Dubai, a city of wonders, is the epitome of luxury, innovation, and tradition. As the dazzling gem of the United Arab Emirates, it beckons travelers with its futuristic skyline, golden beaches, and extravagant experiences. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a culture enthusiast, or simply seeking a good laugh, Dubai has something for everyone. If you’re planning a trip to this mesmerizing city, you’re in for a treat!
The top 10 best places to visit in Dubai
Here is a list of the top 10 best places to visit in Dubai.
1. Burj Khalifa: Touching the Sky
Entry ticket to Burj Khalifa: approximately AED 149 for entry to Level 124 or 125
Opened 24 hours
Dubai’s iconic Burj Khalifa stands tall and proud, like a confident giraffe. Shaped like a deep-space rocket, it reaches an astounding height of 828 meters, making it the world’s tallest building. This architectural and engineering marvel offers breathtaking views from its 124th-floor observation deck, which is a must-visit spot for tourists.
For an even more exhilarating experience, you can buy tickets to “At the Top Sky” on the 148th floor, the world’s highest outdoor observation deck at 1820 feet. Covered in 28,000 glass panels, the Burj Khalifa boasts several superlatives, including the highest occupied floor and the elevator with the longest travel distance. On hazy days, it’s better to visit at night to enjoy clearer views. And don’t forget to snap a selfie with the clouds on top of the Burj Khalifa!
2. Dubai Aquarium: Where Fish Have a Better View
Typically, the price range is from AED 100 to AED 175
Monday to Friday: 10:00 am to 11:00 pm (last entry at 10:15 pm).
Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 am to midnight (last entry at 11:15 pm)
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is home to thousands of aquatic animals, comprising over 140 species. Over 400 sharks and rays live in our 10 million liter tank, including sand tiger sharks, giant groupers, and a host of other marine species. A series of carefully designed experiences will allow our visitors to come face-to-face with our aquatic residents for memorable moments with friends and family. It’s like a high-end fish hotel—they even have room service!
3. Palm Jumeirah: Where Islands Wear Crowns
Admission fees for Palm Jumeirah vary based on the experience chosen. For example, access to The View at The Palm’s highest viewpoint (Level 54) includes a guided tour and skip-the-line access.
Monday to Thursday Operations hours will be from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM last entry will be 09:00 PM
Friday to Sunday Operations hours will be from 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM last entry will be 11:00 PM
Among the top 10 best places in Dubai, the Palm Jumeirah is a testament to Dubai’s ingenuity. This man-made island is shaped like a palm tree and is home to luxury hotels, posh restaurants, and stunning beaches. Whether you’re staying at the Atlantis or just visiting, Palm Jumeirah screams luxury. Take a stroll along the boardwalk, enjoy the views, and indulge in some fine dining. Imagine if palm trees had real estate agents; they’d say, “Location, location, location!”
4. Deira: Spice Souks and Gold Galore
Entry to Deira Spice Souk is free of charge.
Timings: The souk operates daily from morning until late evening, typically from around 10 AM to 10 p.m.
Deira’s spice souks are a feast for the senses. Just steps from the Deira Old Souk Abra station, the sound of Arabic chatter echoes through the lanes of this vibrant covered market. Dubai’s famous Spice Souk is a kaleidoscope of intoxicating sights and smells. Vendors energetically unload cardamom, saffron, and other aromatic herbs, all photogenically stored in burlap sacks alongside nuts, incense burners, henna kits, shishas, and dried limes. Beyond the tourist-centric main thoroughfare, tiny shops offer groceries and other household goods, adding to the souk’s authentic charm.
5. Burj Al-Arab: Sail Away to Luxury
Tickets for tours inside Burj Al-Arab vary. The basic tour prices start at around ₹14,779.
Timings: Tours are available with a duration of approximately 60–90 minutes, conducted by butlers, highlighting views of the Arabian Sea. Guests should arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled tour.
The Burj Al-Arab stands as the epitome of luxury, renowned globally as the world’s only 7-star hotel. Its distinctive sail-shaped design gracefully adorns an artificial island, making it a definitive icon of Dubai’s prosperous era. Inside, the ambiance is a testament to grandeur, featuring opulent elements such as dancing fountains, gold fixtures, gleaming marble, and indulgent whirlpool baths that can be filled with champagne at your request. Even if staying here stretches your budget, you can still experience its lavish offerings by booking a table for cocktails, afternoon tea, or dinner at the underwater restaurant. Every detail exudes extravagance, to the extent that even the resident goldfish enjoy personalized butler service.
6. Dubai Mall: Shop Till You Drop (and Then Shop Some More)
Entry to Dubai Mall is free. However, specific attractions like VR experiences and aquarium entry have varied prices.
Opening Hours:
Weekdays: 9 AM – 11 PM, last entry at 10:15 PM.
Weekends: 5 AM – 12 AM, last entry at 11:15 PM.
Dubai Mall isn’t merely a shopping center; it’s a vast retail universe. If shopping were an Olympic event, this mall would clinch the gold medal. Featuring everything from upscale boutiques to charming souvenir shops, there’s truly something here for every visitor. But that’s not all—beyond shopping, Dubai Mall boasts attractions like an ice rink, an aquarium, and even a virtual reality park. It’s a paradise akin to Disneyland for avid shoppers. Navigating its expansive corridors might require a GPS, but rest assured, you’ll depart adorned with fabulous shoes and unforgettable memories.
7. Dubai Museum: Time Travel in an Air-Conditioned Fort
The Dubai Museum entry fee costs AED 3 for adults and AED 1 for children under the age of 6.
The museum is open from Saturday to Thursday, 8:30 am to 8:30 pm, and on Fridays, from 2:30 pm to 8:30 pm
Step into history at the Dubai Museum, nestled within the walls of the 18th-century Al Fahidi Fort in Bur Dubai. As the oldest surviving structure in the city, Al Fahidi Fort offers a captivating journey through the emirate’s past. The museum meticulously traces Dubai’s rapid transformation from a modest desert settlement to a cutting-edge metropolis in just a few decades.
Intricate dioramas vividly portray scenes of traditional life, encompassing bustling markets, domestic settings, and serene mosques. Additional galleries delve into maritime and desert lifestyles, providing a comprehensive glimpse into the region’s cultural evolution. A highlight is the archaeological section, featuring artifacts unearthed from local excavations that illuminate the ancient history of Dubai and its surroundings.
8. The Dubai Fountain: Mesmerizing Water Shows
Ticket Price: AED 65.00 per person.
Hours of Operation: The fountain operates from 17:45 to 23:30 daily. The last boat for the fountain ride departs 30 minutes before closing time.
Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain is a sight to behold. With water jets shooting up to 500 feet, choreographed to music, it’s like a liquid ballet. The fountain shows run every 30 minutes in the evenings, and each performance is different. It’s a great spot to unwind after a day of exploring places in Dubai.
9. Dubai Frame: The World’s Largest Picture Frame
Tickets for Dubai Frame generally cost AED 50 for adults and AED 20 for children.
Opening Hours: Dubai Frame is open daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
The Dubai Frame is like Instagram for buildings. It is a giant picture frame that offers stunning views of old and new Dubai. It’s like stepping into a time machine with a view. Take the elevator to the top and walk across the glass floor if you dare. The views are spectacular, and it’s a great place for some Instagram-worthy shots. Strike a pose, and voilà—you’re framed against the city’s past and future!
10. The Dubai Desert: Desert Safari Adventures
Prices for Dubai Desert safari tours vary based on the type and duration of the safari. Expect rates to range from approximately $60 to $150 per person, depending on the package and inclusions.
Timings: Most desert safaris in Dubai operate in the afternoon and evening to avoid the extreme daytime heat. Typical timings range from 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM, including pick-up and drop-off times from central locations.
Activities: Activities commonly offered during a desert safari include dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and cultural performances. Some packages may include dinner and entertainment
No trip to Dubai is complete without a desert safari. Buckle up for a thrilling ride over the dunes in a 4×4. It’s like a roller coaster, but with sand. After the adrenaline rush, relax at a Bedouin-style camp. Enjoy a traditional meal, watch a belly dancing performance, and maybe even try your hand at sandboarding.
Dubai is a city that never ceases to amaze. Dubai is where camels race Ferraris and skyscrapers touch the clouds. So, pack your sunscreen, your sense of humor, and your curiosity. Dubai awaits you, ready to visit the top 10 best places in Dubai! You’ll leave with unforgettable memories and a desire to return for more.
