Have you ever thought about taking a very different and at the same time very enriching trip? Your chosen destination could be right there, in Asia, in the Middle East region.
There’s a delicate balance between old and new in Dubai , resulting in plenty of things to do. You could spend your mornings lazing around Jumeirah Beach and your afternoons enjoying some extreme sports at Ski Dubai. Or you could start your day haggling at the traditional Gold and Spice Souk before flexing your credit card at the contemporary Dubai Mall . But first things first: get to know the city. Head straight to the top of the Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest building), where you’ll find incredible views of the Arabian Gulf. And if you’re interested in a more traditional perspective, take an abar (water taxi) along Dubai Creek.
The United Arab Emirates is a melting pot of cultures from all over the world. So, you will find the best restaurants, your taste buds will travel the world. From the Middle East, with a stop in Italy, to Japan.
Sometimes it feels like Dubai is all shopping and air conditioning, but this desert city has an exciting new influx of cultural institutions, galleries and shopping complexes, all focused on attracting a new generation of visitors. Whether your idea of an adrenaline rush is jumping out of a plane or watching the city’s dramatic fountains shoot 500 feet into the air, just about anything is possible in this city, and we’ve got the list to prove it. Here are our picks for some of the best things to do in this incredible place!
What to do in Dubai
This country may not have as much history as other places on the planet, such as Egypt and Greece , but it stands out as a pioneer in constructions that carry the title of “largest”, “unique” and “exclusive in the world”. In modern Dubai , there is no shortage of surprising attractions, each one more exciting than the last. Let’s take a look at the list:
Burj Khalifa
Standing at 828 metres high, the Burj Khalifa can’t be avoided. The globe’s tallest building obviously commands respect from the city skyline, yet the building’s real splendour is maximally enjoyed by being near to it or preferably from within. On a sunny day, the panorama from the observation deck on the 124th floor is simply breathtaking, and if you want a higher view, you can peer out from the high-end At The Top Sky Lounge on the 148th floor. And for those who want to unwind a little, dine at At mosphere on the 122nd floor or visit The Lounge, Burj Khalifa, covering the 152nd, 153rd and 154th floors, the tallest lounge in the world.
Dubai Mall
As the world’s largest shopping mall, the Dubai Mall attracts nearly 200 million visitors each year. It’s easy to get lost – there are over 1,200 stores, after all – but it’s a great place to beat the Dubai heat and enjoy the luxury shopping. It attracts more tourists from around the world than New York City or Los Angeles, so it’s a must-see.
Burj Al Arab
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is among the most famous structures in the Middle East, perhaps the world. The sail-like building is unlike any other and the hotel itself is a byword for opulence. Visit the Skyview Bar for innovative mixed cocktails with stunning views, or go to the Scape Restaurant and Lounge for a lovely outdoor patio. The world’s only 7-star hotel. If you cannot remain there, no need to worry, a photograph in front of this work of architecture is worth it;
Palm Jumeirah
A palm-tree-shaped man-made island – and there’s the reason why it’s said only in Dubai. The Palm Jumeirah is a world-wide largest man-made island and marvel of human brains. Locals and visitors indulge in the sheer variety of Palm’s luxury resorts, such as the Waldorf Astoria, Fairmont, One & Only, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray and most famously, Atlantis, The Palm. And with a monorail down the ‘trunk’ linking up to the mainland tram system, getting there is as simple as can be. The product of a number of artificial islands that collectively make up the form of a palm tree, it’s certainly one of the city’s most stunning aspects.
Dubai Marina
Take a look into the future at the world’s largest man-made marina, Dubai Marina . Marvel at iconic buildings as you stroll along Marina Walk or take in the views from the water on a traditional dhow cruise. This New Dubai hotspot is on every visitor’s holiday itinerary for this reason, and with a variety of waterfront restaurants, it’s easy to spend an afternoon here. Feeling brave? Take on the XLine, the world’s longest urban zipline. Bastakiya
The historic district of Al Fahidi, known as Al Bastakiya , holds memories of a time before the federation of the Emirates. A historic and traditional area, located south of Dubai Creek, you can also visit the Dubai Museum from there . One of the coolest things to do in this part of the city is to take a boat trip around the creek, which gives you a panoramic view of Old Dubai;
Gold and Spice Market
Gold, spices or textiles – take your pick. On either side of Dubai Creek, you’ll be able to explore some of Dubai’s classic souks, which at the time were some of the city’s most important economic hubs. The Gold Souk is estimated to be home to up to ten tons of gold, and there are dozens of jewelry stores offering incredible items, as well as other things to do. Meanwhile, you can buy tons of fresh herbs, spices, ingredients, medicines and more at the Spice Souk, and fabrics, clothes and more at the Textile Souk.
Dubai Desert
It is full of sand dunes and incredible landscapes that invite you to stay. The best way to enjoy the desert is by taking a camping safari tour, a very interesting experience – I would classify it as a quick immersion into the traditional life of the Emirati people.