Dubai, the glittering metropolis of the UAE, is a city that never ceases to amaze. From towering skyscrapers and futuristic attractions to historical treasures and cultural experiences, there’s something for everyone. Whether you're an adventure seeker, a luxury traveler, or a culture enthusiast, here are the must-see moments and top things to do in Dubai.
No trip to Dubai is complete without visiting the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest structure, standing at a staggering 828 meters (2,717 feet). Its At the Top observation deck on the 124th floor offers panoramic views of the city, desert, and coastline. For an even more luxurious experience, visit the Sky Lounge on the 148th floor, the highest observation deck in the world.
Next to the Burj Khalifa, you’ll find Dubai Mall, the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the world. In addition to 1,200+ retail stores, it offers unique attractions like the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, an Olympic-sized ice rink, and VR Park for virtual reality games.
Just outside the mall is the Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. Every evening, the fountain comes to life with water jets shooting up to 500 feet, dancing to music and lights.
The iconic Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island shaped like a palm tree, is home to luxury resorts, restaurants, and attractions. At the top of the palm is Atlantis, The Palm, one of Dubai’s most famous hotels. Atlantis offers plenty to explore, including:
For incredible views of the palm, you can take a helicopter tour or hop on the Palm Monorail.
Beyond the city’s skyline, Dubai is surrounded by the stunning Arabian desert. A desert safari is one of the most exciting ways to explore this natural wonder. Safaris typically include activities like:
For an even more immersive experience, try an overnight desert safari under the stars.
For a glimpse of Dubai’s past, head to Old Dubai, where you can explore the city's rich history and culture. Start at the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, a maze of traditional wind-tower houses that date back to the 19th century. Visit the Dubai Museum housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, the city’s oldest building, to learn about Dubai’s transformation from a small fishing village to a global metropolis.
Next, cross the Dubai Creek on a traditional abra boat to the Deira side, where you can wander through the bustling Gold Souk and Spice Souk. These traditional markets offer everything from glittering gold jewelry to aromatic spices.
The Burj Al Arab, the sail-shaped hotel, is one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks and a symbol of luxury. Although it is one of the world’s most exclusive hotels, non-guests can still experience its grandeur by booking a meal at one of its many fine-dining restaurants, such as Al Muntaha on the 27th floor with stunning views of the Arabian Gulf or Al Mahara, the famous underwater restaurant.
In a city known for its desert landscapes, you might be surprised to find Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort located inside the Mall of the Emirates. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a beginner, Ski Dubai offers a snow-filled escape from the desert heat with slopes, a snow park, and even the chance to meet penguins.
The Dubai Frame is one of the city’s newer attractions and offers visitors a chance to experience both the old and new sides of Dubai. Standing at 150 meters tall, the Frame has a glass walkway at the top that connects two towers. From one side, you can view Old Dubai with its low-rise buildings and the creek, and from the other, you can see the modern skyline of New Dubai.
Dubai Marina, home to some of the tallest residential buildings in the world, is a bustling waterfront area filled with restaurants, shops, and luxury yachts. Take a boat tour or dhow cruise along the marina for stunning views of the skyline and surrounding high-rises.
Adjacent to the marina is the JBR Walk, a lively promenade that offers street performances, dining, and entertainment. Visitors can also enjoy the beach at JBR Beach, which offers water sports, lounging, and a view of Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel.
For a more tranquil experience, head to the Dubai Miracle Garden, the world’s largest natural flower garden. With over 150 million blooming flowers arranged in stunning designs and patterns, the garden is a colorful oasis in the desert. Highlights include the Emirates A380 Flower Display, the world’s largest floral sculpture, and the Heart Tunnel.
If you want to experience the cultures of over 90 countries in one place, visit Global Village, an annual multicultural festival park. Open from October to April, it features pavilions from various countries, offering food, crafts, and performances. It’s a fantastic place to sample global cuisine, buy unique souvenirs, and enjoy live entertainment.
Dubai is a city of endless possibilities, where tradition meets modernity, and adventure meets luxury. Whether you're soaring to the top of the Burj Khalifa, skiing indoors, exploring the desert, or discovering the city’s rich heritage, Dubai offers a memorable experience for every kind of traveler.