tourist book dubai

10 best books about Dubai to read before you travel

If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, add these 10 books to your reading list first. From historical fiction to non-fiction accounts of modern life in the city, these reads will give you a well-rounded perspective of what to expect on your travels.

You might also be interested in: 

• Visiting Burj Khalifa in Dubai? Our tips + how to book tickets
• 8 Hour Dubai Layover Itinerary – Culture and Shopping
• Dubai Airport Transfer – How to get from Dubai Airport to the city centre

Best travel guide books about Dubai

There is no shortage of travel guide books about Dubai, but which ones are the best? If you’re looking for a comprehensive guide covering all the major attractions, the 5 best books about Dubai to read before you travel are listed below.

Lonely Planet Dubai & Abu Dhabi

The Lonely Planet Dubai & Abu Dhabi is the perfect guide for those planning a trip to these two amazing cities. It includes all the essential information on what to see and do and practical tips on accommodation, transportation, and food. The book also features insider tips from locals to get the most out of your visit. Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s skyline from the top of the Burj Khalifa or experience the traditional culture of the souks, this guide will help you plan the perfect trip.

Lonely Planet Pocket Dubai: top sights, local experiences (Pocket Guide)

The Lonely Planet Pocket Dubai is an excellent guide for those looking to experience the best of what the city has to offer. It covers the top sights and local experiences in an easily accessible format. The guide includes information on the best time to visit Dubai, what to see and do, and where to eat and drink. It also provides an overview of the city’s history and culture. The Pocket Guide is an essential tool for anyone planning a trip to Dubai.

DK Eyewitness Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi (Pocket Travel Guide)

The DK Eyewitness Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Pocket Travel Guide is your handy guide to the two most famous cities in the United Arab Emirates. This pocket-sized book is packed with insider tips on what to see and do in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, from exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa to shopping in the world-famous Gold Souk. 

With its clear maps and easy-to-use layout, the DK Eyewitness Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Pocket Travel Guide will help you plan your trip with ease. Whether you’re looking for the best beaches, hotels, or the best nightlife, this guide has it all. 

So, whether you’re looking for a quick city break or a more extended holiday, the DK Eyewitness Top 10 Dubai and Abu Dhabi Pocket Travel Guide is your essential companion.

Dubai for Kids Travel Book – Activity Book, Pocket Guide & Travel Journal

This travel book is the perfect way for kids to learn about and explore Dubai! The activity book is packed with fun activities, puzzles, and games. At the same time, the pocket guide provides all the essential information about Dubai, from its history and culture to its attractions and activities. The travel journal is the perfect way for kids to keep track of their experiences in Dubai, with space to write, draw, and paste in photos and souvenirs.

Dubai Marco Polo Pocket Travel Guide - with pull out map (Marco Polo Pocket Guides)

The Dubai Marco Polo Pocket Travel Guide is an excellent guide for those looking to travel to Dubai. The guide includes a pull-out map which is extremely helpful in getting around the city. The guide also provides information on the best places to eat, drink and shop and attractions and activities to do while in Dubai. Overall, the Dubai Marco Polo Pocket Travel Guide is an excellent guide for those wanting to travel to Dubai and explore everything the city offers.

5 Best non-fiction books about Dubai

If you want to learn more about the history of Dubai, its leaders or the region, these 5 books are an excellent place to start! 

Sheikh Zayed - An Eternal Legacy

Sheikh Zayed: An Eternal Legacy is a book about the life and times of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the founder and first President of the United Arab Emirates. The book chronicles his life from his early days as a young prince in the desert to his years as a Ruler and President, and finally to his legacy as one of the most influential leaders. Sheikh Zayed was a visionary leader who had a profound impact on the development of his country and the region. He was a man of great wisdom and compassion, and his legacy will continue to inspire future generations.

My Story by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is the Vice President and Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and the Ruler of Dubai. In his memoir, My Story, Sheikh Mohammed shares his thoughts on various topics, from his childhood and education to his experiences as a leader and a businessman. He also offers advice on how to achieve success in life. 

My Story is an inspiring and insightful book that provides a rare glimpse into the mind of one of the most influential leaders in the world today. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum is a man who has achieved great things, and in this book, he shares his secrets to success. If you are looking for inspiration, or simply want to learn more about one of the most fascinating men, then My Story is a must-read.

Sheikh CEO - Lessons in Leadership from Mohammed Bin Rashid al Maktoum

Sheikh CEO is the story of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai and one of the most powerful men in the world. In this book, Sheikh Mohammed shares his story of how he became one of the most successful leaders in the world. He shares his secrets to success and how he has been able to create one of the most prosperous countries in the world. This book is an inspirational story that will motivate readers to achieve their dreams.

Showpiece City by Todd Reisz

In Showpiece City, Todd Reisz explores how architecture has helped make Dubai one of the most iconic and fascinating cities in the world. 

From the early days of its development, when ambitious projects like the Palm Islands and the Burj Khalifa were first conceived, to more recent initiatives like the Expo 2020 site and the Dubai Creek Harbour, architecture has played a crucial role in shaping Dubai’s unique identity. 

Reisz looks at how Dubai’s built environment has reflected the city’s cosmopolitan character, its aspirations to be a global hub and its commitment to sustainable development. He also discusses the challenges architects face in creating a built environment that can meet the needs of a rapidly growing population while preserving the city’s distinctive character. 

Showpiece City is an essential guide to understanding Dubai’s built environment and its significance in the 21st century.

The End of Empire on the gulf by Tancred Bradshaw

The book The End of Empire on the gulf by Tancred Bradshaw is a detailed account of the withdrawal of the British Empire from the Gulf Region in 1971. It covers the political and economic background of the decision, the logistical challenges involved in the withdrawal, and its impact on the region’s people and countries. The book is based on extensive research and interviews with key participants in the withdrawal process.

3 Best non-fiction books about Dubai

Looking for a great book about Dubai to read on the plane or by the pool? Why not have a look at one of these fantastic non-fiction books! 

Temporary People by Deepak Unnikrishnan

In “Temporary People,” Deepak Unnikrishnan tells the stories of migrant workers in the United Arab Emirates. These workers, who come from countries like India and Nepal, often work in construction or domestic labor. They are paid little and are treated poorly. The workers live in labor camps, often crowded into small rooms. They have few rights and can be deported at any time. Unnikrishnan tells the workers’ stories with compassion and humor. He shows how they struggle to make a living in a country that does not value them. “Temporary People” is a powerful and moving book about the lives of migrant workers in the UAE.

The Sand Fish: A Novel From Dubai by Maha Gargash

The Sand Fish: A Novel From Dubai is a 2009 novel by Maha Gargash. The novel tells the story of a young Emirati woman, Noora, living in Dubai in the early 21st century. Noora is a modern woman working to balance her traditional values with her desire for independence and self-expression. The novel follows Noora as she navigates through love, family, and friendship. The Sand Fish is a coming-of-age story that offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Emirati women.

A Summer Revenge by Tom Callaghan

A Summer Revenge is a gripping thriller from Tom Callaghan. When a body is found in the grounds of a stately home, DCI Kate Daniels and her team are called in to investigate.

As they try to piece together who the victim is and how they ended up there, they realise that this is no ordinary case. The more they dig, the more secrets they uncover, and it soon becomes clear that someone is determined to keep those secrets buried.

With time running out, Kate must catch the killer before they strike again. A Summer Revenge is a fast-paced, edge-of-your-seat read that will keep you guessing until the very end.

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Vacations in Dubai

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Most popular dubai flight and hotel deals, all inclusive vacation packages to dubai, last minute vacation packages to dubai, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a vacation in dubai, tips for finding dubai package deals.

• There are loads of types of vacations in Dubai and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $666; Family vacation $593; Romantic vacation $805; Luxury vacation $759; Budget vacation $462.

Why should you book a vacation package to Dubai?

With a good Dubai vacation package, you can experience this Persian Gulf emirate's famous 4X4 Desert Safaris and races, visit the Burj Khalifa, skydive over the world-famous Palm Jumeirah Island or take your kids to the Dubai Sky Polar pass or Dubai Atlantis Aquaven

When should you book a vacation package to Dubai?

The winter season in Dubai is the perfect time to take a vacation on the white sands of the Persian Gulf. From November to March it's the rainy season, which is the only cool period. The rains are short lived, however. Book your stay in advance to get the best Dubai package deals.

Where should you stay in Dubai during your vacation?

For any vacation type in dubai:.

Rove Downtown Dubai "is made for social media." The special hang out lounge features comfy sofas, a wall full of artworks and an eclectic collection of bric-a-brac. Many of the spacious rooms feature interconnecting doors perfect for families, 48-inch interactive TV screens, sofa beds for extra guests, a mini fridge, secure safe and in-room coffee and tea stations.

Located at the further end of Dubai Marina, Grosvenor House is a sophisticated twin tower hotel designed with marble floors, plush carpets, and mahogany furnishings. It's famous for offering the best Asian spa, heated pools, free spacious parking, a superb club lounge, airport transfers and shuttle bus services, and more.

For family vacations in Dubai:

The JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel is a family-friendly resort located on the shores of the Persian Gulf. It offers a 9-hole golf course and horse riding. The breakfast-inclusive stays give your family access to temperature controlled swimming pools, shuttle bus services, and airport transportation.

Popularly known as the "House By The Sea," the Beit Al Bahar stand-alone villas offer complete privacy for your family. The hotel offers bed and breakfast, shuttle bus services, dry cleaning services, WiFi and room service, and is located in Jumeirah St next to the Wild Wadi Waterpark.

For romantic vacations in Dubai:

Located at the entrance to Jumeirah Island, the FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai Hotel is the perfect hideout for couples who want to reignite their passion and create their own epic stories at the beach while sharing inspiring moments. The hotel has a contemporary architectural design, has shuttle bus services, airport transfers, hot tub and air conditioning in all rooms, as well as plenty of parking space.

Atlantis, the Palm Hotel is a gem of sheer beauty located off Crescent Road. Atlantis provides breakfast, airport transportation, and dry cleaning services. The award-winning chef restaurants, aquarium and waterpark, and the Ocean Deluxe rooms are a must experience for couples.

For luxury vacations in Dubai:

With rotating beds that have a view of the city, the Burj Al Arab is the most luxurious hotel in Dubai. The opulent interiors are designed with towering golden pillars and stairs made of marble and gold. The hotel's Dubai travel package gives you the opportunity to arrive by helicopter, experience VIP services and have a 24-hour private butler.

The one and only Palm Dubai offers peace and tranquility in Dubai's breathtaking western portion of the Palm. Enjoy the bed and breakfast, Moorish and Andalusian design terraces and balconies or a suite with a private plunge pool.

For budget vacations in Dubai:

City Max Hotel Bur Dubai offers value for money comfort with breakfast, in-room refrigerators, access to an outdoor pool and free parking included in its Dubai vacation packages

Located a few meters from Dubai Creek, the 4-acre Arabian Park Hotel offers free and ample parking, an outdoor pool, bar/lounge, quiet surroundings, a shuttle bus service, and transport to and from the airport.

Where to stay in Dubai

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Dubai in 3 Days: The Definitive Tourist Guide Book That Helps You Travel Smart and Save Time Paperback – January 11, 2017

Purchase options and add-ons.

• Print length 52 pages
• Language English
• Publication date January 11, 2017
• Dimensions 5 x 0.12 x 8 inches
• ISBN-10 1520361041
• ISBN-13 978-1520361048
• See all details

Product details

• Publisher ‏ : ‎ Independently published (January 11, 2017)
• Language ‏ : ‎ English
• Paperback ‏ : ‎ 52 pages
• ISBN-10 ‏ : ‎ 1520361041
• ISBN-13 ‏ : ‎ 978-1520361048
• Item Weight ‏ : ‎ 3.84 ounces
• Dimensions ‏ : ‎ 5 x 0.12 x 8 inches
• #1,179 in General Middle East Travel Guides
• #3,535 in Budget Travel Guides

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Visit Dubai

Find the perfect place to stay in dubai, top things to do in dubai, attractions, tours, and activities in dubai.

Dubai Desert Safari Tour with Dunes Bashing and Buffet Dinner (unique desert )

10 - 14 Seater Toyota Haice Tourist MiniVan Rental Dubai

Dubai to Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque & Qasr Al Watan Palace

Evening Desert Safari with BBQ dinner(Pvt)

Private Romantic Tour In Dubai

Polaris 1000CC Buggy 04 Seater with Camel Riding and Sand Skiing

Dubai Private Tour from Ras Al-Khaima

A full-day sightseeing tour of some of the highlights of Dubai

Dubai Marina Luxury Yacht Tour with BF

Dubai Full Day Car Hire (8-Hours for 1 to 4 people)

Enjoy with Us Your Breakfast on Luxury Yacht

See more things to do in Dubai

Recommended museums in dubai, where to find art and culture in dubai.

Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi Ticket

Olioli Dubai's First Experiential Play Children Museum

Louver Museum Abu Dhabi

A half-day tour from Dubai with transportation

3D World Selfie Museum Dubai Admission

A ticket to visit a museum with an interactive gallery full of optical illusions

Museum of the Future

Admission to an immersive museum exploring numerous facets of humanity's future

Abu Dhabi City Tour and Louver Museum Admission

A sightseeing tour of Abu Dhabi, including the Corniche and the Heritage Village

Admission to the Museum of The Future

An immersive experience to learn about our planet's future

Admission to Sharjah Art Museum

A ticket to explore the museum of art in Sharjah and indulge your senses

Admission to Louver Abu Dhabi

An opportunity to Immerse yourself in the story of humanity, from origin to globalization

Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi Pass

Dubai: the city's best neighborhoods

Find a great area to stay in dubai.

2.9 miles from downtown

Bur Dubai is an important legislative center. You’ll find the Al Fahidi Historical District and the Dubai Museum nearby – a rich collection that chronicles the city’s development. Visit the Grand Mosque with its enormous minarets, or the traditional textile souks, restaurants and shisha cafés lining Dubai Creek.

Places to stay from $14 a night

5.9 miles from downtown

This area in "old Dubai" is a remarkable contrast to Downtown’s shiny newness. Be prepared to haggle in the traditional souks offering spices, textiles and gold jewelry. Wander along the port to watch fishermen transporting their catch on traditional dhows. Deira City Centre Mall has dining and entertainment for the masses.

Places to stay from $13 a night

5.8 miles from downtown

Umm Suqeim is a quiet community located along Jumeriah Beach. Wild Wadi Waterpark offers family fun in the form of slides and simulated surfing, and Jumeriah Beach is perfect for getting some sun. Madinat Jumeirah Souk is an Arabian market that’s great for antiques, oils, art, and more. The 7-star Burj Al Arab hotel is also in this area.

Places to stay from $104 a night

1.9 miles from downtown

Jumeirah is primarily a residential area, but it's also home to the lively Madinat Souk (a traditional Arabian market). The area is filled with low-rise villas. It’s fun to rent a bike and ride along Jumeirah Beach, with its 30 miles of pristine (and private) coastline – head to Jumeirah Beach Park for a publicly accessible area.

Places to stay from $109 a night

4 miles from downtown

Oud Metha is a large residential area only 10 minutes from Dubai International Airport. The designers of Wafi City and Raffles Hotel took some inspiration from ancient Egypt when designing the buildings at this shopping, dining and entertainment complex, which are shaped like pyramids. Recover from retail therapy with a day wandering in Wonderland Theme and Water Park.

Places to stay from $27 a night

3.5 miles from downtown

Ay caramba! Al Karama does a roaring trade in replica goods. Burrow through its bustling backstreets and “secret rooms” to peruse endless arrays of “Prada” handbags, “Rolex” watches and “Gucci” shoes. When it comes to food, the neighbourhood is 100% genuine. Pop into Pakistani restaurant Ravi to savour spicy Biryani chicken and sweet lassi yoghurt.

Places to stay from $36 a night

Dubai Marina

11.6 miles from downtown

Dubai Marina is on track to become the world’s largest man-made marina, with construction to be completed in the next few years. It’s a luxury waterfront destination with high-end commercial and residential buildings, including Cayan Tower, the world’s tallest high-rise building with the famous 90-degree twist, and Marina Mall.

Places to stay from $20 a night

About Dubai

Including tips for the best time to visit dubai.

Home to Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, Dubai is synonymous with soaring skyscrapers that rise beautifully above sunny beaches and desert panoramas. The hallmark of this city is its diversity of attractions coupled with an abundance of opportunities to experience Arabian hospitality.

You can expect to have a packed schedule of things to do when visiting this modern Arabian city, from theme parks to desert safaris. One of the standout city landmarks is the Burj Al Arab, a sail-shaped structure set against the backdrop of the Arabian Sea. A short drive away is Downtown Dubai, home to Dubai Fountain – a visually exciting spectacle of illuminated water jets dancing to music. Thrill seekers can even experience adrenaline-pumping action at Skydive Dubai, Deep Dive Dubai and Dubai Parks and Resorts.

No trip to Dubai is complete without a shopping spree at its glitzy malls and traditional souks, or marketplaces. The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence, an open-air promenade, comes alive during the winter months while Mall of the Emirates and Dubai Mall offer year-round opportunities to shop for luxury goods. For local souvenirs, hop over to Spice Souk, Perfume Souk or Gold Souk.

Dubai's sun-drenched coastline – stretching from Jebel Ali to Al Mamzar – is dotted with numerous public beaches, offering everything from energising water sports to tranquil swimming spots. Kite surfers and paddleboarding enthusiasts can head to Kite Beach, while sunbathers can relax at Sunset Beach.

Dubai is served by two airports, Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport, the former being one of the busiest airports in the world.

From $23 per night

Next weekend

From $92 per night

Points of interest in Dubai

Stay near the top sightseeing spots in dubai.

Burj Al Arab Tower

6.6 miles from downtown

Burj Khalifa

0.2 miles from downtown

0.4 miles from downtown

The Walk at JBR

11.9 miles from downtown

Burjuman Mall

4.5 miles from downtown

Mall of the Emirates

6.9 miles from downtown

Dubai Marina Mall

Ibn Battuta Mall

14.1 miles from downtown

Deira City Center

5.4 miles from downtown

Madinat Jumeirah

Dubai reviews

What other travelers say about dubai.

Dubai offers a lot of things to visit, it's a must to go...

April 6, 2024

Dubai offers a lot of things to visit, it's a must to go to Karama, Deira if you like to enjoy local experiences. Food great food, Indian, Pakistani, African, Lebanese, ME food in general. Asian, European, LATAM food are insanely overpriced and of course they won't fulfill your expectations. Slavic cuisine is becoming trendy, it is also tasty. Dubai Marina and downtown are great, but too crowded everyday.

Impeccably clean and highly organized.

April 5, 2024

Impeccably clean and highly organized. It's modern infrastucture. I advise visitors to AVOID using the BLACK taxis. They do not use meters, they overcharge and do not accept cards. The taxis with the TAXI sign on the roof are professional and quite cheap.

Dubai is a fantastic place to visit if you want to see...

April 4, 2024

Dubai is a fantastic place to visit if you want to see exotica that is beyond the reach of your average person. Every 5th car is a Lamborghini driven by young men. A millionaires play ground for the rich. Some of the best architecture on the planet but over the past 10 years prices have soared in all areas and your average person struggles to survive.v Absolute great place to visit but far better value elsewhere.

Dubai is lovely, the one negative that I experienced was...

April 3, 2024

Dubai is lovely, the one negative that I experienced was having my Gimbal stolen from my bag when I went to view Burj Khalifa. Very disappointing and different from other experiences I have had in Dubai.

Dubai is a city worth experiencing.

Dubai is a city worth experiencing. Full of modern, innovative and ancient attractions. The view of the skyscrapers is stunning, the Museum of the Future is very interesting but I recommend booking activities such as the desert safari (not to be missed) and guided tours that allow you to understand the future and past vision of this city. Very pleasant experience at the global village. Mainly Indian and Pakistani food prevails but you can eat well almost everywhere. The Ramadan period was wonderful as the shops and supermarkets stayed open until late. Taxis are cheap and very convenient while the conditions and rates for purchasing trams are a little inconvenient and difficult for a tourist to manage. But it is an experience to have at least once in a lifetime.

Burj Khalifa must see the need to buy tickets in advance

Burj Khalifa must see the need to buy tickets in advance The Dubai Mall - The World's Largest Shopping Mall Take several days to see the most important places in Dubai Everyone speaks English and people are helpful and friendly!

Popular places to stay in Dubai

Stay in some of the best accommodations dubai has to offer.

Downtown Dubai, Dubai

From $234 per night 9.8 Exceptional 186 reviews

Dubai Marina, Dubai

From $245 per night 9.5 Exceptional 4,310 reviews

From $97 per night 9.5 Exceptional 184 reviews

From $155 per night 9.5 Exceptional 134 reviews

From $259 per night 9.4 Wonderful 1,459 reviews

Other accommodations in Dubai

Pick from a wide variety of places to stay in dubai.

From $20 per night

From $106 per night

From $109 per night

Glamping Sites

From $755 per night

Serviced apartments

From $32 per night

Vacation Homes

From $599 per night

• Guest Houses

From $49 per night

From $12 per night

From $185 per night

From $31 per night

Campgrounds

From per night

Luxury Tents

Self-Catering Accommodations

From $17 per night

Other attractions and activities in Dubai

More things to do and see in dubai.

1 Hour Buggy Ride Self-Drive With Camel Ride And Sandboarding

Overnight Safari with Awesome Desert Stay, Adventures, Entertainment, BBQ Dinner

Desert safari Tour with BBQ Dinner

Morning Desert Safari with Camel Ride and Quad Bike Riding

Old Dubai Food Experience

Guided Scuba Diving Adventure in Jumeirah Dubai

Dubai Desert Safari

An afternoon of desert dune-bashing, followed by dinner and entertainment

Burj Khalifa At the Top Ticket & Evening Desert Safari Combo

2 Days 2 Park- Ferrari World +Yas Waterworld + Warner Bros World

Dune Buggy Desert Safari | 2 Seater Buggy Adventure

Dubai Morning Safari With Camel Trek

Self-Guided Audio Tour in Dubai

A downloadable audio guide with facts and information about the city

Morning Red Dunes Desert Safari Dubai

Adventure Tour with Dune Bashing, ATVs & Dinner

Sunset safari with dune bashing, quad bikes and camel rides with dinner buffet and shows

Dubai Fountain Show & Burj Khalifa Lake Boat Ride

A cruise on the Burj Khalifa's lake during the Dubai Fountain show

Dubai Morning Desert Safari: Red Dunes, Sandboarding, Camel Ride at Bedouin

Private Morning Desert Safari

Private 30 minutes Jet ski ride in Jumeirah

Stand Up Paddle Boarding with Pickup & Drop Off

Dubai Parks Combo 1 Day any 2 Parks withTransfer from Dubai Hotel

Museum Of Illusion

Ticket to Trampo Extreme Nakheel Mall

Opportunity to experience a variety of activities on a tour of a mall in Dubai

Dubai: Unique SUNSET Buggy Red Dunes Safari

PLAY Dubai ( VR Park) Experience at Dubai Mall

Desert Quad Bike Safari

A chance to drive a quad bike and try out some dune bashing

60 Minutes Thrilling Jet Ski Experience in Dubai Marina

Caravanserai Exclusive Safari

Exciting Sand Drift in Dubai, UAE

Morning Desert Safari in 4x4 Shared Vehicle

Arabian Glamping Adventure in Desert

30-minute Jet Ski Tour to Burj Al Arab

A ride on a jet ski around Dubai Marina with a stop at Dubai’s iconic hotel

Ekart Zabeel Dubai With Transfer

Entry Admission Ticket to Wild Wadi Water park Jumeirah

The Lost Chambers Aquarium Scuba Diving Experience

An activity to dove in a unique location with a certified instructor

Three-day PADI Open Water Diving Course

A chance to learn diving in three days involving practical sessions and an online course

Dubai: Camel Caravan, Bedouin Breakfast with Al Marmoom Oasis

Dubai Jet Ski Tour

A 30-minute guided tour to see the famous Burj al Arab up close

Dubai 3h Sea escape: Swim! Tan! Sightsee!

Audi Foil Experience inside Palm Jumeirah Dubai

Private Off Road 4X4 Desert Self-Driving in Dubai

Jet Ski on the beach of Dubai

Water Sports Activities Package

AYA Universe Experience in Dubai

Private Morning 4x4 Dune Bashing With Camel Ride

Luxurious Desert Safari & BBQ Feast in Dubai's Golden Sands

Red Dune Evening Desert Safari with Sandbashing and BBQ Dinner

Legoland Water Park with Private Transfer

Scuba Diving in Fujairah with Private Transfers

Jetpack Experience in Dubai

A 20-minute jetpack flight with views of Dubai's skyline

Two-hour Dubai Jet Ski Tour

A jet ski adventure to take in some of Dubai's famous landmarks

Dubai: All Inclusive Desert Safari with ATV, Camel, Horse ride, Vip & more

Dubai Morning Red Dunes with Camel Safari & Sandsurf

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Tickets With Private Pickup and Drop off

La Perle by Dragone Show

Admission to a show featuring storytelling, acrobatics, aerial displays and other incredible acts

Dubai Ice Rink Tickets with pickup and drop off

Ticket/Pass in Mamzar Beach Park Dubai

60 Minute Speed Boat Ride in Dubai with Private Transfer

Lahbab Desert Buggy Ride Experience

A guided buggy ride experience through Dubai's Lahbab Desert

Dubai Desert Safari Morning with Quad Biking and Camel Ride

Dubai: Extreme Red Dune Buggy Desert Safari Adventure

Morning Camel Trekking with Dune Bashing and Sand Boarding

Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner and Camel Ride Experience in Dubai

One-hour Dubai Jet Ski Tour

A chance to jet ski along Dubai’s coastline and see landmarks such as Burj Al Arab and The Atlantis

Dubai Desert Quad Safari

A mix of adventure, food and fun in the desert

7 Seater Car/Minivan With Driver - Half/Full Day

Desert Safari Self Drive Tour

Wakeboard Experience in Dubai

Morning Desert Safari with Quad Bike, Sand Boarding and Camel Ride

Dubai Fountain Show Lake Ride Tickets with Private Transfer

Premium Morning Desert Safari in 4x4 Private Vehicle Up To 6 Pax

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi Day Trip

A trip to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi with hotel transfers

Private Morning Red Dune Desert Safari with Camel Ride

A Thrilling Journey from Dubai to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Entry Ticket: IMG Worlds of Adventure

Indoor Skydiving in Ifly Dubai

Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari BBQ, Camel Ride, Entertainments

Dubai Desert Safari With BBQ dinner

Historical and Modern Dubai: 4-Hour Tour & Museum Admission Dubai city tour 2A

Admission to 3D Black Light Mini Golf

A chance to play an indoor, 18-hole mini golf course

One-hour Jet Ski Experience

A chance to ride a jet ski

Jet Ski Rental for 30 min in La Mer

Camel Trekking

Guided Sunset Safari Trip

An adventure to the desert with activities and entertainment

Abu Dhabi City Tour & Sheikh Zayed Grand Drive through Louver Museum

The Love Boats Dubai: 90 Minutes Tour

Radical SST Passenger Ride

Desert Safari Adventure with Dinner

A trip into the desert outside Dubai, culminating with a meal

Dubai: Quad Bike Safari, Camels, & Camp with BBQ Dinner

Dubai Desert Safari: Camel Ride, Sandboarding, BBQ & Soft Drinks

Fly Boarding Dubai

Two-hour Trampo Extreme Adventure

Admission to an indoor park that offers jumping and climbing attractions

Dubai Self Guided Sherlock Holmes Murder Mystery Game

Morning Desert Safari with Adventure Activities

A chance to experience dune bashing in Dubai's red desert

Glow Garden Ticket & Two Way Private Transfers

Private Sunrise Red Dune Desert Safari with Dune Bashing

Desert Safari with sunset only

Dubai Desert Safari With Camp Activities and ATV Self Drive Quad Bike

Flying Cup Package at JBR Beach

Flying Cup experience for panoramic views of Dubai and the coastline with optional snacks

Desert Safari with Dune Bashing and Unlimited 4 course Barbecue Dinner

Mina Zayed Self-guided Walking Tour

An audio tour to discover Abu Dhabi's busy port area

Afternoon Dubai Dune Buggy with Self Drive

Love Boats Dubai for 75 Minutes

Desert Safari With Camel Ride

Burj Khalifa- The Burj Club Saturday BBQ Brunch

Dubai Speedboat Tour - Marina, Atlantis, Palm & Burj Al Arab

Desert Adventure Tour with BBQ Dinner & Live Shows

Half-day tour with 4x4 dune bashing, camel rides, BBQ dinner and seven live shows

Two-hour Scuba Diving Experience

A lesson in scuba diving with an instructor in Dubai

Dubai Desert Safari by Camel and 4x4 Jeep with BBQ Dinner with Live Belly Dance

Burj Khalifa Tickets at the top Level 124 and 125

Scuba Diving Adventure in Dubai

Desert Safari Experience and Palm Jumeirah Visit

An activity-filled desert adventure followed by a visit to a private beach club

Dubai Desert Safari with Camel Ride, Shows and Dinner

Premium Desert Safari, with Quad Bike BBQ Dinner, with 3 shows

Private Desert Safari Red Dune with BBQ, Sand Boarding and Camel Ride

Glow Garden, Dino Park and Magic Park Combo Tickets

Dubai: Morning Desert Safari, Dune Bashing, Sand Boarding & Camel Ride

Formula Yas Driving Experience in Abu Dhabi

A thrilling experience to drive like a professional racer

Quad Bike Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner, Dune Bashing & Live Shows

Glow Garden Tickets with Transfers

Admission to 3D World Selfie Museum

A chance to take memorable photos among optical illusion art with hotel transfers

Overnight Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner and Breakfast

Desert Safari with Dinner and Entertainment

An adventure to explore Dubai's desert landscape

Mangroves Kayaking with Pickup & Drop Off

Abu Dhabi Evening Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner and all Camp Activities

AYA Universe Dubai Tickets

Admission to AYA Universe

Ticket to the attraction in Dubai

Evening Desert Safari Dubai With Dinner Buffet: Private Vehicle

Desert Safari Dubai with Dune Bashing, Activities and Dinner

Sunrise Desert Safari - A Magical Morning in Dubai

Camel Trekking and Morning Safari with Sand Boarding

Full Day Safari Grand Adventures with Dune Bash on 4X4 in Dubai

Dubai Desert Safari with Dinner in PRIVATE 4x4 Vehicle

Wild Wadi Water Park with Round-Trip Transfers

Morning Desert Safari in Dubai with Camel Ride

1-Hour Dune Buggy Self Drive with Camel Ride and Sand Boarding in Red Dunes

4 Hours Guided Dubai Morning Desert Safari with Camel Riding

1001 Adventure Tour

Private Sunset Desert Safari:SandSurfing, Camel Ride & BBQ dinner

Desert Dunes Quad Bike Tour

The perfect mix of nature and culture at Ras al Khaimah with an optional dinner

Overnight Camel Caravan with BBQ Dinner and Arabic Breakfast

Premium Sundowner Red Dunes & Camel Safari with BBQ Dinner

Desert Dinner Experience at Bedouin Oasis

A dinner experience in the dunes of Ras Al-Khaimah

Motiongate Dubai Theme Park Admission Ticket

1 Hour Jet Ski From Dubai

Emirate Palace Hotel Abu Dhabi Coffee

Parasailing in Dubai

Dune Buggy Adventure

A chance to drive an open-air vehicle through the Arabian Desert

Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi Admission Ticket

Morning Desert Safari in Dubai with Quad Bike and Camel Ride

Self-Drive 2-Seat Buggy Adventure at Bedouin Camp from Dubai

Morning Dune Bashing, Including Camel Riding and Sand Boarding from Dubai

Dune Buggy Dubai With Jet Ski Ride Combo Package

Desert Adventure Tour with BBQ Dinner

An adventure across the desert with dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, shisha smoking and more

Dubai Red Dune Desert Safari: Camel Ride, Sandboarding & BBQ

Dubai Desert Safari With Camel Ride, Horse Ride, Falcon Photography & Dinner

Al Marmoom Oasis Cabana or Luxury Tent with Bedouin Dinner

Premium Desert Safari, 6 people private vehicle

Drift Taxi Passenger Experience

F-1 circuit drift ride in a Chevy Camaro SS

Dubai Butterfly Garden Tickets with Sharing Transfers

4-Hour Multi-Activity Experience with Polaris 1000cc Buggy Ride on Dubai Desert

Burj Khalifa Ticket with The Cafe Treat

Morning Desert Dune Bashing Safari

Yamaha Jet Ski Ride in Burj Al Arab, Dubai Marina, Atlantis Palm

Dubai Butterfly Garden

Atlantis Water Park in Dubai

Sundowner Desert Safari Experience in Dubai with BBQ Dinner

Morning Desert Safari With 20-Minutes Camel Ride

Dubai City Tour + Desert Safari (Standard) with Transfer

90-minute Sightseeing Speedboat Tour

Dune Dinner Safari at Bassata Camp from Ras Al Khaimah

An Arabian experience with plenty of activities in a beautiful desert setting

Dubai Quad Biking with Desert Safari - Thrilling ATV Ride Dubai

Aya Universe Dubai

Dubai Morning Desert Safari: Sandboarding & Camel Trekking

Evening Desert Safari with Barbecue Dinner

A desert adventure packed with thrilling activities, live entertainment and Arabic delights

Exclusive Desert Safari Dubai

Dubai Morning Safari Adventure

Sea World Abu Dhabi Ticket

Dubai Water Fountain Show And Lake Ride Near Burj Khalifa With Transfer

Private Desert Excursion with camel ride Sandboard & BBQ Dinner

Ferrari World General Admission Entry and Rides Tickets

Burj Khalifa, Boat Ride & Dinner Eight-hour Tour

A guided tour to experience some of Dubai's top attractions

Fly Fish Dubai Tour With Private Transfer From Dubai

Jet Ski Burj Al Arab Experience

A thrilling ride on a jet ski around La Mer beach

The Best Jet Ski in Dubai - 2 Hours Burj Al Arab - Dubai Marina - Atlantis Tour

Fishing sea escape 4h

10-minute Parasailing Experience

Get strapped into a parasail, fly overhead and take in spectacular views of Dubai

Dubai Desert Experience

A seven-hour tour to go sandboarding and camel riding in the Dubai desert

Play DXB Dubai Mall Tickets (VR Park)

Desert Safari with Baab AL Shams Dinner

Evening Camel Caravan, Bedouin Dinner with Al Marmoom Oasis

1 Hour Burj Khalifa Ticket with Cafe Treat

Dubai Ice Rink Entry Pass

Admission to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

Morning Adventure from Dubai: Desert Dune Bashing, Sand Boarding, Camel Ride

Morning Desert Safari With Quad Biking Sandboarding and Camel Rid

Dubai High Red Dunes Extreme Desert Safari Adventure with BBQ Dinner

Desert Safari Experience with Barbecue Dinner

An excursion involving dune bashing, a camel ride and traditional dance performances

Morning Dune Bashing With Sand Boarding And Camel Ride in Red Dunes Desert

Green Planet Dubai Day Ticket With Pickup and Drop off

Exclusive:Flyboard in Dubai with Photos and Videos

Camel Trekking in Abu Dhabi- Abu Dhabi Camel Ride

I Fly Dubai - Indoor Skydiving Experience Tickets

Overnight Safari Abu Dhabi ,Belly Dance ,Camel Ride ,Henna Painting ,BBQ Dinner

Scuba Dive Experience

Four-hour Morning Desert Safari with Camel Ride

The perfect mix of desert activities including dune bashing, sandboarding and a camel ride

2-Hour Dubai Sea Escape, Swim, Tan & Sightseeing

City Jet Ski Tour

Highlights of Dubai, with views of the Burj Al Arab and the Burj Khalifa

Parasailing in Dubai - Burj Al Arab View

Premium Desert Safari Evening with Romantic Dinner

Jet Ski or Speedboat Tour

A ticket to view the city's highlights while cruising along its waterways

Arabian Desert Safari Dubai Tour with Dune Bash and BBQ Dinner

Abu Dhabi Morning Desert Safari: 4x4 Dune Bashing, Camel Ride and Sandboarding

Dubai City Tour with Dubai Frame Private Basis

Morning Dubai Red Dunes Safari With Camel Ride & Sand boarding

Jet Ski in Dubai near Burj Al Arab

2-Hour Quad Biking Guided Tour in the Desert of Ras al Khaimah

60 minutes Jet Ski Ride in Dubai

Versace Sleep Treatment with Gold Cappuccino Experience

Sun Rise Desesrt Safari with Camel Ride by 4x4 Land Cruiser

4-Hour Morning Red sand Safari with Camel Ride & Sand Boarding

Private - Evening Desert Safari with Camel Ride, BBQ Dinner and Belly Dacne

Yas Water World Abu Dhabi Entry Pass

Entrance to Miracle and Butterfly Garden with Transfers

Dubai Frame Admission

Panoramic views of the city of Dubai from 492 feet above ground

Morning Dubai Desert Safari with Dune Bashing, Camel Riding Dubai

Ferrari World & Yas Water World Tour From Dubai

Jet Ski and Jet Car Thrilling Ride Near Burj Al Arab Dubai

30-minute Jet Ski Tour

A tour to drive along the coast and see famous sights

Classic Private Remote Camping

2 hours Jetski Explore Tour

Morning Desert Safari Dubai: Dune Bashing,Sand Boarding,Camel Ride

4x4 Desert Safari With Dinner and Private Pick up

Yas Marina Circuit Karting Experience

High-speed karting on the famous circuit's one-mile track

Premium Desert safari With Dune buggy camel ride BBQ dinner

Ski Dubai Admission Ticket

A ticket to experience skiing and other winter activities in Dubai

Entrance to Deep Dive Dubai with Pick up and Drop

Dubai Jet Ski Ride

A water adventure to discover Dubai's iconic attractions

Sunrise Desert Safari from Abu Dhabi

Dune Buggy Drive with Sandboarding & Camel Ride

Self-driven adventure in the dunes with characteristic desert activities

Dubai Burj Al Arab Ticket Inside with Guide

Morning Dubai Desert Safari with Sand boarding and Camel Ride

Emirati Authentic Cooking Classes at Al Khayma Heritage House

Off-Roading Experience in Mleiha

A drive through the dunes with stops for ancient archaeological sites and stargazing

Desert Culture Tour with Camel Ride and BBQ Dinner

A day of adventure in the desert featuring sandboarding, camel riding, live shows and more

Quad Bike Safari Experience with BBQ Dinner

A tour to experience the desert lifestyle, including a meal and many activities

Morning Desert Safari with Camel Riding

A morning of dune bashing and camel trekking in the Lahbab desert

The Bedouin Desert Safari Experience

1-Day Admission Pass to 2 Dubai Theme Parks

Hot Air Balloon with 60 Minutes Balloon Ride with Transfers

Private Red Sand Desert Safari with Camel Ride And Sand Boarding

Dubai La Perle by Dragone Show with Exclusive Transfers

At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY (Level 148 +125 + 124) Entry Ticket

Scuba Diving at Jumeirah Dubai with Private Transfer

Sun Rise Desert Safari & Sandboarding (Private Vehicle)

Self-guided Tour at a Wax Museum in Madame Tussauds Dubai

Visit to the Burj Khalifa with afternoon tea at Al Bayt

A visit to the Burj Khalifa to get a panoramic view of the city

Admission to Ski Dubai Snow Park

A full-day pass providing entry into an indoor winter ski park

Morning Desert Safari with Camel Ride and Sandboarding

Dhow Dinner Cruise on Dubai Creek

A cruise on Dubai Creek aboard a traditional Bedouin ship

One-Hour Private Jetski Experience in Burj Al Arab

Admission to Dubai's VR Park with Hotel Pickup

Four hours of unlimited virtual reality rides and experiences with hotel pickup

iFly Dubai Guided Indoor Skydiving Experience

Tickets to an indoor skydiving activity that replicates freefall conditions

Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi Admission Ticket

Quad Bike Safari in the Dubai Desert with BBQ Dinner

Full Day Ferrari World Ticket with Optional Transport From Dubai

Deluxe Desert Safari Dubai with Premium Camp Experience

Admission to Aventura Parks

Tickets to explore the activity center in Dubai

Experience Dubai Best Red Dune Safari Camel Ride Sandboarding BBQ

Morning Dune Bashing Tour with Camel Ride

A guided tour to explore the Arabian Desert in a 4x4 vehicle

Abu Dhabi Overnight Desert Safari

Thrilling Dune Buggy Self Drive Safari With Free Pick & Drop Off

Quad Bike Safari with Sandboarding, Camels Ride and BBQ Dinner

Premium Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner Service on the table

Jetovator in The Palm

Camel Ride, Quad Bike & Sandboarding Morning Tour

A 3.5-hour tour to experience Dubai’s sand dunes with a combination of activities

1-Hour Atlantis Jet Ski Adventure Dubai

Dubai Butterfly Garden with One-Way Transfer from Dubai

One-hour Standup Paddleboard Rental

An hour-long paddleboard rental and quick lesson on the Palm Jumeirah

Qasr Al Watan with Louvre Museum Combo Tickets

Private Tradional Boat for 1 Hour Sightseeing Tour

Play DXB Dubai VR Park Experience

Morning Desert Safari Dubai

Legoland Dubai Water Park Entry Tickets

Dubai Inside Burj Al Arab Tour Including Food and Transfer Option

One-hour Stand Up Paddling Session

A stand up paddleboarding experience in Palm Jumeirah

Private Sunrise Safari Tour in Abu Dhabi with Camel Ride

Ifly Dubai Indoor Skydiving With Transfer

Dubai Frame Admission Entry Tickets

Snow Classic Admission Ticket to Ski Dubai

A chance to ski, snowboard, meet the penguins, zip line or take a chairlift ride

Dubai Afternoon Jeep Dune Bashing with Camel Ride and Dinner

2 Hours Speed Boat Sightseeing of Dubai Marina - Dubai

Ferrari World Entrance Ticket

One of the world's biggest indoor theme parks with 20 attractions dedicated to racing

Morning Desert Safari

An exciting desert adventure with dune bashing, sandboarding and a camel ride

Dubai Desert Safari: Camel Ride, Sandboarding, BBQ & House Drinks

The Burj Khalifa At The Top Observation Deck Admission Ticket

Desert Safari with Barbecue Dinner at Bedouin Camp

A desert experience with camel rides, dance shows and campground dinner

Off-road Desert Safari with Buffet Dinner and Show

Desert adventure with dune bashing, ATV rentals and camel ride with dinner and belly dancing

Private Morning Desert Safari Dubai with Camel Riding

Self Driving Jeep Wrangler Experience in Desert Half-Day

Desert Safari 4X4 Pickup & Drop with BBQ Dinner & Live Shows

Dhow Cruise in Dibba Al Fujairah

A boat tour of the area with water activities and lunch

Sky Views Dubai Edge Walk

A thrilling experience offering you a bird's-eye view over Dubai from 720 ft

Private Sunrise & Dune Bashing in Abu Dhabi

Private Dune Bashing in Abu Dhabi - Morning Desert Safari

Dubai Camel Riding Sandboarding and Dune Bashing Experience

Jebel Jais Zip Line Experience

A thrilling zip-lining experience on one of the longest zip lines in the world

IMG Worlds Of Adventure

A ticket to explore the rides and attractions of the indoor entertainment destination

Dubai Red Dunes Desert Safari Adventure

Buggy Tour 30 Minutes Ride with Dubai Evening Safari

Dubai Speedboat Tour: JBR Skyline, Atlantis, Burj AlArab Optional

Dubai Parasailing with Pickup Included

Sun Downer Desert Safari With Camel Trekking, BBQ and Buffet Dinner

Abu Dhabi Flyboard

Wild Wadi Waterpark Dubai Ticket With Private Transfer

Combo:Private Desert Safari + dinner & ATV Self-drive/Quad Bike

Dubai Desert Safari and Buffet Dinner with PRIVATE Transfer

Street Food Evening Tour

An evening tour through Dubai to try a variety of delicious street food

Full Day Abu Dhabi City & Louvre Museum Tour

Desert Safari Dubai

Dubai Butterfly Garden Tickets with Private Transfers

Dubai: Jet Ski Ride Burj Al Arab, Marina Beach or Mamzar

Ferrari World Entrance ticket with Rides

Dubai: Self-Drive Dune Buggy and Desert Safari Trip

Morning Desert Safari With 1 Hour Camel Trekking & Sandboarding

Dubai Desert Safari: An Arabian Desert Experience

Sunrise View Safari

Indoor Archery Dubai Adventure

Private Jet Ski Experience in United Arab Emirates

Red Dunes Desert Safari with Quad Biking

A chance to experience outdoor activities and spend a traditional evening in the desert

One-hour Jet Ski Tour to Mina Seyahi

A glimpse of Jumeirah Beach and other attractions during a jet ski ride

Dubai Wild Wadi Water Park With Private Transfers for 1 to 6 people

Red Dune Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner, Live Entertainment Show at Bedouin Camp

30-minute Flyboarding Experience in Dubai

A guided lesson in flyboarding followed by a 30-minute flight

Guided Abu Dhabi Tour and Desert Safari Experience

A sightseeing tour of Abu Dhabi followed by an adventurous excursion to the desert

Private Jet Ski at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

Wild Wadi Waterpark with One-Way Transfer

Dubai Frame Entry Tickets

Jet Ski at Al Mamzar Beach Dubai

Red Dune Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner, Sand Boarding Dance Shows

Morning Desert Safari with Dune Bashing, Camel Ride, Sand Boarding

30-Minute Water Jetpack Experience in Dubai

Abu Dhabi City Tour

Dubai Wild Wadi Water Park

1 Hour Private JetSki in Dubai

Combo:Deluxe Desert Safari with dinner + ATV self-drive/Quad Bike

Morning Desert Safari with Quad Bike, Camel Ride & Sandboarding

Dubai Morning Safari

Self-drive Quad Bike with Sand Boarding and Camel Ride in Dubai

Museum of Illusions with Sharing Transfers

One-hour Jet Ski Tour

A unique adventure experience with a professional instructor

Dubai Red Dunes Safari with Live Show and BBQ Dinner

Ski Dubai Slope Pass

A ski pass to Ski Dubai with ski or snowboard equipment included

Dubai Miracle Garden and Butterfly Garden with Private Transfers

Jet Ski Self Ride in Dubai With Private Transfers

Dune Bashing and Buggy Self Drive from Dubai

Flyboarding in Dubai - 30 Minutes Session

Dubai's Favourite Food & Historic walking Tour

An evening with culture, adventure and food on a desert safari

Dubai Desert Safari: Camel Ride, Sandboarding, BBQ & Spirits

Dubai La Perle By Dragone Entry Ticket

Flyboard Dubai - Extreme Level water sport

30 Mins Jet Car and 30 mins Jet Ski Ride with Private Transfer

Dubai Desert Safari with Dune Bashing , Dinner Buffet & Entertainments

Dubai Flyboard Experience

A ride on a flyboard in Dubai

IMG World and Dubai Frame Combo Tickets

Abu Dhabi Bedouin Desert Camp - Desert Camping in Abu Dhabi

Dubai Flyboard Adventure

A chance to try out the popular extreme watersport of flyboarding

MOTIONGATE™ Entrance Ticket with Private Transfers from Dubai

Fly Board Experience for 30 min in La Mer

Dubai Frame and AYA Universe Combo Tickets

Versace Spa Treatment

Dune Buggy Ride in High Red Dunes with Desert Safari Activities

Aston Martin GT4 Driving Experience

A chance to experience the power of a top racing car on a circuit course

Evening Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner, Belly Dance and Much More

Aqua Fun Dubai Day pass

Red Dunes Desert Safari Evening with Quad Bike riding, BBQ-dinner, Camel Ride

Admission to Two Burj Khalifa Floors

Tickets to the Dubai attraction’s rooftop, with lunch or dinner at the Burj Club included

Dubai Dinner Desert Experience with 01 Hour quad bike and camel ride

Flyboard Experience

Flyboard lesson with views of the Burj Al Arab hotel

Dune Buggy Adventure and Bedouin-style Camel Trek

An adrenaline-fueled journey across Dubai's copper-colored dunes

Dubai Morning Combo Safari

Jet-ski | Dubai Marina Tour - 2H

From Dubai Yas Water World Tour with Pick up and drop off

Arabian Desert Safari Experience With Bab Al Shams Dinner at Al Hadheerah

Red Dunes Desert Safari with 4x4 Pick up & Drop, Camel ride, BBQ and Live shows

Overnight Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner & Breakfast Abu Dhabi

Passenger Racing Tour at the Yas Marina Circuit

An adrenaline-fueled assisted racing experience at a famous Formula 1 circuit

Dubai Parasailing Tour With Private Transfers

Jet Ski Adventure in Dubai

Evening Desert Safari with Quad Bike, Dune Bashing, Entertainments, BBQ Dinner

Camel Riding In Dubai Desert

Burj Khalifa At The Top Ticket & Burj Al Arab Guided Tour - Explore The Wonders

Half-Day Red Dunes by Quad Bike with Camel Ride and Sandboard

Dubai Marina Luxury Cruise with Lunch or Dinner

A VIP cruise in the afternoon or evening with a barbecue buffet

Morning Red Dune Desert Safari in Dubai with Camel Ride and Sand Boarding

Dubai Marina Yacht Dinner Cruise

A sightseeing cruise around the Dubai Marina with dinner included

Private Red Dunes with Camel Ride, Sandboarding, Falcon & Arabic Coffee Package

AYA Universe Dubai Ticket with Transfer option

3D World Selfie Museum Ticket

A ticket to explore the art and craft museum featuring various artworks and optical illusions

La Mer Water Bike Rental

A full-day rental of a Hobie water step bike

Desert Safari and Quad Bike Experience in Dubai with Dinner

Dubai Desert Safari Red Dune: BBQ, Camel Ride & Sandboarding

1-Hour Kayaking Experience in Dubai

FLYBOARD 30mn session @ POPEYE JETSKI

Evening Desert Safari Dubai:Bash Sand Dunes-BBQ

Private Red Dunes Desert Safari Dubai

Royal Thai Massage 60 minutes

Caravan Safari

Boat Try Scuba Diving Tour in Dubai

Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab Tour

A visit to the icons of Dubai with private transfer

Dubai Museum of Illusions with Private Transfers

Dubai Salsa Lovers Dance Experience

BollyWood Parks Family Package With Private Transfer for 1 to 5 people

See more attractions and activities in Dubai

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Dubai Best Travel Books & Travel Guides

• Post author: Avoid Crowds
• Post published: April 17, 2021
• Post category: Best time to visit
• Post comments: 0 Comments

Updated: January 24, 2024

Dubai , a city where futuristic skyscrapers meet a deep-rooted cultural legacy, stands as a fascinating destination for globetrotters. Its blend of cutting-edge architecture and traditional charm presents unique exploratory opportunities, but can also pose navigational challenges amidst its lively streets and myriad attractions. To fully embrace the splendor of Dubai, strategic planning is key. Our curated collection of travel guides and books offers invaluable assistance in crafting your Dubai adventure.

From exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa to uncovering the mystique of the historic souks, our selection caters to all interests. Whether you seek a deep dive into the architectural marvels, a journey through the rich tapestry of Dubai’s history, or local insights into the best dining and shopping spots, our recommendations are comprehensive and meticulously vetted. Our expert team has ensured that each guide provides practical advice and hidden gems, helping you to navigate Dubai’s dynamic landscape with confidence and ease.

• All books have been handpicked by us!
• Books with bad reviews are left out.
• This post includes affiliate marketing links on which we can earn a commission.

Seven Smart Travel Tips To Make your Dubai Trip Better

⏰ Burj Khalifa Timed Entry : Don’t let the fear of long lines and missed opportunities ruin your chance to visit the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world! Get your timed entry tickets in advance through GetYourGuide to secure your spot and avoid the hassle of waiting in line. This way, you can make the most of your time and experience the awe-inspiring views of Dubai without the fear of missing out.

🎫 Plan Your Activities in Advance : Book popular attractions like the Burj Khalifa and desert safaris ahead of time to avoid long lines. Use trusted platforms like Viator and GetYourGuide for convenient online bookings.

🏨 Choose Accommodation Wisely : Select accommodations that suit your preferences and budget. Use platforms like Booking.com to find a variety of options, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly stays.

🚗 Escape the Crowds : Explore unique experiences away from the tourist crowds by referring to crowd predictions on Avoid Crowds . Discover hidden gems and enjoy a more relaxed Dubai adventure.

🌊 Water Park Choices : If you’re considering a water park visit, read about the pros and cons of Wild Wadi and Atlantis Water Park on Avoid Crowds . Make an informed choice for a fun day out.

🗼 Burj Khalifa Tickets : Understand the options for visiting the Burj Khalifa by checking the insights on Avoid Crowds . Learn about timed entry versus skip-the-line tickets to make the most of your visit to this iconic landmark.

• 🏜️ Unforgettable Desert Safari : Make your Dubai visit truly memorable by booking a private 6-hour desert safari with BBQ dinner through GetYourGuide . Experience the breathtaking desert landscapes, thrilling activities, and a delicious barbecue feast under the starry skies. Don’t miss out on this exhilarating adventure!

Remember to refer to “The Rough Guide to Dubai” for comprehensive information and tips on exploring the city. Enjoy your Dubai adventure! 🌟

Lonely Planet Pocket Dubai: Your Compact Guide to Discovering Dubai

Rated 4.6 out of 5 stars, “Lonely Planet Pocket Dubai 6” is a succinct and comprehensive guide, perfect for those seeking to explore the heart of Dubai. This pocket-sized book is your essential companion, offering the best experiences and insights into the city’s diverse neighborhoods.

Key Highlights:

• 🗺️ Neighborhood-by-Neighborhood Exploration : Dive deep into the distinct areas of Dubai, each with its unique charm and attractions.
• 🌇 Up-to-Date and Reliable : The guide includes the latest information, ensuring you have access to the best and currently available experiences.
• 📸 Vibrant Full-Color Maps and Photography : Navigate easily and visualize your journey with detailed maps and stunning travel photography.
• 🕵️ Insider Tips and Tricks : Get valuable insights to save time and money, avoid crowds, and discover Dubai like a local.
• 💎 Hidden Gems and Lesser-Known Spots : Go beyond the typical tourist destinations to uncover Dubai’s overlooked and intriguing places.
• 📚 Honest and Unbiased Reviews : Find the best options for dining, sightseeing, shopping, and entertainment, regardless of your budget.
• 📘 Easy-to-Use Format : Thoughtfully organized by neighborhood, the guide helps you plan your itinerary and spend your time effectively.
• 🌍 Comprehensive Coverage : From the historic Al Fahidi District to the iconic Burj Khalifa, Deira, Bur Dubai, Jumeirah, and more, the guide has you covered.
• 📱 Digital Compatibility : For those preferring electronic formats, this guide is also available in digital versions for convenience and accessibility.

“Lonely Planet Pocket Dubai 6” is the ideal guide for travelers looking for a practical, efficient way to experience Dubai’s rich culture, stunning architecture, and bustling marketplaces. Whether on a brief visit or a longer stay, this guide ensures you make the most of your time in this dynamic city.

Lonely Planet Dubai & Abu Dhabi: The Comprehensive Guide for Your Journey

Rated 4.1 out of 5 stars and a #1 bestseller in Persian Gulf Travel Guides, “Lonely Planet Dubai & Abu Dhabi 10” is the definitive travel guide for exploring these dynamic cities. The latest edition, published on November 29, 2022, offers up-to-date, in-depth coverage of Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s key attractions, cultural experiences, and hidden gems.

• 🆕 What’s New : All information rechecked for post-2020 relevancy, ensuring current and accurate guidance.
• 🗺️ Personalized Itineraries : Customizable plans to suit diverse interests and needs.
• 🍴 Local Cuisine : Insider tips on must-try dishes and drinks in Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
• 🏖️ Beach Guide : Expert advice on the best beaches for relaxation or activities, including safety information.
• 🎨 Vibrant Visuals : Full-color maps and images throughout the guide.
• 🕵️ Insider Tips : Save time and money and navigate like a local, avoiding crowds and trouble spots.
• 📚 Honest Reviews : Balanced advice for all budgets across eating, sleeping, sightseeing, and shopping.
• 🌍 Cultural Insights : Rich background information on the region’s history, people, music, landscapes, wildlife, and politics.
• 📱 eBook Features : Downloadable PDF, offline maps, note-adding function, bookmarks, and inbuilt dictionary for a seamless travel experience.

Covering everything from traditional souks in Deira to the futuristic skyline of Downtown Dubai, and the cultural richness of Abu Dhabi, this guide is perfect for travelers seeking a comprehensive understanding of these two fascinating cities.

Whether you’re planning a brief visit or an extended exploration, “Lonely Planet Dubai & Abu Dhabi 10” is your essential travel companion, packed with practical tips and insightful recommendations for a memorable journey.

Pocket Rough Guide Dubai: The Essential Companion for Your Dubai Adventure

The “Pocket Rough Guide Dubai,” rated 4.4 out of 5 stars, is a succinct and informative guide, ideal for travelers looking to explore the vibrant city of Dubai. This guide, packed with practical advice and local insights, is perfect for those on short trips, offering a comprehensive overview of Dubai’s must-visit sights, dining, shopping, and entertainment.

Key Features:

• 🌇 Compact and Comprehensive : Tailored for travelers on the go, offering key information in a handy format.
• 🌟 Honest and Independent Reviews : Expert recommendations with Rough Guides’ signature blend of humor and honesty.
• 🔍 Area-by-Area Overviews : Detailed insights into each area, including Bur Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, and Jumeirah.
• 🗺️ Handy Pull-Out Map : Makes navigating Dubai’s key attractions and neighborhoods easy.
• 📅 Time-Saving Itineraries : Specially planned routes to enhance your Dubai experience.
• 🚗 Day-Trip Suggestions : Ideas for trips to Al Ain or Abu Dhabi, complete with travel tips.
• 📘 Travel Tips and Info : Essential pre-departure information, including transport, health, festivals, and a language section.
• 💻 Free eBook : Digital access to the guide for convenient on-the-go travel planning.
• 📸 Attractive Design : Engaging layout with inspirational color photography and color-coded maps.

Whether exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa or the traditional souks, this guide equips you with everything you need for an unforgettable Dubai adventure.

The Rough Guide to Dubai

Discover Dubai like a local with “The Rough Guide to Dubai,” a comprehensive and entertaining travel guide that provides you with honest and independent recommendations. Whether you’re planning to explore the city’s bustling streets, experience sand-skiing, relax on beautiful beaches, or visit intriguing museums, this guide has you covered.

🗺️ Detailed Regional Coverage : Get in-depth practical information for all types of trips, from off-the-beaten-track adventures to relaxed vacations in tourist hotspots. Explore regions like Bur Dubai, Deira, Sheikh Zayed Road, Jumeirah, and more.

📝 Honest Independent Reviews : Written with Rough Guides’ trademark blend of humor, honesty, and expertise, the guide offers recommendations you can trust, ensuring you make the most of your Dubai trip.

🗺️ Meticulous Mapping : The guide is filled with full-color maps, making it easy to navigate Dubai without needing an internet connection.

📸 Fabulous Full-Color Photography : Enjoy inspirational color photography that showcases Dubai’s dazzling souks, the colorful Dubai Aquarium, and more.

🌟 Must-See Recommendations : Discover Rough Guides’ top picks for sights and experiences in Dubai, including Al Ain Oasis, the Burj al Arab, and Deira.

🗺️ Itineraries : Find carefully planned routes to help you organize your trip and get inspired for your on-the-road experiences.

📚 Background Information : Explore a comprehensive Contexts chapter that provides insights into Dubai’s history, religion, ethnic groups, environment, wildlife, and more.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, “The Rough Guide to Dubai” will ensure you have the knowledge and recommendations needed to make the most of your Dubai adventure. Rough Guides has been inspiring travelers for over 35 years, and this guide continues the tradition of providing practical travel tips, quality writing, and trustworthy advice.

Fodor's Dubai 25 Best: The Compact City Guide

“Fodor’s Dubai 25 Best,” rated 4.6 out of 5 stars, is a concise and comprehensive guidebook perfect for travelers seeking to explore Dubai’s highlights. This compact guide, published on November 19, 2019, is ideal for easy packing and includes a sturdy, detailed street map for navigation.

• 🌆 Top 25 Sights : Focuses on Dubai’s must-see attractions, organized by neighborhood for easy planning.
• 📸 Vibrant Photos and Maps : Full-color images and full-size maps, including a weather-resistant pullout city map.
• 🗺️ Self-Guided City Tours : Suggestions for exploring the best of Dubai on your own.
• 🛍️ Shopping, Dining, and More : Recommendations for every budget, from local writers.
• 📚 Practical Tips and Phrases : Essential advice to help you travel like a local.
• 📍 Covers : Key attractions including Al Fahidi Historic District, Dubai Creek, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and more.

Ideal for those who want to experience the essence of Dubai through a well-curated and practical guide.

City of Gold: Dubai and the Dream of Capitalism

“City of Gold,” rated 4.5 out of 5 stars, offers an insightful look into Dubai’s meteoric rise from a dusty village to a global metropolis. Authored by award-winning journalist Jim Krane, this book explores the city’s unique journey, the ruling family’s influence, and the impact of global economic shifts.

Highlights:

• 🌆 Dubai’s Transformation : Chronicles Dubai’s rapid development and its emergence as a symbol of modern capitalism.
• 📚 In-Depth Analysis : Examines the city’s history, economic boom, and the challenges of rapid growth.
• 🌍 Global Context : Considers Dubai’s place in the Middle East and the world, especially during economic downturns.
• 🏙️ Urban Portrait : Presents a nuanced view of Dubai, from its architectural wonders to its social and environmental issues.
• 🎯 Critical Perspective : Krane offers a critical assessment of Dubai’s ambitions and the realities of its growth.

“City of Gold” is an essential read for anyone interested in understanding the complexities and contradictions of one of the world’s most talked-about cities.

Dubai for Kids Travel Book – Activity Book, Pocket Guide & Travel Journal

“Dubai for Kids Travel Book” is the perfect companion for families planning a trip to Dubai. Designed to engage children, this activity book and travel journal allows young travelers to have fun while exploring the beautiful city of Dubai.

• 🧒 Kid-Friendly : Tailored for children, this book combines travel information with entertaining activities and games.
• 🌆 Discover Dubai : Children can learn about Dubai’s famous landmarks, traditions, and cuisine in an interactive way.
• 📝 Travel Diary : A space for kids to write travel memories and create a lasting souvenir of their Dubai adventure.
• 🎨 Activities and Coloring : Keeps kids engaged with coloring pages, word searches, mazes, and more.
• 🌍 Educational : Teaches children a bit of Arabic and introduces them to important aspects of Dubai’s culture.

“Dubai for Kids Travel Book” is a delightful way for families to bond and make the most of their Dubai trip while keeping children entertained and informed. It’s a must-have for any family vacation to this exciting city!

UAE - Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture

“UAE – Culture Smart!” is an essential guide for travelers looking to explore the rich culture and customs of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Authored by John Walsh and Culture Smart!, this book provides valuable insights into the UAE’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.

• 🌆 Cultural Exploration : Discover the cultural nuances, customs, and traditions that make the UAE a fascinating destination.
• 🏙️ Historical Background : Gain an understanding of the UAE’s evolution from a desert land to a thriving federation.
• 💼 Economic Transformation : Learn about the impact of oil discovery on the country’s economy and society.
• 🌟 Contrasts and Complexities : Explore the coexistence of modernity and conservative values in the UAE.
• 🌍 Geopolitical Significance : Understand the UAE’s role in the Middle East and its contributions to global affairs.
• 👥 Social Dynamics : Explore the changing role of women in UAE society while respecting traditional values.

Whether you’re a traveler seeking to navigate the cultural landscape of the UAE or simply curious about this dynamic nation, “UAE – Culture Smart!” is your essential companion to understanding the customs and culture of this captivating country.

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Dubai Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Dubai. We've got 233 adventures going to Dubai, starting from just one day in length, and the longest tour is 147 days. The most popular month to go is October, which has the largest number of tour departures.

233 Dubai tour packages with 229 reviews

Dubai & Abu Dhabi

The UAE Complete - Escorted Tour in 4* Hotels – Full Board Plan

I wish I could give more stars greater than 5. It was a wonderful, exhilarating, amazing experience. It exceeded up and beyond my expectations. Everything was great, the accommodation, food, transportation, varied activities, the knowledgeable tour guide(Ayaz Ahmed), PCR, pick up to and from the airport, and more. I have recommended this tour to my friends who saw our pictures on Facebook. Keep up the good work. Thank you very much. Myrna Amadora Feb. 20-26, 2022

• Christmas & New Year

Dubai Honeymoon Escapes - 5 Nights 6 Days

It is a great package to discover Dubai. The tour is well planed and organized, and the guid reply quickly to the questions.

The UAE Essentials - Escorted Tour in 4 Stars Hotels – Full Board Plan

One of the precious travel memory in the travel life. Burj-Khalifa is really a wonder to the world. Desert safari could be more energetic. I also took a picture with the falcon on my shoulder. My brother recommended this package and guys I loved it.Good service, delicious food and good value of money.

Experience UAE - Escorted Tour in 4 or 5* Hotels

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing

Dazzling Dubai

Indus Travel amazed me. I have traveled before with other tour companies and I have to say that the organization of Indus Travel was really neat. I received ahead of the trip the schedule of what to expect with times a locations. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and nice. The hotel was picked with care and we got a great hotel that went beyond our expectations. The airline selected was one of the best ones and the price of the trips were convenient.

Dubai Premium Holidays 5 Nights 6 Days

Overall I was very happy with our experience. TR stayed in communication regularly and provided details every step of the way. Only one small hiccup the last morning. Our driver to the airport was lost and arrived 45 minutes late.we took a cab to the airport. TR reimbursed us. I don't feel it was TR fault. We will definitely us TR again

3 Days Private 4*Couples Tour Full Day Old & New Dubai + Private Desert Safari+ Full Day Abu Dhabi Tour

DUBAI – Skyscrapers Desert Abu Dhabi with Oman Highlights

Stars of Dubai - 6 days

All of the tour guides were excellent and very knowledgeable. My only issues were that we paid for a 5 star hotel and we got a 4 star hotel. I let a representative know about this hotel discrepancy and nothing was done or corrected. It was never addressed. Also, we were not informed that we would not be seeing certain listed sites until I asked why we didn't see them. I was then told they were closed due to Covid. Those sites are still listed in the online brochure and thus included in the price.

Dubai Economy Holiday Package 05 Nights 06 Days

Everyone was great and polite.

Dubai and Burj Khalifa - 5 days

This tour was well-run, as described, friendly and efficient. I was lucky in that all the various other people I met on these excursions were really nice, but equally so were the various guides. I happily recommend this company.

Dubai Economy Holidays Package - 06 Nights 07 Days

Tailor-Made Private Dubai with Desert Resort & Abu Dhabi, Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Dubai Luxury Holidays Package 6 Night 7 Days

Despite the very hot weather, we enjoyed the tour. If I could make some input, the First day which was Dubai City Tour, no lunch time set aside. The trip to Abu Dhabi, the lunch period is less than an hour and took us to buffet restaurants that is not practical I think for that amount of period considering the prize we have to pay. The dinner cruise tour, they made us wait for 3 hours almost then ended up not picking us at all. They compensate through the VIP section when they rescheduled it in the Desdert Safari Other than that we enjoyed our trip. The highlight is the Burj Kkalifa and Dessert Safari. Thanks Madelene

What people love about Dubai Tours

Tour bus audio system wasn't working properly so couldn't hear what tour guide was talking about.

The guides and drivers were all excellent, 5-star rating. The only improvement would be to: - educate about basic pricing for most purchased items (Gold was explained, but e.g. a Thawb outfit price should be closer to 100 Dirham and not over 200 Dirham - give some hints what good prices for customers are). - hence the routing would make more sense in the other direction (for shopping less expensive first instead of most expensive). But I will not deduct any stars over that.

Tours starting from Dubai

• for 7 Days (69)
• for 10 Days (21)
• for 2 Weeks (20)
• for 3 Days (7)
• for 3 Weeks (5)
• to Asia (109)
• to United Arab Emirates (98)

International Versions

• Deutsch: Dubai Rundreisen
• Français: Circuits et voyages au Dubaï
• Español: Circuitos y viajes por Dubai
• Nederlands: Dubai Rondreizen

Dubai Tour Packages

Holiday planning doesn't have to be stressful. To save you the hassle, we have curated a selection of Dubai holiday packages. Scroll below and choose a package that best suits your travel style.

Dubai is one of the seven emirates that form the U.A.E. With its gorgeous skyscrapers, vast stretches of desert and almost palpable energy, a Dubai package packs in quite a punch for travellers.

We have all heard stories of luxury and extravagance that Dubai is well known for, we have seen the glittering Burj Khalifa in pictures and have always wanted a slice of this man-made beauty. Our Dubai tour packages promise you all this and more.

Well connected with the rest of the world, Dubai has become a sought-after holiday destination with incredible experiences on offer. To experience its beauty, you can choose one of our customised Dubai packages. 

Situated along the coastline in the Arabian Gulf, the city has become home for people from across the world.

Some shift continents to become a part of this shining reality with lucrative job opportunities and an enviable standard of living and others experience the charm of Dubai with customised Dubai tour packages.

When you visit Dubai for a vacation, you’ll be taken in by the city’s grandeur, culture and beauty. Our Dubai tour packages include a trip to the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest man-made building and also takes you through the city’s other enthralling sites including Dubai fountain, Jumeirah Beach, Atlantis and Palm.

Among other things, our Dubai tour packages also includes a thrilling safari in the desert, skydiving, and camping amidst sand dunes.  If you’d like to include sky-diving in your Dubai tour packages, it can cost you an additional Rs.20,000 to Rs.35,000.

While a tandem sky-dive works best for newbies since you’ll be flying with an instructor, Dubai is also known for its professional sky-diving school which allows you to receive a license.

A  desert safari is a great option if you have booked Dubai tour packages as a couple or with a large group of friends. 

Typically all Dubai tour packages include a cultural extravaganza complete with belly-dancers and a feast of the local cuisine.

So if you have the time and budget, we recommend that you must go for an all inclusive Dubai package. It’s a great way to experience Dubai’s warm hospitality as well as spend time with locals.

If you are the kind of traveller who prefers offbeat experiences, Dubai will not disappoint you. Dubai tour packages suit the choices of all travellers and depending on how you’d like to spend your vacation, your Dubai package can easily be customised.

Dubai has the largest population among the seven emirates and the city has grown tremendously over the last decades owing to its increasing list of exciting experiences as well as traveller-focussed Dubai tour packages.

What started as acres of barren land stands today as one of the most beautiful and luxurious destinations for travellers.

Dubai Highlights

The city of Dubai is full of exciting places to explore and things to do. Dubai tour packages are customised for art lovers, shopping enthusiasts and adventure buffs who are taken in by the varied experiences this city offers. In fact, catering to all kinds of travellers, Dubai holiday packages range from budget to luxurious. An expert travel tip from us would be to choose a Dubai package which gives you a tour of the city as well as  places to visit in Dubai near the city.

For art lovers and history buffs, Bastakia Quarter also known as the Al-Fahidi neighbourhood is a great place to start and you must include it in your Dubai package. Built in the 19th century, the quarter was the erstwhile home of wealthy Persian merchants who traded in pearls and textiles. Due to unlimited access to Dubai Creek and low tax liabilities, the area thrived during its time. Taking you through cobbled streets, you will find well-preserved coral and limestone buildings which were once homes and offices for the residents and today are part of all Dubai packages. What keen observers will notice are the pointed wind towers which all houses here support. Functioning as an air-conditioner, the wind tower funnelled all the trapped cool air to the houses to bring relief from Dubai summer. Now, this is one experience you must include in your Dubai tour packages. If you are an art lover, you must also visit Majlis Gallery which preserves Arab ceramics and other knick-knacks from the time. Of course, owing to its growing popularity as a tourist spot in all Dubai tour packages, the area has a number of cafes which serve a variety of international cuisines.

The first on the bucket list for all travellers and part of all Dubai tour packages is the mighty Burj Khalifa. With 57 elevators and eight escalators, the Burj Khalifa stands as Dubai’s symbol of prosperity. For spectacular views of the city, you must head to the 148th floor or the Top and if you’d like to admire the grandeur of Dubai’s man-made marvels, you can sit by the fountain which is illuminated by 6,600 lights. Said to be the world’s second largest constructed fountain, it is one of the biggest attractions for visitors and a big part of all Dubai tour packages. In the evening, the water fountain lights up and surges as high as 150 meters in sync with classical melodies. The choreographed fountain churns out rhythms such as ‘Baba Yetu’ as well as ‘Time to Say Goodbye’. Designed by WET, you can take a closer look at the fountain by booking a traditional boat known as ‘abra’. If you don’t want to miss the cruise, make sure you choose Dubai tour packages which have it included.

With a stunning view of the Persian Gulf, the beautiful Jumeirah Beach should be your next destination. All Dubai tour packages definitely include a trip to the beach so you can relax amidst surreal beauty. A great place to unwind with family and friends, you must stay here for the captivating sunset and the many barbeque joints lining the beach. Another popular beach which is part of Dubai holiday packages is the stunning Umm Suqeim or Sunset beach. Head here for awe-inspiring views of the Burj Al Arab with vibrant skies as a backdrop. Bustling with energy, the beach is close to Surf House and a great option for those interested in surfing.

For water sport enthusiasts, the next beach should be the Kite Beach. With conducive conditions for kitesurfing, it is a part of Dubai tour packages and makes for a great experience. Head here for paddle-boating, kayaking and a ‘bumpy’ experience at the outdoor Dubai Trampoline Park.

To fully enjoy your Dubai holiday, you must also include the Dubai mall in your Dubai tour packages. The venue for the largest shopping festival, the mall is one of the biggest malls in UAE. What’s great is that besides shopping, you can explore the spectacular Underwater Zoo and Dubai Aquarium here, also a part of Dubai tour packages . With over 300 species of marine life, the aquarium is a truly memorable experience. Said to be the largest suspended aquarium in the world, it is home to the largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks in the world. For the more adventurous, you can include snorkelling and a shark dive in your Dubai tour package.

Away from soothing blue waters, visitors can enjoy a thrilling sand dune safari! A popular activity and part of almost all Dubai tour packages, the Desert Safari is no easy feat. Under the unforgiving heat of the sun, through sand storms, visitors are taken around the desert in a jeep. As you are bouncing and tumbling your way through small and big sand-dunes, you can’t help but enjoy the adrenaline rush the safari offers.

Dubai Travel Blogs

Have you ever wondered how some people know just the right  places to visit in dubai or find the most beautiful cafes in a city? It’s through other travellers! The best secrets are passed from traveller to traveller and we truly believe it is the best way to travel. Go through some of our Dubai travel blogs before you plan your Dubai trip and book your Dubai tour package.

“Take in the tantalizing smell of Kebabs smothered in spices, watch as the glass facade of the Marina give way to a night sky right out of an Arabian tale, complete with gently swaying Dhows at anchor.”

Rakhi Jerly

“Dubai cannot be described in one word. All the above adjectives describe this vibrant city. It's a city with a vision which has transformed itself from a fishing & trading village into a cosmopolitan city known for its architecture, technology & innovation.”

Butterfly Travel Treat

“You’ll be surprised at how much this city has to offer to the adrenaline junkies young and old, who come from around the globe to experience world class adventure sports in a desert.”

Most Recent Dubai Reviews

Before booking your dream Dubai holiday package , read honest reviews from travellers on Tripoto. Check out their experience and find inspiration to plan your next big holiday in this beautiful destination. Know about the best things to experience, exciting places to explore and the best food to try in Dubai. Also get familiarised with some unexplored destinations in this amazing city.

Dubai Weather And Best Time To Visit

Dubai is a hot city with the sun shining bright throughout the year. If you are planning to book your Dubai tour package, you will find that the best season to visit Dubai is from November to December. This is also when Dubai holiday packages are the most expensive.

If you don’t mind the heat and will be comfortable under the sun, you can also choose to go between December to February. January and February is the time when the popular Dubai Shopping Festival takes place and most Dubai holiday packages are customised so you can enjoy the festival to the fullest.

The weather in Dubai is not going to be cool so we suggest to carry light cottons, a bag full of colourful scarves and head out with your best sunscreen.

Dubai For Family and Friends

A popular destination to explore with family and friends, a trip to Dubai promises an action-packed vacation, especially with the wide range of Dubai tour packages . If you are travelling with your friends in a large group or are looking at a family vacation, there are a lot of things you can plan and include in your Dubai tour package which gives you the best of everything. From shopping in Dubai’s glittering malls to exploring the marvels in the city and venturing out for a skydiving trip or a desert safari – you’ll be spoilt for choice. For a memorable experience of Dubai’s local life, do remember to choose Dubai holiday packages so you can explore the places in the city as well as the delicious street food the city offers.

Local Cuisine In Dubai

Inspired by Lebanese and Arabic cuisines, the local cuisine in Dubai is a mix of different cultures. Owing to its foreign population and a huge number of tourists, the country has adapted itself to serve an array of international cuisines. In fact, all Dubai tour packages include a trip to the city’s famous local eating joints as well as some of the better-known restaurants in Dubai.  From Asian to Continental to Italian, all restaurants in Dubai serve a variety of dishes. For non-vegetarians, street food in Dubai is a memorable gastronomical journey with stuffed camel , al-harees, manousheh and chelo kebab .

If, on the other hand, you are a vegetarian, you can go in for a big safe platter of hummus and pita bread served with fresh vinaigrette salad and falafel. If you have booked Dubai tour packages, chances are that your Dubai package will include trips to vegetarian local restaurants depending on your preferences. For vegetarians and vegans, even though there are customised Dubai tour packages for restaurants, we suggest the flavoursome veg pizza and crispy burritos done to perfection at some of the local Dubai joints. There are quite a few good restaurants in Dubai and for a memorable experience, we recommend Tom & Serg for their easy, innovative recipes, Teatro for its unique menu and Pierchic for its mesmerising views.

Visa for Dubai

Dubai is undoubtedly the shopping capital of Asia and its majestic man-made marvels like Burj or the Palm Jumeirah are a treat to visit. For Indians travelling to Dubai, a visa for United Arab Emirates is required. Before you book your Dubai tour package, you need to understand a few basic requirements for your Dubai visa.

Visa is not issued by the UAE embassy on ordinary passports. A tourist visa for Indian nationals with an ordinary passport (non-diplomatic) can only be arranged by a sponsor in UAE. These tourist visas can also be obtained through your hotel booking in UAE, through the Emirates Airlines Office, the Air Arabia Office and the simplest option – through a travel agent in India. Before you book your Dubai tour package, make sure you refer to the UAE embassy website and contact a trusted travel agent or request your hotel to obtain a tourist visa for Dubai.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can visit the  popular tourist attractions of Dubai  such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, Jumeirah Beach, Atlantis and Palm with our Dubai holiday packages. You can also indulge in luxury and hedonism by going on a shopping spree at The Dubai Mall and live the time of your life at the various happening clubs of Dubai such as Cavalli and Boudoir with the Dubai holiday packages listed on Tripoto. Our Dubai tour packages include a panoramic tour of the magnificent skyscrapers, golden deserts and white-sand beaches of Dubai. Art and history lovers can also visit Bastakia Quarter with our Dubai packages.

Dubai is located near Tropic of Cancer and has a hot climate throughout the year. You can book Dubai tour packages for the months of  November and December when the temperature is comparatively pleasant. If you enjoy sunny days, you can book Dubai packages between December and February. The ever-shining sun in Dubai makes it the perfect destination for some beach fun. You can book our Dubai packages for visiting the various beaches of Dubai and indulging in water sports. January and February are also among the popular months to visit Dubai due to the famous Dubai Shopping Festival that takes place here. You can book Dubai holiday packages on Tripoto for a delightful holiday during the best months.

Dubai has a wide variety of accommodation options, ranging from luxury to budget hotels. Depending on your budget, you can opt for a luxurious stay at one of the opulent hotels of Dubai such as Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, FIVE Palm Jumeirah Hotel and Palazzo Versace Dubai at Jaddaf Waterfront. You can also book budget hotels with our Dubai holiday packages. Hotels such as Dubai Palm Hotel, Hotel Ibis World Trade Centre Dubai, Citymax Hotel Bur Dubai and Arabian Park Hotel are the  popular budget hotels in Dubai . Hotels listed under our Dubai tour packages also include 3-star hotels such as Howard Johnson Bur.

Dubai is the hub of exciting outdoor activities. You can book our Dubai packages and indulge in exciting activities such as sand dune safari, kitesurfing and tandem sky-diving. You can also select our Dubai packages for indulging in water sports such as surfing and jet skiing.

Our Dubai packages make sure that you can enjoy the authentic culture of Dubai, and that includes the local cuisine of Dubai. You can try out popular non-vegetarian dishes such as Manousheh, Iranian Sangak, Chelo Kebab and Al Harees. Vegetarians can also find a huge variety of dishes in Dubai. You can relish vegetarian dishes such as Tabbouleh, Kousa Mahshi, Shirin Polo and Baba Ganoush with our Dubai holiday packages.

The Dubai packages listed on Tripoto can range from budget packages to luxury packages. Depending on the amenities and inclusions, you can find Dubai holiday packages starting from ₹16,000.

Dubai is home to gorgeous beaches that offer a tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking sunset views. You can visit popular beaches such as Sunset Beach, The Beach by JBR, Kite Beach and La Mer with our Dubai packages.

The Dubai tour packages listed on Tripoto include a tour of popular tourist attractions such as Underwater Zoo and Dubai Aquarium as well as allow you to enjoy one of Dubai’s cultural shows. Many of our Dubai holiday packages also include airfare, internal transfers and a wide range of accommodation options.

The national currency of Dubai is UAE Dirham. 1 UAE Dirham is equivalent to INR 18.9. Many of our Dubai holiday packages offer assistance in currency exchange, making the process a hassle-free affair for travellers. It is suggested that during your trip to Dubai, you should carry small denominations for easy transactions.

Indians require a visa for travelling to the United Arab Emirates. Before booking Dubai holiday packages, you should pay attention to the following requirements for a Dubai Visa: Visa is not issued by the UAE embassy on ordinary passports A tourist visa for Indian nationals with an ordinary passport can only be arranged by a sponsor in UAE Before you book your Dubai holiday packages, make sure you refer to the UAE embassy website

Book your individual trip , stress-free with local travel experts

• roughguides.com
• Middle East
• United Arab Emirates
• Travel guide
• Local Experts
• Travel Advice
• Accommodation

Dubai is like nowhere else on the planet and is a fascinating place to visit. Often claimed to be the world’s fastest-growing city, over the past four decades it has metamorphosed from a small Gulf trading centre to become one of the world’s most glamorous, spectacular and futuristic urban destinations, fuelled by a heady cocktail of petrodollars, visionary commercial acumen and naked ambition. Visit Dubai for a week or just a short stopover, and you’ll be blown away by the clash of cultures, extreme luxury and world famous architecture. Find out what this unique city has to offer with the best travel guide to Dubai.

Things to see in Dubai

Where to stay in dubai, 7 best places in dubai, best time to travel to dubai, how to get to dubai, entry requirements, the inner suburbs, the arabian dhow, construction, festival city, ras al khor, tailor-made travel itineraries for united arab emirates, created by local experts.

4 days  / from 1138 USD

Dubai and Abu Dhabi: a Glimpse of the Future

As the fastest-growing city in the world, Dubai is always looking towards the future. Even for those who have visited before, this unique trip will reveal something new about this vast megacity.

10 days  / from 3087 USD

Magnificent Emirates

Experience the best of the UAE, from unexpected cultural discoveries to modern high-rises and mega malls. Be surprised by spectacular mountain scenery, vast, rolling dunes, desert oases and a sparkling Arabian Sea. Then simply tie it all in with laid-back beaches, fine dining and world-class hotels.

4 days  / from 990 USD

Dubai Family Stopover

Make a luxury stopover with all the family in gorgeous, glam Dubai for a spot of lazing on the beach and luxurious relaxation. Get the adrenaline racing in Wild Wadi Water Park and on an action-packed desert safari, boat rides along the creek and more.

Tailor-made trips for   United Arab Emirates

Dubai’s ability to dream (and then achieve) the impossible has ripped up expectations and rewritten the record books, as evidenced by stunning developments such as the soaring Burj Khalifa , the beautiful Burj al Arab and the vast Palm Jumeirah island – a testament to the ruling sheikhs’ determination to make the city one of the world’s essential travel destinations for the twenty-first century. Yellow boats will take you to see the Palm Jumeirah, the Burj al Arab and the Marina on a single trip.

Modern Dubai is frequently seen as a panegyric to consumerist luxury: a self-indulgent haven of magical hotels, superlative restaurants and extravagantly themed shopping malls. Perhaps not surprisingly, the city is often stereotyped as a vacuous consumerist fleshpot, appealing only to those with more cash than culture, although this one-eyed cliché does absolutely no justice to Dubai’s beguiling contrasts and rich cultural make-up. The city’s headline-grabbing mega-projects have also deflected attention from Dubai’s role in providing the Islamic world with a model of political stability and religious tolerance, showing what can be achieved by a peaceful and progressive regime in one of the planet’s most troubled regions.

For the visitor, there’s far more to Dubai than designer boutiques and five-star hotels – although of course if all you’re looking for is a luxurious dose of sun, sand and shopping , the city takes some beating. If you want to step beyond the tourist clichés, however, you’ll find that Dubai has much more to offer than you might think, ranging from the fascinating old city centre, with its higgledy-piggledy labyrinth of bustling souks interspersed with fine old traditional Arabian houses, to the memorably quirky postmodern architectural skylines of the southern parts of the city. There's a vast array of diversions for children, too. Dubai Ice Rink offers a range of open-to-all public sessions, the aquarium is wonderful and iFly Dubai allows you to don a flying suit and take to the air.

Dubai’s human geography is no less memorable, featuring a cosmopolitan assortment of Emiratis, Arabs, Iranians, Indians, Filipinos and Europeans – a fascinating patchwork of peoples and languages that gives the city its uniquely varied cultural appeal. The credit crunch may have pushed Dubai to the verge of bankruptcy but pronouncements of its imminent demise proved wildly premature, and the city remains one of the twenty-first century’s most fascinating and vibrant urban experiments in progress. Visit Dubai now to see history, literally, in the making.

Beyond Dubai, there's endless expanses of desert to explore. Go dune-bashing in an off-road vehicle, or try your hand at sand-skiing. You can even book onto a Desert Safari , with BBQ, falconry, a camel ride and sandboarding all included.

Dubai has a vast range of accommodation, much of it aimed squarely at big spenders. There's also a decent selection of mid-range places, although nothing for real budget travellers.

At the top end of the market, the city has some of the most stunning hotels on the planet, from the futuristic Burj al Arab to traditional Arabian-themed palaces such as Al Qasr and the One&Only Royal Mirage. When it comes to creature comforts, all of Dubai’s top hotels do outrageous luxury as standard, with sumptuous suites, indulgent spa treatments, spectacular bars and gorgeous private beaches. The size and style of the very best places makes them virtually tourist attractions in their own right – self-contained islands of indulgence in which it’s possible to spend day after day without ever feeling the need to leave.

Madinat Jumeirah

Astounding mock-Arabian city, home to a string of lavish hotels and leisure facilities – the quintessential Dubaian example of opulent kitsch on an epic scale.

Deira Souks

At the heart of old Dubai, the district of Deira comprises an atmospheric tangle of bazaars, ranging from the Gold Souk’s glittering shop windows to the aromatic alleyways of the Spice Souk.

Dhow Wharfage

Home to hundreds of superb Arabian dhows moored up along the Deira creekside – one of central Dubai’s most incongruous but magical sights.

Al Ain Oasis

An idyllic retreat from the heat and dust of contemporary Al Ain, with peaceful little pedestrianized lanes running through shady plantations of luxuriant date palms.

Jumeirah Mosque

Dubai’s most beautiful mosque – open to visitors during informative guided tours.

One of the city’s best-preserved heritage areas, with a fascinating little labyrinth of old houses topped by innumerable wind towers.

Ibn Battuta Mall

Kitsch and eye-poppingly extravagant, this mile-long mall takes its inspiration from the journeys of Moroccan traveller Ibn Battuta.

The best time to visit Dubai is in the cooler winter months from December through to February, when the city enjoys a pleasantly Mediterranean climate, with average daily temperatures in the mid-20s °C. Not surprisingly, room rates (and demand) are at their peak during these months, though skies in January and February can sometimes be rather overcast, and it can even be surprisingly wet at times. Temperatures rise significantly from March through to April and in October and November, when the thermometer regularly nudges up into the 30s, though the heat is still relatively bearable, and shouldn’t stop you getting out and about.

During the summer months from May to September the city boils – July and August are especially suffocating – with average temperatures in the high 30s to low 40s (and frequently higher). Although the heat is intense (even after dark), room rates at most of the top hotels plummet by as much as 75 percent, making this an excellent time to enjoy some authentic Dubaian luxury at relatively affordable prices, so long as you don’t mind spending most of your time hopping between air-conditioned hotels, shopping malls, restaurants and clubs.

Dubai is the Middle East’s largest airline hub, boasting excellent connections worldwide with the city’s own Emirates airline and other international carriers. These include numerous direct flights to various destinations in the UK, plus a number of places in the US and Australia.

Other options for getting to Dubai are contrastingly limited (for Western visitors, at least). It’s possible to travel overland into the UAE from several points in neighbouring Oman, but not Saudi Arabia. There are no regular ferry services to Dubai, although the city is a popular stop on many cruise itineraries. Click here to read more about how to get to Dubai.

Nationals of the UK, Ireland and most other Western European countries, the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand are issued a free thirty-day visa on arrival. Always check visa requirements direct with your UAE embassy or consulate as this information is subject to change. You’ll need a passport that will be valid for at least six months after the date of entry. Having an Israeli stamp in your passport shouldn’t be a problem. This visa can be extended for a further thirty days at a cost of 620dh by visiting the Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (DNRD), next to Bur Dubai Police Station, close to Al Jafiliya metro station (Sun–Wed 7.30am–7.30pm; T 04 313 9999 or T 800 5111, W dnrd.ae ). Click here for more Dubai travel essentials.

This page contains affiliate links; all recommendations are editorially independent.

Top image © Shutterstock

Fringing the southern and eastern edges of the city centre – and separating it from the more modern areas beyond – is a necklace of low-key suburbs: Garhoud, Oud Metha, Karama and Satwa. Southeast of Deira, workaday Garhoud is home to the Dubai Creek Golf Club , with its famously futuristic clubhouse, and the adjacent yacht club, where you’ll find a string of attractive waterside restaurants alongside the lovely Park Hyatt hotel. Directly over the Creek, Oud Metha is home to the quirky Wafi complex and the lavish Khan Murjan Souk , while west of here the enjoyably downmarket suburbs of Karama and Satwa are both interesting places to get off the tourist trail and see something of local life among the city’s Indian and Filipino expats, with plenty of cheap curry houses and shops selling designer fakes.

A handful of additional attractions can be found slightly further afield. Just beyond Oud Metha the suburb of Jaddaf is home to the city’s last surviving traditional dhow-building yard , while over the Creek rises the shiny new Festival City development. A few kilometres further along the Creek, the Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary protects a rare surviving patch of undeveloped wetland, home to colourful flocks of flamingo, while a short drive southwest from here brings you to the spectacular Meydan Racecourse , home to the Dubai Cup, the world’s richest horse race.

The inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula were among the greatest seafarers of medieval times, using innovative shipbuilding techniques and navigational instruments to establish extensive maritime trading connections. Early Arab traders established outposts as far afield as India, Sri Lanka and East Africa, and the legacy of these early adventurers can still be seen in the religious and cultural heritage of places like Lamu in Kenya and Zanzibar in Tanzania, where the distinctive form of the lateen-sailed Arabian dhow survives to this day.

The word “dhow” itself is simply a generic name used to apply to all boats of Arabian design. Classic designs include the sambuq , a sizeable ocean-going vessel incorporating Indian and European features, including a square stern which is thought to have been influenced by old Portuguese galleons (traditional Arabian dhows are tapered at both ends), and the boom , another large seafaring dhow. Other smaller dhows still in use around the Gulf include the shu’ai and the jalibut , both formerly used for trading, pearling and fishing, as well as the abra , hundreds of which still ply the Creek today.

Perhaps the most distinctive feature of the traditional dhow was its so-called stitched construction – planks, usually of teak, were literally “sewn” together using coconut rope. Nails were increasingly used after European ships began to visit the region, although stitched boats were made right up until World War II. Traditional dhows are also unusual in being built “outside-in”, with exterior planking being nailed together before the internal framework is added (the exact opposite of European boat-building techniques).

The traditional dhow’s most visually notable feature was its distinctive triangular lateen sails, which allows boats to sail closer to the wind when travelling against the monsoon breezes. These have now disappeared on commercial vessels around the Gulf following the introduction of engines, though they can still be seen on local racing dhows.

Traditional wooden dhows still play an important part in the local economy, and continue to prove an efficient and cost-effective way of shipping goods around the Gulf and, particularly, over to Iran – as well as finding a new lease of life as tourist pleasure boats. There are still a number of traditional dhow-building yards around the UAE: in Dubai at Jaddaf, and in the neighbouring emirates of Ajman, Umm al Quwain and Ras al Khaimah, although the incredibly labour-intensive production costs and a gradual loss of the traditional skills required in dhow-construction (local boat-builders are famed for their ability to work without plans, building entirely by eye and experience) may eventually drive old-style dhow-building into extinction.

Facing Jaddaf on the opposite side of the Creek, Festival City is one of Dubai’s newest and largest purpose-built neighbourhoods – a self-contained city within a city, complete with villas and apartments, offices, golf course, marina, shopping mall and a pair of swanky five-star hotels.

Centrepiece of the development is the bright Festival Centre shopping mall. There’s nothing here that you won’t find (and generally done better) at other malls around the city, although the canalside cafés at the Creek end of the centre are pleasant enough, and there are also “sofa boats” for rent if you fancy a sedate turn around the waterways. Best of all are the sweeping views from the waterfront promenade (next to the mall and the adjacent Crowne Plaza and InterContinental hotels) over the Creek to the dhow-building yard at Jaddaf and the long line of skyscrapers beyond. The panorama is particularly fine towards dusk, when the sun sets behind the Burj Khalifa and towers along Sheikh Zayed Road, turning them a smoky grey, like the outline of some kind of surreal bar chart.

Covering the area between the airport and the Creek, the suburb of Garhoud is an interesting mishmash of up- and downmarket attractions. The Deira City Centre mall is the main draw for locals, eternally popular with an eclectic crowd running the gamut from Gulf Arabs and Russian bargain-hunters through to the many expat Indians and Filipinos who live in the down-at-heel suburbs on the far side of the airport.

On the southern edge of Oud Metha, the district of Jaddaf is home to the very last of Dubai’s traditional dhow-building yards , where you may be lucky enough to see craftsmen at work constructing these magnificent ocean-going vessels using carpentry skills which appear not to have changed for generations. The yards aren’t really set up for visitors and are essentially places of work, rather than tourist attractions, while there’s also a certain degree of pot luck involved depending on how many vessels are under construction at any given time – although the mainly Indian workforce are usually happy to chat to visitors and the yard owners don’t generally mind visitors having a look around.

Karama is the classic Dubai inner-city suburb, home to some of the legions of Indian, Pakistani and Filipino expatriate workers – waitresses, taxi drivers, builders and shopkeepers – who supply so much of the city’s labour. The district is centred on Kuwait Street and the bustling little Karama Centre , one of the city’s pokiest malls, with colourful little shops selling shalwar kameez and flouncy Indian-style jewellery. At the end of Kuwait Street lies the lively Karama Park , surrounded by cheap and cheery Indian restaurants and usually busy with a dozen simultaneous cricket matches after dark.

Just south of Karama Park is the district’s main tourist attraction, the Karama Souk , an unprepossessing concrete mall of hundreds of small shops stuffed full of fake designer clothes, watches, glasses, DVDs and other items (or “copy watches” and “copy bags” as the souk’s enthusiastic touts euphemistically describe them).

Around 4km south of Ras al Khor, the vast Meydan complex provides conclusive proof of the ruling Maktoum family’s passion – bordering on obsession – for all things equine. Centrepiece of the complex is the superb racecourse , opened in 2010 to replace the old track at nearby Nad al Sheba and provide a new and more fitting venue for the Dubai World Cup , the world’s richest horse race with a massive US$10 million in prize money. The complex also contains the usual fancy five-star hotel along with a few other buildings in a mixed residential and business development which is eventually intended to form a self-contained “city” along the lines of Festival City down the road.

Godolphin and the racing Maktoums

Ruler and architect of contemporary Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum is also celebrated in racing circles as one of today’s leading owners and breeders of thoroughbreds in his role as the founder of Godolphin , established in 1994 and now one of the world’s largest and most successful racing stables. Sheikh Mohammed’s love of horses runs deep: he is said to have shared his breakfast with his horse en route to school as a boy, to have competed in his first horse race aged 12, and to have been able to tame wild horses considered unrideable by others. His love of the turf dates back to his time as a student at Cambridge in England in the 1960s, and within a decade he and his brothers Hamdan and Ahmed all had horses in training at nearby Newmarket. The first of many Maktoum family triumphs came in 1982, when Hamdan’s Touching Wood won that year’s St Leger classic at Doncaster, followed up by Derby wins in 1989 and 1994.

Godolphin now have over 1500 horses in training across the globe and have won more than three thousand races in fourteen different countries, becoming one of the biggest buyers and breeders of racehorses on the planet, with a total investment in bloodstock, stud farms and various related properties now worth over US$2.45 billion. In 2013, they also had the less enviable distinction of finding themselves at the centre of what The Economist described as "the biggest doping scandal in racing history" when it was discovered that 22 horses at their Newmarket stables had been dosed with anabolic steroids by their head trainer, Mahmood al Zarooni. Al Zarooni was immediately dismissed and prompt action was taken to clear Godolphin's global reputation, and in 2014 the stables went on to enjoy easily their most successful year ever, with a staggering 361 wins worldwide.

Across the Creek from Garhoud, the rather formless suburb of Oud Metha is home to assorted malls, hotels and lowbrow leisure attractions, including the old-fashioned Lamcy Plaza and the even more old-fashioned Al Nasr Leisureland amusement park. Nearby, the serene Ismaili Centre sits amid attractive gardens on land donated by Sheikh Rashid in 1982. It’s one of Dubai’s most beautiful places of worship, combining hints of Morocco and Egypt in its elegantly understated architecture, although sadly entry is restricted to Ismaili–Muslims, so most visitors will be able to see only those parts of the building visible from the street.

Khan Murjan Souk

Hidden away between Wafi and Raffles , Khan Murjan Souk is one of Dubai’s finest “traditional” developments, allegedly modelled after the fabled fourteenth-century Khan Murjan Souk in Baghdad. The souk is divided into four sections – Egyptian, Syrian, Moroccan and Turkish (not that you can really tell the difference) – spread over two underground levels with a lovely outdoor restaurant at its centre and some 125 shops selling all manner of traditional wares. It’s a great (albeit pricey) place to shop, while the faux-Arabian decor is impressively done, with lavish detailing ranging from intricately carved wooden balconies to enormous Moroccan lanterns and colourful tilework. Of course, it’s all about as authentic as a Mulberry bag from Karama – indeed, if the city authorities are serious about clamping down on the local trade in fakes and forgeries, they could do worse than start here. Still, the whole thing has been done with such enormous panache and at, presumably, such enormous expense that it’s hard not to be at least a little bit impressed.

Wafi and Raffles

Oud Metha's leading attraction is the wacky Egyptian-themed Wafi complex, a little slice of Vegas in Dubai, dotted with assorted random obelisks, Pharaonic statues, random hieroglyphs and miniature pyramids, and with a good selection of shops and restaurants inside. The Egyptian theme is continued in the opulent Raffles hotel next door, built in the form of a vast pyramid complete with glass-capped summit – particularly spectacular when lit up after dark. The hotel is also exactly the same height (139m) as the Great Pyramid of Cheops at Giza in Egypt, which puts the incredible size of that ancient wonder of the world into remarkable perspective.

Some 5km southwest of Festival City, the Dubai Creek flows into Ras al Khor , an extensive inland lagoon dotted with mangroves and surrounded by intertidal salt and mud flats – a unique area of unspoilt nature close to the city centre. As its name, "Head of the Creek", suggests, Ras al Khor originally marked the end of Dubai's principal waterway, although the Creek has now been extended a further 7km or so all the way to Business Bay, with further works planned as part of the Dubai Canal project which will eventually take it all the way back to the sea at Jumeirah – meaning that by 2017 Ras al Khor will no longer be anywhere near the head of the Creek, but more like about halfway round.

Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

The southern end of the lagoon provides, for now at least, a home for the low-key Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, best known for its aquatic birdlife. The sanctuary is an important stopover on winter migratory routes from East Africa to West Asia, and almost seventy different species have been spotted here. It’s best known for the colourful flocks of bright pink flamingoes which nest here – one of Dubai’s most surreal sights when seen perched against the smoggy outlines of the city skyscrapers beyond. You can’t actually go into the sanctuary, but you can birdwatch from one of two hides on its edge. Signage for the hides is minimal and you’ll need a car to reach them, but don’t expect taxi drivers to know where they are. Free binoculars are provided, although the roar of the nearby motorways isn’t particularly conducive to the relaxed contemplation of nature. The two hides are Fantir (“Flamingo”) hide on the west side of the sanctuary, beside the Oud Metha road (E66) just north of the junction with the Hatta road (E44); and Gum (“Mangrove”) hide on the south side of the sanctuary, on the north side of the Hatta road – although to reach it from central Dubai you’ll need to do an annoying 8km loop to get back on the correct side of the highway.

The unpretentious district of Satwa is the southernmost of Dubai’s predominantly low-rise, low-income inner suburbs before you reach the giant skyscrapers of Sheikh Zayed Road and the beginnings of the supersized modern city beyond. It’s also one of the few places in Dubai where the city’s different ethnic groups really rub shoulders, with its mix of Arab, Indian, Filipino and even a few European residents reflected in an unusually eclectic selection of places to eat, from cheap-and-cheerful curry houses to Lebanese shwarma cafés and Western fast-food joints.

At the centre of the district lies Satwa Roundabout , overlooked by the Chelsea Plaza hotel. The streets south of here are mainly occupied by Indian and Pakistani shops and cafés, including the well-known Ravi’s . West from the roundabout stretches Satwa’s principal thoroughfare, the tree-lined 2nd December Street (still widely referred to by its old name, Al Diyafah Street), one of the nicest in Dubai – and one of the few outside the city centre with any real street life – with wide pavements, dozens of cafés and restaurants and an interestingly cosmopolitan atmosphere. It all feels rather Mediterranean, especially after dark, when the cafés get going, the crowds come out, and young men in expensive cars start driving round and round the block in a vain effort to impress.

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written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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Dubai Attraction Tickets

Thrill-seekers' guide to dubai.

Dubai offers a thrilling and diverse array of experiences. Enjoy the adrenaline rush at theme parks , cruise along the coast, cool off at water parks , explore the desert adventures , take in breathtaking views from observation decks , engage in exciting watersports , and immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural heritage at museums .

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• Don't miss the chance to witness the stunning views of Dubai from the world's tallest building by booking your tickets to the Burj Khalifa today.
• Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest building, located in Dubai. It stands at a height of 828 meters and has 160 floors.
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• The Dubai Underwater Zoo & Aquarium is located in the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world.
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Dubai is a treasure trove of adventure, entertainment, and relaxation. The city boasts an array of options to suit diverse interests and age groups, ranging from thrilling experiences such as theme parks and helicopter tours to peaceful escapes like sandy beaches and cultural landmarks. Explore a wide range of exhilarating activities in Dubai with prices that cater to every budget, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all. Elevate your Dubai experience by securing your Dubai city tour tickets, granting you access to a mesmerizing journey through the heart of this vibrant metropolis.

Dubai's awe-inspiring wonders await you on an exhilarating journey! Be captivated by the picturesque Dubai Marina on a luxurious dhow cruise , as the glittering cityscape leaves you in awe. Immerse yourself in the world-famous landmarks and discover the secrets of the city on a Golden City tour that will take your breath away. Discover the extraordinary activities in Dubai today that guarantee an unforgettable experience, leaving an indelible mark on your memories. Embark on an enchanting adventure with Dubai activities deals that will leave you yearning for more, spellbound, and utterly captivated.

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Prepare to be blown away by the fun rides, slides, and attractions of parks like Atlantis Aquaventure , and Laguna Water Park among many others. And if that's not enough, Dreamland Aqua Park Dubai offers an extraordinary blend of land and water-based activities that will have you on the edge of your seat!

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As you explore the mesmerizing desert landscape, you can soar above it all with a hot air balloon ride or immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the desert at sunset while savoring a delectable Arabian feast under a canopy of twinkling stars. To make the most of your Dubai desert adventures, the Dubai Pass offers unbeatable prices and exciting Dubai deals online on all the activities you desire. With the Dubai Pass, you can enjoy a variety of Dubai adventures, making your experience even more memorable.

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Why You Should Visit Dubai?

• Iconic Architecture: Dubai is home to breathtaking architectural marvels like the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, and the stunning Palm Jumeirah.
• Shopping Paradise: Indulge in a shopper's paradise with luxurious malls offering a wide range of international brands, as well as traditional markets like the Dubai Gold Souk and Spice Souk.
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• Futuristic Attractions: Visit the Museum Of The Future and Dubai Frame to witness innovative technology and architectural wonders that showcase Dubai's vision for the future.
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Dubai, the city of dreams with its extravagant lifestyle and stunning skyline, offers a plethora of thrilling watersports activities that will leave you breathless and craving for more. Whether you're seeking an adrenaline-pumping experience or a relaxing day out, Dubai's crystal-clear waters and warm weather make it the perfect destination for watersports enthusiasts.

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The Dubai Handbook: Everything You Need to Know

• Weather : Dubai has a hot desert climate with temperatures averaging between 25-40°C (77-104°F). 
• Language : Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood.
• Time Zone : Standard Time is 4 hours ahead of Coordinated Universal Time (UTC+4)
• Currency : The official currency is the UAE Dirham (AED).
• Emergency Numbers: Dial 999 for Police, 998 for Ambulance, 997 for Fire Department.
• Socket Type: C, D & G
• Dress Code: While Dubai is modern, it's respectful to dress modestly in public areas, especially when visiting religious sites. Swimwear is acceptable at beaches and pools but should be avoided in public areas.

By Air: Dubai is one of the most well-connected cities in the world, and reaching it through flight is both convenient and efficient. Dubai International Airport is the main airport serving the city and is located just a short distance from the city center. It is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves as a hub for several major airlines.

Travelers can reach Dubai by direct flights from most major cities around the world, including New York, London, Sydney, and Mumbai, among others. Several international airlines offer flights to Dubai, including Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways, among others.

By Road: To reach Dubai by car, one can drive on the major highways such as Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road (E311) or Sheikh Zayed Road (E11) that connect Dubai to other major cities in the country like Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman. Alternatively, one can take public bus services operated by Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) or private car services like Uber and Careem to reach Dubai.

Ideally, the best time to visit Dubai is during the winter season (November to March) when the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities and cultural events. However, it can also vary depending on your preferences and what activities you plan to do. Here is a breakdown of the seasons in Dubai:

• Winter (November - March): The winter season is the most popular time for tourists to visit Dubai. The weather is mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities like desert safaris, beach trips, and sightseeing. 
• Spring (April - May): The spring season in Dubai offers tourists a perfect opportunity to enjoy the pleasant weather, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 35°C, making it a great time to enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and sightseeing. With fewer crowds and lower prices, travelers can easily explore the city's attractions, immerse themselves in its rich culture, and enjoy a peaceful vacation.
• Summer (June - September): The summer is the hottest time of the year in Dubai, with temperatures soaring up to 45°C. This makes it a fantastic time for tourists to visit indoor attractions, such as the world-class malls, indoor skiing, and water parks.

Dubai is a city that offers a variety of transportation options to help you get around easily. Here are some of the best ways to get around:

• Dubai Metro: It is an automated and modern subway system, offering separate cars for women and children, around 30 stations, and free WiFi. 
• Buses : Dubai's extensive network of buses covers up to 87% of the city's urban areas, with over 1,500 buses and 35 lines connecting to metro stations for easy transportation.
• Taxis : Dubai has an extensive network of taxis available throughout the city, making it easy to hail a ride at popular attractions like malls and beaches.
• Car Services: For a more private and convenient mode of transportation, you can schedule a ride through apps like Uber and Careem.
• Abra : This is a traditional wooden boat that shuttles passengers between the Bur Dubai and Deira areas.

• Burj Khalifa: Explore the best of Dubai’s stunning skyline by securing your Dubai attraction tickets for the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. 
• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Discover a mesmerizing world of marine lives at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo and indulge in shark diving and glass bottom boat rides.
• Dubai Frame: Get the essence of a perfect blend of history, culture and innovation at this towering architectural marvel situated in the heart of Dubai.
• Palm Jumeirah: Experience the ultimate luxury and adventure with a myriad of water sports, fine dining and beachfront relaxation at the incredible Palm Jumeirah.
• Dubai Dolphinarium: The Dubai Dolphinarium offers an unforgettable experience with the playful dolphins and interactive seal shows along with other fun activities.
• IMG World of Adventure: This attraction of Dubai houses an exhilarating array of heart pumping rides and immersive experiences, making it a must-visit destination.
• Dubai Marina: Dubai Marina offers visitors a wide range of luxury experiences such as yacht rides, fine dining and adventure sport activities. 

Here's a short Dubai packing guide to help you prepare for your trip:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm weather
• Modest clothing for visiting religious sites
• Swimsuits for the beach or hotel pools
• Comfortable walking shoes
• Scarf or shawl for women to cover their heads and shoulders when visiting mosques

Accessories :

• Sunglasses to protect your eyes from the bright sun
• Sunscreen with high SPF
• Hat or cap 
• Power bank to keep your devices charged on-the-go
• Camera to capture the beautiful sights of Dubai

Miscellaneous :

• Travel adapter for your electronics
• Passport and necessary travel documents
• Travel insurance to cover unforeseen circumstances
• Cash and credit/debit cards for transactions
• Lightweight luggage with wheels to navigate the airport and city with ease
• Remember to pack light and dress appropriately for the local culture. Enjoy your trip to Dubai!

Here are some do's and don'ts to keep in mind while visiting Dubai:

Do's :

• Dress modestly and respectfully when visiting religious sites
• Respect local customs and traditions
• Ask for permission before taking pictures of locals
• Bargain respectfully when shopping at souks and markets
• Carry a form of identification with you at all times
• Use sunscreen and stay hydrated in the hot weather

Don'ts:

• Public displays of affection are not allowed
• Drinking alcohol in public areas is prohibited
• Swearing, making rude gestures, or showing anger in public is frowned upon
• Taking pictures of government buildings or military installations is not allowed
• Bringing drugs or illegal substances into the country is strictly prohibited
• Eating or drinking in public during Ramadan is not allowed
• Remember to be respectful of the local culture and follow the rules and regulations set in place. Have a safe and enjoyable trip to Dubai!

Dubai is known for being a luxurious destination, but there are ways to save money and still enjoy all that the city has to offer. Here are some money-saving tips for Dubai:

• Visit Dubai during the summer months for lower hotel rates and airfare.
• Use Dubai's efficient public transportation system instead of taxis for cheaper fares.
• Book tours and attractions in advance for discounted prices and purchase Dubai online tickets online for additional discounts.
• Take advantage of free attractions like the Dubai Fountain and Jumeirah Beach Walk.
• Dine at local eateries and shop at souks for souvenirs at reasonable prices.
• Check credit card benefits for discounts and promotions.

FAQ's of Dubai

Why you should book dubai attraction tickets from us.

• Convenient online booking: Effortlessly secure your spot and buy tickets online from the convenience of your home, sparing yourself the inconvenience of queuing in lengthy lines. 
• Best price guarantee: We offer competitive pricing and the best price guarantee on all of our attraction tickets, so you can be sure you're getting the best deal.
• Flexible booking options: You can choose from various ticket options and packages, including skip-the-queue tickets, Dubai combo tickets, and more. 
• Expert recommendations: Our team of travel experts can provide personalized guidance and advice on the best attractions to visit based on customers' interests and preferences.
• Secure payment and booking process: Our online booking system is safe and secure, with multiple payment options available for added convenience.
• Hassle-free cancellation policy: We offer a hassle-free cancellation policy on most attraction tickets, so you can book with confidence, knowing that you have the freedom to change or cancel plans, if needed.
• Customer support: Our customer support team is available 24/7 to assist you with any questions or concerns they may have before, during, or after your trip.

How many days is enough to see Dubai?

A minimum of 3-4 days is enough to explore Dubai with your loved ones. In this duration you can explore the city's top attractions, destinations and indulge in a plethora of activities.

What is the best time to visit Dubai?

The best time to visit Dubai is between the months of November and March, as the weather is mild and pleasant. During these months visitors can experience various outdoor activities and festivals such as Dubai Shopping and Food Festivals. One can also experience the famous Dubai World Cup (mostly held in the month of March), where you can explore the world of glamor, food, and entertainment all at the same time.

Do Checkout: Dubai Dolphinarium Tickets

What are the top attractions to visit in Dubai?

Some of the top attractions in Dubai include the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain, Palm Jumeirah, and the Dubai Miracle Garden.

You Can Also Checkout: Museum of Illusions Dubai

What are the best water parks in Dubai?

Some of the best water parks in Dubai include Aquaventure Waterpark, Wild Wadi Waterpark, and Legoland Water Park.

What are the best theme parks to visit in Dubai?

• IMG World of Adventure : IMG World of Adventure is a thrilling amusement park and should be on your must visit list while purchasing Dubai attraction tickets.
• Global Village: This is a multicultural park and a true delight for tourists who can make the most out of their trip with the exciting Dubai attraction deals.
• Legoland : You can have the ultimate LEGO building experience and also have a thrilling experience with the 60 different rides, shows and water slides.
• Motiongate : With My Dubai Pass, get access to the Motiongate Dubai offering immersive experiences and adrenaline pumping rides. 
• Bollywood Park : Explore the vibrant world of Indian Cinema at Bollywood Park Dubai with live performances, authentic Indian cuisine and thrilling rides.
• VR Park, Dubai Mall : Feel the thrill with the various virtual reality adventures and experiences at the VR Park situated in the Dubai Mall.

What are the best day trips from Dubai?

• Qasr Al Watan, Abu Dhabi : Marvel at the grandeur of Arabian architecture and witness the UAE’s rich cultural heritage come to life through interactive displays and immersive exhibitions.
• Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi: Explore the exquisite collection of art and artifacts from around the world, spanning from ancient to contemporary at the Louvre Museum.
• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: This is the perfect getaway place for a day’s trip from Dubai and offers a number of thrilling rides and experiences.
• Warner Bros: Secure your tickets to Warner Bros. from MyDubai Pass at the earliest to have a fun and adventure filled day away from the hustle bustle of Dubai.
• Abu Dhabi Desert Safari: Embark on a thrilling desert safari in the Arabian sands and enjoy dune bashing, camel riding and a traditional Bedouin style dinner under the stars.

What are the best museums to visit in Dubai?

• Museum of Future: Secure your visit to the Museum of the Future with the Dubai attraction tickets to explore the cutting edge innovations and groundbreaking technologies highlighting the endless possibilities of tomorrow. 
• Infinity Des Lumieres: Indulge in the magnificence of the art works of Van Gogh, Dreamed Japan, and Verse displayed with the perfect fusion of light, color, sound and rhythm. 
• Museum of Illusions: Have the most immersive experience at the Museum of Illusions with the various optical illusions and installations defying the laws of nature. 
• 3D World Trick Art Museum: Immerse yourself in a mesmerizing world of optical illusions and surreal 3D artwork at the 3D World Trick Art Museum in Dubai, offering an unparalleled experience of creativity and thrill. 
• Oli Oli Dubai: This is Dubai’s first experiential children’s play museum having 8 galleries and unique attractions such as Toshi’s Nets, Water Gallery and Creative Lab. 

What are the best things to do in Dubai with kids?

Indulge in the ultimate Dubai experience with an all-inclusive Dubai activities package that promises to ignite your senses and create memories to last a lifetime.

• Visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium: Let your kids have a fascinating and educational experience with the various spectacular marine exhibits, interactive touch pools and much more. 
• Spend a day at Kidzania: Kids can role-play real-life professions and engage in fun activities that foster creativity, teamwork, and essential life skills at Kidzania Dubai.
• Dubai Miracle Garden: Grab the best Dubai attraction deals for Miracle Garden and take a tour of the world’s largest natural flower garden.
• Emirates Park Zoo: With My Dubai Pass, let the kids have an exciting and educational experience as they will get to interact with a wide range of animals, watch live shows and enjoy fun rides.
• Garden Glow: Explore Dubai Garden Glow, a mesmerizing and enchanting world of illuminated wonders that offers a plethora of activities and experiences for kids and adults alike.
• Al Ain Zoo: It is a wonderful destination for kids, offering a variety of exciting activities such as feeding giraffes, watching majestic lions roam, and exploring the vibrant flora and fauna of the Arabian Peninsula. 
• Dubai Safari Park: Experience the best of a safari experience in the stunning city of Dubai and let your kids enjoy a wide range of activities such as animal encounters and dune bashing.

Also Checkout: Dubai Garden Glow

What are the best places to visit in Dubai for architecture?

• Burj Khalifa: The Burj Khalifa stands as a marvel of modern architecture, with its sleek design, intricate engineering, and soaring height of 828 meters making it a true icon of the 21st century. 
• Burj Al Arab: It is characterized by its iconic sail-shaped structure and innovative engineering, making it a globally recognized symbol of modern luxury and design excellence. 
• Atlantis, The Palm: Atlantis, The Palm is a stunning architectural masterpiece that effortlessly blends traditional Arabian design elements with contemporary flair.
• Cayan Tower: Avail the best Dubai attraction deals and visit the Cayan Tower, a stunning architectural masterpiece, renowned for its innovative twisted design that gracefully soars above the city's skyline. 
• Museum of the Future: The Museum of the Future in Dubai presents a visionary architectural masterpiece that seamlessly blends futuristic design with cutting-edge technology, elevating the museum experience to a new level of innovation. 

Why should I go on a Dubai Desert Safari?

• Experience the thrill of dune bashing: Hold on tight to your seats for an adrenaline-pumping ride over the desert sand dunes.
• Get an insight into the Emirati Life: Experiencing the rich culture and heritage of the Emirates is one of the highlights of a Dubai Desert Safari.
• Enjoy a traditional dinner: Relish on some delectable Arabian cuisine along with live Arabian Performances such as belly dance, fire shows, etc. on your Dubai Desert Safari. 
• Watch the stunning sunset: One of the best parts of the Dubai Desert Safari is the golden hour, which paints the entire sky into hues of yellow, orange and red. 

Top Things to Do in Dubai

• Dubai Attraction
• Kid's Attraction
• Amusement Parks
• Travel Guide
• Monthwise Guide

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25 best things to do in Dubai

Jun 4, 2021 • 12 min read

Whether it's in a souk or a mall, shopping in Dubai is an essential experience © Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

If you're planning to visit Dubai, you'll find a stirring mix of profound traditions and futuristic vision wrapped into starkly evocative desert splendour.

You won't be short of things to do in the sci-fi-esque land of iconic skyscrapers, palm-shaped islands, city-sized malls and palatial beach resorts. Dubai embraces sunshine, innovation and cultural dynamism, and is known as a shopping haven with a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. Here are some great things to do to make the most from your trip.

Burj Khalifa

Dubai is famous for its dramatic skyscrapers, and above them all looms the Burj Khalifa , shaped like a deep-space rocket and, at 828m, the world's tallest building. It's a stunning feat of architecture and engineering, and a trip to the observation deck on the 124th floor (1483ft) is the most popular way to take in the amazing views it offers. You can also buy tickets for "At the Top Sky" on the 148th floor, which is the world's highest outdoor observation deck at 1820ft.

Clad in 28,000 glass panels, the Burj Khalifa also lays claim to several more superlatives, including the highest occupied floor and an elevator with the longest travel distance. On hazy days, it’s better to visit at night.

Al Fahidi Historic District

Wandering around this restored heritage area in Bur Dubai provides a tangible sense of historic Middle Eastern architecture and culture. Low-lying traditional courtyard buildings flank this quiet labyrinth of lanes in Al Fahidi Historic District , many of them featuring arabesque windows, decorative gypsum screens and wind towers.

Some contain craft shops, small heritage museums, art galleries, artsy guesthouses or cafés serving local fare, including Middle Eastern breakfasts and camel milk smoothies. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding leads guided tours of the quarter.

Dubai Miracle Garden

Covering some 2000 sq metres and touted as the largest natural flower garden in the world, there’s a sense of Alice in Wonderland–esque surrealism when entering Dubai Miracle Garden . Wander past quirky bloom-covered peacocks, clocks and castles, or alternatively, chill out in a cabana with billowing drapes and floor cushions.

Home to 100 million flowers, and adjacent to the enormous nine-dome Dubai Butterfly Garden, it is incredibly popular, attracting 55,000 visitors a week. There are food outlets on site as well as a souvenir shop and small trampoline park.

Shop 'til you drop

Shopping malls represent an integral part of the culture and lifestyle in Dubai. Not merely places for maxing out your credit cards on fashion, electronics or gourmet foods, malls are also where locals go to socialize in cafés and restaurants, to catch a movie in a state-of-the-art multiplex or to get adrenaline kicks in an indoor theme park or game arcade. The best and biggest of the bunch is Dubai Mall, which features not only 1300 stores but also a giant aquarium, an indoor ice rink and a genuine dinosaur skeleton.

Serious shoppers can check out the Dubai Shopping Festival, which lures bargain-hunters from around the world. It takes place in January each year, and there are huge discounts in the souqs and malls. The city is abuzz with activities during the festival, ranging from live concerts to fashion shows and nightly fireworks.

Mushrif National Park

One of the oldest parks in Dubai, Mushrif National Park covers more than 5 sq km of natural ghaf forest. Mushrif is located around 15km east of the city centre, and is a haven for birds, including owls, Orphean warblers, hoopoes and black redstarts. Dating from 1974, the park has plenty of manmade attractions as well, including walking trails and bicycle tracks, a large children's playground, a swimming pool and barbecue pits.

Read more: The 9 best parks in Dubai

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

On the outskirts of Sharjah , the 225 sq km Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve accounts for 5% of the Emirate of Dubai's total land. The reserve was established in 1999 and has been involved in projects to reintroduce mountain gazelles, sand gazelles and Arabian oryx.

It's possible to stay inside the reserve at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa , which was designed for superluxe ecotourism. The reserve is divided into four zones, the third of which is only open to resort guests and the fourth to a small number of desert tour operators, including Arabian Adventures , offering a less costly admission than overnighting at the resort.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

In 2016, Dubai added four theme parks to its stable of attractions, including IMG Worlds of Adventure , the world's largest indoor theme park. Housed in an air-conditioned hangar the size of 28 football fields, the park is truly impressive, with more than 20 rides and attractions split across four themed zones – Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure and IMG Boulevard. You won't go hungry as there are 28 dining outlets to choose from.

Etihad Museum

Opened in 2017, the striking Etihad Museum engagingly chronicles the birth of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, spurred by the discovery of oil in the 1950s and the withdrawal of the British in 1968.

Documentary films, photographs, artifacts, timelines and interactive displays zero in on historic milestones in the years leading up to and immediately following this momentous occasion, and they pay homage to the country's seven founding fathers. Free tours of the adjacent circular Union House are available, which is where the historic signing of the Constitution of the United Arab Emirates took place.

For a dose of Arabian Nights flair, head to Dubai's historic core and plunge headlong into its charmingly chaotic warren of markets. The famed headliner is the dazzling Gold Souq . Even if you don't have a thing for bling, a walk through here will feel like you've entered a giant Aladdin's Cave. It's fun to just watch the action, especially in the evening. If you're buying, sharpen your haggling skills, no matter whether shopping for teensy earrings, an engagement ring or a dowry-worthy necklace.

White Dubai

Dazzling rooftop bars, chill beachfront lounges, classic pubs, cool karaoke joints, speakeasy-style nightclubs, live-music venues – with such variety, finding a party location to suit your mood is hardly a tall order in Dubai. One of the biggest draws for nocturnal action is White Dubai. The mega-venue with its impressive light and sound systems sits smack dab on top of the grandstand of the Meydan Racecourse.

Desert escapes

The Arabian desert, with its weathered mountains, undulating sand dunes and wide open spaces, exudes a special mystique that can easily be savored on a day trip from urbanized Dubai. There are numerous tour operators to set you up with everything from camel treks to sandboarding or overnight safaris. The best ones offer an authentic look at local culture through encounters with Bedouins and traditional meals. Alternatively, consider hiring a 4WD and staying at a desert resort, so you can appreciate the magnificent scenery on your own schedule.

Read more: Top 9 day trips from Dubai

Dubai Museum

Housed in Bur Dubai's Al Fahidi Fort, the city's oldest surviving structure, Dubai Museum, provides a well-laid-out introduction to the history of the emirate. Marvel at its turbo-evolution from simple desert settlement to futuristic metropolis in just a third of a century. Dioramas recreate traditional scenes in a market, at home and in the mosque, while other galleries focus on life at sea and in the desert. An archaeological exhibition illustrates the ancient history of the region with a display of items unearthed during excavations at local digs.

Dubai Design District

This hub for creatives lures visitors with its edgy architecture, contemporary restaurants, public art, galleries and calendar of cultural events. Visitors to Dubai Design District can tap into this laboratory of tastemakers by browsing showrooms and pop-ups, eavesdropping on bearded hipsters in sleek cafés, checking out art exhibits in building lobbies, or attending free screenings and workshops. The week-long Dubai Design Week is held there in November, with an extensive offering of talks, workshops, masterclasses and kids' activities.

Dubai Butterfly Garden

If you want to deepen your knowledge of these pretty flying insects, pop into the Dubai Butterfly Museum , located next to the Dubai Miracle Garden. Some 15,000 butterflies flutter around nine indoor domed gardens, and you can see for yourself how they begin as caterpillars and evolve into their flying adaptations. Don’t miss the Butterfly and Insect Museum, which features in-depth analysis and information about thousands of colorful butterfly species from around the world.

Museum of Illusions

It opened in 2018 and the Museum of Illusions in the Al Seef district is fast becoming a favorite for families and Instagram fans. Kids will love the 150-plus illusions, including the rooms of mirrors, distorted perspective and various other optical illusions, while parents can take memorably wacky photos. Avoid visiting at weekends if possible, as visitors are restricted by number and you may have to wait your turn.

Jumeirah Mosque

Snowy white and intricately detailed, Jumeirah is Dubai's most beautiful mosque and one of only a handful in the United Arab Emirates open to non-Muslims. It's particularly beautiful at dusk and visitors are allowed in six days a week. One-hour guided tours are operated by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding , and while modest dress is preferred, traditional clothing can be borrowed for free.

Dubai Fountain

The dancing Dubai Fountain is spectacularly set in the middle of a giant lake against the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa. Water undulates as gracefully as a belly dancer, arcs like a dolphin and surges as high as 140m, all synced to stirring classical, Arabic and world music soundtracks played on speakers. There are plenty of great vantage points, including a 272m-long floating boardwalk, which takes you just 9m away from the fountain.

Other good viewing spots include some of the restaurants at Souk Al Bahar , the bridge linking Souk Al Bahar with Dubai Mall, the Dubai Mall waterfront terrace, or aboard a 25-minute Dubai Fountain Lake Ride on a traditional wooden abra boat.

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature

The long-running annual Emirates Airline Festival of Literature brings authors and thousands of book fans together to celebrate all things reading and writing. Held over nine days in March, the festival hosts talks, discussions, panels and a special program just for children, with many activities free to attend. It offers attendees a chance to meet local and world-famous authors, attend literary debates and workshops, participate in competitions and be inspired by their literary heroes.

Global Village

The carnival-like Global Village is a bit like a ‘world fair’ for shoppers, and you'll find it on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). Each of the 30-something pavilions showcases a specific nation’s culture and products. Aside from shopping, there's also lots of entertainment – from Chinese opera to Turkish whirling dervishes – as well as a funfair with dozens of rides from tame to terrifying.

Burj Al Arab

This landmark luxe hotel, with its dramatic design that mimics the billowing sail of a ship, floats on its own artificial island and has become the iconic symbol of Dubai’s boom years. The Burj Al Arab's interior is all about impact, drama and unapologetic bling, with dancing fountains, gold fittings, shiny marble and whirlpool baths your butler can fill with champagne if you so wish. If a stay exceeds your budget, you can still partake in the opulence by making reservations for cocktails, afternoon tea or dinner in the underwater restaurant.

Dubai Frame

Opened in January 2018, this 150m rectangular 'picture frame' sits in Zabeel Park , right between historic and modern Dubai, and provides grand views of both parts of the city. Galleries on the ground floor of Dubai Frame tell the story of Dubai (the past) before visitors are whisked up to a viewing platform at roof level (the present). The final stop is another gallery depicting a vision of Dubai 50 years from now (the future).

Al Qudra Lake

One for the nature lovers, Al Qudra Lake is a series of man-made lakes set amidst the rolling dunes of the Saih Al Salam desert on Dubai’s southern outskirts. Part of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, the surrounding area is unspoiled. Swap skyscrapers for wide open dunes and oasis-like pools where you can spot plenty of free-roaming wildlife, more than 100 species of birds and several desert plants.

This long, pristine stretch of white sand, off Jumeirah Road and next to a mosque, is superclean and has lots of activities, including kitesurfing, beach tennis, beach volleyball and kayaking. There are showers, wi-fi, toilets and changing facilities on Kite Beach , plus lots of food trucks and cafés. It offers great views of the Burj Al Arab, and gets very busy on Friday and Saturday when a seaside market with crafts and gifts sets up.

Perfume Museum

The waterfront Perfume Museum is part of the Al Shindagha Museum restoration project and is the former home of a Dubai sheikha who loved all things perfume. The old building has been restored and its interactive exhibits are based around scent, smells and fragrance. Keep your entry ticket and you’ll get free access to the nearby Dubai Creek House .

Steps from the Deira Old Souk abra station, the sound of Arabic chatter bounces around the lanes of this covered market. Dubai's famous Spice Souk is filled with intoxicating sights and smells. Its vendors work hard to unload cardamom, saffron and other aromatic herbs photogenically stored in burlap sacks alongside nuts, incense burners, henna kits, shishas and dried limes. Away from the tourist-oriented main thoroughfare, tiny shops also sell groceries and other household goods.

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Detailed Dubai Itinerary for up to 7 Days (+Map & Planning Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Visiting Dubai in the United Arab Emirates for the first time and wondering how to plan your trip so that you can see most of the top sights in Dubai?

What are the ‘must-sees’? How many days do you need? And how to plan your time so that you can make the most out of your trip, no matter the duration…

In this guide, we share  a recommended Dubai itinerary for 7 days.  Why 7? Because this is about the minimum amount of time you need if you want to see most of the top places in Dubai, take a day trip to Abu Dhabi (must-do!), and keep your trip somewhat relaxed and enjoyable.

Our suggested one-week Dubai itinerary is described below in detail, including the map indicating all the top sights and attractions. We also included our experience-based tips to help you with the practical side of planning a trip (such as which tickets to pre-book in order to avoid disappointment).

If your trip is shorter and you have less than a week in Dubai, you can simply adjust our recommended Dubai itinerary based on your interests and the time that you have. To make it easier to decide what to see, we listed the very best places and top attractions first. So for example, with three days in Dubai, follow the itinerary described on days 1, 2, and 3. With 5 days in Dubai, follow the recommendations for the first 5 days, etc.

Of course, you can also ‘mix and match’, pick the activities that interest you the most, switch the days around, and plan your own perfect trip. Use this just as inspiration for the top places to see and what can actually be done in Dubai in a week. And if your trip is shorter, you can also find some suggestions for half a day, a day or two in our guide on planning a stopover in Dubai .

Dubai Itinerary Overview & Map

Here you can see our recommended Dubai itinerary in a nutshell as well as the map indicating all the top sights mentioned in our article.

Further below, you can find a detailed day-by-day itinerary with more info, tips, and photos. It will give you a better idea of what to expect and how to plan your time so that you can see the very best of Dubai in a week or less.

This is our recommended 7-day itinerary for your first trip to Dubai:

• DAY 1: Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa) + Museum of the Future
• DAY 2: Old Dubai + Desert Tour
• DAY 3: Burj Al Arab, The Palm, Marina
• DAY 4: Abu Dhabi Day Trip
• DAY 5: Dubai Miracle Garden + Global Village or IMG Worlds of Adventure
• DAY 6: Waterpark (or an alternative day trip)
• DAY 7: Dubai Frame + AYA Universe + iFly Dubai

Good to know: In this itinerary, we grouped the best places to see in Dubai and top activities based on their location and the time that you need in order to visit them and to travel in between. Traffic can be really busy, so it’s important to keep that in mind when planning your Dubai sightseeing itinerary! For more tips, be sure to also read our Dubai travel tips .

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Practical Info & Planning Tips

Here is some practical information to help to plan your trip to Dubai:

Getting around: The cheapest and fastest way to cover big distances in Dubai is the metro. However, depending on where you are staying/going, a taxi is a very good and affordable option as well. See our guide to Dubai public transport for more info.

Renting a car is quite affordable, but parking can be a real hassle in Dubai. Plus, most guided tours include pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, so renting a car is not really a must.

Where to stay: For a short trip to Dubai with sightseeing as the main focus, stay close to Dubai Mall (e.g. Sofitel Dubai Downtown ). If you are staying for a week or longer, consider the Dubai Marina area (e.g. JW Marriott Hotel Marina ) or Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) near the Marina (e.g. Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach ).

Our experience: We tend to stay on the beach when visiting Dubai. Once we stayed at Doubletree by Hilton JBR Beach , and recently we stayed at Rove La Mer Beach Hotel which is at the beach, but also close to the Dubai Mall area. This area is still under development but has a very hip and relaxed feeling.

Tickets and tours: If you wonder whether you need to pre-book anything/everything, my advice is simple: if you don’t want to miss it, be sure to book it in advance. Tickets to the most popular attractions in Dubai often sell out, some even weeks upfront. And even if you can get them on the spot, they are usually (a lot) more expensive than online. For tours, it depends. Usually, you should be able to book last minute, but if you find a tour you like, just reserve it.

Good to know: Most of the attraction tickets and tours we recommend can be booked via the GetYourGuide website which offers very flexible cancelation so you have nothing to lose. This is the website we personally used for all our tickets and tours in Dubai. In our detailed day-to-day itinerary below, you can find more information about tickets and tours that we recommend.

Please note that all the hours in our itinerary are only indicated for your reference so that you have a better idea of how much time approximately you need everywhere. Don’t forget to foresee plenty of buffer time between the attractions that work with timed entry slots!

Museum of the Future – Sky Views Observatory – Dubai Mall – Burj Khalifa – Dubai Fountains.

Day 1 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Museum of the Future – timed entry tickets (book at least a few weeks in advance!).
• Sky Views – timed entry tickets or tickets + Edge Walk .
• Burj Khalifa – timed entry tickets (book well in advance!).
• Optional: Burj Lake boat ride , Dubai Aquarium .

Good to know: Some of these attractions can also be booked together, as a combo deal. For example, Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium ticket can save you about $20 per person. You can find more options and bundle deals here .

Here’s what your first day in Dubai could look like:

Museum of The Future

9.30 – 11.30 AM.

Start your day with one of the most popular attractions in Dubai – the Museum of the Future . The iconic building is one of the most remarkable landmarks of Dubai and the museum is the most sought-after ticket in the UAE.

A visit to this museum gives you a peek into the future of space travel and climate change, but also health, robotics, and AI. With lots of interactive displays, it’s an interesting place that the whole family will enjoy. But frankly, a lot depends on your expectations – some people love it, others say it’s over-hyped. Either way, it’s worth visiting even if just for the remarkable architecture.

PRO TIP: Book your tickets for this museum well in advance. They are usually sold out at least 2-3 weeks upfront. In addition, if you want to be able to pick a time slot as well, you really should book at least a month in advance.

Practical info: The museum is open from early morning and you will need a couple of hours for a visit. So ideally you start your day here and keep the afternoon for the Dubai Mall area. Booking the first time slot is also the best way to enjoy the exhibits without a big crowd!

12 – 1.30 PM

Next, take a metro to Dubai Mall. It’s just two metro stops from the Museum of the Future and as you exit the station, you’ll be right at the next place we recommend visiting – Sky Views. Alternatively, you can also take a taxi, just be sure to ask them to drop you off at the right place depending on what you decide to visit first (the Dubai Mall area is huge!).

Sky Views is an observatory at 720 ft (219.5 meters), offering some of the best 360° views of Downtown Dubai. From here, you have an unparalleled view of the iconic Burj Khalifa, which is located just nearby but also at a nice distance to admire it to the fullest.

In addition to the viewing platform, there is also a glass-bottom walkway , a bit like at Dubai Frame (more about it on day 7 of this itinerary).

Plus, all tickets include one go on the Sky Glass Slide , a short transparent tube that ‘floats’ at the side of the building. Don’t worry – it’s not nearly as exciting as it sounds, and frankly, I’m still not sure if I would queue for it for almost an hour again… But if it’s not too busy, be sure to give it a try. It’s fun!

Good to know: At an additional cost, you can get a ticket that includes the Sky Edge Walk . Attached with a harness, you walk on an open platform on the 52nd floor. This looks so cool and could easily become one of the best experiences you do in Dubai.

Since one of our kids has a serious fear of heights, I couldn’t try the Sky Edge yet (on the most recent trip, I was in Dubai alone with the children, so hanging on the side of a building while the kids waited inside wasn’t really an option ;)). But if you are up for it, give it a try – it looks amazing and everyone we talked to who did it was very enthusiastic.

Talking about heights, the same kid was totally ok with the glass slide, but he wouldn’t step on a glass-bottom walkway… Go figure…

Practical information: Book timed-entry tickets (with or without the Sky Edge Walk option) in advance. To be on the safe side, give yourself at least half an hour to get to Sky Views Observatory from the Museum of the Future. The metro ride is just 3 minutes, but you also need to walk to the metro and find your way around the Dubai Mall station, etc.

AFTERNOON + EVENING.

Next, time to visit the famous Dubai Mall . Inside, you will find plenty of places for lunch . From fine dining options and pricier restaurants overlooking Dubai Fountains to lower-budget fast-food chains, the choice is overwhelming.

The entrance to Burj Khalifa is also located here, at the lower level of the Mall. Depending on your preference for daytime or nighttime views and/or which time slot you can get for Burj Khalifa (more info below), you can explore the Dubai Mall first or after visiting the tower.

The Dubai Mall complex is so huge and has so much to offer that you could easily spend an entire day and still not see part of it! In addition to hundreds of stores and restaurants, you will also find all kinds of family-friendly attractions here, including an indoor ice skating rink, KidZania , MirrorMaze, cinemas, indoor playgrounds, and many others.

TIP: Do not miss the Dubai Mall Waterfall and Dubai Aquarium. Both can be admired for free, but if you want to visit the aquarium inside, you’ll need a ticket (and it’s really expensive for what it is and even worse if you didn’t think to get your tickets online…). So if you want to visit here, consider this combo ticket with Burj Khalifa (and book in advance!).

Good to know: Dubai Mall is huge and overwhelming for a first-time visitor. There are multiple levels, interconnected with countless staircases and elevators, plus multiple entrances and exits. So foresee plenty of time for everything and don’t plan too many attractions on the same day. Or do the things you absolutely want to do first and then see if you still have time and energy left for the rest.

Burj Khalifa

The highest building in the world, Burj Khalifa is the most popular tourist attraction in Dubai. While you can admire this iconic building from outside as much as you like, you will need a ticket to visit the ‘At the Top’ experience.

There are several options for which levels you can visit, and ticket prices vary depending on that, but also on the time of the day when you come.

The standard ticket includes levels 124 and 125 and gives you access to unparalleled 360° views over Dubai and the Arabian Gulf. You can also opt for this ticket that includes levels 124 and 125 as well as lunch or dinner at Rooftop, The Burj Club.

PRO TIP: We recommend getting this ticket that includes access to SKY Level 148 (in addition to standard levels). This ticket also gives you priority access to security and the elevator, which will save you a lot of time and stress. That’s worth a higher price in itself. It also includes an introductory tour with a guest ambassador and access to the lounge with snacks and hot drinks (except during the daytime in the month of Ramadan).

Practical information: The busiest and most expensive time to visit Burj Khalifa is ‘around’ sunset, which in practice means the entire late afternoon. For example, if the sunset is at 6.30 PM, ticket prices are higher between 3 PM and sunset time… But if you only enter at 6.30, the sun will long be gone by the time you get to the top, so I see no point in paying more for the time slots that are too close to the actual sunset time…

TIP: If you want to enjoy daytime views, the sunset, and night views, book a time slot about 1.5-2 hours before the sunset. That way, you should be able to get to the top in time, even if there are long queues. Alternatively, as already said before, get priority tickets which will save you a lot of queueing.

Dubai Fountains & Burj Lake Boat Ride

+-15-30 MINUTES.

No trip to Dubai would be complete without seeing the famous Dubai Fountains show at Burj Lake . You can find these fountains outside of the Dubai Mall, at the foot of Burj Khalifa.

While this area is always nice to explore and walk around, the best time to be here is in the evening, when you can see a musical show and the fountains dancing with the backdrop of Burj Khalifa.

The fountain schedule is as follows: daily at 1 PM and 1.30 PM, plus every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM. On Fridays, there is no show at 1 PM, but there is one at 2 PM. The shows are always slightly different and if you come here in the evening, you’ll likely catch a few of them.

TIP: In addition to seeing the fountains from land, you can also opt for a short scenic boat ride on Burj Lake . These boats also give you a front-row seat during a fountain show. It looks very touristy, but the kids wanted to do it on our recent trip and we all enjoyed it more than I expected. It’s quite affordable for Dubai standards and we all found that it was well worth it. It’s also a nice way to rest your legs a bit after all the sightseeing.

Spend the rest of your day/evening in the Dubai Mall area. Afterward, take a metro or a taxi back to your hotel.

Good to know: The taxi and Uber stands at the Dubai Mall are located at one of the underground levels, quite far from the Dubai Fountains, and are very confusing to find (plus, the taxi stand is not the same as the one for Uber).

So if you want to call it a day after visiting the fountains, simply walk to any public road on either side of Burj Lake and call a taxi from there – it’s so much easier! For example, there is a taxi drop-off point on the main road behind the Dubai Opera.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood – Dubai Creek – Traditional Souks – Dubai Desert.

Day 2 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Old Dubai – we recommend visiting with a guided tour .
• Dubai Desert tour – there are many options including various activities .

When you think of Dubai, you probably associate it with skyscrapers and all the iconic modern-day landmarks. However, no trip to Dubai would be complete without exploring its old town and the desert.

So on your second day, we recommend that you spend some time getting to know the more traditional side of Dubai.

Here is what your day could look like:

9.30 AM – 12.30 PM.

In the morning, take a couple of hours to explore the Old Dubai.

Start at the nicely restored Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood . Here, you can find several low-key museums and a few traditional restaurants, but the best thing to do is simply walk around the area. Here, you will find a completely different Dubai, as it used to look in the not-so-distant past.

Afterward, take a ride on a traditional Abra boat to the northern side of Dubai Creek. Here, you will find the two most popular traditional markets in Dubai: the Spice Souk and Gold Souk .

TIP: We recommend visiting this area with a local guide . Not only because it’s easier and you don’t need to plan anything, but it’s also a nice way to get to know more about the history of the UAE and learn about local traditions and customs. Plus, you can get some tips for haggling at the markets.

Good to know: There are many tours that visit the Old Town. They all cover pretty much the same places, including the boat ride. Most tours take about 3 hours, are very affordable, and have great reviews. The main difference is that some of them include some/more local food and drinks.

Frankly, it’s really hard to choose a tour. I wasted hours reading descriptions and reviews and was still none the wiser… So save yourself the trouble and just pick any highly-rated tour that suits your itinerary and you should be fine.

In the end, we chose this guided tour because it includes quite a lot of local food at one of the best traditional restaurants (in addition to the markets and other sights that all tours visit). But if you are less interested in food and more in the area, you can find plenty of cheaper tours as well. Most of them include at least one local snack too.

On our first visit to Dubai many years ago, we opted for a bit longer city tour that included a few other areas as well. The old town part of both these tours was very similar.

After visiting the old town, get back to your hotel and take some time to relax and enjoy the pool. Depending on the location of your hotel, which desert tour you booked, and the pick-up time for the tour, you should have a couple of hours of free time.

Good to know: When booking a tour that includes a pick-up/drop-off at your accommodation, keep in mind, that they will usually pick you up about 30-45 minutes before the official starting time. If you book tours online, they will usually reach out to you via WhatsApp either the evening before or in the morning.

TIP: Don’t eat too much for lunch if you book a desert tour that includes a BBQ dinner. There is so much food on these tours (and it’s delicious) – you won’t be hungry. Plus, if you opt for a dune-bashing in a jeep, it’s better that you haven’t eaten too much just before that…

Desert Safari

3 – 10 PM.

A visit to the desert is another experience that should be in any Dubai itinerary. No matter which tour you choose, you are in for a good time, but be sure to read tour descriptions so that you know what exactly to expect!

There are  many desert tour options , either about 4 or 7 hours. Unless you want to go on a hot air balloon (in which case it will likely be in the morning), we recommend looking into afternoon/evening tours that include a BBQ dinner.

On these longer tours, there is usually one main activity, such as a 4×4 dune safari in a jeep, a quad bike ride, or a camel ride. The rest of the time is spent in a Bedouin camp where you can find all kinds of different experiences (sandboarding, taking pictures with falcons or camels, traditional dance shows, henna painting, etc.) which are all included with the tour.

The food on these tours is usually very good and plentiful. Water is included and most of the time, soft drinks and local warm beverages are included as well.

Our experience:  We have been on two different desert tours in Dubai (on different trips). They were both evening tours including dinner, had very similar itineraries, and were both very good. The main activity on  the first tour we did was dune bashing in a jeep. Other activities included sandboarding, a very short camel ride, a traditional Tanoura dance show, etc.

On a recent trip, we opted for  this highly-rated tour . The main activity this time was a 45-minute camel ride. Other activities included taking pictures with falcons, henna tattoos, shisha pipe, traditional dance shows, a fire show, etc.

Good to know: Just like with the old town tours, there are so many desert tour options that it can be overwhelming to pick one. First, decide what you want to do – for example, quad biking , a camel ride , etc. Then, read the description so that you know what’s included. For example, many tours include a short camel ride (for a picture), but only very few do a longer trek through the desert.

In general, all these tours are quite similar, and – at least in our experience – very good. Just be sure you know what you are booking so that you don’t end up on a quad bike while you were expecting to sit on a camel…

Burj Al Arab – Souk Madinat Jumeirah – The Palm – JBR Beach – Dubai Marina.

Day 3 – some ideas for activities on this day:

• Inside tour or a Royal Suites tour + gold cappuccino .
• The View at The Palm Observatory
• Sightseeing Helicopter Ride
• Luxury Yacht Sightseeing Tour .
• Zip Line Across Marina .
• Marina E-scooter Tour .

On your third day in Dubai, we recommend visiting the area around Burj Al Arab, The Palm, and Dubai Marina and potentially also the nearby JBR Beach .

If you just walk around without visiting many attractions, then you can easily see all these places in a day. If, however, you opt for any of the activities, you will have to adjust your itinerary depending on the place/time of whatever you decide to do.

There are a lot of attractions that you can choose from on this day, but none of them are ‘must-do’. So a lot depends on your interests and budget. Also, don’t book too many different activities at different locations for the same day, and keep traffic in mind.

Here is what your third day in Dubai could look like:

Burj Al Arab & Souk Madinat Jumeirah

+-10 AM – 1 PM.

The sail-shaped Burj Al Arab is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Dubai. It’s renowned as one of the world’s most luxurious hotels with lavish interiors and extravagant experiences.

You can just see the hotel from the outside, or you can also book a tour of the interior . If you want to get a taste of true luxury, upgrade to this luxury tour which includes their world-famous gold cappuccino and a visit to the 25th floor where you can see the Royal Suites.

Set against the backdrop of the Burj Al Arab, Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a bustling souk with traditional Middle Eastern charm. This area also has some picturesque waterways offering nice views of the Burj Al Arab.

Good to know: Depending on what you decide to do in this area, you can visit both places in about half an hour. If you book one of the tours, you’ll need at least 2 hours. In that case, we recommend booking the earliest tour, at 10 AM, and having lunch at the souk.

+- 1.30 – 3 PM.

The Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island shaped like a giant palm tree. Stretching into the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, The Palm is connected to the mainland with bridges and tunnels. The island is home to a large number of luxurious hotels and opulent residences.

One of the most famous attractions here is Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis Hotel, but since you need at least a day for it, we recommend visiting the water park separately – see day 6 of our itinerary.

On this day, I would just focus on sightseeing. The best place to be is The View at The Palm Observatory from where you can enjoy nice 360° views including a good overview of this unique island. Alternatively, for even better aerial views, you can also opt for a sightseeing tour by helicopter .

If you are looking for nice views and want to relax at the pool, you could also check out the Aura Skypool . Keep in mind that no kids are allowed and that you will need to reserve a specific time slot in advance.

Good to know: Also here, the timing will depend on the activities you choose to do. If you just visit The Palm Observatory (and prebook timed entry tickets in advance!), 1 – 1.5 hours should be sufficient. A helicopter tour takes less time and is better organized, but you also need to arrive a bit earlier, etc. so to be on the safe side, I’d plan about an hour as well.

Dubai Marina

LATE AFTERNOON & EVENING.

Next, head to Dubai Marina , just 10 minutes drive from The Palm. Or – if you want to make the most out of your day – visit Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR Beach) first and then the Marina after that (the two areas are just next to each other).

The JBR – Marina Beach has a very nice waterfront area with access to a public beach and many cafes and restaurants. In the distance, you can also see the Dubai Eye (Ain Dubai), the world’s largest Ferris wheel. However, it’s been closed for years. The area is nice, but since it’s on a separate ‘island’, you would need quite a lot of extra time to visit there.

Dubai Marina is one of the nicest walkable areas to explore in Dubai. There is not one specific place that you ‘must’ see here and the best thing is to simply walk around along the Marina Walk (see our map for details). On the way, you can also visit the Marina Mall . Alternatively, consider joining a guided e-scooter tour – it’s a great way to see a lot of this vast area without having to walk.

In addition, there are quite a lot of activities that you can do at Dubai Marina. The most popular are luxury yacht sightseeing tours . If you are interested in water sports, you can go jet skiing or parasailing . Adrenaline seekers will love the zip line across the Marina …

TIP: Dubai Marina is also very nice in the evening. The atmosphere is great, there are lots of good restaurants, etc. So no matter how you plan this day of your Dubai itinerary, I recommend that you end it at the Marina. Scenic boat cruises in the dark are also really great, offering wonderful night-time views of the Marina skyline.

Good to know: We recommend at least an hour or two for the Marina Walk. In addition, boat tours in this area are really worth your time and some of them can take 2-3 hours. All in all, I would plan a good half a day in this area.

Day 4 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Abu Dhabi day tour – there are tons of options .

No trip to Dubai would be complete without visiting Abu Dhabi , the capital city of the UAE. It’s about 1.5- 2 hours drive from Dubai, so doable as a day trip.

Just to be clear – there is a lot more to see and do in Abu Dhabi than you could possibly see in a day.

Half a day tour is a good option if you are really short on time and just want to visit the main landmark – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. But with a week in Dubai, you could definitely spare a day. So we recommend taking a full-day tour to Abu Dhabi. That way, you can see several other places and get a much better idea of what Abu Dhabi is like.

Abu Dhabi Day Trip

Our experience: We booked this highly-rated day tour and I can highly recommend it. It’s one of the most complete Abu Dhabi tours I could find.

It includes a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Etihad Towers observation deck, and the Royal Palace, Qasr Al Watan.

For more information, the best tour options, and tips for planning a day trip to Abu Dhabi, please see our detailed guide via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Abu Dhabi Day Tour From Dubai

Days 1-4 of our recommended Dubai itinerary include most of the must-sees. But there are quite a few other attractions that are also very popular and considered ‘must do’. However, I find that a lot depends on who you are traveling with, what your interests are, and also on your budget.

Anyway, to help you plan your time, we highlight several of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai on days 5-7 of this itinerary. We grouped them taking into account their location so that you can make the most out of your time. Take a look below!

Day 5 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Dubai Miracle Garden – ticket .
• Global Village – tickets .
• Optional: Dubai Butterfly Garden .
• Alternative for families: IMG Worlds of Adventure .

Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village are located very close to each other and can be easily visited on the same day/evening. There are also tours/private transfers that can bring you to both places (in about 6 hours).

Good to know: The Miracle Garden is open from 9 AM until 9 PM (11 PM on weekends) so could be visited at any time. However, Global Village is only open from 4 PM (6 PM during Ramadan) until midnight (1 AM on weekends). Furthermore, Tuesdays are reserved for families and women.

TIP: You could spend a good part of this day at the pool/beach and only do sightseeing in the late afternoon/evening. Or, if you absolutely want to make the most out of your time, you could also visit the Dubai Butterfly Garden which is located just next to Miracle Garden.

Alternatively, families might enjoy a visit to IMG Worlds of Adventure , one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world. The tickets are pricey so if you opt for this, you’ll likely want to spend the whole day here.

Miracle Garden

+- 1-2 HOURS.

Miracle Garden Dubai is a huge floral wonderland with over 150 million flowers. It boasts a breathtaking array of meticulously crafted floral displays, sculptures, castles, and all kinds of structures, all adorned with millions – yes, millions – of blooming flowers.

Some of their sculptures have won various Guinness World Records. You probably already get the vibe in the UAE – everything is big, bigger, the biggest… This impressive garden is no exception. They even have a flowery version of the Emirates A380 airbus, covered in more than 500,000 fresh flowers and plants. 

However, remember that you are in the middle of a desert so it’s difficult to keep most plants alive in a climate like this. That’s probably the reason why the overwhelming majority of flowers are petunias, in just a few different colors.

Good to know: Book tickets in advance and count about 1-2 hours for a visit here. The morning hours are the quietest, but if you want to visit Global Village as well, then it’s best to come in the afternoon and visit both places together.

Global Village

+- 3-4 HOURS.

Global Village Dubai offers an immersive cultural experience taking you on a journey ‘around the world’. The name pretty much says it all – it’s a place where you can experience different cultures while exploring pavilions, each representing another country.

Over 90 countries are represented, showcasing their unique heritage, traditions, products, and traditional foods. From sampling diverse cuisines to shopping for handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs from around the globe, there’s something for everyone. In addition, they also have live performances, cultural shows, carnival rides, etc.

Good to know: Global Village is one of the most affordable attractions in Dubai and regular tickets cost just a few bucks. However, this is just a ticket to get inside and you’ll have to pay extra for most of the attractions – a bit like visiting a country fair. Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours here.

TIP: Global Village is one of the most visited attractions in Dubai, popular with locals as well as international tourists. So avoid weekends and try to be at the entrance a bit before it opens because it quickly fills up. Friday and Saturday evenings can get crazy busy.

Day 6 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Atlantis Aquaventure – various ticket options .
• Wild Wadi – entry ticket .
• Dubai LEGOLAND – water park or theme park .

Alternative ideas for this day:

• Snorkeling day trip to Fujairah .
• Al Ain ‘Garden City’ day trip .
• Half-day camel trekking .
• Half-day falconry safari .

If you have a week in Dubai, we highly recommend visiting at least one of the water parks, especially if you are traveling with children or teenagers and there’s only that much sightseeing they can handle in the hot desert climate.

But no worries if you are not interested in spending a day on water slides, there are tons of other amazing things to do in and near Dubai. In that case, see our alternative suggestions above . For more info about waterparks – see below.

Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark & Lost Chambers Aquarium

There are several water parks in Dubai. By far the best and most popular is Aquaventure at Atlantis The Palm , the biggest water park in the world. With over 100 rides and attractions, Aquaventure has something to offer for the whole family. You can also meet dolphins and sea lions, and enjoy all kinds of water sports. In addition, you can visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium which is located just near the water park entrance.

Wild Wadi and LEGOLAND Water Park are also nice water parks. They are much smaller, with about 30 rides and attractions at Wild Wadi and about 20 at LEGOLAND.

These water parks are nice for families with younger kids and are incomparably less busy than Aquaventure. But if you want to experience the very best waterpark in Dubai, Aquaventure wins every time.

Good to know: You can spend the entire day at any of these water parks.

PRO TIP: Atlantis Aquaventure tickets are cheaper if booked online and over a week in advance. We recommend a combo ticket that includes entry to the Lost Chambers Aquarium (it’s open late in the evening so you can easily visit after you leave the water park). For more tips and helpful information for your visit, see our detailed guide via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

Day 7 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Dubai Frame – timed-entry tickets .
• AYA Universe – timed-entry tickets .
• Optional: iFly Dubai and/or Green Planet Indoor Rainforest .

On the last day of this itinerary, I want to highlight some additional experiences that we personally really enjoyed on a recent trip to Dubai. They are located not too far from each other in the northern part of the city (not too far from the airport) and could be done on the same day.

If you want to take it easy on your last day in Dubai, you could also just visit one or two of these attractions and spend the rest of the time chilling by the pool.

The two places that we recommend the most are Dubai Frame and AYA Universe. Our kids also LOVED iFly Dubai , but it’s located quite a bit further away and is probably also not for everyone’s interests. The Green Planet indoor rainforest is also amazing (and definitely not just for kids). You can find more info about each of these below.

Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame cannot be missed (quite literally). You will see this architectural landmark towering in the city skyline when driving around the city and from many other places. But if you want to visit it, you’ll need to allocate a few hours.

Looking like a gigantic picture frame, this iconic structure consists of two vertical towers connected by a glass-bottomed bridge. From its observation deck, you can enjoy panoramic 360° views of the city’s evolving skyline on one side and the historical old town on the other.

The views are ok but – in our opinion – not as good as from the other observation platforms which we mentioned earlier in this itinerary. Still, we found a visit here quite worth it, because the building itself is truly remarkable.

Good to know: Depending on how busy it is, you’ll need 1-2 hours for a visit. Be sure to book tickets online or you may not be able to enter at all (we saw a few disappointed families turned away at the entrance). Even with timed tickets, the queues are still long, especially in the afternoon. So if you want to visit without wasting too much time, I recommend booking an early morning time slot.

AYA Universe

One of the more recent attractions in Dubai, we stumbled upon AYA Universe by coincidence. And so glad we decided to visit because it became one of our favorite experiences in the city!

It’s difficult to describe this unique attraction. It’s like stepping into a dreamy world with captivating light displays and mesmerizing high-tech experiences. If anything, I could compare it to the worlds you see in Avatar movies. A colorful, fairytale-like universe that guarantees lots of positive emotions. Recommended!

AYA Universe is located inside WAFI City Mall. The interior of this shopping center is inspired by an Egyptian theme and is quite interesting to see as well.

Good to know: Count about 45 minutes for a visit here, an hour if you also want to walk around the Mall (it’s very small compared to most others in Dubai). Book your tickets online if you want to be able to visit AYA Universe at a specific time slot. There were just a few people when we arrived here in the morning but quickly got much busier. It’s a rather small facility and I think they cap the number of visitors that are allowed inside at the same time.

iFly Dubai is an indoor skydiving center located in Mirdif City Centre Mall. This is your chance to experience skydiving in a safe and controlled environment. Btw, they have the real thing in Dubai too – see skydiving tours here .

Before you start, you get a short training session explaining some basic techniques. The regular experience includes two 1-minute flights. It may not sound like much, but they say that when you leap from a plane when actually skydiving, the free-fall time is even shorter than a minute.

Good to know: They work with time slots and allow about 10 people per half an hour, so it’s best to book in advance . iFly Dubai says that it’s suitable for all ages. Most people in our group were children and teens, but also a few adults. Count about an hour for the whole experience.

Despite the name, City Centre Mirdif Mall is not located in the center at all. It’s actually quite a drive from most other attractions in Dubai (about 15-20 minutes from Dubai Frame or AYA Universe). This shopping center is quite big and has many nice restaurants, so you can also have lunch here.

The Green Planet

+- 2 HOURS.

The Green Planet is an indoor rainforest featuring several thousand tropical plants and a variety of birds and animals freely roaming inside. If you’ve ever been to a rainforest in Costa Rica , the plants and the animals you can see here are similar.

The Green Planet has several sloths, squirrel monkeys, and all kinds of reptiles. You can also visit a bat cave, see all kinds of colorful birds, and admire the world’s largest man-made and life-sustaining tree.

It’s particularly nice for families with children but is very enjoyable for adults as well. Recommended.

Good to know: The Green Planet is located next to the City Walk Mall in the center, not far from the Dubai Mall area. You can get tickets online . Plan about 2 hours for a visit. The Green Planet closes at 6 PM (much earlier than most other attractions), so keep this in mind when deciding which places to visit on this day and in which order.

So, this sums up our recommended Dubai itinerary. As you can see, there’s A LOT to experience in Dubai and a week will fly by before you know it.

The nice thing about planning a trip to Dubai is that it has such a wide variety of activities and attractions allowing you to personalize your trip and find something that everyone in your group/family will enjoy.

I hope that our suggested itinerary gives you some inspiration on what to see and do in Dubai and helps you plan a perfect holiday.

READ ALSO: What to Wear in Dubai

More info & travel inspiration for Dubai:

• Dubai Travel Tips
• How Expensive is Dubai
• Dubai Public Transport
• Dubai in February
• Best Things to Do in Dubai
• Best Tours in Dubai
• Abu Dhabi Tour from Dubai
• Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai
• Interesting Facts About Dubai

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Dubai, the largest and most populous city in the UAE , is the embodiment of dreams turning into reality and the favourite destination for many travellers. Synonymous with tall ultramodern skyscrapers juxtaposed with charming heritage, Dubai appeals to the traveller’s senses. From luxury shopping to imposing desert landscapes, from world famous restaurants and hotels to theme parks with the most thrilling rides, a Dubai trip has something to suit every kind of traveller. Whether you are looking for a Dubai honeymoon package, a family holiday or a quick getaway with friends, the various Dubai attractions will be sure to leave you spellbound.

Geographically, Dubai is located in the Middle East on the south-east coast of the Persian Gulf. It is the capital of the Emirate of Dubai, one of the seven that make up the United Arab Emirates. The currency of  Dubai is UAE Dihram - AED. This global city is a major aviation and financial hub. Dubai has gradually transitioned into a global icon of engineering and construction with the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa marking the skyline of the city. Dubai tourism is greatly promoted by the government; its ancient and modern attractions never fail to lure in tourists all around the year.    

Best time to visit Dubai

Dubai weather is classified into hot and hotter with dry desert winds. If you are planning a Dubai trip, it is best to avoid the dry and hotter months of April to September. The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months of November to March, Dubai weather in november when the skies above are clear blue and the beach below sports wonderful weather. Sun seekers and beach lovers can enjoy the sunny side of Dubai winters, while the shoppers will love the Dubai Shopping Festival that is usually held from December to February.

Expect some rainfall from January to March, which is a part of the Dubai climate for these months. During the summer months of April to October, you can escape the crowds and also find a hotel room with ease. Dubai hotels will be relatively cheap in these months, since this is the summer season, although everywhere indoors will be comfortably air-conditioned. If you are looking for cheap Dubai tour packages, just book the best Dubai holiday packages that MakeMyTrip rolls out for this off-season period for Dubai tourism.

How to reach Dubai

The best way to reach Dubai is via flight. Flights to Dubai link the Emirate with over 200 world destinations. You can land directly at the Dubai International Airport, the largest airport in the UAE and one of the busiest airports in the world. Another way to reach Dubai by air is via the Sharjah International Airport and transfer to Dubai by road on a taxi or bus service.

If you are travelling to Dubai from one of the other cities of the Emirates, you can use the Emirates Express bus services to Dubai. These buses connect Dubai with Sharjah, Abu Dhabi etc.

If you have booked your Dubai trip from India, then you can fly to Dubai from any of the major Indian cities. Flights to Dubai from India are operated by multiple airlines like Emirates, Air India, Air India Express, SpiceJet, Indigo and Fly Dubai among others. Air Arabia operates flights from India to Sharjah. A non-stop Delhi to Dubai flight can be booked on SpiceJet, Indigo, Fly Dubai, Air India, Air India Express, Emirates and Hahn Air, while direct flights to Dubai from Bangalore are operated by Indigo and Emirates. Similarly, non-stop flights to Dubai from Mumbai are available on nearly all airlines – SpiceJet, Indigo, Fly Dubai, Air India, Air India Express, Emirates, and Hahn Air.  All the major Indian cities are similarly connected to Dubai through these hubs.

With so many flights to Dubai from India, booking Dubai holiday packages from India is as simple as logging on to the MakeMyTrip website! Browse MakeMyTrip to explore the best of Dubai’s tourist places and book from a range of Dubai trip packages. If you are on your honeymoon, there is a ready selection of Dubai honeymoon packages with the best hotels and inclusions picked for you.

Plan your Dubai getaway with MakeMyTrip! Easily convert AED to INR for our holiday packages. Explore UAE hassle-free with our convenient currency conversion feature. Book now and embark on your dream trip!

Places to visit in Dubai

Dubai is like a glittering oasis in a desert landscape. When you are approaching by road, the towering Burj Khalifa pierces the skyline, slowly guiding you into the city. As you approach Dubai via air, a shimmering display of the glass buildings towering up from the ground below will take your breath away. Enjoy the visual delights as the top Dubai attractions come into sight as your plane eases in for the airport. The Burj Khalifa stands tall like a giant obelisk, while the Burj Al Arab further away resembles a masted ship ready to set off to sail. The artificially reclaimed lands of Dubai Palm Islands and the World Islands will leave you awed.  

To allow you to make the most of your Dubai trip, here is our recommended list of unmissable places to visit in Dubai

• Burj Khalifa

We recommend that you start your Dubai tour with the tallest free-standing man-made structure at 828m high, the Burj Khalifa. You can visit this marvel of engineering either during the day, or wait till evening for its light shows to begin. Take the world’s fastest double-deck elevators to go up to the Burj Khalifa Observation Deck on Level 124 or right up till Level 148 to discover Dubai with a stunning overview of the cityscape. The Burj Khalifa observation deck is the highest outdoor observation deck in the world. This is by far the leader amongst all Dubai attractions, popular with travellers of all kinds.

Located very close to the Burj Khalifa , the Dubai Mall is one of the most popular places to visit in Dubai. This is the second-largest shopping mall in the world by total land area, and is also the home of the famous Dubai Shopping Festival. Apart from being able to spend hours shopping for every conceivable brand in over 1200 stores, shoppers can also spend time here at an ice skating rink, a cinema theatre, a theme park, aquarium and more.

Dubai Aquarium

Located within the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium is a commonly included part of a Dubai city tour especially for families. The world’s largest suspended aquarium, it holds over 140 species of aquatic animals including rays and sharks. Walk through the 48m long tunnel that will give you a stroll beneath the largest collection of sand tiger sharks in the world. With over 33,000 aquatic animals, sand tiger sharks and sting rays swimming above you, the view will simply astound you. Visitors can also visit the Underwater Zoo on a higher level in the same mall, where in three different ecosystems, a variety of creatures like Piranha, Penguin, Otters, African Crocodile, and Lionfish etc. This is one of the Dubai tourist places that is likely to appeal to all members of the family.

Ferrari World

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a theme park located on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, a short drive away from Dubai. A visit to Ferrari World is high up on the list of many travellers booking Dubai holidays. You can book this activity as a part of your Dubai package from MakeMyTrip. Visitors can enjoy the range of 37 rides and shows at Ferrari World, including the world’s fastest roller coaster, the Formula Rossa. There are plenty of things for young kids to do at Ferrari World too, in areas like the Adventureland and the Car Wash. 

Dubai Frame 

The latest amongst the list of Dubai tourist places is the Dubai Frame, located within the Zabeel Park. This monument is shaped like a giant ornate picture frame, and provides an insight into the past, present and future idea of Dubai. While the Old Dubai gallery shares information about Dubai’s past through interactive displays and 3D technology, at the Sky Deck level the present Dubai view is shown through a panoramic viewing gallery enhanced by various augmented reality effects. The Future Dubai gallery uses a combination of specially produced audio and video effects to create an image of a possible future Dubai. The entire visit is quite a unique experience.

Dubai Parks and Resorts

Dubai Parks and Resorts is the largest integrated theme park and leisure destination within the Middle East. This is fast becoming an essential inclusion for Dubai packages, especially if you are travelling to Dubai with family. The various theme parks here include - Motiongate Dubai , a Hollywood-themed amusement park; Bollywood Parks Dubai , which is the world’s first Bollywood-themed park and has 5 different zones; Legoland with its Lego-themed rides, shows and attractions perfect for families with younger children; and the Legoland Waterpark which is the world’s only waterpark designed especially for children aged 2 to 12 year old and their families. A visit to Motiongate Dubai or any of the other parks within Dubai Parks and Resorts can be pre-arranged as a part of MakeMyTrip’s Dubai holiday packages.

Atlantis the Palm - Aquaventure & Lost Chambers 

Atlantis the Palm is a luxury hotel on the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai and undoubtedly one of the most coveted places in Dubai to stay in. While this luxury Dubai hotel would be a bucket list place to stay for many, even if you are not staying at the Atlantis Dubai you can spend time here at the Atlantis waterpark. The Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark offers over 30 thrilling water slides and attractions, interconnected river rides, cownose ray feeding, underwater adventures, splash zones for younger children. The waterpark even has a private beach for the benefit of visitors. You can combine your Aquaventure trip with a visit to the Lost Chambers Aquarium , which is the largest aquarium in the UAE with over 65,000 marine animals displayed here. Apart from viewing the exhibits, visitors can also participate in the daily feeding shows and go diving or snorkelling among the fish.  

Dubai Fountain

Enjoy the evening of your visit to the Dubai Mall by witnessing the Dubai Fountain display with light and water jets shooting up as high as 150m in synchronous patterns. A water dance doesn’t get better than this.  This is the next level of a water fountain!

What to eat in Dubai

From international cafes to restaurants specializing in Emirati cuisines to celebrity chefs cooking up a storm every day, there is a wide-array of culinary options to choose from in Dubai. Eat out at celebrity restaurants or enjoy a meal in a family friendly and instagrammable location.

Here are some tips on the best food in Dubai and how to enjoy it:

Street food: If you enjoy non vegetarian food, try some of the street food in Dubai’s Bur Dubai or Deira areas. Dubai’s traditional pizza, called Manousheh , is a delicious flatbread topped with salty Akkawi cheese, zaatar herbs and olive oil. Best had for breakfast, it comes along with a creamy labneh, jam, minced lamb and eggs. This is probably the best street food in Dubai! If you like spice, you can also try the Lahem Bl Ajin , Lebanese bread with spiced ground meat topping also known as “Arabian pizza”.

Traditional specialties: The famous Chelo Kebab is a combination of kebabs served with saffron-scented basmati rice, with a pat of butter added on. Likewise, Shish Tawook is a kebab served in traditional style and sandwiched in bread, while Al Machboos is a popular dish of rice and meat cooked together in one pot. Al Harees is a dish saved up for weddings, Ramadan and Eid in Dubai. Meat and wheat are baked together into a salty delight; you can’t stop at one.

Sweet delights: While on your Dubai trip, try some of the local sugary concoctions such as Luqaimat , a deep fried Ramadan special dumpling made of milk, sugar, flour, butter, cardamom and saffron. You can also try the Kanafeh , a traditional dessert made of rose syrup and sweet cream cheese and topped with chopped pistachios.

Vegetarian food in Dubai: Apart from Indian food, you can also try some local vegetarian specialties in Dubai, such as Tabbouleh which is made from tomatoes, green onions, cucumber and seasoned with lemon and fresh mint, or the Fattoush salad made with fried or toasted Pita bread pieces complemented with a lemon dressings and greens. Most of the hotels offered in MakeMyTrip’s Dubai packages will also arrange vegetarian food if requested in advance.

Indian restaurants in Dubai: Dubai has a large number of Indian restaurants to suit all budgets. Some of the more famous ones include Bombay Brasserie, Khyber, Indego by Vineet, Chutney’s, Gazebo, Mint Leaf, Chor Bazaar, etc.

If you are in for some experimenting, you can try a variety of street food in Deira, explore beachside eateries at Kite Beach, or enjoy a lavish dinner at a rooftop restaurant in Dubai Marina. With people of many different nationalities residing in Dubai, adding to its cuisines, there are a wide variety of flavours to enjoy here.

Fun things to do in Dubai

The regular Dubai sightseeing covers the most popular places to visit in Dubai through a half-day or full-day Dubai city tour. For something more, there are a number of interesting and fun things to do in Dubai for travellers of all kinds.

Desert Safari with BBQ dinner

Add a thrilling element to your Dubai holiday package with a memorable Desert Safari along with your friends and family. Travel out from Dubai to the golden dunes outside the city, in a 4X4 vehicle with an experienced driver. Enjoy an adrenalin-pumping off-road dune bashing session of 30 to 40 minutes, and take gorgeous pictures of the sunset. Continue to a desert camp where you will enjoy a delicious barbecue dinner along with musical entertainment under the stars. 

Ski Dubai 

Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort in the Mid-East, is located inside the Mall of the Emirates, one of the most famous places in Dubai. This is the perfect place to visit in Dubai for a day of fun with your family. No matter what the weather outside is, Ski Dubai will always be a fantastic sub-zero winter wonderland covered with snow! Here, you can try skiing and snowboarding at 5 different slopes for varying levels of expertise. Ski Dubai also offers classes with professional instructors. There is also a 4500 sq. m. Snow Park, with activities like tobogganing, tubing, zorbing, wall climbing, bob sled rides, and snow play zones. Children will love the Penguin Colony at Ski Dubai, where they can meet King and Gentoo Snow Penguins.

Dhow Marina Cruise

The Dhow cruise is one of the most popular things to do in Dubai for most travellers visiting for the first time. The Dubai Marina, the world’s largest man-made marina, is a peaceful canal lined with famous skyscrapers like the Dubai Marina Mall and the Burj Al Arab. Sailing on the canal on a traditional wooden boat called “Dhow” is a wonderful experience. You will not only enjoy the boat cruise, but also get a great perspective of the wondrous architecture of the area from the boat accompanied by the sound of traditional music in the background. Depending on your preference, you can book a Dhow Cruise with Dinner, or a Sunset Dhow Cruise, or just a regular daytime cruise. Whichever Dhow Marina Cruise you book for your Dubai trip, you are sure to have a great experience!

This almost did not need to be said. Dubai and shopping go hand in hand! Whether you prefer to shop at the upscale Dubai malls such as the Dubai Mall, the Mall of the Emirates, and the Mercato Mall, go bargain hunting at the Dubai Outlet Mall, or stock up on jewellery at the Gold Souk Dubai, Dubai has a lot to offer the serious shopper. If you are looking for traditional products like textiles, ceramics, handicrafts, spices and other souvenirs to bring back from your Dubai holiday, we highly recommend a visit to Meena Bazaar in the Bur Dubai area. This is one of Dubai’s famous places for traditional shopping. If you are a really committed shopper, do consider booking your Dubai trip package to coincide with the Dubai Shopping Festival dates.

Party with a scenic view

Enjoy an evening out in Dubai with your friends and loved ones. We recommend an evening at Shimmers , one of Dubai’s famous places for a special meal. This beachside restaurant in Palm Jumeirah is known for its beautiful location and enchanting views of the Burj Al Arab. Enjoy authentic Greek cuisine in a casual yet intimate atmosphere. This is an ideal inclusion in a Dubai honeymoon package. You can also head to the Lounge at the Armani Hotel for an aperitif or nightcap in quiet luxury, enjoying an unforgettable view of the Dubai Fountain.

Jumeirah Beach Walk

Jumeirah Beach is very upscale and pleasant part of Dubai. The Walk at Jumeirah Beach is a popular open-air hangout full of fashion boutiques, retail stores, cafes and restaurants. Visitors can enjoy the incredible views of the water and the pleasant sea breeze, shop for unique handicrafts and designer products, and enjoy the buzzing vibe of this extremely chic walkway. This place is also where you are likely to see some of the best cars in the world! It is especially popular at night.

Here’s one for the adrenalin junkies. Skydiving in Dubai promises an opportunity to experience freefall right over the unique Palm Jumeirah landscape, or if you prefer it, over the desert outside the city. Experienced instructors guide you every step of the way, so that even beginners can try their first skydive in Dubai. Both tandem and solo skydives are available. It is a heavenly experience worth every second. A child-friendly setting to get a sense of skydiving is available at iFly Dubai , a 10m acrylic glass tunnel for an indoor skydiving simulation experience at Mirdif City Centre.

The 5 most Instagram-worthy luxury experiences in Dubai

Dubai’s high-flying lifestyle is tempting in many ways, with top-of-the-world experiences to explore. Splash out on these unique things to do in Dubai: 

Gyrocopter Ride:   If you wish to take a bird’s eye view of Dubai’s glittering skyline and cityscape, try the gyrocopter experience. This is a small private aircraft, rather like a helicopter, that seats two people and operates from the Dubai Marina. Along with your pilot, you will fly over the Dubai Marina, the Palm Jumeirah, and past the Burj Al Arab. Enjoy the smooth 20 minute ride, with views of the brilliant blue ocean and the glittering skyscrapers of the city. Truly an experience for the ‘gram!

Stretch Limousine Ride:  Feel on top of the world with a luxury ride around Dubai in a gorgeous Stretch Limousine with your own private chauffeur. The one hour drive around Dubai will take you past the city’s highlights like the Burj Al Arab, the Burj Khalifa and the upscale Mall of the Emirates. Enjoy riding around in your luxury vehicle and catching the eye of everybody you pass, as you sit back and relax in your comfy leather seats. This is the perfect insta-worthy experience to book on your Dubai trip if you wish to impress someone special or even plan a proposal!

Chopper Ride:  Make your Dubai trip a memorable one by adding a Helicopter Tour to your Dubai sightseeing. You will take off from the Jumeirah Heliport and fly past iconic sights such as the Burj Khalifa and various other Dubai skyscrapers. Depending on the duration of the flight you have chosen, you will also be able to see sights like the Palm Jumeirah, the Jumeirah coastline, Dubai Canal, Burj Al Arab, Port Rashid, etc. A Helicopter tour of Dubai is certainly a premium add-on to your luxury Dubai holiday.

Private Yacht Ride:  If you prefer being on the water than in the air, we recommend hiring a luxury yacht for a private tour of 2 hours duration. The yacht can take a maximum of 6 persons, so it is great for a family or small group. Enjoy zipping around in your private yacht, relaxing in comfort and watching the skyline as you sip on water and soft drinks. Enjoy the different view of famous places in Dubai like the Atlantis Palm hotel and the Burj Al Arab from the water.

Full-Day Musandam Dibba Tour:  Musandam in Oman is also called the “Norway of Arabia” due to its stunning coastline. This spectacular region, with its beautiful Arabian Sea coast and spectacular Hajar mountain ranges, is just a two-hour drive away from Dubai but offers a complete contrast from Dubai’s modern urban cityscape. Drive to Musandam Dibba and board a traditional Dhow for a cruise on the sparkling waters. You can choose to just relax and enjoy the views, or go swimming and snorkelling in the clear water. The tour to Musandam Dibba can be a highlight of your Dubai package, but remember to prebook it, since it must be blocked in advance along with passport details. You can add this to your Dubai honeymoon package as well.

The list of things to do in Dubai is endless, and very soon you will realise that a single Dubai trip is not enough to fully explore this city of gold. Luckily, the Dubai ticket price for a flight from India is quite attractive especially if booked together with a package, so multiple Dubai holidays are a definite option! We do hope that this Dubai guide will help you pick your favourite places to visit in Dubai for your first Dubai trip. MakeMyTrip has a varied range of Dubai packages from Delhi, Mumbai, and all other major airports of India. So go ahead and start shortlisting those Dubai packages!

A vacation in the glittering city of Dubai will surely leave you spellbound, whether it’s a family holiday, a honeymoon trip, or a tour with friends. Dubai astonishes you with some of the biggest constructions in the world. State-of-the-art skyscrapers, luxurious shopping hubs, bustling nightlife, extravagant activities- the city has many ways to keep you entertained during your Dubai holidays . Take advantage of the extensive and customisable Dubai package from MakeMyTrip and plan your holiday as per your preference. Take your trip to next level and experience the luxurious lifestyle of Dubai with add-on activities in your Dubai package like a private yacht ride, a stretch limousine ride with a private chauffeur or a gyrocopter ride. Add a chopper ride to your sightseeing itinerary and make your vacation memorable. Book a Dubai package and witness the man-made marvel, world’s tallest building - the Burj Khalifa. Visit Dubai Aquarium, the world’s largest suspended aquarium, and treat yourself to a walk amidst an array of aquatic life. Have a shopping experience to remember in the world’s second largest shopping mall, the Dubai Mall. Experience that adrenaline rush with sky-diving in your Dubai package . Experience a gastronomic delight during your Dubai holidays with a variety of delicacies, satisfying the taste buds of both vegetarians and non-vegetarians. Your Dubai trip would not just be a vacation, but a lifetime experience of an ultramodern life and a peek into the future. So, wait no more and book your Dubai package now!

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Ans. If you want your Dubai travel plans to be hassle-free, you must also apply for its visa beforehand. A 30-day Dubai visa costs around AED 330 per person which is approximately ₹ 7,350. On the other hand, a 90-day visa would cost nearly AED 650 per person i.e., ₹ 14,500. Passport with a validity of at least six months with 2 minimum blank pages is also mandatory to visit Dubai from India.

Ans. You can cover all the main attractions of Dubai in 5 days. Here is a suggested plan for your Dubai trip in 5 days, giving a good mix of leisure and sightseeing: 

Day 1: Arrive in Dubai by flight; relax and go for a Dhow Cruise with Dinner in the evening. 

Day 2: Morning city tour of Dubai and shopping at Dragon Mart; evening Desert safari with BBQ dinner. 

Day 3: Visit the Burj Khalifa’s 124th Floor, followed by the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. 

Day 4: Tour of Ferrari World and Abu Dhabi. 

Day 5: Morning shopping and leave for the airport!

Ans. Most people prefer Dubai travel packages in the months between November and February. It is the best time in terms of the weather, with pleasant temperatures and a vast line-up of special events and festivals. The months from June to August are usually considered the off-season in Dubai for tourists due to an extremely hot weather.

Ans. Booking a Dubai travel package and not trying the local food is a strict no-no! You should feast on the local delicacies that are loved by travellers from across the world. While the Emirate is home to the world’s best-known restaurants and cafes, along with offering cuisines from several parts of the globe, there are still a few quintessentially authentic and local delights that you should not miss. Some of them include the following: Luqaimat- You will love digging into these hot and tasty dumplings which taste just the same as piping doughnuts. Dubai has several cafes whipping up fresh Luqaimat for visitors, accompanied with delectable coffee. Knafeh- It is a Palestinian dessert that uses dough, sour cheese and sugar syrup. It is also a popular Iftar item during the holy month of Ramadan. Camel Dishes- Camel meat is served by multiple restaurants in the city, combined with Biryani, stews, sliders, burgers and a lot more. Camel milk is also worth trying in the form of sumptuous ice cream in flavours such as date, chocolate and pistachio. Samboosa-It is a marvellous snack that will fill you up with its vegetables and meat, accompanied by a generous sprinkling of spices. Some of these pastries even come with cheese stuffing. Chebab- Try an authentic breakfast item named Chebab and you’ll be delighted! These are pancakes stuffed with date syrup and sour cheese, while being heated impeccably to exude an unmatched flavour. Needless to say, you’ll not regret the experience one bit.

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Dubai Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

I found myself loving my first visit here so much that I extended my stay.

Dubai is a city trapped between worlds. It’s a place with a conservative culture and old-world customs while at the same time a Middle-Eastern Vegas where anything goes (so long as it’s behind closed doors). There’s a lot of partying that happens here.

But, beyond that, I was surprised at how much there was to do in this city. This city is more than just a flashy place to spend money. There’s a lot of cultural activities, museums, attractions, tours, and things to do here.

Dubai is a fascinating, multicultural city that deserves a lot more than a stopover. This travel guide to Dubai will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Dubai

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. Visit the Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world, which opened in 2010, boasts a whopping 163 floors. You can go up to the 125th floor for 169 AED for epic views of the city. And for 399 AED you can climb even higher to floor 148 and visit the exclusive lounge. From there, you get panoramic views of the city and desert. Towering 555 meters (1,820 feet), the iconic tower contains a hotel, private residences, corporate offices, and a bar/lounge. At night, the building is illuminated by a spectacular light show of fish, palm trees, and other scenes while the fountain below dances to music. Get your tickets in advance here .

2. Take a desert safari

If you want to get a taste of the desert, head out on a day-long safari . You’ll be able to explore the desert, watch for birds and other wildlife, eat some traditional food, and take in the sweeping vistas. Tour offerings include desert jeep tours, camel riding tours, and horseback riding excursions. A day-long excursion starts at around 439 AED per person.

3. Visit Global Village

This is a massive entertainment extravaganza, with shopping, dining, and live performances all coming together to create an incredible cultural experience. It’s like Epcot Center at Disney World, except it showcases the different cultures of the Middle East. Enjoy ice-skating at Snowfest Ice Rink, visiting Ripley’s Believe It or Not, or taking a thrilling ride at Carnaval amusement park. Admission is only 18 AED.

4. Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden

This quirky and colorful garden opened in 2013 and is spread over 72,000 square meters (775,000 square feet), making it the world’s largest natural flower garden. It’s home to over 150 million flowers and all kinds of flower and plant sculptures. In addition to the natural beauty, you can experience various performances that change each week, and a daily flower parade with live music and choreographed dancers in full flower garb. If you get hungry during your visit there are more than 30 food and beverage options including cafes, candy shops, and healthy juice bars. Admission is 75 AED.

5. Have fun at Kite Beach

If you’re into kitesurfing or water sports, this is a cool place to catch some waves. The artificial beach is one of the most popular in Dubai and features lots of sugary white sand, kids’ activities, food and beverage vendors, fitness areas, and even a library. The winds pick up in the afternoon, making it a good time to hit the water or just sit back and watch others do it. If watersports aren’t your thing, come here to catch some rays and relax as it’s free and open to the public.

Other Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. wander the marina.

The marina area is surrounded by tall buildings and is composed of a beautiful scenic boardwalk. Here you’ll find lots of fancy boats, beautiful condos, and bars and restaurants overlooking the harbor. Be sure to check out Pier 7, which is seven floors of restaurants and bars on the water. Personally, I liked Asia Asia, with its gaudy Asian theme.

2. Hit the mall

Malls in Dubai are not like malls anywhere else in the world. There are over 65 malls in the city with more on the way. People love going to malls here! Between the Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, you’ll find a ton of amazing things to see and do. There’s luxury shopping, nightly fountain shows, an aquarium inside the Dubai Mall (which has a 270-degree underwater tunnel you can walk through), and even indoor skiing at the Mall of the Emirates (the Mall of the Emirates also has over 650 stores and 100 restaurants). You can also visit the world’s largest themed mall, the Ibn Battuta Mall. It has a Moroccan theme and is named after the eponymous explorer (it has over 270 stores and 50 restaurants too). Be sure to dress appropriately and avoid tank tops, shorts, or mini-skirts.

3. Visit the Grand Mosque

Located in nearby Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is definitely worth a half-day trip. Built between 1996-2007, the mosque and its surrounding gardens span over 30 acres. It’s almost all white too, giving it a very majestic look. It’s a 90-minute drive from Dubai (about 290 AED each way in a taxi or 25 AED on the bus). You’ll want to make sure you wear appropriate clothing since it is a place of worship (they have cover-up items available for anyone without suitable attire). During Eid, upwards of 41,000 people visit the mosque each day. Admission is free.

4. Explore Old Dubai

This is Dubai as it used to be. Markets (like the famous gold market) pepper the area, small shops line the streets, and you can get lost in a dizzying maze of alleyways. Take a boat across Dubai Creek to Deira (you can ride an abra, a traditional wooden boat) and wander aimlessly around the streets, eat at some of the traditional restaurants, explore the art district, and see Dubai as it is away from the glitz of the malls and high-rises. Don’t miss the Dubai Frame (a landmark offering the best views of the city), the gold market (which has upwards of 10 tons of gold at any time), and the spice souk (a large spice market you can browse).

5. Tour the Jumeirah Mosque

Opened in 1979, this beautiful mosque is one of two in the city you can actually visit. Built in the Fatimid style, it consists of one large room and there is a guided tour every day at 10am and 2pm (except Fridays). It’s 35 AED and comes with a great breakfast spread. If you don’t know much about Islam or the role it plays in the UAE, it’s a pretty interesting and educational tour.

6. Go deep-sea fishing

It’s quite easy to book a spot on a boat and head out to sea if you want to try your hand at deep-sea fishing. Tour operators cater to all ages and levels of experience, and most packages even include lunch. Prices vary depending on what sort of vessel you book and how long you go but expect to pay 1,500 AED for a 4-6-hour trip.

7. Relax at Jumeirah Beach

This white-sand beach is a fantastic place to sunbathe and stroll along the boardwalk. Located along the coast just south of the city’s historic district, there are lots of shops to visit, and there is even an outdoor movie theater. Not only is this a great place to visit, but it’s a great area to stay because you’re surrounded by so many things to do. There are playgrounds here for kids as well as areas to BBQ. It’s perfect for picnics but gets super busy on the weekend so try to enjoy it during the week to beat the crowd.

8. Wander the Palm Islands

On this famous man-made palm tree-shaped island , you’ll find a large shopping walkway, the Atlantis resort, the Aquaventure waterpark, and a host of fancy restaurants, bars, and clubs. It’s beautiful to walk around and explore during the day (at night, it’s pretty boring!).

9. Visit the Souk Madinat Jumeirah

This souk (market) is in a modern building designed to look like something out of Aladdin but it’s actually home to some incredible restaurants. There’s a beautiful inner courtyard pond in this complex, too. Come here if you want to splurge if you’re a foodie! Don’t miss Al Makan for local dishes, Anar for Persian cuisine, and The Noodle House for tasty Asian eats.

10. Binge at brunch

Brunch is a tradition among locals and expats. Every Friday, everyone flocks to a midday buffet of unlimited drinks and food. As the day goes on, it often turns into debauchery that would make Nero proud. However, brunch is not a cheap affair, costing as much as 700 AED. Ask your hotel/hostel staff where the cheapest brunches are. You can usually find some for under 200 AED.

Dubai Travel Costs

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at 285 AED in peak season. In the off-season, budget rooms cost around 90 AED. Expect basic amenities like a TV, tea/coffee maker, and AC.

There are lots of Airbnb options in Dubai. A private room starts around 100 AED per night though you should expect to pay double (or even triple or quadruple) if you don’t book early. Enrire homes/apartments start around 250 AED per night, however, they average triple that price so book early.

Food – Emirati cuisine takes influences from its Middle Eastern neighbors. More recently, as an international hub, you can find all kinds of internal flavors here as well. Popular dishes in Dubai include hummus, shawarma, shish tawook (grilled kebabs), and knafeh (a sweet cheese pastry topped with rose syrup and pistachios). Dates and fish are common staples, with camel milk being a more traditional addition to the diet. Popular spices include saffron, cinnamon, and turmeric.

In Dubai, a meal out costs around 65 AED while dinner for two with drinks usually averages 190-300 AED. For fast food like McDonald’s, expect to pay around 30 AED for a combo meal.

A large pizza costs around 45 AED while Chinese food is around 50 AED. A beer is about 45 AED while a latte or cappuccino is 19 AED. Bottled water is around 2 AED.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay around 500 AED per week for groceries including pasta, vegetables, meat or fish, and other basic staples.

Backpacking Dubai Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 260 AED per day you can stay in a hostel, cook all your meals, take public transportation to get around, skip drinking, and do mostly free activities like enjoying the beach and visiting the malls and mosques. If you plan on drinking, add 40-80 AED extra per day.

On a mid-range budget of 870 AED per day, you can stay in a cheap hotel or Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a couple drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities, such as a desert safari.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,425 AED, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink as much as you’d like, go out for a brunch, take paid tours, visit the Burj Khalifa, and rent a car for some day trips. The sky is the limit here!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AED.

Dubai Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Dubai is an expensive city. If you’re hanging out in the malls and restaurants that cater to expats, you’re going to spend a lot of money. That said, there are a few things you can do to cut costs so you don’t blow your budget. Here are some quick tips to help you save money in Dubai:

• Use Groupon – Groupon is huge in Dubai and you can find tons of discounts, 2-for-1 specials, and deals on the website. If there is something you want to do, check there first as there is a high chance you’ll find a discount.
• Get The Entertainer – The Entertainer is a magazine and app that offers discounts and specials on restaurants, hotels, and activities. Pick up a copy when you arrive in Dubai. It’s not cheap but sometimes you can find the app 50% off or get a free trial. There are monthly subscriptions starting at 35 AED per month and a “lite” version that is free. If you plan to see and do a lot, it’s worth the price.
• Find happy hours – Dubai is full of happy hours. Plan your drinking accordingly to avoid the city’s high-priced booze.
• Skip the booze – Outside the happy hours and all-you-can-eat brunches, drinking is expensive so I would go easy on the drinking during your visit — or skip it altogether if you’re on a budget.
• Eat in Old Dubai – Step away from the hotels, malls, and fancy souks meant to make you think you are in Aladdin and head into Old Dubai for cheap eats.
• Pick accommodation near the metro – Make sure your accommodation is near a metro stop. You don’t want to be walking around unnecessarily when it’s scorching hot and public transportation is much cheaper than taxis.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in Dubai so bring a reusable water bottle to reduce your single-use plastic usage. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Dubai

Dubai doesn’t have a lot of hostels so you’ll want to book in advance if you plan to stay in a hostel. Here are my suggested places to stay in Dubai:

• Green Sky Apartments
• Bombay Backpackers DXB
• Bohemian Backpackers

How to Get Around Dubai

Public transportation – Dubai’s metro consists of nearly 50 stations. You can get to wherever you need to go, or close to it, with public transportation. Hours of operation depend on the day but both lines start operating from around 5:30am until about 1am. On Fridays, however, the trains don’t start running until 10am.

You’ll need a Nol Card to get around and you can buy the card at any of the ticket offices at the metro stations for 25 AED.

Fares depend on which of the zones you are traveling to. A standard ticket for one zone is 4 AED, for two zones it’s 6 AED, and if you are traveling through 3 or more zones it’s 8.50 AED.

If you can’t get to where you’re going by subway, the bus will get you there. Like the metro, the bus has different zones, and the Nol card is used as payment.

Ferry – The ferry in Dubai runs daily from three different terminals in the marina. Evening trips on the ferry are much busier, so be sure to get to the terminal 30 minutes early. Tickets range from 15-50 AED for silver class (seats in the main section of the boat) and 25-75 AED for gold class (more comfortable seats at the front of the boat).

Taxi – Taxis start at 12 AED and go up by around 2.50 AED per kilometer. Skip them if you can. They add up quickly!

Ridesharing – Uber and Careem are the two main ridesharing apps in Dubai. They aren’t usually cheaper than a standard taxi but they tend to be a lot more convenient.

Bicycle – Bikes can be rented from Nextbike for around 20 AED per hour or 80 AED per day.

Car rental – If you’re leaving the city, cars can be rented for around 190 AED per day. I would only rent one if you’re leaving the city. Otherwise, just use public transportation to get around. It will be much faster!

When to Go to Dubai

The most popular time to visit Dubai is between November-April. The weather is cooler and perfect for desert safaris, with daily highs averaging around 27°C (80°F). Flights and accommodation will be more expensive during this time though so plan accordingly.

May-August is the low season as Dubai just gets too warm. Daily highs average around 41°C (106°F) and make exploring the city unbearable. I visited in August and it was brutal. Skip the summer if you can!

The shoulder season between September and October is when the sea becomes perfect for swimming and water sports. It’s much less busy during this time so you’ll find fewer crowds and cheaper prices too.

How to Stay Safe in Dubai

Dubai is a very safe city. Violent crime is incredibly rare here. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, though they’re quite rare too. As long as you keep your valuables secure while you’re out and about you likely won’t have any issues.

Be aware that many activities that are legal in other countries are not legal in Dubai, such as displays of public affection between unmarried or LGBTQ partners, drunken behavior, dressing immodestly, swearing, photographing people without their permission, and criticizing UAE’s government.

You’ll need to dress and act conservatively here. All the wild and crazy stuff in the city happens behind closed doors. It’s a see no evil kind of thing. Don’t push the limit in public or you’re likely to get into serious trouble. Be extra cautious about being wild or “immodest” here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.) when you’re here. For an extra layer of safety, use the female-only cars on the metro. For more information, check out one of the many solo female travl blogs on the city to help you out.

Scams here are rare. If you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read my post on common travel scams to avoid .

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for the police, 998 for an ambulance, and 997 for the fire department.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Dubai Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Dubai Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Dubai and continue planning your trip:

How to Save Money in Dubai (and 9 cool things to do there!)

Dubai: The Las Vegas of the Middle East?

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48 hours in Dubai: Hits and misses

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL TRENDS , DUBAI / Created : Apr 6, 2024, 21:00 IST

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If you ever find yourself in Dubai, but have limited time, or say just 48 hours, to explore Dubai, there will be no doubt that it will be an exhilarating whirlwind of experiences.

If you ever find yourself in Dubai, but have limited time, or say just 48 hours, to explore Dubai, there will be no doubt that it will be an exhilarating whirlwind of experiences. Read less

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Dubai: global village announces new operating hours for eid al fitr holidays, fireworks will be lighting up the sky at 9pm every night during the festive period.

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Taking the kids to the world of wonders at Global Village (GV) during the long weekend? The popular festival on Saturday announced its new, extended opening hours for the Eid Al Fitr holidays.

GV has been welcoming visitors from 6pm since Ramadan started. When the holy month ends, it will be back to its usual 4pm opening time — and for the Eid holidays, it will be stay open until 2am.

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Fireworks will also be lighting up the sky every night at 9pm throughout festive period.

The park promises to put on a breathtaking spectacle for its visitors, from its decorations to its carnival thrills. More than 200 cultural and entertainment shows are lined up around the park.

With Season 28 gearing up for its end on April 28, guests are encouraged to seize the opportunity and embark on a cultural journey through the Eid Wonder Souq, where they can shop for Eid gifts, souvenirs, antiquities, and more.

Foodies will also get the chance indulge their taste buds with an array of culinary delights from more than 250 restaurants, kiosks, food trucks, and cafes.

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Drake bell forgives rider strong after letter of support for his abuser: “we are healing together”, lauren graham shares fond memories of matthew perry while on book tour.

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Gilmore Girls alum Lauren Graham hosted a Q&A Friday during her Have I Told You This Already? book tour. Speaking to an audience at the Lincoln Theater in Washington, D.C., the discussion turned to her friendship with the late Matthew Perry .

“It’s still really hard to believe,” Graham said of Perry’s death.

Perry died at age 54 in his Los Angeles-area home on Oct. 28, 2023 from ketamine use that led to his drowning in a hot tub.

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“We would stretch for a year, then he would come back in my life, and he had just come back in my life last year,” she said, sharing that Perry bought her a pickleball set for her birthday that March.

“He’s like really into tennis and pickleball, with a card that said, ‘Be older,’ ” she said, calling his death “a terrible loss.”

A photo of Perry and Graham appeared in his 2022 memoir Friends, Lovers and the Big Terrible Thing. “Me and the beautiful Lauren Graham,” the caption read.

Graham that Perry was proud of how his confessional book was received.

“The solace I take from having seen him at the time I saw him was he was so thrilled with how his book was received — and not just because it was a huge success, but because his life’s work kind of became, ‘How can I give back? How can I talk about the struggles I had and hopefully help someone else?’” she said.

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From Japan’s e-visa to Dubai’s 5-year tourist visa, here are the latest visa updates for Indian travellers

Latest visa news for indians: check out the latest visa updates for indian travellers to ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience this summer vacations..

Latest Visa Updates for Indian Tourists:  As the summer holiday season is just around the corner, it’s crucial to start planning one’s travel itinerary to ensure a memorable and stress-free vacation. As per the Henley Passport Index 2024 , India is ranked 80th. Indians get visa-free access to 62 countries.

From eVisas introduced by Japan to Dubai’s multiple entry five-year visa, in recent months, there have been new visa regulations in various countries across the globe for India, and being well-versed in the latest visa requirements will ensure a smooth and hassle-free travel experience and making informed decisions.

Here is a complete list of the latest visa updates every Indian traveller should know.

1. japan’s e-visa:.

Japan has introduced an eVisa system for Indian travellers, making it easier and more convenient to visit the country. Starting in April, eligible Indian citizens and foreign nationals residing in India can apply for an eVisa for short-term tourism purposes through the application process operated by VFS Global. Now, instead of physical stickers in passports, visas will be issued electronically and would offer a single-entry option, allowing stays up to 90 days.

2. Romania, Bulgaria and Croatia’s Schengen visa:

Becoming the recent EU nations to join Europe’s Schengen travel area, Croatia, Romania and Bulgaria have partially joined the Schengen area, expanding the scope of the Schengen visa  to include 29 countries across continental Europe. This means that Indian travellers can now obtain Schengen visas from Romania and Bulgaria, allowing stays of up to 90 days within 180 days.

3. Dubai’s five-year, multiple-entry tourist visa:

Dubai introduced a new visa program tailored to Indian travellers in February, which offers a five-year, multiple-entry option, allowing stays of up to 90 days in the country, with the possibility of a single extension not exceeding 180 days annually, for both business and leisure trips, with unlimited entries and exits within five years.

4. Thailand’s visa-free entry:

The Thai Government has introduced a temporary visa exemption for Indian passport holders, enabling them to enter Thailand without a tourist visa from November 10, 2023, to May 10, 2024, with an exemption granting a 30-day stay for tourism purposes.

5. Kenya to eliminate visa requirements:

Starting from January 1, 2024, Kenya has abolished visa requirements for Indian citizens and all international tourists, to boost its tourism industry. This decision aims to provide easier access to Kenya’s rich wildlife and beautiful beaches, encouraging more visitors to explore the country’s unique attractions.

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AAP's Sanjay Singh, recently released from Tihar Jail, discussed the party's strategy for the Lok Sabha polls and the INDIA alliance. He addressed the arrest of CM Arvind Kejriwal and the conspiracy against the party, as well as the growing role of Kejriwal's wife. Singh expressed confidence in defeating the BJP and emphasized the importance of a common minimum programme among INDIA parties.

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People in the US: share your ‘modern wedding etiquette’ suggestions

Have you asked for cash gifts from your guests, rather than a stainless steel dining set? We want to hear from you

While the notion of marriage may be steeped in tradition, many couples like to add a modern twist to etiquette and their own stamp on “the rules”.

In fact, in 2024, established norms at wedding ceremonies are relatively loose. For example, it’s fine for a bridesmaid not go to the bachelorette party if she can’t afford it.

Some couples might want to enjoy their special day without kids running around screaming. Is it OK to implement a no-children rule for your big day?

We want to hear your suggestions for “modern wedding etiquette”. What do you think about asking for cash gifts from your guests, rather than a stainless steel dining set? Or forgoing favors for your guests – which more often than not, end up thrown in the trash or forgotten in a drawer?

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