Dubai

We’ve compiled the best of the best in Dubai - browse our top choices for the top things to see or do during your stay.

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  • 1. Al Fahidi Historical Neigborhood

    The South Bank

    The only surviving historic district in Dubai almost fell victim to the demolition squads in the 1980s, but is now is the only place where visitors can get a real feel of what the emirate was like before developers moved in. The area first was settled in the early 19th century by a group of traders from Bastak in Persia, or today's Iran. The traders thrived here and built fine mansions for their families that flanked the lanes and alleyways. Today, many of these historic homes, with cool inner courtyards and "barjeels"—wind towers that top the plain stucco walls—are accessible to the public, and house galleries, boutique hotels, cafés and cultural organizations. It's even possible to have a breakfast like a local in the SMCCU cultural center.

    Al Fahidi St., Bur Dubai, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

    Sight Details

    Some homes closed Fri. morning and daily during lunch 1--4 Rate Includes: Free
  • 2. Burj Khalifa

    World Trade Centre

    The world's tallest building dominates the Dubai skyline like a scimitar pointing skyward. Designed by Adrian Smith of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill, the Burj Khalifa houses a mixture of commercial and residential spaces, as well as the Armani Hotel. The 828 meter building, named after the ruler of the UAE, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed al Nahyan, can be visited in the hotel public areas, and it is also possible to book a viewing "At the Top" for some spectacular 360-degree views. A high-speed lift will zoom you up 1,500 feet to the 125th floor, or, you may book the second rung "Burj Khalifa Sky," a VIP lounge experience on level 148. At.mosphere restaurant and bar on level 122 can be visited without an entry fee, but there is always minimum spend.

    1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    4-366--1655

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: From 125 dirhams for adults, 95 dirhams for children, Book online; walk-up bookings are higher price
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  • 3. Dubai Creek

    The North Bank

    Without the creek, Dubai would not exist. This safe inlet, one of a few in the Gulf area, was the obvious choice for a commercial port for the sea trade that funds the region. Dubai port developed into the natural focus for ocean traffic around the Gulf, to the west, and for boats from India and Africa. The waterfront bears little resemblance to its early years, because it's been dredged and widened several times during the 20th century. On the Deira bank near the creek mouth are a series of low-rise merchant districts that include the major souks. Further inland at Al-Rigga and Garhoud, the Deira creek front is home to the first modernist architecture that transformed the city from local hub into worldwide style icon. Dubai's abras have been transporting people across the creek for as long as anyone can remember. These tiny engine-powered wooden boats provide a perfect outlook of the bustle of the creek, for just one dirham a crossing, and can deliver tourists from one souk to another in just a few minutes.

    Baniyas Rd., Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Free
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  • 4. Global Village

    World Trade Centre

    Winter in Dubai brings about many events, but none are more colorful than those at the Global Village. Every year, delegates from more than 75 countries and regions come together in this 17 million square foot venue for the largest cultural festival in the emirate. Each country holds a stand over 30 pavilions, and offer local handicrafts, retail specialties and ethnic food. Folkloric and fireworks displays take place every night, and a huge amusement park is on-site.

    Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Rd., Dubailand, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    4-362--4114

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: AED15, Closes early Apr.--mid-Nov.
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  • 5. Gold Souk

    The North Bank

    Take sunglasses when you visit the Gold Souk—no matter what time of day. The window displays shine with precious metals and cut stones that are so reflective they'll nearly blind you. The Gold Souk is one of the world's most important jewelry trading centers, catering to customers from the Gulf region and beyond. Jewelry is a portable method of storing wealth, and gold still makes up part of a woman's wedding dowry in many societies in Africa, the Arabian Gulf, and India. Citizens of these countries flock to Dubai to buy gold because prices are some of the most competitive in the world. There is a high proportion of very yellow gold, a finish popular in the region, but it's also possible to find gleaming metals and gems in almost any shape and color. If you can't find what you want, you can even have something made over a couple of days. Gold is sold by weight, a constantly shifting price that is consistent across the souk, with variations in price based only on workmanship.

    Souk Deira St., Deira, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Free, Some stores close for lunch 1--4; some close Fri. morning
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  • 6. IMG Worlds of Adventure

    World Trade Centre

    This temperature-controlled theme park stretches over in excess of 1.5 million square feet, meaning even sweltering summer temperatures won't make a Dubai stopover boring for kids. There are a stack of thrill rides and high adrenaline attractions based on animated characters from Marvel and Cartoon Network. There's also the Lost Valley dinosaur park, themed retail outlets, a cinema, live shows, and live characters walking around. There is a good range of attractions for all ages, but the park seems to suit ages 8 to 15 very well.

    Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Rd., Dubailand, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    600-500962

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: 195 dirhams
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  • 7. Madinat Jumeirah

    Jumeirah Beach

    Translating to Jumeirah City in Arabic, Madinat Jumeirah connects four five-star hotels around a central souk, theater, gardens, and waterways. Although constructed in recent years, it resembles an adobe brick oasis town, and is exceptionally well replicated. The complex looks especially appealing after dark when soft lighting illuminates the pastel stucco, barjeels, and cobbled courtyards. Souk Madinat, a beautifully designed bazaar of winding alleyways, takes the best aspects of a traditional market with lots of small stalls piled high with tempting souvenirs, partners them with high-end boutiques and traders of exotic housewares, then adds an extra element of comfort—air-conditioning. Art, carpets, and furniture are high quality here, but the prices reflect this and are rarely negotiable. Madinat Jumeirah's waterfront makes a great stop for a lazy lunch or long dinner. Restaurants and bars line both sides of the canal promenade and many have liquor licenses, so you can enjoy a glass of wine or a cocktail as you relax in the balmy air and watch the abras putt-putt along the waterways.

    Al Sufouh Rd., Al Sufouh, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    4-366--8888

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Free
  • 8. Ski Dubai

    Burj Dubai

    Ski Dubai caused a wave of excitement to spread through the Gulf region when it opened in 2005. It's a mountain resort in miniature with two key runs and various spaces for learners and the more experienced who wish to do tricks. Entry includes all your ski or snowboard gear, and you can also book lessons. There's plenty to do if you don't ski; at the base is a snow park with toboggans, a giant ball run and some minirides for tots. Nonskiers may also take the chair lift for a spin to the top, or halfway to the "snow bullet," a fast-seated zip line. There are gentoo and king penguins living in the complex, and it's possible to see them on the hour, or book a meet-and-greet session. When you're ready for a break, relax at one of the two cafés in the complex, and appreciate the irony of needing a warming hot chocolate in the middle of the Arabian desert.

    Sheikh Zayed Rd., Al Barsha, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    800-386-bookings

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Prices start around 200 dirhams for snow park entry or 2 hrs skiing, Prebooking recommended at peak times
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  • 9. Spice Souk

    The North Bank

    Easily accessed via the abra station that delivers tourists from the textile souk across the river, the Spice Souk is one of the most popular destinations in Deira for visitors. It's only a small market, but the rear edges spill toward a more generic market area, which in turn meets the gold and perfume souks. Spices, dried herbs, and flowers and resinous globs of frankincense are displayed in large baskets in traditional alleyways and allow for some excellent photography opportunities. If you want to buy, look for saffron in particular, which comes in various qualities that will happily be displayed by the vendors. Feel free to ask them about everything—there are plenty of unrecognizable and surprising products available. It makes great fodder for the budding chef or simply the curious.

    34th St., Al Ras, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Some stores closed Fri. morning and during lunch daily 1--4
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  • 10. Textile Souk

    The South Bank

    A series of stores runs from the Old Souk abra station, through to the Al Fahidi district. It's loosely termed the Textile Souk, though it's also full of tacky souvenirs, touts, and eateries. Meandering from the wooden arch at the old souk end will take you past pashminas, table linen, and cushion covers. Farther out, past the wooden roofing framework, the stores sprawl into neighboring lanes and are filled with the raw materials. Most of the fabric comes from India and China, and includes quality cottons for the Emirati dishdasha, exotic silks, and sheer bejeweled fabrics and saris. You can order a full skein of cloth to take home, or have one of the tailors in the area construct something from your chosen fabric within a couple of days. Even if you're not buying, it's a worthwhile place to wander, a thriving marketplace full of photogenic aging architecture and colorful characters.

    34th St., Bur Dubai, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Some stores closed 1--4
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  • 11. Wild Wadi Water Park

    Jumeirah Beach

    Dubai's premier water park, Wild Wadi covers 12 acres and abuts Jumeirah Beach in the shadow of the Burj Al-Arab hotel. There are 30 rides and other watery attractions here, including the Jumeirah Scierah (a 50-mph, high-adrenaline chute) and artificial wave rides (Riptide Flowrider and The Wipeout) that were designed by industry leader Thomas Lochtefel. Wild Wadi Water Park has its own artificial beach at Breakers Bay, and cabanas that can be booked to provide a home base for a large family. There is a good range of rides for all ages, including a large children's area suitable for very little ones.

    Jumeirah Rd., Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    4-348–4444

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: 275 dirhams for adults, 230 for kids under 1.1 m tall, Guests of Jumeirah hotels in Dubai get complimentary access
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  • 12. Al Mamzar Beach Park

    Deira

    Deira Corniche, Al Mamzar, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    4-296–6201

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: AED 5 per person, AED 30 per vehicle, Mon. and Wed. women only, AED 200 per day for chalet rental, AED 10 for pool
  • 13. Al Shindagha historic neighborhood

    The South Bank

    A spit of land that protects the south side of the creek entrance holds a restored historic center that contains three key sites: the Diving Village, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, and the Heritage Village. The Diving Village explores Dubai's pearl diving industry, along with other traditional maritime activities—you'll be able to see boat building, net making, and other handcrafts in action. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House was built in 1896 and was the residence of Al Maktoum ruling family till 1958 and is now a museum displaying a rare photographic collection of the sheikhs and the changing times of Dubai. Most of the house can be explored, and its cool neutral interior is a reminder of life in the city before air-conditioning and designer labels. Heritage Village is a life-size diorama that takes visitors through the various buildings and traditions that have been historically common in the region. Walk through agricultural yards, stone buildings, barasti huts and tents, and observe traditional medicine, jewelry making, and blacksmithing. There are other monuments and buildings in the area to explore, and the creekfront is lined with Arabic restaurants.

    Al Khaleej Rd., Bur Dubai, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    4-393--7151

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Free
  • 14. Arabian Tea House

    The South Bank

    In the historic Al Fahidi district, this alfresco only café is a perfect pit-stop while trawling the souks and Dubai Museum. Service is slow, but you might enjoy a bit of time-wasting while sitting in the traditional shaded courtyard on plump wicker chairs or browsing the local art and crafts they display for sale. Food is pan-Arabic, with the best dishes offered up until 12:30 for breakfast. Enjoy with a wide range of tea, juice, and smoothies. No alcohol served..

    Al Fahidi St., Bur Dubai, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    4-353–5071

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Best not to visit in mid-summer as there is no a/c
  • 15. Burj Al Arab

    Jumeirah Beach

    The building of the Burj Al Arab put Dubai on the map. The hotel has triumphed since its opening in 1999, and its eye-catching exterior has been featured in numerous design magazines. It was said to be the world's first seven-star hotel, but its owner (Jumeirah Hotels) insists that it's only five-star luxe—the highest possible quality under the current rating system. Designed by Thomas Wills Wright of Atkins Group, the metal and glass structure is perched on a small, artificial offshore island. The graceful curves, in classy blue and white, mimic the sail of a dhow billowing in the wind. The interior (designed by Kuan Chew of KCA International) by contrast is a riot of color, gilt, and finery. The atrium in particular is a sight to behold, with 590 feet of rainbow hues and curved interior terraces, tropical aquariums, and dancing water features. If you want to get inside, or even cross the bridge to the burj island, you'll need some form of booking. There are many restaurants with various offers, Sky Bar or Gold on 27 are at the top and provide the best views, or Scape on the terrace is perfect for some ocean-side dining. For those who want to study the interior, Sahn Eddar serve a lavish afternoon tea in the atrium. Some other Jumeirah hotels (e.g., the Jumeirah Beach hotel) may help you out with a tour if you are not interested in dining.

    Jumeirah Rd., Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    4-301–7777

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: From 250 dirhams for dining packages
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  • 16. Creekside Park

    The South Bank

    This 221-acre green space is the largest in the downtown area and offers a 1.6-mile walk along Bur Dubai's creek side, by a botanical garden, manicured flower beds, and stretches of shady lawns where families gather on weekends for fresh air and a picnic. The park also contains a cable car, with a 20-minute one-way journey that gives you a bird's-eye view of the park and surrounding areas. Bicycles for hire, a minitrain, go-karts, and minigolf can also entertain the little ones. Accessible from only inside the park you will also find the Dubai Dolphinarium (with daily aquatic shows), and Children's City, a science-themed children's museum.

    Riyadh Rd., Umm Hurair, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    4-336–7633

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: AED5, Daily 9 am–11 pm; Wed. only women admitted
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  • 17. Dhow Boatyards

    The South Bank

    It might be the age of container ships, but, as can be seen toward the mouth of the Dubai creek, old wooden dhows are still very much a part of Dubai's thriving import/export industry. It's still possible to view the manual building of these vessels along the banks of Dubai Creek. Each dhow builder eyes the length and width of wooden planks needed to create the curving shape of the bow, then produces it with no plans and few modern tools. Be sure to watch your step if you visit the yards. They aren't common tourist attractions and construction materials and equipment are often left lying around. Those who wish to play it safe can view from the other side of the creek. At sunset, the terrace bar of the Intercontinental Festival City provides a contrasting silhouette of the dhow skeletons set before the spiky skyscrapers of the DIFC. While culturally significant, this area tends to be dangerous.

    Sheikh Rashid Rd., Jaddaf, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Free, Note this is not an official tourist area, Daily dawn–dusk
  • 18. Dhow Wharves

    The North Bank

    Cooking oil heading for Somalia, refrigerators for Iran, and used cars for countries around the Gulf—all of these goods and more are piled high on wooden dhows at the commercial wharf. A stroll around the wharves highlights Dubai's continued importance as a merchant city and offers insights into the low-tech trade that supplies much of the region, from the east coast of Africa to the west coast of the Indian subcontinent. This is not a primped-up tourist attraction; it's a workaday dock, so be aware of trucks and lifting equipment operating in the area.

    Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
  • 19. Dubai Museum

    The South Bank

    The tiny Al Fahidi fort was built in 1787 to protect the port from marauding landward tribes and seafaring pirates. During the 20th century the fort fell into disrepair, but the coral stone and stucco walls were restored, and today it hosts Dubai's national museum. Upon entering the museum, you step back in time to before the discovery of oil and the arrival of container ships. A series of cleverly designed subterranean spaces take you through the daily life of Dubai's past. For instance, you can stroll through a life-size re-creation of the creekside wharfs and souks, where lifelike figures include fishermen, pearl traders, spice merchants, and metal workers. The sights and sounds of different trades come to life in original sound tracks that play in the background, and with the help of projected images, life-size figures appear as though they're performing tasks. Here, you can feel the excitement and energy of what was once one of the Arab world's most exciting port towns. The final series of galleries, before the gift shop and museum exit, holds cases of artifacts found on archaeological digs around the emirate. The earliest ones date from the 3rd millennium BC, and include human remains from ritual burials and such grave goods as spearheads.

    Al Fahidi St., Bur Dubai, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    4-353--1862

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: AED3, Sat.–Thurs. 8:30–8:30, Fri. 2:30pm–8:30pm
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  • 20. Falcon & Heritage Centre

    World Trade Centre

    Hunting with falcons and keeping birds of prey is a common pastime in Arabic desert culture. This center is the only place in Dubai where birds may be legally sold. It's also a one-stop shop for all a falconer's needs, including dietary supplements, books, hoods, and lures. Most of the 20 or so stores in the center also have a range of birds on show, and you can learn about them from the knowledgeable store owners or at the small on-site museum.

    Muscat St., Nad al-Sheba, Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
    4-327--2854

    Sight Details

    Rate Includes: Free, Closed Fri. and Sat.; reduced hrs during Ramadan, Tour guides available 8--2

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