the feeling of enjoying the activities around in the Alps rather than Dubai. Make sure to visit the Snow Park too while you are there and for the complete feeling, sip on some hot chocolate from around the shacks available around. In Ski Dubai account for one of the best animals you will witness around in the place. The visitors are allowed to see the penguins from the barrier of glass and the show they put on is amazing on its own. The private holding area is off-limits but just viewing them is just as good of an experience while there. Apart from that, you can also swim in the ten-foot deep pool with the penguins and have the time of your life. Kids especially enjoy playing around with the penguins a lot.

Location:  Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al BarshaAl Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  10 AM – 10 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family

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18. IMG Worlds of Adventure – Jump On The Carousel

Now that we are on a roll of mentioning all the popular amusement parks and activity areas around Dubai, it is time we discuss the IMG Worlds of Adventure. It is a very popular indoor amusement park that hosts four different adventure spots around in just one single spot. That is what exactly makes it one of the best around in the area. They host some of the most popular global brands like of Cartoon Network and even Marvel. Apart from that, you can delve into the IMG Boulevard along with the lost valley dinosaur adventure zone with amazing original concepts.

Location:  E311 – Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  12 – 9 PM Ideal for: Family, Kids

19. Dubai Miracle Garden – Biggest Flower Garden

If you love flowers and nature in general, you are definitely going to be loving the Dubai Miracle Garden without a shadow of a doubt. If your itinerary doesn’t include this specific place while you are in Dubai, it is time to make a change to that. The lush greenery with the vibrant hues from the flowers is more than enough to leave you awestruck and your heart full. It is the biggest natural flower garden around in Dubai and the best part of this is the fact that the same is grown around in a desert. The place includes distinctive models of some of the most popular establishments around in Dubai. The models change shape and even have suitable lighting to make them even more beautiful.

Location:    Al Barsha South 3 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: 09:00 AM till 09:00 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family

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20. The Atlantis Palm Hotel – Stay Like A King

It is not surprising at all when people tend to correlate Dubai with luxury. The wide range of multiple star hotels and luxurious resorts do give it that reputation. The Atlantis Palm Hotel is every person’s living dream if they can afford the expenses that do come along with it. The majestic 7-star hotel is everything luxury defines as and probably more. Often also known as the Royal Towers, the fireworks around in the hotel is something that leaves the tourists and the visitors in an awe. The hotel is also believed to host some of the most popular A-list Hollywood celebrities. This place finds its place in the list of Dubai tourist places to visit.

Location:  Crescent Rd – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: NA Ideal for: Family, Friends

21. The Palm Islands – Home To Luxurious Resorts

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If you have heard of artificial islands but never been to one, you definitely need to visit The Palm Islands . The Palm Islands is the collective of two different artificial islands situated mainly in Palm Jumeirah and Palm Jebel Ali. While the island in Palm Jumeirah is complete and can be visited by the tourists, the one in Jebel Ali is still not completed yet which is why you can’t visit that yet. The islands are named so because of the shape it takes. The majority of the tourists and even the ex-pats suggest viewing the islands from either in the air or from any of the popular skyscrapers around in Dubai like that of the Observation Deck in the Burj Khalifa.

Location: Coast of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Timings:  open 24 hours Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids

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22. Yas Island Waterpark – Beat The Heat

The Yas Island Waterpark has been around in the construction and developmental phase since 2006. Just as the name suggests, this is one of the best themed water park in Dubai which enthralls the kids and the adults alike. There are over 40 different water slides, several rides, and a plethora of attractions around in the water park for you to try out. The water park is actually one of the best places to see in Dubai. I f you want your adrenaline peeking through the heights, try the various water rides and dunk yourself in the water pools.

Location: Abu Dhabi Timings: 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids

23. Dubai Fountain – Watch The Dance

Next on the list of tourist places in Dubai is the Dubai Fountain. It is one of the most unusual places to visit in Dubai . The Dubai Fountain is the tallest and the most well-choreographed fountain in the whole entire world. The fountain reaches over to a height of 900 feet which is definitely something that makes it one of the best things to witness around in the place. It stands tall in the middle of Burj Lake and has been attracting a flock of a tourist attraction over the course of years. The combination of the nightlife with the rhythmic dance of the water in the fountain adds to the marvelous experience altogether. The work and architecture put into this single piece of the fountain will leave you shocked and gobsmacked. The entire structure contains around 6600 super lights along with twenty-five color projectors which make up for the overall experience. The songs played range from classical to contemporary.

Location:  Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  6 Pm – 11 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family

Suggested Read: 12 Dubai Travel Tips To Help You Make The Most Of Your Perfect Holiday

24. Bollywood Parks Dubai – Watch Live Performances

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If Bollywood is something you live for, visiting Bollywood Parks in Dubai is an absolute must for you. The place is known to have everything that you would needs when it comes to the whole Bollywood scene, from rides to restaurants. It is truly one of the best Dubai tourist attractions . You can also enjoy live performances around the place and even depict some of the most entertaining activities around. The entire place is spread over an area of 1.7 million sq. ft. This Bollywood theme park in Dubai is a definite must-visit when it does come to reeling around in the realms of amazing entertainment from Bollywood.

Location:    Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  12 PM – 9 PM Ideal for: Family, Friends

25. Dubai Underwater Zoo – Check Out Sharks

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Next on the list of amazing places to visit around in Dubai is the Dubai Underwater zoo. It is located on the ground and level two of the famous Dubai Mall and does make up for one of the most sought-after tourist destinations around the world. It is the world’s largest suspended aquarium which holds around 10 million liters of water. The aquarium is home to over 140 species of aquatic animals and marine life which does include over 300 species of just sharks and stingrays. It also contains the infamous Sand Tiger Shark. The overall dimensions of the aquarium are around 51 meters in length and around 20 meters in width.

Location: The Dubai Mall, UAE Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:15 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family, Kids

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26. Al Bastakia – Beautiful Ruins

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If culture and history is something you want to explore while in Dubai, visiting the Al Bastakia is an amazing choice to delve into. This ruin-worthy town is every cultural lover’s delight and if you are one of them, make sure to never miss out on visiting this place while you are there. The sandy lanes around the place make your experience around even adventurous and worth remembering. The modern white mosque around the place is a must-visit and if architecture and design intrigue you, it is definitely a must for you to stand and admire the designs made with gypsum, coral, and limestone. The carved wooden doors further add to the majestic feel of the place.

Location:  Bur Dubai Hamriya – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  7 AM – 8 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family, Kids

27. Hatta Heritage Village – Grand Old Town

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The next on the list of mystic destinations around in Dubai is the Hatta Heritage Village. If you wish to experience the traditional life around in Dubai, visiting the Hatta Heritage Village in the Al Hajar Mountains is an absolute must. The place is the classic depiction of what the overall grandeur of old town and locals reflect on the place. The amazing houses around the village were made from the old age stones and hold great significance in the raging popularity of the place around. There is a total of just 17 houses around the place and even a gigantic fortress which in itself is a sight to behold.

Location:    Sufayri – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  7:30 AM – 8:30 PM Ideal for: Family, Friends

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28. Dubai Polo And Equestrian Club – A Rejuvenating Retreat

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The Polo and Equestrian Club in Dubai is definitely one if you wish to revel in some of the rich people’s sports. This is basically the best to visit if you have the resources and the leisure time in your hand to spare. The place does allow you to have a very relaxed and laid back time with no stress whatsoever. Not only is the environment chill and stressful free and rejuvenating, but it also does provide some of the best experiences when it comes to fitness with their plethora of outdoor activities. Some of the most popular activities include horseback riding, swimming, spa, and even enjoy the delectable dishes from the top chefs.

Location:  Al Qudra Road, Next to Dubai Studio City, 7477 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  6 AM – 12 AM Ideal for: Friends, Family

29. Saeed Al Maktoum House – Rich History

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Still looking for the best places to go in Dubai ? The Saeed Al Maktoum House is located around in Al Shindagha and holds importance in the representation in the history of Dubai .

It was the former residential palace of one of the most prestigious rulers of the Emirates, Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum. Owing to the rich historical significance of this place, this is regarded as one of the most popular places to visit around in Dubai. Currently, the building has been converted into a museum and showcases a wide range of artifacts aligned with the Arab dynasty.

Location: Al Fahidi – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  8 AM – 8:30 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family, Kids

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30. Dubai Gold Souks – Shop Until You Drop

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The Dubai Gold Souks do make up for one of the major cultures and traditions around Dubai. It is believed to showcase the cultures of the Middle East and provides the feeling of luxury to the tourists as they demand it. Located around in Deira, they do make up for one of the best souk markets around in Dubai when it comes to sourcing precious gold. Simply window shopping and witnessing the pieces of gold on display around in the shops is enough to leave your mouth wide open. It is one of the best tourist places in Dubai. 

Location:  DeiraAl Ras – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  9:30 AM – 9:30 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family, Solo

31. Guru Nanak Darbar – Seek Blessings

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If you have been seeking some peace and tranquility for yourself, visiting the Guru Nanak Darbar is an absolute must-visit while in Dubai. It is the first constructed one in the area and is often an amazing place of worship for Sikh devotees. It also has a dedicated floor that caters to the community feasts which are conducted every single day and serves over 5000 people. It is located in Jabesh Ali and is considered a must-visit when you want to get rid of the impending stress and pressure of life. Location: 3806 Sheikh Zayed Rd – Jebel Ali Village – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: 04:30 AM till 09:30 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family

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32. World Island – Check Out The Coast

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The World Island, which was developed by renowned developers Nakheel is one of the most popular sightseeing spots Dubai. It is spread around the complete coast of Dubai and looks like an amazing rendition of the world map on the ocean. The best part is the fact that these specific islands are on sale or even rent depending on the wish of the customers. The prices of these places are beyond anyone’s realm of imagination, so that is definitely something out of topic.

Location:  United Arab Emirates Timings:  10 AM – 7 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family

33. Kite Beach – Compete With Your Pals

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Kite Beach is not just the famous Dubai tourist attraction but locals love this place just as much. It is situated in the Al Manara Road junction and the name of the beach is apt for the kind of activities you can indulge in around the place. The wide range of water sports along with kitesurfing make up for the amazing activities that the majority of the tourists indulge in the entire year around. The pristine white texture of the soft sand is definitely something that will satisfy your heart and soul. The Burj-Al-Arab can be seen clearly from there.

Location:  main street of Jumeirah, Dubai Timings:  10 AM – 7 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family, Kids

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34. Hatta Rock Pools – Mind-Blowing Canyons

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The Hatta Rock Pools do make up for yet another one of the amazing sightseeing spots around Dubai. It is considered one of the best visiting spots around during the weekends. The entire area is studded along with spring-fed pools and narrow canyon passages which is what makes up for the amazing beauty of the place. It is located nearby to the Hatta heritage village and if you are short on time, visit both of the places together to get everything sorted out. The rocky mountain passages along with the landscapes around make up for the overall beauty of the place around.

Location: Half an hour drive away from the ancient village of Hatta Timing: NA Ideal for: Friends, Family

35. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve – Littered With Forts

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The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is yet another one of the ideal must-visit places in Dubai. It does reflect quite a lot of historical importance and is one of the oldest buildings around Dubai. It was initiated back in 1971 and has since then reflected significant importance in the history of Dubai. The place is littered with a wide range of forts and galleries which is what showcases the rich culture of the land. The Al Faidi fort in the museum is what holds the maximum importance. There is also a room in the place which is just filled with old maps. You can also witness the plethora of archaeological findings from Al Quasis.

Location:  Sharjah – United Arab Emirates Timings:  Open 24/7 Ideal for: Friends, Family

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36. Iceland Water Park – Take A Dip

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Dubai is not just known for its oil reserves and gold but also for the amazing range of water parks it had. The Iceland Water Park is one such must-visit place around that not many tourists are aware of. It is considered one of the most beautiful water parks in the entirety of Dubai. Spread over a total area of 103,000 sq ft, this definitely makes up for one of the most notable sites to visit around in Dubai. It is themed as a Penguin homeland and has a capacity of 10,000 people at one go.

Location:  Jazeera Al Hamra – Ras al Khaimah – United Arab Emirates Timings:  10 AM – 6 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family, Kids

37. Dubai Opera – Watch A Cultural Show

Not many people are going to correlate Dubai with Opera music but if you wish to get a taste of it, the Dubai Opera is actually an amazing tourist place in Dubai . It is located around in downtown Dubai and does make up for being the Opera district of the place. The place is an amazing rendition of the culture that Dubai is known around the world for. The place hosts a wide range of musical shows and artful dance which makes it one of the best places around. It has also got an amazing 2000 situate multi arrange theatre.

Location:  Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  10 AM – 9 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family

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38. Etihad Museum – Go Back In Time

If you are a history buff, you are definitely going to be loving the Eithad Museum. The place is the perfect rendition of everything one needs to witness when it comes to the complete discourse that happened around in the United Arab Emirates. It is home to some of the rarest videos and personal items that nobody deemed would remain in existence. It does also showcase the various moment from the period from 1968 till 1974. If you wish to witness some of the highly accurate documentation and the archives from around the place, visiting the Etihad Museum is an absolute must.

Location:    1 Jumeirah St – Al Mina – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  10 AM – 5 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family

39. Bur Dubai Village – Ancient Architecture

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Next on the list of the amazing sites around Dubai is the Bur Dubai Village. It is also often regarded as the Dubai Heritage Village and is located close to the Dubai Creek. The architecture and designs made by the local artisans are more than enough to make you reel back in time. Yet another amazing thing to do around is to visit the local artisans and get small handmade souvenirs that you possibly can gift to your loved ones. This is one of the must-visit places in Dubai if you want to learn about Dubai.

Location: 7 32 St – Al Fahidi – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: 08:00 AM till 08:00 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family

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40. Children’s City – Fun-Filled Break

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The Children’s City is one of those spots that are adored by children of any age. The lego style buildings located in Creek Park and are packed with a plethora of interactive activities for the kids to try out. Every single one of the activity stations around is meant for children in the age group of 2-15 years of age. You can also indulge your kid in some of the educational workshops that do work around here and get your kids interested in interactive learning.

Location:  Umm Hurair 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirate Timings: Saturday till Thursday- 09:00 AM till 08:00 PM, Friday: 03:00 PM till 09:00 PM Ideal for: Family, Kids

41. Grand Mosque – Historic Beauty

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Visiting the Grand Mosque is an absolute must when it comes to popular places around Dubai. It is one of the world’s biggest mosque and keeps its visitors hooked with the amazing architectural pieces around in the place. It has 82 vaults and the 24-carat gold overlaid fixtures simply add to the grandeur of the place. It also has the world’s largest hand tied cover which further adds to the fervor of the place. Spend some quality time by the pool staring at the mosque and you won’t regret the experience you get there.

Location:   Emirate of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Timings: Saturday to Thursday: 09:00 AM to 10:00 PM, Friday: 04:30 PM to 10:00 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family

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42. Deira Clocktower – Step Back In Time

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The Deira Clocktower is one of the most popular landmarks around Dubai. If legends are to be believed, it is said that the clock tower was built back in the 1960s by the people who resided there. Located in the eastern part of Dubai, this makes up for one of the most significant tourist spots in Dubai.

Location: Al Maktoum Rd – Deira – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: Open 24 hours Ideal for: Friends, Family

43. Safa Park – Run Wild

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Last but not least on the list of places to visit around in Dubai is Safa Park. This is known not just for its elegance and beauty but also for the kind of historical significance it beholds. The park is a 64-hectare park which was priorly an accommodation center for illegal immigrants from South Asia. Following the years, the place has been renovated quite a lot of times and has since then become quite a popular tourist destination around Dubai.

Location: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Safa – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: 08:00 AM till 10:00 PM Ideal for: Friends, Family

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44. Hajar Foothills – Peaceful Spot

Image Credit: Andries Oudshoorn for Wikimedia Commons

Yet another amazing spot around in Dubai that accounts as a must-visit place is the Hajar Foothills. Owing to the fact that around 80% of Dubai is covered in sand, having desert camping is an absolute must. Hajar Foothills is one such place that do offer a similar experience where you can camp out on the beach itself. Make sure that you don’t go around dirtying the place and have the mere decency to keep the beach clean and carry a trash bag separately and use it to discard all the unwanted items that you don’t require throughout the camping experience. Carry the camping essentials too.

Location: Sharjah, Hajar Mountains, UAE Timings: Anytime Ideal For: Family, Friends

45. The Lost Chambers Aquarium – Check Out Marine Animals

Image Credit: AwOiSoAk KaOsIoWa for Wikimedia Commons

If Atlantis is something that entices you, you are definitely going to love The Lost Chambers Aquarium. The entire place is littered with a number of tunnels and holes which makes the experience even better for you to try out. The underwater and marine life showcased there is something amazing, one that enthralls you to the peak.

Location: Atlantis, The Palm – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM Ideal For: Family, Kids, Friends

Suggested Read: Dhow Cruise In Dubai: A Guide To The Best Way Of Touring The Bustling Emirate!

46. Alserkal Avenue – Contemporary Gallery

Alserkal Avenue is a hub of contemporary art galleries. The venue hosts a variety of exhibitions, talks, panel discussions, film screenings, Young Collector’s Auctions, and community-based festivals. The place is a mix of industrial business and creative spaces housing residencies for local and international artists as well.

Location: Street 8, Al Quoz 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Timings: 10:00 am to 07:00 pm (open on all days except on Fridays) Ideal For: Friends, Family

47. Emirates Towers – Party Hub

Image Credit: Jackardsiffant for Wikimedia Commons

In the modern age of business architecture, Emirates tower contains the Emirates Office Tower and the Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel . Jumeirah Towers is home to about thirteen nightclubs and dining ventures. The highlight of Emirates Tower is the atrium lobby which is one of the best places for business in Dubai. Emirates Tower should definitely be included in your itinerary for places to visit in Dubai in 7 days.

Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Timings:  9 AM – 10 PM Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids

Suggested Read: Make The Best Of Your Louvre Abu Dhabi Tour Through This Guide!

48. Desert Camping – Camp Under The Stars

Dubai holds some stunning locations for desert camping. Some of the activities that can be availed while camping is quad biking, camel riding, belly dancing, and dune bashing. The best time to enjoy camping is from the middle of November until early December. The best desert camping sites in Dubai is Hajar Foothills, Umm Al Quwain, Ras al Khaimah desert, Khasab and Al Sayah Plateau, Jebel Shams.

Locations: NA Timings:  12 PM – 6 PM Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids

49. Dolphin Bay – Feed The Mammals

Dolphin Bay is one of the most enchanting places to visit in Dubai. If you are one of those adventurous people you are going to have a great time here. Here you have the chance to learn all there is to know and swim with dolphins, regardless of the experience you have as a swimmer.

Location: Atlantis, The Palm, Crescent Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Timings: 9:30AM – 5:30PM Ideal For: Kids, Family

Suggested Read: 26 Free Things To Do In Dubai And Experience Over The Top Luxury Without Spending A Penny

50. Dubai Spice Souk – Buy Spices

Dubai Spice Souk offers a wide range of traditional spices, herbs, incense, and traditional medicinal products. It’s a heavenly place for a great selection of nuts, oils, and saffron as well. Wander among many different stalls and enjoy the different colours of spices. You can also discover many new tastes at Spice Souk.

Location: 26 34 St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: 10:00AM – 10:00PM (except Friday) Ideal For: Solo, Friends, Family

51. Al Nassma – Eat Camel Milk Chocolates

The UAE makes various things out of camel milk, such as cheese, butter, chocolates, cakes, and so on. Not all tourists know about chocolates made out of camel milk and you won’t find them sold at the malls anyway. They are more of a gourmet offering, available only at select places. The vanilla flavor is close to the actual flavor of the milk. Pick up some chocolates for your friends back home from any Al Nassma kiosk at the Dubai Mall, Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, or Souk Madinat Jumeirah.

Location:  Warehouse No. A1, Light Industrial Unit, Industrial Area – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  12 PM – 5 PM Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids

Suggested Read:  Parasailing And Paragliding In Dubai: A Guide To All The Famous Spots!

52. Dubai Coffee Museum – Luscious Coffee

While you’re at the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, make sure to visit the Dubai Coffee Museum. The coffee museum offers a relaxing atmosphere and plenty of tables and seats for you to sit down and enjoy your coffee. Plenty of coffee experts are available at the museum to explain the methods they use to make the coffee. Make sure to pick up some coffee and accessories such as latte art pens and milk jugs for your friends.

Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids Location:    Historic Neighborhood, Bastakiya, Villa 44 – Al Hisn St – Al Fahidi – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  9 AM – 5 PM

53. Desert Gate – Take A Ride

A qualified Emirati tour guide will take you to various places such as the old souks, Dubai Creek, Dubai’s first schools and more on the list of places to see in Dubai. Visitors to Dubai can enjoy an offbeat Desert Gate Tour which takes them to various parts of the city to understand Dubai’s growth. There’s also a tour of Heritage Village where you can learn about Dubai’s pearl-diving history.

Location:  oldest existing building in Dubai Timings:  12 PM – 6 PM Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids

54. Jumeirah Mosque – For A Spiritual Experience

Image Credit: Vicharam for Wikipedia

This mosque in the city of Dubai is known to be the only one which welcomes non-Muslim people. The architecture of this mosque is a treat to the eyes, as it is constructed using white stone. The building of this mosque looks stunning both day and night. At once, around 1200 people can accommodate in this mosque.

Location:  Jumeirah Beach Road – Jumeirah 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings: 10:00 am (onwards everyday except Fridays) Ideal for: Friends, Family, Kids

55. Dreamland Aqua Park – A Fun-Filled Place

This is one of the best places you can visit in Dubai if you are exploring the city with your family. The amusement park is known for its thrilling rides and is the best place for tourists as well as locals to beat the heat. Various rides like Twisting Dragons, Slide Five, Kamikaze, Mighty GoGround, and Pool Game will make your visit memorable.

Location:  Al Shebeakah – Umm Al Quawain – United Arab Emirates Timings: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm Ideal for: Family, Kids Official Site

Suggested Read:  Dubai In March: An Ultimate Guide To Have An Experience Like ‘Sheikhs’!

56. Dubai Frame- A Window To The Past And Future

Dubai Frame is the latest addition to the magnificent architectural marvels in Dubai, and is one of the many tourist places in Dubai . The height and breadth of this massive picture frame is 150m and 93m respectively, and it showcases the past and future of Dubai using the latest technologies, graphics, and animations. It also houses a skywalk that offers a view of old dubai, and the new advanced Dubai. This place provides a view of everything Dubai has to offer making it one of the most popular tourist places in Dubai .

Location: Zabeel Park Timings: 08.30 am to 08.30 pm Ideal for: Family, Kids

57. Kidzania Dubai  – Fun Inspired Learning

Kidzania is one of the most popular tourist places in Dubai , and is also heaven for kids. This place mixes learning with fun by making kids indulge in role-playing activities. The activities at this place are designed to help youngsters learn about adult life in an interactive way. Kids will love spending a day out at this one of most popular tourist places in Dubai , learning professional skills while having fun.

Location: The Dubai Mall, Financial Center Road Timings: 10.00 am to 10.00 pm (10.00 am to 11.00 pm from Thursday to Saturday) Ideal For:  Kids

Suggested Read:  Dubai Wildlife: Top 6 Places To Befriend The Exotic Wild In This Emirate!

58. Motiongate – Theme Park For Hollywood Buffs

Do you love Hollywood movies? If yes, then you must visit Motiongate, one of the most fun and popular tourist places in Dubai. Motiongate is a theme park that draws its inspiration from Hollywood. This place is filled with adrenaline surging rides, and you can also meet with Hollywood characters in the park and get pictures clicked with them. There are many rides in the park such as The Green Hornets High-Speed Chase, The Madagascar Mar Pursuit, and many that will ensure that you are on your toes all day long at this one of the many famous tourist places in Dubai .

Location: Dubai Parks and Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Road Timings: 02.00 pm to 10.00 pm (02.00 pm to 11.00 pm on Thursday and Friday) Ideal For:  Kids, Family, Friends

59. iFly Dubai – Skydiving Simplified

How does skydiving without having to jump from a plane in the middle of nowhere sounds? Sounds interesting, doesn’t it? Well, this is what Dubai offers you at iFly – one of the absolute must-visit tourist places in Dubai . Instead of jumping out of a plane, you will be jumping in an AC tunnel from a height of 4 meters. Not only will this experience leave you comfortable, but also ecstatic. ‘Skydiving’ at iFly – one of the most exciting tourist places in Dubai will leave you in a state of trance. Location: Play Nation Area, City Centre Mirdif Timings: 10.00 am to 11.00 pm (Friday and Saturday)   12.00 pm to 11.00 pm (Thursday)   12.00 pm to 10.00 pm (Sunday to Wednesday) Ideal For:  Kids, Family, Friends

Suggested Read: 11 Exquisite Coffee Shops In Dubai To Get Your Soul Caffeinated!

60. Cayan Tower – A 75 Story Skyscraper

Cayan Tower is a 75 story skyscraper in Dubai also known by the name of Infinity Tower. It is one of the best places to visit in Dubai and is the tallest twisted building in the world. These luxury apartment buildings only have limited facilities accessible to outsiders. Make sure to visit this marvelous Dubai attractions on your next trip.

Location:    1202, Al Barsha Heights, Teacom, Dubai Marina – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Timings:  8 AM – 6 PM Ideal for: Family, Friends, Kids

Further Read: 10 Reasons Why You Should Never Visit UAE

Dubai is a destination where even the most placid traveler would end up having fun! And with so many interesting and entertaining tourist places in to visit in this amazing city in United Arab Emirates (UAE), you can imagine how wonderful your vacation can turn out to be. So, plan a trip to Dubai right away. Make sure to visit these tourist places in Dubai with your loved ones! For our editorial codes of conduct and copyright disclaimer please click here .

Frequently Asked Questions About Tourist Places In Dubai

Which are the best places to visit in Dubai for free?

Dubai is loaded with lots of wondrous places to visit with your loved ones. While there are plenty of places to explore here do not forget to check out Fashion Avenue, Dubai Fountain, Dubai Beaches, and Manmade Waterfalls as these are some of the places in Dubai that you can visit for free.

Is Dubai expensive to visit?

Dubai can be cheap or expensive depending on the kind of accommodation and activities one chooses to experience here. Dubai tour packages for 5 days and 4 nights begin at INR 18,999.

Which is the cheapest month to fly to Dubai?

September is the cheapest month to fly to Dubai. So if you are short on budget then plan your trip to Dubai in the month of September with your travel buddies.

Which is the best time to visit Dubai?

November to March is the best time to visit Dubai. Enjoy the best of Dubai during this month as you explore the wondrous places at the best time.

Which are some famous attractions near Dubai?

Some of the famous attractions near Dubai, in Abu Dhabi, are 1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque 2. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.

How many days are enough for Dubai?

5-6 days are perfect to explore and tour the best of Dubai with your near and dear ones. You can also plan a trip for lesser or more days.

Is Dubai good for a honeymoon?

Yes, Dubai is a great destination for a honeymoon. It has some of the most luxurious resorts and experiences to offer to couples. Plan your honeymoon here to relish a romantic time with your bae.

What can I do in Dubai for the New Year?

If you are planning to spend New Year’s in Dubai, then this is what you can do there: 1. Enjoy the fireworks 2. Go on a New Year’s Eve cruise 3. Picnic at the beach on New Year’s Eve

What are the most popular things to do in Dubai with kids?

Some of the popular things to do in Dubai with kids are visiting Dubai Fountain, the Dubai Mall, Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark, and Dubai Aquarium.

What can you do at night in Dubai?

Some of the best things to experience at night in Dubai are 1. Fountain show at Dubai mall 2. Safari desert tour 3. Dubai garden glows 4. Enjoy a drink in the tallest restaurant.

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10 Top Attractions to Visit in Dubai 2022

Are you planning a trip to Dubai? Dubai is situated in the Arabian Peninsula and is well known for its tourism all over the world. All cities in the UAE are worth visiting, each having their own unique characteristics and beauty. In this article we’re focusing on the top attractions to visit in Dubai.

Dubai is definitely the most popular city in the UAE thanks to many things. Notably, its combination of ultra modern architecture and desert surroundings. It is a perfect place for tourists to visit, as we found out!

If you are visiting Dubai anytime soon, then you should find this article useful for planning your trip.

10 Attractions You Can’t Miss in Dubai

1. exploring old dubai and its heritage.

Dubai is divided into two areas, old Dubai and new Dubai (Downtown). While new Dubai may lack old heritage and culture, the old Dubai certainly doesn’t.

Make sure you visit the Dubai Creek and walk around the narrow lanes of Spice and Gold Souq. Explore the Souq and maybe even buy some authentic spices or good quality gold jewellery for a good price.

2. Dancing Fountain at the Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is one of the top attractions to visit in Dubai, located right in the centre of Downtown Dubai. It’s currently the largest mall in the world.

Dubai is a major shopping hub for tourists and has all brands under one roof. If you are a shopaholic, then Dubai Mall is definitely the place to be.

Other than the shopping experience though, you should visit the Dubai Mall to witness the dancing fountain on the ground floor. It starts in the evening and dances on until about 11 pm. It is probably one of the most beautiful things you will experience. You will be mesmerised. Check out the fountain show schedule here.

3. Top of the Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world is in Dubai and is definitely a treat for your eyes. One must definitely experience the view from the top.

You can purchase tickets online and choose a time slots that suits you, then head to the top and enjoy the view of Dubai.

4. Dubai Frame

Another recently built masterpiece in the Dubai is the Dubai Frame. The frame divides the city into Old and New. It allows you to go to the top and get the gorgeous views of the Old Dubai on one side and the New Dubai on the other.

5. Dubai Parks and Resorts

The Parks and Resorts are the new addition to the top attractions to visit in Dubai. There are various different parks inside and you can choose where you want to go depending on your likeness.

They have a Bollywood Park, Motion Gate, Legoland etc. This is a perfect attraction for families in Dubai, old or young.

6. Miracle Garden

This garden, as the name suggests, is very much similar to a miracle. All over the garden there are beautiful flowers. You will be in awe looking at the wonderful creations sculpted with the flowers. But this garden is only open from November to May. So make sure you check the website before going.

7. Burj Al Arab beach

There are a number of beaches in the UAE. But admiring the view of the Burj Al Arab and spending some time on the beach is definitely worth doing while you are in Dubai.

8. LaMer/ Jumeirah Beach Residence/ Dubai Marina

These are beautiful beachfront and marina coves that are the perfect combination of food, fun, and shopping. You will find a variety of restaurants and shopping outlets.

9. Desert Safari

Dubai is known as the desert city for obvious reasons. The desert is a top attraction to visit in Dubai. Make the most of the sandy landscape and experience desert activities such as dune bashing, camel rides, dirt bike riding and much more. It’s definitely worth a visit!

10. The Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Although this isn’t quite a top attraction in Dubai, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque is just over an hour away from Dubai. A visit to the beautiful and magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi is a must!

Visiting religious places should always be researched well before you go, make sure you dress appropriately. Have a look at these tips for visiting the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and also how to get there from Dubai.

It’s a truly beautiful building. There are many intricate details that have been beautifully portrayed in the architecture here. We were left in awe of this Mosque, and I would imagine you would be too!

Dubai Photography related articles – Want to capture these Dubai attractions in the best way? Learn what not to do by avoiding these common photography mistakes . If you are into editing and colour grading, you can enhance your snaps further by learning some colour grading techniques.

Some More Top Attractions to Visit:

• Ferrari World
• The Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Swimming with the sharks in the Atlantis

The 3 attractions above aren’t suited to everyone, but the 10 top attractions to visit in Dubai listed above are more than suited to everyone.

If you are ready to start planning your trip then check out our travel smart tips to make sure your trip goes smoothly.

Sherin's Corner

Sherin Jacob shares her love for travel and food through her travel blog and social medias. If you would like to read more of Sherin’s posts, check out her blog Sherin’s Corner.

Sherin Jacob shares her love for travel and food through her travel blog and social medias. If you would like to read more of Sherin’s posts, check out her blog Sherin’s Corner.  

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Dubai’s Ultimate Bucket List: Must-See Attractions and Hidden Gems

Dubai. Just the name evokes thoughts of futuristic architecture, endless deserts, and opulent luxury.

But, ever wondered why everyone seems to be packing their bags for this desert oasis? Why is this city such a magnetic draw for globetrotters?

• Dubai boasts a stunning juxtaposition of futuristic marvels and historic charm.
• From the world's tallest skyscraper to golden sand dunes, the experiences are unparalleled.
• Dive in for the ultimate guide to making the most of your Dubai trip .

Why Dubai Captivates Travelers Worldwide

According to the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing, a staggering 16.73 million tourists visited in 2019.

It's not just about the luxury shopping or the desert safaris, though they're incredible. It's the spirit of the city, a blend of the old and the new, that truly captivates.

The Towering Majesty: Burj Khalifa

Rising from the heart of Dubai like a silver needle piercing the sky, the Burj Khalifa stands as an emblem of human tenacity and vision.

Holding the record as the world's tallest structure, this colossus reaches a vertiginous height of 828 meters , dwarfing every other man-made edifice on Earth. Visitors venturing to its observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors are rewarded with panoramic vistas that are nothing short of ethereal.

On a clear day, the sweeping views extend far into the horizon, giving a bird's eye perspective of the ever-evolving metropolis below.

But the Burj Khalifa isn't just about height. It embodies the essence of Dubai – a city that dreams big and stops at nothing to realize those aspirations.

The tower's shimmering facade, resembling a lattice of diamonds at sunset, mirrors the audacity and glamour of the city it calls home.

For travelers, it's more than just a tick on their bucket list; it's an experience, a realization of what humanity can achieve when imagination meets ambition. Indeed, the Burj Khalifa is not merely a building; it's a testament to the limitless possibilities of the human spirit.

The Desert's Song: A World Beyond the Skyscrapers

As Sarah Khan, travel writer for The New York Times, aptly put it:

"Dubai is... a city that's shaped by a futuristic vision, yet rooted in a rich past. It's a place where you can ride a camel in the desert, explore spice markets and gold souks, and eat cuisines from around the world, all within a day."

Beyond the glitz and glamor of its soaring skyscrapers, Dubai offers a mosaic of experiences that beckon the traveler to dive deeper. The echoing calls to prayer, the scent of fragrant oud wafting through the air, and the intricate tapestries of traditional Emirati life are as integral to Dubai's fabric as its contemporary marvels.

Experience the serene beauty of the deserts . It's not just sand; it's a landscape that tells a story, from the time when Dubai was just a small fishing village. The desert whispers tales of Bedouin tribes, of ancient trade routes, and of the spirit of resilience that transformed this arid landscape into a global hub.

Venture out on a moonlit night, and you might just hear the rhythmic beats of traditional drums and see the fluid movements of the Tanoura dancers, painting a picture of a culture that's as vibrant today as it was centuries ago.

Dive Deeper: Unconventional Dubai Delights

Culinary wonders.

Dubai is a veritable melting pot of global flavors, a testament to its cosmopolitan flair. Begin your gastronomic journey savoring Emirati delicacies under the starlit desert sky.

Relish the aromatic Al Harees, cooked in clay pots and traditionally served during festivals, or the succulent Lamb Ouzi, a lavish dish typically reserved for grand celebrations. But Dubai's culinary landscape doesn't stop at local delights.

At Atlantis, The Palm, dine at Ossiano for an underwater experience, with exotic marine life swimming by as you savor sumptuous seafood.

From high-end restaurants with celebrity chefs at the helm to humble street food stalls churning out mouth-watering Shawarmas, every meal in Dubai is an exploration in itself.

Art Galleries in Al Fahidi District

The winding lanes of Al Fahidi District are a cultural treasure trove.

Whitewashed walls house numerous art galleries that showcase the city's burgeoning artistic talent.

Majlis Gallery, for instance, offers a peak into traditional Middle Eastern art, while the XVA Gallery delves into contemporary pieces that challenge and intrigue.

The district is a testament to how Dubai respects and nurtures its rich history while embracing modernity with open arms.

Secret Beaches

While Dubai is famed for its glitzy waterfront resorts, there's a side to its coastline that remains unsung.

These are the serene, lesser-known stretches of sandy bliss, untouched by the footprints of mass tourism.

Locals cherish these hidden havens, and they're hesitant to share their secrets. But here's a tip: strike up a conversation with Kevin Erickson if you happen to bump into him.

With a little persuasion and a shared love for sun, sand, and surf, he might just whisper the coordinates of his cherished beach spot, away from the bustling crowds—a piece of unspoiled paradise in a city of marvels.

Getting Around: Tips from Kevin Erickson

Dubai's public transportation is top-notch, but consider renting a car if you want to explore outside the city.

Remember, Friday mornings are quiet since it's the local weekend, making it perfect for sightseeing.

A Personal Conclusion

This desert jewel, once a humble trading post, has metamorphosed into a beacon of modernity and luxury, a testament to what vision, ambition, and determination can achieve. It's easy to be swayed by its glittering skyline and opulent shopping centers, but the heart of Dubai pulses in its old neighborhoods, its bustling souks, and the tales of its inhabitants.

There's a harmony here, a balance between the ancient and the ultra-modern. Where else can you find robot jockeys racing camels in the morning and attend a world-class opera in the evening? Where the echoes of age-old Bedouin chants seamlessly blend with the beats of international DJs?

The intricacies and nuances of this city are what make it extraordinary. It's a place that challenges perceptions, shatters expectations, and invites you to experience a mosaic of cultures, traditions, and innovations. As you wander through its streets, sail along its creek, or soar above its skyscrapers , you begin to grasp the true essence of Dubai.

For Kevin Erickson, and indeed many of us, Dubai is a reminder of the limitless boundaries of human creativity and the timeless allure of history.

It's more than just a stopover or a vacation spot; it's a journey through time, an adventure that leaves an indelible mark on the soul. And like all great tales, it beckons you to return, to uncover another layer, another story, in its ever-evolving narrative.

Is Dubai safe for American tourists?

Absolutely! Dubai is one of the safest cities globally, with a very low crime rate.

What's the best time to visit Dubai?

While Dubai is a year-round destination, the cooler months from November to March are most popular.

Do I need to dress conservatively in Dubai?

It's respectful to dress modestly in public areas. However, at beaches, pools, or clubs, regular western attire is acceptable.

How many days do I need to explore Dubai?

A week is ideal, but even in 3-4 days, you can cover many major attractions.

Is English spoken widely in Dubai?

Yes, English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas and businesses. 

• Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing
• The New York Times - Travel Section
• Atlas Obscura - Dubai's Hidden Gems

United Arab Emirates

Top new attractions in dubai 2022.

• November 28, 2022

Here are the top new attractions in Dubai 2022. If you haven’t visited yet, now is the best time to check them out!

Dubai is often associated with the best attractions in the world and new ones keep popping up every year. From picturesque beachside destinations to architectural marvels and theaters, the emirate never ceases to amaze tourists from all over the world.

The Museum of the Future

The Museum of the Future is a new tourist attraction in Dubai and is considered among the world’s most beautiful buildings. Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, the city’s main highway, the museum is a beautiful elliptical structure designed from stainless steel and inscribed with Arabic calligraphy quotes. The museum takes the visitors on an experiential journey to the year 2071, which corresponds with the centenary year of the UAE’s founding. The seven-storey building has no pillars and is an engineering marvel. The museum presents various futuristic experiences – a trip to space, a visit to the Amazon rainforests and a spa of the senses. It utilises the latest virtual reality and augmented reality technology, big data analysis, AI and human-machine interaction.

Infinity des Lumières

Infinity des Lumières is an inclusive, immersive, one-of-a-kind cultural experience that uses cutting-edge digital technology to transform the way we perceive, understand and feel art. 

A mesmerising trip and innovative, multi-sensory concept, designed to activate and engage all the senses. An exciting fusion of art, music, architecture, science, state-of-the-art technology and high-tech engineering.

Sky Views Observatory

Sky Views is Dubai’s latest and most innovative destination for leisure experiences and unique thrilling adventures. More than just another observation deck, Sky Views Observatory is a one-of-a-kind attraction that simply can’t be missed, and the gateway to three adrenaline-pumping activities, each more extreme than the last.

Take a thrilling ride in the panoramic glass elevator to more than 219.5 metres above the ground. Walk the 25-metre glass floor, and enjoy spectacular views of the city’s fabulous skyline and shining coast.

Aura SkyPool

Water meets sky at the world’s highest 360° infinity pool. Perched 200 meters atop The Palm Tower, Aura Skypool offers not only uninterrupted views of the emirate, but also a unique pool day experience. 

Expect your gaze to be pulled in all different directions with wall-to-wall azure views of the pool, sea and sky while you spot all of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks from on-high, from Ain Dubai to Burj Khalifa. Get a birds-eye view of Palm Jumeirah and a peak across the Arabian Gulf at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah.

Gaze upon the icon Dubai skyline like never before — from 250m in the air! An incredible experience, a ride on this observation wheel lasts around 48 minutes. LED screens in each capsule provide information to visitors on all the landmarks they can spot amidst the captivating 360 views!

The attraction’s name translates to Dubai Eye — a fitting moniker. Those who ride this epic Dubai ferris wheel will be able to spot various landmarks that define the emirate’s iconic cityscape, such as Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah and Burj Khalifa.

Hatta Dome Park

A refuge in nature, the Hatta Dome Park offers one of the most offbeat camping experiences anywhere in the Middle East. Settled by the Hatta mountain range, these luxury glamping tents let you settle in the wild outdoors without foregoing the comfort of a warm room and bed. 

A few minutes’ walks from the tents lead one to the Hatta Wadi where one can try their hand in a number of extreme adventure sports, including ziplining, mountain karting, or paragliding.

Be it for solo travelers, a group of friends, couples, or families with kids – the city has a wide range of attractions and experiences to offer visitors of all ages. In recent years, the city has added a whole lot of new attractions exhibiting mind-blowing architecture, iconic art, cutting-edge technology, and great visual vibrance, growing to be a recurring holiday destination for millions of tourists worldwide. 

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8 Iconic Tourist Spots In Dubai That Makes It Ideal To Visit! 2022

With millions of people passing through the Arab metropolis each year, Dubai is the most interesting city on the planet! Dubai has a reputation for elegance and a rich lifestyle, thanks to its modern architectural design, exotic and bustling nightlife, and spectacular bird's-eye perspective of the gorgeous skylines. When planning your next Dubai vacation, you will undoubtedly be overwhelmed by the range of tourist spots available. Dubai is located in the United Arab Emirates and is known for its nightlife scene, beaches, high-rises, retail malls, luxury hotels, museums, and much more.

8 Iconic Tourist Spots In Dubai

Here are some of the most prominent Dubai tourism spots that all visitors should visit.

1. Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Islands consist of two man-made islands, the Palm Jumeirah and the Palm Jebel Ali. Tourists may visit Palm Jumeirah, one of Dubai's most renowned tourist destinations and the only finished island. The island is designed to resemble a palm tree. It's a popular tourist destination in Dubai. The best way to see the Palm Islands is from the air or the observation deck of one of Dubai's many high-rise skyscrapers, such as the Burj Khalifa . To see the islands, take a Speedboat from Palm Jumeirah to some of the nearby prominent sites.

2. Burj Al Arab

This magnificent skyscraper in Dubai is a world-class hotel with amenities fit for kings. This Dubai attraction is a 56-story structure that is open all year and caters to individuals who like to live life to the fullest. You may be fortunate enough to have your butler, and the view is breathtaking for those with a taste for luxury and absolute happiness. There are numerous accommodation types to select from, or you may take a day tour of the hotel's pubs and restaurants. Some locations to visit near Burj Al Arab are Skyview Bar, Wadi Water Park, Souk Madinat, Jumeirah, Hint Hunt Dubai, and Ski Dubai.

3. Dubai Glow Garden

If you haven't already, put the Dubai Garden Glow on your list of things to see in Dubai. This wonderful new concept garden, with its four varying themes, has rushed visitors to discover the enchantment that lies beneath. The Dinosaur Park is a great site to observe over 120 prehistoric dinosaurs, while the Ice Park is a nice opportunity to escape the Dubai heat while admiring ice sculptures. Keeping the principle of recycling in mind, this park features an Art Park filled with artworks constructed from old bottles, CDs, and dishes.

4. Dubai Aquarium And Underwater Zoo

In Dubai, there is one of the world's largest suspended aquariums. You may enjoy an amazing nature experience here. This aquarium has a wide variety of aquatic animals. The underwater zoo has a large collection of sand tiger sharks as well as many other endangered species that are being protected in their natural habitat. The aquarium is one of the most well-known tourist attractions in Dubai. This aquarium and underwater zoo hold approximately 140 different species. The jungle, rocky beach, and live ocean are all ecological zones. A trip through the 48m long tunnel within will provide you with a spectacular perspective of the jungle and the dazzling world of the ocean. A membership card that entitles you to a special discount on admission ticket costs is also provided to you by them.

5. Dubai Miracle Garden

Visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden should be at the top of every nature lover's list of must-do activities in Dubai. The beautiful plants will delight your senses and leave you with a nice and glad sensation all day. This Dubai attraction is the world's biggest natural floral garden, and what makes it even more amazing is that it is located in the city of deserts. Animals, vehicles, the Burj Khalifa, and many other creations constructed of fresh flowers are on display. It is a floral design pioneer, with technology fitted to move, alter shapes, and illuminate the models. A trip to this garden might do wonders for your mood.

6. Global Village

Global Village, located on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, is Dubai's premier family entertainment and cultural destination, offering a unique shopping experience in Dubai with its 31 pavilions, each representing a different country from across the world. With so much to see and do in the Global Village, visitors will have every minute filled with amusement. This year's Global Village will stage over 12,000 concerts for five months.

7. Atlantis Palm Hotel

Atlantis Palm Hotel, a fantastic 7-star hotel with over 1,539 rooms of varied sumptuous proportions, is one of the most famous locations to visit in Dubai, attracting the attention of many travelers and, of course, those with no limit on their credit cards. The location is known as the Royal Towers , and there are fireworks practically every night that you may enjoy. After visiting this hotel in Dubai and seeing the different pleasures available there, your trip to Dubai will be complete. Because this hotel is popular with Hollywood celebrities, you could run across them here.

8. Beach of Jumeirah

Jumeirah Beach is one of the most popular tourist sites in Dubai , and it is ideal for everyone who travels. The beach is perfect for all types of beachgoers as well as sunset watchers. It is a picture-perfect setting with a selection of beautiful hotels along the highway going to the beach, first-rate facilities, and breathtaking sunset views from the beach.

Dubai's Diverse Food Scene Which Shouldn’t Be Missed

Dubai's food scene is highly diversified and cosmopolitan, ranging from fine-dining restaurants like Yannick Alléno and Heinz Beck to hole-in-the-wall shawarma places. Take a walking tour of ancient Dubai with Frying Pan Adventures, which provides amazing gourmet tours year-round, to get the inside scoop on the city's melting pot of cuisines. The Beach at JBR and The Walk at JBR are popular eating districts for unlicensed, mid-range eateries; Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) and City Walk for high-end licensed restaurants; and Deira for affordable food.

Conclusion!

Dubai is a perfect illustration of what hard work and dedication can do for a whole city. It has progressed from a port city to one of the world's top tourist destinations. When you travel on your next vacation, you will notice the numerous places to visit in Dubai.  Dubai Travel Tourism offers Dubai City Tour , Dhow Cruise Tour , Morning Desert Safari & New Year's Eve with Local Tour Guides in Luxury Vehicles. Book your trip with us now.

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Below are the 2023 Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Top Attractions—the most iconic landmarks you simply have to see to believe.

The Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best title celebrates the highest level of excellence in travel. It’s awarded to those who receive a high volume of above-and-beyond reviews and opinions from the Tripadvisor community over a 12-month period. Out of our 8 million listings, fewer than 1% achieve this milestone.

Basílica de la Sagrada Familia

Anne Frank House

The Dubai Fountain

Empire State Building

Musée d'Orsay

Eiffel Tower

Trevi Fountain

Central Park

Plaza de España

Duomo di Milano

Parque del Retiro

Kilmainham Gaol Museum

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center

Iguazu Falls

Gardens by the Bay

Iolani Palace

Jardin Majorelle

Museo Nacional de Antropologia

Stanley Park

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Dubai: 3 major family attractions closing for summer 2024

Just last month, global village closed its doors to visitors on may 5 – after announcing an extension for a week.

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Published: Tue 4 Jun 2024, 9:48 AM

Last updated: Tue 4 Jun 2024, 10:39 PM

As the summer season is set to begin, some of Dubai's popular tourist attractions have closed for the season.

Just last month, Global Village closed its doors to visitors on May 5 – after announcing an extension for a week. The attraction had opened a week earlier than usual for season 28 — on October 18 instead of October 25.

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Here are three major attractions that have closed or will shut soon for the summer:

1. Dubai Safari

The family-friendly park closed its doors on June 2, 2024. It took to Instagram to announce the last day before the summer – through a video. Watch the video below:

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Dubai Safari Park (@dubaisafari)

2. Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City Dubai

Al Wasl Plaza, one of Expo City Dubai's most exciting spots to visit, will be shutting for the season. The surreal water feature will also be shut in efforts to conserve water and energy.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Expo City Dubai (@expocitydubai)

3. Dubai Miracle Garden

Residents and tourists will be able to continue enjoying the beautiful features made of flowers at the Dubai Miracle Garden for another two weeks.

The garden has announced that it will be closing for the season on June 15.

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Unlock huge savings with pre-paid access to top sights, tours and activities. Choose from the available attraction passes below.

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What is a dubai pass, how to use a dubai city pass, option 1: dubai pass, option 2: go dubai pass, common dubai pass questions.

A Dubai pass, also known as a Dubai city pass or an attractions pass, is a great way of seeing Dubai’s sights for less.

See all the sights with a Dubai pass

Using your Dubai attractions pass is as simple as opening a mobile app.

Experience all that's possible in Dubai for less, with the Dubai Pass.

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Dubai Flexi Attractions Pass

Save up to 40% on more than 30 Dubai experiences. Choose three, five or seven top Dubai attractions.

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Save up to 50% on selected attractions with seven days to use your pass.

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Save up to 60% on 30+ attractions, with three or five-day passes to fit your schedule.

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Save up to 40% on Dubai's best theme parks, with multiple options to suit you.

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Save up to 50% on two to four top experiences, to use over 36 hours during your Dubai stopover.

Enjoy even more flexible savings with the Go Dubai Pass.

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Select which pass is perfect for you

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Visit as many attractions as you like with 2 to 7-day passes, valid over two weeks.

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Enjoy access to 3, 4, 5, or 7 attractions, with 60 days to use your pass.

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