Dubai

What are the most recommended things to do in Dubai?

  • Visit Burj Khalifa and enjoy panoramic views from the observation deck.
  • Explore Dubai Mall, including the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
  • See the Dubai Fountain show at the base of Burj Khalifa.
  • Relax or swim at Jumeirah Beach and Kite Beach.
  • Tour the historic Al Fahidi Neighborhood (Al Bastakiya) and Dubai Museum.
  • Experience a desert safari with dune bashing, camel rides, and cultural performances.
  • Visit Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis, The Palm resort.
  • Take a dhow cruise along Dubai Creek or Marina for city views at night.
  • Shop at traditional souks, such as the Gold Souk and Spice Souk.
  • Enjoy global cuisines at Dubai’s many restaurants and cafes.

Introducing Dubai

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.

Climate and best time to travel

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!

Recommended number of days and locations for visiting

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


Most Popular FAQs for Dubai

What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?

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.

Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?

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.

What are the opening hours and best times to visit?

  • Attractions like malls and museums are generally open 10:00–22:00, some 24-hour areas exist.
  • Best time to visit is from November to March when temperatures are cooler.

What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?

  • Burj Khalifa: Prices start from ~AED 149; tickets available online or at the ticket counter.
  • Dubai Aquarium: AED 120–300; tickets online or on-site.
  • Desert safari tours vary by operator; usually booked online or through hotels.
  • Museums and heritage sites: Usually AED 3–50; tickets purchased on-site.

Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?

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).

How much time is needed to fully explore it?

A minimum of 3–5 days is recommended to see major landmarks, enjoy leisure activities, and explore both modern and historic areas.

What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?

  • Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain)
  • Jumeirah Beach and The Palm
  • Dubai Marina and Marina Walk
  • Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood and Dubai Museum
  • Desert areas for safaris and cultural experiences
  • Traditional souks (Gold Souk, Spice Souk, Textile Souk)

Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?

Guided tours are widely available in English, Arabic, German, French, and other languages, especially for city tours, desert safaris, and museum visits.

What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?

  • Burj Khalifa observation decks (124th and 148th floors)
  • Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis aerial views
  • Dubai Marina promenade at sunset
  • Desert dunes for sunrise or sunset photography
  • Al Fahidi neighborhood for traditional architecture shots

What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?

  • Day 1: Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain)
  • Day 2: Desert safari and dune experience
  • Day 3: Jumeirah Beach, The Palm, Atlantis
  • Day 4: Dubai Marina, dhow cruise
  • Day 5: Historic Al Fahidi and souks

Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?

  • Dubai Fountain light show in the evenings
  • Night desert safari experiences
  • Night cruises along Dubai Creek or Marina
  • Special events and light shows at Burj Khalifa during festivals

Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?

Downtown Dubai and tourist hotspots are busy during evenings and weekends. Visiting on weekdays and early mornings reduces crowd exposure.

What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?

Extensive facilities are available: malls, restaurants, cafes, restrooms, ATMs, and water stations. Tourist areas are highly developed for convenience.

Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?

Most major attractions are wheelchair accessible, family-friendly, and suitable for children. Elevators, ramps, and accessible restrooms are widely available.

Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?

Cards (Visa, MasterCard) and mobile payments are widely accepted; cash is optional for small vendors and local markets.

What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?

International and local cuisine options abound in Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, Souk Madinat, and The Palm, including fine dining, fast food, and cafes.

Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?

Yes, most restaurants offer vegetarian, vegan, and halal options. Middle Eastern, Indian, and Asian restaurants cater to various dietary preferences.

What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?

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.

What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?

  • Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
  • Madinat Jumeirah and Souks
  • Desert safari tours
  • Dubai Frame and Global Village (seasonal)
  • Dubai Miracle Garden and Butterfly Garden (Nov–Apr)

Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?

Souvenir options include gold jewelry, spices, perfumes, Arabic coffee sets, textiles, camel-themed items, and local handicrafts available in souks and malls.

What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?

  • Dubai Metro for city travel
  • Taxis and ride-hailing apps (Careem, Uber)
  • Rental cars for desert or out-of-city trips
  • Water taxis and ferries along Dubai Creek and Marina