Things to Do & Places to Visit in Dubai
This desert metropolis is a haven for thrill seekers and shoppers alike. Only in Dubai can you float in a sky-high rooftop terraced pool, sandboard in the desert dunes and shop in the world’s largest mall.
Sights and Attractions in Dubai
For the grand modern architecture we’ve come to associate with Dubai, don’t miss the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, which offers breathtaking views across the city. Next, visit the Burj Al Arab an iconic sail-shaped hotel with a spectacular coastal view and then head over to the Dubai Frame to walk across a 150-metre-high sky glass bridge offering a twilight-to-night transition view of old and new Dubai. Looking down on Dubai from skyscrapers is only half the fun. For something more extravagant, opt for a helicopter ride, or even a hot air balloon or seaplane, to grab those gorgeous aerial shots. For adventurous travellers: a high-speed catamaran offers panoramic views of the coastal skyline. Away from the towering city, a quiet stroll around Dubai Creek is the perfect way to take in the bygone era of Dubai’s early settlement. Visit the old Al Fahidi Fort, Al Shindagha area and Dubai Heritage Village each filled with historic wonders.
Art and Culture in Dubai
Formerly known as Bastakiya, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood was once the historical Persian quarter of Dubai. A visit to its winding lanes, courtyard residences and vertical wind towers is worthwhile for its popular art scene, including Dubai’s first art galleries – The Majlis Gallery and XVA. Contemporary art fans could find themselves in the more industrial area of Al Quoz for galleries like The Third Line and Alserkal Avenue. For an insight into how future technology could solve environmental, social and cultural issues of our planet, an immersive trip into the future at the aptly named Museum Of The Future.
Shopping in Dubai
For a quintessential shopping trip, visit the many souks of Dubai. Wander down the Bur Dubai Textile Souk for intricately sewn-on beaded fabrics and traditional slippers before heading over to an old abra pier to ferry across Dubai Creek. Once you hit the Spice Souk, the pleasant incense aromas from burning bakhoors will surround every stall as you walk by. Immerse yourself in the colourful lanes of the Grand Souk Deira which offers traditional Arab products including perfumes and embroidered shawls. If you’re looking for gold jewellery, a visit to the Gold Souk is a must. To beat the intense desert heat, venture into the expansive Dubai Mall for glamourous luxury brands aplenty. Too much to carry? No problem, the Mall’s delivery service will drop your shopping back at your hotel, leaving your hands free to take on the Mall’s more unique experiences. From ice skating and VR arcade games, to walking under a 48-metre-long aquarium tunnel, there’s plenty to keep you entertained. Adventurous travellers could try Sky Views Edge Walk which overlooks downtown Dubai from 219.5 metres above. And those in need of a true cool down should head to the Mall of the Emirates for indoor skiing complete with a penguin encounter.
Food and Drink in Dubai
Dubai hosts a diversity of multicultural eateries, find Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen and Bar, Nobu Matsuhisa’s Nobu, and Michelin starred Chef Andy Toh’s Hakkasan in the fantastically charming Atlantis, The Palm. Chic Japanese restaurant Zuma is a great spot for izakaya-style private dining or a weekend Baikingu brunch. Those who want to experience more excitable flavours should visit Peruvian restaurant, COYA which offers a vast selection of traditional Peruvian cocktails and menus that comes complete with unparalleled sounds from COYA’s resident DJ. Take advantage of sweeping views as you drink at Jumeirah Mina A’Salam’s Bahri Bar, the Burj Al Arab’s Skyview Bar on the 27th floor, and Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Finance Centre’s rooftop terrace bar, Luna Dubai.
Unique to Dubai
Known for its luxurious accommodation, extravagant lifestyle and divine architecture, Dubai has built a strong reputation since its days of being a small fishing and pearl diving settlement. Nowadays, the laidback lifestyle means convenience is part of daily life – you want it, Dubai has got it. Desert Safari Dubai offers desert tours with either racing quad bikes, traditional camel rides, or family-friendly cars to see the picturesque sunset horizon. Bold travellers could try sandboarding along the many sand-swept thrilling dunes. If you’re looking for a quieter activity, join local families barbecuing and playing cricket at Creek Park’s waterfront. For those travelling with children, head over to The Butterfly Garden at Dubai Miracle Garden which houses 15,000 butterflies in custom-built domes. Keep a look out for the Guinness World Record-breaking floral rendition of an Airbus A380 aircraft also in the garden grounds. Alternatively, head to the beachside oasis of Jumeirah where stays at Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah and Four Seasons Dubai at Jumeirah Beach include the best ocean views from its beachfront.
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