The biggest and most developed of the seven United Arab Emirates, Dubai has a well-deserved reputation as an oasis for cosmopolitan luxury travelers with money to burn.Ā But the city’s most distinctive feature is its pursuit of all things over-the-top, from “seven star” luxury hotels and shopping malls with ski resorts to man-made islands built in the shape of palm trees and continents. Dubai has it all! Here’s some insider tips on the some of the things we did on our recent trip to the Middle East that you don’t want to miss.
Seaplane Ride
The best way to see Dubai is from above on aĀ seaplane. Ā Venture onboard a Cessna seaplane tour with Seawing Seaplane Tours on a 40-minutes seaplane flight. Ā Experience spectacular views of Dubaiās skyscrapers, beaches and architectural wonders from above as you swoop around some of the top Dubai attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al-Arab and palm-shaped island archipelago of the Palm Jumeirah. You can choose from two take-off locations and three departure times from each to suit your schedule.
Burj Khalifa
The tallest building in the world the Burj Khalifa stands at a stunning 2,722 feet. Ā The first 15 floors of the Burj Khalifa are an Armani hotel. Ā The Burj features two observation decks “At The Top”, one of which is the highest in the world on the 149th floor, the otherĀ observation deck on the 124th floor. Ā Both are gravity-defying, jaw-dropping views. Ā We bought the VIP tickets which allowed us to go to the 149th floor. Ā You first spend some time admiring the exhibit on the buildingās history, then take the fastest (of course) lift in the world. In only a few seconds the doors open to a welcoming cocktail reception in the 149th floor observation desk. Ā It’s well worth it, as the views will blow your mind. Ā You can spend an hour capturing the endless panoramas towards the beach and over the city. Ā Once you’re done with admiring the views, take the elevator down to the 124th floor, where you can observe the view from a lower level. Ā On your way out, stop at the gift store to buy some a miniature Burj Khalifa to take home with you.
Burj Al Arab
The Burj calls itself āthe worldās only 7-star hotelā and, whether or not you agree, it’s certainly one of the most iconic buildings in Dubai. Soaring to a height of 321 metres over the coastline of Umm Suqeim, the Burj is designed to resemble a billowing sail. There are various viewpoints but one of the best is from the public beach next to it, for the ultimate Dubai shot of you on the beach with the Burj in the background. It is one of the most photographed structures in the world, and consistently voted the worldās most luxurious hotel, so naturally it’s rather expensive for the average visitor. Hereās a good tip however: go for a drink at the Dhow and Anchor in the hotel opposite Jumeirah Beach hotel and sit out on the terrace for an even better photo opp.Ā If you can’t afford the $15,000/night luxury suite, try dining amongst the sea creatures in the underwater restaurant!
Desert Safari
A desert safari offers the chance to get a flavour of the Bedouin existence from when the Dubai skyline was more sand than super-city. Numerous companies offer desert safaris but check them out before booking: ask what time you’ll be dropped back at your hotel and whether they plan to stop anywhere on the way, especially what food there will be and any extras you may need to pay for. Most desert safari tours start with a 4×4 drive to an authentic Bedouin campsite where you can try ‘hubbly bubbly’ (shisha tobacco) and indulge in fresh barbecued shawarma. Opt for a thrill ride around the dunes by Land Rover or camel depending on the tempo you want, while after sunset, it’s a magical experience just to sit in the darkness and stare at the many, many stars visible away from the city lights. Companies like Arabian Nights include options like falcon-handling and belly-dancing entertainment that start at $82 for an afternoon to evening safari.
Ā Dubai Fountains
Get ready for something spectacular, exciting and – best of all – free! If you’ve seen the Belaggio fountains in Vegas and thought you’d seen it all, Dubai does it taller, bigger, louder and with an incredible light show at night. Enjoy the 902-foot-long Dubai Fountain, which shoots water up to 500 feet in the air.Ā The musical repertoire of the fountain show includes Sama Dubai, Baba Yetu (an award-winning song in Swahili), the Arab worldās top-selling dance number Shik Shak Shok, and the signature piece of world-renowned Italian tenor Andrea Bocelli, Con te partiro: Time to Say Goodbye. The fountains are situated outside the Dubai Mall, surrounded by a lively hub of restaurants with frontrow views – book ahead to dine on the terrace and see the fountains in all their glory. The fountains operate Saturday to Thursday 1pm and 1.30pm; 6 to 11pm every 30 minutes, and Friday 1.30pm and 2pm; 6 to 11pm every 30 minutes.
Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall in the world and a retail heaven with over 1,200 stores. Walking in through the doors, all you can say is “Wow” and gaze in awe at the opulent mall and the uber-luxe stores that surround you. Ā In a city that is well-known for luxury, you better believe theĀ Dubai mall is a must-see! You will find everything your heart desires all under one roof. Ā Ā Inside, you’ll find an entrance to Burj Khalifa, an ice-skating rink, Ā aquarium and underwater zoo, a games center, and a cinema. Sitting outside near the dancing fountain is an experience that you may never find elsewhere. It is really an amazing place for you to spend your time with your friends or family.
Ski Dubai – Mall of the Emirates
Dubai is the only place where you can visit the desert and hit the ski slopes in the same day. Ā Ski Dubai, is Ā the world largest snow park with a huge ski slope situated in Mall of the Emirates, close to the Burj Al Arab. You can go from the 50Ā°C desert heat to below zero temperatures. Ā This incredible winter wonderland features a replica indoor mountain with 5 slopes of varying difficulty, including the worldās first indoor black run. Ā You donāt have to worry about ski clothing or equipment because Ski Dubai offers guests winter clothing, ski and snowboard equipment rentals. Ā Your skis will carry you down the slope, and the quad-chairlift and tow lift will promptly carry you back to the top for another run. Ā They offer ski lessons for those of us that aren’t great skiers. Thereās even a cafĆ©-bar halfway up the ski slope in true mountain style, so you can stop for a bumper hot chocolate and watch the fun unfold.
Jumeirah Mosque
The Jumeirah Mosque is a much-photographed landmark, especially in the evening when its lit up against an evening sky, itās also the only Dubai mosque to open its doors to non-Muslims with informative guided tours. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) organises tours of the Jumeirah Mosque six days a week from Saturday through to Thursday at 10:00am. You donāt need a reservation to attend, but you should arrive at the main entrance to the mosque at 9.45am. Ā The tour lasts around 75 minutes. Ā Please remember to wear modest dress attire. Ā Ladies should cover their head/hair, and wear loose clothing. Ā You can borrow traditional attire from the mosque. Ā Most unusually, photography inside is allowed, so bring you carmera!
Gold and Spice Souks
The Gold Souk is worth a look but you might need an unlimited credit card to shop here.Ā The Gold Souk, located on Dubai Creek’s south bank in the Deira, specializes in glitz and glamour. Featuring glittering displays of necklaces, bracelets and earrings from more than 300 retailers, the Gold Souk is one of the most renowned gold jewelry trading centers in the world. But if you’re not one for gold, don’t fret. The souk also sells platinum, diamonds and silver.Ā Make sure to check around the souk before deciding on what to buy, as many shops sell similar items. (Haggling and comparison shopping is common.)
On the other side of the creek lies the pungent Spice Souk, where vendors hawk flavors from across the globe, including cinnamon, ginger and chili. This is also the place to stock up on saffron, as you’ll find this delectable spice at a much lower cost here than you would at home.Ā Recent visitors strongly suggest bargaining when visiting the souks in Dubai.
Have you ever been to Dubai? If so, please add your recommendations of things to do in the comments so we can add them to our list when we return!
Venkat Ganesh
January 4, 2017 at 5:08 amLooks like Dubai has a lot of things to check out and do. And here I thought it was nothing but a commercial city full of high-rises and shopping malls.
The markets/souks are the ones that I am most interested in.
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:04 amYes, definitely go to the souks! You won’t be disappointed š
Rajkumar Gaikwad
January 4, 2017 at 7:57 amSeems you have covered almost all the major attractions of Dubai Carmen, that’s really amazing.
We had been to Dubai this new year, seriously enjoyed a-lot.
But we missed the desert safari part. š
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:04 amThanks! Sorry you missed the desert safari but now you have a reason to return!
Ollie
January 7, 2017 at 6:34 amI was thinking about skydiving in Dubai š And I am going to get henna on my hands tommorow in Malaysia! š
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:06 amHow exciting!! I hope you’re enjoying Malaysia. I’m planning to go this year.
Steph Be
January 7, 2017 at 10:30 pmI loved your blog! Dubai is such an amazing place and it looks like you got to experience a lot on your trip! I love the henna tattoos- those artist are so creative, and the Arabian Night Tour is definitely something that is on my list when I head out there. Thanks for a great read!
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:07 amThanks Steph! I really appreciate it.
Chloe GoGo Budget Travel
January 8, 2017 at 1:26 amAll too beautiful! Look at the dessert view! I wish I can be there soon!
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:07 amIt really is beautiful! Hope you can visit in the future š
Maria
January 8, 2017 at 4:43 amDidn’t know there was so many different things you could do in Dubai! Desert trips and skiing in one trip is certainly not something you get on every trip..
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:07 amExactly! It’s such a unique place.
Kaylene
January 8, 2017 at 4:56 amI’ve never been to Dubai. I’d love to go on a desert safari, and the views from Burj Khalifa look stunning! Also, it’s so crazy there’s a ski slope inside the mall!
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:08 amI know – completely crazy and cool! Thanks for reading š
Patti (The Travel Sisters)
January 8, 2017 at 5:05 amI really want to go to Dubai – sounds like a very unique and city. I think it would be fun to see the Burj Al Arab and do a desert safari.
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:08 amIt’s definitely unique and worth visiting! Thanks for reading, Patti.
amanda
January 8, 2017 at 6:39 amthis is a great guide – i haven’t been to dubai yet but when i do will definitely use it! thanks
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:12 amYou’re so welcome!
Lillian
January 8, 2017 at 9:56 amDubai is such an interesting place. I didn’t realize there was so many interesting things to do there… I just thought it was just shopping š
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:12 amTrust me, the shopping is fantastic, but there’s so much more to do! Thanks for reading, Lillian.
Milosz Zak
January 8, 2017 at 11:34 amVery nice. My brother was in Dubai recently, and he said that a lot of the city remains under construction. Moreover, much of it for the purposes of real estate speculation, with a lack of a real, value-added economy. It’s definitely nice to look at it, but it’s possible it might all be paint-thick.
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:13 amThere are fascinating places to visit like the markets too! But yes, lots of construction. I’m interested in coming back in around 5 years to see how much it’s changed.
Lara Dunning
January 8, 2017 at 1:56 pmI’m not sure I’ll make it to Dubai, but there sure is plenty of interesting things to do, and some I’ve not seen posted on other sites. Thanks so much for sharing your adventures. BTW the Pearl Divers waterfall is really neat!
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:14 amYou’re so welcome, Lara! Thanks for commenting.
Sia
January 8, 2017 at 3:14 pmThe spices look so tempting! I imagine this part of the world as not only luxurious but very colorful and rich in flavours and spices.
I had no idea that there’s the biggest mall in the world, look very futuristic! I always try to see a city from above so the plane tour sounds fantastic!
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:14 amThe plane tour was fantastic! Such a unique way to see such a unique city š
knycx.journeying
January 8, 2017 at 8:46 pmDubai is on a construction spree and it’s exciting to see something new every time visiting the city. Thanks for sharing and the information! @ knycx.journeying
Carmen Edelson
January 9, 2017 at 3:16 amI know! It would be interesting to visit again in about five years time to see how much the city has changed!
Castaway with Crystal
January 9, 2017 at 3:28 amLooks like you had a really cool time! I really want to visit Dubai ASAP! Thanks for the inspiration š
Carmen Edelson
January 17, 2017 at 8:36 amI spend three days in Dubai and it wasn’t enough time. I could of easier stayed longer. There is so much to do and see.
Emily
January 9, 2017 at 7:45 amNext time I go to Asia I’m going to have a stop over in Dubai. I’ve only transited through and it looks like I’ve been missing out! Think I’d like the souks and visiting the mosque the most, although the ski slope has to be done just for the weirdness of snow in the UAE!
Carmen Edelson
January 17, 2017 at 8:38 amMy favorite was the shopping and the views from the top of the Burj Khalifa. It was an amazing experience.
Agness of a TukTuk
January 9, 2017 at 12:31 pmDubai is a city o luxury. But don’t you get distracted with all these gold and shine? š
Carmen Edelson
January 17, 2017 at 8:42 amDubai is a city with a lot of wealth, and the sky is the limit when it comes to shopping and luxury toys. I rather enjoyed seeing it all.
Bethanny Sudibyo
January 9, 2017 at 5:41 pmI really loved this list. I never been to Dubai before but it looks super nice! I love belly dancing, I dance it but I would imagine it would be nice to be in the audience once in awhile.
Carmen Edelson
January 14, 2017 at 9:54 amIt’s a fun experience! Thanks for commenting š
Llamateurs
January 9, 2017 at 5:57 pmNever been to Dubai, but seaplane and safari is so tempting… ! Seeing all this beauty form above! And desert for dessert!
Carmen Edelson
January 14, 2017 at 9:52 amIf a seaplane is something you’d be interested in, it’s really the best way to take in the whole city!
Wiz tours
January 14, 2017 at 4:09 amWoow, Cool times in dubai.
Carmen Edelson
January 14, 2017 at 9:51 amAbsolutely! It’s a very cool city.
Desert Safari
February 25, 2017 at 3:38 amOverall you had a great time in Dubai, We will hope to see more tips & travel ideas from you in future š
Stay Blessed.
Carmen Edelson
February 27, 2017 at 1:01 pmThank you! My time in Dubai was pretty fabulous.
khourshem
April 18, 2017 at 3:24 ami love dubai, last year have lots of fun in duabi, also tried desert safari. thanks for sharing your experince for dubai,
Carmen Edelson
April 18, 2017 at 9:36 amI’m glad you had fun! I love Dubai.
Maaz
May 22, 2017 at 3:11 amDubai is such nice place to visit. I am sure after reading this article there will be plenty of new visitors to Dubai.
Carmen Edelson
May 23, 2017 at 5:44 amThank you š
Sofi leen
October 30, 2017 at 3:11 ami love desert safari, last year i visit dubai and enjoy safari tour.
Carmen Edelson
October 30, 2017 at 4:28 amHow lovely, I hope you had fun!
Roy
April 24, 2018 at 5:33 amDubai is an amazing place to visit and if you’re looking for camping then Desert safari is something you cannot miss, absolutely amazing!
Carmen Edelson
April 25, 2018 at 1:37 amI’d love to do that!
desert safari deals
October 25, 2018 at 7:13 amOverallyou had agreat timein Dubiawe will hopeto see more tips& travel ideas from you in future
Carmen Edelson
October 29, 2018 at 2:16 pmI did have a great time, can’t wait to go back!
desert safari
April 29, 2019 at 9:56 amvery nice post
Carmen Edelson
May 2, 2019 at 4:49 pmThank you very much!
desert safari
May 23, 2019 at 8:28 amvery good Post .
Carmen Edelson
June 1, 2019 at 2:03 pmThanks, happy to share!
JTCAD
August 5, 2019 at 8:16 amThis is amazing. thanks for sharing such a wealth of information. I am following your blog for a long time. Always sharing amazing stuff.
Carmen Edelson
August 6, 2019 at 4:29 pmLove sharing with my readers!
Shofey
August 30, 2019 at 5:47 amGreat blog, never been to Dubai, have you been to any theme park?
Carmen Edelson
September 6, 2019 at 2:28 pmTheme parks in Dubai? No I haven’t, but I love the city!
Marina miller
June 3, 2020 at 7:31 amThanks for sharing some of the most wonderful tips to follow while travelling because they would really help the people who are planning to travel to Dubai for the first time.
Carmen Edelson
June 10, 2020 at 5:08 pmDubai is a great place to visit!
Berna Clapano
September 3, 2020 at 9:32 amDubai is the most beautiful city in the world. Thanks for the post.
Carmen Edelson
September 10, 2020 at 4:20 pmI agree – Dubai is incredible!
Sana Haris
September 3, 2020 at 10:52 amThank you for this information really appreciate your work. keep it up!
Carmen Edelson
September 10, 2020 at 4:19 pmThanks for reading, Sana!
Raj
February 12, 2021 at 5:11 amwow i loved the images Excellent pictures really awesome
Carmen Edelson
February 17, 2021 at 5:46 pmAlways happy to share š
Hatta tour
April 19, 2021 at 5:29 pmthanks for the share
Carmen Edelson
April 26, 2021 at 2:34 pmHappy to share, I love Dubai š