Every new place that we visit has its own uniqueness and distinct experiences to offer! There are grandiose places with mountains, some have the tranquility of oceans and rivers, while some carry a rich history and ancient architecture. However, when it comes to Dubai, you get the best of – all worlds! Situated on the coastal range of the Persian Gulf, Dubai is one of the most popular as well as the busiest tourist attractions in the whole world! The whole of UAE has shown massive growth in the 21st century, turning Dubai from an unsung fishing village to the largest cosmopolitan megalopolis.
Dubai skyline
When people think of Dubai, they find it synonymous with the city of majestic deserts or tall skyscrapers. But we all know Dubai is much more than that! It is the world’s center for marvelous man-made innovations and architectural wonders. The main focus of the city lies in tourism and hospitality. It is the perfect holiday destination for anyone and everyone – whether you want to spend a few days overseas with your family or you want to go on a leisure-filled honeymoon trip. Even the adventure-seekers visit Dubai for thrilling experiences that you will find nowhere else!
Dubai has many options
If a trip to Dubai is on cards for you in the coming months, then you have landed at the right place. Aside from exploring the impressive skyscrapers and shopping malls, Dubai has many attractions that will leave you speechless! Although, there is no doubt that malls and skyscrapers of Dubai are awe-spiring. From desert tours to cultural experiences, cruises, and luxury escapades, you name it and Dubai has it! Dubai is known to be the most expensive city in the United Arab Emirates and one of the most interesting cities in the Middle East to explore. With this post, we will be taking you through a handpicked list of 10 unmissable spots to visit in Dubai. So take out your notepad and jot down the names of our handpicked favorite places right away!
Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is one of the biggest shopping malls in the world! It houses over 1300 stores, including local businesses as well as international luxury brands. This mall is truly a heaven for those individuals who are shopaholics to the core. The Dubai Mall also has a variety of entertainment zones such as grand movie theaters, aquariums, an underwater zoo, an ice rink, and a lot of other kid-friendly attractions. Even if you don’t want to shop for anything, you should definitely enjoy the thrill of “window” shopping here in one of the world’s most famous malls!
On the outside of the Mall, you can enjoy the charming views of the colossal fountains and take Instagram-worthy pictures!
Jumeirah Mosque
The Jumeirah Mosque is the only mosque in Dubai where visitors from different faiths are allowed. It is the most popular among tourists. However, when you are visiting the mosque, you should make sure that you are dressed modestly as it is important to get an entry there. This grand mosque is built with white stone in the Fatimid style.
Tourists can visit this mosque six days a week, while Fridays are reserved for prayers. If you would like to know about the mosque’s cultural and architectural history in-depth, you can hire a guide with knowledge about this mosque.
Dubai Desert
To escape from the hustles and bustles of the loud and grandiose Dubai city, a lot of people visit the desert, and also to enjoy the fun activities at the desert that are offered in Dubai. The activities offered in these extensive deserts of Dubai are desert safari, Dubai dune buggy, camel riding, quad biking, as well as luxe dinners accompanied by a belly dancing show.
You can make your bookings for the Dubai desert safari in advance with a lot of tour companies present in Dubai. To explore the Arabian sand dunes up and close, the desert safari is the best way to go forward! You should make sure that you visit Dubai during the months of winter if you plan to indulge in desert-related activities – as outdoor activities can be quite uncomfortable as well as challenging when the temperature is soaring high during rest of the year.
Burj Khalifa
You cannot not visit Burj Khalifa while you are on your trip to Dubai! This massive 828 meters high skyscraper is a must-visit tourist attraction with spectacular views of the city from way above! The unmissable view of the sunset from the top of Burj Khalifa is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of experience. Burj Khalifa, being the tallest free-standing structure in the world, has the fastest elevator that can take you to the 124th floor for the most surreal experience of your life. You can enjoy a luxurious evening here on the topmost floor with a good meal and a fine dining experience. Since this is Dubai’s most crowded attraction, you will have to book your tickets well in advance.
Deep Dive Dubai
Have you ever wanted to deep dive into the world’s deepest pool? Well, you are going to find that pool only in Dubai! This place has a 60 meters deep pool where professionals can go on a deep dive, while anyone who is over the age of 10 years can enjoy other water activities like scuba diving and surface snorkeling. To ensure the safety of deep divers, this pool with 14 million liters of freshwater is equipped with 56 cameras. The deep divers can explore the adventurous underwater city for a wonderful experience in the waters!
Dubai Frame
Dubai keeps building on its list of architectural marvels, the Dubai frame being one of the latest additions to join the list. It is situated in Zabeel Park which is between New and old Dubai. The two 150-meter tall towers are connected to each other with a 93 meters long bridge. Well, walking over the glass bridge can trigger the acrophobic in you – but after a while, you would definitely start to enjoy your “skywalk”.
Palm Jumeirah Island
You may have never heard of man-made islands until you came to know about Dubai’s famous Palm Jumeirah island which is made up in the shape of a palm tree! It is known for its spectacular hotels, posh housing areas, and upmarket restaurants. The famous seven-star hotel of Dubai, the Burj Al Arab is also located on this island. You can get the perfect aerial view of this palm tree-shaped island with a helicopter ride and witness this wonder from the sky!
Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
Located in Bur Dubai, Al Fahidi is an ancient neighbourhood that gives its visitors a peek at how the livelihood of people looked like in Dubai before its urbanization. It has preserved the traditional buildings and ancient architecture that give the tourists a nostalgic glimpse of the past era. If you want to have a deeper understanding of the local culture and heritage, you must definitely visit SMCCU.
Dubai Garden Glow
Are you visiting Dubai with your family and kids? Then the Dubai Garden Glow should be a part of your itinerary. This garden is located inside Zabeel Park and it is divided into different theme parks. At the Garden Glow, your kids can have fun and learn about wildlife as well as trees simultaneously. To get the best experience at this place, try to plan your visit after sunset so that the weather will be more pleasing!
Dubai’s Gold Souk
Gold lovers – this one’s for you! Dubai’s Gold Souk attracts visitors from all over the place who are interested in gold ornaments or buying gold for investment purposes. Here, you can buy gold and diamond jewellery pieces at comparatively cheaper rates. The price of gold in Dubai stays significantly lower than in other places of the world.
About The Author
Robeena Brown is a travel blogger & destination expert living in UAE and works for local tourism companies like Arabiers. If you have been looking forward to touring Dubai, getting a visa, extending stays and exploring the city, you can follow her on social media.
