Dubai, a city of superlatives, offers everything from world-class shopping and dining to breathtaking modern architecture and rich cultural experiences. A boujee city filled with splendours, the things this place has to offer are countless and will keep you coming back for more. Voted the best tourist destination two times in a row by Trip Advisor, a trip to Dubai is a once-in-a-lifetime bucket list experience that you will treasure. This guide highlights the best places to visit in Dubai and some of the things you need to try there.
Palm Jumeirah
No trip to Dubai is complete without visiting the world-famous man-made archipelago, Palm Jumeirah. Completed in 2007, this island, shaped like a palm tree, is one of the most recognised islands in the world. A single day is hardly enough to experience everything this remarkable place has to offer.
Top things to do in Palm Jumeirah
1. For food lovers, the Palm is a paradise, home to six of the country's fourteen Michelin-starred restaurants. Each restaurant here provides a unique dining experience, whether it's enjoying meals on the sandy beaches with views of the Dubai Marina skyline at Koko Bay, savouring the vistas of Palm Jumeirah from Sushi Samba and Nobu, or dining underwater surrounded by 65,000 aquatic animals at Ossiano.
2. The island hosts a collection of ultra-luxurious hotels and resorts with private beaches that ought to be paid a visit to. Jumeirah's Zabeel Saray and the One & Only The Palm both offer a refined and sophisticated experience, ranking among the best resorts in Dubai. The Royal Atlantis, one of the most luxurious hotels in the world, is an architectural marvel on the west crescent of the Palm. Celebrities like Beyoncé have stayed at this stunning hotel, which features suites with private pools and a curated array of bespoke amenities from luxury brands including Hermès, Frette, and Graff. These suites offer awe-inspiring views of the Arabian Gulf, the island, and the skyline, providing a truly unique experience.
3. Aquaventure, the world's largest waterpark, is located on this island and features multiple award-winning slides. Perfect for families or groups of friends, this waterpark is a highlight of Palm Jumeirah. Apart from the thrilling rides guests can also interact with sea lions and dolphins, and even swim with them for an unforgettable experience. The brave-hearted can also take a swim in the shark lagoon, snorkelling with the resident sharks.
4. The Lost Chambers in Atlantis is a series of aquariums showcasing thousands of species of aquatic animals, in a setting reminiscent of the myth of the lost city of Atlantis. Visitors can swim in the Ambassador Lagoon with over 250 species of fish and marine animals and explore the depths of Poseidon's submerged city.
Downtown Dubai
When one thinks of Dubai’s skyline, they're likely picturing Downtown’s skyline. Home to the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, the largest mall, Dubai Mall, and the grand Dubai Fountain, this district is among the top places to visit in the city. Known worldwide for its iconic landmarks, skyscrapers, celebrity sightings, and boulevard walks it is often referred to as the heart of the city.
Top things to do in Downtown Dubai
1. Dubai Mall, one of the largest in the world, is a retail haven featuring international, regional, and local brands spanning fashion, technology, and literature. Beyond shopping, visitors can enjoy dining in style, movies, and unique experiences. For a more curated shopping experience, Souk Al Bahar offers a relaxed ambience with over 100 shops featuring Arabic perfumes, dried fruits, spices, and authentic local brands. The mall alone offers a theme park, arcade, ice rink, go-kart track, and various children’s entertainment venues.
2. The neighbourhood is home to stunning hotels like The Address Sky Views, Palace Downtown, and Kempinski the Boulevard all famous for luxurious stays paired with epic views of the surrounding skyline and unrivalled perspectives of the Burj Khalifa.
3. Dubai Opera hosts international shows, concerts, and events throughout the year, adding to the eclectic cultural scene. The area also features an outdoor gallery showcasing local artists along Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, where you can encounter quirky installations.
4. The neighbourhood is a treasure trove of well-known cafes, fine-dining restaurants, and trendy bars. The famed Time Out Market concept from London adds to the culinary scene at Souq Al Bahar, while Ce La Vie at Address Sky Views shines as a fine dining destination, providing breathtaking views of Dubai. For an elevated dining experience, Atmosphere at Burj Khalifa, the highest restaurant in the world offers awe-inspiring views from the top of the city and Armani Ristorante, a Michelin-starred gem also in the Burj Khalifa, promises exceptional Italian cuisine.
Dubai Marina & Jumeirah Beach Residence
The largest man-made marina in the world Dubai Marina and the nearby Jumeirah Beach Residence are some of Dubai’s most famous neighbourhoods with a combination of modern architecture, and thrilling activities along the calm waters of the Arabian Gulf.
Top things to do in Dubai Marina
1. The Marina is lined with broad boulevards perfect for scenic walks where you can spot superyachts berthed at Marina Walk and Dubai International Marine Club, and watch skydivers take on the blue skies. The walk is host to a variety of restaurants and cafés that light up after sunset.
2. For a unique perspective, step aboard a luxury yacht and enjoy a sunset cruise along Marina Canal and Palm Lagoon while you admire the city skyline and pass landmarks like the Burj Al Arab, Ain Dubai and the Atlantis, with the skyscrapers of Dubai Marina providing a stunning backdrop. For a longer adventure, you can opt for cruises that offer dining and dancing under the stars.
3. The Beach at JBR is a lively and energetic spot with stunning views and activities. Families can enjoy inflatable waterparks, while adults can relax in cabanas, play beach volleyball, or hit the waves on a jet ski. Alongside the beach is JBR’s The Walk, home to over 70 shopping and dining options, all set in a modern, low-rise development that enhances its beachside location. For further exploration, Bluewaters Island, home to Caesars Palace and the chic Cove Beach Club, is just a quick 15-minute walk away.
4. Don't miss the thrill of XLine Dubai Marina, the world’s longest urban zipline. Starting from 170 metres up one of JBR’s Amwaj Towers, participants hurtle across the water at speeds of up to 80 km/h, landing on the other side of the marina at Marina Mall.
5. Sky Dive Dubai’s famous experience over Palm Jumeirah also takes place from here. It is arguably one of the best sky-diving experiences in the world, where you can get a birds-eye view of the man-made island and the Dubai skyline.
6. For those looking for beach club experiences, Barasti is a top destination in Dubai Marina. This beach club offers a sparkling pool and restaurant by day and transforms into an energetic party destination by night, with international DJs providing the soundtrack. Bla Bla offers a mix of lounges, restaurants, and poolside lounging.
Al Seef & Al Fahidi Historical District
Both located along Dubai Creek, give a glimpse into old Dubai, offering visitors a chance to experience the heritage and traditional roots of the city. Walking through the alleyways and pedestrian streets of Al Seef, visitors can envision the lives of fishermen, pearl divers, and tradesmen who once worked along Dubai Creek.
Al Seef is a hub of local artistry, craftsmanship, and traditional handiwork, alongside homegrown fashion labels. Here visitors can enjoy a scenic abra ride on Dubai Creek, providing a charming view of the sights.
Boutique hotels are nestled within the vicinity, and the events plaza hosts a full calendar of activities, including plays, live bands, dance acts, and kids' shows. The area is home to numerous restaurants offering cuisines from around the world. The Museum of Illusions is another major attraction in the area, where you may find yourself amazed with mind-bending optical illusions.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood offers a glimpse into life in Old Dubai during the mid-19th century. This heritage site has preserved much of its original infrastructure. With over 50 houses to explore, visitors can start at the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) for a culturally immersive tour.
The Coins Museum, with over 470 rare coins, showcases the region's monetary history. Other highlights include the Symposium House and Events House, which hosts cultural events and heritage activities, and the Calligraphy House (Dar Al Khatt), which specialises in Arabic calligraphy.
Final Thoughts
These areas represent only a fraction of what Dubai has to offer. Whether you're drawn to luxurious modernity or rich cultural heritage, Dubai promises an unforgettable experience, regardless of what kind of trip you have in mind.
