
Dubai (Arabic: دبي, English: Dubai) is the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates. It is located on the southeast coast of the Persian Gulf. Dubai is also the capital of the Emirate of Dubai, one of the seven emirates that make up the UAE.
Dubai boasts the world's first seven-star hotel (the Burj Al Arab), the world's tallest skyscraper (the Burj Khalifa), the world's largest shopping mall (Dubai Trade Center), the world's largest indoor ski slope (Emirates Trade Center), important trading ports (Jebel Ali Port and Rashid Port), and the renowned Dubai International Financial Center (DIFC). With the massive development of numerous industries, Dubai's vibrant real estate, sports events, and conferences, along with its near-record-breaking features, has attracted global attention, making it almost synonymous with luxury.
Dubai has an Indian Ocean climate. Summer (May-October) is scorching hot, with temperatures reaching over 45°C and minor sandstorms in some desert areas. Travelers should avoid the peak summer months.
November to April is Dubai's peak tourist season, with average temperatures ranging from 7-20°C. The weather and sunshine at the start of the new year are particularly pleasant, making it a prime time for foreign tourists to fully appreciate the local charm. This also coincides with the Dubai Shopping Festival, when the deep discounts at major shopping malls will keep you shopping non-stop!
Burj Khalifa
The world's tallest building, a landmark in Dubai, stands 828 meters tall and boasts 162 floors. Take the world's fastest sightseeing elevator from the ground floor to the tower in just 60 seconds. From the 124th-floor observation deck, you'll enjoy a spectacular 360-degree bird's-eye view of Dubai, including the Palm Island and the Burj Al Arab. The best time to visit is at sunset, when you can see the distinct beauty of Dubai by day and by night.
Jumeirah Public Beach (near Burj Al Arab)
Jumeirah Beach is the largest free beach in Dubai, offering soft, white sand, the azure waters of the Persian Gulf in front, and a row of luxury hotels in the background. It's also the only place in Dubai where swimwear is permitted. There's a public bathing area and beach chairs for rent.
Behind it is the Burj Al Arab, where you can take various photos, such as holding up the Burj Al Arab with your hands, or lifting it with your index finger and thumb.
Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah is an artificial island in the Palm Islands archipelago, shaped like a palm tree and dotted with resort hotels and luxury homes. The most famous building on the island is the Atlantis Resort at its end. Besides accommodations, it also boasts a wealth of entertainment options, including Aquaventure Waterpark, The Lost Chambers Aquarium, and Dolphin Bay, all of which are popular with tourists.
When you reach the crescent-shaped embankment, you can see the endless sea, and when you look back you can see the panoramic view of the Atlantis Hotel. This is also the best place to take photos with the hotel as the background.
The Lost Chambers of Atlantis Aquarium
Named The Lost Chambers, the aquarium evokes the mysterious and claustrophobic feeling of a lost civilization. Its dark and ethereal interior, accompanied by a mesmerizing soundtrack, offers a glimpse of over 65,000 marine creatures swimming in the tranquil waters, creating a sense of being transported to an ancient and mysterious underwater world. Guided tours offer insights into the legend of Atlantis and the marine life that inhabited it.
Recommended travel time: 5-7 days
Dubai is a major city in the United Arab Emirates, historically a fishing and pearl-diving village. Today, it is globally significant for its rapid economic growth, futuristic architecture, luxury tourism, and status as a regional business hub.
Dubai is located on the southeast coast of the Persian Gulf. Transportation options include the Dubai Metro, taxis, buses, water taxis, and walking in pedestrian-friendly areas like Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina.
For major attractions like Burj Khalifa, desert safaris, and Dubai Aquarium, booking a few days in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist season (Nov–Mar).
A minimum of 3–5 days is recommended to see major landmarks, enjoy leisure activities, and explore both modern and historic areas.
Guided tours are widely available in English, Arabic, German, French, and other languages, especially for city tours, desert safaris, and museum visits.
Downtown Dubai and tourist hotspots are busy during evenings and weekends. Visiting on weekdays and early mornings reduces crowd exposure.
Extensive facilities are available: malls, restaurants, cafes, restrooms, ATMs, and water stations. Tourist areas are highly developed for convenience.
Most major attractions are wheelchair accessible, family-friendly, and suitable for children. Elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms are widely available.
Cards (Visa, MasterCard) and mobile payments are widely accepted; cash is optional for small vendors and local markets.
International and local cuisine options abound in Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, Souk Madinat, and The Palm, including fine dining, fast food, and cafes.
Yes, most restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal options. Middle Eastern, Indian, and Asian restaurants cater to various dietary preferences.
Luxury hotels: Burj Al Arab, Atlantis The Palm, Armani Hotel Dubai. Mid-range options: Rove Downtown, Hilton Garden Inn. Budget hotels are also available near Bur Dubai and Deira.
Souvenir options include gold jewelry, spices, perfumes, Arabic coffee sets, textiles, camel-themed items, and local handicrafts available in souks and malls.