Dubai is known for its modern skyline, luxury shopping, beautiful beaches and exciting experiences. Whether you are visiting for a few days or planning a longer holiday, there are plenty of places to explore.
Here are some of the best places to visit in Dubai, along with useful information to help you plan your day.
Location: Downtown Dubai
Approximate time needed: 2–3 hours
Best for: First-time visitors, couples, families and photographers
Burj Khalifa is one of Dubai's most famous landmarks and the world's tallest building, standing at 828 metres.
You can visit the observation decks for panoramic views of Dubai and the surrounding area. It is also a great place for photos, especially around sunset.
What to do:
Location: Downtown Dubai
Approximate time needed: 3–5 hours
Best for: Families, shoppers and entertainment lovers
Dubai Mall is much more than a shopping destination. It offers shopping, dining and entertainment options, including an ice rink, aquarium and other attractions.
Because it is close to Burj Khalifa, you can easily visit both attractions on the same day.
What to do:
Location: Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Approximate time needed: 3–4 hours
Best for: Couples, families, beach lovers and photographers
Palm Jumeirah is Dubai's famous palm-shaped artificial island. The area is home to hotels, restaurants, beaches and attractions.
You can spend a relaxed day exploring the island or combine it with other attractions in the area.
What to do:
Location: Dubai Marina
Approximate time needed: 2–3 hours
Best for: Couples, families, evening walks and photography
Dubai Marina is one of the city's popular waterfront areas. The skyline, restaurants and walking areas make it especially enjoyable in the evening.
What to do:
Location: Zabeel Park
Approximate time needed: 1–2 hours
Best for: Families, photographers and first-time visitors
Dubai Frame offers a different view of the city. Located in Zabeel Park, it connects the idea of old and modern Dubai and provides panoramic city views from around 150 metres high.
What to do:
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road
Approximate time needed: 2–3 hours
Best for: Families, technology lovers and curious travellers
The Museum of the Future is one of Dubai's most recognisable modern buildings. It focuses on ideas, technology and possible future lifestyles.
It is a good choice if you want something different from traditional sightseeing.
What to do:
Location: Dubai desert, outside the main city area
Approximate time needed: 5–7 hours
Best for: Families, couples, groups and adventure lovers
A Dubai desert safari gives you a chance to experience a different side of the city away from its skyscrapers.
Depending on the package, activities can include dune driving, sandboarding, camel rides, sunset photography and a traditional-style evening camp.
What to do:
You can combine nearby attractions on the same day. For example, Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall are located together, while Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina can be planned around the same part of the city.
Dubai has attractions for different types of travellers, from shopping and architecture to beaches and desert adventures.
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