Dubai Travel Guide
Dubai is a gleaming showcase of ambition where the world's tallest tower, man-made islands and vast air-conditioned malls rise from the desert. It blends futuristic spectacle with Emirati heritage, luxury shopping with dune-swept adventure, and it does everything on a grand scale.
Dubai — Highlights in photos
Top things to do
Burj Khalifa
The world's tallest building soars over 828 meters, with observation decks on the 124th, 125th and 148th floors offering staggering views. Book a sunset slot online in advance to catch the city glowing gold, then dark and glittering.
The Dubai Mall
One of the world's largest malls, home to an aquarium, an indoor ice rink, hundreds of shops and the base of the Burj Khalifa. Even non-shoppers should visit for the scale and to watch the fountain show outside.
Desert Safari
A half-day 4x4 dune-bashing trip into the desert usually includes camel rides, sandboarding and a Bedouin-style camp dinner with live entertainment. Book an evening safari to enjoy the sunset over the dunes and a cooler drive.
Palm Jumeirah
This iconic palm-shaped artificial island is lined with beach resorts, restaurants and the Atlantis resort at its crown. Ride the monorail out to the tip or visit a beach club for the full experience.
The Dubai Fountain
Set on the lake between the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, this choreographed fountain shoots water high into the air to music every evening. Shows run every 30 minutes after dark and are completely free to watch.
Old Dubai: Al Fahidi & the Creek
The historic Al Fahidi district, with its wind-tower houses and museums, sits by Dubai Creek where you can cross on a traditional abra water taxi for a few dirhams. This is the atmospheric, old-world counterpoint to the glitz.
Gold and Spice Souks
The bustling markets of Deira dazzle with glittering gold jewelry and fragrant heaps of spices and dried goods. Haggling is expected, so negotiate with a smile.
Dubai Marina & JBR Beach
A dramatic canyon of skyscrapers around a yacht-filled marina, backed by the buzzing Jumeirah Beach Residence beachfront. Stroll the promenade at dusk and stay for the beach clubs and dining.
Museums & entry info
Museum of the Future
An architecturally stunning torus-shaped building exploring technology, space and sustainability through immersive exhibits. Tickets are around AED 145 (roughly $40), typically open daily around 10am-6pm. Check the official website for current prices and hours.
Dubai Museum (Al Fahidi Fort)
Housed in the city's oldest building, it traces Dubai's transformation from pearling village to metropolis. Entry is very low-cost, only a few dirhams, when open; note it has been undergoing renovation, so check status. Check the official website for current prices and hours.
Etihad Museum
A modern museum telling the story of the founding of the United Arab Emirates in 1971. Admission is around AED 25, generally open daily about 10am-6pm. Check the official website for current prices and hours.
Al Shindagha Museum
A waterfront heritage complex by the Creek exploring Emirati culture, perfume and pearl diving. Tickets run roughly AED 15-50, open most days around 10am-6pm. Check the official website for current prices and hours.
Coffee Museum
A small, charming museum in Al Fahidi dedicated to the history and rituals of coffee, with tastings. Entry is free or a nominal fee, typically open daytime hours. Check the official website for current prices and hours.
Signature experiences
Evening Desert Safari
The signature Dubai adventure combines dune bashing, camel rides and sandboarding with a desert camp dinner, henna and belly dancing under the stars. Expect to pay roughly AED 150-300 (about $40-80) depending on inclusions.
Dhow Dinner Cruise
Sail along Dubai Marina or the Creek on a traditional wooden dhow with a buffet dinner and skyline views. Prices typically range from AED 120-250 per person.
Skydiving over the Palm
For a splurge, tandem skydive with a view straight down onto Palm Jumeirah, one of the world's most photographed jumps. It costs around AED 2,000+ but is unforgettable.
Abra Ride Across the Creek
Hop on a traditional wooden water taxi to cross Dubai Creek between the old souks, a slice of authentic, everyday Dubai. It costs just AED 1, making it the best-value experience in the city.
What to eat
Dubai's dining is wonderfully international, but seek out Emirati and wider Middle Eastern flavors for the local taste. Here's what to try.
November to March offers warm, pleasant days ideal for beaches and desert trips, which is why it's peak season. Summer (June-September) is intensely hot, though hotel deals abound and everything indoors is heavily air-conditioned.
The clean, driverless Metro is cheap and efficient, using a rechargeable Nol card, and it connects directly to Dubai International Airport terminals 1 and 3. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are affordable and plentiful for areas the Metro doesn't reach.
Traveler tips
- Dress modestly in public areas, malls and especially mosques; cover shoulders and knees.
- Public displays of affection and drinking alcohol outside licensed venues are not permitted.
- Friday is the traditional holy day, so some businesses open later; the weekend is Saturday-Sunday.
- Carry a light layer for the fierce indoor air-conditioning, even in summer heat.