With its world-famous, record-breaking skyscrapers and hundreds of sights and sounds to experience, Dubai is one of the trendiest destinations in the world. It comes as no surprise, then, that over 16 million international visitors visit this city each year. If you happen to be one of the many people interested in taking a trip to Dubai in the near future, you’re in the right place as we’ll dive in to the must-see attractions in Dubai.
Today, we explore 6-must see destinations when visiting Dubai. Whatever you’re looking for, you’re sure to find something here as we round-up the best-of-the-best that no tourist or resident should miss out on. Read on to find out more.
Burj Al Arab
Kicking off our sightseeing tour of Dubai is none other than the world famous Burj Al Arab hotel. This iconic Dubai hotel boasts the world’s only 7-star rating and has redefined the meaning of exceptional hospitality, both in Dubai and around the world. Managed by the Jumeirah Hotel and famous for its striking sail-shape design, a suite at this luxury hotel doesn’t come cheap, with even the most modest of 1 bedroom residences costing up to $1000 per night. But even if this hotel isn’t for everyone’s budget, there’s good news: you can enter the most iconic hotel in the world for a few hours by reserving a lunch, a snack or dinner at the Burj al-Arab restaurant. So don’t forget to buy AED if you’re looking to treat yourself to some blue lobster bouillabaisse and the caramelized quail with mashed potatoes, amongst many other mouthwatering dishes.
Location: Jumeirah Beach
Fun Fact: In addition to being the tallest all-suite hotel in the world, in 2008 Burj Al Arab also broke the Guinness World Record for the most expensive cocktail, valued at $10, 760 AUD.
Burj Khalifa
Another absolute must-see attraction for anyone visiting Dubai is the Burj Khalifa. Also known as the tallest skyscraper in the world at 828 meters, this iconic location has been open to the public since 2010 and has quickly become the symbol of the city. This towering 163-story building not only holds the record of the world’s tallest, but also boasts the world’s highest occupied floor, highest outdoor observation deck, and tallest service elevator in the entire world.
Visitors looking to enjoy an extraordinary panorama over the whole city are encouraged to visit the Burj Khalifa in the evening, to enjoy the view over the illuminated city from the renowned observation deck. While you’re there, don’t forget to enjoy a meal at any one of the many top-notch restaurants on offer. Find out more about wining and dining at The Burj Khalifa here.
Location: Downtown Dubai
Fun Fact: The Burj Khalifa was named in honor of the ruler of Abu Dhabi and the president of UAE, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
The Dubai Mall
If shopping is your favorite pastime, you certainly mustn’t miss out on visiting The Dubai Mall. Located in the city center (and conveniently next to The Burj Khalifa), The Dubai Mall is not only vast in size, but also the most visited shopping center in the world. This shopping mecca is also home to a variety of stunning indoor waterfalls, an aquarium, an ice rink, a go-kart track, a flight simulator, an aquarium, cinemas, arcade games and so much more. With over 1200 shops and hundreds of restaurants, one visit will not be enough and you are guaranteed to find something that fits your taste and your budget.
Explore 13 fun things to do at The Dubai Mall here.
Location: Financial Center Street, next to The Burj Khalifa
Spice Souk
If you are an avid foodie or chef looking to truly immerse yourself in the flavors of Dubai, a visit to the Spice Souk is a must. Dubai’s Spice Souk is a colorful, aromatic and sensory experience that you can enjoy if you’re looking for a day away from the hustle and bustle of luxurious skyscrapers. Located in Deira, this traditional marketplace/bazaar is peppered with narrow lanes and over 150 stalls selling hundreds of spices, incense, oils, herbs, textiles, teas, rugs and artifacts galore.
Some of the most popular buys for foodies at the market include saffron, rose water, shisha pipes, exotic vanilla pods, cinnamon sticks, jade-green sliced pistachios and dried lemons. Besides this, if you’re a tea lover, you should definitely get your hands on some hibiscus, rosebud, and lavender tea at the Spice Souk. The souk really has it all – You name it, they have it.
Find out more about the various souks in Dubai that will fulfil all your shopping needs here.
Location: Al Ras, on Baniyas Street
The Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain is one of the city’s main tourist attractions, and not surprisingly, also happens to be the largest water fountain in the world. Submerged within the 30-acre Burj Lake (at the foot of The Dubai Mall), powerful water jets are laid out strategically over an area the length of two football pitches to create a fountain unlike any other. The Dubai Fountain offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in a captivating water, music and light experience.
While you’re on your visit, don’t forget to catch the famous fountain show that takes place several times a day. Delightful by day and enchanting in the evening, The Dubai Fountain show is a must-see for residents and tourists alike. If you want to take it one step further and admire the sound and light show up close, be sure to take an abra (traditional boat) on the artificial lake. Do note that you will need to book tickets in advance due to the popularity of the site,
Fun Fact: When operational, the fountain has over 100,000 liters of water in the air at any given moment!
Location: At the foot of The Burj Khalifa
Jumeirah Mosque
Last, but certainly by no means the least, is the Jumeirah Mosque. The only mosque in the city that is open to non-Muslims, this landmark location is open to the public six days a week and welcomes visitors to learn about Emirati culture and Islam. You can visit the inside of the mosque to learn more about the rites and the 5 pillars of Islam, and photos are allowed so that you can capture memories to last a lifetime.
Guided tours are organized daily (except Fridays), but be sure to get there half an hour before to make sure you get a seat. Do note that strict dress codes applies, and arms and legs must be covered (men, women and children), and women should cover their hair with a headscarf.
Find out more about the do’s and don’ts of visiting a mosque in Dubai here.
Location: Jumeirah Beach Road
