Dubai really doesn’t need much introduction, with hundreds of thousands of people visiting the city every year. Dubai is, without doubt, one of the most opulent cities in the world, but it’s not just for the ultra-rich. Dubai offers entertainment for all in the form of its many attractions – beaches, museums, zoos, fabulous shopping malls, and so much more. Its ultra-modern high-rise architecture, spas, and resorts draw many to a city that rarely sleeps and never seems to stop growing. Once a sleepy port, Dubai is now one of the most popular places for tourists to visit, and we’re offering you just a snapshot of what you can do when you get there.
- Dubai Miracle Garden
The Miracle Garden, located in Dubailand, is the biggest flower garden in the world and one of Dubai’s most visited attractions. Home to a breathtaking 109 million flowers, it’s worth taking a day out of our schedule to wander around the gardens. Here, you can even find models of some of Dubai’s most distinctive buildings, decked out in flowers, greenery, and lighting.
- Dubai Aquarium
The biggest aquarium in the world can be found in the Dubai Mall, with over 140 different species of aquatic life. A 48-meter long tunnel allows you a glimpse at just some of these species, while the more adventurous of you can take part in shark diving and cage snorkeling activities. Those who want a more leisurely experience can opt for a glass-bottomed boat tour. Whichever way you do it, prepare to be amazed at what you see.
- Global Village
Another popular tourist destination, the Global Village offers an all-night experience. As darkness falls, the lights come on and visitors can enjoy many pavilions offering cultures from several different countries. For example, you could head to the Egypt pavilion and purchase traditional Egyptian dresses (Jalabiyia), or to Oman to purchase fashion Accessories. The China pavilion offers colorful Chinese clothing, while the Africa pavilion offers hand-carved items. And when you are done shopping, head to one of the many restaurants and savor world cuisine before taking in a stage show. All-night entertainment in one place.
- Go Mall Hopping
Dubai offers one of the best shopping experiences in the world and it doesn’t get any better than the largest mall in Dubai. The largest market and shopping center in the country, Dubai Mall offers an international shopping experience with some of the biggest names in the world – Cartier, Burberry, Chanel, Armani, and Louis Vuitton, to name just a few. The mall offers a choice of shopping centers under one roof and you really can shop till you drop here. If the Mall of the Emirates and the Dubai Mall are a little too rich for your tastes, you can head to the Dubai Outlet Mall or the Mercato Mall for a European-style shopping experience. Regardless, the Dubai Mall is worth a visit just to drink in the atmosphere and get a glimpse at where the richest and most affluent people shop.
- Take An Abra Boat Ride
While there are plenty of boat rides on offer in Dubai, one of the best experiences is to hop on an Abra, a traditional Arabian boat. This is one of the most popular forms of public transport and each boat seats about 20 people. On the journey between Deira and Bur Dubai, you get a fantastic view of the city’s skyscrapers and it’s one of the cheapest and most relaxing ways to see the area.
- Watch the Dancing Lights at the Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain is found just below the Burj Khalifa tower and offers one of the most spectacular sights you will see in Dubai. There are several daily light show performances set to about 35 English and Arabian songs, all the lit fountains in perfect synchronization. The water shoots up to 140 meters in the air and if you want a better view, where you can take more photos, take a boat ride on the lake. One of the top attractions in Dubai, this is one place you need to add to your itinerary.
- Visit the Burj Khalifa Tower
Burj Khalifa is a must-visit place in Dubai, a landmark building that offers fantastic views from the 124th floor, birds-eye views over the sparkling ocean on one side, and the desert on the other. 160 floors high, Burj Khalifa is the tallest tower in the world and offers one of the best places to view the city from above.
- Visit the Burj Al Arab Hotel
Burj Al Arab is an expensive 7* hotel, the fourth tallest in the world. Choreographed lighting highlights the hotel in the evenings and it’s a fantastic spot for photographers. But if your budget doesn’t stretch to an unforgettable night or two in the hotel, you can still visit for afternoon tea in one of the many cafes and restaurants. The Skyview Bar on the 27th floor offers a stunning view of the Palm Jumeirah and Sahn Fadder, at the hotel’s base, offers a wonderful view of the tallest atrium in the world.
- Go on a Camel Safari
While Dubai offers a fantastic array of places to visit, one experience you mustn’t miss is a desert safari. Not only can you experience the desert on the traditional form of transport, the camel, but you can also take part in the 4×4 wheels desert dash. The camel ride is perfect for people of all ages, especially the kids and it will create memories that will last forever.
- Head to the Dubai Marina
If you can make time during your visit, the Dubai Marina is well worth a visit. One of the more exotic places to visit in Dubai, the Marina is growing in popularity and is thought to be the largest man-made marina in the world. Not only can you while away the time watching the luxurious yachts, but you can also head to one of the shopping plazas and restaurants around the Marina.
- Stay at the Atlantis Palm Hotel
If your budget is big enough, why not stay at the luxurious 7* Atlantic Palm hotel? One of the most majestic in Dubai, the Atlantic Palm is the epitome of the luxury Dubai is known for. Sometimes called the Royal Towers, the hotel offers one of the best fireworks displays in the world and is believed to host a large number of A-list celebrities. If you can’t afford a stay, at least take the time to visit and watch the fireworks.
- Go to the Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is one of the newest architectural additions to Dubai and is a popular tourist spot. The Frame stands 150 m high and is 93 m wide and is a showcase of the past, the present, and the future of Dubai. Inside, you will find the latest in graphics, animations, and technologies offering a view of what Dubai used to look like and what it will be like in the future. It is the best place in the city to see what Dubai has to offer and how it became what it is today.
As you can see, Dubai has something to offer everyone but these must-see and must-do attractions are sure to make your stay a complete success and an unforgettable journey.