things-to-do-in-Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Dubai, UAE: A City of Wonders

Dubai, the vibrant and cosmopolitan city of the United Arab Emirates, is a must-visit destination for any traveler. Located on the southeastern coast of the Gulf, Dubai offers a unique blend of traditional Arabian culture and modern sophistication.

Top Attractions

Burj Khalifa: The Tallest Building in the World

  • Address: Downtown Dubai
  • Opening Hours: 10am - 12pm (Sat-Wed), 2pm - 12pm (Thu-Fri)
  • Ticket Price: AED 200 ($55 USD) for non-residents, AED 150 ($40 USD) for residents

Experience the breathtaking views of Dubai from the observation deck on the 124th floor of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

Dubai Miracle Garden

  • Address: Al Barsha South
  • Opening Hours: Daily (Sat-Thu) 9am - 10pm; Friday 2pm - 11pm
  • Ticket Price: AED 50 ($14 USD) for adults, AED 40 ($11 USD) for children

Stroll through the beautifully designed gardens featuring over 45 million flowers arranged in stunning patterns and designs.

Dubai Mall

  • Address: Downtown Dubai
  • Opening Hours: Daily (Sat-Thu) 10am - 12pm; Friday 2pm - 12pm
  • Ticket Price: Free admission, but be prepared for some high-end shopping!

One of the world’s largest and most luxurious malls offers a wide range of shopping options, dining experiences, and entertainment activities.

Dubai Fountain Show

  • Address: Downtown Dubai
  • Timing: Daily (Sat-Thu) 6pm - 11pm; Friday 2pm - 11pm
  • Ticket Price: Free admission

Enjoy the spectacular display of water, music, and light with over 6,600 lights and 25 color projectors.

Best Experiences

Desert Safari

Visit the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve for a thrilling experience that includes dune bashing, camel riding, and camping under the stars. Operators like Arabian Adventures and Morning Glory offer guided tours from AED 250 (~$68 USD) per person.

Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Walk

Stroll along the picturesque waterfront promenade in Dubai Marina and enjoy a leisurely walk on Jumeirah Beach, one of the city’s most popular beaches. Don’t forget to take a romantic dinner cruise on a luxury yacht!

Food Heaven

Dubai is known for its delicious Middle Eastern cuisine, as well as international options from around the world. Be sure to try:

  • Traditional Emirati dishes like machboos and luqaimat
  • Authentic Indian food at restaurants like The Dhaba
  • Japanese sushi at restaurants like Sumo

Tips for Tourists

Getting Around

Dubai has a well-developed public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and taxis. The RTA (Roads & Transport Authority) operates an efficient taxi service with various denominations.

Dress Code

Respect Dubai’s conservative culture by dressing modestly when visiting mosques, government offices, or traditional areas. Remove your shoes before entering mosques or homes.

Safety Precautions

Stay hydrated and protected from the scorching sun by wearing sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses. Also, be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas and avoid carrying large amounts of cash.

Accommodation

Dubai offers an impressive range of hotels to suit all budgets. From luxurious 5-star resorts like Atlantis The Palm and Burj Al Arab, to budget-friendly options like the Ibis Dubai and Rove Dubai, you’ll find something that suits your needs.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • Address: Ibn Battuta Gate
  • Price Range: ~$60 - $150 USD per night

A stylish 3-star hotel with modern rooms and an outdoor pool.

Luxury Resorts

  • Address: Palm Jumeirah
  • Price Range: ~$300 - $600 USD per night

Experience opulence at the 5-star Atlantis The Palm, featuring lavish suites and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.

Dubai is a city that seamlessly blends tradition with modernity, making it an exciting destination for tourists from around the world. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and endless options for shopping, dining, and entertainment, Dubai has something to offer everyone.