Ultimate travel guide to Dubai

Dubai is a city and emirate in the United Arab Emirates known for luxury shopping, ultramodern architecture and a lively nightlife scene. Dubai is such a popular destination, that many people forget that it is just a city in the United Arab Emirates country. It is one of the seventh emirates, alongside  Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Quwain, and Fujairah, while the seventh emirate, Ras Al Khaimah, joined the federation in 1972. The capital city is Abu Dhabi, the largest and wealthiest of the seven emirates.

Dubai is well known for its tallest building - Burj Khalifa, massive malls and high-end lifestyle. Dubai might not be for everyone, but definitely worth at least once in a lifetime experience. 

WHAT TO DO AND SEE?

1. Burj Khalifa

Visit the top of the Burj Khalifa to admire the views of Dubai. With a total height of 829.8 m, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest structure and building in the world since its topping out in 2009, supplanting Taipei 101, the previous holder of that status. Make sure to reserve and book your tickets to the observation deck in advance.

2. Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall is the most popular tourist destination in Dubai. This mall has something for everyone, from kids to adults. The mall offers a remarkable shopping experience with over 1,200 shops and luxury brands such as Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana and Louis Vuitton. You can also find Dubai Aquarium and Discovery Centre inside the mall. If you are visiting Dubai with kids then there's a special section on level 3 called Kidzania where they can learn new things while playing games. 

3. The Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain is a world-famous fountain system located on the artificial Burj Khalifa Lake, at the center of Downtown Dubai. Illuminated by 6,600 lights and 50 coloured projectors, it shoots water up to 500 ft (152.4 m) into the air accompanied by classical to contemporary Arabic and World music. The fountain is animated with performances set to light and music. Definitely beautiful to watch this short show during the day as well as at night.

4. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is home to thousands of aquatic animals. Over 400 Sharks and Rays live in our 10 million litre tank. The aquarium features over 140 species and contains one of the largest fish tanks in a public aquarium worldwide, located in Dubai Mall.

5. Aquaventure Waterpark

The water park is located beside the Atlantis, the largest water park in all of South Beach. There, record-breaking rides and attractions await your arrival. The vast water park features zip lines, slides through shark-filled lagoons and a splash area for kids. A great way to spend time with loved ones!

6. Dubai Miracle Garden

The Dubai Miracle Garden is a flower garden located in the district of Dubailand, Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The garden was launched on Valentine's Day in 2013. It occupies over 72,000 square metres, making it the world's largest natural flower garden, featuring over 50 million flowers and 250 million plants. It is one of the region's most picturesque, sweet-scented destinations offering full family entertainment including themed picnic areas, children's play area with rides, café and plenty of fun things to do!

7. La Mer beach

La Mer Dubai beach, located right in the heart of Jumeirah 1 is a perfect place to unwind. The beach is lined with palm trees, arts and murals and there are lots of dining and leisure activities available for you that will simply take your breath away.

8. JBR beach

If you love the water and sandy beaches, you’ll love JBR. Its stunning waterfront scenery has been thoughtfully developed with the finest amenities, including restaurants and cafes along the beachfront.

9. Bluewaters island

It's a newly developed island by Meeras Group very close to JBR. Bluewaters is a vibrant lifestyle destination featuring distinctive residential, retail, hospitality, and entertainment options. All who arrive are spoilt for choice, it is also home to Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel.

10. The Pointe, the Palm & The Palm Fountain show

The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, is Dubai's new iconic waterfront destination. Across the bay from Atlantis, The Palm, The Pointe's 1.5 km promenade presents stunning waterside opportunities with dining, and entertainment options to stroll around as well as to watch The Palm Fountain show which comes alive daily with shows happening every 30 min between sunset to midnight

Source: bayut.com

11. Mall of Emirates and Ski Dubai

The Mall of the Emirates offers a wide selection of shopping and dining options and unique indoor skiing & cinema experiences. If Dubai Mall is too overwhelming for you, try visiting Mall of Emirates. Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort with 22,500 square meters of the indoor ski area. The park maintains a temperature of -1 degrees to 2 degrees Celsius throughout the year. It is a part of the Mall of the Emirates.

12. Jumeirah Mosque

The Jumeirah Mosque is a must-see since it is a landmark of Dubai. It is not the largest mosque in the UAE, yet it is one of the few open to non-Muslims. Construction began in 1976; the mosque is built in the traditional Fatimid style which originated from Syria and Egypt. Opened in 1979, the Jumeirah Mosque visit has been a key activity under the 'Open Doors. Open Minds.' 

13. Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Bazaar in traditional Middle Eastern style with stalls & restaurants under a wooden covered arcade. The perfect encapsulation of old and new, Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a clever shopping and dining destination next to the iconic Burj Al Arab.

14. Old Dubai - Dubai creek, Al Seef, Al Fahidi Historical

 For those who wish to see what life was like before the city began its rapid growth, Dubai’s Old Quarter is the ideal place to visit and learn more about the history and tradition of this Emirate. The Dubai Creek was where life in the city started – from the fishermen to the merchants, this saltwater canal is a vital piece of Dubai’s history. The creek expands into the Persian Gulf and was one of the main channels for trade for the small city that has now grown into a major metropolis. Visitors and residents can cross Dubai Creek for a mere one dirham (£0.22) in a shared abra, a traditional boat that operates as a water taxi. This allows people to go from Al Bastakiya to the souks.

15. Global village

Global village is a multi-cultural theme park. There are 27 global pavilions representing 78 nations around the world, heaps of cultural shows, carnival rides, street food stands, the region’s first oddity museum, Ripley’s Believe It Or Not, and loads more.

16. Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is an affluent residential neighbourhood known for The Beach at JBR, a leisure complex with al fresco dining and sandy stretches to relax on. Smart cafes and pop-up craft markets line the waterside promenade Dubai Marina Walk, while Dubai Marina Mall is packed with chain and luxury fashion brands. Upscale yachts cruise through the large man-made marina, where activities range from jet skiing to skydiving.

17. Souks - Gold souk, Spice souk

For those who are looking to purchase gold for great prices or to simply better understand the jewellery market in Dubai, the gold souk is where visitors can see the largest gold chain in the world as per the Guinness World Records and shop for well-priced pieces, all the while getting a glimpse of a traditional Arabic market. 

The spice souk is a unique experience. From the mixture of scents accentuating the flavours of the region to the vivid colours of the different spices brought to Dubai from neighbouring countries through the creek, the spice souk gives visitors the chance to shop for traditional and rare spices in a classic setting and acquire some of the highest quality spices in the region.

18. Museum of future

The Museum of the Future is an exhibition space for innovative and futuristic ideologies, services, and products. Located in the Financial District of Dubai, UAE, the Museum of the Future has three main elements: green hill, building, and void. Go on a journey through possible futures and bring hope.

19. Alserkal Avenue

Alserkal Avenue is an industrial compound hosting warehouses in the industrial zone of Al Quoz, in Dubai. The area is an arts and culture district for Dubai with a lineup of galleries, facilities and platforms, such as Alserkal Avenue that houses residencies for local and global artists. A perfect place to explore independent artists, and exhibitions and stroll around the nearby coffee shops.

20. Beaches

Whether you want to curl up with a book in a quiet cove, fling a frisbee with friends, grab some great beach-side food, drape yourself over a luxe sun lounger, sip ice-cold drinks in a chilled atmosphere or go out for a pool or beach party during the day, you can do so in Dubai. Dubai has many stretches of sand across the city including La Mer Beach, JBC beach, Jumeirah Open Beach, 4x4 beach, Kite beach and more.

21. Safari 

Embark on a morning or evening desert safari across the Al Lahbab sand dunes from Dubai. Choose from a variety of activities, from sandboarding, camel riding to quad biking. 

22. Other entertainment attractions

Even though Dubai doesn't have a rich history and tourist attractions to visit and admire. Nevertheless, you can admire Dubai for its futuristic buildings and endless entertainment options. Whether you are visiting with your partner, family, group of friends or family, there is always something for any occasion and age category. 

WHERE TO EAT & DRINK?

Dubai is such an international place, so you'll find cuisine from every country you can think of. Whatever your taste buds feel like eating today, I am sure that you can find a dining spot for it. What people love to do are bottomless brunches. What else to do on a hot day then spend half a day dining, and drinking with your friends, right?

1. Souk Al Bahar & Time Out Market

Souk Al Bahar is a modern Arabian souk mall with souvenirs and lifestyle stores, plus waterfront dining. Inside the souk you'll find Time Out Market, featuring 18 amazing eateries, three top-notch bars, a stage and a terrace overlooking Burj Khalifa & The Dubai Fountains.

2. Arabian Tea House

This cosy spot offers Emirati cuisine and a wide choice of teas, sandwiches or desserts to go with your beverage of choice. Located in the Al Fahidi area, the beautiful cafe with its courtyard will offer you a getaway from the buzz of the city.

3. Logma

Experience the magic of authentic Khaleeji cuisine at the finest Emirate restaurant located in Dubai Mall.

4. CE LA VI Dubai

Perched on the 57th floor of Marina Bay Sands, CÉ LA VI takes rooftop dining to the highest level. Perfect place to dine as well as to admire the city skylight. 

5. Treehouse

Fancy cocktails & Mediterranean eats in a swanky terrace lounge featuring city views & DJ tunes.

6. % Arabica Coffee

% Arabica is simple and stylish with a Japanese minimalistic design, strong brand identity and high quality coffee beans that are roasted fresh. They have a few branches around the city as well as around the world.

7. Alchemy Coffee

Minimalist coffee shop with a terrace brewing coffee with thoughtfully sourced, single-origin beans.

8. Brunch & Cake Wasl 51

Brunch & Cake opened 4 restaurants across the UAE, boasting the infamous reputation it held in Barcelona. The brand is known for hosting iconic brunches.

9. Drift Beach Dubai

Private beach club with a bar and a restaurants, alongside with a stunning infinity pool, overlooking one Kilometre of prime beachfront and lush landscaped surroundings offering panoramic views of the city.

10. Bla Bla Dubai

This unique concept in all-day entertainment, opened its doors in January 2021. Embodying Dubai's 'go big or go home' ethos. Japanese, Italian & American offerings crafted in an upmarket restaurant at a trendy beach club.

WHERE TO STAY?

Since Dubai is such a popular destination for tourists, you'll find plenty of accommodation options around the city. From low cost to high end. Depending on what facilities you are looking for or what locations. 

Here are few hotel suggestions for you:

1. Sheraton Mall of the Emirates Hotel, Dubai

Featuring 481 stylish rooms and suites with stunning views of the Dubai city skyline. The hotel is also directly connected to Mall of Emirates making it easy for you to enjoy range of dining and shopping scene right by your foot. It is also connected to metro station, so you can easily get around the city.

2. Rove City Centre

Rove City Centre is an affordable hotel in Deira Dubai, close to Dubai Airport and near other key landmarks. Deira is just opposite the Creek and Old Dubai, making it easy for you to explore the less travelled part of Dubai. Deira is also much more budget friendly area to stay if you are looking for cost saving accommodations. The hotel is near a mall as well as a tube station. Rove does has other locations around the city as well, so make sure to check their presence.

3. Palace Downtown

Set at the heart of Dubai Downtown, Palace Downtown is located a 5-minute walk from the Dubai Mall and the Souk Al Bahar shopping and entertainment centre. The Palace Downtown is a luxurious 5-star hotel that seamlessly combines traditional Arabic design with state of the art facilities to create a fantastic stay for guests.

4. FIVE Palm Jumeirah Hotel

Located at the entrance of the iconic island, Palm Jumeirah. The hotel has 470 guest rooms and suites, spread across 16 floors, decorated in a simple yet elegant style with views of the Arabian Gulf. 

5. Airbnbs

Always an option wherever you go! If you don't mind not having room services or dining options in one roof, then you can find stunning apartments around the city through Airbnbs too. 

HOW TO GET AROUND?

Dubai is not made for walking. There are few areas around residential or dining places where it is made for chilling and walking. However, the city itself doesn't have the infrastructure for people to walk around. Therefore the best way to get around is either using Dubai's metro or taxis.