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1. Sightseeing
1.1 Burj Khalifa
- Location: Burj Park
- Tickets: AED 359
Burj Khalifa is a record-breaking achievement. It is the tallest building in the world, at 828 meters (2,717 feet). It includes observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors, where visitors can view incredible panoramic views of Dubai. This magnificent structure is one of the defining features of modern Dubai and boasts a visually striking design that employs motifs from Islamic art.
Note: To avoid long queues, it is always advisable to book tickets before your visit, especially during peak tourist periods.
1.2 Dubai Fountain
- Location: Downtown Dubai
- Tickets: AED 65.00
This is the largest choreographed fountain system found at the base of Burj Khalifa. The Dubai Fountain is unique as the fountain has water jets up to 150 meters which dance to the tune of music accompanied by the touch of lights. Daily shows are performed, and visitors can witness and enjoy a unique and captivating show.
Note: The best viewing positions are either from the seaside or from the Dubai Mall.
1.3 Palm Jumeirah
- Location: Palm Beach
- Tickets: Visitors do not need an entrance ticket for the boardwalk.
Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island in the form of a palm tree. Filled with luxurious accommodations and mouthwatering cuisine, this destination is ideal for any traveler in search of relaxation and elegance. Popular tourist attractions include the Atlantis, and the Palm Hotel with well over a thousand rooms with breathtaking views.
Note: You may consider taking a monorail, which will take you along the palm tree’s trunk so you can have a good look at the place.
1.4 Burj Al Arab
- Location: Umm Suqeim 3
- Tickets: AED 100
Burj Al Arab is a luxurious hotel with an С-shape sail design, which is considered to be the only seven-star hotel in the world. It provides a wonderful opportunity to travel in real comfort and be served as you expect. It offers tourist fine dining options including excellent restaurants, or take an afternoon tea.
Note: The restaurant requires reservation and usually, people cannot just walk into the hotel unless they are guests or those who have booked the restaurant to eat.
1.5 Dubai Frame
- Location: Zabeel Park
- Tickets: AED 50 for adults and AED 20 for children under the age of 12 during non-peak hours
Due to its height of 150 meters, it provides a rather unconventional frame that at the same time captures both the old and the new aspects of the city. Thus, the Dubai Frame offers great views of the contrast between the old and the new in Dubai. They also have a glass bridge at the top where one can get nice views of the surrounding areas.
Note: It’s best to visit during the early evening when the light is fading so that the full effect of the colors can be enjoyed.
1.6 Dubai Marina
- Location: 3km stretch of shoreline, Dubai Marina
- Activities: Yatch tours, zipline, jet-ski, parasail, live music.
The man-made structure features yacht accommodations and restaurants surrounding a waterfront. The area of Dubai Marina contains many restaurants, shops, and entertainment establishments, with a lively ambiance, especially at night. Marina Walk is well suited for relaxation and walking along the water.
Note: It is recommended to hire a yacht or take a yacht cruise if you want to fully capture the essence of the Dubai skyline.
1.7 Global Village
- Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
- Tickets: AED 30
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A cultural and entertainment extravaganza that will be conducted seasonally. Pavilions are set up for various countries where food, beverages, souvenirs, and performances are exhibited. It is an attractive festive event that promotes cultural diversity and the exchange of customs from different parts of the world.
Note: During October 1-April 1, check for special events and feasts that might affect opening hours.
1.8 Kite Beach
- Location: Jumeirah 3, Umm Suqeim 1.
- Tickets: AED 100
One of the famous tourist attractions of Dubai is this public beach where water activities are famously practiced. These are the activities that one can engage in, including kite surfing, beach volleyball, and jogging. It is also lined with food trucks and cafes.
Note: On weekends, it gets crowded so it is better to be there early if you want to have a better position.
1.9 Jumeirah Beach
- Location: Jumeirah Road, Umm Suqeim 3.
- Tickets: It’s free to visit the public beaches.
This is a beautiful beach that is usually open for public use and has a magnificent view of the Burj Al Arab. Jumeirah Beach is well suited for sun and fun, swimming, and all kinds of beach-related activities. Jumeirah Beach is clean and equipped with different amenities for tourists.
Note: It is thus safe for families with lifeguards always on duty to patrol the beach.
1.10 Al Fahidi Historic District
- Location: Al Fahidi, Dubai
- Tickets: No entry fees
This is an area designated for the preservation of the historic and cultural architecture of the Emirate. Al Fahidi has a concentration of narrow lanes, wind towers, and art galleries that avail the pre-modern aspect of Dubai. It also contains the Dubai Museum, libraries, and other organizations related to arts and culture.
Note: To make the visit even more interesting, there are guided tours that one can take.
2. Museums and Cultural Experiences
2.1 Museum of the Future
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Rd, Trade Center.
- Tickets: AED 149.00
The vision of the technological-driven futuristic museum focused on innovation. The Museum of the Future is a place where visitors are represented by the future advanced trends across the sphere of health, transport, and the environment.
Note: It is suggested to book your tickets in advance because this is a popular tourist destination and may have busy ticket lines.
2.2 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU)
- Location: Al Musalla Rd, Bur Dubai
- Tickets: AED 35
This is a cultural center to increase awareness of Emirati culture and traditions. Tours, meals, and activities are provided at the center and every part of this museum is meant to enlighten visitors on the cultural practices of the local people.
Note: Visit the “Open Doors, Open Minds” for a more enriching cultural exchange program.
2.3 Al Shindagha Museum
- Location: Al Shindagha, Dubai Creek area.
- Tickets: From AED 35.00
This museum specifically focuses on the subject of maritime history in Dubai. The main cultural attractions found in the Al Shindagha Museum include trading history, pearl diving, and traditional boat building. It is located in Al Shindagha which is historically one of the oldest districts of Dubai.
Note: The museum lies within the preserved heritage zone; so, it is an excellent place to spend the day.
2.4 Etihad Museum
- Location: 1 Jumeirah St, Jumeirah.
- Tickets: Adult: 25 AED, Group: 20 AED, Student: 10 AED.
This museum is intended to exhibit the historical background of the United Arab Emirates. The Etihad Museum engages visitors through a variety of installations and multimedia displays that highlight the formation of the UAE.
Note: Some parts of the museum exterior are good subjects for photography as the architecture is quite spectacular.
2.5 Dubai Opera
- Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard (near Burj Khalifa), Downtown Dubai.
- Tickets: AED 75 for adults
This is a hybrid venue that stages performance arts in all forms. Dubai Opera is a venue for opera, ballet, concerts, and theater shows. It has a pleasing design resembling a dhow boat which is a form of traditional boats used in the region.
Note: Check the program list of the performances and buy tickets in advance.
2.6 The Coffee Museum
- Location: Villa 44, Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Bastakiya.
- Tickets: Entry is free.
This is a unique place that basically serves to illustrate the historical background of coffee. The primary activities for visitors include tastings, workshops, and interactive exhibitions about the importance of coffee in the Arab world inside the Coffee Museum.
Note: An excellent place for any coffee lover who wishes to expand their knowledge about coffee.
2.7 Bait Al Banat Women’s Museum
- Location: Al Sabkha, Gold Souq, Near Al Khor St, Deira.
- Tickets: AED 20 per person
A special museum in honor of the accomplishments of women in the United Arab Emirates. As a part of the exhibit, the Women’s Museum displays showcases that describe successful Emirati women and their role in the social, cultural, and historical context.
Note: It is a small but amazing museum, ideal for lovers of gender studies.
2.8 Al Marmoom Heritage Village
- Location: Al Ain Road, Al Marmoom.
- Tickets: Entry into the village is free.
This place is the remake of a traditional village that was present before forming the Federation of United Arab Emirates. Heritage Village is a unique place where tourists can listen to folklore, watch dances and performances, and familiarize themselves with the everyday work of people in the Emirate in the old days.
Note: Look for art festivals, folk shows, and classes that you may be able to attend during your vacation.
2.9 Museum of Illusions
- Location: Al Seef Street, Heritage Area, Building 17.
- Tickets: From AED 90.00
This is an ideal place for a fun experience to come face to face with the concept of optical illusions and some of the most fascinating illusional tricks and games. The Museum of Illusions in Dubai is full of life, consisting of various optical illusions and brain-teasing installations that are mostly interactive. Anyone of any age can go through the exhibit and see the rooms that distort the senses, making it a fun plan to do with friends or family members.
Note: Don’t forget to bring your camera! All the exhibits are filled with photo opportunities which will make you doubt what you are seeing.
3. Shopping
3.1 The Dubai Mall
- Location: Financial Centre Road – Downtown Dubai.
- Activities: Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, KidZania, vast multiplex cinema, cafes and restaurants, Ice Rink.
This center is one of the biggest in terms of gross leasable area and is currently the largest shopping mall in the world. Some of the attractions commonly found in the Dubai Mall include over 1,200 retail outlets, an aquarium, an ice-skating rink, and several restaurants. It is not only a satisfying shopping destination but also a famous tourist destination.
Note: Do not leave the place without visiting the Dubai Aquarium and the VR Park situated inside the mall.
3.2 Mall of the Emirates
- Location: Interchange 4, Sheikh Zayed Road – Al Barsha 1.
- Activities: Ski or snowboarding, climbing wall, Magic Planet arcade, trampoline park, multiplex cinema.
This shopping mall has a famous indoor ski resort. Mall of the Emirates has numerous shops and dining facilities to buy various products and delicious foods and drinks to enjoy. Also, it has Ski Dubai, which is the first indoor ski slope in the Middle East.
Note: Skiing and snowboarding are offered throughout the year, which makes it unbelievable being in the middle of the desert.
3.3 Gold Souk
- Location: Deira.
- The best time to visit: Sunset.
This is a type of center known as a traditional market offering various gold jewelry. The Gold Souk remains one of the most popular markets in Dubai that attracts tourists to buy gold and jewelry due to its affordability.
Note: There is often an opportunity for negotiation on prices, so do not be afraid to ask for a lower price for a product.
3.4 Spice Souk
- Location: 26 34 St, Al Ras, Deira.
- Activities: knowing aromatic herbs and spices, or tasting a wide variety of fragrant teas from all over the world.
It is a type of market that mainly sells spices and herbal products. Spice Souk is a wonderfully colorful market that is filled with pleasant smells and a wide variety of spices. Some of the items traded in the market include local spices, herbal products, and native medicines.
Note: It’s ideal for purchasing regional items and trying a taste of the cultural offerings.
3.5 Souk Madinat Jumeirah
- Location: Al Sufouh Rd.
- Activities: traditional Arabian market, handicraft stores, nail salons.
This is a contemporary marketplace that bears a resemblance to a traditional souk with a completely modernized shape. Souk Madinat Jumeirah contains small shops and cuisines and it also offers beautiful glimpses of water channels and Burj al Arab.
Note: Grab a bite at any of the restaurants that are located by the shoreline.
3.6 Dubai Outlet Mall
- Location: Al-Ain Road (Route 66).
- Activities: Amazing discounts of up to 90%, children’s entertainment area, dining options, and games at Chuck E. Cheese.
This shopping mall sells goods with special discounts lower than those of an original brand. Being a premium outlet mall, Dubai Outlet Mall hosts many globally renowned outlet brands at discounted rates making it a hot spot for shoppers.
Note: Go there during the Dubai Shopping Festival to get an added discount.
3.7 Ibn Battuta Mall
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Jebel Ali Village.
- Activities: Leading retail brands, dining options, trampoline at Sky Zone, Novo Cinemas, Bowling, or Fun City.
This center is an actualization of a shopping mall based on the experiences of the famous traveler “Ibn Battuta”. It has six themed courts, each of them characterized by the themes of different world regions, as well as different international shops, restaurants, and services.
Note: The building structure and the interior design are quite beautiful, which makes shopping even more appealing.
3.8 City Walk
- Location: Al Wasl and Al Safa Road Junction, Sheikh Zayed Rd.
- Activities: Local and international boutiques, The Green Planet, Roxy Cinemas, Escape Rooms, Al Khazzan Park, and a children’s play area.
This is a unique place of shopping and dining organized in an outdoor setting. City Walk is a beautiful shopping, dining, and entertainment destination situated in an open-air concept with street art and an edgy look.
Note: It is convenient for shoppers to eat, rest, and leisurely enjoy the atmosphere after shopping.
4. Relaxation and Well-Being
4.1 Dubai Miracle Garden
- Location: Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand Area.
- Tickets: AED100.
Here, you can visit the largest natural garden of flowers in the world. Located in Dubai, the Miracle Garden hosts fifty million flowers that are arranged in various patterns, providing a marvelous view right in the middle of the desert.
Note: It is important to note that the garden is open from November to April, so you should schedule your visit within this period.
4.2 Mushrif Park
- Location: Al Khawaneej Street, Mushrif.
- Tickets: AED3 per person, come with your car AED10.
This large park is a beautiful landscape that also segregates natural ghaf forests. Mushrif National Park allows visitors to explore, walk through fantastic trails, take picnics, and more importantly contact nature. It is inhabited by different bird species and other wild animals.
Note: Recommended for family and those who prefer a natural environment far from noisy cities.
4.3 Al Qudra Lakes
- Location: Al Qudra, Dubai.
- Tickets: Entry into Al Qudra Lake is free for everyone.
This place is a sequence of reservoirs created in the sandy territory. Al Qudra Lakes can be an ideal option for picnics, cycling, and even bird-watching. It offers accommodation for different species of birds such as the Flamingos.
Note: Pack some snacks and beverages to enjoy during a leisurely day at the lake.
4.4 The Lost Chambers Aquarium
- Address: Atlantis, The Palm, The Palm Jumeirah.
- Tickets: Start from AED 135 for adults, AED 95 for children under 8.
This underwater aquarium is situated in Atlantis, The Palm. Moving on to the much-acclaimed Lost Chambers Aquarium showcases an array of sea creatures and informative installations designed for children and families.
Note: If wanting a more unique and enriching experience, you may want to book a backstage tour.
4.5 Talise Spa
- Address: 18th floor, Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Street, Umm Suqeim 3.
- Facilities: Water Retreat, pools, jacuzzis, sauna, 26 treatment rooms, chakra stone massages, and reflexology.
If you want to spend your time relaxing in Dubai, this awe-inspiring beauty and pampering spa is situated in Madinat Jumeirah. Talise Spa delivers a range of services such as massage, facial, and wellness therapies that are performed in a soothing ambiance to let you enjoy the vacation best.
Note: Look for special offers and discounts to make it cheaper.
4.6 Dior Spa The Lana
- Address: The Lana, Marasi Drive, Business Bay.
- Facilities: five luxe rooms, one couple’s suite, micro-abrasion, Japanese beauty rituals, signature massages, and stone therapy.
This place is a fine combination of the chic and refined sophistication of French origin with the opulence of Dubai within a remarkable spa named after one of the world’s most famous fashion brands DIOR. Situated in The Lana Hotel, Dior Spa is a luxurious beauty salon in the center of Dubai, offering the best skin care and rejuvenating services. Featuring exquisite interiors reminiscent of the French Chateau, the spa uses Dior products for its range of signature treatments and promises ultimate relaxation.
Note: Schedule an appointment well in advance because spots are limited due to the popularity of this service.
4.7 SIRO One Za’abeel
- Address: Zaa’beel Street, Za’abeel 1.
- Facilities: Fitness Lab, desert bike rides, mountain treks, yoga studio, IV therapy, cryotherapy, and red-light therapy.
A wellness-oriented luxury experience in one of the most famous constructions in Dubai combining fitness with leisure. SIRO One Za’abeel offers business and leisure travelers a premium hospitality experience with upscale health and fitness amenities and services. This hotel is perfect for every person who wants to do his/her workout, get a professional trainer, or just chill after a hard-working day in the beautiful hotel’s gym and rest zones with amazing city views.
Note: The infinity pool is another attraction that must be visited to enjoy the magnificent view of the Dubai skyline.
4.8 Spa InterContinental
- Address: 4th Floor, InterContinental Dubai Festival City.
- Facilities: hand and feet treatments, Balinese massages, aromatherapy, body scrubs, body therapy baths, and special skincare technology.
A stylish lounge located in the city center specializing in professional SPA treatments with views of Dubai Creek. When it comes to relaxation, Spa InterContinental, situated in the opulent InterContinental Dubai Festival City, is the place to be with a combination of Easter and Western therapies. It has signature massages, skin courses as well as wellness programs all intending to help to re-energize the body. With comfortable interiors and a relaxing atmosphere, it offers an all-round package with luxury and holistic wellness.
Note: Consider booking an appointment during sunset to get a breathtaking view of Dubai Creek.
5. Tours and Cruises
5.1 Desert Safari
- Activities: Dune driving, camel rides, drinks, barbecue dinner, sandboarding, live performances, and wild animal spotting.
- Tickets: Starts at AED130 for adults for a six-hour experience and AED100 for children.
This could be a thrilling and exciting ride through the dunes of Dubai. You will enjoy so many desert tours and activities such as dune bashing, camel riding, and cultural performances like belly dancing and henna painting.
Note: Consult with reputable tour operators to have a safe trip while at the same time enjoying the beauty of the desert.
5.2 Helicopter Tour
- Activities: Ranges from 45 to 60 minutes, or a shorter 25-minute tour.
- Tickets: A 12-minute shared helicopter ride costs AED 675, and a 12-minute private tour costs AED 2,745.
This awesome aerial tour offers a fly over the city and views famous landmarks from a vantage point high above the ground. Durations range between 12 to 40 minutes depending on the package, it offers a view of the city’s architectural designs and the waterfronts making it a unique way of experiencing the grandeur of Dubai.
Note: Daylight flights are best for taking photographs because of the clear view with the early morning light.
5.3 Xclusive Yachts Charter
- Location: Marina Promenade, Next to Dubai Marina Yacht Club.
- Activities: Onboard food and beverages, live entertainment, yacht charters, sport fishing charter, yacht tours, and sightseeing tours.
Luxury yachting services are available in Dubai with custom-made packages for different events. Xclusive Yachts Charter is a private yacht company that provides yachts for sightseeing, dining, and partying with premium services. Available in the range from small two-seater watercraft to large yachts, this choice would be perfect for touring famous Dubai landmarks, feasting on prepared meals, or simply lounging in opulence.
Note: Select an evening tour to help you behold the best and most stunning views of the Dubai skyline at night.
5.4 Hot Air Balloon Tour
- Location: Office 1303, Control Tower, Motor City.
- Tickets: Starting from AED 1,350 for adults, and AED 1,100 for children for a shared balloon tour.
Going on a romantic, pastoral ride on a hot air balloon is a wonderful experience in the middle of the desert. The sunrises over the desert can be viewed in the hot air balloons and then the journey is celebrated by having breakfast.
Note: Do not wait until the last minute to book an appointment as appointments are limited
5.5 City Sightseeing Bus Tour
- Location: Lower Ground Level, The Dubai Mall
- Tickets: Start from AED 300.
This option involves using a bus to visit different tourist attractions and historical landmarks in Dubai. It enables visitors to take an extensive tour of Dubai with an option to stop over at various famous points of interest in the city with full audio assistance.
Note: It is possible to purchase a multi-day pass for a longer trip.
6. Theme Parks
6.1 IMG Worlds of Adventure
- Location: E311, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, City of Arabia Dubai Land.
- Tickets: From AED 365
It is the world’s largest indoor theme park. IMG Worlds of Adventure is a fun park that has designed its rides and games with characters from cartoons and superheroes, meaning people of all ages can attend.
Note: Try to get to the park early enough to get as much riding as possible.
6.2 Motiongate Dubai
- Address: Dubai Park and Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Road.
- Tickets: AED 330
A movie-like theme park with different zones such as a Hollywood zone. Motiongate has rides and attractions themed with movies and movie franchises such as DreamWorks and Sony Pictures.
Note: Look for the season’s events and promotions for some extra entertainment.
6.3 Legoland Dubai
- Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Opposite Palm Jebel Ali.
- Tickets: From AED 295.
It is a theme park that aims to entertain families with children at young ages. Legoland Dubai includes attractions such as rides, stage performances, and an interactive play area, all based on the famous LEGO toys.
Note: It is equipped for children between the ages of 2 to 12 years and comes with several play areas.
6.4 AquaFun
- Address: The Beach, opposite JBR.
- Tickets: An all-day long pass for AED 155.
Here is the largest floating water park in the world right in the waters of JBR. AquaFun covers an area of more than 2700 square meters with slides, ramps, and obstacles in the shape of “I ❤️ Dubai.” It is an active amusement for those who seek excitement and want to have fun either alone or with the family in the waters of Dubai, but at the same time, it will test their balance and physical coordination.
Note: Make sure to wear shoes that can be worn in water and do not forget your sunscreen.
6.5 AYA Universe
- Location: Wafi City Mall, Dubai.
- Tickets: AED 135
This multidimensional environment is an imaginative art and light extravaganza. AYA Universe has 12 different areas, every zone has its subjects that change depending on the movements of the visitors, with lights, projections, and sound installations to bring a futuristic aesthetic to the space. This impressive modern structure combines technology with art to tell its stories and create a dynamic sensory experience for visitors.
Note: Remember to pack a charged camera because every zone has its Instagram-worthy spots.
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