Dubai is a city that almost seems to have risen out of nowhere in a relatively short amount of time and now stands as a popular destination due to its huge mix of malls, architecture, immense skyscrapers and (perhaps lesser focused on) historical sites. There’s honestly a heap of the places to see in Dubai, which is great if you’re heading over for a long weekend (or an even longer trip to the region).
After all, Dubai has essentially been built for you to have the kind of fun you want. Whatever you’re looking for, Dubai’s probably got it; even the opportunity to ski with 40c heat outside.
Long story short, Dubai is modern, shiny and vibrant if you’re into an indulgent city break.
With that in mind, take a look at some of the best places to see in Dubai on your next trip!
1.) Burj Khalifa
Towering above the high-rise skyline of Dubai, the Burj Khalifa is a national landmark and stands at a staggering 829m tall.
The architecture of this building is a true feat of engineering. The observation deck on the 124th floor is an absolute must and provides you with unrivalled views of the city. Plus, the surrounding gardens are an absolute delight to walk through.
Honestly, you can even see the building when you’re landing into Dubai. It’s huge and totally stands out on the skyline of Dubai.
There are also loads of shops and spas around and within the Burj Khalifa, too. You can easily spend a whole day here (if you want).
2.) Dubai Mall
Dubai is famed for its shopping opportunities and multi-million dollar architecture and the Mall of Dubai is the culmination of both of these things.
Within this vast purpose-built mall is a multitude of designer shops, arcades, restaurants and even an ice-skating rink and a cinema complex. If you are looking for a touch of retail therapy, there is no better place to visit in all of Dubai.
Honestly, if you want to go shopping then you’ll easily find this one of the best places to see in Dubai. Though, if you’re not into retail therapy, you might want to give it a miss.
3.) Jumeirah Mosque
Widely considered to be Dubai’s most prestigious and beautiful Mosque, the Jumeirah Mosque is a beautiful example of traditional Arabesque architecture.
Two immense Minarets crown the mosque and the whole building is covered in a fantastic cream stone facade; an absolutely stunning place to visit in Dubai.
For me, it’s a one of the best places to see in Dubai if you want to explore more of the region’s culture. After all, there’s no point going to Dubai and just focusing on the shiny malls.
4.) Burj al-Arab
As the world’s tallest hotel, the Burj Al-Arab or ‘the sail’ is a 321m high hotel that sits on the Dubai coast.
Situated on its own man-made island, this hotel is an absolute icon! Plus, it’s one of the places to see in Dubai you have to see. After all, it’s like the Statue of Liberty of Dubai itself.
5.) Jumeirah Beach
Jumeirah is a prime coastal location in Dubai and the stretch of beach located near the Burj Al-Arab is the perfect place to relax and soak up some sunshine (though be careful, the sun here is a scorcher).
The boulevard (adjacent to the beach) is lined with some of Dubai’s top resorts and there’s a myriad of bars and restaurants to relax and indulge in.
6.) IMG Worlds of Adventure
Dubai is not just about high-rise structures and shopping and the IMG Worlds of Adventures proves just that.
This expansive adventure park offers something for people of all ages and features a plethora of experiences, rides and interactive attractions. Here you can truly unwind and have some fun.
From haunted houses to rollercoasters and 3d simulators; you’ll easily be entertained for hours all out of the glaring sun. That being said, if you’re not into rides, you might want to give this spot a miss.
7.) Bastakia Quarter
Much of the ancient parts of Dubai still exist and the Bastakia Quarter. It provides the chance to explore a more traditional side of the city that is often overlooked and well worth seeing.
Throughout this charming part of the city, you can find a series of narrow streets lined with traditional limestone houses, many of which are topped with wind-towers.
The Arabesque architecture is prevalent here and you’ll be left feeling like you’ve been transported into another world.
8.) Dubai Museum
Located within the Al Fahidi Fort, the Dubai Museum combines the ancient structure of the fort together with exhibitions.
It’s a really great way to explore some more of the history of this region and is quite different from the shiny and new parts of Dubai itself. This makes it one of the places to see in Dubai when you’re visiting for sure.
9.) Palm island
Possibly the most well-known man-made creation in the whole of Dubai. Palm Island is a series of islands that stretch out from the coast and form a large palm tree leaf in the water.
Each strand of the palm creates a separate street and is filled with some rather expensive houses.
At the far end is the magnificent Atlantis hotel that contains a wonderful water park that includes a slide that travels through an aquarium.
10.) Dubai Aquarium
Located within the Dubai Mall is the Dubai Aquarium – this interesting attraction features a huge suspended tank that is filled with over 140 different species of sea life. Part of the aquarium is free to enter, and there is also a section that requires a fee but allows you to walk through specially designed walkways that wind underneath the aquarium.
Here you will see a wide variety of different fish, sharks, and other beautiful marine animals. It really is one of the best places to see in Dubai if you’re travelling with the family and want to get out of that midday heat.
11.) Visit the desert
Of course, if you’ve got time, make sure to head out into the desert itself. You can even stay overnight and watch the stars. It’s a totally cool experience and well worth it if you fancy leaving the city for a while.
Also, you can head out to go hot air ballooning and 4X4 safaris that are totally fun, too. It really is one of the best places in Dubai to experience.
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