Dubai is becoming very popular as a tourist destination in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), but few Americans can pinpoint the city’s location on a map.
Some friends and family have never heard of Dubai, while others mistakenly consider it a sovereign nation. It makes sense, as the area has recently become popular with tourists.
As a central transfer point for flights between Asia and Europe, this Middle Eastern city sees a lot of travellers every day. After consulting this location guide, it will help put things in perspective.
Where Is Dubai, Exactly?
Dubai is in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), so that’s where we’ll begin.
The United Arab Emirates (shown in red) is a Middle Eastern country with an Asian location. Oman, Saudi Arabia, and the Persian Gulf are their neighbouring countries.
Dubai Is in What Part of the United Arab Emirates?
The next thing to do is look at a map of the UAE and find Dubai (it’s in red).
The largest emirate, Abu Dhabi, is in the south, while Dubai and four other smaller emirates are in the northeast. Among the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is the most populous.
Areas Of Dubai
There are six unique neighbourhoods in Dubai.
Here’s a quick summary of what you can expect to find in each Dubai neighbourhood:
- Deira Clocktower and the Deira Gold and Perfume Souks – Deira is also home to the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club.
- Hatta – an exclave (territories surrounded by another state) with beautiful mountains, forts, kayaking, and camping.
- Several amusement parks are in Jebel Ali, a seaport near Dubai. The site might be Dubai’s next mega airport.
- The Palm Jumeirah and the Burj Al-Arab Hotel in the district of Jumeirah – Two of Dubai’s most iconic structures,
How Would You Describe Dubai?
Dubai has an abundance of high-end hotels and shopping malls, and for being home to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Outside of Dubai, the United Arab Emirates has many attractions, like Ferrari World and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.
Dubai is a futuristic metropolis constructed in the desert. Because of the arid climate, the weather is hot and dry all year long. November through March are the most pleasant time to visit Dubai if you worry about the temperature.
Extreme heat is standard in the midst of summer. The heat index in July and August could reach 49 degrees Celsius (120 degrees Fahrenheit), and shade will be hard to come by.
The United Arab Emirates is predominantly Muslim, but visitors of other faiths are welcome. Both terrorist attacks and criminal activity have vanished entirely from this country. The conservative nature of Emirati society necessitates that women dress modestly in public.
Even though Dubai is home to many five-star hotels, a vacation there need not break the bank. On average, Meals can cost $10-15, and you can rent private rooms for as little as USD 50 per night.
If you want to rent a car in Dubai, we recommend using DiscoverCars. Apps like Uber and Careem make it easy to travel short distances, and you can use Uber Eats to have food delivered anywhere in Dubai.
Here Are the 25 Top Attractions and Activities in Dubai.
With its impressive skyline and abundance of five-star hotels, restaurants, and shopping, Dubai is the fourth most visited city in the world.
The Palm Jumeirah and the Burj Khalifa have surpassed the Burj Al Arab as the city’s most recognisable landmark. Undoubtedly, this city is on the rise because of the constant development of cutting-edge skyscrapers and fascinating tourist attractions.
The following article will take you on a tour of some of Dubai’s most popular attractions, each brimming with fun things to do. The indoor aquatic wonderland, the theatre, and the world’s most extensive gardens and markets make this a vacation unlike any other.
The city has everything one could want, including beautiful beaches, quiet places to spend time with friends and family, culturally diverse restaurants, and a pulsating nightlife scene.
1. The Miracle Garden in Dubai, the World’s Largest Flower Park.
The Miracle Garden is a popular tourist attraction in the heart of Dubai. Tourists flock there because it holds the Guinness World Record for the most extensive natural floral garden. The garden, over 72,000 square meters, is home to more than 45 million colourful blooms.
The garden’s many flower-based sculptures and constructions are a flower clock, a giant teddy bear, and an Emirates A380 aeroplane. Features: Dubai Miracle Garden is closed to the public from May through September because of the extreme heat.
Opening Hours: Weekends from 9 AM to 11.
2. Dubai’s Old City, Bastakiya.
You can see a different side of Dubai in Bastakiya, the Al Fahidi Historic District, and Al Bastakiya.
Al Fahidi Fort and Dubai Creek are within walking distance, making this an ideal location for exploring the city’s historic district. Anyone curious about Dubai’s rich history and contemporary culture owes it to themselves to visit the Al Bastakiya landmark district.
If you’re interested in Arabian architecture or history or want to escape the city, this is the perfect place. The Bastak district got its name because many of its original residents came from that province in Iran. The area was once a hub for the trade of pearls and textiles but has since become affluent families’ homes.
Due to its historical significance, Al Bastakiya has been the subject of a restoration project initiated by the government of Dubai in the 1980s.
Taking a heritage walk through the maze-like streets, learning about traditional Arabic architecture, finding the most distinctive features of the buildings (the ‘barjeels’ or wind towers), eating at local restaurants, and shopping are all excellent things to do here.
Opening Hours: 7 AM to 8 PM
3. In the Heart of Deira, at the “Deira Souk,” the Largest Gold Market in the World.
Deira is the most popular of Dubai’s many souks (markets), but the city is home to many others.
This market, situated near Dubai Creek, established in the 1830s, has some original building features, such as wooden arches, that are still visible today. Tourists flock there because it is a hub for the international trade of spices, herbs, dried fruits, nuts, and genuine Arabic perfumes.
The gold souk is the world’s largest gold market, filled with gold shops selling jewellery. In addition to gold, spices, and perfumes, the souk sells textiles, rugs, traditional clothing, and souvenirs. Tourists can taste authentic Arabic cuisine by purchasing sweets and snacks from street vendors.
Mornings at Deira Souk are much more tranquil than the rest of the day.
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM to 9:30 PM (4:00 PM to 9:30 PM on Fridays)
4. Regarding Marine Life, the Dubai Aquarium Has no Competition.
Find one of the world’s largest indoor aquariums, the Dubai Aquarium, in the city’s heart at the Dubai Mall. More than 33,000 marine animals are here, representing more than 140 species.
The aquarium is a popular tourist attraction and an important marine conservation and education tool.
The aquarium’s marine biologists and specialists engage in several conservation and research projects that teach the public the importance of preserving marine ecosystems.
In addition to the Tunnel and Underwater Zoo, other attractions at the aquarium include the Tropical Rainforest and the Rocky Shore.
Guests can walk through a tunnel where sharks, stingrays, and schools of fish swim just inches from their feet. Experience exotic primates, reptiles, and even predators up close and personal on a virtual tour of the Dubai Aquarium’s VR Zoo.
Opening Hours:
- Starting at 10 AM on Mondays through Thursdays to 11 PM.
- Starting at 10 AM on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays until midnight
5. Party Round the Clock In The Global Village
One of Dubai’s most popular destinations, Global Village, is great for family outings. The village comes to life at night thanks to thousands of decorative light bulbs.
Pavilions showcasing the cultural offerings of various nations make this an unmissable destination. People from all walks of life congregate there to socialise and experience something of each other’s heritage, customs, and cuisine.
The Global Village is one of the most significant cultural festivals in the world, covering an area of 17 million square feet every season. There are displays of culture, cuisine, and wares from more than 75 countries.
Visitors can mingle with locals from all over the world as they explore the various pavilions, sharing in conversation, art, and music as they do so.
The Egypt pavilion sells antiquities and traditional Egyptian clothing (Jalabiya). In contrast, the Oman pavilion sells clothing, the China pavilion sells bright flowery outfits, and the Africa pavilion sells hand-carved artifacts.
Finish off the perfect night with a bite to eat from around the globe, then browse the Iranian pavilion for a magnificent carpet or the Indian and Pakistani booths for some traditional clothing.
Dubai’s Global Village is open to tourists annually from October to April.
Opening Hours:
- 4 PM – 12 AM on Sunday to Wednesday
- 4 PM – 1 AM on Thursday to Saturday
6. The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve – Home to the Endangered Arabian Gazelle.
It would help if you took a break from your city tour in Dubai to check out one of the city’s many natural tourist attractions. For instance, the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is a world-famous wildlife destination where visitors can see native species of animals.
You can spot sand gazelles, mountain gazelles, and Arabian oryx in this region. Even if you only have a day to sightsee, a travel guide or tour operator can help you see the highlights of this 225-square-kilometre park, which has four distinct areas.
However, you may enjoy the remaining three at their luxurious wildlife lodge.
DDCR desert safaris run from 9 AM to 11 PM and cost between INR 2,795 and INR 11,180 per person, depending on the time of year and the guest’s age.
Accessible At All Times
7. Alserkal Art District: Home to Creatives and Art Admirers
The Alserkal Art District in Dubai is rapidly gaining popularity among art lovers and connoisseurs.
During your stay, you can check out some of the best modern art galleries in the country, including the Ayyam Gallery, Green Art Gallery, and The Third Line.
This area serves as a platform for emerging artists, displaying some truly stunning works. Alserkal Art District also hosts a wide selection of mom-and-pop restaurants and shops selling clothing by independent designers and artists.
Compared to other tourist hotspots, this one has a livelier vibe. January is notable for the many festivals held in the Alserkal Art District.
Highlights: If you want to attend festivals in the Alserkal Art District, January is the ideal time to visit.
Opening Hours: 10 AM – 7 PM
8. The Dubai Opera, a Serious Cultural and Humorous Venue
There’s a lot to do in Dubai, but if you only do one thing, make it the Dubai Opera in the Middle of town.
Suppose you’re looking for something to do in the evening in Dubai. In that case, you should check out one of the many performances available, ranging from opera and ballet to comedy nights and concerts featuring everything from jazz to classical instruments.
The Dubai Opera is a remarkable structure that can house 2,000 cultural vultures. It doesn’t matter what time of year you visit; there will always be a musical to see.
Take your loved ones to a restaurant with a breathtaking view and delicious cuisine worldwide.
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 9 PM
There’s a lot to do in Dubai, but if you only do one thing, make it the Dubai Opera in the Middle of town.
Suppose you’re looking for something to do in the evening in Dubai. In that case, you should check out one of the many performances available, ranging from opera and ballet to comedy nights and concerts featuring everything from jazz to classical instruments.
The Dubai Opera is an architectural wonder that can hold 2,000 theatregoers. You can take in a show at one of the city’s many musical theatres at any time of year. Additionally, there is a fantastic rooftop eatery that serves up tasty meals.
9. The Bur Dubai Grand Mosque, One of Dubai’s Architectural Marvels
You will find many different faiths in Dubai’s population, and the city features numerous places of worship. The Grand Mosque is still the city’s most frequented house of prayer.
This architectural marvel, the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates and one of the eight largest mosques in the world, was the site of the first memorial service held in honour of the late Sheikh Zayed, the former president of the United Arab Emirates.
At night, this Dubai landmark glows a majestic blue, making it hard to imagine any visitor to the city unimpressed. It’s no wonder this famous site is one of the most photographed locations on the planet.
The leaf-shaped, ground-facing pillars of the mosque have 24-karat gold.
When entering the mosque, both men and women must dress appropriately. Women should wear long-sleeved, flowy dresses.
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 10 PM (4:30 PM – 10 PM on Fridays)
10. The Dubai Museum: Where Legendary Art and Historical Relics Call Home
The Dubai Museum is on the same grounds as the city’s oldest building, Al Fahidi Fort, making it convenient for history buffs.
This book traces Dubai’s development from a sleepy fishing village to its modern, progressive state. Inside, you’ll find pictures and artifacts illustrating the sea’s importance to the pre-oil Bedouin way of life.
The Dubai Museum houses several fascinating antiquity artifacts and is worth visiting. Those curious about Arabia’s nomadic past would do well to bring their offspring (and offspring’s offspring) here for a fascinating educational experience.
Highlights: Adult admission to the Dubai Museum is INR 66 (approximately USD 9), and child admission is INR 22 (about USD 4).
Opening Hours: 8:30 AM – 8:30 PM (2:30 PM – 8:30 PM) on Fridays
11. Aquaventure Waterpark: The Biggest Waterpark in the World, With No Limits on Entertainment
Aquaventure is one of the world’s largest and most visited water parks for a good reason: it boasts an impressive collection of rides and shows, a picture-perfect setting, and unforgettable interactions with marine life.
There is fun for the whole family at this waterpark on 17 acres of Palm Jumeirah Island next to the luxurious Atlantis, The Palm resort.
The waterpark has many kid-friendly features that make it ideal for families, including a playground, a water fortress, and Splashers Island.
There is room for up to six riders on the Aquaconda, making it the most giant waterslide in the world.
Adult day passes begin at around INR 6,500, while child passes start at around INR 5,500.
Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 6 PM
12. You Can Visit the Dubai Dolphinarium and Swim With Dolphins!
Visit the Dubai Dolphinarium with your kids for a fun and educational day out, whether it’s your first time there or you’ve been there a dozen times. The dolphin and marine animal presentations will captivate and motivate even the most jaded visitors.
The state-of-the-art facility in one of Dubai’s significant parks (Creek Park) has beautiful scenery and should be on every visitor’s itinerary.
The dolphins at the Dubai Dolphinarium are the show’s stars, and visitors come from all over the world to watch them perform.
Visitors should participate in the presentations by, for example, feeding the dolphins and swimming alongside them.
Visitors can also see around 20 exotic bird species worldwide at the Exotic Bird Show.
Highlights: The average price of admission to the Dubai Dolphinarium is INR 120
Opening Hours: Open daily (except Tuesdays) from 10 AM to 7:30 PM.
13. Visit the Dubai Safari Park to Get Up Close to Amazing Animals.
This vast wildlife reserve and conservation centre is home to many animals, including some very close to extinction.
The park’s expansive 119 acres have numerous habitat zones, each home to a unique set of animals.
The park has four main areas: Africa, Asia, Arabia, and Safari Village. African wildlife includes the lion, tiger, leopard, cheetah, giraffe, zebra, and hippopotamus, among many others.
Visitors to the Safari Village petting zoo can interact with various domesticated animals.
The Dubai Safari Park is well-known for its many live shows, such as the Birds Show and Amazing Creatures of the World, as well as the Giraffe Feeding, Birds Feeding, and Goat Feeding.
Opening Hours: 9 AM – 5 PM
14. Visit the Jumeirah Mosque to Learn More About Islam and Emirati Culture.
Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is home to the stunning Jumeirah Mosque.
Located in the upscale Jumeirah district, the mosque is one of the world’s finest examples of Islamic architecture. The mosque is a stunning display of Islamic architecture, with its ornate design and pristine white exterior.
Visitors of all faiths are welcome at the Jumeirah Mosque, and tours are available six days a week (Sunday through Thursday). Touring the mosque will give visitors unique opportunities to learn more about Islam and Emirati culture.
Tours of the mosque are by volunteers who are knowledgeable about Islam and give talks to curious onlookers.
The journey also includes a stop at the ablution area and an opportunity to learn more about the mosque and Islam. The Jumeirah Mosque is an essential stop for any visitor to Dubai interested in Islamic art and architecture.
All guests are welcome to visit the Jumeirah Mosque at no cost. A guided tour, however, will cost the typical tourist about INR 550. Ladies, please bring your scarves, as all attendees should dress modestly.
Opening Hours: 10 AM-8 PM but Closed on Fridays
15. Jumeirah Beach
Jumeirah Beach has everything luxury-seeking vacationers could want clear blue waters, white sand beaches, and breathtaking views of the Burj Al Arab.
Visitors to this clean beach can swim, sunbathe, play water sports, or even play a game of volleyball.
Guests can choose from five-star hotels and resorts immediately adjacent to the beach.
Tourists to Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach can do more than lie in the sand; they can also explore the city’s rich history and exciting present.
The adjacent Jumeirah Mosque is one of the few mosques in Dubai that offers guided tours to non-Muslim visitors.
The Dubai Marina, with its many restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions, is also nearby. Jumeirah Beach, in Dubai, attracts many visitors because of its beautiful beach and variety of cultural events.
Many different types of tourist services are along Jumeirah Beach. Enjoy the sea and then try some local eateries and grocery stores. The public restrooms and changing areas at this beach are spotless and regularly maintained.
Opening Hours: 7:30 AM to 10 PM (Closed on Thursdays and Fridays)
If You Visit Dubai, These Are the Ten Things You Must Do
Beyond its well-known tourist attractions, Dubai has much more to offer. Here are some of our best recommendations for an unforgettable vacation.
1. Helicopter Ride Over Dubai
A helicopter ride over the city is the most exciting thing in Dubai, even more so than skydiving or going to the Burj Khalifa’s observation deck.
In just 30 minutes, you can see the entire city of Dubai from above, from the Burj Khalifa to the World Islands to the beautiful Palm Jumeirah.
2. Visit Some of Dubai’s Many Malls.
After sightseeing, visit the city’s best malls and markets for retail therapy.
Dubai Mall, one of the most visited places in Dubai, is a shopper’s dream thanks to its wide variety of high-end stores, including Cartier, Louis Vuitton, Armani, Chanel, Burberry, and many more.
Tourists and regular residents prefer the more reasonably priced Dubai Outlet Mall to the city’s exclusive shopping destinations, Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates.
If you’re looking for a shopping experience that harkens back to the Renaissance in France, Italy, and Spain, look no further than the Mercato Mall in Jumeirah.
3. Indoor Skydiving Is Available at Ifly Dubai, Located in the Mirdif City Centre.
While many people think skydiving is a thrilling outdoor activity, only the bravest among us would ever jump out of a perfect aeroplane at an altitude of 3657.6 feet. However, if you ease into it, you can do so at iFly Dubai, Mirdif City Centre.
One of the best indoor adventure centres in the United Arab Emirates, thanks to a 10-meter acrylic glass tunnel and a twin vertical wind tunnel.
It’s great for older kids and adults, but even three-year-olds can join the fun. If you want to avoid crowds, the best time to visit is on a weekday, when fewer eager people will wait in line.
4. Take a Camel Ride Through the Dubai Desert for a Fun Day Trip
Going on a camel safari through the Arabian desert is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Dubai. One of the most iconic activities in Dubai, a camel ride through the desert is a must for any traveller to the United Arab Emirates.
The peaceful and pleasant camel ride compares with the challenging and exhilarating sport of 44 dune dashing.
Camel riding in Dubai could be a memorable experience for kids because it is something only some people do regularly.
For more information on safari packages, you can check out our sister site or the hotel where you are staying in Dubai.
5. Enjoy the Calm Seas of Abra
Dubai residents can take the traditional Abra Ride for free instead of paying for a tourist boat tour. This popular and convenient method of transportation can carry as many as 20 people between Deira and Bur Dubai.
The best part is that the boat’s design allows for unobstructed cityscape views, so you can’t help but stare as you pass by. Simply put, it’s a terrific way to see the city without spending a fortune.
6. Wild Wadi Water Park: It’s a Splash!
One of the best Dubai amusement parks, Wild Wadi, dedicates solely to heart-pounding roller coasters.
Located in Jumeirah, this unique tourist spot is always bustling with vacationing families, and the best part is that all the rides in the park suit the needs of any visitor.
Wild Wadi has over 30 attractions to keep you occupied if you’re not the type to float lazily down the Lazy River. The 20-meter tandem slides at Jumeirah Sceirah reach up to 80 kilometres per hour, so only the brave should attempt them.
The Riptide Flowriders, Wipeout, and Tantrum Alley are also worth a look. New attractions are constantly built, so there may be more to choose from when you get there.
7. Take a Stroll on the Soft Sands of Jumeirah Beach.
You can find a lively scene, full of locals and visitors alike, at Jumeirah Beach, on the coast of Dubai Marina. This particular beach is a hotspot for tourists in Dubai.
Relax on the beach with a drink from one of the many nearby restaurants after a day of water sports like jet skiing, water skiing, paragliding, or surfing. Spend a few hours here soaking up the winter sun and relaxing under a desert sky as golden as the Burj Al Arab.
The white sands of Dubai’s beaches are just a short walk from any of the city’s many five-star hotels and spa resorts.
8. The Dubai Fountain Hosts a Spectacular Light Show Featuring Dancing Fountains.
The Dubai Fountain features a light show with dancing fountains that you can see from under the Burj Khalifa. The Dubai Fountain is so impressive that it requires an out loud “wow” to take in fully.
You will find 35 Arabic and English songs in the daily shows at Dubai Fountain. It has a maximum lifting capacity of 140 meters (about 45 stories).
The Dubai Fountain is a must-see attraction and one of the city’s most recognisable symbols.
Few things are more photogenic than a leisurely boat ride on a calm lake.
9. Take Some Time for Afternoon Tea at the Burj Al Arab.
It is possible to enjoy afternoon tea at the Burj Al Arab, one of Dubai’s most luxurious hotels, even if you cannot afford to stay there.
There are two great cafes in the Burj Al Arab where you can enjoy tea and tasty snacks while looking out over the city.
Skyview Bar, located on the 27th floor, is where you should be to have the time of your life. The best time to stop in and enjoy the wide selection of coffees and teas and the tasty baked goods, sandwiches, and cakes is on a Friday. Having a clear view of the Palm Jumeirah is the cherry on top.
You can also enjoy afternoon tea at the hotel’s Sahn Eddar on the ground floor, boasting stunning views of the world’s tallest atrium.
10. Take the Subway or the Skywalk to Admire Sheikh Zayed Road
Walking or riding the subway along this route can leave an indelible impression due to the sight of the gleaming steel skyscrapers on either side.
The Dubai World Trade Tower’s observation deck is slightly cheaper than the Burj Khalifa’s and offers breathtaking views of the city’s central business district and eight-lane freeway. It is also where you’ll find many of Dubai’s best-known malls.
As you can see, Dubai is a fantastic city with many attractions, but it is not a budget-friendly vacation destination.
You should think about something other than where to spend your money in Dubai; the city’s glittering malls and high-end eateries are so impressive that ignoring them would be impolite.