Dubai’s tourism appeal is undeniable. Millions of tourists flock to this UAE megacity each year for different reasons. But there’s a noticeable change in modern tourist behavior as international visitors look beyond high-profile attractions in Dubai.
In several online discussions, internet users have highlighted both overrated and underrated places in Dubai. The team at Travel to Dubai. has screened through some of these discussions to find places that no longer seem to please everyone. Be ready for a few surprises.
Dubai is not considered ‘The Pearl of the Middle East’ for any ordinary reason. From January to May 2025, Dubai attracted 8.68 million international visitors, compared to 8.12 million in the same period last year. It has been rightfully said that numbers do not lie.
To be this popular and admirable, Dubai had to embrace a huge transformation. The oil-rich Emirate is a paradise for shopping enthusiasts, fans of nature, history buffs, art connoisseurs, thrill seekers and foodies.
But things are starting to change fast in Dubai and the city must pay attention. It has come to our notice that as the Emirate celebrates a record-breaking influx of tourists, a significant shift in tourists’ behaviour has been seen.
Explore more: Amazing Things to Do in Dubai under 100 AED here
Modern tourists seek authentic and culturally rich experiences
These days, global tourists are in search of experiences they are likely not to find in their home countries. Take the OG Dubai chocolate full of kunafa and pistachio cream, for example. Tourists are planning trips around this delicacy and I’m not exaggerating.
Dubai’s global appeal is certainly undeniable. The hospitality sector is also expanding and maintaining a notable hotel occupancy rate. But there has been a sizeable change in tourists’ interests as international visitors look far beyond prominent attractions.
In some online discussions, netizens highlighted a series of overrated and underrated places in Dubai. The team at Travel to Dubai has screened through some of these discussions to find places that no longer seem to please all. Let us understand.
Overrated places in Dubai
One of the places that popped up in online discussions at the time of preparing this article has got to be the most surprising one. At The Top, Burj Khalifa! The tallest building globally appears to be a tourist trap to some, and so does desert safari.
1. At The Top, Burj Khalifa
At The Top, Burj Khalifa is a series of observation decks on the 124th and 125th floors of Burj Khalifa. Despite the place’s burgeoning popularity, some people on the internet found this experience a tourist trap – possibly because of its high cost.
Someone said to go to At.mosphere at Burj Khalifa, instead. It is the highest located restaurant globally. You can indulge in delicious breakfast, high tea, light lunches and fine-dining dinner options – all against a beautiful backdrop.
2. Dubai Desert Safari
One of the most popular things to do in Dubai is a desert safari. But one user on Reddit pointed out that this experience can be skipped, as desert safaris include getting a one-minute ride on a camel, just enough for an Instagram photo.
The same user expressed interest in quad biking, but noted that “Dh125 for 30 minutes is a robbery.” “Tiktokers and Reelholics spoiled many spots already,” another user commented for a different post on Reddit. This is quite surprising, right?
3. The Dubai Frame
For many users, looking at The Dubai Frame from the outside is a great experience but going inside stops the fun part. Situated at Zabeel Park, The Dubai Frame stands at 150 meters tall, offering a spectacular glimpse of the Emirate.
One user noted that the architecture is stunning and the scenery from the top is great. It has also been said that the frame is a great place during the sunset hours. It appears experiences at different attractions in Dubai could be different from person to person.
Underrated places in Dubai
Online discussions are not centered just on ‘seemingly’ overrated places in Dubai. Many accounts are speaking about attractions that they feel are quite underrated. Let us take a look at some of these in this article.
1. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Located along Dubai Creek, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood‘s name has popped up multiple times on different platforms – but mainly for its underrated status. This district is a major heritage site offering a glimpse into life in Dubai during the mid-19th century.
Explore the best in Dubai’s culture, heritage and architecture at this neighborhood. There are more than 50 houses to explore, including Shiekh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), Coins Museum and more. The gem of old Dubai, that’s for sure.
2. Kite Beach
The name of Kite Beach has also popped up numerous times in online discussions. Considered one of the best things to do in Dubai, Kite Beach has a broad range of amenities for its guests, including restaurants, running tracks and changing rooms, besides a beautiful backdrop.
Entry to Kite Beach is free and more importantly, this public beach in Dubai is open 24/7. One can indulge in a number of thrilling things to do, including kite surfing, jet skiing, paddle boarding and Banana boat rides – something that seems to be luring more tourists.
3. La Perle
La Perle is certainly underrated. Located in Al Habtoor City, this is Dubai’s first permanent live event, staging incredible performances throughout the year. This is the perfect place for fans of acrobatics, state-of-the-art technology and action.
The underrated action takes place inside a 1,300-seat theatre. One of the users on Reddit noted that La Perle is often “overlooked”. You are going to be on the edge of your seat throughout the performance as a cast of talented artists performs breathtaking feats.
4. Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
You should not skip Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. This is not just our recommendation, but something coming from notable online discussions, too. Just metres from the bustling city of Dubai, this place is no less than a paradise for bird lovers.
During the colder months, flamingos steal the limelight at the sanctuary. But don’t forget to look closer among the mass of pink feathers and one might also spot great egrets, reef herons, cormorants, sandpipers and more colourful species of birds. This is a must-visit.
In a nutshell
Did the list of overrated and underrated places in Dubai surprise you? It is okay to be surprised as tourist attractions that people used to connect to no longer feel authentic or necessary.
Tourists are more interested in experiences that feel unique and possibly not accessible in their country. Their shopping habits are also changing as they look beyond just fridges magnets. Nonetheless, Dubai is definitely catching up to these changes.
There is also another great update for all people planning trips to Dubai in the near future. Hotels in Dubai and other emirates are focusing on ‘hyper-personalization’, as they start to realize that the concept of one-size-fits-all no longer holds depth.
1 AED