Dubai, a cosmopolitan metropolis, is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. Known for its architectural marvels, luxurious shopping malls, and pristine beaches, Dubai has become a global tourism and business hub. With a rich cultural heritage, the city is a blend of tradition and modernity, offering world-class amenities, stunning skyscrapers like the iconic Burj Khalifa, and a multitude of leisure activities for visitors and residents alike.
Official Tourism Website: https://www.visitdubai.com/en/
Google map of the city of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates
The Best Things to Do in Dubai
#1 Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building, standing at 828 meters. Completed in 2010, this architectural marvel features 163 floors, including residential spaces, a hotel, and corporate suites. The At the Top observation deck offers panoramic views of Dubai, while the surrounding area features the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountains, and the expansive Burj Khalifa Park.
Official website: https://www.burjkhalifa.ae
Google map 4.7/5
#2 Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is a luxury hotel situated on an artificial island off the coast of Dubai. Known for its iconic sail-shaped design, the hotel stands at 321 meters and features 202 opulent suites. With amenities such as a helipad, private beach, and underwater restaurant, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah has gained a reputation as one of the world’s most luxurious hotels.
Official website: https://www.jumeirah.com
Google map 4.7/5
#3 The Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping center. Spanning over 13 million square feet, the mall houses more than 1,300 retail outlets, an aquarium, an ice rink, and numerous dining options. The mall also provides access to attractions such as the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountains. With over 80 million visitors annually, the Dubai Mall is a premier shopping and entertainment destination.
Official website: https://thedubaimall.com/
Google map 4.7/5
#4 Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah is an artificial archipelago located off the coast of Dubai. Developed by Nakheel, the palm-shaped island features luxury residences, hotels, and a monorail system. The island’s fronds are home to opulent villas, while the trunk offers upscale apartments and retail spaces. Palm Jumeirah is a prime example of the city’s ambitious engineering and architectural projects.
Official website: https://www.theviewpalm.ae/en (The View)
Google map 4.7/5
Google map The View Palm Jumeirah 4.7/5
#5 The Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain is a choreographed fountain that shoots water jets as high as 140 metres into the air to music and lights. The fountain is located in the centre of the Burj Khalifa Lake and comes to life every 30 minutes from 6pm daily.
FREE to watch the show except for tickets to the ‘front-row’ water experiences which can be bought in advance on the website below.
Official website: https://thedubaimall.com/en/
Google map 4.8/5
#6 Madinat Jumeirah
Madinat Jumeirah is a luxurious resort complex located along Jumeirah Beach. Designed to resemble an ancient Arabian town, the complex comprises three hotels, over 40 restaurants, and the Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a traditional-style market. The resort also features waterways navigated by traditional wooden abras, providing guests with a unique and authentic Arabian experience.
Official website: https://www.jumeirah.com/en/
Google map 4.7/5
#7 Mall of the Emirates
Mall of the Emirates is a premier shopping destination situated in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Opened in 2005, the mall features over 630 retail outlets, a variety of dining options, and numerous entertainment venues. Notable attractions include Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort, and VOX Cinemas, a state-of-the-art movie theater. The Mall of the Emirates is renowned for its luxury shopping and diverse range of amenities.
Official website: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/en
Google map Mall of the Emirates 4.7/5
#8 Al Fahidi (district)
Al Fahidi, also known as Al Bastakiya, is a historic district of the city. Established in the late 19th century, the area features traditional wind tower houses, narrow lanes, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, the Dubai Museum, and the Al Fahidi Fort while learning about the city’s rich history and traditional architecture.
Google map (Al Fahidi district)
Google map 4.5/5 (Al Fahidi Historical)
Google map 4.3/5 (Dubai Museum)
#9 The Walk and Beach at JBR
The Walk and Beach at JBR is a vibrant, beachfront promenade located in the Jumeirah Beach Residence area of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The 1.7-kilometer-long pedestrian strip features numerous shops, cafes, and restaurants, as well as outdoor art installations and entertainment venues. The adjacent JBR Beach offers pristine sand, water sports facilities, and picturesque views of the Arabian Gulf and the Ain Dubai observation wheel.
Official website: https://www.thebeach.ae/en
Google map 4.6/5
#10 Aquaventure Waterpark
Aquaventure Waterpark is a thrilling, family-friendly attraction located within the Atlantis, The Palm resort in Dubai. The waterpark spans 42 acres and offers a variety of waterslides, river rides, and pools, including the iconic Leap of Faith slide and the record-breaking Aquaconda. Aquaventure Waterpark also features a private beach, interactive marine animal experiences, and a dedicated children’s play area.
Official website: https://www.atlantis.com/
Google map 4.5/5
#11 The Desert
The Desert surrounding Dubai, United Arab Emirates, offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s natural beauty and experience traditional Bedouin culture. Visitors can participate in a variety of desert-based activities, such as dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. Desert safaris typically include a visit to a Bedouin-style camp, where guests can enjoy local cuisine, traditional music, and stargazing.
Official website: https://www.ddcr.org
Google map 4.6/5
#12 Dubai Creek
Dubai Creek is a saltwater inlet that divides the city of Dubai, United Arab Emirates, into the Deira and Bur Dubai districts. The creek has played a significant role in the city’s historic trading activities, and the surrounding area features traditional architecture, bustling souks, and historical sites. Visitors can explore the creek by taking an abra, a traditional wooden water taxi, or a guided dhow cruise.
Google map Dubai Creek 4.5/5
Google map Dubai Creek Harbour 4.7/5
#13 Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque is a prominent religious and cultural landmark located in Dubai. Built in 1979, the mosque features traditional Fatimid-style architecture, including intricate geometric designs and a large central dome. Jumeirah Mosque is one of the few mosques in Dubai open to non-Muslim visitors. Guided tours, hosted by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, offer insights into Islamic culture and practices.
Official website: https://www.jumeirahmosque.ae
Google map 4.6/5
#14 Dubai Miracle Garden
Dubai Miracle Garden is a vast, colorful flower garden located in the city. Spanning over 72,000 square meters, the garden features over 45 million flowers arranged in various shapes and structures, including an Emirates A380 plane replica. Dubai Miracle Garden is open from November to May and attracts visitors from around the world for its unique and vibrant floral displays.
Official website: https://www.dubaimiraclegarden.com
Google map 4.6/5
#15 The Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is an architectural landmark. Completed in 2018, the structure stands at 150 meters tall and features a large, golden frame designed to resemble a photo frame. The Dubai Frame offers panoramic views of the city and houses a museum showcasing Dubai’s past, present, and future. Visitors can access the top observation deck via a glass elevator.
Official website: https://www.dubaiframe.ae/en
Google map Dubai Frame 4.6/5
Google map Zabeel Park 4.6/5
#16 Global Village
Global Village is a multicultural entertainment and shopping destination located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Open from November to April, the park features pavilions representing over 75 countries, showcasing their unique culture, food, and merchandise. Global Village also offers various live shows, thrill rides, and carnival games, making it a popular destination for families and tourists.
Official website: https://www.globalvillage.ae
Google map 4.6/5
#17 Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is a modern waterfront district featuring residential towers, luxury hotels, and an extensive promenade. The area is known for its marina with moored yachts, dining options, and retail outlets. Visitors can enjoy boat cruises, waterfront cafes, and views of the surrounding skyscrapers. The nearby Marina Mall offers shopping and entertainment, while pedestrian walkways connect to beaches and public transport, making it a hub for leisure and tourism activities.
Google map Dubai Marina
Google map Dubai Marina Walk 7km 4.7/5
#18 Bluewaters Island
Bluewaters Island is an artificial island located off the coast of Dubai, connected to the mainland by a pedestrian bridge. It is home to Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, along with a range of hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets. The island features landscaped promenades and beachfront areas, offering views of the city skyline. It combines leisure, entertainment, and residential facilities in a modern waterfront setting.
Official website: https://www.aindubai.com/en (Observation wheel)
Google map 4.6/5
Google map Ain Dubai Observation wheel 4.7/5