Dubai is an incredible city that’s capable of leaving breathtaking impressions on each visitor. It has the tallest skyscraper, fantastic entertainment options, opulent hotels and stunning gardens. Hence, it is a popular destination for those who want to have incredible experiences. Choosing which places to visit in Dubai is difficult, especially for people who live in a different country altogether.
If you want to know which are the best places to lay your eyes on, here are the top 5 attractions in Dubai if you want to consider during your first time. In short, these are some amazing things to see that really encapsulate what the city is about and that you’ll get one of the best impressions of this place.
These Dubai attractions will leave you in awe after every experience, ranging from the tallest of towers to an underwater world you will never forget! If you seek an ultimate guide to visit Dubai, an amazing Dubai first-time itinerary or simply an idea of the must-see places in Dubai for a family, a couple or a solo traveler, then surely this list will help you. Have more practical information in the Dubai travel guide and plan an awesome holiday.
1. Burj Khalifa
One of the things you can’t miss when visiting Dubai is the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. This is possible with the quickest glass elevator in the building that takes you up to the Observation Deck on the 124th floor, offering stunning views of the surrounding desert and cityscape, as well as the ocean.
It is also possible to enjoy a wonderful meal at At.mosphere (on the 122nd floor) or relax at the Burj Khalifa Lounge overlooking amazing views. Unable to banish a bad conscience, be sure to attend the amazing Dubai Fountain Show, spanning across the evening hours, and let the scenery of the world’s largest fountain wow you from the air.
Prices for the Burj Khalifa observation deck range from AED 132 to 303, depending on when you go. Although all the tours have superlative viewpoints, the ideal visits are during sunset. Also check out the Cafe Treat and Mission 828 VR, and the nearby Al Shindagha and Etihad Museums. Therefore, it is better to purchase the tickets beforehand to avoid waiting in line. The Dubai Metro Red Line train to the Burj Khalifa’s BurJ Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station is also available, as is the Feeder Bus F13 from the Dubai Mall.
- Opening Hours: 124th & 125th Floors- Non-prime Hours: 10:00 AM-3:30 PM & 7:00 PM-11:00 PM | Prime Hours: 4:00 PM-6:30 PM
148th, 124th & 125th Floors- Prime Hours: 12:00 PM-6:00 PM | Non-prime Hours: 7:00 PM, 8:00 PM & 9:00 PM
- Location: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- Contact Number: +971 4 888 8888
2. Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall has a reputation as one of the world’s largest shopping centres, but this is just a small part of the story. There are countless hours of things to see and do for families at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo – including viewing thousands of marine life through one of the biggest suspended aquariums in the world.
Children make use of the interactive role-play centre at KidZania whilst the thrill-seekers can take on the challenge at the Hysteria Haunted House. The Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink is where sports fans can skate, while art lovers are sure to catch a look at The Human Waterfall, one of the mall’s most popular photo spots.
Externally, the stunningly man-controlled Dubai Fountain is actually making certain of an evening of unforgettable memories. Cafes like Angelina Paris, % Arabica, Ladurée, Joe & The Juice and Bateel Café put the people who love food to further delight, creating a mall that is not just a shopping centre but an all-day destination for the people who love food.
- Opening Hours: Daily, generally 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM (restaurants operate later on weekends)
- Location: Downtown Dubai
- Contact: +971 800 382246255
3. Dubai Frame
Dubai Frame is one of the most creative architectural landmarks of Dubai that stands 150 metres tall inside Zabeel Park. It is purpose-built as a giant picture frame that brings the intrinsic value of Dubai’s past and its aspirations manifested in its skyline together.
The side facing the historic areas of Old Town along Dubai Creek is contrasted by the skyscrapers of the modern city that look towards Downtown and Sheikh Zayed Road. The first time people go up to the transparent glass bridge to cross, it is exciting and memorable.
Visitors ride on the dusty street of one of Dubai’s most famous boardwalks, modernizing the history of Dubai; its center boasts interactive galleries detailing how Dubai evolved from a small fishing village into one of the world’s greatest global cities, sporting educational displays as well as visual delights.
- Opening Hours: Daily, 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Location: Zabeel Park, Dubai
- Contact: +971 800 900
4. Dubai Marina
For people who appreciate the luxurious lifestyle of Dubai, Emirates at Dubai Marina offers you their stylish yachts and the bubbling hum of waterfront workers. The elegantly designed Marina Walk, full of cafés, restaurants and stunning high-rise residential buildings overlooking the still bodies of water, is perfect for an evening stroll.
For those who enjoy adventure, the world’s longest urban zipline, dubbed XLine Dubai Marina, provides a thrilling experience as one soars between the city’s skyscrapers at high speeds. There’s also the viewpoint of a yacht cruise when the sun is setting, which provides a relaxing experience.
Some of the great restaurants with marina views are located on Pier 7, and the locations along the beach at JBR Beach include golden sand, swimming, water sports and a lively beachfront scene. Dubai Marina can serve as an emblem of Dubai’s modern lifestyle, whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation.
- Opening Hours: Marina Promenade is accessible 24 hours; attractions and restaurants operate independently.
- Location: Dubai Marina, Dubai
- Contact: Dubai Marina Mall: +971 4 436 1020
5. Dubai Creek
Before Dubai emerged as the city of skyscrapers, Dubai Creek was the lifeline of the city. Today it continues to be among the most genuine areas where one can discover the traditional Emirati culture. To cross the creek between Bur Dubai and Deira, you can board a wooden abra that provides a cost-effective way for a memorable crossing while still offering a view of the bustling waterfront markets.
There are also numerous stalls of jewellery merchants in the glittering Gold Souq, and Meena Bazaar is known for its textiles and Indian cuisine, besides its souvenir business. Visitors can also venture into Al Seef and experience restored heritage architecture, fringed with modern cafés and Boutique hotels.
History enthusiasts should visit the vibrant Al Shindagha Museum, relax and enjoy a walk at Dubai Creek Park, or enjoy the spectacular thousands of migrating flamingos at the nearby Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. The birth and growth of modern Dubai can be traced through these sites.
- Opening Hours: Creek waterfront accessible 24 hours; museums, souks and attractions operate on individual schedules.
- Location: Dubai Creek, between Bur Dubai and Deira
- Contact: Dubai Municipality Visitor Information: +971 800 900
Dubai is a city of curiosity. Burj Khalifa will be in your field of view within just a few days; gone are the days of sharks and fishermen gifts and souvenirs. You’ll enjoy walking from the past to the present at Dubai Frame, you’ll relax and enjoy the lively Dubai Marina, and you’ll gain a better insight into Dubai’s cultural roots at Dubai Creek.
This will make each attraction experience a different perspective on your first visit, which makes the experience unexpected but also interesting. From traveling with your family and friends to doing it on your own, these Dubai icons are the finest local spots to stay at and will leave you with great memories after your holiday has completed. After all, your initial visit, with a bit of planning in hand, isn’t just going to make an impact; it will spur many more trips to this extraordinary city.
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