places to visit in dubai and prices

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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5 Days in Dubai: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

4 Days in Dubai: The Perfect Itinerary (First Time Visit)

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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24 Best Things to Do in Dubai

From exploring traditional souks to skiing indoors, here's how to get to this know this dazzling city.

Latifah Al-Hazza is a Chicago-based travel journalist, documentary filmmaker, and co-founder of Femscape Sojourns, a boutique women's travel company. Her work has appeared in CNN Travel, The New York Times, Insider, Reader's Digest, Business Insider Australia, Harper’s Bazaar, and Travel + Leisure .

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In Dubai , it's possible to chill on the beach, stroll in the desert, and have a cocktail at the top of skyscraper all in the same day. “Dubai’s got a glorious magnetism to it," says Nada Badran, a Dubai resident for more than 30 years and experience curator and tour guide with Wander With Nada. "There’s so much palpable energy in the air, and every day the city offers a new opportunity for creative fulfillment."

Despite the above, Dubai is sometimes shrouded by misconceptions, says Isabella Sullivan, founder and editor of Near+Far , a travel magazine for modern Middle East travelers. “The first misconception is that it’s all glossy, fake, and superficial, which couldn’t be further from the truth," she told Travel + Leisure . Another misconception is that it’s not a safe place to visit. On the contrary, Dean Hayter, travel product manager at Origin , says that “living in Dubai is the safest I have ever felt in any city."

So if any of the above has kept you from booking a trip to this vibrant city, you can set your mind at ease. And once you've arrived, here are the best things to do in Dubai.

Related : The Best Times To Visit Dubai for Beautiful Weather, Lower Prices, and Fewer Crowds

Learn about local coffee culture.

GCShutter/Getty Images

The Arab world is known for its coffee — from traditional Turkish coffee to modern delights like cereal lattes — and Dubai has myriad cafes in which to get your daily fix. “[There are] so many cool, unique, artsy, and design-led coffee shops," says Sullivan. "Some have beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces, while a new slew of them have moody interiors and unique, immersive themes." Sullivan’s favorites are The Grey , Nightjar Coffee and Tom&Serg .  

Cruise Dubai Creek.

Angelo Cavalli/Getty Images

In the past, Dubai Creek was part of the trade route connecting ports in the Arabian Gulf. Today, it's a beautiful way to see the city , and one of Hayter's top suggestions in Dubai. “Go to Dubai Creek before sunset and hire an abra (traditional wooden boat) for a private cruise," Hayter says. "When you're in the middle of the creek and the sky turns pink and the call to prayer fills the sky, it is magical.”

Go stargazing in the desert.

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Fascinated by the night sky? Book a night safari with ecotourism company Platinum Heritage , which includes guidance from an astronomer and use of a telescope. “The sky is so dark that you get to see the most incredible blanket of stars," says Hayter. "If you're with an astronomer who can explain everything you're looking at, it's an amazing experience."

Play a round of golf.

MaksymPoriechkin/Getty Images

Golf may not come to mind immediately when planning a vacation to the Middle East, but Dubai has several recognizable courses, including The Emirates Golf Club – Majlis Course , which is considered one of the best in the destination. Kelvin Cheung, chef partner at Jun’s and a Dubai resident for two years, suggests checking to see if any of your credit cards include free rounds of golf as a perk. Note that the best time to golf here is between November and March, when the weather is more comfortable.

Relax at a Dubai beach.

“Dubai has some great and uncrowded public beaches, where you can just enjoy the warm Arabian sea and sunshine at no cost,” says Sullivan. Try Kite Beach, since it also offers fantastic showers and bathrooms, plus a handful of food stands and coffee shops. For an extra treat, rent a Careem bike and cruise along Kite Beach’s lengthy boardwalk.

Enjoy the diverse dining scene.

Between the innovative design of its restaurants and the exceptional diversity of its culinary offerings, Dubai is a fantastic place for foodies. When planning your meals, consider chic restaurants like Amazonico , which takes you on a sensory journey through the Amazon; SEVA , a laid back, plant-based cafe within a wellness center; and Jun’s , a fusion restaurant with the Burj Khalifa skyscraper as its backdrop and where the chef aims to introduce himself to each table. “The city offers a wide range of flavors and textures, and truly pushes boundaries," says chef Cheung of Jun's. "Because the Dubai food scene offers top-quality food and service in every corner of the city, my team and I stay motivated to deliver excellence with every experience. There are very few places in the world that cater to such a diverse set of people.”

Indulge in the facilities of a luxe hotel.

Visiting a world-class hotel in Dubai and enjoying its wellness offerings is a must. “Dubai has so many gorgeous hotels, and more often than not, you can purchase day passes to enjoy their facilities, including beaches, pools, and spas; some also have tennis and padel courts,” says Sullivan. "Apps like Privlee and Viya are great for tourists and residents; you pay a fee and have unlimited access to partner hotels, beach clubs, and gym facilities, so you can try somewhere new every day.”

Get lost in the streets of Old Dubai.

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“I am probably at my happiest when wandering in Old Dubai’s streets, sikkas (alleys), and souks , which are swarming with activity," says Badran of Wander With Nada. "The labyrinthine souks are where everyone wants to sell you something; ‘Shakira’ and ‘professor’ are heard countless times, as vendors appear to have unanimously agreed it's the best way to capture customers’ attention. People duck into beckoning small shops where stools are commonplace, as is a cup of chai, and every transaction involves a lengthy bargaining debate. Sounds of carts mingle with scents of aromatic spices and musky perfume."

Explore Al Serkal Avenue.

GIUSEPPE CACACE/AFP via Getty Images

Al Serkal Avenue is an industrial warehouse district that has been transformed into a creative hub. “It’s an oasis of art, community spaces, and all things quirky," says Badran. "To visit is to be transported to another world of art galleries, cozy cafes, boutique shops, and plenty more." The venue's galleries are open to the public at no cost, and it's fun to wander here even if you’re not an art buff.

Go on a desert adventure.

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Tour through the desert in a 4x4, or go extreme off-roading in a dune buggy or on a quad bike with Expert Rangers . And if you want the full Arabian desert experience, book the package that includes sandboarding, camel riding, an Arab dinner, and entertainment.

Get the best view of Dubai.

If you're a thrill seeker, consider a dive with Skydive Dubai . Divers fall 13,000 feet through the sky over the Palm Jumeriah — what a memory to take home with you.

Book a traditional spa treatment.

Courtesy of One&Only The Palm

A hammam is a traditional cleansing ritual that involves hot steam, a revitalizing scrub, rhassoul clay, and vitamin-E rich products — you are bound to exit this experience feeling the softest you’ve ever felt. We recommend booking a hammam treatment at the Guerlain Spa at the One&Only The Palm.

Head to Hatta.

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Hatta is in the Hajar Mountains, about 60 miles outside of Dubai. This is the perfect place to appreciate nature — go for a hike with spectacular views, kayak in the reservoir, or mountain bike on designated trails. There's also a heritage village that’s home to restored traditional houses and a defense tower.

Scuba dive in a pool.

Courtesy of Deep Dive Dubai

Deep Dive Dubai isn’t your typical swimming pool — it’s the deepest in the world at about 197 feet deep. Scuba, freediving, and snorkel courses are offered here, and if you're already certified, you're welcome to explore this underwater world designed to look like a sunken city.

Visit the Museum of the Future.

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This building is an architectural wonder in shape and design. The exterior is wrapped in Arabic poetry, and the structure's circular shape represents humanity while the abyss in the middle signifies the indefinite future. Inside you will find immersive exhibitions that ask observers to reflect on the world, the future, and themselves. Purchase tickets in advance, as the museum is a popular attraction and day-of tickets aren't always available.

Visit Expo City Dubai.

This venue is a future-forward miniature city that maintains much of what was offered during the World Expo (Expo City was part of the exhibitions, which took place in 2022, delayed due to the pandemic). The sustainable city offers educational experiences and attractions that revolve around global topics, plus multiple playgrounds and parks .

Spend a day at Dubai’s newest resort.

Courtesy of Atlantis The Royal

Beyonce performed an exclusive show for the opening ceremony of Atlantis The Royal — what a way to get the world's attention. This ultra-luxurious resort is worth checking out, even if you aren’t staying the night. It’s home to eight restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs (including Nobu by the Beach), a sky-high infinity pool, a club with panoramic views of the skyline, and dozens of other experiences.

Book a tour with Wander with Nada.

Nada of Wander With Nada is a fun and peppy guide, sure, but she's also incredibly knowledgeable about Dubai, and therefore just the guide you want to get to know the destination. Choose from several tour options, including one that highlights Dubai landmarks and another that focuses on Old Dubai.

Party at a beach club.

Beach clubs in Dubai are worth the hype, with Twiggy by La Cantine and Nammos being two of our favorites. Rent a cabana or beach chair and spend the entire day (or just a few hours) soaking in the sun with a drink in hand, listening to vibey beats.

Shop in Dubai Gold Souk.

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The streets may as well be paved with gold in Dubai's Gold Souk , a fascinating marketplace with nearly 400 vendors. You will see gold of all karats and styles, from simple to elaborate. Note that if you do plan to purchase something special, don’t be shy about negotiating for a better price, as that is custom here.

Shop in a Dubai mall.

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Dubai has no shortage of malls, where you'll find just about every brand you can name. Visit Dubai Mall to see one of the largest malls in the world (it's also home to the Dubai Aquarium); the textile souk for traditional shopping; or the Dubai Design District (D3), which is home to pop-up fashion boutiques and rotating art installations.

Go skiing indoors.

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If you can dream it, Dubai can execute it, and Ski Dubai is proof. Want to ski indoors then step outside into warm weather? This is the place. Maintaining freezing temperatures all year long, this ski resort provides guests with ski suits to keep them cozy. Lessons are available, and there's even a chair lift — and penguins — inside.

Order a tailor-made outfit.

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If there’s one thing foreigners may not know about the Middle East, it’s that the tailors are amazing, and that most locals have everything from simple, everyday outfits to wedding gowns tailor-made for them. A trip to Dubai is therefore an opportunity to have your dream design brought to life. Visit the textile souk for fabric, get measured by a tailor, and voila, you’ll have a new outfit within days. Getting fit for traditional dishdasha (for men) or abaya (for women) is a nice way to bring a bit of Dubai home, too.

Ride the Dubai Metro.

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The Dubai Metro is an extensive and well-maintained public transportation system that connects major locations in Dubai at an affordable price. Residents typically use these trains for their daily commute, so hop on a train to feel like a local.

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101 Places to Visit in Dubai

The race course for camels is located close to the Marmoom Heritage Village. Visit this place to witness and feel your heart racing as you watch the sport amidst the cheering of the crowd.

Aqua Adventure Water Park

Located in the Atlantis Hotel at Palm Jumeirah, the water park is a gregarious place spread across 17 hectares and consists of a plethora of rides like the Aquaconda, which is the world’s waterslide, Zoomerngo, Poseidon’s Revenge, Leap of Faith featuring a 9-story near-vertical drop, and so on.

On The Beach opposite JBR, there is a themed park called Aqua Fun. To date, it has the record of being the world’s biggest inflatable park. It is the first park with inflatable water slides. There are about 74 games meant for all age groups.

Aura Sky Pool

Visit this pool if you love height and water. This infinity pool is believed to be one of the highest in the world. It is located on the 50th floor of Nakheel’s Palm Tower and is 200 meters above the ground. The view is amazing, with the Arabian Gulf in the background.

Children’s City

Along Bur Dubai, within the Creekside Park, a lego-style city awaits kids with numerous learning stations. The buildings in the city are interactive and designed for kids aged 2 to 15 years. There’s a planetarium too.

This is an indoor pool, the deepest pool in the world, and is an attraction for water lovers who love to discover the underwater world. Here, you can explore a sunken city and learn scuba diving skills.

Desert Safari

The Arabian Desert, with its undulating sand dune, calls for a safari. The key attraction is the setting sun. Alongside, participate in adventure activities like sandboarding, witness belly dancing, relax in Bedouin tents, and enjoy a barbeque spread for dinner.

Dolphinarium

If dolphins, seals, and birds are your kind of thing, then a visit to the Dolphinarium must be on your list of things to do. Watch the performance of the aquatic animals while you are also allowed to touch, swim and play with them.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Located inside the Dubai Mall, this is a 10-million-liter tank that is an eye-opener with about 140 aquatic species consisting of approximately 400 sharks and rays. Other species include giant groupers, sand tiger sharks, and more. There is also the gigantic King Crocodile weighing 750kg. The best part is the walk-through using the underwater tunnel. Cage snorkeling is the other pastime to indulge in here. It also owns the Guinness World Record for the world’s largest “Acrylic Plane”.

Dubai Autodrome

It is the city’s fully integrated motorsport and entertainment zone and the first of its kind in the city. It is one of the best tourist spots in Dubai . Right in the center of the MotorCity Development area, the Autodrome features a 5.39 km long circuit used primarily for racing.

Dubai Canal

A 3.2 km manmade canal starts from Dubai Creek and flows into the Arabian Gulf, and meanders through the city center with walkways, cycle paths, a shopping center, restaurants, hotels, luxury housing, and more on the sides. You can enjoy the spectacle on foot, cycle, board a ferry, or cross the Canal using pedestrian bridges, especially the Tolerance Bridge.

Dubai Creek

The Creekside, where you may wander in the evening, is one of the greatest locations in the city. The Dhow cruise also starts from here. You can also sit down for dinner at the restaurants located on the promenade, like the Casa De Tapas, The Broadwalk, etc.

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

One of the foremost reasons to visit the Conservation Reserve is to experience a flight on a hot air balloon with a seasoned pilot. Your flight will be accompanied by falcons flying at the height of 1219 meters while you watch the sunrise over the Hajar.

Dubai Festival City

Close to the International Airport, the place is centrally located. You can shop here, dine here with several cafes and bakeries present, and check into one of the hotels.

40 meters high, it is an incomparable flying experience offering a unique three-in-one experience involving food, entertainment, and a panoramic view of the landscape of the city. This is a must-enjoy family rendezvous.

Global Village

Ninety cultures meet here at the Global Village on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road. Creating a world without borders, it is a melting pot where you can witness and participate in a kaleidoscope of fun-filled activities. Stunt shows, #WonderRide challenges, snow fest ice rink, and Lord of the Dance are some of the events to look forward to.

About 90 minutes from the central part of the city lies this waterbody that is surrounded by the Hajar Range. Visit this place during the winter season, as there are ducks swimming across the waterbody. It’s the perfect place for Insta photos; you can drive along the edge of the water and take rides in kayaks, canoes, etc.

Hatta Heritage Village

Nestled in the Al Hajar Mountains, the Village depicts the authentic traditional life of the city. The old-city vibes are unmissable. The houses are made from mountain rocks. There are 17 houses, 1 fortress, 2 castles, and a couple of sculptures.

Experience what it feels like skydiving from a real plane in this zone located at Play Nation in City Centre Mirdiff, where every individual gets to fly about 4 meters high in an air-conditioned tunnel. The experience is truly surreal.

IMG World of Adventure

This is the globe’s biggest indoor park located on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road City in Dubailand. There are five zones – Novo Cinemas, Marvel, Lost Valley, IMG Boulevard, and Cartoon Network. Visit this place if you love action and adventure.

One of the best places for kids is Kidzania, where your children get to learn from role-playing activities. It is ideal for kids aged between 4 and 16 years old. The center is located at the Dubai Mall.

Lahbah Desert

Get your adrenalin pumping at the Lahbah Desert, driving an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) across the red sand dunes at neck-breaking speed, full throttle, and a bumpy 60-minute drive across the ATV circuit. Post the experience; you can laze at the 5-star Al Khayma Camp in a Bedouin-styled camp, go on camel rides, and savor delicious desert cuisine while enjoying dance shows, stargazing, and more.

It is spread across 14 hectares and is located in the Dubai Parks and Resort with 6 themed lands and 40 rides. It also features about 15,000 structures made from 20 million LEGO bricks. Kids can have an awesome time building cars and races. They can also enjoy activities like robotics at Mindstorms, obtain a driver’s license, and more.

Lost Chambers Aquarium

The depth of this aquarium at the Atlantis is mind-blowing and fascinating, with 65,000 marine animals. Visit the 11-million-liter aquarium where thousands of rays, colorful fishes, and sharks breed. There are multiple interesting activities lined up for visitors here. You can indulge in Hatha Yoga for an hour or enroll in a dive certification course.

You can also go on a diving or snorkeling experience or in the Aquatrek Xtreme. Let your kids feed baby rays, learn more about the breeding programs, and visit a state-of-the-art Fish Hospital.

The lake has a characteristic shape – two huge heart-shaped waterbodies that are connected and located in the desert. It is home to 100+ animal and plant species and is one of the most picturesque places in the city.

Mattel Play Town

This is an eduplay interactive indoor zone meant for kids in the age group between 2 and 10 years. It is a town where kids can use their imagination to experience stimulated playtime. Characters like Thomas from Thomas & Friends, Fireman Sam, etc., are quite popular with kids.

Created by SEGA in partnership with BBC Earth, Orbi is a nature lover’s stopover as it takes you into the world of the wild. Using 4D and 3D effects, the place features multi-sensory indulgences. Films shot by BBC Earth for Orbi are featured here, offering an immersive experience through smell, water effects, wind, and motion control.

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

As you embark on a trail in this best-managed zones in the city, you will be welcomed by pink flamingos. There are hundreds of migratory birds and about 20,000 species of aerial and aquatic animals to win your heart.

Riverland™ Dubai

A themed destination filled with fun and dining options, Riverland™ is considered to be the gateway to Dubai Parks & Resorts. You can also go for a stroll on the riverside. Added to this, there are four zones – India Gate, The French Village, The Peninsula, and Boardwalk. These zones have innumerable retail, dining, and entertainment activities.

Another pleasant way to spend a summer afternoon in the city is to head to the Mall of Emirates and enter the Ski Dubai zone. Snowboarding, skiing across snow-covered slopes, experiencing chair lift and snow bullet, there’s a lot to do.

The Green Planet

The city offers a unique opportunity to visit a rainforest and that too an indoor vertical glass bio-dome at the Green Planet. There are about 3,000 flora and fauna species co-existing in this ecosystem. The forest is divided into 4 levels – Canopy, Forest Floor, Mid Story, and Flooded Rainforest. Visit City Walk at Al Wasi to visit this unique place.

Wild Wadi Waterpark

Wild Wadi Waterpark, opposite Burj Al-Arab, is the first waterpark in the world to get an ISO certification. It is one of the safest, technologically innovative waterparks in the city.

Al Mamzar Beach Park

One of the best places for barbecuing and picnicking in the city is this natural beach dotted with green lawns. There are several shaded spots for picnics and designated areas for barbecues.

Al Soufouh Beach

Also known as Secret Beach, it is pretty close to the Burj Al Arab. Dotted with palms, the beach is good for diving purposes as the water is quite deep here.

Azure Beach

This beach, which is right in the middle of the city, is incredibly serene and beautiful and perfect for a relaxing weekend. There are numerous stalls along the beach line. The beach comes alive in the evening with innumerable entertainment activities.

Barasti Beach

It is one of the most loved beaches in the city. The ambiance is relaxed, with lots of pool and recreational activities. There are also multiple shacks and restaurants serving mouth-watering dishes.

Black Palace Beach

It is a mystery jewel at Al Sufouh. It is one of the top locations for scuba diving and snorkeling and faces Palm Jumeirah. It is mostly uncrowded, straddled by castles.

Jebel Ali Beach

Located in Mina Jebel Ali, it is one of the best places for camping and water sports like surfing, kayaking, paddle boarding, windsurfing, kitesurfing, etc.

Jumeirah Beach

The soft white beach is inviting, with plenty of lounging facilities. You can indulge in watersports like jet skiing. It is the perfect venue to laze around on the sand, shop, and dine with friends and family.

At Al Manara Road, Kite Beach is a spectacle to watch. Besides water sports, there’s kitesurfing which is the main attraction of the beach. Other than that, tourists have a good time playing beach volleyball, soap football, beach tennis, etc.

One of the finest beaches in the city for water sports is this one. It is a graffiti-inspired backdrop and an Instagram-worthy hotspot. The activities you can indulge in include kayaking, water biking, and stand-up paddling.

Mamzar Beach Park

Visit the Al Mamzar Beachfront Park on the Deira coast, spread across 106 hectares. A family place, it is covered with green lawns and is the perfect place to go for a picnic with friends and family.

Mercato Beach

On Jumeirah Beach road, there is this peaceful beach that is less crowded. A cycling track and promenade make it a decent place for the entire family. The Jumeirah Fishing Harbour is close by with cafes and restaurants.

Umm Suqeim Beach

Also called Sunset Beach, the place is surrounded by coconut trees and grooves, creating a great spot for relaxation. It is close to Burj Al Arab. You can go in for water adventure activities too here.

The World Islands

Developed by Nakheel, a Dubai-based development company, these are private islands along the city’s coastline and resemble the map of the world. The best part is that the islands are given out on rent and sold. You can travel to the islands via air or water. There are a total of 300 islands along the coast.

To satisfy your gourmet needs, and relish authentic Emirati cuisine, visit Al Fanar. They have four branches across the city. The ambiance is from the 1960s, replicating a desert tent-like backdrop with a fire burning close by. The units are at Al Barsha Pond Park, Souk Al Bahar, Time Out Market, and Al Seef.

Chill at Chill

The Middle East’s unique Sub-Zero Lounge, Chill, is a different place altogether, with illuminated lighting and ice sculptures in the background. Even the seating is ice-made. The temperature indoors is -6°C. The best way to beat the heat outdoors!

Coffee Museum

Located at Al Fahidi at Bur Dubai, the Coffee Museum is an upscale classical setting where regional and oriental architecture blends seamlessly. It is a small and cozy ambiance that celebrates the coffee cultures from around the globe.

Dubai Opera

In Downtown Dubai, the opera is located in the Opera District. There are regular shows ranging from musical ones to dance, traditional music, theater, jazz, drama, and more. The opera occupies an area of 2000 sq meters in the multi-theater arrangement.

La Perle by Dragone

At Al Habtoor City, there’s the La Perle by Dragone show, where the audience is enthralled by live performances involving acrobatics and theatrical skills. There are innumerable aquatic and aerial stunts. In the background, there’s music and special effects.

The Dubai Fountain Show

The Dubai Fountain is another record of the city’s glorious list of firsts. It is the world’s highest-performing spectacle of lights and music. Present on the Burj Lake; you are in for a visual delight with 1,000+ water expressions and choreographed performances with various kinds of music in the background, ranging from contemporary western music to classical Arabic songs.

Dubai Polo & Equestrian Club

Stop by the club at Al Qudra Road for the rejuvenation of the mind and the body. Ride a horse to keep yourself fit, go for a swim, unwind at the spa, learn Zumba and yoga, and enjoy world-class cuisines at the restaurants’ in-house.

Alserkal Art District

The art district is a must-visit with galleries featuring artwork from the best of artists from around the world. Even the work of upcoming artists is showcased here.

A family-friendly place, Oli Oli has eight galleries across two floors. Each gallery is inspired by artists and educators worldwide. Along with artifacts, and modern equipment, there are artworks on display.

Al Qudra Lake

It is a desert oasis, a part of the Desert Conservation Reserve at Al Marmoom. Catch the swans, ducks, flamingos, and other bird species swimming across the lake. There are food trucks nearby for your taste buds.

A visit to the Burj Khalifa is incomplete if you do not stop by the lake. You can take a traditional boat ride on the Abra water taxi or even cover the entire manmade lake in duck, flamingo, and swan-shaped boats. The adventurous can ride water bikes. From here, you can witness the dancing fountain rising up to a height of 900 ft, going as high as a 45-storied building.

Al Bastakia

This is Old Dubai’s resplendent of the Arabian culture in every small aspect of the neighborhood. From sandy lanes to buildings made of coral, gypsum, and limestone and entrance doors made of wood with brass knockers, the place is a nostalgic hotspot.

Close to Dubai Creek, a stretch of 1.8 km shoreline marks Al Seef, the place that served as the pearl diving port during yesteryears. There are walkways to enable visitors to explore this majestic place.

Dubai Hills

This is the place where you will find most of the expat community residing, as it is an uber-luxurious residential area. There are villas and apartments, an 18-hole golf course, the Mall of Emirates, Dubai Hills Hospital, and more.

Dubai Marina

A visit to this happening city on the Arabian Gulf is incomplete without a Dhow Cruise on the Venetian-styled Dubai Marina . The best time is in the evening. Not just that, you get to enjoy a sumptuous spread of international cuisine and stay entertained by a traditional Tanura dance show.

Majlis Ghorfat Umm Al Sheif

This was the majlis, or the summer retreat for the late Ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum. Located in Jumeirah, this is a site of national pride and heritage, managed by the Dubai Culture & Arts Authority now.

Etihad Museum

This museum gives a peek into the history of the Emirates. This is the place where the founding fathers of all 7 Emirates of the UAE had signed the final declaration to form the country. Through photos, artifacts, interactive pavilions, and documentaries, you can revisit the past.

Jameel Arts Centre

The center on Jaddaf Waterfront is one of the independent places where contemporary art is exhibited for public viewing. The white-shimmering building also is the venue for various engaging and learning sessions for artists.

Museum of the Future

In the Financial District, this new-age museum takes visitors to 2071 and beyond. It is a cherishable visit to the future. Learn how astronauts live in space and experience the Amazon forest at the Digital Amazon exhibit, the effect of climatic changes on the human body, and more.

Museum of Illusions

Right on Dubai Creek is this amazing museum where your visual senses get tricked by optical illusions. There’s a dedicated room where gravity has no presence. The Vortex Tunnel and the Head on the Platter are the other capturing experiences.

Museum of the Poet Aqeli

Close to the Spice Souk is the home of poet Mubarak bin Hamad bin Mubarak Al Manea Al Oqaii, which is now converted into a museum where visitors can read the original work of the poet in his own handwriting.

Al Barari Playground

The playground, which is located on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, is a great place to bring your kids for an action-packed day. Alongside, there are sugar-free icecreams, dairy items, burgers, fries, hotdogs, and drinks to keep the young ones full and energized.

Aventura Park

Located at Mushrif Park, near Gate 1 in Mirdrif, this is another unique adventure park spread across 35,000 sq meters. It is the only place to experience tree-top adventure in this region, along with activities like tree surfing, rope climbing, zip lining, crawling web, log balancing, and more.

As the name suggests, this park has been designed for dogs and pets and is a haven for pet owners. There are two distinct areas in the pet-friendly place – one for bigger dogs and the other for smaller canines.

Bollywood Park

A themed Bollywood park at Dubai Parks and Resorts at Sheikh Zayed Road awaits you. You get to see an interesting mix of classics and the latest hits from the Hindi film industry. There are live performances and numerous food stalls creating a nostalgic essence.

Dubai Butterfly Garden

A part of Dubailand, the Butterfly Garden has the coveted title of being the globe’s biggest covered garden for these winged creatures. There are 10 domes, each covering an area of 6,673 sq m that are home to thousands of Papilionoidea family members.

Dubai Garden Glow

Fitted with almost 10 million LEDs, this glow-in-the-dark garden is one-of-its-kind in the world. There are different themed parks inside the garden, like Arts Park, Dinosaur Park, Magic Park, etc. The garden opens from October to April every year.

Dubai Miracle Garden

With a collection of almost 45 million flowers, the Miracle Garden occupies about 72,000 sq meters. With an exotic collection to complement it, it is the biggest floral garden in the entire globe. Stop by to attend the musical shows and live performances here.

Hatta Caravan Park

Spend a night outdoors in the luxury caravans, which makes it a perfect spot for glamping. The national park and its splendor, along with the luxurious interiors of the caravan, offer memorable experiences. You are allowed to park your car next to the caravan, and there are many food trucks serving delicious cuisines.

Laguna Water Park

Spend your entire day in this water park with water rides, surfing artificial waves, raft slides, race slides, free fall slides, and more. Must-try activities include the WaveOz 180, Infinity Pool, Manta, and Constrictor.

Motion Gate

Another themed park for movie lovers is Motion Gate which is inspired by Hollywood. There are themed rides created from popular movies like King Fu Panda, The Smurfs, etc. It is located inside the Dubai Parks and Resorts.

Mushrif Park

Mushrif Park, one of the nicest locations in the city, includes an international village with traditional goods on display from many countries. It’s a good place for picnics, bird-watching, strolling, or enjoying a barbecue. There are options for sporting activities and animal rides too.

Quranic Park

Located in Al Khawaneej, this is one of the best parks in Dubai . The space here is meant for teaching the Holy Quran. The Cave of Miracles is the main attraction here.

For a nature lover, this is another sanctuary for peace of mind. It has been around since 1975, being one of the city’s first public parks. Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, there’s a runners’ track for joggers and sporting facilities like basketball and tennis courts.

Well-manicured gardens await you at the XPark Jr., adorned with lovely flowers. Alongside, there are swings and slides for kids. There are other adventurous activities too for kids, like net climbing, petting zoo, etc.

Zabeel Park

Most people know the park due to the presence of the world’s largest frame on its premises. Apart from this, the 52-hectare park has many other facilities like lakeside restaurants, a jogging track and pedestrian track, a BMX track, picnic areas, an ice skating rink, golfing area, a mini cricket pitch, a boating lake, and more.

Al Fahidi Street

This is the place to head to buy some inexpensive electronics like laptops, ovens, music systems, cameras, etc. The stores on the street open at 10 in the morning every day except Friday when it opens at 4 in the evening.

Dubai Gold Souk

You must not miss this place if you have an eye for gold. Here you will find a range of gold in the form of ornaments and jewelry on display. There are bigger stores like ARY, Alukkas, and Damas, and there are smaller ones too. It is located right in the commercial business center in Deira.

The world’s second-largest complex for shopping and entertainment, the mall located in the Downtown area, is a much-loved leisure destination in the Middle East. Standing tall next to Burj Khalifa, it is also the best place for high-street fashion shopping, the likes of Versace. Burberry, and more. It is also home to 1,000+ retailers under one roof.

Dubai Perfume Souk

If you love magical scents, head to the Perfume Souk at Sikkat Al Khali. From local ittar to incense powders, and branded scents, this place is everything about aromas, and fragrances. There are 100+ stalls, and as you pass each, you get to know more about bakhoor and oud and other details of traditional Arabian scents.

Ibn Battuta Mall

The entire mall is categorized into six separate country-themed parts. It is also the globe’s biggest themed mall located on Sheikh Zayed Road at Jebel Ali Village.

Karama Shopping Centre

This is the perfect place to shop for souvenirs and gift items for your friends and family before leaving the city. The place opens at 09:00 am except on Fridays when it opens at 03:00 pm.

Souk Ma Dinat Jumeirah

This Arabian bazaar in Jumeirah is a spice lover’s ultimate dream-come-true destination. From exotic spices to local jewelry pieces, slippers, and more, you can indulge in amazing shopping experiences selling in a traditional Middle-Eastern souk setup with stalls, ornate lanterns, carved woods, and more.

Souk Al Bahar

Also called the sailor’s market in Downtown Dubai, this waterfront promenade is a marketplace filled with innumerable shopping, dining, and entertainment options. There are 100+ shops, 22 cafes and restaurants, lounges, etc. It is the best place to buy carpets, authentic handicrafts, jewelry, etc.

Burj Al Arab

The sail-shaped iconic structure is one of the world’s most luxurious 7-star hotels. It stands on a manmade island with a private bridge connecting it to the mainland. The Burj Al Arab has a helipad rooftop, exquisite dining options, chauffeur-driven Rolls Royce, and more.

Burj Khalifa

It is the world’s tallest building with residential and office spaces. It has restaurants and hotels inside. For a visitor, there are a plethora of things to do at the Burj Khalifa . For a bird’s eye perspective of the cityscape, take the glass elevator up to the Observation Decks on the 124th and 125th floors. You can also enjoy the delicious gourmet spread at the At.mosphere on the 122nd floor. To feel the thrill, you can also unwind at the world’s tallest lounge covering floors 152 to 154.

Cayan Tower

This apartment building at Al Barsha Heights is a luxe place with unique architecture. Stop by to appreciate the twisted outer shape that resembles a helical.

Deira Clocktower

This is the city’s Clock Tower, believed to have been designed and created during the 1960s. It is located in Deira along the intersection of route D 89 and Umm Hurrair Road.

• Dubai Frame

Standing tall, about 150.24 meters, in Zabeel Park is the world’s largest frame, the Dubai Frame . It is a monument, a museum, and an observatory offering iconic glimpses of the old city and the newly-developed parts of the cosmopolitan. Not everyone has the guts to look down through the glass floor of the Observatory Deck on the top floor of the 50-storied architectural landmark!

Grand Bur Dubai Masjid

Bur Dubai is a place to visit to learn more about Arabic and Islamic culture. The mosque has the tallest minaret in the region. The building was initially built as a school for the study of the Quran.

Guru Nanak Darbar

While people from the Sikh community visit the Darbar for religious sentiments, people from other religions also visit the place as it is a key attraction in the city. There is a feast hall that can accommodate about 5,000 people for langar. There’s a function hall too with a capacity of 900 pax. The gurudwara is located in Jebel Ali.

Jumeirah Mosque

The white-stoned mosque is an architectural marvel in the city center. Built as per the Fatimid tradition, the Jumeirah Mosque is open to the general public on all days except Friday, even though visitors are not allowed inside during prayers. Stop by the mosque after sunset to enjoy the rare sight of the lit-up place.

Palm Jumeirah

An architectural marvel, Palm Jumeirah is a brilliant example of creativity. The manmade island is shaped like a palm tree and can be seen from the International Space Station (ISS). It is worth visiting this place once in your lifetime.

There are umpteen opportunities for tourists to unravel the beauty of this island. You can visit the Aquaventure Waterpark for waterslides and rides or relax on a private beach. Take a boat ride around the island’s coastline and partake in a skydiving experience with Skydive Dubai.

Saeed Al Maktoum House

This is one of the historical buildings in the Al Shindagha district on Al Khaleej Road. It was the residence of Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, the erstwhile ruler of the Emirates. The place has now been converted into a museum with artifacts, documents, photographs, furnishings, etc.

Sky View Hotel

In Downtown Dubai, one of the newest additions to Emaar Hospitality’s portfolio is the Sky View Hotel. This 50+ storied building has two towers sharing a curvilinear podium. The landmark point is that at the height of 220 meters, the towers are reunited through a sky bridge. It’s glass-walled with an infinity edge pool. There’s a glass-floored cantilevered Observation Deck offering an ultimate and uninterrupted view of the majestic city, the ocean, and the sky. There’s a restaurant and an open-air terrace. There’s a suspended glass tube that slides down, hurtling floor-to-floor – this is the ones who dare.

You may also like to read:

Dubai Fountain Show All About Burj Al Arab Best Tourist Spots in Dubai

Frequently Asked Questions

Which are the family-friendly places to visit in dubai.

The parks and waterparks are all family-friendly places in the city. Kids love the Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Ski Dubai, Global Village, and Wild Wadi Park.

Which are the top tourist attractions in Dubai?

The must-visit spots are the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, The Dubai Mall, and the Musical Fountain.

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Dubai global village.

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Zipline Dubai (Jebel Jais & Xline Dubai): Adventure, Price

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When people think of Dubai massive skyscrapers, shopping malls, and beaches may come to mind. Nevertheless, there is more to Dubai than what meets the eye in pictures. Dubai is chock-full of grand architecture, interesting theme parks, and fanciful experiences to uncover. It has a striking nightlife and restaurant scene that attracts the masses. Use this guide to learn about some of the most interesting things to do in the sparkling City of Gold. 

Go Atop the Burj Khalifa

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One of the main attractions for any tourist visiting Dubai is the Burj Khalifa , the tallest building globally. It amasses 160 floors and is 828 meters tall. While many visitors like to marvel at the dazzling skyscraper from below, you will be blown away to take the elevator to the 148th floor to view the stunning sights of the city. Also located on the 148th floor is the world’s highest restaurant, At.mosphere. Book ahead to The Lounge Burj Khalifa on the 152nd floor to reserve a spot at afternoon tea between 12:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Visit Burj Al Arab

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The sail-shaped Burj Al Arab is one of the most famous buildings in the world also. The hotel, located in Jumeirah, is one of a kind in its design, playing host to one of the most luxurious hotels in the region. If offers delicious dining at Scape Restaurant and Lounge, as well as masterful cocktails at both the Skyview Bar and Gold on 27. Gold on 27 is the center of opulence, with the interior design being flanked in gold and serving high-end innovative cocktails in the evenings.  

Play at Theme Parks

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Located right off of popular Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road is the 1.5 million square foot IMG Worlds of Adventure , the biggest indoor theme park globally. It features high-speed rollercoasters like Velociraptor in the Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure Zone, and 69 animatronic dinosaurs. The city is also home to the Dubai Parks and Resorts , which spans a huge 25 million square feet in mass. It is home to Motiongate Dubai, which includes 27 rides and attractions themed on famed Bollywood. Additionally, it includes the Riverland waterside district and Legoland .

Hang Out at Kite Beach

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Visitors can enjoy either laying on the beach lounging or fun-filled activities like beach volleyball, watersports, or even the action-packed inflatable assault course at sea on Kite Beach . It is home to a host of restaurants such as Chez Sushi, JJ Chicken, and even Lebanese cuisine at Kaakunada. Shopping fans can also enjoy taking a peek at local shops such as Anitas Swimwear , which has one of the biggest swimwear selections in Dubai, and Boutique Nomads.

Make a Splash at Wild Wadi

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Who wouldn’t enjoy cooling off at a water park in the desert? Wild Wadi offers 30 rides and attractions, such as the Jumeirah Sceirah tower, which has two 104-foot-tall slides that you can slide down at a speed of 50 miles per hour. It’s a great family-friendly adventure to enjoy for those who like action-packed rides or the slower-paced activities like the 360-meter long lazy river that flows through the park. 

Shop 'til You Drop at The Dubai Mall

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A trip to Dubai is incomplete without visiting the biggest mall in the world, the Dubai Mall . It is home to the Dubai Ice Rink and The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, which includes more than 300 sharks and other fish species, which can be seen for free from outside of the tank while passing by doing a shopping spree. There are also countless dining options like the Cheesecake Factory and a massive food court on the mall's bottom level. 

Zip Through the Sky on XLine

Explore Dubai from above on the XLine zip line. Those who seek adventure will have a blast zipping at speeds up to 50 miles per hour at an incline of 16 degrees! This ride is not for the faint at heart but an amazing experience for the adrenaline junkies who wish to see amazing views of the Dubai Marina and more. 

Experience Souk Madinat Jumeirah

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Feel like you’re stepping back in time while walking through Souk Madinat Jumeirah. It’s similar to a shopping experience in ancient Arabian days in extravagant Dubai. It is full of world-class restaurants, and traditional market-designed corridors full of tourist shops, antiques, and fabulous jewels to find like you’re on an expedition. It is also home to three luxurious hotels and bars to enjoy happy hour, including the Madinat Jumeirah collection of hotels. 

Marvel at the Dubai Fountain

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People travel from around the globe to gaze at the 900-foot-long Dubai Fountain , which shoots water into the air in harmony to various classical and pop songs. The fountain shows occur every 30 minutes in the afternoons and evenings. It’s a fantastic demonstration that locals and tourists alike come to enjoy year-round. It is located across from Souk Al Bahar and behind the Dubai Mall. 

Explore Global Village

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Dubai's Global Village is the perfect spot to visit for the explorers at heart, as it features themed shows, stalls for selling goods, and delicious food from more than 70 countries. It’s a spectacular global themed park that includes fun-filled attractions, presentations, and performances such as kids theater shows every weekend. 

Get Lost in Atlantis The Palm

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Located on the Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis The Palm is home to a host of fine dining restaurants such as Nobu , Hakkasan , and world-famous brunches such as Saturday brunch at White Beach. It also features Dubai’s Aquaventure Waterpark, where families and friends can slide down the Leap of Faith glass tunnel slide passing sharks or even swim with dolphins and feed stingrays. The decked-out Lost Chambers are also on-site, which is a massive aquarium that even has an area for those interested in doing yoga.

See the Dubai Frame

Another way to experience Dubai from above is by visiting the Dubai Frame . It encompasses two 492-foot-tall towers connected by a 305-foot-long glass bridge at the top. While atop of the Dubai Frame, visitors can get a glimpse of both old and new Dubai from an amazing vantage point. 

Discover Dubai Souks

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Outside of enjoying massive malls, Dubai souks are a perfect way to enjoy a bit of retail therapy in the city. Head down to the Dubai Creek in Deira to have a traditional shopping experience at one of the many souks lining both sides of the creek. Considering that you will be in the City of Gold, it’s only right to visit the Gold Souk , which offers hundreds of stalls featuring precious jewels, gold, diamonds, and more, or get lost in the textile souk which features a massive selection of colorful fabrics. 

Take a Walk Through La Mer

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The newly-opened La Mer is the perfect spot to enjoy a lazy beach day getaway or seaside surfing for the more adventurous wanderer. Located in Jumeirah, it offers more than 130 restaurants, shops, decadent cafes, a cinema, and even the Laguna Waterpark , which features a bar for those looking to enjoy a cool cocktail while enjoying the park. 

Take a Leap at Skydive Dubai

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A one of a kind experience to have in the city, Skydive Dubai is a great option for the thrill-seeking visitor. View the entire Palm Island from above while leaping out of a plane at speeds of 120 miles per hour. Now that will get your blood flowing! The experience is led by Tandem skydives, having an experienced instructor jump with you but of course, safety first. 

Taste Decadent Foods at a Dubai Brunch

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There is an array of fine-dining restaurants across the city of Dubai to experience a luxurious brunch experience. Dubai is home of the Friday brunch with spreads of international dishes to delight upon. From beef wellington at the world-famous Gordon Ramsey’s Hell’s Kitchen , to a spread of dim sum and pho at Sui Mui located in The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina , the choices are endless of cuisines to devour. The desert oasis Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa is also a fabulous choice for a family-friendly weekend brunch. 

Smell the Flowers at Dubai Miracle Garden

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The floral scent of millions of flowers is an experience to behold at the Dubai Miracle Garden . It is home to over 120 assortments of sunflowers, marigolds, and petunias. There are literally over 50 million blossom arrangements on display in this immaculate garden. It holds the Guinness World Record for the largest structure made out of flowers. A real life-sized Boeing A380 is decked out in 500,000 flowers. Other floral arrangements include a mini Burj Khalifa made of flowers, a floral operating clock, and the stunning Heart Passage. Miracle Garden is also home to the Dubai Butterfly Garden, housing 15,000 butterflies from over 26 species. 

Walk Through the Alleys of Al Fahidi Historical District

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Formerly known as Bastakia, Al Fahidi Historical District is an ancient quarter in Bur Dubai that makes you feel like you stepped back in time. It features a host of traditional houses, wind towers, museums, and galleries. There were plans of demolishing the historic neighborhood in the past, but in 2005, Dubai Municipality restored the area and declared it an iconic heritage site. In addition to guest houses and cafes, the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding is also located in the historic district. 

Have an Adventurous Ride on a Desert Safari

visual7 / Getty Images

Venture to the outskirts of the city for an adventure like no other on a desert safari. Marvel at tall red dunes in the Lahbab desert and enjoy dune bashing in a 4X4 SUV, the only way to explore the desert. This amazing experience can also be had in the Magrham desert as well. Desert safari rides usually last around an hour, and the best time to go is shortly before sunset so you can witness breathtaking sunset views, which are fantastic for photoshoots. Make sure to stop at a Bedouin camp along the way or camp overnight under the stars. Tour agencies such as Rayna Tours offer exciting desert safari excursions. 

Learn about Emirati Culture in Al Seef

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Al Seef convenes on the Bur Dubai side of the Dubai Creek neighborhood. The area is immersed in Emirati history, displaying the culture alongside the streets, but it also has a fusion of the contemporary side of Dubai. Tourists can enjoy shopping in the traditional souk located in the area and dining at one of an array of restaurants offering Arabic, Indian, and even American food. Take a trip aboard a yacht which sites in old Dubai, again a mix of old and new. The area also has several hotel options like Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton , and Canopy by Hilton Dubai Al Seef . 

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36 Best Places to Visit in Dubai: Tourist Places & Top Attractions

• Last Updated on September 4, 2023
• Anurag Kothari

Dubai is a city of wonders, offering something for everyone, be it families, couples, or solo travellers. With so much to see and explore, Dubai is a must-visit destination for every travel enthusiast. In this travel guide, we have compiled a comprehensive list of the 36 best places to visit in Dubai in 2023.

The list covers everything from the city’s most iconic attractions, like the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, to hidden gems and local favourites that you won’t find in most guidebooks.

We’ve also included recommendations for the best places to visit in Dubai with family, for free, at night, and for couples, so you can plan your trip according to your preferences. Also, you’ll get detailed information about each sightseeing tourist place like their prices, location and how to reach them.

So, explore the best of Dubai’s holiday destinations and famous tourist attractions in 2023 with this comprehensive travel guide.

36 Best Places to Visit in Dubai For 2023

1. burj khalifa.

Burj Khalifa needs no introduction when talking about Dubai sightseeing places. This landmark building in Dubai is on a list of places to visit for every traveller. Being the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa is a must-visit place to get a staggering bird-eye view of the city. Head straight to Observation decks on the 124th and 125th floor of the building, which offers the skyline of the city. It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that one shouldn’t miss when in Dubai.

• Address:  1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai 
• Average Price/Fees:  Starts from AED 169
• Timings:  10 am -12 am

Also Check: Restaurants in Dubai

2. Jumeirah Beach

Jumeirah Beach is another Dubai sightseeing place that you must visit during your Dubai trip. The place is suitable for every kind of traveller. Whether you are going for a honeymoon, a family vacation, or a bachelorette, Jumeirah Beach offers one of the best views of Dubai. Beach bums and sunset lovers, add this place to your list for your next Dubai trip.

Jumeirah Beach is one of the largest public beaches in Dubai. Further, it is an ideal place to spend the day sunbathing and lounging. You can also enjoy numerous water sports here, like doughnut boating, banana boating, and more. The beach is open for 24 hours and is accessible via taxi or public transit.

• Address:  Jumeirah District 
• Average Price/Fees:  No fees
• Timings:  Open 24 hours

Also Check : Festivals in Dubai

3. Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab, the most expensive and extravagant 7-star hotel in the world, is a must-visit Dubai sightseeing place. It is the most luxurious hotel in Dubai, with 24-carat gold embellished interiors and world-class facilities.

Not just the interior, the sail-shaped exterior of Burj Al Arab makes it to the list of Dubai sights to see, which stands tall against the pristine blue waters. The place is well-lit in the evening, offering a myriad of experiences like a choreographed lighting show. The building has many high-end restaurants where you can enjoy a traditional Arabian meal.

• Address:  Jumeirah St – Umm Suqeim 3 
• Average Price/Fees:  Not available for sightseeing

Also Check: Hotels in Palm Jumeirah

4. Dubai Mall

The place is one of the popular Dubai sightseeing places and is known for shopping. If you want to shop for souvenirs, then add this place to your Dubai sightseeing list of places to visit in Dubai. Moreover, it is the best place for shopaholics who want to be spoiled by endless choices, with over 1200 stores 120 restaurants, and cafes at the mall.

Dubai Mall also provides entry to Burj Khalifa and has the famous Dubai Aquarium. The mall has various entertainment options available at the mall, like an ice skating rink, multiplex, and a gaming zone. The place is ideal to go with friends, family, kids, and couples.

• Address:  Downtown Dubai 
• Timings:  10 am – 1 pm 

Also Check : Hotels in Palm Jumeirah

5. Museum Of the Future

Another in the list of Dubai sightseeing places is the Museum of the Future which should be on every traveller’s list. It is one of the unique and best places to go in Dubai, which is dedicated to the possibilities of the future. This new-age museum brought a unique concept that shows how the world will be in the year 2071.

The admirable exterior design of the museum has walls engraved with stances from Arabic poetry, whereas inside, you can take a Journey to the Future. Museum of the Future is one of the places on the Dubai sightseeing list. Here, you can explore Amazonian forests, learn about climate change effects on the Human body, and more in Vault of Life and DNA Library.

• Address:  Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre 2, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
• Average Price/Fees:  AED   149
• Timings : 10 am to 6 pm

Also Check : Dubai Tourism

6. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

A must-visit amongst Dubai sightseeing places, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo , will give you a chance to witness tons of marine species. It is the world’s largest suspended aquarium with an underwater zoo, offering many fun activities to do. One of the famous Dubai sightseeing places, it offers various activities such as cage snorkelling, shark diving, glass-bottom tours, and more. You can even witness endangered marine species like the tiger shark preserved here in enormous tanks. You can also see the world’s biggest reptile, King Croc, weighing 750 kg.

• Address:  Dubai Mall
• Average Price/Fees:  Starts from AED 199 
• Timings:  10 am-10 pm, from Monday to Thursday, till 12 am on rest days. 

Also Check : Dubai Travel Requirements

7. Dubai Fountain

One of the best Dubai sights to see, Dubai Fountain conducts the tallest fountain show in the world. Moreover, it is well-choreographed in the entire world. It is one of the unique places to visit in Dubai, where you can see the fountain going up to 900 feet, which you don’t get to see everywhere.

Dubai Fountain offers one of the best views of Dubai and Burj Lake and attracts tourists across the year. The sweet amalgamation of rhythmic music, the dance of water, and nightlife will add a marvellous experience to your Dubai trip. The area has 25 colour projectors and 6600 super lights, with songs making it an unforgettable experience.

• Address:  Burj Khalifa
• Average Price/Fees:  No fees 
• Timings:  Every 30 mins from 6 pm daily 

Also Check : Street Food in Dubai

8. Dubai Marina

Next on the list of Dubai sightseeing places is Dubai Marina. Take a stroll along Dubai Marina, which has become one of the most exotic places to visit in Dubai over the years. With the beautiful landscapes, fantastic cafes and eateries along the Marina, dinner cruise on the Dhow Boat, and deep sea fishing, Dubai Marina has a lot to offer to tourists.

You can also witness the best views of Dubai’s illuminated skyline from here while cruising at Arabian Gulf.

• Address:  Close to Interchange 5 of Sheikh Zayed Road
• Average Price/Fees:  No entry fee 
• Timings:  24 hours

Also Check: Things To Buy In Dubai

9. Dubai Miracle Garden

If you love vibrant flowers and love how beautiful they can take the shape of anything, then Dubai Miracle Garden is the place for you. If your Dubai tour itinerary does not include this Dubai sightseeing place in the list, then alter it.

The lush green, vibrant flowers and unique shapes on display will leave you awestruck. Dubai Miracle Garden is the biggest flower garden in Dubai, where you can witness distinctive models of popular Dubai sightseeing places made from natural elements. There are over 150 million flowers here.

• Address:  Dubailand, Al Barsha, South 3 Dubai
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 55 
• Timings:  9 am-9 pm on weekdays, till 11 pm on weekends 

Also Check: Shopping In Dubai

10. Dubai Frame

The latest addition to the Dubai sightseeing list is the Dubai Frame which is another architectural marvel of the city. Dubai Frame is 150 meters in height and 93 meters wide and displays the past and future of this city using the latest techs, animations, and graphics.

Getting a memorable photo clicked in front of a Dubai frame is one of the mandatory pictures of the Dubai trip and a thing to do in Dubai. There is also a skywalk offering magnificent views of Old Dubai and New Dubai.

• Address:  Zabeel Park
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 50 
• Timings:  9 am-9 pm 

Also Check : Photography Places in Dubai

11. Dubai Garden Glow

Dubai Garden Glow is one of the special theme parks and a famous Dubai sightseeing place that must be on the list of every traveller. Here, you can witness how technology and art come together to create unique things that glow in the dark.

The various art installations across the park, glow park, magic park, art park, and dinosaur park are some of the highlights of Garden Glow. The dinosaur park is the largest outdoor-themed park in Dubai where you can learn about dinosaurs and their evolution.

• Address:  Zabeel Park, Gate No- 6 & 7 Area – B 
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 70
• Timings:  5 pm-10 pm

Also Check: Skydiving in Dubai

12. Deira Souks

We know Dubai is known for its rich culture, luxury, and Gold. When travelling to Dubai, paying a visit to Deira Souks is mandatory. Deira Souks is a place where you will find gold everywhere. It is heaven for shopaholics and a place for unlimited shopping. Also, you can witness the essence of business culture in Dubai. Deira Souks is a place where you can shop til you drop.

• Address:  Deira – Al Sabkha
• Timings:  10 am-10 pm 

Also Check : Dubai Food

13. Ferrari World

Although it is located in Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World, along with Warner Bros, is on our list of Dubai sightseeing places for all the right reasons. Ferrari World is a Ferrari-themed based park in Abu Dhabi.

It allows you to get behind the wheel of a Ferrari on F1 tracks. Also, you can drive a Ferrari across the park, ride on the fastest roller coaster ride in the world, experience the F1 race track with the F1 simulator, know about the making of Ferrari, and a lot more in Ferrari World. The place is for travellers of every kind and age, from 08 to 80.

• Address:  Yas Island – Abu Dhabi, UAE
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 360
• Timings:  12 pm-8 pm 

14. Dubai Dolphinarium

Who doesn’t love watching Dolphins showing their talents and doing tricks? Dubai Dolphinarium is one of the famous Dubai sightseeing places and is considered among the best amusement parks, that includes coral reef aquariums and fish farms.

The place is more than a tourist place in Dubai; it was constructed to educate people about the conservation of dolphins across the world. You can enjoy dolphins and fur seals’ lively performance, play with them, feed them, and even swim with them under supervision.

• Address:  Riyadh Street, Inside the Creek Park Gate 1 – Dubai Dolphinarium Building – Umm Hurair 2 
• Average Price/Fees:  Starts at 75 AED/per person
• Timings:  10 am – 7.30 pm 

15. Desert Safari

Dubai sightseeing places list is never-ending, and so is the list of things to do. Talking about Dubai and not mentioning Desert Safari would be a crime. With incredible Dubai sights to see, desert safari offers a unique and unforgettable experience. Exploring the desert is something that will offer the best views of Dubai. Moreover, it is a thing you just cannot miss. Check out everything about Desert Safari Dubai , in our detailed guide.

• Address:  Al Awir Desert, Liwa Desert, Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
• Al Lahbab Desert, Al Faya Desert
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 35 to 275 AED/person
• Timings:  8 am-11 pm

16. Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark

The Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark on Dubai’s Palm Island is among the largest water parks in the world and is among the best places to visit in Dubai with family. The park offers exhilarating water rides, such as the Tower of Poseidon and the Leap of Faith, the Shark Safari, and a private beach.

In addition to swimming with dolphins, visitors may enjoy a range of food options. You can take a taxi or book a cab to reach the waterpark. Catch the Palm Jumeirah monorail, which will take you to the Atlantis Aquaventure station. Check out the list of the 6 best water parks in Dubai .

• Address:  Atlantis The Palm – Crescent Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
• Average Price/Fees:  Pricing starts at AED 299
• Timings:  Mon-Sun 9.30 am to 6 pm

17. Palm Island in Dubai

Among the best places to visit in Dubai is Palm Island in Dubai. Palm Island is an artificial island located off Dubai’s coast. The island has a range of luxury hotels, restaurants, and retail complexes designed like a palm tree. Tourists may take in breathtaking views of the cityscape and Arabian Gulf. 

This Dubai island hosts the finest luxury resorts, such as Atlantis, The Palm, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, FIVE Palm Jumeirah Hotel, One&Only The Palm, and many others. Additionally, there are also excellent alternatives for fine dining. Reaching Palm Island is easy with a highway system, tunnels, and public transportation choices, including the Palm Monorail.

• Address:  Palm Jumeirah
• Average Price/Fees:  No pricing

18. Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek is an inlet of seawater that divides the city in two. On a traditional boat called an abra, tourists may cross the creek and explore the old city of Dubai. The region has typical souks (markets), ancient structures, and museums. By the creek, visitors may also enjoy food options.  Moreover, to get the most out of this location, you should visit early or late in the evening.

In addition, don’t pass up the chance to take dinner at a Dhow Cruise on Dubai Creek.

Entrance to Dubai Creek is free; however, you must pay charges to participate in some activities or gain special access to specific attractions. Also, if you are looking for places to visit in Dubai for couples, head to Dubai Creek during the evening for a romantic stroll and Dhow cruise experience. 

Both public transit services and cabs can help you reach Dubai Creek. 

• Address:  Dubai Creek 
• Average Price/Fees:  Free

19. Dubai Museum

Among Dubai’s famous places is the Dubai Museum. The Dubai Museum is the oldest structure in the city, situated in the Al Fahidi Fort, and a must-see for a feel of ancient Dubai. Before being refurbished under the rule of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, this 1787-built fort served as the monarch’s base, a fortified home, and a weapons armoury and prison.

• Address:  Al Fahidi St., Bur Dubai, Opposite Grand Mosque, Dubai
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 1 for children (under six years); AED 3 for adults 
• Timings:  Temporarily closed.

20. La Mer Beach

La Mer Dubai beach is located in the Jumeirah 1 neighbourhood and spans along the entire coastline with a breathtaking view of the Arabian Gulf and the cityscape of Dubai. If you intend to spend the day relaxing, walk to the La Mer beach and bask in the sun while laying out on the golden sands or swinging in a hammock.

The beachfront also features the Laguna Waterpark, which is suitable for both children and adults. With all of its artificial waves and water attractions, the La Mer Dubai Waterpark promises plenty of excitement.

• Address:  Jumeirah 1 region
• Average Price/Fees:  No entry fees
• Timings:  Sun-Thurs 10 am – 10 pm, Fri-Sat 10 am – 12 pm

21. Atlantis Palm Hotel

The Atlantis Palm Hotel is a luxurious hotel on Dubai’s Palm Island. This 5-star hotel in Dubai offers several dining options, a private beach, and the Aquaventure Waterpark. Also, visitors may explore the Lost Chambers Aquarium, which houses over a hundred thousand aquatic species. The Atlantis also features an underwater hotel in Dubai that will give you the chance to experience the aquatic life.

• Address:  Crescent Rd – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
• Average Price/Fees:  The hotel’s entrance fee depends on availability, and you also need to pay Aquaventure Waterpark fees starting at AED 299.
• Timings:  24 Hours

22. Global Village 

Dubai’s Global Village is a cultural and entertainment attraction. The attraction comprises pavilions from several nations that exhibit their culture, cuisine, and merchandise. A range of entertainment acts, comprising concerts and street performances, are also available to visitors. Global Village is accessible via taxi or public transit from October to April. Moreover, it is among the places to visit in Dubai at night.

• Address:  Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road Dubai
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 18 per person
• Timings:  Sun-Wed; 4 pm to midnight; Thurs – Sat; 4 pm to 1 am.

23. IMG Worlds of Adventure

Among the places to visit in Dubai is the IMG Worlds of Adventure. Moreover, this is Dubai’s largest indoor amusement park, with over 22 rides and attractions based on major film brands such as Marvel, Cartoon Network, and The Lost Valley. The park is divided into five main themed zones and provides a variety of activities for guests of all ages. Check this detailed article to know the 20 best adventures in Dubai you should try during your vacation.

Also, you may sample cuisines from different regions of the world in the themed restaurants of this top Dubai destination. Given its location on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, you may take a cab or drive to get here.

• Address:   E311, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, City of Arabia – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 345
• Timings:  Mon-Sun 12 pm – 10 pm

24. Bollywood Parks Dubai

As its name indicates, this theme park in Dubai is specialized in Bollywood and highlights the rich culture, music, and films of India’s Hindi film industry. In addition, it is the world’s first theme park dedicated only to the Bollywood film business, spanning an expansive 1.7 million square feet. The park has six zones and features a variety of indoor and outdoor activities, including rides, restaurants, and live performances.

• Address:  Bollywood Parks™ Dubai – Sheikh Zayed Road – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 330
• Timings:  Mon-Sun 2–10 pm

25. Al Fahidi Quarter

Among the Dubai tourist places is the Al Fahidi Quarter. It is among the oldest districts in Dubai and is notable for its traditional architecture and cultural history. Explore the small streets and alleyways, the old Al Fahidi Fort, and tour the art galleries and museums. In addition, travellers must carefully arrange their trip to Al Bastakiya. 

As it is a famous Dubai attraction, it appears overcrowded during the high season. The Al Fahidi Historic Neighborhood is relatively accessible, with ample parking choices in the adjoining Al Seef neighbourhood. Sharaf DG Metro Station is only 700 meters away, while Fahidi, Bastakia, and Heritage Village bus stations are even closer.

• Address:  Al Fahidi Street in Bur Dubai
• Timings:  9.00 am and 6.00 pm, every day. 

26. Kite Beach 

Among the places to visit in Dubai for free is Kite Beach. This beautiful public beach in Dubai is renowned for its soft white sand and crystal-clear seas. Kitesurfing, beach volleyball, and paddleboarding are just a few activities available to visitors. The beach also features several restaurants and cafés serving a variety of cuisines. Moreover, the beach also offers a magnificent view of the Burj-Al-Arab.

In addition to kite surfing, activities are offered here, like beach volleyball, kayaking, beach tennis, soap football, etc. The beachfront bustles on Fridays and Saturdays with a seaside marketplace that sells art and craft products, souvenirs, etc.

• Address:  1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard
• Timings:  24 hours every day 

27. Dubai Opera

Your journey to Dubai would be incomplete without visiting Dubai Opera, another of Dubai’s top attractions. Dubai Opera, located in Downtown Dubai, is Dubai’s cultural and artistic epicentre and the shining gem of The Opera District.

On the stage of the Dubai Opera is an astounding collection of world-class talent. In addition to the musical show, artistic dance, and traditional music performances and preparations, Dubai Opera will have melodic theatre, form performances, jazz, drama, family performances, and a vast array of live entertainment. Its remarkable 2000-seat, multi-arrangement theatre sets it apart from others.

You may take the metro to the Burj Khalifa/ Dubai Mall stop to reach Dubai Opera. Take the F13 bus towards the Burj Khalifa and walk for approximately 10 minutes to reach your location.

• Address:  Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid, Near Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai 
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 150
• Timings:  10 am – 9 pm

28. Hatta Heritage Village

Among the places to visit in Dubai for free is the Hatta Heritage Village. This restored mountain town in Dubai’s Hatta district highlights the traditional way of life and heritage of the United Arab Emirates’ highland regions. 

Visitors may tour the numerous structures, observe demonstrations of traditional crafts, and discover the region’s culture and past. Also, visit the 1896-built central Hatta Fort, one of the UAE’s most prominent architectural landmarks.

• Address:  Al Hajar Mountains, Dubai
• Timings:  Sat – Thurs

29. Dubai Butterfly Garden

Among the best Dubai sightseeing places is the Dubai Butterfly Garden. The Butterfly Garden is among the world’s largest indoor gardens and houses over 15,000 butterflies of 50 species. Visitors may explore the indoor and outdoor displays and learn about the many phases of a butterfly’s life cycle.

Reach here by public transport or by booking a cab. 

• Address:  Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand Area, Beside Dubai Miracle Garden
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 55
• Timings:  Mon-Sun, 9 am – 6 pm

30. Kidzania Dubai

KidZania is a 7,000-square-meter replica of a genuine city designed to teach children ages 4 to 16 real-world skills via role-playing and more than 80 realistic activities. It equips a youngster with management skills, teamwork, uniqueness, and community skills not taught in school.

KidZania, a global indoor educational theme park for children, is located on the second level of the Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai. The theme park completely simulates the infrastructure of an actual city. 

• Address:  The Dubai Mall
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 195 for children aged 4-16 years
• Timings:  Mon-Sun, 10 am-10 pm

31. The Mall Of Emirates

The Mall of the Emirates provides a vast array of shopping, eating, indoor skiing, and cinematic experiences. It has over 630 retailers, including upscale apparel companies, eateries, and a movie theatre. In addition, Ski Dubai, an indoor Dubai resort , is also located here.

• Address:  Sheikh Zayed Road – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
• Average Price/Fees:  No entrance fee.
• Timings:  Mon-Thur, 10 am-11 pm, Fri-Sun 10 am-12 pm

32. The Green Planet

Among the best places in Dubai, The Green Planet is Dubai’s only tropical rainforest. This verdant paradise is a haven for unusual flora and fauna, with over 3,000 types of plants, animals, and birds. It is the ideal location for a family adventure or a school trip and even hosts entertaining activities such as a picnic breakfast, swimming alongside piranhas, or a day spent as a zookeeper.

The Green Planet introduces Dubai to another planet inside its glass dome, which is all sustainably sourced, in an effort to educate tourists about the vital role the tropical forest serves in the survival of Earth.

The Green Planet Dubai is situated between Al Wasl Road and Safa Road, near the famed City Walk sector. Hence, it is easily accessible via car, taxi, or bus. The following bus routes stop nearby: 12, 15, 28, 81, 93, C14, and F55A.

• Address:  City Walk – Al Wasl – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 160. Book tickets only to get discounts. 
• Timings:  Sun-Sat, 10 am – 6 pm

33. Jumeirah Mosque

The Jumeirah Mosque, among the most recognisable monuments in Dubai, welcomes people of all religions to appreciate the surroundings and discover Islam and the native culture.

The mosque can accommodate over 1,200 worshippers and was constructed completely of white stone in the medieval Fatimid style, featuring twin minarets framing a massive central dome.

The Jumeirah Mosque offers guided tours. Under its Open Doors, Open Minds policy, the mosque encourages people of all religions to participate in the tour. Further, guided tours take place six days each week, beginning at 10 am and lasting for a duration of 75 minutes. You can book a taxi to reach the destination. 

• Address:  Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1, Dubai
• Average Price/Fees:  AED 35
• Timings:  Tours are conducted from 10 am to 2 pm, except Fridays. Registration begins 30 mins before starting. 

34. Ibn Battuta Mall

Ibn Battuta Mall is Dubai’s largest themed retail mall with captivating interiors, construction, and design.

The Ibn Battuta Mall, constructed in remembrance of the Moroccan scholar Ibn Battuta, noted for his extensive travels and knowledge, features six themes devoted to the explorer’s life and journeys. It is among the top places to visit in Dubai. Further, the Mall comprises 270 retailers, 50 restaurants, children’s play areas, luxury hotels, a 21-screen movie theatre, and various more points of interest.

The nearest metro station is Ibn Battuta Metro Station. Also, you can reach the mall via bus or take a taxi.

• Address:  Sheikh Zayed Rd – Jebel Ali Village – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
• Average Price/Fees:  No fees. Pay for the activities you partake in. 
• Timings:  Sun-Thurs 10 am–10 pm; Fri-Sat 10 am- 12 pm 

35. Guru Nanak Darbar

Since 2012, the Guru Nanak Darbar temple has served as the religious and cultural centre for the Sikh people of Dubai. 

This stunning architectural structure combines modern and traditional aspects. It is not only visually beautiful, but it represents the unification of peace, consolation, and optimism. Guru Nanak Darbar is a multi-story structure encompassed by a 54-meter Parikarma pathway.

You can reach Guru Nanak Darbar using a taxi. 

• Address:  3806 Sheikh Zayed Road – Jebel Ali Village – Dubai 
• Average Price/Fees:  No fees. 
• Timings:  Mon-Sun 4:30 am–8:30 pm

36. Legoland Water Park

LEGOLAND Water Park is the first water park in the region exclusively built for children ages 2 to 12 and their families. Indulge in exhilarating activities in a 3 million square foot space separated into six spectacular zones: The LEGO City, Kingdoms, Imagination, Miniland, and Factory. Spend the day building and personalizing your own boats and rafts using big, squishy LEGO® bricks.

• Address:  Parks & Resorts – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
• Average Price/Fees:  Starts at AED 330
• Timings:  Mon-Fri 10 am – 6 pm, Sat-Sun 10 am – 7 pm

Best Places To Visit in Dubai with Family in 2023 

A few of the best places to visit in Dubai with family are as follows:

• Burj Khalifa
• Dubai Fountain
• Aquaventure Waterpark
• Dubai Miracle Garden
• Dubai Creek
• Dubai Museum
• Global Village
• Dubai Parks and Resorts

Places to Visit in Dubai at Night 

A few of the places to visit in Dubai during the night are as follows:

• Dubai Garden Glow
• Dubai Creek 
• IMG Worlds of Adventure
• Dubai Marina

Explore more about the nightlife in Dubai and the best nightclubs for party lovers.

10 Luxurious Hotels & Restaurants in Dubai You Must Try

A few of the ten luxurious Hotels & Restaurants in Dubai are as follows:

• Armani Hotel Dubai
• Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
• One&Only The Palm, Dubai
• Atlantis, The Palm
• Mandarin Oriental Jumeira, Dubai
• Bulgari Resort Dubai
• Jumeirah Beach Hotel
• Raffles Dubai 
• Palazzo Versace Dubai
• Burj Al Arab

You can also check the best 4-star hotels in Dubai for an affordable and luxurious stay.

10 Famous Shopping Places in Dubai for Shopaholics

Below are a few shopping destinations to consider. These shopping destinations offer a vast array of items and experiences, from expensive brands to local souvenirs.

• The Dubai Mall
• Mall of the Emirates
• Ibn Battuta Mall
• Dubai Festival City Mall
• Mercato Shopping Mall
• Dubai Marina Mall
• Souk Madinat Jumeirah
• Meena Bazaar Dubai

Dubai is one of the great places for shopping lovers, especially during the Dubai shopping festival . Here, you’ll get massive discounts and deals on every product.

6 Nightclubs in Dubai for Partying 

A few of the Nightclubs in Dubai for partying are as follows:

• White Dubai
• Armani/Privé
• Billionaire Mansion Nightclub
• Nasimi – Atlantis The Palm

Beaches in Dubai to Surf & Swim

A few of the best beaches in Dubai to surf and swim are as follows:

• Sunset Beach
• Jumeirah Beach
• Black Palace Beach
• The Beach at JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence)
• Al Mamzar Beach Park
• La Mer Beach
• Nikki Beach Dubai
• Umm Suqeim Beach
• Ghantoot Beach

Historical Places in Dubai You Should Visit

A few of the historical places to visit in Dubai are as follows:

• Al Fahidi Historical District
• Bastakiya Quarter
• Jumeirah Mosque
• Dubai Heritage Village
• Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House
• Alserkal Avenue

10 Most Popular Things To Do in Dubai 

Check out the 10 most popular  things to do in Dubai :

• Visit the Burj Khalifa : The tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa is a must-visit destination. You can take an elevator to the top for breathtaking views of the city.
• Dubai Mall : One of the largest malls in the world, Dubai Mall is a shopper’s paradise with over 1,200 retail stores and many dining options.
• Desert Safari : Explore the stunning Arabian Desert with a thrilling desert safari, which includes dune bashing, camel riding, and traditional Bedouin-style entertainment.
• Dubai Fountain : Located outside the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountain is a stunning water and light show that takes place every evening.
• Ski Dubai : If you’re looking for a break from the heat, head to Ski Dubai, an indoor ski slope with real snow and a variety of winter sports.
• Dubai Miracle Garden : This beautiful garden is home to over 45 million flowers and is the largest flower garden in the world.
• Palm Jumeirah : This man-made island is home to luxurious hotels, restaurants, and beautiful beaches.
• Dubai Marina : Enjoy a walk along the stunning Dubai Marina and take in the beautiful views of the city skyline.
• Dubai Museum : Learn about the history and culture of Dubai at the Dubai Museum, located in the historic Al Fahidi Fort.
• Gold Souk : Shop for gold jewellery and other treasures at the Gold Souk, a traditional marketplace with over 300 shops.

New couples, you are not left alone. Check out the best places to visit and things to do on a honeymoon in Dubai .

7 Useful Advice for Exploring Top Destinations in Dubai 

• Dress appropriately : Dubai is a conservative city, thus it is essential to dress accordingly. Shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting public areas and religious locations. Swimwear should only be worn at the beach or pool.
• Respect Dubai’s Culture : Dubai has a prominent Islamic culture; therefore, it is vital to be informed of local customs and etiquette. During Ramadan, for instance, eating and drinking in public during daytime hours is prohibited.
• Don’t carry any forbidden items : A number of products, including narcotics, guns, and specific pharmaceuticals, are prohibited in Dubai. Before travelling, it is essential to research the relevant requirements to prevent issues at customs.
• Travel during the  off-season: If you want to experience Dubai on a cheap, try going during the off-season (April-May or September-October). The weather is still warm and the visitors are fewer, which can result in cheaper airfare and lodging.
• Use public transportation : Use the modern public transit system in Dubai, which comprises buses, trains, and taxis. Taking public transit to tour a city may be an economical and convenient option.
• Apply for a  Visa: Travelers from India need to obtain a tourist Visa to visit Dubai. The Visa application is a straightforward process and you can apply online or take the help of a travel agency. 
• Plan your itinerary well : Dubai is home to several world-renowned attractions. Study these destinations and plan your itinerary appropriately.

Tips to Get Around Dubai 

Getting around in Dubai is easy. A few of the ways you can get around Dubai are as follows:

• Metro : Dubai’s metro is among the most popular ways of transportation, with over 40 stations and two lines. The trains are reliable, fast, contemporary, and clean, and the rates are reasonable.
• Taxis : Taxis are abundant in Dubai and provide a handy means of transportation. Taxis are metered and have fair prices.
• Buses : The bus network in Dubai is large covering the majority of the city. The buses are air-conditioned and have reasonable prices.

Navigating in Dubai

The city of Dubai is well-organized, making navigation relatively simple. The metro and bus systems are user-friendly, with clear station signs and maps. Taxis are also easily accessible, and the majority of drivers know English. In addition, various mobile applications, like Google Maps, Uber, and Careem, can aid with city navigation. It is recommended to take a map or a smartphone with a map application, especially if you are unfamiliar with the city.

What Types of Clothes to Wear in Dubai? 

The majority of the time in Dubai is hot and humid, thus it is advisable to wear lightweight, breathable clothing made from fibres like cotton or linen.

In public, women should dress appropriately and avoid revealing attire, shorts, and tank tops. Both men and women must wear long trousers or skirts and cover their shoulders when attending mosques or other religious institutions.

Further, It is also crucial to understand that Dubai is a Muslim country, and tourists should dress accordingly and respect local customs. Generally, it is ideal to choose clothing that is comfy, modest, and covers the body without being excessively exposed.

Check out our Dubai travel guide to prepare everything for your Dubai vacation and enjoy it to the fullest.

Book Your Dubai Tour Package From Trusted Tour Operator Roaming Routes 

Roaming Routes is a reputable travel agency that provides amazing Dubai tour packages . This package is ideal for individuals who like to enjoy the splendour and opulence of this amazing city. The activities included in Roaming Routes’ Dubai vacation package are certain to make your trip unforgettable. You will get the opportunity to tour the city’s prominent sites and take part in a few exciting and thrilling activities. Roaming Routes handles every aspect of your vacation, including accommodation, transportation, and excursions, to ensure that you have a stress-free and enjoyable experience.

Roaming Routes offers packages for as low as Rs 38,500. So book your Dubai trip with us or get in touch with us to know more details. You can also check out our Dubai honeymoon packages which are among the best sellers.

Frequently Asked Questions

You need to spend at least 4-5 to see and visit the top sights in Dubai.

The popular romantic places in Dubai for couples are Pai Thai, Water Park, Hot Air Balloon, Pierchic and Dubai Safari.

All types of cuisines and foods are available in Dubai. Some famous dishes are Luqaimat, Machboos, Meat Biryani etc.

The best places to visit in Dubai with your family are Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, KidZania Dubai and Burj Khalifa.

Yes, it is safe to travel to Dubai.

Yes, even Ramadan is the best time to visit Dubai for shopping lovers. With the long hours of many stores and shopping centres, you have extra time to choose the right Festive gift. Throughout Ramadan, the greater part of tourist sites will be accessible.

If you are planning a budget trip, you can make a trip under Rs 50,000 with Roaming Routes.

The most visited places in Dubai are the Dubai Mall, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah and Desert Safari.

Yes, Dubai is good for shopping. Here customers can purchase items at a comparatively low price and can also bargain.

November to February is considered the best time to visit Dubai as the weather is pleasant during these months.

You can head to Atlantis Adventure Park, Ski Dubai, Jumeirah Public Beach, Dubai Miracle Garden, etc, with your kids.

Other Dubai Packages

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We believe that the best holidays are those that are tailored to your dreams and your budget. Our team of specialists led by Anurag Kothari has over 10 years experience in creating (comfortable) custom and holiday packages for families, couples, professional

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30 Must-See Tourist Places in Dubai You Absolutely Cannot Miss in 2024

Dubai, the golden gem of the UAE, is renowned for its stunning architecture, luxurious lifestyle, and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a history buff, or a leisure traveler, Dubai has something for everyone. Here's a comprehensive guide to Dubai's top 30 must-see tourist places, complete with tips, tricks, fees, and essential information for each location.

Let's Dive into 30 Must-See Tourist Places in Dubai You Absolutely Cannot Miss!

• Burj Khalifa
• The Dubai Fountain
• Palm Jumeirah
• Dubai Marina
• Jumeirah Beach
• Burj Al Arab
• Dubai Creek
• The Dubai Frame
• Global Village
• Miracle Garden
• Dubai Opera
• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
• The Green Planet
• Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
• Souk Madinat Jumeirah
• Atlantis The Palm
• Bluewaters Island
• Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
• IMG Worlds of Adventure
• Museum of the Future
• Dubai Parks and Resorts
• Alserkal Avenue
• Dubai Gold Souk
• Al Mamzar Beach Park
• Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
• Dubai Butterfly Garden

Top FAQs About Dubai

Uae esim: stay connected with airalo, discover a comprehensive guide to dubai's 30 must-see places.

Enjoy an unparalleled experience of Dubai, the magnificent city. Whether you're craving excitement, tranquility, or cultural immersion, Dubai has that and more. Here is the comprehensive guide to the top 30 attractions in Dubai that you cannot afford to miss.

1. Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors. For the best experience, book your tickets online in advance to avoid long queues, and visit at sunset for the most spectacular views. Tickets start from AED 149, giving you access to unparalleled vistas and interactive exhibits.

2. Dubai Mall

Adjacent to the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall is a shopping haven with over 1,200 retail stores, an indoor theme park, an ice rink, and the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. To navigate this massive mall efficiently, download the mall's app for a map and store locator. Allocate at least half a day to explore fully. While entry is free, individual attractions within the mall have separate fees.

3. The Dubai Fountain

Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain is the world's largest choreographed fountain system, offering spectacular water and light shows daily. Make sure to check the officially announced times before you go. Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot. Watching the fountain show is free, making it an accessible attraction for all visitors.

4. Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah, the iconic man-made island, is home to luxury hotels, pristine beaches, and high-end restaurants. Take a monorail ride for the island's best views, and visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium and Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis. Monorail tickets start from AED 20, and prices for individual attractions vary.

5. Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina boasts a stunning waterfront with yachts, high-rise buildings, and a lively promenade with cafes, shops, and restaurants. For a unique view of the marina, take a dhow cruise, especially at night when the area is beautifully lit. Dhow cruises offer a memorable experience of this modern district. Their prices vary, so always confirm the price before booking. 

6. Jumeirah Beach

Jumeirah Beach offers white sand and clear water, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and water sports. Visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid the midday heat, and remember to bring sunscreen and plenty of water. Access to the beach is free, though some areas may charge for sunbeds and umbrellas.

7. Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab, often dubbed the world's most luxurious hotel, is an architectural marvel. While staying here is expensive, dining at one of its restaurants offers a glimpse of its luxury. Reserve a table for afternoon tea at the Skyview Bar, a popular choice, with prices starting from AED 635.

8. Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek, the city's historic heart, offers a blend of traditional and modern attractions. For just AED 1, you can experience the waterway on an abarra (traditional boat) ride or explore the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort to better understand the city's history.

9. The Dubai Frame

Standing at 150 meters high, the Dubai Frame provides stunning views of both old and new Dubai. The glass walkway is a thrilling experience. Tickets cost about AED 50 for adults and around AED 20 for children, and it's best to visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds.

10. Global Village

Global Village is a seasonal cultural extravaganza that showcases pavilions from over 90 countries, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment. Entry tickets are usually around AED 15, and visiting in the evening is recommended to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere and live performances.

11. Dubai Miracle Garden

The Dubai Miracle Garden is a floral wonderland with over 150 million flowers arranged in stunning patterns. Entry costs around AED 55 for adults and about AED 40 for children. Visit during the cooler months, as the garden is closed in the summer.

12. Ski Dubai

Located inside the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai offers a unique indoor skiing experience. Tickets start at AED 200, including equipment rental. For an enhanced experience, try the snow park activities.

13. Dubai Opera

Dubai Opera hosts a variety of performances, from opera and ballet to concerts and theater. Check the schedule and book tickets in advance. Prices vary depending on the show, with many starting around AED 250.

14. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

This aquarium is located in the Dubai Mall and is home to thousands of aquatic animals. Tickets start from AED 120; for an in-depth experience, you can book a behind-the-scenes tour.

15. The Green Planet

An indoor tropical rainforest, The Green Planet offers an immersive experience with over 3,000 plants and animals. Tickets are around AED 120 for adults and about AED 95 for children. Visit early to avoid crowds and enjoy interactive sessions.

16. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Explore the narrow lanes and traditional buildings of Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Most attractions here, including the Dubai Museum, are free or have a nominal entry fee. Visit during the cooler parts of the day for a comfortable experience.

17. Souk Madinat Jumeirah

This modern take on a traditional Arabian market offers shopping, dining, and stunning views of the Burj Al Arab. Entry is free, but prices for goods and services vary. Evening visits are ideal to experience the souk's vibrant nightlife.

18. Atlantis The Palm

This iconic hotel on Palm Jumeirah offers luxury accommodations, dining, and attractions like Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium. Entry fees for these attractions vary, with waterpark tickets starting around AED 320.

19. Bluewaters Island

The island is home to Ain Dubai, the world's largest observation wheel, and has various dining and shopping options. Book your Ain Dubai tickets in advance and enjoy an exceptional dining experience at one of its top restaurants.

20. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

This sanctuary is a haven for bird watchers, especially those who want to see flamingos. Entry is free, and the best time to visit is during winter when migratory birds are present.

21. Kite Beach

Popular among kite surfers and paddleboarders, Kite Beach offers activities for all ages. Entry is free, but some activities may have fees. Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the intense midday sun.

22. IMG Worlds of Adventure

As the world's largest indoor theme park, IMG Worlds of Adventure, offering a variety of entertainment through thrilling rides and attractions. Tickets start from AED 325. Arrive early to maximize your time and avoid long queues.

23. Museum of the Future

The Museum of the Future is an architectural marvel that showcases futuristic innovations and designs. We recommend you book your tickets in advance as they often sell out. Tickets are usually priced at AED 145 for adults, but always check the official website for any price changes.

24. Dubai Parks and Resorts

Home to Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and LEGOLAND, Dubai Parks and Resorts offers fun for the entire family. Tickets vary by park, starting around AED 175. Plan a full day to enjoy all the attractions.

La Mer is a beachfront destination with shops, restaurants, and water sports. Entry is free, but activities and dining have their own costs. Visit in the evening for a vibrant atmosphere and beautiful sunset views.

26. Alserkal Avenue

This cultural district is home to art galleries, cafes, and creative spaces. Entry to the avenue is free, though some exhibitions may charge a fee. Check the event schedule for special exhibitions and performances.

27. Dubai Gold Souk

The Dubai Gold Souk in Deira is a traditional market specializing in gold jewelry. Entry is free, and a great place to explore local craftsmanship. Bargaining is expected, so be prepared to negotiate prices.

28. Al Mamzar Beach Park

This family-friendly beach park offers beautiful beaches, swimming pools, and picnic areas. Entry costs around AED 5 per person or AED 30 per car. Visit on weekdays to avoid the weekend crowds.

29. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

Visit the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve to experience the desert's beauty. Activities like dune bashing, camel rides, and wildlife viewing are available. Prices vary, with many tours starting around AED 200.

30. Dubai Butterfly Garden

Dubai Butterfly Garden is home to over 15,000 butterflies worldwide, housed in ten custom-built domes. Entry costs AED 55 for adults and AED 50 for children. Visit during the cooler months to avoid the heat and enjoy the colorful spectacle.

• When is the best time to visit Dubai? 

The best time to visit Dubai is during the cooler months, from November to March when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.

How can I get around Dubai?

 Dubai has a well-developed public transport system, including the metro, buses, and taxis. For convenience, consider using ride-hailing apps.

• Is Dubai safe for tourists?

 Yes, Dubai is considered safe for tourists, with low crime rates and a strong police presence.

• What should I wear in Dubai? 

While Dubai is is a cosmopolitan city, it's respectful to dress modestly, especially in public places. Swimwear is appropriate at beaches and pools.

• Are there any cultural customs I should be aware of? 

Be mindful of local customs, such as not eating in public during Ramadan, and avoid public displays of affection. It's also essential to ask for permission before taking photos of people.

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Home » Middle East » Places to Visit

27 BEST Places to Visit in Dubai (2024)

Famous for glamorous shopping, towering buildings, modernity, and sheer excess, Dubai United Arab Emirates is one of the hottest spots in the Middle East right now. Surrounded by sandy desert with a long stretch of Persian coastline, there are plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure too. From sunbathing and swimming to diving and dune bugging, you’ll never have a dull moment in Dubai!

However, Dubai’s reputation for exclusivity can put many people off visiting.

There’s no need to swerve Dubai completely though; not only are there some excellent activities that won’t break the bank you can also hit many of the highlights in just a couple of days, meaning that your overall stay doesn’t need to be for too long. Our expert team of travel writers have compiled this list of the best places to visit in Dubai so you can make the most of your trip without blowing your budget.

Spoiler alert: Some of the best places to visit in Dubai are sure to blow you away!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Dubai:

These are the best places to visit in dubai, faq on the best places to visit in dubai, final thoughts on the coolest places to visit in dubai.

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Jumeirah Beach

Why it’s awesome: Fine white sands meet the sparkling blue waters of the Persian Gulf at Jumeirah Beach. There is no charge to enjoy the public beach and you’ll find various vendors and facilities close to hand. Located on Dubai Marina, you'll find luxury like no other in this neighborhood.

• Take a stroll along La Mer, a world-class beachfront
• Visit the Jumeirah Mosque, the largest mosque in the UAE
• Dine on delicious food at Turkish Village Restaurant & Café
• Shop until you drop for luxury fashion at Dubai Marina Mall

If Jumeirah Beach isn’t quite your cup of tea, check out where to stay in Dubai before you scroll on down into the main Dubai attractions.

There are LOADS of areas just waiting to be explored, some of which have accommodation options too. If in doubt, I recommend staying on Sheikh Zayed Road, which is the longest road in Dubai and connects you to all the main tourist attractions.

Now, buckle your seatbelts, it’s time to look at the best places to visit in Dubai. This is gonna be fun!

Still deciding where you go? Have a look at our Dubai vs Qatar post to settle it.

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#1 – Burj Khalifa – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Dubai

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• Tallest building in the world
• Incredible views
• Splendid modern architecture
• Iconic Dubai landmark

Why it’s awesome: The Burj Khalifa , open since 2010 and built in just five years, is the tallest building in the world. Standing at 828 metres (2,717 feet) tall, it’s certainly an imposing sight! The building is that tall that people on the highest floors can still see the sun several minutes after it has set for those at ground level!

Sleek metal and gleaming glass rise high into the sky, with fountains and a pretty tree- and bench-filled park at the bottom. It has several observation decks from where you can enjoy terrific views over Dubai, and there are places inside to eat, drink, and sleep.

Also across from the Burj Khalifa, you will find Dubai’s hottest attraction, Sky Views Dubai . This adrenaline-packed activity that opened in November 2021 at the Sky Views Hotel allows visitors to slide down a complete glass slide from the 53rd floor to the 52nd floor. If you’re not afraid of heights, this attraction is for you.

What to do there: Stroll through the park at the bottom of the tower and perch on a bench to enjoy the vibe and views. Snap plenty of pictures of the towering beauty before riding the high-speed elevators up to the viewing points. (It is advised to book tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.) On Level 124 you can enjoy stunning views of the world at your feet, seeing even further afield thanks to the super-strength telescopes. One of the best places in Dubai.

Level 125 has a beautiful Arabian-style lounge with panoramic views. Dare to step out onto the interactive glass floor—it seems to splinter right beneath your feet, all while standing 456 metres (1,496 feet) above the ground.

You can also take a virtual tour to the very pinnacle of the tower and enjoy a virtual flight over the city. To really feel fancy, book one of the drinks packages, such as afternoon tea, a champagne sundowner, or nighttime cocktails.

#2 – Wild Wadi Waterpark – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Dubai

• Cool down in the sun
• Enjoy various water rides
• Ideal for a fun family day out
• Watch the large waterfall cascading at regular intervals

Why it’s awesome: Wild Wadi Waterpark is one of the best places in Dubai to beat the heat and cool down while having heaps of fun. The large outdoor water park has some 30 rides and attractions for people of all ages and it is themed around the story of Juha, an Arabian folklore figure.

There are several pools and places where you can take it easy and bask in the sunshine, and you’ll also find great spots to grab refreshments and meals. Don’t worry if you’ve forgotten any of the essentials as there’s also a shop on site that sells bathing suits, goggles, towels, and anything else that you’d need for a great day. You can also buy a range of merchandise.

What to do there: Take a refreshing dip in one of the pools and relax around the park. Why not spoil yourself and rent a private cabana for your day at the water park?

Lazily drift along Juha’s Journey, a mellow and laid-back lazy river, grab a ring to hurtle down the ring slides, bob in the turbulent waves of Flood River, and try to keep your head above water in Breaker’s Bay, the biggest wave pool in the Middle East. This place is a great spot to spend some time on the weekend in Dubai , just make sure you bring your sunscreen!

Get your body-boarding and surfing game on at the Wipeout and Riptide Flowriders, one of just four such water attractions in the world. Feel an adrenaline surge at Tantrum Alley and Burj Surj, and climb the 32-metre (105-foot) tower of Jumeirah Sceirah to hurtle down the long and exhilarating slide at a breath-taking 80 km/h (50mph).

Watch as your kids have heaps of fun and giggles at Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon, with tamer slides, water cannons, fountains, shallow pools, and more, all with a cool theme. Pick up souvenirs, enjoy a tasty meal, and have a great day to remember.

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#3 – The Dubai Mall – A great place in Dubai if you love to shop!

• One of the world’s biggest shopping malls
• Home to more than 1,000 shops
• Air of luxury, exclusivity, and glamour
• Various leisure and entertainment options

Why it’s awesome: The best place in Dubai to spend money, the elegant and huge Dubai Mall is perhaps the most famous shopping centre in the UAE, if not the Middle East. With more than 1,000 shops and a variety of entertainment and dining options, you should plan to spend a good few hours there.

Open since 2008, it is now one of the most-visited places across the entire world! You’ll find men’s, women’s, and children’s fashions, fragrances and cosmetics, toys, electronics and gadgets, homewares, and more. Oh, its also amongst the best places to go in Dubai for some free AC and the top place to visit in Dubai for free toilets.

If you’re visiting in December and January, you’ll be visiting around the Dubai Shopping Festival, which is where you can witness live music displays, light installations, daily fireworks d even a DSF Drone Light Show – that’s how it’s done in Dubai!

What to do there: Escape the heat and step into air-conditioned comfort to enjoy some high-class window shopping and retail therapy. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything it’s still well worth visiting the Dubai Mall to admire the sumptuous surroundings and fancy shop displays. Stores include Chanel, Chloe, La Perla, Aldo, Apple, Tiffany and Co, Clinique, Prada, Mac, Dior, Bose, Lego, Fendi, Gap, DKNY, Puma, Gap, Rolex, and many, many more.

Visiting with kids? No worries! Take them to Kidzania where they can have fun with other youngsters in various cool roleplay settings in a mini world designed just for children.

Catch a film at the 22-screen cinema, grab a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants, cafes, and concession stands, go ice skating, see the replica of the Dubai Creek Tower in the Atrium, explore the underwater world at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo , and feel a shiver down your spine in the haunted house of Hysteria. There really is so much to enjoy at the Dubai Mall in addition to shopping.

#4 – Ski Dubai – One of the more unique places to visit in Dubai!

• The first indoor ski resort in the Middle East
• Home to cute colonies of penguins
• Lessons available for all levels of skiers
• Experience winter in the desert

Why it’s awesome: What could be more unusual than skiing and enjoying diverse snow sports while surrounded by desert?! That’s exactly what Ski Dubai offers—heaps of wintery fun! The large facility can be found in the Mall of the Emirates and was the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort.

A top way to get some respite from the heat, temperatures are kept at around -1 to 2 degrees Celsius (30 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit) at all times. It offers tons of fun for people of ages, so whether you’re travelling with friends, family, or your love interest you’ll have a great time there. You can book your full-day-ski-pass here.

What to do there: Don your warm clothes and practice your skiing techniques on the five slopes. If snowboarding is more your thing don’t worry—you can do that too. Have a go at bobsledding, tobogganing, snow tubing, and zorbing, tackle the climbing wall. And ride in a snow plough.

Have a blast in the snow, building snowmen, making snow angels, or simply enjoying a good old snowball fight. Don’t miss seeing the penguins too. The facility is home to both king penguins and Gentoo penguins. There’s a cool penguin parade each day, which is sure to enchant visitors old and young alike. Of all the Dubai place to see, this is the only one I can think of that involves snow.

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#5 – The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve – Dubai’s first national park!

• riding on the back of a camel
• sand surfing on the dunes
• BBQ to finish the day

Why it’s awesome: Its camels, romance and surfing down the sand – it just doesn’t get any more awesome than exploring the Dubai Desert Conversation Reserve, Dubai’s first national park! This tour will take you roughly 60 km from the city centre, right into the red dunes. This is THE place to go in Dubai to get away from Dubai…

What to do there: With this EPIC Desert Safari Dubai you’ll be exploring the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve on the back of a camel, have a breathtaking view over the red sand and test your surfing skills down the dunes. The tour ends with a BBQ and, of course, traditional shisha for everyone. The desert is amongst the best places in Dubai to visit – do not miss this if you have the time.

#6 – Dubai Fountain – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Dubai

• Stunning show that combines water, music, and lights
• Free to watch
• Biggest choreographed fountain in the world
• Boat rides available

Why it’s awesome: Located outside of the famous Dubai Mall on the large Burj Khalifa Lake, the marvellous Dubai Fountain is the world’s biggest choreographed fountain. Created by the same company that designed the famous fountain show at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, shows take place at the Dubai Fountain at various times throughout the day.

There are many spots where you can watch the spectacular sound, light, and fountain show for absolutely free. This is a very popular place to go in Dubai so try to get here early though to secure a great spot.

What to do there: Be in awe of the stunning fountain show, set to traditional Arabian music, classical sounds, and contemporary tunes. Marvel at the exquisitely designed show, which incorporates perfectly synchronised jets of water, colourful lights, and music. Gasp as jets of water shoot up to 152 metres (500 feet) into the air and be blown away by the overall beauty and grace of the stunning fountain show.

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#7 – Jumeirah Beach – A perfect place to visit in Dubai if you are on a budget!

• Gorgeous white sand beach
• Stunning views
• Varied water activities
• Free to enjoy

Why it’s awesome: Fine white sands meet the sparkling blue waters of the Persian Gulf at Jumeirah Beach. There is no charge to enjoy the public beach and you’ll find various vendors and facilities close to hand, so it’s perfect if you’re visiting Dubai on budget .

Water sports are available at the beach, along with a variety of fun beach sports and activities, or you can simply relax and soak up the sun or bury your nose in a good book. The popular beach also offers great views of the ocean and city skyscrapers.

What to do there: Stroll along the white sandy shore and admire the ocean vistas and views of the city’s skyscrapers, including the iconic Burj al Arab. Spread your towel on the sands to soak up some sun or pay a small amount to rent a lounger and parasol. Paddle and swim in the sea (though do be sure to be cautious of undercurrents and rip tides and make sure that children, especially, do not go far from your reach).

Get some morning or evening exercise by walking, jogging, cycling, or skating along the long beach boulevard, pick up some refreshments from one of the beach vendors, and enjoy a day at the seaside in Dubai.

#8 – Dubai Miracle Garden – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Dubai

• Romantic and scenic destination
• One of the biggest natural flower gardens across the globe
• Eco-friendly initiatives
• Certain elements in the Guinness Book of World Records
• One of the top places to visit in Dubai

Why it’s awesome: The stunning Dubai Miracle Garden is an award-winning attraction. Among the biggest flower gardens in the world, it contains many large and beautiful floral displays that are photogenic and impressive. The garden boasts around 50 million flowers in a wide array of hues and 250 million plants.

Opened on Valentine’s Day, it is a great destination for lovers with much natural beauty to admire. Some of the garden’s features appear in the Guinness Book of World Records. The garden featured in a Bollywood movie, with the director eager to show a different side to Dubai than simply towering buildings and high-tech elements.

What to do there: Wander through the pretty gardens, admiring the rich array of flora and inhaling the enticing scents. The aromatic garden is especially alluring. See the gigantic floral clock, observe the peacocks that roam the grounds, marvel at the huge Mickey Mouse topiary, and be awed by the gigantic Airbus A360 floral display (entered in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the biggest flower-created structure in the world).

Visit the world’s biggest indoor Butterfly Garden, home to around 15,000 attractive butterflies. Other great features include a castle made from millions of flowers, a passageway of umbrellas, a kids’ trampoline park, a walkway of hearts, a hill of flowers, a towering floral teddy bear, a shimmering lake, and a giant tortoise.

You’ll find various places to eat and drink throughout the gardens too, and there are plentiful opportunities to relax and simply enjoy being outdoors and away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

#9 – Dubai Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Dubai

• Housed in Dubai’s oldest existing building
• Wide assortment of artefacts from the Gulf states and beyond
• Interesting dioramas at the Dubai Museum
• Travel back through the ages

Why it’s awesome: Dubai Museum is located within the 1787 Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest remaining building in Dubai present on every backpacking Dubai travel guide (as it should be!). The mighty building exudes a sense of strength and history, having been used as a weapons storage facility, a defensive fortress, a prison, and a royal home in times gone by.

Providing insights into the Dubai of old, from a time before oil made the country rich and the modern buildings sprang up in the desert terrain, there are heaps of fascinating displays and exhibits. Open since the early 1970s, the museum seeks to preserve the traditional way of life and culture of Dubai. The museum is one of the best places to see in Dubai for those who want some historical context.

What to do there: Enter the mighty coral-built fortress through the cannon-flanked main entrance to appreciate the structure’s grandeur and strength. Gaze up at the old tower, which dates back to the 1780s, see the reconstructed city walls, and admire the traditional boat (known as a dhow) in the main courtyard.

Make your way around the diverse galleries and halls, seeing exhibitions of musical instruments, weapons, furniture, drawings, pottery, tombstones, and more.

Look into the various replica buildings, including mosques, souks complete with an ironmonger, tailor, carpenter, and other tradesmen, homes, a Bedouin tent, and farms, see how Dubai has changed over the years at the large dioramas, and learn more about the area’s traditional pearl-diving activities. There’s also an onsite gift shop.

#10 – Hatta – A very cool place in Dubai to go for a day

• Mountain landscapes
• Adventure activities
• One of the oldest preserved heritage areas in the country
• An hour away from the heart of Dubai

Why it’s awesome: Hatta is a gorgeous location in the Hajar Mountains. Scenic views and a sense of history make for a fantastic day out away from the skyscrapers and modern way of life. The mountain enclave has a cultural town with desert farms and a fortress and Hatta Heritage Village is a great place to see a way of life long since passed.

There are incredible viewpoints and the deep blues of the sparkling lake contrast with the reddish-grey rocks and arid terrain. Of all the places to go in Dubai for nature, Hatta is one of the best.

What to do there: Feast your eyes on natural splendour as you drive through the craggy mountains to Hatta. Inhale deliciously fresh air and try a variety of outdoor adventures—enjoy thrilling mountain biking and hiking, go kayaking on the shimmering lake, and spot a variety of nature.

Admire the vistas from Hatta Dam and learn more about the country’s past at Hatta Library. The Heritage Village is a must, with its ancient fort and recreated huts and houses. History is really brought to life.

#11 – Dubai Frame – A great place to see in Dubai if you love architecture

• Biggest frame in the world
• Set in pretty parkland
• Unusual structure
• Fabulous views
• One of the Dubai must see places

Why it’s awesome: Dubai Frame, open since early 2018, is one of Dubai’s most incredible landmarks. Standing at 150 metres (492 feet) tall, the large frame is 105 metres (345 feet) wide. Located in Zabeel Park, the structure is surrounded by grass, palm trees, and various other natural features.

Diverse leisure options are available in the park too. Not only is the frame itself a beautiful piece of architecture, made from aluminium, steel, glass, and concrete, but the whole point of the huge frame is to provide cool views of the city’s magnificent skyline and architectural marvels.

What to do there: Stand one side of the frame and see Dubai’s modern skyscrapers as if in a picture, and then move to the other side for a framed perspective of Old Dubai. Depending on your position you can compare and contrast the old and new parts of the city.

Take plenty of pictures of the Dubai Frame and the views through the massive structure. Aside from admiring the structure and getting your Insta-fix, the frame is a great spot to meet up and hang out. Locals and visitors use the area for jogging, skating, picnicking and simply hanging.

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#12 – Burj al Arab – One of the most amazing places in Dubai!

• Iconic landmark
• World’s fanciest hotel
• Striking architecture
• Located on an artificial island

Why it’s awesome: The stunning Burj al Arab is one of the most famous hotels in the world. Coined as the world’s only six-star hotel, it offers unrivalled luxury and pampering. You don’t have to be staying at the magnificent hotel to enjoy its splendour however; many people visit simply to admire the iconic structure from outside, marvelling at the sail-like form and gleaming profile.

Standing on an artificial island, the sea provides a gorgeous backdrop to the maritime-inspired building. The hotel has featured in several films and TV shows and diverse high-profile events have taken place at the lofty helipad, including Tiger Woods playing gold, David Coulthard driving an F1 racing car, and a tennis match between Andre Agassi and Roger Federer.

What to do there: If you really want to splash the cash and spoil yourself, book to stay in the world’s most lavish hotel and enjoy star-quality pampering. Guests can enjoy all trapping like the decadent spa, inviting swimming pools, modern fitness centre, and chauffeur-driven Rolls Royce. For a cheaper (though not cheap) experience you can also dine in one of the hotel’s world-class restaurants or indulge in afternoon tea or cocktails. Alternatively, admire the elegant building from the outside and snap plenty of pictures of the striking hotel.

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#13 – Palm Jueirah – Dubai’s collection of palm islands!

Why it’s awesome: The Palm Islands are a collection of three man-made islands that make up the shape of a palm. Palm Jumeirah is lined with luxury hotels with private beaches, making it the ideal place to stay if you want to be pampered and have a totally luxurious experience.

However, it is also a place best-seen from above. If you don’t have a drone, then you can sky dive and view the structure in all its glory.

What to do here: Take a stroll around the streets of the Palm Jumeirah or bathe on the private beach of one of the luxury hotels (if you’re staying there of course). To be honest, there isn’t much to see here from the ground, it’s more about having a luxury experience at one of the hotels.

#14 – Motiongate Dubai – Awesome place to visit in Dubai with kids!

• Fun theme park inspired by Hollywood
• Rides and attractions for people of all ages
• Fantastic family-friendly day out
• Live entertainment

Why it’s awesome: Motiongate Dubai, open since late 2016, has various cool areas with different Hollywood-inspired themes. There are diverse rides, attractions, and shows, with something to suit old and young alike. A popular place for a family outing, there are indoor and outdoor activities and attractions. The themed areas include Studio Central, Smurfs’ Village, DreamWorks, Lionsgate, and Colombia Pictures. Enter the world of film and the big screen and meet many well-known characters. There are places to eat and shop too.

What to do there: Get set for an active and fun day out at Motiongate Dubai. Discover the different enchanting areas and enjoy the cool rides. Enter the world of animation at DreamWorks, themed around movies like Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, and Madagascar, and enjoy the whimsical world of Smurfs’ Village. In Columbia Pictures you’ll find attractions based around Sony Picture productions, including Ghostbusters, The Green Hornet, and Hotel Transylvania.

Feel the rush on adrenaline-inducing rides like Blast Off, High Speed Chase, and Capitol Bullet Train, let your kids have a whale of a time in play areas like Flint’s Imagination Lab, Woodland Play Park, and the Smurfberry Factory, and have an interactive adventure at Underworld 4D and Unstoppable Awesomeness. Tap your feet at shows like King Julien’s Side Show Stop and Operation Penguin Shake, and make many magical memories.

#15 – Safa Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Dubai

• Enjoy being outdoors
• Escape the crowded streets
• Sporting and leisure facilities
• Lots of flora and fauna

Why it’s awesome: Popular with locals and tourists alike, Safa Park is a pleasant place to unwind outdoors in Dubai. It’s easy to find a quiet place to relax and chill with a good book. Children can enjoy the play areas and there are facilities for jogging, cycling, tennis, basketball, volleyball, and football. The park’s landscapes include three lakes, a waterfall, and a small forest, and you can spot an array of wildlife. Each month Safa Park hosts a large flea market—visit on the first Saturday of the month for some bargain hunting.

What to do there: Choose a shaded spot to sit and relax and soak up the peaceful air, or get active and partake in some exercise. You can walk or run around the jogging track or grab your friends for a game of volleyball, tennis, or football. Stroll around the shimmering lakes and look out for the many bird species that call the park home. You’ll also likely spot butterflies, small mammals, and small reptiles too. Enjoy the great views of downtown Dubai, cook up a meaty feast at the BBQs, and enjoy an outdoor lunch at the picnic areas.

#16 – Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood – One of Dubai’s coolest historical sites!

• Experience a traditional way of life
• Step back in time
• Set next to the Dubai Creek
• Various cultural activities

Why it’s awesome: Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (also referred to as Al Bastakiya) offers a charming glimpse into Emirati life of times gone by. Sitting alongside the atmospheric Dubai Creek, the neighbourhood has much of its original streets and buildings.

Narrow alleyways wind through the olde-worlde buildings and the overall vibe is steeped in history and heritage. The way of life is peaceful and unhurried. There are vendors selling traditional foods and you’ll find a wealth of cultural establishments and small stores. A variety of events take place here throughout the year, including the Sikka Art Fair.

What to do there: Take a leisurely stroll through the winding streets and narrow lanes, absorbing the nostalgic energy and atmosphere. See buildings of old, a stark contrast to the more modern parts of Dubai. Hear whispers from the past as you walk past old homes and towers, imagining a life long since passed.

Learn how the people of yesteryear lived, before oil and wealth drastically changed the city. Travel back to the middle of the 19 th century and uncover past times at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Browse in the quaint art galleries and soak up the creative air and pause for a break and to watch the world go by in a cosy cafe.

One of my favorite things to do here is to visit an old Arabian tea house and enjoy a delicious lunch meal and some exquisite tea.

#17 – Dubai Garden Glow – Quite the quirky place in Dubai!

• Whimsical, colourful, and imaginative
• Perfect destination for families
• Blend of art, technology, and nature
• Environmentally-aware attraction that teaches people about global warming

What it’s awesome: Dubai Garden Glow is an enchanting and amazing evening destination in the large Zabeel Park. Old and young alike are sure to be mesmerised by the stunning lights and displays. While attractive during the day, watch as the park goes through a magical transformation as darkness descends, with many colourful illuminated features. Split into different areas, the park also has a terrific zone dedicated to recycling and eco-awareness. There are street entertainers to add to the carnival-like air and you’ll find various shows and places to eat and drink.

What to do there: Plan to spend at least a couple of hours exploring Dubai Garden Glow and try to time your visit to enjoy the garden both during the daylight and during the dark. Little ones can run and play in the wide open spaces and younger members of the family are all but guaranteed to be transfixed in the large Dinosaur Park. Home to around 120 huge animatronic dinosaurs, it’s certainly exciting!

Appreciate the eco-friendly Art Park, with its striking displays made of empty bottles, old ceramics, CDs, and other recycled items. Marvel at the exquisite ice sculptures in the Ice Park and be dazzled by the beautiful lights of Glow Park. There are lanterns, landmarks, flowers, and animals, all made from lights. Call into the food pavilion if you feel peckish.

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#18 – Dubai Opera – A great place to visit in Dubai at night

• Large performing arts venue
• See various types of shows and performances
• Designed to resemble a traditional sailing vessel
• Major cultural attraction

Why it’s awesome: Dubai Opera is a modern and eye-catching building that was built to look like a dhow, or traditional boat. It was the first purpose-built multi-arts venue in Dubai. The large venue can seat around 2,000 people at any given time and it hosts a variety of shows and events. The program includes musicals, plays, ballets, operatic performances, comedy shows, fashion shows, and more. The interiors are lavish and opulent and the building also has a restaurant and a beautiful sky garden.

What to do there: Check the listings and book tickets to see an event at the Dubai Opera. It’s definitely a great way to inject a little more culture into your stay. Admire the elegant building from the outside and inside and go up to the sky garden to see sweeping views across the city. The great views include the iconic Burj Khalifa and the sublime Dubai Fountain. Dine on delectable gourmet cuisine in the high-class restaurant too. This the best place to visit in Dubai for a blast of Wagner or Puccini although the idea of an opera in the desert is a bit Fitzcaraldo.

#19 – Grand Mosque – One of the most religious places to see in Dubai

• Large Islamic place of worship
• Hear the call to prayer five times per day from the soaring minaret
• One of the city’s most important religious buildings
• Beautiful architecture

Why it’s awesome: Dubai’s Grand Mosque is at the heart of local religious and spiritual life, and it’s also a major place for Islamic culture and social events. The original mosque was built at the start of the 20 th century, though it has been rebuilt several times since with the present mosque dating back to 1998. The towering minaret is one of the tallest in the country. Resembling a lighthouse, it’s an impressive piece of architecture. There are many fine details around the main body of the mosque, including glorious domes, stained glass, and Quranic calligraphy. Of all the Dubai must see places this is the most classical beautiful.

What to do there: Be sure to dress modestly to visit Dubai’s Grand Mosque (or any other place of worship for that matter). Walk around the courtyard and admire the building from the outside and watch as the faithful come to pray. Non-Muslims aren’t permitted in the main mosque, but you can look at the beautiful minaret. Standing at 70 metres (230 feet) tall, the lighthouse-like tower is the tallest in Dubai and one of the tallest in the UAE. Soak up the spiritual air in the heart of the old city. Come back to see the mosque at night time too when it is beautifully lit up.

#10 – Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Dubai!

• Off-the-beaten-track destination
• Desert landscapes and pretty artificial lakes
• Diverse wildlife
• Sustainable tourism initiatives

Why it’s awesome: Situated just around a 30-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of downtown Dubai, Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve is a great place to discover the surrounding desert areas. It’s easy to forget that the modern and gleaming city of Dubai is almost entirely surrounded by arid desert. The first unfenced nature reserve in the country, it is home to an interesting array of flora and fauna. The man-made lakes are picturesque and the area also has fascinating archaeological sites too. Many locals come here to enjoy the natural beauty, though it sees relatively few international visitors. It makes a pleasant change to the high-tech aura, frenetic activity, and tall buildings of Dubai.

What to do there: Visit the extensive network of artificial lakes, the Al Qudra Lakes and spot interesting wildlife, including some rare and endangered species. Look out for butterflies, birds, lizards, frogs, fish, and rodents, and see around 40 different species of plants. The observation platforms are some of the best places to see different native wildlife. If you can bear the heat you can enjoy long bike rides along the 84-kilometre (52-mile) track.

Visit the Saruq Al Hadid Archaeological Site, discovered in 2002, to see an assortment of artefacts from the past. Things like jewellery, pottery, weapons, and tools were unearthed here. If you visit in the late afternoon you can witness a striking sunset and then stay for a spot of stargazing. With almost no light pollution it’s a great place for astronomy fans.

#21 – Bollywood Parks – Cool place to see in Dubai with friends!

• Unique theme park
• Experience Indian culture without leaving the Middle East
• Diverse rides, shows, and other attractions
• Plenty of fun for people of all ages

Why it’s awesome: A great place for a fun day out with your family or friends, Bollywood Parks is a unique theme park in Dubai. Indeed, it’s the world’s first theme park to be dedicated to the Indian movie industry. Inspired by the colours, music, and energy of Bollywood, the vibrant amusement park is divided into several captivating zones. There are exciting rides, captivating shows, and cool attractions as well as delicious Indian cuisine, gift shops, and backstage experiences.

What to do there: Get into the Bollywood groove as you explore the five different zones, all full of passion, colour, joy, emotion, action, romance, and adventure. Wander the scintillating Bollywood Boulevard, a riot of colour with enticing eateries and spellbinding shows. Experience Mumbai Chowk with its flair, zest, cuisine, and adventures, and immerse yourself even further into Indian life in the picturesque Rustic Ravine. This is a good place in Dubai to visit for fans of Bollywood – and there are at least a billion of them.

The decadent Royal Plaza is sure to impress and you can step into the silver screen at the Bollywood Film Studios. Enjoy an immersive cricket match at Thrill of Victory, compete against your mates at the Hunt for Gabbar Singh, enter the virtual world at Unleashed, fly high through the skies on Hero’s Flight, travel back in time at Crossroads, and enjoy all the glitz and glam at Stars on Steps. Don’t forget to pick up themed merchandise and fabulous outfits before you leave.

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#22 – Dubai Creek – One of the most romantic places to visit in Dubai!

• Scenic saltwater creek
• Long history
• Lined with interesting buildings
• Romantic boat rides

Why it’s awesome: Dubai creek connects the desert with the seaport, and was once a major trading route. It was once at the heart of the pearl trade and was/is a major place for fishing. It’s still a hive of activity today, with vessels of all sizes bobbing along the waters. The creek used to divide the city into two parts: Deira and Bur Dubai.

The Bani Yas tribal group first settled along the edges of the water. Several interesting buildings sit alongside the creek, including Dubai Creek Tower, the National Bank, and Deira Twin Towers, and there’s a pleasant Dubai park close to hand. A nice place for a stroll with your beloved, there are also several activities to enjoy here too.

What to do here: Admire the waterside vistas and take a walk alongside the creek. Admire the attractive buildings at the water’s edge and relax in the large Dubai Creek Park. Get a taste of port life at the Dhow Wharfage, an area filled with traditional sailing boats and a thronging place of activity.

Wave to the friendly sailors and watch as they unload their hauls and cargo. If you’re lucky, you may also catch a glimpse of street performers next to the creek. One of the most romantic things to do at Dubai Creek is to charter a ride on a dhow and admire the city from the water. You can also watch a splendid sunset in the evening times.

#23 – Spice Souk – Certainly one of the most exotic places to see in Dubai!

• Aromatic and colourful
• Pick up local gifts and souvenirs
• Get a sense of the Dubai of old
• Practice your haggling skills

Why it’s awesome: Part of the Old Souk, the spice souk specialises in fragrant spices from across the globe. You’ll also find a wealth of beautiful fragrances and perfumes too—it really is a place that appeals to the senses. Furthermore, there are also other goods for sale, including textiles, rugs, and souvenirs. The narrow twisty lanes are lined with open-air stalls and more traditional closed stores and the atmosphere is pretty old-fashioned. The spice souk is definitely a striking contrast to the modern malls and shopping centre in downtown Dubai. This is the Dubai place to go for a taste and smell of typical Arabic life.

What to do there: Get lost roaming the tiny alleyways and winding streets as you peruse a wide selection of spices and fragrances. You’ll find everything here from custom-made scents that smell like designer perfumes, teas, herbal remedies, culinary spices, and incense. Discover common spices used in local dishes and pick up items to take home with you. Don’t forget to haggle and negotiate if you do want to make a purchase. Inhale the rich aromas of things like cumin, saffron, pepper, garlic, turmeric, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. The heady Arabian atmosphere transports you back in time and really gives you a sense of the exotic.

#24 – Jumeirah Mosque – One of the nicer places in Dubai to sightsee!

• Important place of Islamic worship
• Open to non-Muslim visitors
• Learn more about Islamic culture, traditions, life, and festivals

Why it’s awesome: Built in the late 1970s, Jumeirah Mosque has a traditional Fatimid style with elements from Egypt and Syria. The photogenic building is a popular place for tourists wishing to learn more about Islam. It is the only mosque in Dubai that permits entry to non-Muslims, though do be aware that you should be dressed modestly and that women are requested to cover their hair. (Items are available for visitors to borrow.) Informative, friendly, and educational tours are available for visitors.

What to do there: Admire the large pale building from the outside, taking in the visual beauty of the two minarets, domes, windows, and arches. Take a tour to learn more about the local way of life and beliefs, and feel free to ask questions and take photos. Listen for the harmonious call to prayer issued five times each day from the minarets. Try traditional snacks and drinks like coffee and dates. Try to visit the mosque in the evening too when it is splendidly illuminated.

#25 – Alserkal Avenue – One of the most underrated places to see in Dubai

• Hub for arts and culture
• Creative vibe
• Located in an old industrial area
• Cool shopping and dining opportunities

Why it’s awesome: Wondering where to go in Dubai for a bit of art? Well cool, creative, hip, and trendy, Alserkal Avenue is an up-and-coming part of Dubai. Once little more than an edgy industrial area, today you’ll find a wealth of excellent art galleries and other creative spaces alongside workshops, studios, stores, and offbeat eateries. Most establishments are housed within former warehouses and factories. The area grew from one single gallery that moved here in 2008. Today, it’s one of the freshest emerging districts in the whole of the Middle East.

What to do there: See the converted industrial buildings and soak up the creative vibe in the many art spaces. With around 60 art- and design-focused venues there’s something to cater to all tastes. Admire a wide selection of artistic works by both local and international artists, learn more about local community projects, watch performing art demonstrations, attend diverse workshops, and purchase unique items to take home with you.

Galleries in the area include Ayyam, El Seed, Green Art Gallery, Carbon 12 Dubai, Jean Paul Najar Foundation , and Gallery Isabelle van den Eynde. Check out the cultural events calendar and see what’s on when you’re visiting the city. Have a look in Salsali, the first private museum in Dubai, shop for hip fashions, gadgets, custom-made jewellery, and boutique lifestyle items, and stop for refreshments in one of the district’s cool cafes and restaurants.

#26 – Ras al Khor Bird Sanctuary – A nice quiet place to see in Dubai

• Wild wetlands close to the city
• Home to many bird species, reptiles, fish, and other creatures
• Attracts migratory species
• Top place for keen bird spotters and nature lovers

Why it’s awesome: Peaceful and quiet, it’s difficult to believe that the wetlands and wildlife of Ras al Khor Bird Sanctuary are just a stone’s throw from the urban sprawl of Dubai. The large sanctuary incorporates mudflats, lagoons, mangroves, and salt flats, with habitats suitable for many types of birds and other creatures.

There are fish, crustaceans, reptiles, and small mammals in the sanctuary too, with some species using the area as a breeding ground. It’s an absolute hidden gems in Dubai and one of the few places to get up close to nature near the modern desert-surrounded city.

What to do there: Admire the varied terrain and settle down in a hide to watch for a variety of wildlife. There are so many species of birds to look out for, including kingfishers, egrets, herons, ospreys, storks, peafowl, eagles, and wagtails. The sanctuary is especially known for its huge numbers of pretty pink flamingos in the winter months. You may also see fish, rodents, and other small creatures.

#27 – Kite Beach – An awesome place to visit in Dubai for half a day!

• Clean and tidy sandy beach
• Great water sports options
• Family-friendly destination
• Good seaside facilities

Why it’s awesome: Kite Beach is one of the best beaches in Dubai. It boasts white sands and a laid-back vibe. There are plenty of opportunities to be adventurous out on the waves too, with activities like surfing, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddle boarding. There’s also no shortage of beach games to watch or join in with, and you’ll find amenities like bathrooms and showers close to the beach. It’s free to visit the public beach. The food trucks and refreshment carts are ideal for keeping hunger and thirst at bay.

What to do there: If you’re after water sports, head to Kite Beach in the afternoon for the best conditions. There are rental stores close to the beach if you need equipment, then you’re good to go! Hit the waves and enjoy active watery adventures! Kayaking, kite surfing, and paddle boarding are just a few things you can do at Kite Beach. You can also relax in the sun, join in with a game of beach volleyball, build a sandcastle, paddle in the sea, and take a long walk along the coast. Lap up the views of the Burj al Arab and, if you visit on a Friday or Saturday, shop for trinkets and souvenirs in the seaside market.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Dubai

What is the most romantic place to visit in Dubai?

Visiting the Arabian Desert at sunset is one of the most romantic places to visit in Dubai for couples.

What is the best place to visit in Dubai with the family?

Ski Dubai is an indoor ski slope and a great place to visit with the family.

What is a free place to visit in Dubai?

The Dubai Mall is free to walk around and is the largest mall in the world. It also has some pretty nice A/C.

What should I not miss in Dubai?

If you’re visiting Dubai for a short trip, you should not miss the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

Work through these best places to visit in Dubai for a diverse, fascinating, and memorable trip to one of the coolest destinations in the Middle East. Covering shopping, iconic landmarks, culture, heritage, and nature, there’s definitely something to keep everyone happy.

You’ll find a good selection of budget-friendly attractions and some great hostels and activities in Dubai, so there’s no need to worry too much about making your bank manager angry! Have a great time discovering the city’s highlights and hitting up the very best places to visit in Dubai.

Insider Tip: If you have the money and don’t want to spend hours in the car, driving from one hot spot to the next, you should check out this helicopter tour. Instead of exploring the city from below, you can simply fly over Dubai and have an amazing adventure that not many people get to experience!

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Top Places to Visit in Dubai

Here is the list of 42 places to visit in dubai, 1. burj khalifa.

Towering at a height of 2,700 feet, the Burj Khalifa is currently the tallest tower in the world. With two observation decks, a Las Vegas-inspired fountain, nine of the city's best luxury hotels and multiple restaurants, this 21st-century architectural marvel must be your number one place to visit when in Dubai or even the UAE. Also, make sure to book your tickets in advance well to avoid last moment hassles.

2. The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall, also known as the home of the Dubai shopping festival, is one of the world's largest shopping malls, with an area of over 500,000 square meters! With more than 1200 stores, a large walk-through aquarium, a world-class ice rink, 14,000 parking spaces and more exciting experiences for shoppers.

3. Miracle Garden Dubai

Miracle Garden is one of the most beautiful and biggest natural flower gardens in the world. Located in Dubailand, it is spread across a vast area of over 72,000 square meters, the garden is the world's largest natural flower garden featuring over 45 million flowers and plants. The place is a heaven for those seeking nature's beauty in the city. The garden is open only from mid-November to mid-May.

4. Global Village Dubai

Global Village Dubai is claimed to be the world's most significant tourism, leisure and entertainment project in UAE. It is the region's first cultural, entertainment, family and shopping destination. The compound has various pavilions dedicated to different countries usually by creating an imitation of a famous landmark of the country.

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Located on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo houses over 33,000 marine life occupying the 10 million litres of water within the tank. A unique underwater zoo occupies the level above the tank showcasing a plethora of underwater life that can be found inhabiting the oceans, rivers and other water bodies across the planet. The VR Zoo makes up the third section offering thrilling wildlife adventures via realistically created virtual tours.

6. Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort with 22,500 square meters of the indoor ski area. It is the largest indoor ski park in the world. The park has a Snow Park, ski slopes, an ice museum and a skiing academy for those who wish to learn skiing. Apart from the regular facilities, Ski Dubai also hosts various events and concerts and a very cosy eatery called the Avalance Cafe which has a balcony that faces the ski slopes.

7. Dubai Fountain

Dubai Fountain is the world's largest choreographed water fountain located in the beautiful Burj Complex. This dancing fountain surges as high as 150 meters in complete synchronisation to classical, Arabic and other popular world musical numbers. Forming beautiful arcs and jumping to the beats, this fountain was designed by California-based WET, the creators of the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas. The show begins in the evening every day, and the best way to approach it is through the Dubai Mall.

8. IMG Worlds of Adventure

Established in 2016 in ‘the heart of Dubai’, IMG is the city’s first mega indoor theme park with world-class amenities and entertainment. Situated on the famous Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, this cartoon-themed park sprawls across 1.5 million square feet of amusement park space. Located next to Global village, this entertainment destination is full of live shows, attractive rides, movies and fantastic food options. Popular franchises there are characters from Frozen, Disney, Cars, Marvel, DC comics and more.

9. Legoland Dubai

Situated amidst Dubai parks and resorts, Legoland is a family-theme park which lets you play with the Lego bricks and enjoy on water slides too! Ideal for kids aged between 2 to 12, Legoland is divided between two parks- a Lego park and a Lego Water Park. Legoland, Dubai consists of almost forty interactive rides, twenty water slides and more than fifteen thousand Lego models.

10. Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame is the world's largest frame structure inspired by the logo of the World Expo 2020. Located in Zabeel Park, it is a frame for some of the greatest architectural marvels of Dubai, including the Burj Khalifa. It is flanked by two high-rise towers that go up to 150 meters and are connected by a Sky Deck with a breadth of 93 meters which acts as a top member of the frame structure.

11. Aquaventure Waterpark

One of the biggest water parks of Dubai, Aquaventure is located in the Atlantis hotel complex. This amazing water park offers a series of pools, shoots and flumes and a few thrilling rides. Adrenaline pumping Tower of Neptune and the equally exhilarating Tower of Poseidon are some of the key highlights of the park. Visitors can also relax at the Cabanas, have a nice meal at the various restaurants and shop some souvenirs at the many stores in the park.

12. Dubai Marina

Nestled in the region popularly known as 'New Dubai', Dubai Marina is a conceptualized man-made canal city. It offers luxurious lifestyles through its exquisite waterfront development along the Persian Gulf shoreline. There are classy hotels and upscale shopping and other leisure options here. It also contains the Dubai Marina Mall Complex, a shopping and entertainment destination.

13. Ain Dubai

Inspired by the famous London Eye, Ain Dubai is the world's tallest observation wheel! This 210-metre-long structure is built in the centre of Bluewater islands which are a group of human-made islands. The 360-degree views of the city, coastline, beaches, skyscrapers and the fantastic views of Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab are a magnificent sight!

14. Mall of the Emirates

The Mall of the Emirates, located in the Al Barsha area of West Dubai, is he "World’s first shopping resort." It has also been named the “World's Leading New Shopping Mall”. The Mall of the Emirates is home to a magnificent family leisure centre housing Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort and Snow Park, the first of its kind in the Middle East.

15. Dubai Gold Souk

Dubai is famous not just for its deserts, adventure parks and resorts, but for its many shopping hubs as well. Dubai's famous gold souk happens to be the world's largest gold market! Situated in Deira, this golden souk is the most famous and highly visited tourist spot in Dubai because of its excellent quality and designs of gold. With more than 350 jewellery traders and retailers, Gold Souk is restocked with at least 10 tons of gold daily.

16. Motiongate Dubai

If you are a die-hard fan of Hollywood movies, then the Motiongate theme park is a must-visit. Located in the Dubai Parks and Resorts, the Hollywood Inspired Theme Park has been designed and developed as per the famous movie studios like the Columbia Pictures Studios, DreamWorks Studios and the Lionsgate Studios.

17. Bollywood Parks

Bollywood Parks Dubai is the ‘first theme park dedicated to the B-town’ in the world! A part of Dubai Parks and Resorts, visitors can visit various remakes of famous Bollywood movie sets like Lagaan, have a 4D movie experience to the movie Krish, the Cinema Circle for dance workshops and more. This place has perfect photo opportunities with the beautiful Indian décor, henna artists, vintage movie posters, mannequins of stars and colourful live performances.

18. Kite Beach

Not just a beachgoers hub, but a regular spot for watersports enthusiasts, Kite Beach, is the newest beach in Dubai to have a lasting impression on visitors. Wakeboarding, kitesurfing and paddleboarding are a few things that visitors try out when visiting Kite Beach. One can try their hand at volleyball too with the net set upright on the beach.

19. Dubai Safari Park

This beautiful park has over 3000 animals from across the globe and has become a popular attraction in Dubai for locals and tourists alike. The zoo is divided into various zones named as 'Villages', and these are classified based on the regions around the world in which the animals are based.

20. Dubai Spice Souk

Famous for its amazing quality and variety of herbs, spices and flavours, Dubai Spice Souks, also known as Old Souk, is all you need to visit for a visual as well as for a taste treat. The air is filled with a unique blend of smells and aromas. Situated in Deira, visitors can find other products like unique Arabian rugs and lanterns, dried fruits and traditional UAE clothing as well. It is the perfect place in Dubai for souvenir shopping.

21. Dubai Garden Glow

Dubai Garden Glow is the world's first park dedicated to glow-in-the-dark. Situated within the Zabeel Park, this place is well known for extraordinary light architecture installations inspired by art objects from all across the world. Images of a giant jellyfish moving in time to the music while floating above the Zabeel Lake has mesmerized both children and adults while the images of a sparkling Burj Khalifa is definitely awe-inspiring. It is currently closed for the summer. It will reopen in October.

22. Dubai Dolphinarium

Home to the majestic Black Sea bottlenose dolphins, Northern and Southern American fur seals, and exotic birds, the Dubai Dolphinarium is famous worldwide for its awe-inspiring and interactive shows. Located in Creek Park, a family entertainment and activity park in Dubai, the Dubai Dolphinarium is a major tourist attraction where people from all over the world flock in large numbers all around the year to enjoy exciting marine mammal and bird shows.

23. At the Top Burj Khalifa

Giving a mesmerising view of the horizon, the At the Top Burj Khalifa tour is a showstopper for those of you out there who wish to know what the view is like from the world's tallest tower. Developed specifically for the tourists, the At the Top tour and At the Top SKY tour takes you to one of the highest observation decks in the world!

24. Museum of the Future

Museums usually tell you the story about the past of a place, but stepping into the Museum of the Future will feel like stepping into the future itself. Located in Dubai on Sheikh Zayed road this is one of the most ambitious projects undertaken in the world. The project was initiated by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates, and ruler of the Emirate of Dubai under the lookout of the Dubai Future Foundation

25. The Walk at JBR

The Walk at JBR near Dubai Marina is a beautiful avenue lined with swaying palms on either side offering many shops and restaurants to its visitors. The Walk is nearly a mile-long stretch with plazas and arcaded doorways on both sides. The Walk is host to multiple events and festival venues and is a must-visit after sunset.

Pier 7 located at Dubai Marina Mall is the mecca for food lovers and connoisseurs with a discerning taste. Home to not one or two but seven different world-class restaurants under one roof is what makes it the most sought-after destination for foodies. Designed to accommodate seven floors of fine dining experience with the city skyline as a backdrop, Pier 7 Dubai boasts of extraordinary architecture as well.

27. Dolphin Bay

Located in Atlantis, the Palm, a trip to Dolphin Bay allows visitors to interact with beautiful dolphins in their habitat. Dolphin Bay is one of the finest and sophisticated human-made dolphin locales in the world. At Dolphin Bay, you learn everything there is to know about swimming with dolphins, feeding them, a more in-depth perspective about the marine mammals and this is a fun activity for adults and children!

28. Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah, Dubai's magnificent artificial archipelago, is the epitome of beauty created by land reclamation, extending into the Persian Gulf. The archipelago resembles a palm tree with a circle when you take an overhead view of it. It was one of the first major tourism projects in the UAE and currently houses some of Dubai’s top tourist destinations like Atlantis, the Palm, Aquaventure Waterpark and the Lost Chambers Aquarium.

29. Burj Al Arab Public Beach

Burj Al Arab Beach is a public beach surrounding the stunning, world-famous hotel, Burj Al Arab. Located in the Umm Suqeim area, it is also locally known as Umm Suqeim Beach or Sunset Beach. This place is one of the most photographed areas in Dubai.

30. Jumeirah Beach

Stretched along the coast, south of the city's historic Al Faihidi district, this sandy white strip of sand is among the top beach destinations for visitors to Dubai. For adventure buffs, there is a facility for various watersports like jet skiing, kitesurfing and more. For a quiet day at the beach, visitors can rent sun loungers too.

31. Wild Wadi

Wild Wadi Water Park is one of the premier water parks of Dubai and boasts of innovative rides for all ages providing a unique experience for visitors. Located in front of the iconic Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi Water Park is themed around Juha, the character from the very popular folktale Arabian nights. Apart from the rides, the water park also provides an excellent surfing experience.

32. Jumeirah Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is regarded as one of the most beautiful mosques in the UAE. Built exactly on lines of Cairo's Al Azhar Mosque that is eight times its size, this mosque is an excellent example of Islamic architecture. It is the only mosque in Dubai that is open to non-muslims. Its detailed architecture and design are even more glorified when lit up in the evening. It is also one of the most photographed mosques in the UAE.

33. Dragon Mart Dubai

The Dragon Mall in Dubai, better known as the Dragon Mart, is the largest trading hub for Chinese products outside mainland China since 2004. The 1.2 kilometer-long, 150,000 square meter dragon-shaped mall offers a stock of Chinese products at wholesale prices, housing about 4,000 distinctive stores in its arena. Comprising of Dragon Mart 1 and Dragon Mart 2, the extensive mall is one of the best places for shopping and dining in Dubai.

34. Dubai Butterfly Garden

Situated at the the Dubai Miracle Garden, the Dubai Butterfly Garden is the world's largest, housing 15 thousand butterflies and around 50 various species of butterflies all bearing different colours, features and shape. With its butterfly Museum, Educational Centre and Cinema, the Dubai Butterfly Garden provides a great opportunity for the visitors to learn more about the advancement of butterflies through each stage making it an ideal place to visit with kids.

35. Dubai Creek

This Saltwater Creek is one of the major ports of UAE and divides the city into two parts and connects the trading port to the desert. Extended to the Persian Gulf and the wildlife sanctuary, this waterway acts as a commercial lifeline as it facilitates not just tourism but also harbours ships, trade and commercial activities. This is a popular place for an evening visit. Witness the lights and music shows, floating and moving dhows, yachts, boats and vessels to get a glimpse of old Dubai during the trade times.

36. Alserkal Avenue

Alserkal Avenue is an arts and culture district in Al Quoz, Dubai. The Alserkal District accommodates several houses for local and global artists, art galleries, museums, performing platforms, design studios and exhibition halls.

37. The Green Planet

Green Planet is an indoor tropical rainforest located at City Walk in Dubai. It is an enclosed ecosystem that gives guests a chance to immerse in the fascinating world of thousands of different species of plants and animals. Here you get to learn about the living ecosystem and experience the ultimate rainforest adventure. The Green Planet also features the world’s largest man-made tree.

38. Laguna Water Park

Dubai's water paradise, Laguna Water Park is nestled in Dubai's finest Beachfront locations of La Mer. It hosts a series of thrilling and exhilarating water rides for the adventurer in you. Other than water rides, you can indulge in shopping at the retail outlets and savor on the variety of delicious food at eateries like Roti Rollers, Zou Zou restaurant and more.

OliOli located on Sheikh Zayed Road, is an interactive play area for children. While the galleries create a fun, joyful and safe atmosphere, they also create a learning space where children can explore topics like Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics (STEAM).

40. Museum of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions in Dubai gives you a sensory experience that defies logic. With over 80 interactive exhibits spread over 450 square metres, this museum offers adults and children an experience to enjoy the different illusions, exhibits, and brain teasers. The interesting Museum of Illusions is part of an international museum chain that initially began in Zagreb, Croatia in 2015. The Dubai museum is the largest one yet and has been curated by a team of architects and designers. They are based on fields like science, psychology, biology and even simple math, to create thrilling illusions.

41. Dubai Coffee Museum

Dubai’s Coffee Museum is a coffee lover’s paradise tucked away in Al Fahidi heritage hub neighborhood in Bur Dubai. The eccentric museum brings coffee lovers and the coffee culture together under a roof for the love of the cup of brewed Joe (Coffee). The robust home of Coffee Museum showcases the coffee bean journey from around the world, how it was discovered back in time. The visitors are often greeted with a warm cup of Java and popcorns when they enter the museum, as a courtesy to the Arab culture of hospitality.

42. Atlantis the Palm

With a private sandy beach and 5-star amenities, Atlantis is the first ever resort to be built on the Palm Jumeirah Island in Dubai. Offering mesmerizing views of the Arabian Gulf and being themed on the myth of Atlantis, this resort inculcates a few distinct Arabian elements. Providing unique features such as an underwater aquarium and swimming with dolphin opportunities, Palm Atlantis is surely one of the world’s most popular attraction destination for tourists.

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1. burj khalifa.

Burj Khalifa Night View. Sergei Gussev , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

2. Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall. Guilhem Vellut from Annecy, France , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

3. Dubai Fountain

4. palm jumeirah.

Palm Jumeirah. Ank Kumar , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

5. Atlantis, The Palm

6. burj al arab.

Burj Al Arab. Marco Becerra from Lewisville, TX, USA , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

7. Dubai Miracle Garden

8. dubai creek, 9. dubai museum.

Dubai Museum. Steven Lek , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

10. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

11. global village.

Global Village Dubai. MuhammadYassal , CC BY-SA 4.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

12. Ski Dubai

13. wild wadi waterpark.

Wild Wadi Waterpark. Edgar El , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

14. Motiongate Dubai

15. img worlds of adventure.

IMG Worlds of Adventure. Jeremy Thompson , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

16. Dubai Desert Safari

Dubai Desert Safari. Rob Young from United Kingdom , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

18. Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Souk Madinat Jumeirah. giggel , CC BY 3.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

19. The Walk at JBR

The Walk at JBR. Fabio Achilli from Milano, Italy , CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons

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Hamisi comes from a storytelling childhood and finds joy in weaving narratives that resonate greatly with his audience. Fascinated by the intricacies of mind and universe, his passion has seen him write compelling articles ranging from sport, history and culture, to the fascinating world of health, science and technology. He played field hockey when in high school and had the opportunity to represent Kenya internationally. Some of the sportsmen that inspire him are Maradona (Football), Jonah Lomu (Rugby) Peter Akatsa (Hockey), and Michael Jordan (Basketball).

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20 Mind-Blowing Experiences Unique To Dubai

Published: September 3, 2024

by Wilone Theriault

Dubai is a city like no other, offering experiences that will leave you amazed. From the world's tallest building to indoor skiing in the desert, Dubai has something for everyone. Imagine standing atop the Burj Khalifa , gazing at the sprawling city below, or shopping in the luxurious Dubai Mall with its endless array of stores and attractions. For thrill-seekers, there's Skydiving over the Palm Jumeirah or dune bashing in the vast Arabian Desert . Families can enjoy the wonders of Dubai Aquarium or the fun-filled IMG Worlds of Adventure . Whether you're an adventurer, a shopper, or someone who loves unique experiences, Dubai promises unforgettable memories.

1. Burj Khalifa: Touch the Sky

Dubai's skyline wouldn't be complete without the iconic Burj Khalifa . Standing at 828 meters, it’s the tallest building in the world. Visitors can take an elevator ride to the observation deck on the 148th floor for a breathtaking view of the city.

2. Dubai Mall: Shopper's Paradise

Next to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall offers more than just shopping. It’s home to an indoor ice rink, an aquarium, and even a virtual reality park. Spend a day exploring its 1,200 shops and numerous attractions.

3. Desert Safari: Adventure Awaits

Experience the thrill of a desert safari . Ride over sand dunes in a 4×4, try sandboarding, and end the evening with a traditional Bedouin camp dinner under the stars.

4. Palm Jumeirah: Man-Made Marvel

Palm Jumeirah is an artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree. It’s a feat of engineering and home to luxury hotels, including the famous Atlantis, The Palm. Take a monorail ride for a unique perspective.

5. Dubai Fountain: Water Dance

Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain performs daily shows set to music. The water jets shoot up to 150 meters, creating a mesmerizing display of light and sound.

6. Ski Dubai: Snow in the Desert

Inside the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai offers a winter wonderland with real snow. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or even meeting penguins in this indoor ski resort .

7. Dubai Marina: Waterfront Wonder

Dubai Marina is a bustling waterfront area with skyscrapers, restaurants, and shops. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade or enjoy a dinner cruise to see the city lights.

8. Jumeirah Beach: Sun and Sand

Relax at Jumeirah Beach , a pristine stretch of white sand with clear blue waters. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying water sports.

9. Dubai Creek: Historical Heart

Dubai Creek is where the city’s history began. Take an abra (traditional boat) ride across the creek, visit the Dubai Museum, and explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood.

10. Global Village: Cultural Extravaganza

Global Village is a seasonal attraction that showcases cultures from around the world. Enjoy pavilions representing different countries, live performances, and a variety of cuisines.

11. Dubai Opera: Cultural Hub

Dubai Opera hosts a range of performances, from opera and ballet to concerts and theater. Its dhow-shaped design is a nod to the city’s maritime history.

12. Miracle Garden: Floral Fantasy

Dubai Miracle Garden is the world’s largest natural flower garden. Wander through a colorful landscape featuring over 50 million blooms arranged in stunning designs.

13. Alserkal Avenue: Art District

Alserkal Avenue is Dubai’s contemporary art hub. Explore galleries, creative spaces, and cultural events in this vibrant district.

14. Dubai Aquarium: Underwater World

Located in the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium houses thousands of aquatic animals. Walk through the 48-meter tunnel for an immersive underwater experience.

15. The Dubai Frame: Picture Perfect

The Dubai Frame offers panoramic views of both old and new Dubai. This architectural landmark is shaped like a giant picture frame, symbolizing the city’s past and future.

16. La Mer: Beachfront Bliss

La Mer is a trendy beachfront destination with shops, restaurants, and water activities. Relax on the beach or enjoy the vibrant street art and murals.

17. IMG Worlds of Adventure: Theme Park Fun

IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world’s largest indoor theme park. It features rides and attractions based on popular characters from Marvel and Cartoon Network.

18. Dubai Parks and Resorts: Entertainment Galore

Dubai Parks and Resorts is home to multiple theme parks, including Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and Legoland. It’s a family-friendly destination with something for everyone.

19. The Green Planet: Tropical Oasis

The Green Planet is a bio-dome that recreates a tropical rainforest. Discover exotic plants and animals in this lush, indoor ecosystem.

20. Al Marmoom Camel Race Track: Traditional Sport

Experience the excitement of camel racing at the Al Marmoom Camel Race Track . Watch these magnificent animals compete in a sport deeply rooted in Emirati culture.

Dubai's Unique Adventures Await

Dubai offers experiences you won't find anywhere else. From skydiving over Palm Jumeirah to dining in the world's tallest building , there's something for everyone. Desert safaris give you a taste of traditional Bedouin life, while indoor skiing at the Mall of the Emirates lets you hit the slopes in the desert. Luxury shopping and cultural tours provide a mix of modern and historic. Water parks and beaches offer fun in the sun, and theme parks like IMG Worlds of Adventure bring excitement for all ages. Helicopter tours give a bird's-eye view of the city's stunning architecture. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a relaxation lover , Dubai has it all. Plan your trip to experience these mind-blowing activities. Your unforgettable adventure in Dubai is just a flight away.

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15 Top Places To Visit In Dubai On A Budget (Under 200 AED)

Table of Contents

If traveling is the food for your soul and budget traveling is just what the doctor has prescribed for you, then come and visit Dubai. Explore the best of the places in Dubai on a shoestring budget. Here is how to save money in Dubai as a tourist. Read on to know more. Simply fantastic!

15 Top Places To Visit In Dubai On Budget (Under 200 AED)

1. jumeirah mosque.

This attractive and monumental model is one of the top Dubai attractions that heartily welcomes non-Muslims too. Visit this mosque during the early evening hours for the best experiences.

• Entry Fee: FREE!
• Timings: 10:00 am to 8:00 pm Daily. Guided tours from 10:00 am except Friday

2. Zabeel Park

This massive park is equivalent to the size of 45 football grounds and features numerous species of trees plants and flowers. Get the best of flora experiences here.

• Entry Fee: Free! But there is an entry fee for the attraction inside the park, Dubai Frame: AED 50 (Adult) AED 2 (Child – 3 to 12 years). Entry is free for a child below the age of 3 and senior citizens
• Timings: Sunday to Wednesday from 8:00 am – 10:00 pm, Thursday to Saturday from 8:00 am – 11:00 pm

3. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Get amazed in the underwater tunnel of the most exotic places to visit in Dubai on budget. Make an eye-to-eye bond with the sharks, electric rays, and feel the astonishment.

• Entry Fee: Starting from AED 145 only
• Timings: 10:00am to 12:00am daily

4. The Dubai Fountain

Witness the remarkable fountain dance with glittering lights and energetic sound of splashing water at the Dubai Fountain. Whether you are visiting Dubai on a budget or not, this is a not-to-be-missed experience.

• Entry Fee: AED 20 per person
• Timings: 7:00 am to 11:00 pm Daily

5. Coffee Museum Dubai

Inhale the aroma of coffee in the very air of this place. This museum is a dedication to authentic coffee explorers. Get the taste of freshly roasted historic drinks here.

• Entry: FREE!
• Timings: Saturday to Thursday from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Friday- closed

6. Dubai Dolphinarium

Watch the live dance of Dolphins, and get a glimpse of their innocent acts, also watch them playing with the balls. Adorable isn’t it?

• Entry Fee:  AED 30 for tourists, AED 5 for UAE residents
• Timings: Monday to Saturday from 10:00 am – 7:30 pm, Sunday-closed

7. Bollywood Parks Dubai

This Bollywood themed park will entertain your family with many rides, stunt shows, performances, songs, dance and a lot more.

• Entry Fee: AED 99 for everyone and free for children below the age of 3
• Timings: 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm daily

8. Dubai Spice Souk

This traditional market is filled with the scent of the finest spices that are used to prepare mouth-watering dishes. Take back home an assortment of these as it’s a total value-for-money.

• Timings: Saturday to Thursday from 10:00am – 10:00pm, Friday from 4:00pm – 10:00pm

9. Dubai Miracle Garden

The miracle garden in Dubai is a concoction of varied colorful flowers and tall green trees. As you enter the largest man-made gardens on the globe, your lungs fill with the sweet fragrances in the air. 

• Entry Fee: AED 40 (adults), AED 30 (children aged between 3 and 12), free (kids below 2 years)
• Timings: Sunday to Thursday from 9:00 am – 9:00 pm, Friday and Saturday from 9:00 am – 11:00 pm

10. Ski Dubai

Play in the frosty snow and watch the show of naive and lovable penguins. This is a must-visit place, especially if you are holidaying in Dubai on a budget with kids and family.

• Entry Fee: Starting from AED 179
• Timings: Sunday to Wednesday from 10:00am – 11:00pm, Thursday from 10:00am – 12:00am and Friday from 9:00am – 12:00am

11. Lego land Dubai

This Lego-themed park is the perfect place to go in Dubai on budget with kids. Prepare for a day full of entertainment, games, and sheer fun.

• Entry Fee: AED 155 (adults). Free Entry for children aged 3-12 on their birth date and free entry for children below 2 years
• Timings: Saturday to Wednesday from 10:00 am – 6:00 pm, Thursday and Friday from 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

12. Global Village Dubai

The one-stop destination for shopping enthusiasts, food buffs, entertainment seekers, and a lot more. Relish local delicacies on the go.

• Entry Fee: AED 15
• Timings: Saturday to Wednesday from 4:00 pm – 12:00 am, Thursday and Friday from 4:00 pm-1:00 am

13. Jumeirah Public Beach

Walk on the white sandy beach and admire the colored canvas of the sky in the evening with your loved one. All this along with the authentic taste of Middle Eastern delicacies at the local restaurants by the beach.

• Timings: Monday is only children and women from 7:30 am – 5:30 pm | Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday, and Sunday from 7:30 am – 10:00 pm | Thursday and Friday 7:30 am – 11:00 AM

14. Dubai Mall

Quench your shopping cravings at the Dubai Mall. The place is filled with numerous shopping outlets, so get the best of the retail experiences here. An ideal spot for window shopping at its best!

• Entry Fee: Free!
• Timings: Every day 10 am – 12 am

15. Diera Perfume Souk

This is the one-stop destination for all the perfume and fragrance lovers and surely one of the priceless places to visit in Dubai on a budget trip. Buy souvenirs and take the bag of happiness home.

• Timings: 10:00 am – 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm daily

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Exploring Dubai on a Budget: 7 Affordable Must-Visit Places

D ubai, often associated with luxury and opulence, may seem like an expensive destination, but there are plenty of budget-friendly activities and attractions to enjoy in this vibrant city. Whether you're a savvy traveler or just looking to save some money, here are seven must-visit places in Dubai that won't break the bank:

Read More: Top 5 Travel Destinations for UAE Travellers

Global Village:

More than 90 distinct foreign cultures are together in one location at Dubai's Global Village, a feast of culture and entertainment. Indulge in a range of reasonably priced world cuisines, take in live performances, browse exclusive memento shops, and tour different pavilions. For just AED 15 (about USD 4), visitors may enter Global Village, making it an excellent deal for a fun-filled day.

    Exploring Dubai on a Budget: 7 Affordable Must-Visit Places e7awi 1 Exploring Dubai on a Budget: 7 Affordable Must-Visit Places

Winter Garden:

The Winter Garden at Habtoor Palace brings the city to life with radiant, shimmering streets and joyful faces. Enjoy delicious cuisine, snap festive photos, and have a ton of fun at the seasonal market. Entrance fee is just AED 25 (around USD 6.81) but it is totally redeemable on food or drinks that you want!

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Exploring Dubai on a Budget: 7 Affordable Must-Visit Places e7awi 1 Exploring Dubai on a Budget: 7 Affordable Must-Visit Places

Dubai Spice Souk:

Nestled in the center of Deira, the Dubai Spice Souk awakens the senses to a world of exotic sensations and scents. With its brilliant displays of multicolored spices, herbs, and dried fruits, this crowded market is a sensory overload. Explore the scented booths along the small passageways and bargain with the amiable sellers. It's a terrific location to stock up on real tastes for your culinary journeys because a broad variety of spices are available at reasonable costs, but pricing can vary. 

Dubai Safari Park:

Dubai Safari Park offers an exciting wildlife experience with a variety of animals from around the world. It's an affordable way to get up close to exotic creatures. Admission prices start at AED 50 (approximately USD 13.61), and it's a fantastic option for a family-friendly day out.

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Careem Bikes – Kite Beach or Downtown:

Careem Bikes is a bike-sharing service in Dubai that allows you to explore the city at your own pace. Renting a bike is affordable, with prices starting at AED 15 (around USD 4) per hour. Take a leisurely ride along Kite Beach's picturesque coastline or through the iconic Downtown area.

Dubai Creek:

Dubai Creek is the historic heart of the city, and a visit to this area is a budget-friendly way to soak up some culture. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, explore the vibrant markets (souks), and even take an affordable traditional Abra boat ride for just AED 1 (around USD 0.27).

Dubai Safari:

Take a thrilling Dubai Desert Safari to experience the captivating desert landscapes for a new sort of adventure. Get up close and personal with the Bedouin culture and beautiful dunes. Desert safari costs might change based on the kind and length of the trip. AED 150 (about USD 41) per person is usually the starting price for a simple desert safari, which might include sandboarding, camel riding, dune bashing, and a delectable BBQ meal served beneath the starry desert sky. For those looking for an amazing desert experience and the ideal family-friendly day out, it's a great deal.

Here are a few tour group options to choose from:

Arabian Adventures:

Desert Safari Dubai:

Platinum Heritage:

These operators offer a range of desert safari packages, from basic to luxury, allowing you to choose the experience that best suits your budget and preferences. It's an excellent value for those seeking an unforgettable desert adventure and a perfect family-friendly day out.

Dubai is a city that offers many of affordable alternatives to see its sights without going over budget. You can see the finest of Dubai without breaking the bank by organizing your trip around these reasonably priced attractions. So, pack your bags and get ready to discover the budget-friendly side of this incredible city.

This article was posted on UAEMoments

FACT Awards 2024

Fact Awards 2024

30 fantastic things to do in Dubai this September

Here’s how to make the most of the month ahead.

It’s the start of a new month, which means it’s time to fill up your cultural calendar. Whether you want to go dancing, dining or drinking, there are lots of fun things to do in Dubai this September. From destination dining to concerts and family fun – we have something exciting for you every day this month.

Sunday 1 September

Enjoy the art of aperitivo

Dubai’s newest Italian sensation,  TOTÓ , is making waves with its exciting new aperitivo experience. In collaboration with football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, tennis superstar Rafael Nadal, and LA Lakers champion Pau Gasol, TOTÓ invites guests to unwind after a long day with its unbeatable aperitivo offer. For just AED 50, enjoy a selection of crafted cocktails and refreshing beverages paired with a choice of bar bites. Available daily from 5pm to 8pm. AED 50 per drink.

GO: Visit  www.totorestaurants.com for more information. 

Monday 2 September

Have lunch at Signor Sassi

Signor Sassi is marking the arrival of its weekday lunch with the Andiamo A Pranzo menu. Translated as “Let’s go to lunch,” this offer includes a three-course menu of Signor Sassi signatures. Indulge in the Soup of the Day or Aubergine Parmigiana before enjoying Pizzetta Margherita, Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, Scottish Salmon Fillet or the Veal Lemon Escalope. Complete your meal with a refreshing Lemon Sorbet or the show-stopping Tiramisu. Available Monday to Friday, from 12pm to 3pm. AED 145 per person (one starter, one main course and one dessert).

GO: Call  04 278 4848 for reservations and more information.

Tuesday 3 September

Roll like a pro

Salvaje will offer a Sushi Masterclass this month. During the immersive two-hour experience, participants will learn the art of crafting an array of signature rolls like the Dinamita, Kappamaki, Salmon Temaki and Spicy Tuna. Attendees will also enjoy signature bites, including Beef Tacos, Mushroom Dumplings and Salmon Crispy Rice to fuel the evening before receiving a complimentary gift bag and apron to take home. Available on Tuesday, 3 September at 6pm. AED 450 per person

GO: Visit https://salvajedubai.com for reservations and more information.

Wednesday 4 September

Try the new menu at Row on 45

Row on 45, the newly crowned two-Michelin-starred restaurant from British Chef Jason Atherton, has launched a new menu crafted for just 22 discerning guests per seating. The 17-course haute cuisine menu features Amaebi (sweet shrimp served with Amela tomato jelly), Crab on Toast, Frøya Scallops, Saroma A5 Wagyu and Shizuoka Musk Melon. Presented in three acts, this memorable meal begins in the Champagne Lounge and ends in the Chef’s Library of this penthouse-inspired restaurant. AED 1,145 per person.

GO: Visit www.rowon45dubai.com for reservations and more information.

Thursday 5 September

Sip and dip at the new COVEBEACH

Dubai, put your hands in the air if you like to party.  COVEBEACH has moved from Bluewaters to JBR and brings with it a restaurant, bar, beach and party vibes. SIERRA by COVEBEACH is the brand’s new restaurant, which includes a sushi bar, fish market and dry-ager. Elsewhere, The Moët pool is open to guests of all ages and includes cabanas and sunbeds. After the summer, COVEBEACH will open an adults-only pool with private cabana pools, beachside lounges and seating.

GO: Call  050 454 6920 for more information.

Friday 6 September

Shake it off at a Taylor Swift brunch

While fans in the UAE are still hoping for news of The Eras Tour gracing the region, a Taylor Swift brunch has been confirmed for Dubai. Taking place at Papa Dubai and backed by Design and Dine, the brunch will kick off with a painting workshop. Here, you’ll get a chance to create a Taylor Swift-inspired painting. For food, the brunch will feature items inspired by the singer’s musical journey. You may just find the  Blank Space cake on the dessert table. As part of the brunch, you can also indulge in two hours of unlimited Taylor Swift-inspired cocktails while listening to the singer’s new and old songs. Available on Friday, 6 September from 7pm to 10pm. AED 440 per person

GO: Visit  @designanddine.ae on Instagram for more information.

Saturday 7 September

Experience Saturday Service at The Guild

Michelin Guide Dubai’s Opening of the Year 2024 has introduced a new lunchtime affair featuring a menu of classic and innovative dishes. Entrées include Half Dozen Amélie Oysters and Wagyu Beef Carpaccio. Main courses feature Grilled Market Fish, Spinach and Kale Risotto and Wood-Fired Australian Black Angus Steak Frites. Desserts are crafted by The Guild’s pâtissier, barista, and in-house chocolatier, offering delights like Crème Caramel and Tiramisu, made with The Guild’s single-origin coffee, mascarpone, and Valrhona chocolate. Available on Saturdays from 12pm to 4pm. AED 250 per person.

GO: Visit  www.theguilddubai.com for reservations and more information.

Sunday 8 September

Check out Soju Gogi Weekends at Hoe Lee Kow

Hoe Lee Kow, the latest innovative dining venture by  Chef Reif Othman , has launched Soju Gogi Weekends, which involve unlimited soju, cocktails, beers, and a platter of Hoe Lee Kow’s finest grills. Soju (a Korean alcoholic drink made from rice) and Gogi (meaning meat in Korean) Weekends blends the vibrant flavours of Korean BBQ with the creativity and flair of Chef Reif Othman across a menu of beef bulgogi, chicken bulgogi, grilled mushrooms, and Sut Bul Gui (charcoal-grilled beef). Available on Sundays from 12pm to 11pm. AED 288 per person (two-hour package).

GO: Call  04 255 5142 for reservations and more information.

Monday 9 September

Join the Smoked Room and Orfali Bros collaboration dinner

MICHELIN magic is set to happen, as two Dubai restaurants with one MICHELIN Star are joining forces. Dani Garcia from Smoked Room Dubai and Mohamad Orfali from Orfali Bros will create a menu that takes you around the world. Diners can try signature dishes from both concepts and enjoy flavours from Andalusia, Japan, Aleppo, France, and influences from Italy and Spain. Available on Monday, 9 September at 6pm and 9pm. AED 1,200 per person

GO: Visit  https://grupodanigarcia.com  for more information. 

Tuesday 10 September

Celebrate the mid-autumn Festival

Shang Palace at Shangri-La Dubai invites guests to celebrate the mid-autumn Festival with a memorable meal that captures the heart of this beloved tradition. Known for its focus on joyful reunions and shared moments under the moonlight, the festival will be marked with a special set menu and a selection of artisanal mooncakes. This menu features dishes that reflect the spirit of the festival, making it the perfect choice for families and friends to come together and celebrate. Available from 10 to 17 September. AED 268 per person.

GO: Email [email protected] for reservations and more information.

Wednesday 11 September

Swing into action

Spanning more than 32,038 square feet, Five Iron Golf is now open at Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina. The mega entertainment venue contains 17 golf simulators, which are great for pros and beginners. The venue also boasts views of Dubai Marina and includes four bars, a beach-inspired bunker bar, and a nine-hole mini golf course. Plus, a VIP members-only lounge that includes table games, a sauna, and a gym.

GO: Visit  https://fiveirongolf.com for more information.

Thursday 12 September

Watch Chicago The Musical

Abu Dhabi, you’re in for a musical marvel.  Chicago The Musical is bringing glitz and glam to the capital. Set during the 1920s,  Chicago looks at the idea of celebrity criminals .  The story follows two murderers, Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly, who find themselves in jail together. Roxie is a housewife, and Velma is a vaudevillian performer. The songs include  All That Jazz, When You’re Good to Mama,  and Mister Cellophane. In 2022,  Chicago  was turned into a film production starring Catherine Zeta-Jones, Renee Zellweger and Richard Gere. Tickets start from AED 200 and are on sale now.

GO: Visit  https://abu-dhabi.platinumlist.net for more information. 

Friday 13 September

See Enrique Iglesias live in Dubai

Do you need a hero? Well, you may just find that in the form of  Enrique Iglesias . The Latin superstar has announced that he is performing at Coca-Cola Arena on 13 September. We’re hoping that Enrique sings his famous hits, from  Bailamos to  Hero . He was born in Madrid, Spain to the Spanish singer Julio Iglesias and Filipino journalist Isabel Preysler. When he launched his career, he originally had a pseudonym, so that he could distance himself from his father. Today, he is one of the best-selling Latin music artists, as he has sold more than 70 million records worldwide.

GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for tickets and more information.

Saturday 14 September

Have a smashing time

Do you know what Greeks say when they break a plate? Opa. If you can’t make your way to Greece, here’s the next best thing, OPA’s Summer Brunch. Running from 12pm to 4pm on 14 September, it takes place at the Fairmont Hotel Sheikh Zayed. The menu showcases Greek classics, and spans hot and cold starters, salads and mains. The sharing-style starters include Crispy Lamb Hummus, Tzatziki and Spicy Feta. Main courses range from Fresh Roasted Sea Bass to Grilled Marinated Chicken Kontosouvli. Expect live entertainment and Zorba dancing. And, you can break a plate (or three).

GO: Follow  @opadubai on Instagram for more information.

Sunday 15 September

Spend a night at the opera

Aida is returning to Dubai Opera for the opening of its 2024-25 season. Presented by the Polish National Opera and directed by Roberto Laganà Manoli, Giuseppe Verdi’s iconic masterpiece tells the tale of an Ethiopian princess who is enslaved by the Egyptians and falls in love with a military commander, sparking a tragic love triangle with the pharaoh’s daughter.

Monday 16 September

See Andy Warhol’s Pop Art pieces

Andy Warhol’s work has been spotted everywhere, from the walls of New York galleries to cans of soup. Now it is making its way to the Foundry in Dubai, as the exhibition  Andy Warhol: The Glam Factory   opens from 16 September to 31 October 2024. This is a rare chance to see some of Warhol’s most famous paintings and prints in Dubai. The exhibition, which is dedicated to the works of the King of Pop Art, will feature a selection of Warhol’s works from 1954 to 1987, including his iconic Marilyn Monroe portraits. Visitors will be able to explore the art style that revolutionised the 20th century. Remember those colourful cartoon photos that took over Facebook and Orkut profiles in the early 2000s? That’s pop art, pioneered by Warhol.

GO: Visit  https://feverup.com for more information.

Tuesday 17 September

Have lunch at Zuma

Whether visiting for dinner, drinks, brunch, or a business lunch, a trip to the FACT award-winning  Zuma is always a pleasurable experience. Their popular business lunch, also known as the Ebisu menu, features one miso soup, a choice of two starters and one main course from a special menu of signature dishes. Don’t miss the Beef Tataki with Truffle Ponzu, Grilled Australian Wagyu Rib Eye with Truffle Sauce, or the Miso Marinated Black Cod Don Buri. Available Monday to Thursday, from 12pm to 2pm. AED 159 per person (miso soup, two starters and one main course) or AED 81 per person (miso soup and one main course).

GO: Call  04 425 5660 for reservations or more information.

Wednesday 18 September

Cause some Chaos

If driving down Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road gets you frustrated, give  Chaos Karts a spin. This real-life Mario Kart experience in Al Quoz uses state-of-the-art technology and augmented reality, which recreates a video game experience. Drivers will ride around a projected track, and battle it out to become the winner. Competitors gain points by collecting jewels or using power-ups, which range from a laser gun to a speed boost. 

GO: Visit  https://chaoskarts.ae for more information.

Thursday 19 September

Get your skates on

Roll DXB brings a roller disco to Dubai for the ultimate old-school activity with retro vibes. Located in Mina Rashid, the space welcomes rollerskaters of all ages and levels and guests can rent retro skates onsite and even take lessons to develop all the fundamental skills and learn some dance moves on wheels.

Visit  www.rolldxb.com for more information.

Friday 20 September

See K-Pop sensation Suho

K-pop acts are descending on Dubai, and South Korean star  Suho is set to perform at The Agenda in Dubai Media City on 20 September. Suho is the lead singer of the K-pop group EXO. In 2020, he released his solo EP,  Self-Portrait , and its lead single was  Let’s Love . In 2022, he released his second album,  Grey Suit . He has also starred in film and TV shows including  How Are U Bread, One Way Trip, Rich Man and  The Universe’s Star .

GO: Visit  https://platinumlist.net for more information.

Saturday 21 September

Dance until dawn at Terra Solis by Tomorrowland

Returning for a third season, Terra Solis by Tomorrowland will be headlined by Chris Avantgarde . For those unversed in the artist, he is a powerhouse in the electronic music scene and a familiar face at Tomorrowland. He is known for his electrifying tracks like Inside, Mind Control and The Last Time. Other names performing on throughout the season include Agents of Time, Alok, Claptone, Indo Warehouse, Kevin De Vries, Lost Frequencies, Mahmut Orhan and Solardo.

GO: Visit www.terrasolisdubai.com for more information.

Sunday 22 September

Hike the UAE’s longest mountain trail

If you love the great outdoors, then you’ve probably ventured to Hatta. But the mountain enclave recently upped its game and is now home to the Hatta Mountain Trails , the longest in the country. These new trails offer 21 cycling routes and 17 walking trails that stretch across 33km. But that’s not all as there are also nine wooden bridges, 14 rest stops, and a range of service facilities designed to make your adventure even more enjoyable. The Hatta Mountain Trails are divided into four colour-coded levels of difficulty.

GO: Visit  www.visithatta.com for more information.

Monday 23 September

Experience a taste of Italy

Step into Al Fresco Restaurant and discover the true essence of Italy, where the art of pizza-making takes centre stage. This cosy eatery at Millennium Plaza Downtown Hotel is celebrated for its creative pizzas and traditional pastas, providing a relaxed dining atmosphere that’s ideal for both family meals and business gatherings. Current offers include a Margherita Combo, wine and cheese pairings, and special discounts on summer wine and pizza deliveries.

GO: Visit https://wa.me/+971543057622 for reservations and more information.

Tuesday 24 September

Make a splash at Wild Wadi Waterpark

School might be back in session but humid summers are still upon us. To beat the heat, a visit to Wild Wadi Waterpark promises tons of action for the whole family. Chill at the Breaker’s Bay wave pool or slide down the Jumeirah Sceirah, this waterpark promises a fun-packed day out for all. 

GO: Visit https://dubai.platinumlist.net for more information.

Wednesday 25 September

Try the new menu at Honeycomb Hi-Fi

On his most recent visit to Dubai, Executive Chef Matt Abergel introduced an array of exciting new creations to  Honeycomb Hi-Fi’s menu. The vibrant new options include Pak Choy Gomae (AED 42), a chilled vegetable dish with cashew and sesame dressing, and binchotan grilled Asparagus (AED 40) topped with panko and garlic soy butter for an added crunch. For dessert, the Hojicha Yama (AED 40) offers a delightful blend of hojicha ice cream, tuiles, and namelaka. Elsewhere, the Limited-Release Menu, known for its exclusive offerings with limited portions available each night, now includes standout dishes like Yellowtail Tartar (AED 98) and Mentaiko Udon (AED 110).

GO: Visit  www.honeycombhifi.com for reservations and more information.

Thursday 26 September

Try the new menu at Moonrise

Moonrise, Dubai’s acclaimed 12-seater chef’s table, has launched a new 12-course menu from Chef Solemann Haddad. Known for its innovative fusion of Middle Eastern and Japanese flavours, Moonrise blends culinary mastery with a touch of 90s nostalgia. It has become one of the places to eat in Dubai. Tuck into new dishes such as Market Prawns, Muskmelon & Labnah, Sarookh & Turbot, Shima Aji & Tomato, alongside old favourites like Explosion (Foie gras puri) and the famed Grilled Cheese. Available Tuesday to Saturday with seatings at 6pm and 9:30pm. AED 950 per person (food only).

GO: Visit  www.moon-rise.xyz for reservations and more information.

Friday 27 September

Sing along with Carla Bruni at Dubai Opera

Carla Bruni will perform at Dubai Opera on 27 September. She was a fashion model and singer and later became the First Lady of France when she married the then President, Nicolas Sarkozy. She previously wrote songs for Julien Clerc and featured on his album. In 2003, she released her debut album,  Quelqu’un M’a Dit . Over her career, she has sold five million albums.

GO: Visit  www.dubaiopera.com for more information.

Saturday 28 September

Tuck into the tempting brunch at TATEL

Arguably Dubai’s hottest reservation right now, TATEL has launched a new Entre Amigos brunch. Expect live entertainment from DJ Gina, percussionist Matteo and sharing-style dishes, including Arroz Con Pulpo, Croquetas, Tortilla TATEL and TATEL’s world-famous Tarta de Queso. Available on Saturdays from 1pm to 4pm, and starts from AED 375 (soft beverages), AED 465 (house beverages), AED 495 (premium beverages) and AED 725 (Champagne).

GO: Visit  https://tatelrestaurants.com for more information. 

Sunday 29 September

Experience Miss Lily’s new Breakfast Club

Dubai’s beloved Caribbean hotspot is turning up the heat this season with the popular “Breakfast Club Series.” Tuck into your favourite Jamaican dishes while enjoying a night of incredible music brought to life by the dynamic House of Yanos. Renowned for introducing the soulful beats of South Africa’s Amapiano and AfroTech to Dubai, House of Yanos has fostered a lively community centred around unity and positivity. Guests can expect an electrifying atmosphere with a rotating lineup of international and guest DJs alongside pop-up stores showcasing capsule collections from emerging streetwear brands. Available on Sundays from 6pm to midnight.

GO: Visit  www.misslilys.com for reservations and more information.

Monday 30 September

Have launch at the highest restaurant on Palm Jumeirah

The  highest restaurant on Palm Jumeirah offers lunchtime diners the chance to take in the view at one of the most in-demand restaurants in town. The two-course Vivo Business Lunch offers the ideal solution for elevated business meetings and social catch-ups. Set to the backdrop of striking 360-degree views of Dubai, expect SUSHISAMBA signature dishes, ranging from seviches and SAMBA rolls to robata delicacies and more. The offer includes miso soup followed by the choice of two starters and one main course. Available Monday to Friday, from 12pm to 3pm. AED 169 per person (two courses).

GO: Visit  www.sushisamba.com for reservations and more information.

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12 must-visit islands in the UAE

Island days are the best kind of days. With nearly 500 islands in the UAE – the emirate of Abu Dhabi has 200 and there are a further 260 in Dubai's manmade The World archipelago – you could spend a day on each and have yourself a very good year indeed. Except, like us, you’ll probably need to swap sunsets for spreadsheets eventually. To help you out, we’ve pulled together this list of the 12 best.

Palm Jumeirah

1. Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

It’s been called the eighth wonder of the world, so it’s fitting that Palm Jumeirah makes our list of the UAE’s best islands. Each of its 30-plus luxury resorts is a destination in itself, but remain in their cocooning embrace and you risk ending up with a major case of fomo. This luxury playground is home to a dazzling array of high-end restaurants (Stay by Yannick Alléno and Trèsind Studio should both be on your list) and hard-to-get-into nightclubs. Or you can push your limits on the Odyssey of Terror, the world’s tallest waterslide – one of 50 at Atlantis Aquaventure waterpark, part of Atlantis, The Palm. But perhaps the best way to take in the Palm’s architectural beauty is from the air. The Dubai Balloon is a tethered helium gondola with aerial views of the archipelago and of the emirate’s distinctive skyline beyond.

Views from Anantara World Islands resort

2. The World Islands, Dubai

Recreating the Earth’s landmasses on the waves was always going to be an audacious proposition, but The World Islands were constructed all the same – and some are open to visitors. Anantara World Islands Resort offers a unique experience in a country awash with superlatives; a short hop away is the adults-only Voco Monaco Dubai, part of The Heart of Europe collection of projects, inspired by the French Riviera. The first to open was Island Dubai on Lebanon island, with restaurants, water sports and beach activities. You can only get to the islands by air or by boat from the Palm, and transport is typically organised by the respective hotels.

The dog-friendly beach at Dubai Islands

3. Dubai Islands, Deira

Estimated to date back to the 1700s, Deira is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Dubai. It’s also home to one of the emirate’s newest developments – the manmade Dubai Islands. Although still a work in progress, the area already hosts a mall and three hotels; the newest, Park Regis by Prince, has an AI concierge for tech fanboys. The area is also home to Dubai's only beach where dogs are allowed in the water. Overall, the development is one of the best places to enjoy a quiet beach day (whether or not you have four-legged friends in tow), minutes away from Dubai’s historic creek and bustling souks.

The mangroves on Sir Bani Yas Island

4. Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

An extraordinary experience awaits on Sir Bani Yas, the UAE’s largest natural island . One of eight desert islands in the Al Dhafra region, it was established as a wildlife reserve in 1977 by Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan, the first president of the UAE, and is now home to more than 17,000 free-roaming animals, including giraffes, hyenas, cheetahs, gazelles and Arabian Oryx. But animal safaris aren't the only outdoor experiences offered by the Anantara properties situated here. Settlers arrived on the sedimentary salt dome several thousand years ago, and 36 archaeological sites provide a distinct insight into the history of humankind. Or skip class and mountain bike through the sandy wadis of this proverbial garden of Eden.

Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

5. Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Thrills of a different sort await on Yas Island , where you can take your pick of heart rate-boosting experiences: the planet’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World; Formula 1 thrills in a high-performance car at Yas Marina Circuit; indoor skydiving at Clymb; or child-like fun at the fully air-conditioned, 1.65-million-square-foot Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi. More sedate but equally rousing for fans of the gentleman’s game: the par-72 championship Yas Links Abu Dhabi golf course.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

6. Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi

There’s culture and then there’s Saadiyat Island , Abu Dhabi’s answer to Berlin’s famous Museum Island. Already open to visitors are Louvre Abu Dhabi, which houses the region’s finest art collection, Berklee Abu Dhabi music school and Manarat Al Saadiyat, a centre for galleries and artistic exchange. Four more cultural experiences are on the way, all designed by world-class architects: Zayed National Museum, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, billed as an immersive journey at the intersection of art and technology. This being an island, there are beaches, of course, and the ever-popular Saadiyat Beach Club . The island is also home to an endangered animal rescue programme focusing on hawksbill sea turtles.

The Galleria, Al Maryah Island

7. Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi's Al Maryah Island is where you head for world-class shopping without the crowds. The island’s Galleria Mall contains a panoply of aspirational brands, from Jimmy Choo, Hermès and Dior, to Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier. Afterwards, take time to unwind at one of the many waterfront restaurants: Zuma, Nusr-Et, Almayass and the Michelin-stared 99 Sushi Bar are among the best.

Abu Dhabi's Dalma Island

8. Dalma Island, Abu Dhabi

Longtime UAE residents will tell you there’s not much to do on Dalma Island, 42 kilometres off Abu Dhabi’s westernmost coast. That depends on what you want to do, of course. Settlements here date back to neolithic times, and Dalma has been a significant pearling centre for centuries. There are at least 20 archaeological sites on the balloon-shaped island, and its principal museum sits in a century-old coral-and-stone building that was once the home of pearl merchant Mohammed Bin Jassim Al Meraikhi. There are also at least three ancient mosques, a desert water network that's hundreds of years old and several geological attractions. You’ll need to take the ferry or book a charter flight, and ring ahead to any attractions.

Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah

9. Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah

Four manmade coral-shaped islets make up Al Marjan Island complex in the northernmost emirate of Ras Al Khaimah . Their luxury hotels are set on a 7.8km stretch between the Arabian Gulf and the Yanis and Jais Mountains, but these UAE islands are also extra special for fans of outdoor activities and adventure sports, with Pullman, Double Tree and Hampton by Hilton hotels all offering activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, waterskiing and wakeboarding, flyboard and fly fishing, as well as deep-sea fishing adventures and scuba diving trips. Within an hour’s drive are the world's longest zipline, the Jais Flight, and the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp, with abseiling, archery and professional survival courses.

Sunset view of Al Noor island

10. Al Noor Island, Sharjah

Fittingly for Sharjah , the UAE's most arts-orientated emirate, Al Noor Island is a cultural retreat within the city. The manageable, child-friendly attraction sited within the Khalid Lagoon offers a relaxing day out. There’s a butterfly vivarium with 500-odd species, a literature pavilion, artistic installations everywhere and a programme of regular art events.

Sira Khorfakkan, Sharjah

11. Sira Khorfakkan, Sharjah

Cross over to the UAE’s underrated east coast for a change of scenery. Shark Island sits off Khorfakkan , an enclave of Sharjah. Sira Khorfakkan, as it’s known locally, is a small promontory encircled by coral reefs. Home to sea anemones and turtles, it’s perfect for snorkellers, but there’s plenty for scuba divers too: moray eels, rays, Arabian angelfish and the blacktip reef sharks that give the rocky isle its name.

Socotra cormorants can be spotted on unspoilt Sinniyah Island

12. Sinniyah Island, Umm Al Quwain

Off the coast of the least-visited emirate is unspoilt Sinniyah Island, a haven for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. Its lush mangroves and shallow mudflats teem with birdlife, including migratory species such as flamingos and herons, as well as the endangered local Socotra cormorant. Ask a travel operator to book you a tour to this tranquil island getaway.