Dubai

Dubai

Dubai is the epitome of modern luxury fused with rich Arabian heritage. Known for its glittering skyline, world-record attractions, luxury shopping malls, and golden deserts, Dubai is a dream destination for travellers seeking excitement, elegance, and a dash of extravagance. Whether you're looking for a family adventure, romantic escape, or cultural experience, Dubai has it all. Start your day exploring the futuristic cityscape with iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, or the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab. Shop in the vast Dubai Mall or haggle at the traditional gold and spice souks. Thrill-seekers can dive into water adventures at Atlantis Aquaventure, desert dune bashing, or skydiving over Palm Jumeirah. Beyond its architectural marvels and luxurious resorts, Dubai boasts an emerging art scene in Alserkal Avenue, fascinating museums like the Museum of the Future, and endless culinary delights from Michelin-starred restaurants to local Emirati cuisine. With year-round sunshine, pristine beaches, and a vibrant nightlife, Dubai remains a top destination for holidaymakers worldwide. It’s not just a city – it’s an experience that dazzles from every angle.  

Travila Dubai Travel Guide

What to know before Travelleing

Paris is known around the world as the “capital of love,” and even if you don't understand the history of Paris at all

Language: Arabic
Peak Season: November to March
Time Zone: UTC+4
Currency: UAE Dirham (AED)
Travila

7–8 Hours

Average Flight Time

£10

Price Of Pint
Transport
Best time to visit
Iconic Dubai Landmarks

 Dubai’s skyline is one of the most recognized in the world, and for good reason. This dazzling cityscape is packed with architectural wonders and world-famous attractions that define the modern appeal of Dubai. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to uncover more, Dubai’s landmarks offer a blend of futuristic design, cultural heritage, and record-breaking achievements that promise unforgettable memories. At the top of any Dubai travel list is the Burj Khalifa. Standing at 828 metres, this is the tallest building in the world and offers panoramic views of the city, desert, and Persian Gulf from its observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors. The experience is enhanced by interactive exhibits that showcase the construction of the tower and the development of Dubai’s skyline. Booking a sunset slot gives you breathtaking views of the city as it transitions from daylight to a glittering metropolis. Next door is The Dubai Mall, more than just a shopping centre. This mega complex houses over 1,200 retail outlets, hundreds of food outlets, and major entertainment attractions like the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, VR Park, and an Olympic-sized ice rink. The mall is also the gateway to the Dubai Fountain, a mesmerizing water, light, and music show that takes place every evening, choreographed to classical and contemporary music. Palm Jumeirah, the world’s largest man-made island, is another must-see. Shaped like a palm tree, this engineering marvel is home to the luxurious Atlantis, The Palm resort. Visitors can spend a day at Aquaventure Waterpark, swim with dolphins at Dolphin Bay, or relax on pristine private beaches. A monorail connects different parts of the Palm, offering scenic views over the water and of the city skyline. For a glimpse into the future, The Museum of the Future is an architectural and conceptual highlight. This unique structure is shaped like an eye and engraved with Arabic calligraphy. Inside, immersive exhibits explore themes of sustainability, space exploration, and artificial intelligence. It’s not just a museum – it’s a window into what the future might look like in 50 years. Dubai also cherishes its heritage, and a visit to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood provides a stark contrast to the modernity elsewhere. Walk through narrow alleyways and wind towers, explore the Dubai Museum inside Al Fahidi Fort, and take a traditional abra ride across the Dubai Creek to the bustling Deira Souks. Here, you’ll find the Gold Souk glittering with jewellery and the Spice Souk offering fragrant, colorful spices that reflect Dubai’s trading past. The Dubai Frame, a newer addition to the city's architectural icons, is a literal frame between old and new Dubai. Standing 150 metres tall, the structure provides views of historical neighbourhoods on one side and the modern skyline on the other. A glass-bottomed bridge connects the two towers and offers a thrilling walk for those unafraid of heights. Also noteworthy is the Ain Dubai (Dubai Eye), located on Bluewaters Island. As the world’s tallest observation wheel, it gives you a bird’s-eye view of Dubai Marina, JBR, and the Arabian Gulf. Whether you book a daytime ride or a nighttime slot with cocktails, it’s an excellent way to see the city from above. Another architectural feat is the Jumeirah Mosque, open to non-Muslim visitors as part of cultural tours. It’s one of the most photographed mosques in Dubai and offers insights into Islamic traditions and Emirati culture through guided sessions led by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. If you're seeking entertainment with a touch of the surreal, Global Village combines shopping, culture, and cuisine from more than 90 countries in one place. Open seasonally from October to April, this open-air destination features pavilions representing different nations, complete with performances, souvenirs, and authentic food from each region. Finally, don’t miss the Sky Views Dubai, a high-rise glass slide and edge walk experience atop the Address Sky View Hotel. This adrenaline-filled attraction lets you see Downtown Dubai from a new angle — quite literally! Dubai's iconic landmarks go beyond visual appeal — they’re experiences that immerse you in the ambition, innovation, and charm of the UAE. From sky-high views to heritage sites, each structure tells a story, offering a blend of luxury, excitement, and history you won’t find anywhere else. Be sure to bring your camera and your curiosity — in Dubai, the extraordinary is just another day.  

Family Fun in the Desert

 Dubai isn’t just about luxury shopping and glamorous nightlife—it’s also a world-class destination for family fun and unforgettable adventures. From desert thrills to theme park excitement, this emirate offers experiences that entertain both kids and adults in equal measure. With safety, cleanliness, and hospitality at its core, Dubai sets the standard for stress-free, family-friendly holidays. One of the most exhilarating family experiences in Dubai is the desert safari. Venture beyond the city limits into the majestic golden dunes of the Arabian Desert. Here, you can enjoy an action-packed afternoon of dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, camel riding, sandboarding, and quad biking. Many desert safari providers offer family packages with BBQ dinners, live entertainment such as traditional Tanoura dance and belly dancing, and even falconry shows. The camp-style setups usually include shaded seating, henna painting for kids, and soft drinks to keep everyone refreshed under the desert sky. IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world’s largest indoor theme park, is an air-conditioned paradise for families seeking thrills without the heat. With zones themed around Cartoon Network, Marvel superheroes, and dinosaurs, children can meet their favorite characters, go on roller coasters, and take part in immersive 4D experiences. The Lost Valley dinosaur adventure is a standout for curious young minds, while older kids will love the pulse-pounding rides like the Velociraptor coaster. For aquatic adventures, Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm is an award-winning water paradise. Boasting record-breaking slides such as Leap of Faith, river rapids, and splash areas for smaller children, it caters to all age groups. Plus, families can interact with marine life at The Lost Chambers Aquarium or even book a shark safari or dolphin encounter. Safety and lifeguard presence are top priorities, offering peace of mind to parents. If your children love animals, then the Dubai Safari Park is a must. This expansive eco-park is home to over 2,500 animals, including elephants, lions, zebras, flamingos, and crocodiles. Interactive zones, educational talks, and eco-friendly facilities make it an ideal half-day excursion. Families can opt for guided bus tours or walk through different wildlife villages representing Africa, Asia, and Arabia. Dubai Garden Glow is another magical evening attraction, especially popular with families. Located in Zabeel Park, this seasonal experience features dazzling light installations, interactive art, and themed areas like Dinosaur Park and Magic Park. Children are enchanted by glowing animals, walk-through tunnels, and illuminated flower displays. It's a gentle, walkable attraction perfect for after-dinner exploration. For those looking to beat the heat, Ski Dubai at the Mall of the Emirates offers an out-of-this-world experience — snow in the desert! This indoor snow park features ski slopes, sledding hills, zorbing balls, and penguin encounters. Gear is included, so you can throw snowballs and build snowmen even in the middle of July. There’s also a dedicated Snow Park area for toddlers and younger children. The Green Planet, an indoor bio-dome in City Walk, brings the Amazon rainforest to the UAE. With over 3,000 plants and animals including sloths, parrots, and reptiles, it’s an immersive educational experience. Walk across a suspended bridge, watch birds fly freely, and learn about ecosystems in a way that’s both entertaining and eye-opening for children. Families with toddlers and young children will enjoy Dubai Dolphinarium, located inside Creek Park. Daily shows feature dolphins and seals performing tricks, and children can even pose for photos or book interactive swim sessions. Adjacent facilities include a mirror maze, bird shows, and a trampoline park. If your family enjoys creativity, visit OliOli Dubai, a play-based museum designed for hands-on exploration and STEM-based learning. With galleries like Air, Water, and Toshi’s Net, kids can touch, splash, climb, and invent. It’s the kind of experience that turns fun into education without them even realizing it. For free fun, spend the day at Al Barsha Pond Park or Zabeel Park, where you’ll find paddle boats, cycling tracks, and play zones. JBR’s The Beach offers outdoor play areas, water fountain features, and a family-friendly beachfront promenade full of restaurants with kids’ menus and activities. Dubai also boasts child-friendly accommodation in abundance. Many 4- and 5-star hotels offer kids’ clubs, children’s pools, babysitting services, and family room configurations. Atlantis, JA The Resort, Lapita Dubai Parks Hotel, and the Address hotels are just a few that cater specifically to families. Even getting around the city is easy. Taxis are affordable, child seats can be requested in advance, and the Dubai Metro is clean, punctual, and stroller-friendly. Malls like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates offer baby changing rooms, pram rentals, and kid-specific entertainment zones like Kidzania, Magic Planet, and Little Explorers. In short, Dubai is a family-friendly playground that balances safety with excitement. From thrilling outdoor safaris to climate-controlled theme parks and hands-on learning experiences, there’s something for every age group. Whether your kids want to zoom down slides, meet wild animals, or explore the snowy slopes of an indoor mountain, Dubai makes every moment magical and memorable.  

Shopping & Souks

 Dubai is a shopper’s paradise that blends high-end luxury with rich tradition. From glitzy mega-malls and designer boutiques to historic souks brimming with spices and gold, shopping in Dubai is not just about retail—it’s a cultural experience. With tax-free pricing and countless international brands, the city attracts visitors from around the world eager to indulge in a world-class shopping spree. Start with the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping centres in the world. More than just a retail hub, it’s an entertainment complex featuring over 1,200 stores, an Olympic-size ice rink, a huge aquarium, and a VR gaming zone. You'll find high-end labels like Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton next to flagship outlets of global brands such as Zara, H&M, and Nike. Next door is the Fashion Avenue, a designer’s haven featuring elite couture labels. If you’re looking for exclusive luxury, you’ll feel right at home among its marble interiors and concierge shopping services. During the Dubai Shopping Festival held annually in January and February, many of these stores offer unbeatable discounts, raffles, and entertainment. Another must-visit is Mall of the Emirates, famous for Ski Dubai and an equally impressive selection of shops, ranging from high-street fashion to upscale electronics. Families can enjoy entertainment options like Magic Planet and the VOX Cinemas while indulging in retail therapy. For a more unique experience, visit City Walk or The Outlet Village, where you can find discounted luxury brands in a beautifully designed outdoor mall. These places combine open-air shopping with trendy cafes, making for a relaxed atmosphere. But it’s not all about malls—Dubai’s traditional souks offer a sensory journey through the city's heritage. In Deira, the Gold Souk glitters with 24K jewellery at competitive prices. Next door, the Spice Souk is an aromatic haven with sacks of saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, and dried rose petals. The Textile Souk, located across the creek in Bur Dubai, offers vibrant fabrics and traditional garments, perfect for custom tailoring. Don’t miss Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a modern version of an Arabian bazaar featuring boutique-style shops with handcrafted items, perfumes, carpets, and art. With its canals, lantern-lit alleys, and scenic views of the Burj Al Arab, it’s a romantic spot for shopping and dining. Dubai's shopping experience is seamless and tourist-friendly. Most stores accept international credit cards, offer English-speaking staff, and provide tax refunds at the airport for non-residents. Whether you're buying a designer handbag, a silk kaftan, or exotic spices, shopping in Dubai is an event in itself.  

Sun, Sand & Sea

 Dubai’s coastline is a major draw for visitors seeking both relaxation and adventure. With the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf lapping at its shores, the city offers everything from pristine public beaches to luxury beach clubs, making it ideal for sunseekers, swimmers, and water sports lovers. Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) is the most popular public beach. Known as "The Beach," it features white sands, calm waters, lifeguards, and nearby restaurants and retail outlets. You can rent sunbeds, go banana boating, or try your hand at parasailing while enjoying beautiful views of Ain Dubai. Kite Beach is ideal for families and active travellers. Known for its lively atmosphere and range of sports activities, this beach offers paddleboarding, volleyball, and jet-ski rentals. Food trucks line the walkway, making it a popular spot for casual dining. For a more upscale experience, La Mer combines beach access with boutique shops, cafés, art installations, and even a water park. It’s perfect for a full day of sun, food, and fun. Want exclusivity? Nikki Beach and Zero Gravity are premium beach clubs where you can enjoy music, gourmet food, and luxury loungers with poolside service. These are popular with couples and groups looking to unwind in style. Water adventures are plentiful—go on a speedboat tour around Palm Jumeirah, snorkel with tropical fish, or try flyboarding for an adrenaline rush. Families can enjoy Laguna Waterpark, while those looking for a quiet retreat might prefer Al Sufouh Beach, a hidden gem also known as "Black Palace Beach." With sunny skies most of the year, Dubai’s beach scene is inviting and versatile. Whether you're lounging with a book, building sandcastles with kids, or chasing waves, Dubai’s coastline is the perfect playground.  

Destination

   Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and nowhere is this more evident than in its culinary scene. From Michelin-starred fine dining to budget-friendly street food, Dubai offers a global buffet for every appetite and budget. Begin with Emirati cuisine, a rich blend of Arabic, Persian, and Bedouin influences. Sample dishes like machboos (spiced rice with meat), luqaimat (sweet dumplings), and harees at restaurants like Al Fanar or SMCCU (Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding). For a world-class experience, dine at Burj Al Arab’s Al Mahara or At.mosphere in the Burj Khalifa. If you prefer views with your meal, try Pierchic, a seafood restaurant on a private pier in the Arabian Gulf, or Cé La Vi, which offers sky-high panoramic vistas of Downtown Dubai. Dubai is also famous for its Friday brunches, a lavish spread of international cuisine often accompanied by live music and free-flowing beverages. Top hotels like Atlantis, The Palm, and Jumeirah Beach Hotel host some of the best. Street food lovers should explore Al Karama or Meena Bazaar for Indian chaat, shawarma, and falafel. Food trucks at Last Exit or Ripe Market offer casual eats in a creative setting. With over 200 nationalities represented, Dubai’s dining scene spans the globe—Japanese sushi bars, Lebanese grills, Italian trattorias, and even African soul food. Whether it’s a romantic dinner or a family feast, Dubai’s culinary offerings are unforgettable.  

Dining in Dubai

Discover world-famous destinations that continue to captivate travelers with their iconic landmarks, rich history, and vibrant cultures. These popular spots offer well-developed tourism infrastructure, diverse accommodation options, and countless activities for every type of traveler. While these destinations attract millions of visitors annually, they maintain their unique charm and continue to offer new experiences even for repeat visitors seeking to uncover hidden layers beyond the main attractions.

Hotel

Indulge in premium accommodation options that offer exceptional service, world-class amenities, and exquisite dining experiences. Luxury hotels provide personalized attention, sophisticated design, and exclusive facilities that transform your stay into a memorable journey. From five-star city hotels to boutique resorts in exotic locations, these properties prioritize guest comfort and satisfaction while offering unique local experiences and impeccable hospitality standards.

Hotel

Find comfortable and affordable lodging options that don't compromise on quality or experience. Budget hotels, hostels, and guesthouses offer excellent value for money while providing clean, safe accommodations in convenient locations. Many budget options feature communal spaces that encourage social interaction, local recommendations from knowledgeable staff, and authentic experiences that allow travelers to stretch their budget further while exploring new destinations.

Join our newsletter
Subscribe to see secret deals prices drop the moment you sign up!

No ads. No trails. No commitments