Discover the Luxurious Opulence of Dubai
Dubai is the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates and considered a tech, trading, and financial hub of the Middle East. This luxurious mega-city has humble beginnings and only recently developed into a futuristic metropolis within just a few decades. Now Dubai is renowned for its soaring skyscrapers, lavish shopping malls, man-made islands, and extravagant architectural designs. The bustling city is nestled between the shimmering shores of the Persian Gulf and the golden dunes that stretch into infinity. There’s an endless amount of unique experiences to enjoy in Dubai, but here are the top 10 best landmarks you need to visit! Yalla Habibi!
10. Dubai Marina
The Dubai Marina is an affluent neighborhood right on the Arabian Gulf coast. It is surrounded by luxurious skyscrapers and rests at the base of the man-made island, The Palm Jumeirah. The Marina Walk is lined with a diversity of restaurants and is a great place for a leisurely stroll. You can also indulge in other unique activities like a sunset cruise on a super yacht or skydiving.
9. The Burj Al Arab
Dominating the beach skyline like a sail on the Arabian Gulf, the Burj Al Arab is the epitome of luxury. This seven-star hotel is one of the most photographed landmarks in the world, and inspired the architecture of Barcelona‘s W Hotel. Even if you’re not staying here, you can book a reservation at one of its award-winning restaurants or sneak in for a decadent afternoon tea. Every inch of this hotel radiates opulence, from its gold-leaf interiors to the breathtaking views of the coastline. Tours are also available inside the property, to dive into the buildings history and architecture.
8. Dubai Frame
For a unique perspective on the city, try visiting the Dubai Frame. This towering architectural wonder is the world’s largest picture frame, standing at 150 meters high. On one side, you’ll see the traditional heritage of Old Dubai and on the other, the gleaming modern skyline that defines the future. Walk across the glass-bottomed bridge between the two towers for an exhilarating (and somewhat nerve-wracking) view of the city below. The Dubai Frame is a symbolic window to both the past and future of the city. Purchase tickets to the top here or at the ticket booth.
7. Museum of the Future
Take a Glimpse into tomorrow at the Museum of the Future. The museum transports you to the year 2071 in an immersive experience that explores cutting-edge advancements in science, technology, and artificial intelligence. While a bit pricey for the amount of content provided, the thought provoking journey into the realm of possibilities is still totally worth it. The building’s elliptical design is just another example of Dubai’s eccentricity & grandeur on full display. Its façade is inscribed with an Arabic poem stating, “We might not live for hundreds of years, but the products of our creativity can leave a legacy long after we are gone“. Tickets sell out quickly, so reserve them at least a month in advance online.
6. Bargain at Gold & Spice Souks in Old Dubai
Anyone in search of the sparse traces of the city’s culture is bound to wind up in Old Dubai. The historical districts of the Bastakiya Quarter and Al Fahidi, offer a glimpse into the authentic heritage of Dubai’s past. Sign up for an immersive walking tour for a better understanding of what Dubai used to be along its path to flourishing. The tour guide was excellent and took us to various neighborhoods, offered free tea & street food, and guided us across the infamous Dubai Creek on a boat. He also showed us how to bargain at the souks (traditional markets) for high quality fabrics, spices, and more. The gold souk is one of the best places on the planet to buy authentic jewelry where you can also find the world’s largest ring!
5. Dubai Mall
I wouldn’t usually consider shopping a necessary travel experience, but the scale of the Dubai Mall brings a whole new meaning to consumerism. With over 1,200 stores, an indoor aquarium, and even an ice rink, this shopping mecca redefines “shop ’til you drop.” If you can’t find it here, it probably doesn’t exist. But beyond the retail therapy, the mall houses the largest fountain in the world! The Dubai Fountain is one of the city’s most incredible spectacles, where choreographed water and light shows dazzle visitors every half hour from 6pm to 9pm.
4. Ski Dubai at the Mall of the Emirates
For more mind-blowing attractions you won’t believe exist, check out the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai! It is an entire ski resort inside of a shopping complex and a great place to escape the heat for awhile. Whether you’re an expert or novice, you can enjoy skiing/snowboarding complete with real snow. This indoor slope delivers the full winter experience including a ski lift, snow tubing, bobsledding, and more. You can even have an up-close encounter with a penguin! Don’t worry all the gear is provided for you. There’s something magical about a winter wonderland in the middle of a desert.
3. Aura SkyPool at the Palm
For another record shattering experience, head to the Aura SkyPool to relax at the world’s highest infinity pool! Located 200 meters up on the 50th floor of The Palm Tower, this stunning 360-degree oasis offers sweeping views of the Dubai skyline. As you peer over the edge you’ll witness the most magnificent views of the Palm Jumeirah itself. This tree-shaped island is one of the coolest man-made landmasses in the world. The deck offers cabanas, sunbeds, and a wide selection of delicacies from their restaurant (the sushi ain’t bad). To elevate your lounging experience at the best price, be sure to book it a few weeks in advance.
2. Dune Bashing on a Desert Safari
Heed the call of the dunes and venture into the vast, golden sands of the Arabian Desert on a wild safari! We signed up for a tour to leave the glittering city behind on an adrenaline-pumping dune bashing excursion in a 4×4. The tour also included an ATV ride, sandboarding, and a peaceful camel ride at sunset. The evening continued with epic performances as we devoured a delicious Bedouin BBQ and ended with stargazing upon a clear night sky. Considering the value provided, it was by far one of the best experiences to have in Dubai! For more epic desert adventures, check out our experience at the Wadi Rum desert in Jordan.
1. The Burj Khalifa
No trip to Dubai is complete without the quintessential experience of visiting the tallest building in the world. The Burj Khalifa soars to a staggering 828 meters into the sky, completely dominating the city’s futuristic skyline. It symbolizes the pinnacle of human achievement, and man’s will to become one with the heavens. Ticket options include the general admission to the 125th floor, premium access to level 148, or the world’s highest lounge at level 154. Keep in mind the prices surge during peak sunset hours, so we recommend visiting after 7pm. Dubai is much more impressive at night anyway. Aside from a view that stretches infinitely past the horizon, You can also watch the fabulous Dubai Fountain Show from a unique perspective. After taking in the marvelous views, check out the light show from the bottom to see the Burj lit up in a glorious melodic display.
Other Top Experiences in Dubai
It’s impossible to see everything Dubai has to offer in a single trip, so here’s a few honorable mentions. Check out these activities if you have more time in the city!
- Jumeirah Mosque
- Jumeirah Public Beach
- Dubai museum
- Dubai Miracle Gardens
- Global Village
- IMG Worlds of Adventure
- Expo City
- Sky Views Dubai Observatory
- La Perle Show
Dubai has become one of the top cities in the world with its lavish amenities, vibrant nightlife, and world-class attractions. Despite being a tourist trap, there are still a few pockets of culture where you can soak in the UAE’s humble heritage. Many of the attractions tend to be flashily over the top, so prepare for an expensive vacation. However, those searching for luxurious getaway and a decadent party vibe will definitely love the city. A week is just enough time to hit the main highlights before you bleed your bank account dry. For the polar opposite but still amazing adventure through the Middle East, check out the other half of our trip from Jordan. For more essential tips and all the rules you’ll need to know before visiting the UAE, check out this post. Thanks for reading and keep leveling up!
Check out the top 10 best experiences to have in Dubai here!
Check out the views from the world’s tallest building in our Burj Khalifa travel vlog!
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