Dubai, the luxurious and glamorous city in the United Arab Emirates that is known for its impressive architecture, high-end shopping, and endless entertainment options. With its stunning skyscrapers, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture, Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Whether you’re interested in shopping at the world’s largest mall, skiing indoors, or experiencing the thrill of a desert safari. The city is home to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and the sail-shaped hotel, the Burj Al Arab.
Dubai is also known for its lively nightlife, with countless bars, nightclubs, and restaurants offering everything from traditional Middle Eastern cuisine to international cuisine from around the world.
If you’re planning a trip to Dubai and wondering about the best time to visit, the top things to see and do, or where to stay, keep reading to find out more. We’ll help you plan the perfect trip to this glittering city in the desert.
The Burj Khalifa
This iconic skyscraper is the tallest building in the world, standing at an impressive 828 meters (2,716 feet) tall. Visitors can take a trip to the observation deck on the 124th floor, which offers stunning panoramic views of Dubai and the surrounding area. The Burj Khalifa is also home to luxury residences, offices, and the Armani Hotel.
The Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in the world, with over 1,200 stores, restaurants, and entertainment options. Visitors can shop for designer clothes, luxury goods, and souvenirs, or take a break at the mall’s many cafes and restaurants. The mall is also home to the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, where visitors can see over 140 species of marine life.
Desert safari
Dubai is located in the middle of the desert, and taking a desert safari is a must-do activity for any visitor. Tour companies offer a range of safari options, including dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and traditional Arabic entertainment such as belly dancing and falconry. Visitors can also experience a Bedouin-style dinner in the desert under the stars.
The Palm Jumeirah
The Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island shaped like a palm tree, located off the coast of Dubai. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the palm tree-shaped boardwalk or explore the many luxury resorts and restaurants on the island. The Palm Jumeirah is also home to the Aquaventure Waterpark, where visitors can enjoy thrilling water slides and attractions.
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Checklist
Dubai is a city that is synonymous with luxury, glamour, and innovation. With world-renowned attractions, high-end shopping, and iconic landmarks, there is no shortage of things to do and see in this city. To help you plan your trip, we’ve compiled a checklist of 10 must-see attractions and experiences in Dubai.
- Burj Khalifa – Take an elevator to the top of the tallest building in the world for stunning views of Dubai’s skyline and beyond. Don’t miss the outdoor observation deck on the 148th floor for an even more breathtaking experience.
- The Dubai Mall – Shopaholics will love this massive mall with over 1,200 stores, including high-end luxury brands. Be sure to visit the aquarium and underwater zoo for an up-close look at marine life.
- The Dubai Fountain – Watch in awe as the world’s largest choreographed fountain show comes to life with water, music, and lights. The show takes place every evening and is completely free.
- The Palm Jumeirah – This man-made island is home to some of the most luxurious hotels and resorts in the world, including Atlantis The Palm. Visit the Aquaventure Waterpark for thrilling water rides or simply relax on the pristine beaches.
- Dubai Miracle Garden – With over 45 million flowers arranged in elaborate patterns and designs, this garden is a feast for the senses. Visit during the cooler months to fully appreciate the beauty of the flowers.
- Dubai Museum – Housed in a 200-year-old fort, this museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the history and culture of Dubai. Don’t miss the section on pearl diving, which was a major industry in Dubai before the discovery of oil.
- Ski Dubai – Escape the desert heat and hit the slopes at this indoor ski resort with real snow. Try your hand at skiing or snowboarding, or simply enjoy a hot chocolate while taking in the winter wonderland.
- Dubai Marina – Take a leisurely stroll along this picturesque waterfront promenade, lined with high-end restaurants, cafes, and shops. Admire the luxurious yachts and enjoy the stunning views of the surrounding skyscrapers.
- The Dubai Miracle Village – This unique sustainable village is made entirely out of recycled materials, including shipping containers and discarded materials. Learn about sustainable living and support this innovative community.
- The Dubai Opera – This world-class venue hosts a variety of music, theater, and dance performances, as well as operas and ballets. Be sure to check the schedule and book tickets in advance to avoid disappointment.
Dubai is a city that truly has it all, with world-renowned attractions, luxurious accommodations, and stunning architecture. By following this checklist of must-see attractions and experiences, you can ensure that your trip to Dubai is an unforgettable one.
Did you know?
History
- Dubai’s history dates back over 4,000 years, with evidence of settlement from the Bronze Age.
- In the 7th century, Dubai was a fishing village known as “Al Wasl” and traded with neighboring settlements.
- Dubai’s strategic location on the trade routes between Asia and Europe made it a key player in the pearl trade in the 19th century.
- Dubai officially became a British protectorate in 1892, although British influence had been present in the region for centuries.
- In the 1930s, oil was discovered in Dubai, transforming the region from a small port town into a modern city.
- Dubai gained independence from Britain in 1971 and became part of the United Arab Emirates.
- Dubai has invested heavily in infrastructure, including the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island.
- Dubai is home to the Dubai Museum, which is housed in the oldest building in Dubai and showcases the city’s history and culture.
- Dubai has a rich Islamic heritage, with many historic mosques and religious sites, such as the Jumeirah Mosque and the Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque.
- Dubai is a cosmopolitan city that celebrates diversity, with many cultural events and festivals, such as the Dubai Shopping Festival and the Dubai Food Festival.
Modern
- The tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa, is located in Dubai and stands at 828 meters (2,716 feet) tall.
- Dubai has an indoor ski resort, Ski Dubai, which is located in the Mall of the Emirates and features real snow and a ski lift.
- The world’s largest shopping mall, the Dubai Mall, is located in Dubai and houses over 1,200 shops and restaurants.
- Dubai is home to the world’s largest man-made island, the Palm Jumeirah, which is shaped like a palm tree and features luxury hotels and villas.
- The Dubai Fountain, located in front of the Burj Khalifa, is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system.
- Dubai is known for its luxury cars, with some of the most expensive and rarest models regularly seen on the streets.
- Dubai is home to the world’s first 7-star hotel, the Burj Al Arab, which is shaped like a sailboat and stands at 321 meters (1,053 feet) tall.
- Dubai is a hub for international business, with many multinational companies choosing to have their regional headquarters in the city.
- The Dubai Miracle Garden is the world’s largest flower garden, featuring over 45 million flowers and 60 different flower species.
- Dubai’s airport, Dubai International Airport, is one of the busiest in the world, with over 86 million passengers passing through in 2019.
Food
- Dubai is home to the world’s largest indoor themed restaurant, the Rainforest Cafe, which is located in the Dubai Mall.
- Camel milk is a popular drink in Dubai, and is even sold in supermarkets.
- The world’s tallest hotel, the JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, has 14 restaurants and bars.
- Dubai has a street food scene, with popular options including shawarma, falafel, and manakish.
- Friday brunch is a popular tradition in Dubai, with many restaurants offering extensive buffets and free-flowing drinks.
- The Dubai Food Festival is an annual event that showcases the city’s diverse culinary offerings.
- The Dubai Miracle Garden features a flower display in the shape of a tea set, made entirely of edible flowers and herbs.
- The Dubai Fountain, one of the city’s top attractions, is synchronized with music and lights and features a show called “Baba Yetu” that celebrates African cuisine.
- The Burj Al Arab hotel is home to the underwater Al Mahara restaurant, which features a large aquarium as its centerpiece.
- Dubai is known for its luxurious dining experiences, with Michelin-starred chefs such as Gordon Ramsay, Nobu Matsuhisa, and Gary Rhodes opening restaurants in the city.
