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18 BEST Places to Visit in the UAE

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Looking for the best places to visit in UAE? From the architecture of Abu Dhabi to the beaches of Fujairah, here is my itinerary for the entire UAE!

There’s more to the United Arab Emirates than just Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Don’t believe me? Then let me show you the best places to visit in UAE! And we’re not just talking about a few attractions scattered around but some of the best things to do IN EACH STATE!

Even though Abu Dhabi and Dubai are the two largest Emirates making up more than 90% of the UAE, there are still five other Emirates you can visit.

After my most recent trip travelling around all seven Emirates with Rotana Hotels , these are the best places to visit in UAE. If you’re looking for an incredible holiday in the Middle East then make sure you tick off a few of these things!

If you’re planning a trip to the Middle East , then check out my guides to Dubai and Oman for a little bit of inspiration.

What to do in UAE

One thing that really bugs me is when people say “I don’t see the point of visiting the UAE, there’s nothing to do there…”

Well, on my first day there I wandered around the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (arguably my favourite mosque in the world), took in Picasso, Pollock and other world-class artists at the Louvre, acted like a big kid and went on all the rides at Warner Bros World before coming back to my hotel for a relaxing massage and an amazing dinner.

Nothing to do there? That was just one day in Abu Dhabi, let along the rest of the UAE!

Let me say this now, the UAE is an incredible place for your holiday. It really does have a little bit of everything (including an indoor ski centre in Dubai!)

So, if you’re thinking of exploring this part of the Middle East, here’s where I recommend what to do in UAE.

Abu Dhabi is the largest Emirate in UAE and it is the official capital too.

It is a city full of superlatives – it is home to the world’s largest hand-woven carpet, the world’s heaviest chandelier, the world’s fastest rollercoaster, the tower with the greatest lean. This is a place that certainly doesn’t mind breaking world records!

I’ve been to Abu Dhabi a couple of times now and I really like it there. The mixture of amazing architecture and high-adrenaline adventure activities in the UAE make it the perfect place to start your trip.

Marvel at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

I think the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is my favourite mosque in the world.

Even though this place is relatively new (it first opened in 2007), it has become a shining light for Abu Dhabi.

The mosque is completely free to enter (men must wear trousers, women must be covered) and is open from 9am till 10pm.

This is where you’ll find the world’s largest handwoven carpet (with a mammoth 2.6 billion knots) and the world’s heaviest chandelier weighing in at 12 tons. For me, this is one of the top places to visit in Abu Dhabi.

Take in the amazing architecture at The Louvre

The Louvre opened its doors in 2017 and it is the sister museum to the one in Paris.

Much like the one in Paris, the Louvre houses some incredible pieces of art from antiquity all the way to the modern day.

However, the building itself is like one giant display showcasing the amazing architecture in Abu Dhabi.

Outside it looks like a futuristic spaceship, but once you get to the main hall it really opens up into this stunning space that blends sharp edges with reflective water features. Just stunning.

Be a big kid again at WB World

This is another place that’s just opened up in Abu Dhabi and is one of the best tourist attractions in UAE.

Opposite Ferrari World (which is home to the world’s fastest rollercoaster), WB World Abu Dhabi is a bit more sedate. Saying that, there are some fantastic rides here and its fun for all ages.

Being a comic book fan, I really enjoyed ‘Gotham City’ which was home to the Batman and Riddler rides, but I also enjoyed ‘Bedrock’ with the Flintstones ride.

Also, WB World is all indoors so this is a great place to head when it gets too hot outside. WB World is one of the new places to visit in UAE and it’s perfect for families too.

Spot dolphins at the Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas

Yes, you really can see dolphins in the UAE!

While I was staying at the Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas, I went for an early morning walk along the beach and I was lucky enough to see dolphins backflipping right in front of my face.

They were literally 10 metres away from me just off the beach and they were putting on quite the show.

This really was one of the highlights of my trip to the UAE – hopefully you’ll see dolphins too. If not, you can always go for a swim!

Where to stay in Abu Dhabi – Saadiyat Rotana Resort & Villas

Even though Ajman is the smallest of the seven emirates, it packs a big punch.

The beaches are beautiful here with hardly anyone on them, especially compared to those of Dubai. Also, the Corniche is a really popular place where locals like to bbq and have a picnic. Ajman is one of the most historic places in the UAE and it still has a number of customs and traditions there.

Learn about the pearl diving industry

Before the oil boom, pearl diving used to be one of the biggest industries in the UAE.

As the name suggests, this is where people used to dive for oysters to see if they had a valuable pearl inside them. Expeditions used to take weeks, and if a boat came back with a few pearls it was considered a success.

These days the pearl diving industry has changed and the best way of learning about it all is aboard the Ajman Pearl .

This is a tour that takes you around the mangroves of Ajman where you learn all about the history of pearls and how they’re grown.

Not only that, you also have the chance of opening up an oyster to see if there’s a pearl inside. If there is, you get to keep it!

When we cracked one open, nestled under the flesh of the oyster was the biggest pearl I’ve ever seen. I know it sounds set up but the pearl genuinely came from the oyster! No tricks or anything.

If you’re on your honeymoon or are on a romantic holiday then I’d really recommend this activity.

Enjoy lunch by the beach

This is one of the top things to do in Ajman. As I said, the beaches here are absolutely beautiful without any of the people.

While I was travelling in the UAE, we stopped off at the beach in Ajman for lunch and it was bliss. There was only one other family around, otherwise we had the beach to ourselves.

There are several beach huts you can sit in to avoid the sun (it was a tepid 38 degrees when I was there) and it’s very relaxed compared to the hustle and bustle of city life.

Dubai . It is a city that has it all.

From towering skyscrapers to crazy malls with ice rinks in them to beautiful beaches (often with a camel or two walking by!), there really is something for everyone in Dubai.

I’ve been to Dubai a couple of times now and it’s hard not to like the energy of the city. There’s always something going on at a million miles an hour and I love the fast-paced life there – it reminds me a little bit of London in that sense, just very hot!

With that in mind, here are some of the best things to do in Dubai.

Museum of Illusion

The Museum of Illusion in Dubai has just opened up in the summer of 2018 making it one of the newest places to visit in the UAE.

From mind-bending illusions to looking like a giant, this is good ol’ fashioned family fun. I can imagine it’s the perfect place to bring the kids.

They really encourage taking photos here and the staff even took a few so make sure you bring your camera along. Oh, and your sense of humour too!

Eat at Teatro in Towers Rotana

One of the places everyone said we had to eat at was Teatro in Towers Rotana . This is constantly ranked as one of the best restaurants in Dubai and it certainly did not disappoint!

The food is a fusion of east meets west so expect to find things on the menu like wasabi tempura prawns and miso-glazed seabass.

We had the sushi platter and it was delicious. Very authentic with their own sushi master and it was incredibly pretty too. It was food that looked good and tasted even better.

If you’re looking for an amazing place for dinner in Dubai then I’d really recommend Teatro.

Explore Dubai Creek on an abra boat

Here’s a little money saving tip for you. Abra boats are cheapest way of getting around Dubai with a one-way ticket costing just 20p.

Not only are they a cheap way of getting around, they are also great for seeing the city from the water. Also, this is such a traditional mode of transport that it feels very nostalgic too.

The best place to get an abra is near the Old Quarter and on Dubai Creek . The boats are very regular every 10 minutes and some leave before if they’re full. This really is such a good way of sightseeing Dubai!

Take in the skyline from Al Bandar Rotana

I’ll put my hand up right now and say I’m a sucker for a good skyline. Well, in Dubai they have one the world’s best.

I could spend all day roaming around Dubai in search of the best photo spots, but one of my favs is at the top of the Al Bandar Rotana.

Up on the 18 th floor you can grab a cocktail from Gusto Restaurant , sit on the terrace and watch the sunset. Or, if you’re like me, you can take photos of the sunset! Still, this really is one of the best views of Dubai.

Where to stay in Dubai – Al Bandar Rotana or the Towers Rotana Dubai

If you’re wondering where to go in UAE, let me introduce you to Fujairah. At times this place feels like it’s a million miles away from the other Emirates.

Not only do you get gorgeous beaches here, but you also get the Hajar Mountains in the background giving this an otherworldly feel. It wasn’t the Luna landscape of the Atacama Desert in Chile but it wasn’t far off!

If you’re looking for a place to really kick back and relax then there are a number of 5* resorts here.

Also, if diving and snorkeling are your thing then this is where you’ll find it in the UAE.

Here are some of the best tourist places in Fujairah.

Go snorkeling at Snoopy Island

The main place to go snorkeling in Fujairah is Snoopy Island.

This was a short 10-minute boat ride along the coast from where I was staying at the Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa and it’s a really good snorkeling spot.

Snoopy Island is a large rock protruding from the sea and there’s a small reef surrounding this teeming with life.

Unfortunately we didn’t see any turtles but they are really common in the area. But we did see lots of other little fishes and it was a great way to spend an afternoon.

Take in the landscape while parasailing

I always love parasailing wherever I am around the world – it always reminds me of family holidays when I was younger.

So, when I saw you could go parasailing at Fujairah I signed up immediately. It was definitely one of my favourite things to do in the UAE .

One of the best things about going parasailing in Fujairah is the landscapes. You really get to see the Hajar Mountains from high up with the bright blue water glistening below. So much fun!

Where to stay in Fujairah – Fujairah Rotana Resort & Spa

Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah is quickly establishing itself as the adventure capital of the UAE. For me, this is up there with the best places in UAE so make sure you add it to your list.

Not only are there activities like jet skiing along the coast and hiking up in the Jebel Jais Mountains, but it is also home to the world’s longest zipline! This is an adventure activity like no other and it is such a rush.

Ras Al Khaimah is also home to a few all-inclusive resorts (bet you didn’t think you’d find them in the UAE!) That means if you’re looking for a proper holiday by the beach and the by the pool then you can’t go wrong with RAK. And yes, you can drink alcohol here. I told you it was surprising!

Ras Al Khaimah is one of the best places to visit from Dubai for people looking for a more relaxed state and a lazier beach holiday.

Take on the world’s longest zipline

Obviously I love my adventure activities and they don’t come much better than this.

So, how long is the world’s longest zipline? It’s 2.8kms where you reach speeds of up to 160kph and it is an adrenaline-pumping 2 minutes flying through the mountains of Jebel Jais.

You fly in the superman position facing forward, and once you reach terminal velocity it’s actually quite relaxing (I really mean that!) Also, it’s a great way to take in the beautiful scenery of the mountains too.

You can book tickets with ToroVerde Ras al Khaimah . We arrived on the day so you don’t need to book in advanced if you don’t want to. This is definitely one of the best new places to visit in UAE that’s for sure!

Enjoy beautiful sunsets at The Cove Rotana Resort

One of the best places you can stay in Ras Al Khaimah is The Cove Rotana Resort .

This is an all-inclusive resort that looks a little like the Santorini of the UAE.

The Cove Rotana Resort is based right on the beach and it has uninterrupted views of the sunset. This really is the best place to watch sunset in the United Arab Emirates.

Also, there’s a little beach bar right on the beach meaning this is the perfect place to be for those sundowner cocktails before a delicious dinner! What I would give to be back on the beach right now…

Exploring the coastline on a jet ski

Jet skiing is another one of those classic beach holiday activities that I love.

While I was staying at The Cove Rotana Resort I picked up a jet ski for the morning and zoomed along the coast.

Every time I go jet skiing these days it’s with my girlfriend on the back and she hates it when I go fast. From the sound of her screams I always push it too far but what can I say, it’s so much fun!

Where to stay in Ras Al Khaimah – The Cove Rotana Resort

Sharjah is seen as the most traditional and cultural of the emirates. This is the only one where drinking alcohol is strictly prohibited, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have fun here.

UNESCO declared Sharjah as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World in 1998, recognition reaffirmed in 2014 when it became Capital of Islamic Culture, so there’s plenty to see here.

Also, the skyline down by Khalid Lake is among the best you’ll find in the UAE.

When it comes to what to do in the UAE, I really recommend adding Sharjah to the list. It really is very different from the other emirates!

Drink traditional Arabic coffee

If you’ve never had Arabic coffee before then you’ve got to give this a go.

Arabic coffee is very aromatic and is often spiced with cardamom. Unlike other coffee, it is actually a greeny golden colour and is very bitter to drink.

Most of the time coffee is offered to guests when they arrive somewhere new and traditionally it is drunk for a small cup.

A word of warning – if you don’t shake your cup after you’ve finished it then your host will keep on filling it up until you do! Shaking your cup is a sign you don’t want any more coffee and we learned this during a traditional coffee ceremony when we arrived at Centro Sharjah .

Go for a sunset cruise on an abra boat

One of the best places to visit in the UAE is Khalid Lake.

Not only do you get the gorgeous skyline glittering in the water, but you also get to see the old and the new blended together with Al Noor Mosque nestled between the skyscrapers.

By Al Majaz Park there is a boat jetty where you can hire an abra boat to go on a little cruise of the lake.

We came down here at sunset and it was just beautiful – definitely the perfect time of day to see Sharjah and it was a little cooler too.

Where to stay in Sharjah – Centro Sharjah

Umm Al Quwain

If you’re wondering where to go in the UAE then take a look at Umm Al Quwain!

Umm Al Quwain is a tiny emirate wrapped around an island dotted lagoon and it’s really beautiful here.

This place has a bit of a retro feel to it as there aren’t any big international resorts or megamalls like you’ll find in Dubai, but because of that it has a distinct charm.

Across the creek, uninhabited Al Sinniyah Island is a protected marine environment noted for its mangrove swamp and large colony of Socotra cormorants. We also saw flamingos here too which was a nice added bonus!

Go kayaking through the mangroves

One of the best ways of seeing the mangroves up close is in a kayak.

Even though I didn’t see any turtles while kayaking in Um Al Quwain, it is very common to see them in the area. However, I did see flamingos though which was a huge surprise. I never thought there were flamingos in the UAE but I was completely wrong about that.

I went kayaking from UAQ Marine Club which is like an adventure club with loads of activities to choose from. Best thing about this is they’ve got a pool so you can go for a relaxing dip after kayaking.

Hiring a kayak is fairly cheap (100AED, £20) and I’d really recommend this to anyone passing through Um Al Quwain.

My trip to the UAE was in association with Rotana Hotels promoting some of their best hotels in the region. As always, views are entirely my own and without bias.

Are you planning a trip to the Middle East? What do you think are the best places to visit in UAE? Make sure you let me know in the comments below!

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About the Author

Macca Sherifi is the founder of the multiple award-winning blogs An Adventurous World and the Great British Bucket List. Every month he inspires over 200,000 avid readers to travel the world.

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25 best things to do in Dubai

Jun 4, 2021 • 12 min read

Whether it's in a souk or a mall, shopping in Dubai is an essential experience © Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

If you're planning to visit Dubai, you'll find a stirring mix of profound traditions and futuristic vision wrapped into starkly evocative desert splendour.

You won't be short of things to do in the sci-fi-esque land of iconic skyscrapers, palm-shaped islands, city-sized malls and palatial beach resorts. Dubai embraces sunshine, innovation and cultural dynamism, and is known as a shopping haven with a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. Here are some great things to do to make the most from your trip.

Burj Khalifa

Dubai is famous for its dramatic skyscrapers, and above them all looms the Burj Khalifa , shaped like a deep-space rocket and, at 828m, the world's tallest building. It's a stunning feat of architecture and engineering, and a trip to the observation deck on the 124th floor (1483ft) is the most popular way to take in the amazing views it offers. You can also buy tickets for "At the Top Sky" on the 148th floor, which is the world's highest outdoor observation deck at 1820ft.

Clad in 28,000 glass panels, the Burj Khalifa also lays claim to several more superlatives, including the highest occupied floor and an elevator with the longest travel distance. On hazy days, it’s better to visit at night.

Al Fahidi Historic District

Wandering around this restored heritage area in Bur Dubai provides a tangible sense of historic Middle Eastern architecture and culture. Low-lying traditional courtyard buildings flank this quiet labyrinth of lanes in Al Fahidi Historic District , many of them featuring arabesque windows, decorative gypsum screens and wind towers.

Some contain craft shops, small heritage museums, art galleries, artsy guesthouses or cafés serving local fare, including Middle Eastern breakfasts and camel milk smoothies. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding leads guided tours of the quarter.

Dubai Miracle Garden

Covering some 2000 sq metres and touted as the largest natural flower garden in the world, there’s a sense of Alice in Wonderland–esque surrealism when entering Dubai Miracle Garden . Wander past quirky bloom-covered peacocks, clocks and castles, or alternatively, chill out in a cabana with billowing drapes and floor cushions.

Home to 100 million flowers, and adjacent to the enormous nine-dome Dubai Butterfly Garden, it is incredibly popular, attracting 55,000 visitors a week. There are food outlets on site as well as a souvenir shop and small trampoline park.

Shop 'til you drop

Shopping malls represent an integral part of the culture and lifestyle in Dubai. Not merely places for maxing out your credit cards on fashion, electronics or gourmet foods, malls are also where locals go to socialize in cafés and restaurants, to catch a movie in a state-of-the-art multiplex or to get adrenaline kicks in an indoor theme park or game arcade. The best and biggest of the bunch is Dubai Mall, which features not only 1300 stores but also a giant aquarium, an indoor ice rink and a genuine dinosaur skeleton.

Serious shoppers can check out the Dubai Shopping Festival, which lures bargain-hunters from around the world. It takes place in January each year, and there are huge discounts in the souqs and malls. The city is abuzz with activities during the festival, ranging from live concerts to fashion shows and nightly fireworks.

Mushrif National Park

One of the oldest parks in Dubai, Mushrif National Park covers more than 5 sq km of natural ghaf forest. Mushrif is located around 15km east of the city centre, and is a haven for birds, including owls, Orphean warblers, hoopoes and black redstarts. Dating from 1974, the park has plenty of manmade attractions as well, including walking trails and bicycle tracks, a large children's playground, a swimming pool and barbecue pits.

Read more: The 9 best parks in Dubai

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

On the outskirts of Sharjah , the 225 sq km Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve accounts for 5% of the Emirate of Dubai's total land. The reserve was established in 1999 and has been involved in projects to reintroduce mountain gazelles, sand gazelles and Arabian oryx.

It's possible to stay inside the reserve at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa , which was designed for superluxe ecotourism. The reserve is divided into four zones, the third of which is only open to resort guests and the fourth to a small number of desert tour operators, including Arabian Adventures , offering a less costly admission than overnighting at the resort.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

In 2016, Dubai added four theme parks to its stable of attractions, including IMG Worlds of Adventure , the world's largest indoor theme park. Housed in an air-conditioned hangar the size of 28 football fields, the park is truly impressive, with more than 20 rides and attractions split across four themed zones – Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure and IMG Boulevard. You won't go hungry as there are 28 dining outlets to choose from.

Etihad Museum

Opened in 2017, the striking Etihad Museum engagingly chronicles the birth of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, spurred by the discovery of oil in the 1950s and the withdrawal of the British in 1968.

Documentary films, photographs, artifacts, timelines and interactive displays zero in on historic milestones in the years leading up to and immediately following this momentous occasion, and they pay homage to the country's seven founding fathers. Free tours of the adjacent circular Union House are available, which is where the historic signing of the Constitution of the United Arab Emirates took place.

For a dose of Arabian Nights flair, head to Dubai's historic core and plunge headlong into its charmingly chaotic warren of markets. The famed headliner is the dazzling Gold Souq . Even if you don't have a thing for bling, a walk through here will feel like you've entered a giant Aladdin's Cave. It's fun to just watch the action, especially in the evening. If you're buying, sharpen your haggling skills, no matter whether shopping for teensy earrings, an engagement ring or a dowry-worthy necklace.

White Dubai

Dazzling rooftop bars, chill beachfront lounges, classic pubs, cool karaoke joints, speakeasy-style nightclubs, live-music venues – with such variety, finding a party location to suit your mood is hardly a tall order in Dubai. One of the biggest draws for nocturnal action is White Dubai. The mega-venue with its impressive light and sound systems sits smack dab on top of the grandstand of the Meydan Racecourse.

Desert escapes

The Arabian desert, with its weathered mountains, undulating sand dunes and wide open spaces, exudes a special mystique that can easily be savored on a day trip from urbanized Dubai. There are numerous tour operators to set you up with everything from camel treks to sandboarding or overnight safaris. The best ones offer an authentic look at local culture through encounters with Bedouins and traditional meals. Alternatively, consider hiring a 4WD and staying at a desert resort, so you can appreciate the magnificent scenery on your own schedule.

Read more: Top 9 day trips from Dubai

Dubai Museum

Housed in Bur Dubai's Al Fahidi Fort, the city's oldest surviving structure, Dubai Museum, provides a well-laid-out introduction to the history of the emirate. Marvel at its turbo-evolution from simple desert settlement to futuristic metropolis in just a third of a century. Dioramas recreate traditional scenes in a market, at home and in the mosque, while other galleries focus on life at sea and in the desert. An archaeological exhibition illustrates the ancient history of the region with a display of items unearthed during excavations at local digs.

Dubai Design District

This hub for creatives lures visitors with its edgy architecture, contemporary restaurants, public art, galleries and calendar of cultural events. Visitors to Dubai Design District can tap into this laboratory of tastemakers by browsing showrooms and pop-ups, eavesdropping on bearded hipsters in sleek cafés, checking out art exhibits in building lobbies, or attending free screenings and workshops. The week-long Dubai Design Week is held there in November, with an extensive offering of talks, workshops, masterclasses and kids' activities.

Dubai Butterfly Garden

If you want to deepen your knowledge of these pretty flying insects, pop into the Dubai Butterfly Museum , located next to the Dubai Miracle Garden. Some 15,000 butterflies flutter around nine indoor domed gardens, and you can see for yourself how they begin as caterpillars and evolve into their flying adaptations. Don’t miss the Butterfly and Insect Museum, which features in-depth analysis and information about thousands of colorful butterfly species from around the world.

Museum of Illusions

It opened in 2018 and the Museum of Illusions in the Al Seef district is fast becoming a favorite for families and Instagram fans. Kids will love the 150-plus illusions, including the rooms of mirrors, distorted perspective and various other optical illusions, while parents can take memorably wacky photos. Avoid visiting at weekends if possible, as visitors are restricted by number and you may have to wait your turn.

Jumeirah Mosque

Snowy white and intricately detailed, Jumeirah is Dubai's most beautiful mosque and one of only a handful in the United Arab Emirates open to non-Muslims. It's particularly beautiful at dusk and visitors are allowed in six days a week. One-hour guided tours are operated by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding , and while modest dress is preferred, traditional clothing can be borrowed for free.

Dubai Fountain

The dancing Dubai Fountain is spectacularly set in the middle of a giant lake against the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa. Water undulates as gracefully as a belly dancer, arcs like a dolphin and surges as high as 140m, all synced to stirring classical, Arabic and world music soundtracks played on speakers. There are plenty of great vantage points, including a 272m-long floating boardwalk, which takes you just 9m away from the fountain.

Other good viewing spots include some of the restaurants at Souk Al Bahar , the bridge linking Souk Al Bahar with Dubai Mall, the Dubai Mall waterfront terrace, or aboard a 25-minute Dubai Fountain Lake Ride on a traditional wooden abra boat.

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature

The long-running annual Emirates Airline Festival of Literature brings authors and thousands of book fans together to celebrate all things reading and writing. Held over nine days in March, the festival hosts talks, discussions, panels and a special program just for children, with many activities free to attend. It offers attendees a chance to meet local and world-famous authors, attend literary debates and workshops, participate in competitions and be inspired by their literary heroes.

Global Village

The carnival-like Global Village is a bit like a ‘world fair’ for shoppers, and you'll find it on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). Each of the 30-something pavilions showcases a specific nation’s culture and products. Aside from shopping, there's also lots of entertainment – from Chinese opera to Turkish whirling dervishes – as well as a funfair with dozens of rides from tame to terrifying.

Burj Al Arab

This landmark luxe hotel, with its dramatic design that mimics the billowing sail of a ship, floats on its own artificial island and has become the iconic symbol of Dubai’s boom years. The Burj Al Arab's interior is all about impact, drama and unapologetic bling, with dancing fountains, gold fittings, shiny marble and whirlpool baths your butler can fill with champagne if you so wish. If a stay exceeds your budget, you can still partake in the opulence by making reservations for cocktails, afternoon tea or dinner in the underwater restaurant.

Dubai Frame

Opened in January 2018, this 150m rectangular 'picture frame' sits in Zabeel Park , right between historic and modern Dubai, and provides grand views of both parts of the city. Galleries on the ground floor of Dubai Frame tell the story of Dubai (the past) before visitors are whisked up to a viewing platform at roof level (the present). The final stop is another gallery depicting a vision of Dubai 50 years from now (the future).

Al Qudra Lake

One for the nature lovers, Al Qudra Lake is a series of man-made lakes set amidst the rolling dunes of the Saih Al Salam desert on Dubai’s southern outskirts. Part of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, the surrounding area is unspoiled. Swap skyscrapers for wide open dunes and oasis-like pools where you can spot plenty of free-roaming wildlife, more than 100 species of birds and several desert plants.

This long, pristine stretch of white sand, off Jumeirah Road and next to a mosque, is superclean and has lots of activities, including kitesurfing, beach tennis, beach volleyball and kayaking. There are showers, wi-fi, toilets and changing facilities on Kite Beach , plus lots of food trucks and cafés. It offers great views of the Burj Al Arab, and gets very busy on Friday and Saturday when a seaside market with crafts and gifts sets up.

Perfume Museum

The waterfront Perfume Museum is part of the Al Shindagha Museum restoration project and is the former home of a Dubai sheikha who loved all things perfume. The old building has been restored and its interactive exhibits are based around scent, smells and fragrance. Keep your entry ticket and you’ll get free access to the nearby Dubai Creek House .

Steps from the Deira Old Souk abra station, the sound of Arabic chatter bounces around the lanes of this covered market. Dubai's famous Spice Souk is filled with intoxicating sights and smells. Its vendors work hard to unload cardamom, saffron and other aromatic herbs photogenically stored in burlap sacks alongside nuts, incense burners, henna kits, shishas and dried limes. Away from the tourist-oriented main thoroughfare, tiny shops also sell groceries and other household goods.

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27 BEST Places to Visit in Dubai (2024)

Famous for glamorous shopping, towering buildings, modernity, and sheer excess, Dubai United Arab Emirates is one of the hottest spots in the Middle East right now. Surrounded by sandy desert with a long stretch of Persian coastline, there are plenty of opportunities for relaxation and adventure too. From sunbathing and swimming to diving and dune bugging, you’ll never have a dull moment in Dubai!

However, Dubai’s reputation for exclusivity can put many people off visiting.

There’s no need to swerve Dubai completely though; not only are there some excellent activities that won’t break the bank you can also hit many of the highlights in just a couple of days, meaning that your overall stay doesn’t need to be for too long. Our expert team of travel writers have compiled this list of the best places to visit in Dubai so you can make the most of your trip without blowing your budget.

Spoiler alert: Some of the best places to visit in Dubai are sure to blow you away!

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in Dubai:

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Jumeirah Beach

Why it’s awesome: Fine white sands meet the sparkling blue waters of the Persian Gulf at Jumeirah Beach. There is no charge to enjoy the public beach and you’ll find various vendors and facilities close to hand. Located on Dubai Marina, you'll find luxury like no other in this neighborhood.

• Take a stroll along La Mer, a world-class beachfront
• Visit the Jumeirah Mosque, the largest mosque in the UAE
• Dine on delicious food at Turkish Village Restaurant & Café
• Shop until you drop for luxury fashion at Dubai Marina Mall

If Jumeirah Beach isn’t quite your cup of tea, check out where to stay in Dubai before you scroll on down into the main Dubai attractions.

There are LOADS of areas just waiting to be explored, some of which have accommodation options too. If in doubt, I recommend staying on Sheikh Zayed Road, which is the longest road in Dubai and connects you to all the main tourist attractions.

Now, buckle your seatbelts, it’s time to look at the best places to visit in Dubai. This is gonna be fun!

Still deciding where you go? Have a look at our Dubai vs Qatar post to settle it.

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#1 – Burj Khalifa – Possibly one of the most important places to visit in Dubai

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• Tallest building in the world
• Incredible views
• Splendid modern architecture
• Iconic Dubai landmark

Why it’s awesome: The Burj Khalifa , open since 2010 and built in just five years, is the tallest building in the world. Standing at 828 metres (2,717 feet) tall, it’s certainly an imposing sight! The building is that tall that people on the highest floors can still see the sun several minutes after it has set for those at ground level!

Sleek metal and gleaming glass rise high into the sky, with fountains and a pretty tree- and bench-filled park at the bottom. It has several observation decks from where you can enjoy terrific views over Dubai, and there are places inside to eat, drink, and sleep.

Also across from the Burj Khalifa, you will find Dubai’s hottest attraction, Sky Views Dubai . This adrenaline-packed activity that opened in November 2021 at the Sky Views Hotel allows visitors to slide down a complete glass slide from the 53rd floor to the 52nd floor. If you’re not afraid of heights, this attraction is for you.

What to do there: Stroll through the park at the bottom of the tower and perch on a bench to enjoy the vibe and views. Snap plenty of pictures of the towering beauty before riding the high-speed elevators up to the viewing points. (It is advised to book tickets well in advance to avoid disappointment.) On Level 124 you can enjoy stunning views of the world at your feet, seeing even further afield thanks to the super-strength telescopes. One of the best places in Dubai.

Level 125 has a beautiful Arabian-style lounge with panoramic views. Dare to step out onto the interactive glass floor—it seems to splinter right beneath your feet, all while standing 456 metres (1,496 feet) above the ground.

You can also take a virtual tour to the very pinnacle of the tower and enjoy a virtual flight over the city. To really feel fancy, book one of the drinks packages, such as afternoon tea, a champagne sundowner, or nighttime cocktails.

#2 – Wild Wadi Waterpark – Easily one of the most fun places to check out in Dubai

• Cool down in the sun
• Enjoy various water rides
• Ideal for a fun family day out
• Watch the large waterfall cascading at regular intervals

Why it’s awesome: Wild Wadi Waterpark is one of the best places in Dubai to beat the heat and cool down while having heaps of fun. The large outdoor water park has some 30 rides and attractions for people of all ages and it is themed around the story of Juha, an Arabian folklore figure.

There are several pools and places where you can take it easy and bask in the sunshine, and you’ll also find great spots to grab refreshments and meals. Don’t worry if you’ve forgotten any of the essentials as there’s also a shop on site that sells bathing suits, goggles, towels, and anything else that you’d need for a great day. You can also buy a range of merchandise.

What to do there: Take a refreshing dip in one of the pools and relax around the park. Why not spoil yourself and rent a private cabana for your day at the water park?

Lazily drift along Juha’s Journey, a mellow and laid-back lazy river, grab a ring to hurtle down the ring slides, bob in the turbulent waves of Flood River, and try to keep your head above water in Breaker’s Bay, the biggest wave pool in the Middle East. This place is a great spot to spend some time on the weekend in Dubai , just make sure you bring your sunscreen!

Get your body-boarding and surfing game on at the Wipeout and Riptide Flowriders, one of just four such water attractions in the world. Feel an adrenaline surge at Tantrum Alley and Burj Surj, and climb the 32-metre (105-foot) tower of Jumeirah Sceirah to hurtle down the long and exhilarating slide at a breath-taking 80 km/h (50mph).

Watch as your kids have heaps of fun and giggles at Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon, with tamer slides, water cannons, fountains, shallow pools, and more, all with a cool theme. Pick up souvenirs, enjoy a tasty meal, and have a great day to remember.

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#3 – The Dubai Mall – A great place in Dubai if you love to shop!

• One of the world’s biggest shopping malls
• Home to more than 1,000 shops
• Air of luxury, exclusivity, and glamour
• Various leisure and entertainment options

Why it’s awesome: The best place in Dubai to spend money, the elegant and huge Dubai Mall is perhaps the most famous shopping centre in the UAE, if not the Middle East. With more than 1,000 shops and a variety of entertainment and dining options, you should plan to spend a good few hours there.

Open since 2008, it is now one of the most-visited places across the entire world! You’ll find men’s, women’s, and children’s fashions, fragrances and cosmetics, toys, electronics and gadgets, homewares, and more. Oh, its also amongst the best places to go in Dubai for some free AC and the top place to visit in Dubai for free toilets.

If you’re visiting in December and January, you’ll be visiting around the Dubai Shopping Festival, which is where you can witness live music displays, light installations, daily fireworks d even a DSF Drone Light Show – that’s how it’s done in Dubai!

What to do there: Escape the heat and step into air-conditioned comfort to enjoy some high-class window shopping and retail therapy. Even if you don’t plan on buying anything it’s still well worth visiting the Dubai Mall to admire the sumptuous surroundings and fancy shop displays. Stores include Chanel, Chloe, La Perla, Aldo, Apple, Tiffany and Co, Clinique, Prada, Mac, Dior, Bose, Lego, Fendi, Gap, DKNY, Puma, Gap, Rolex, and many, many more.

Visiting with kids? No worries! Take them to Kidzania where they can have fun with other youngsters in various cool roleplay settings in a mini world designed just for children.

Catch a film at the 22-screen cinema, grab a bite to eat in one of the many restaurants, cafes, and concession stands, go ice skating, see the replica of the Dubai Creek Tower in the Atrium, explore the underwater world at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo , and feel a shiver down your spine in the haunted house of Hysteria. There really is so much to enjoy at the Dubai Mall in addition to shopping.

#4 – Ski Dubai – One of the more unique places to visit in Dubai!

• The first indoor ski resort in the Middle East
• Home to cute colonies of penguins
• Lessons available for all levels of skiers
• Experience winter in the desert

Why it’s awesome: What could be more unusual than skiing and enjoying diverse snow sports while surrounded by desert?! That’s exactly what Ski Dubai offers—heaps of wintery fun! The large facility can be found in the Mall of the Emirates and was the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort.

A top way to get some respite from the heat, temperatures are kept at around -1 to 2 degrees Celsius (30 to 35 degrees Fahrenheit) at all times. It offers tons of fun for people of ages, so whether you’re travelling with friends, family, or your love interest you’ll have a great time there. You can book your full-day-ski-pass here.

What to do there: Don your warm clothes and practice your skiing techniques on the five slopes. If snowboarding is more your thing don’t worry—you can do that too. Have a go at bobsledding, tobogganing, snow tubing, and zorbing, tackle the climbing wall. And ride in a snow plough.

Have a blast in the snow, building snowmen, making snow angels, or simply enjoying a good old snowball fight. Don’t miss seeing the penguins too. The facility is home to both king penguins and Gentoo penguins. There’s a cool penguin parade each day, which is sure to enchant visitors old and young alike. Of all the Dubai place to see, this is the only one I can think of that involves snow.

#5 – The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve – Dubai’s first national park!

• riding on the back of a camel
• sand surfing on the dunes
• BBQ to finish the day

Why it’s awesome: Its camels, romance and surfing down the sand – it just doesn’t get any more awesome than exploring the Dubai Desert Conversation Reserve, Dubai’s first national park! This tour will take you roughly 60 km from the city centre, right into the red dunes. This is THE place to go in Dubai to get away from Dubai…

What to do there: With this EPIC 4×4 desert tour , you’ll be exploring the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve on the back of a camel, have a breathtaking view over the red sand and test your surfing skills down the dunes. The tour ends with a BBQ and, of course, traditional shisha for everyone. The desert is amongst the best places in Dubai to visit – do not miss this if you have the time.

#6 – Dubai Fountain – One of the most incredible free places to go to in Dubai

• Stunning show that combines water, music, and lights
• Free to watch
• Biggest choreographed fountain in the world
• Boat rides available

Why it’s awesome: Located outside of the famous Dubai Mall on the large Burj Khalifa Lake, the marvellous Dubai Fountain is the world’s biggest choreographed fountain. Created by the same company that designed the famous fountain show at the Bellagio Hotel in Las Vegas, shows take place at the Dubai Fountain at various times throughout the day.

There are many spots where you can watch the spectacular sound, light, and fountain show for absolutely free. This is a very popular place to go in Dubai so try to get here early though to secure a great spot.

What to do there: Be in awe of the stunning fountain show, set to traditional Arabian music, classical sounds, and contemporary tunes. Marvel at the exquisitely designed show, which incorporates perfectly synchronised jets of water, colourful lights, and music. Gasp as jets of water shoot up to 152 metres (500 feet) into the air and be blown away by the overall beauty and grace of the stunning fountain show.

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#7 – Jumeirah Beach – A perfect place to visit in Dubai if you are on a budget!

• Gorgeous white sand beach
• Stunning views
• Varied water activities
• Free to enjoy

Why it’s awesome: Fine white sands meet the sparkling blue waters of the Persian Gulf at Jumeirah Beach. There is no charge to enjoy the public beach and you’ll find various vendors and facilities close to hand, so it’s perfect if you’re visiting Dubai on budget .

Water sports are available at the beach, along with a variety of fun beach sports and activities, or you can simply relax and soak up the sun or bury your nose in a good book. The popular beach also offers great views of the ocean and city skyscrapers.

What to do there: Stroll along the white sandy shore and admire the ocean vistas and views of the city’s skyscrapers, including the iconic Burj al Arab. Spread your towel on the sands to soak up some sun or pay a small amount to rent a lounger and parasol. Paddle and swim in the sea (though do be sure to be cautious of undercurrents and rip tides and make sure that children, especially, do not go far from your reach).

Get some morning or evening exercise by walking, jogging, cycling, or skating along the long beach boulevard, pick up some refreshments from one of the beach vendors, and enjoy a day at the seaside in Dubai.

#8 – Dubai Miracle Garden – A beautiful and scenic place to check out in Dubai

• Romantic and scenic destination
• One of the biggest natural flower gardens across the globe
• Eco-friendly initiatives
• Certain elements in the Guinness Book of World Records
• One of the top places to visit in Dubai

Why it’s awesome: The stunning Dubai Miracle Garden is an award-winning attraction. Among the biggest flower gardens in the world, it contains many large and beautiful floral displays that are photogenic and impressive. The garden boasts around 50 million flowers in a wide array of hues and 250 million plants.

Opened on Valentine’s Day, it is a great destination for lovers with much natural beauty to admire. Some of the garden’s features appear in the Guinness Book of World Records. The garden featured in a Bollywood movie, with the director eager to show a different side to Dubai than simply towering buildings and high-tech elements.

What to do there: Wander through the pretty gardens, admiring the rich array of flora and inhaling the enticing scents. The aromatic garden is especially alluring. See the gigantic floral clock, observe the peacocks that roam the grounds, marvel at the huge Mickey Mouse topiary, and be awed by the gigantic Airbus A360 floral display (entered in the Guinness Book of World Records for being the biggest flower-created structure in the world).

Visit the world’s biggest indoor Butterfly Garden, home to around 15,000 attractive butterflies. Other great features include a castle made from millions of flowers, a passageway of umbrellas, a kids’ trampoline park, a walkway of hearts, a hill of flowers, a towering floral teddy bear, a shimmering lake, and a giant tortoise.

You’ll find various places to eat and drink throughout the gardens too, and there are plentiful opportunities to relax and simply enjoy being outdoors and away from the city’s hustle and bustle.

#9 – Dubai Museum – A fascinating educational place to visit in Dubai

• Housed in Dubai’s oldest existing building
• Wide assortment of artefacts from the Gulf states and beyond
• Interesting dioramas at the Dubai Museum
• Travel back through the ages

Why it’s awesome: Dubai Museum is located within the 1787 Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest remaining building in Dubai present on every backpacking Dubai travel guide (as it should be!). The mighty building exudes a sense of strength and history, having been used as a weapons storage facility, a defensive fortress, a prison, and a royal home in times gone by.

Providing insights into the Dubai of old, from a time before oil made the country rich and the modern buildings sprang up in the desert terrain, there are heaps of fascinating displays and exhibits. Open since the early 1970s, the museum seeks to preserve the traditional way of life and culture of Dubai. The museum is one of the best places to see in Dubai for those who want some historical context.

What to do there: Enter the mighty coral-built fortress through the cannon-flanked main entrance to appreciate the structure’s grandeur and strength. Gaze up at the old tower, which dates back to the 1780s, see the reconstructed city walls, and admire the traditional boat (known as a dhow) in the main courtyard.

Make your way around the diverse galleries and halls, seeing exhibitions of musical instruments, weapons, furniture, drawings, pottery, tombstones, and more.

Look into the various replica buildings, including mosques, souks complete with an ironmonger, tailor, carpenter, and other tradesmen, homes, a Bedouin tent, and farms, see how Dubai has changed over the years at the large dioramas, and learn more about the area’s traditional pearl-diving activities. There’s also an onsite gift shop.

#10 – Hatta – A very cool place in Dubai to go for a day

• Mountain landscapes
• Adventure activities
• One of the oldest preserved heritage areas in the country
• An hour away from the heart of Dubai

Why it’s awesome: Hatta is a gorgeous location in the Hajar Mountains. Scenic views and a sense of history make for a fantastic day out away from the skyscrapers and modern way of life. The mountain enclave has a cultural town with desert farms and a fortress and Hatta Heritage Village is a great place to see a way of life long since passed.

There are incredible viewpoints and the deep blues of the sparkling lake contrast with the reddish-grey rocks and arid terrain. Of all the places to go in Dubai for nature, Hatta is one of the best.

What to do there: Feast your eyes on natural splendour as you drive through the craggy mountains to Hatta. Inhale deliciously fresh air and try a variety of outdoor adventures—enjoy thrilling mountain biking and hiking, go kayaking on the shimmering lake, and spot a variety of nature.

Admire the vistas from Hatta Dam and learn more about the country’s past at Hatta Library. The Heritage Village is a must, with its ancient fort and recreated huts and houses. History is really brought to life.

#11 – Dubai Frame – A great place to see in Dubai if you love architecture

• Biggest frame in the world
• Set in pretty parkland
• Unusual structure
• Fabulous views
• One of the Dubai must see places

Why it’s awesome: Dubai Frame, open since early 2018, is one of Dubai’s most incredible landmarks. Standing at 150 metres (492 feet) tall, the large frame is 105 metres (345 feet) wide. Located in Zabeel Park, the structure is surrounded by grass, palm trees, and various other natural features.

Diverse leisure options are available in the park too. Not only is the frame itself a beautiful piece of architecture, made from aluminium, steel, glass, and concrete, but the whole point of the huge frame is to provide cool views of the city’s magnificent skyline and architectural marvels.

What to do there: Stand one side of the frame and see Dubai’s modern skyscrapers as if in a picture, and then move to the other side for a framed perspective of Old Dubai. Depending on your position you can compare and contrast the old and new parts of the city.

Take plenty of pictures of the Dubai Frame and the views through the massive structure. Aside from admiring the structure and getting your Insta-fix, the frame is a great spot to meet up and hang out. Locals and visitors use the area for jogging, skating, picnicking and simply hanging.

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#12 – Burj al Arab – One of the most amazing places in Dubai!

• Iconic landmark
• World’s fanciest hotel
• Striking architecture
• Located on an artificial island

Why it’s awesome: The stunning Burj al Arab is one of the most famous hotels in the world. Coined as the world’s only six-star hotel, it offers unrivalled luxury and pampering. You don’t have to be staying at the magnificent hotel to enjoy its splendour however; many people visit simply to admire the iconic structure from outside, marvelling at the sail-like form and gleaming profile.

Standing on an artificial island, the sea provides a gorgeous backdrop to the maritime-inspired building. The hotel has featured in several films and TV shows and diverse high-profile events have taken place at the lofty helipad, including Tiger Woods playing gold, David Coulthard driving an F1 racing car, and a tennis match between Andre Agassi and Roger Federer.

What to do there: If you really want to splash the cash and spoil yourself, book to stay in the world’s most lavish hotel and enjoy star-quality pampering. Guests can enjoy all trapping like the decadent spa, inviting swimming pools, modern fitness centre, and chauffeur-driven Rolls Royce. For a cheaper (though not cheap) experience you can also dine in one of the hotel’s world-class restaurants or indulge in afternoon tea or cocktails. Alternatively, admire the elegant building from the outside and snap plenty of pictures of the striking hotel.

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#13 – Palm Jueirah – Dubai’s collection of palm islands!

Why it’s awesome: The Palm Islands are a collection of three man-made islands that make up the shape of a palm. Palm Jumeirah is lined with luxury hotels with private beaches, making it the ideal place to stay if you want to be pampered and have a totally luxurious experience.

However, it is also a place best-seen from above. If you don’t have a drone, then you can sky dive and view the structure in all its glory.

What to do here: Take a stroll around the streets of the Palm Jumeirah or bathe on the private beach of one of the luxury hotels (if you’re staying there of course). To be honest, there isn’t much to see here from the ground, it’s more about having a luxury experience at one of the hotels.

#14 – Motiongate Dubai – Awesome place to visit in Dubai with kids!

• Fun theme park inspired by Hollywood
• Rides and attractions for people of all ages
• Fantastic family-friendly day out
• Live entertainment

Why it’s awesome: Motiongate Dubai, open since late 2016, has various cool areas with different Hollywood-inspired themes. There are diverse rides, attractions, and shows, with something to suit old and young alike. A popular place for a family outing, there are indoor and outdoor activities and attractions. The themed areas include Studio Central, Smurfs’ Village, DreamWorks, Lionsgate, and Colombia Pictures. Enter the world of film and the big screen and meet many well-known characters. There are places to eat and shop too.

What to do there: Get set for an active and fun day out at Motiongate Dubai. Discover the different enchanting areas and enjoy the cool rides. Enter the world of animation at DreamWorks, themed around movies like Shrek, Kung Fu Panda, and Madagascar, and enjoy the whimsical world of Smurfs’ Village. In Columbia Pictures you’ll find attractions based around Sony Picture productions, including Ghostbusters, The Green Hornet, and Hotel Transylvania.

Feel the rush on adrenaline-inducing rides like Blast Off, High Speed Chase, and Capitol Bullet Train, let your kids have a whale of a time in play areas like Flint’s Imagination Lab, Woodland Play Park, and the Smurfberry Factory, and have an interactive adventure at Underworld 4D and Unstoppable Awesomeness. Tap your feet at shows like King Julien’s Side Show Stop and Operation Penguin Shake, and make many magical memories.

#15 – Safa Park – A beautiful outdoor place to visit in Dubai

• Enjoy being outdoors
• Escape the crowded streets
• Sporting and leisure facilities
• Lots of flora and fauna

Why it’s awesome: Popular with locals and tourists alike, Safa Park is a pleasant place to unwind outdoors in Dubai. It’s easy to find a quiet place to relax and chill with a good book. Children can enjoy the play areas and there are facilities for jogging, cycling, tennis, basketball, volleyball, and football. The park’s landscapes include three lakes, a waterfall, and a small forest, and you can spot an array of wildlife. Each month Safa Park hosts a large flea market—visit on the first Saturday of the month for some bargain hunting.

What to do there: Choose a shaded spot to sit and relax and soak up the peaceful air, or get active and partake in some exercise. You can walk or run around the jogging track or grab your friends for a game of volleyball, tennis, or football. Stroll around the shimmering lakes and look out for the many bird species that call the park home. You’ll also likely spot butterflies, small mammals, and small reptiles too. Enjoy the great views of downtown Dubai, cook up a meaty feast at the BBQs, and enjoy an outdoor lunch at the picnic areas.

#16 – Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood – One of Dubai’s coolest historical sites!

• Experience a traditional way of life
• Step back in time
• Set next to the Dubai Creek
• Various cultural activities

Why it’s awesome: Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (also referred to as Al Bastakiya) offers a charming glimpse into Emirati life of times gone by. Sitting alongside the atmospheric Dubai Creek, the neighbourhood has much of its original streets and buildings.

Narrow alleyways wind through the olde-worlde buildings and the overall vibe is steeped in history and heritage. The way of life is peaceful and unhurried. There are vendors selling traditional foods and you’ll find a wealth of cultural establishments and small stores. A variety of events take place here throughout the year, including the Sikka Art Fair.

What to do there: Take a leisurely stroll through the winding streets and narrow lanes, absorbing the nostalgic energy and atmosphere. See buildings of old, a stark contrast to the more modern parts of Dubai. Hear whispers from the past as you walk past old homes and towers, imagining a life long since passed.

Learn how the people of yesteryear lived, before oil and wealth drastically changed the city. Travel back to the middle of the 19 th century and uncover past times at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Browse in the quaint art galleries and soak up the creative air and pause for a break and to watch the world go by in a cosy cafe.

One of my favorite things to do here is to visit an old Arabian tea house and enjoy a delicious lunch meal and some exquisite tea.

#17 – Dubai Garden Glow – Quite the quirky place in Dubai!

• Whimsical, colourful, and imaginative
• Perfect destination for families
• Blend of art, technology, and nature
• Environmentally-aware attraction that teaches people about global warming

What it’s awesome: Dubai Garden Glow is an enchanting and amazing evening destination in the large Zabeel Park. Old and young alike are sure to be mesmerised by the stunning lights and displays. While attractive during the day, watch as the park goes through a magical transformation as darkness descends, with many colourful illuminated features. Split into different areas, the park also has a terrific zone dedicated to recycling and eco-awareness. There are street entertainers to add to the carnival-like air and you’ll find various shows and places to eat and drink.

What to do there: Plan to spend at least a couple of hours exploring Dubai Garden Glow and try to time your visit to enjoy the garden both during the daylight and during the dark. Little ones can run and play in the wide open spaces and younger members of the family are all but guaranteed to be transfixed in the large Dinosaur Park. Home to around 120 huge animatronic dinosaurs, it’s certainly exciting!

Appreciate the eco-friendly Art Park, with its striking displays made of empty bottles, old ceramics, CDs, and other recycled items. Marvel at the exquisite ice sculptures in the Ice Park and be dazzled by the beautiful lights of Glow Park. There are lanterns, landmarks, flowers, and animals, all made from lights. Call into the food pavilion if you feel peckish.

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#18 – Dubai Opera – A great place to visit in Dubai at night

• Large performing arts venue
• See various types of shows and performances
• Designed to resemble a traditional sailing vessel
• Major cultural attraction

Why it’s awesome: Dubai Opera is a modern and eye-catching building that was built to look like a dhow, or traditional boat. It was the first purpose-built multi-arts venue in Dubai. The large venue can seat around 2,000 people at any given time and it hosts a variety of shows and events. The program includes musicals, plays, ballets, operatic performances, comedy shows, fashion shows, and more. The interiors are lavish and opulent and the building also has a restaurant and a beautiful sky garden.

What to do there: Check the listings and book tickets to see an event at the Dubai Opera. It’s definitely a great way to inject a little more culture into your stay. Admire the elegant building from the outside and inside and go up to the sky garden to see sweeping views across the city. The great views include the iconic Burj Khalifa and the sublime Dubai Fountain. Dine on delectable gourmet cuisine in the high-class restaurant too. This the best place to visit in Dubai for a blast of Wagner or Puccini although the idea of an opera in the desert is a bit Fitzcaraldo.

#19 – Grand Mosque – One of the most religious places to see in Dubai

• Large Islamic place of worship
• Hear the call to prayer five times per day from the soaring minaret
• One of the city’s most important religious buildings
• Beautiful architecture

Why it’s awesome: Dubai’s Grand Mosque is at the heart of local religious and spiritual life, and it’s also a major place for Islamic culture and social events. The original mosque was built at the start of the 20 th century, though it has been rebuilt several times since with the present mosque dating back to 1998. The towering minaret is one of the tallest in the country. Resembling a lighthouse, it’s an impressive piece of architecture. There are many fine details around the main body of the mosque, including glorious domes, stained glass, and Quranic calligraphy. Of all the Dubai must see places this is the most classical beautiful.

What to do there: Be sure to dress modestly to visit Dubai’s Grand Mosque (or any other place of worship for that matter). Walk around the courtyard and admire the building from the outside and watch as the faithful come to pray. Non-Muslims aren’t permitted in the main mosque, but you can look at the beautiful minaret. Standing at 70 metres (230 feet) tall, the lighthouse-like tower is the tallest in Dubai and one of the tallest in the UAE. Soak up the spiritual air in the heart of the old city. Come back to see the mosque at night time too when it is beautifully lit up.

#10 – Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve – An unknown (but awesome!) place to see in Dubai!

• Off-the-beaten-track destination
• Desert landscapes and pretty artificial lakes
• Diverse wildlife
• Sustainable tourism initiatives

Why it’s awesome: Situated just around a 30-minute drive from the hustle and bustle of downtown Dubai, Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve is a great place to discover the surrounding desert areas. It’s easy to forget that the modern and gleaming city of Dubai is almost entirely surrounded by arid desert. The first unfenced nature reserve in the country, it is home to an interesting array of flora and fauna. The man-made lakes are picturesque and the area also has fascinating archaeological sites too. Many locals come here to enjoy the natural beauty, though it sees relatively few international visitors. It makes a pleasant change to the high-tech aura, frenetic activity, and tall buildings of Dubai.

What to do there: Visit the extensive network of artificial lakes, the Al Qudra Lakes and spot interesting wildlife, including some rare and endangered species. Look out for butterflies, birds, lizards, frogs, fish, and rodents, and see around 40 different species of plants. The observation platforms are some of the best places to see different native wildlife. If you can bear the heat you can enjoy long bike rides along the 84-kilometre (52-mile) track.

Visit the Saruq Al Hadid Archaeological Site, discovered in 2002, to see an assortment of artefacts from the past. Things like jewellery, pottery, weapons, and tools were unearthed here. If you visit in the late afternoon you can witness a striking sunset and then stay for a spot of stargazing. With almost no light pollution it’s a great place for astronomy fans.

#21 – Bollywood Parks – Cool place to see in Dubai with friends!

• Unique theme park
• Experience Indian culture without leaving the Middle East
• Diverse rides, shows, and other attractions
• Plenty of fun for people of all ages

Why it’s awesome: A great place for a fun day out with your family or friends, Bollywood Parks is a unique theme park in Dubai. Indeed, it’s the world’s first theme park to be dedicated to the Indian movie industry. Inspired by the colours, music, and energy of Bollywood, the vibrant amusement park is divided into several captivating zones. There are exciting rides, captivating shows, and cool attractions as well as delicious Indian cuisine, gift shops, and backstage experiences.

What to do there: Get into the Bollywood groove as you explore the five different zones, all full of passion, colour, joy, emotion, action, romance, and adventure. Wander the scintillating Bollywood Boulevard, a riot of colour with enticing eateries and spellbinding shows. Experience Mumbai Chowk with its flair, zest, cuisine, and adventures, and immerse yourself even further into Indian life in the picturesque Rustic Ravine. This is a good place in Dubai to visit for fans of Bollywood – and there are at least a billion of them.

The decadent Royal Plaza is sure to impress and you can step into the silver screen at the Bollywood Film Studios. Enjoy an immersive cricket match at Thrill of Victory, compete against your mates at the Hunt for Gabbar Singh, enter the virtual world at Unleashed, fly high through the skies on Hero’s Flight, travel back in time at Crossroads, and enjoy all the glitz and glam at Stars on Steps. Don’t forget to pick up themed merchandise and fabulous outfits before you leave.

Pssst! Haven’t packed yet? Check out our ultimate Dubai Packing List to know what to bring with you on your Dubai adventure!

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#22 – Dubai Creek – One of the most romantic places to visit in Dubai!

• Scenic saltwater creek
• Long history
• Lined with interesting buildings
• Romantic boat rides

Why it’s awesome: Dubai creek connects the desert with the seaport, and was once a major trading route. It was once at the heart of the pearl trade and was/is a major place for fishing. It’s still a hive of activity today, with vessels of all sizes bobbing along the waters. The creek used to divide the city into two parts: Deira and Bur Dubai.

The Bani Yas tribal group first settled along the edges of the water. Several interesting buildings sit alongside the creek, including Dubai Creek Tower, the National Bank, and Deira Twin Towers, and there’s a pleasant Dubai park close to hand. A nice place for a stroll with your beloved, there are also several activities to enjoy here too.

What to do here: Admire the waterside vistas and take a walk alongside the creek. Admire the attractive buildings at the water’s edge and relax in the large Dubai Creek Park. Get a taste of port life at the Dhow Wharfage, an area filled with traditional sailing boats and a thronging place of activity.

Wave to the friendly sailors and watch as they unload their hauls and cargo. If you’re lucky, you may also catch a glimpse of street performers next to the creek. One of the most romantic things to do at Dubai Creek is to charter a ride on a dhow and admire the city from the water. You can also watch a splendid sunset in the evening times.

#23 – Spice Souk – Certainly one of the most exotic places to see in Dubai!

• Aromatic and colourful
• Pick up local gifts and souvenirs
• Get a sense of the Dubai of old
• Practice your haggling skills

Why it’s awesome: Part of the Old Souk, the spice souk specialises in fragrant spices from across the globe. You’ll also find a wealth of beautiful fragrances and perfumes too—it really is a place that appeals to the senses. Furthermore, there are also other goods for sale, including textiles, rugs, and souvenirs. The narrow twisty lanes are lined with open-air stalls and more traditional closed stores and the atmosphere is pretty old-fashioned. The spice souk is definitely a striking contrast to the modern malls and shopping centre in downtown Dubai. This is the Dubai place to go for a taste and smell of typical Arabic life.

What to do there: Get lost roaming the tiny alleyways and winding streets as you peruse a wide selection of spices and fragrances. You’ll find everything here from custom-made scents that smell like designer perfumes, teas, herbal remedies, culinary spices, and incense. Discover common spices used in local dishes and pick up items to take home with you. Don’t forget to haggle and negotiate if you do want to make a purchase. Inhale the rich aromas of things like cumin, saffron, pepper, garlic, turmeric, nutmeg, cinnamon, and cloves. The heady Arabian atmosphere transports you back in time and really gives you a sense of the exotic.

#24 – Jumeirah Mosque – One of the nicer places in Dubai to sightsee!

• Important place of Islamic worship
• Open to non-Muslim visitors
• Learn more about Islamic culture, traditions, life, and festivals

Why it’s awesome: Built in the late 1970s, Jumeirah Mosque has a traditional Fatimid style with elements from Egypt and Syria. The photogenic building is a popular place for tourists wishing to learn more about Islam. It is the only mosque in Dubai that permits entry to non-Muslims, though do be aware that you should be dressed modestly and that women are requested to cover their hair. (Items are available for visitors to borrow.) Informative, friendly, and educational tours are available for visitors.

What to do there: Admire the large pale building from the outside, taking in the visual beauty of the two minarets, domes, windows, and arches. Take a tour to learn more about the local way of life and beliefs, and feel free to ask questions and take photos. Listen for the harmonious call to prayer issued five times each day from the minarets. Try traditional snacks and drinks like coffee and dates. Try to visit the mosque in the evening too when it is splendidly illuminated.

#25 – Alserkal Avenue – One of the most underrated places to see in Dubai

• Hub for arts and culture
• Creative vibe
• Located in an old industrial area
• Cool shopping and dining opportunities

Why it’s awesome: Wondering where to go in Dubai for a bit of art? Well cool, creative, hip, and trendy, Alserkal Avenue is an up-and-coming part of Dubai. Once little more than an edgy industrial area, today you’ll find a wealth of excellent art galleries and other creative spaces alongside workshops, studios, stores, and offbeat eateries. Most establishments are housed within former warehouses and factories. The area grew from one single gallery that moved here in 2008. Today, it’s one of the freshest emerging districts in the whole of the Middle East.

What to do there: See the converted industrial buildings and soak up the creative vibe in the many art spaces. With around 60 art- and design-focused venues there’s something to cater to all tastes. Admire a wide selection of artistic works by both local and international artists, learn more about local community projects, watch performing art demonstrations, attend diverse workshops, and purchase unique items to take home with you.

Galleries in the area include Ayyam, El Seed, Green Art Gallery, Carbon 12 Dubai, Jean Paul Najar Foundation , and Gallery Isabelle van den Eynde. Check out the cultural events calendar and see what’s on when you’re visiting the city. Have a look in Salsali, the first private museum in Dubai, shop for hip fashions, gadgets, custom-made jewellery, and boutique lifestyle items, and stop for refreshments in one of the district’s cool cafes and restaurants.

#26 – Ras al Khor Bird Sanctuary – A nice quiet place to see in Dubai

• Wild wetlands close to the city
• Home to many bird species, reptiles, fish, and other creatures
• Attracts migratory species
• Top place for keen bird spotters and nature lovers

Why it’s awesome: Peaceful and quiet, it’s difficult to believe that the wetlands and wildlife of Ras al Khor Bird Sanctuary are just a stone’s throw from the urban sprawl of Dubai. The large sanctuary incorporates mudflats, lagoons, mangroves, and salt flats, with habitats suitable for many types of birds and other creatures.

There are fish, crustaceans, reptiles, and small mammals in the sanctuary too, with some species using the area as a breeding ground. It’s an absolute hidden gems in Dubai and one of the few places to get up close to nature near the modern desert-surrounded city.

What to do there: Admire the varied terrain and settle down in a hide to watch for a variety of wildlife. There are so many species of birds to look out for, including kingfishers, egrets, herons, ospreys, storks, peafowl, eagles, and wagtails. The sanctuary is especially known for its huge numbers of pretty pink flamingos in the winter months. You may also see fish, rodents, and other small creatures.

#27 – Kite Beach – An awesome place to visit in Dubai for half a day!

• Clean and tidy sandy beach
• Great water sports options
• Family-friendly destination
• Good seaside facilities

Why it’s awesome: Kite Beach is one of the best beaches in Dubai. It boasts white sands and a laid-back vibe. There are plenty of opportunities to be adventurous out on the waves too, with activities like surfing, kitesurfing, and stand-up paddle boarding. There’s also no shortage of beach games to watch or join in with, and you’ll find amenities like bathrooms and showers close to the beach. It’s free to visit the public beach. The food trucks and refreshment carts are ideal for keeping hunger and thirst at bay.

What to do there: If you’re after water sports, head to Kite Beach in the afternoon for the best conditions. There are rental stores close to the beach if you need equipment, then you’re good to go! Hit the waves and enjoy active watery adventures! Kayaking, kite surfing, and paddle boarding are just a few things you can do at Kite Beach. You can also relax in the sun, join in with a game of beach volleyball, build a sandcastle, paddle in the sea, and take a long walk along the coast. Lap up the views of the Burj al Arab and, if you visit on a Friday or Saturday, shop for trinkets and souvenirs in the seaside market.

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Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in Dubai

What is the most romantic place to visit in Dubai?

Visiting the Arabian Desert at sunset is one of the most romantic places to visit in Dubai for couples.

What is the best place to visit in Dubai with the family?

Ski Dubai is an indoor ski slope and a great place to visit with the family.

What is a free place to visit in Dubai?

The Dubai Mall is free to walk around and is the largest mall in the world. It also has some pretty nice A/C.

What should I not miss in Dubai?

If you’re visiting Dubai for a short trip, you should not miss the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

Work through these best places to visit in Dubai for a diverse, fascinating, and memorable trip to one of the coolest destinations in the Middle East. Covering shopping, iconic landmarks, culture, heritage, and nature, there’s definitely something to keep everyone happy.

You’ll find a good selection of budget-friendly attractions and some great hostels and activities in Dubai, so there’s no need to worry too much about making your bank manager angry! Have a great time discovering the city’s highlights and hitting up the very best places to visit in Dubai.

Insider Tip: If you have the money and don’t want to spend hours in the car, driving from one hot spot to the next, you should check out this helicopter tour. Instead of exploring the city from below, you can simply fly over Dubai and have an amazing adventure that not many people get to experience!

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Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in UAE 2024/2025

Top Tour Operators and Travel Agencies in UAE. Below you will find 22 of the best tour operators and travel agencies in UAE offering in total 100 tours and holidays through-out UAE. Combined they have received 82 customer reviews and an average rating of 5 out of 5 stars. The top tour activities offered in UAE are: Sightseeing, attractions, culture and history, Adventure and sport & Wildlife, landscapes and nature.

• Tours in UAE
• UAE Travel Guide
• Best Time to Visit Dubai
• Best Time to Visit UAE

22 Tour Operators in UAE with 82 Reviews

Luxury Holidays Nepal Pvt. Ltd

• Address Nayabazar-16, Kathmandu, Nepal, Kathmandu, Nepal
• Response Rate 93%
• Response Time 1 hour

• Best-in-Class Top 5% of companies
• Excellent Service Top 10% of companies
• Superior Service Top 15% of companies

On The Go Tours

• Address 3 Shortlands, 4th floor, Office 19, Hammersmith, England
• Response Rate 88%

Orient Tours

• Address Orient Tours , Sharjah, UAE
• Response Rate 89%
• Response Time 3 hours

The Yellow Boats

• Address Dubai Marina Walk, beside Reem Al Bawadi Restaurant, Dubai, UAE
• Response Rate 56%
• Response Time 2 hours

See X Sea Cruise Line

• Address Dubai Marina, Dubai, UAE
• Response Rate 43%

Emirates Tours and Safari LLC

• Address 604, 6ht Floor, Tessco Building, Zayed the first Street, Abu Dhabi, UAE
• Response Rate 45%

BoatCharter AE

• Address Room 405 Elite Business Center, Al Barsha, UAE

Encounters Travel

• Address Leigh House, Varley Street, Leeds, England
• Response Rate 94%

Daytur Dubai

• Address Churchill Tower Business Bay Dubai, Dubai, UAE
• Response Rate 63%

Splash Tours UAE

• Address Dubai Marina Al Seba Street , Dubai, UAE

Desert Springs Tourism LLC

• Address Deira Business Center Office No. G-10, Dubai, UAE
• Response Rate 20%

Travtur Tourism L.L.C

• Address Clover Bay Tower .11th Floor Office 1111 Business Bay, Dubai, UAE
• Response Rate 86%

Travelux Day Tours L.L.C

• Address Al Kharbash Building, Dubai, UAE
• Response Rate 40%

VooTours Tourism LLC

• Address Office No. 26, 2nd Floor, Millennium Tower, Hamdan Bin Mohammed Street,, Abu Dhabi, UAE

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Dubai Travel Guide

It’s hard to believe when confronting the sheer scale of Dubai, but most of the city was built in just the last 50 years. It makes the world’s biggest shopping mall, tallest skyscraper, and a host of ultra-luxurious hotels all the more bewildering. Still, amid all the glamor and superlatives, there are vestiges of a pre-skyscraper Dubai, in its winding souks and the vast empty desert that surrounds the city. Here’s how to navigate both sides of this always-growing metropolis.

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This Glamorous Middle Eastern City Has Luxury Hotels, Thrilling Desert Adventures, and Michelin-starred Dining

Here's how to plan the perfect visit to Dubai.

• Best Hotels & Resorts

Best Things to Do

Best shopping, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, neighborhoods to visit, how to get around.

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Dubai is full of contrasts. There's the glittering skyline of skyscrapers so tall they defy imagination. There is the modern collection of stores and eateries, offering every option a traveler could want. And then there are the luxurious hotels, ready to welcome even the most discerning traveler in style and excess. Then there's the desert with its rolling hills of sand stamped with the footprints of Arabian oryx and gazelles; the souks with their labyrinth of stalls, bins overflowing with a rainbow of spices; and the traditional abra boats ferrying riders across the Dubai Creek.

“Dubai is the ideal destination for tourists, and there are a number of reasons why,” Farida Ahmed, a guide and owner of Frying Pan Adventures , told Travel + Leisure . “It is safe, whether you are traveling solo or as a family. That, for me, is one of the most pivotal points on which tourism rests."

The city, one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has sprouted up from its desert port beginnings to become a sprawling metropolis full of vibrant neighborhoods, record-setting buildings, and over-the-top shopping centers all in the last several decades. "There is something for everyone and everyone's pocket — if you’re looking for budget travel you can absolutely do it in Dubai," said Ahmed.

Today, Dubai can be fast and slow at the same time — a place to grab an avocado toast and relax on the beach, a place to appreciate a desert conservation reserve, and a place to shop 'til you drop, all in the same day. It's these contrasts that make Dubai one of the most dynamic and interesting cities in the world.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Armani hotel dubai.

This luxurious hotel is located in one of the most famous buildings in Dubai and the world: the Burj Khalifa. Armani Hotel Dubai takes up the first eight floors as well as the 38th and 39th floors of the world's tallest tower, offering incredible views of the city and the Arabian Gulf below. Rooms are designed by the hotel's namesake, Giorgio Armani, and feature muted colors that will relax any guest after a long day of shopping at nearby The Dubai Mall.

Burj Al Arab

If the Burj Khalifa is the most recognizable building in Dubai, the Burj Al Arab is a close second. Inside this iconic sail-shaped building floating in the middle of The Gulf is one of the most stunning hotels in the city. Each colorful room comes with Hermes amenities and butler service as well as access to the hotel's private beach.

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa

Set against rolling sand dunes and roaming oryx, Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa offers guests an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city with 42 individual suites all with their own private pools overlooking unobstructed views of the pristine desert. During your stay, book a dune drive to get your heart pumping or go on a guided nature walk in the desert. In the morning, sit down to breakfast on the veranda and keep your eyes peeled for a few gazelles popping by to say hello over coffee.

Queen Elizabeth 2

This unique property was once a working cruise ship that has been converted into a hotel , permanently docked in Dubai. The 13-deck ship features 447 refurbished hotel rooms and suites — including the Royal Suite with a large wood-lined private deck — restaurants, a spa, and a theater. History buffs can tour the ship's bridge and see what the cabins looked like in the 1960s before settling in for a leisurely afternoon tea complete with finger sandwiches, traditional cakes, and warm scones with clotted cream.

XVA Art Hotel

XVA Art Hotel is a boutique hotel that feels like stepping back in time with its romantic shaded courtyards, dark wood, and rich textiles. The hotel, which was built in what used to be a home in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, has 15 individually designed rooms all located around three courtyards. And don't miss a chance to walk through the hotel's art gallery, which features contemporary art from both established and emerging artists.

Frying Pan Adventures

One of the best ways to experience a place is through its food and these food tours offer to paint visitors a culinary map of Dubai, which Ahmed said has “now established itself as one of the culinary meccas of the world.” Try sweet milky tea in the back alleys of a souk, meat and rice pilaf , stuffed falafels, or learn about the custom of making Arabic coffee while also learning about the history of the city with one of the many female guides. 

Global Village

Dubai's Global Village is unlike anything else, showcasing more than 70 cultures at different country pavilions where visitors can shop, eat, and more. Bring a camera and capture a cool photo "for the 'gram" at one of the "selfie spots" or catch one of the many shows.

Skiing in the desert is possible at Ski Dubai where an indoor slope in the Mall of the Emirates allows ski and snowboard enthusiasts to clip or strap in and hone their skills. Playing in the snow more your thing? Try the twin-track bobsled experience or take some time to hang out with the resident gentoo and king penguins.

Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest tower in the world and the view from the top is rightfully spectacular. Take in Dubai's many neighborhoods with this bird's eye view from the 125th floor or book a spot on the world's highest observation deck with an outdoor terrace on the 148th floor. The Burj Khalifa VIP experience includes access to the world’s highest lounge on the 154th floor. 

Ahmed recommended checking the weather forecast before you book a trip up the Burj Khalifa, noting that “if it's not a clear day you are not going to be seeing anything but haze.” For your best chance of a clear view, she noted that “the sky tends to be clearer before sunset.”

Royal Shaheen

Learn all about falconry from a team of professional falconers on a tour with Royal Shaheen — and get the chance to handle some of the magnificent animals yourself. These tours are interactive and family-friendly, and allow guests to learn both traditional and modern falconry training techniques.

The Dubai Mall holds the Guinness World Record for the largest shopping center in the world with more than 1,200 retail outlets, including two major department stores: Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale's. It also has more than 200 food and beverage outlets. Basically, it's so big you could easily get lost for days. The mall even developed its own app with turn-by-turn navigation to help shoppers reach (and return from) their destination. Beyond shopping, the mall has an aquarium and an Olympic-sized ice rink. The vibe and decor change depending on which part of the mall you're in, so plan to spend some time exploring. An added bonus: it's air-conditioned.

Mall of the Emirates

The Mall of the Emirates is slightly smaller than the Dubai Mall, but still features more than 630 brands and more than 100 places to grab a bite. Beyond the stores themselves, visitors will find the city's indoor ski slope and a bowling alley. (If your phone dies while you're shopping, you can borrow a portable charger for free.)

The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence

This shopping destination stretches along more than one mile of beachfront and features both international designers and fun pop-up markets. Check out Sauce for beachy and boho-inspired dresses and cool rattan bags before grabbing a bite at one of the restaurants overlooking the gulf.

Textile and Gold Souks

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Dubai may be known for its modern skyscrapers, but there's another side to the city where traditional souks sell everything from souvenirs to beautiful scarves. Choose from towering racks of fabric at the Textile Souk in the historic Bur Dubai neighborhood or hop across the Dubai Creek to browse endless rows of jewelry stores selling gold bangles and sparkling gems in the Gold Souk . And remember: haggling is all part of the fun.

Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant

Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant is part museum and part eatery. The restaurant, which boasts a covered dining courtyard with a tree, has live music, and fresh-made bread, and the staff is dressed in traditional robes. “Do not leave the city without trying Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant," said Ahmed. "It is one of the few restaurants in Old Dubai that's been recognized. The food is great and I love the decor.” The restaurant has earned the Michelin's Bib Gourmand designation.

Al Farooj Al Shami Restaurant

The Syrian fare served at Al Farooj Al Shami is second to none. Grilled meats, fresh-made sauces, and a mouth-watering list of hot appetizers make this local spot one of Ahmed’s must-visits.

Comptoir 102

You'd be forgiven for thinking you were in California or Tulum when you settled into the shaded courtyard of Comptoir 102 . Order an avocado crostini, halloumi salad, or gluten-free buckwheat pancakes, and recharge with a chai latte made with homemade almond milk. After you're done eating at this organic cafe, pop over to the attached concept store where you'll find boho dresses, unique glassware, jewelry, and more.

Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams

Dinner at Al Hadheerah is more than just a meal, it's an experience. Ten live cooking stations delight guests as they feast under the stars in the middle of the desert, offering classic dishes like shawarma and lamb ouzi cooked underground as well as salads like hummus and tabbouleh. And don't forget dessert where you can sample favorites like kunafa and baklava. Reservations are recommended.

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter when the year-round hot weather starts to cool. In general, temperatures start to dip in October and it remains only moderately hot through May. While the hot season is from June to September, it's worth noting that air conditioning is plentiful across Dubai.

“The really amazing months for me are November to February,” said Ahmed, who noted that when winter arrives in Dubai, “we literally crawl out of our hibernation phase and it's all about spending time at the beach and desert BBQs.”

Winter is also when the Dubai Shopping Festival takes place. It's a December and January event that is known for its great deals, live entertainment, and raffles.

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The best way to get into Dubai is by plane. Thousands of flights arrive at Dubai International Airport (DXB) each week, making it one of the busiest airports in the world. It is located in the northern part of the city, making it the best option for travelers who will be staying and playing on the northern side of Dubai.

The newer Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), also known as Dubai World Central, started welcoming travelers in 2013 and is still under construction. The airport provides access to the growing southern end of the city. When it is completed, it will be the world’s largest airport.

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This area is a collection of neighborhoods around Dubai Creek (Khor Dubai) , including Deira and the Al Fahidi historical neighborhood . A stroll through this area — lined with low-profile gypsum, sand, and coral buildings — will give visitors a small taste of what Dubai was like before the modern construction boom. Spend some time exploring the area's souks or hop on an abra for a boat ride along the creek, which used to be the entry to the pearl diving port.

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Jumeirah Beach Residences and Dubai Marina

These neighborhoods, which sit next to each other, form one of the best places to go for a waterfront stroll. Grab a bite to eat with a view of the gulf in Jumeirah Beach Residences before getting ice cream and walking over to the marina to watch the sunset on the water, surrounded by towering modern skyscrapers.

Downtown Dubai

This is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in the city, home to the Dubai Mall, the Burj Khalifa, and the Dubai Fountain , which puts on a fantastic show every 30 minutes each night. Shop 'til you drop, head up to the top of the tallest tower in the world, or grab a seat at one of the many restaurants surrounding the fountain for dinner and a show.

Palm Jumeirah

This palm-shaped island is man-made and dotted with luxury hotels and beach clubs. Kids will love the over-the-top waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm , while adults will enjoy whiling away the day at one of the many pool decks. For a bird's eye view of the island itself, try skydiving — just remember to stop screaming long enough to take it all in.

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Taxis are the default way to get around Dubai, but if you want to really explore the city and the neighboring emirates, Ahmed recommended renting a car. “It will make your life easier plus it will open up the possibility for you to explore the other emirates in the UAE. If time is of the essence, get yourself a car,” she said.

She noted that the metro is great if you’re staying in and traveling around Old Dubai, but if you want to explore New Dubai or go further afield, taxi hires and car rentals are the easiest way to get around.

Taxis: Dubai has an extensive network of taxis that bring travelers throughout the city. It's easy to hail a taxi at popular attractions like the malls and the beach. For women who feel more comfortable with a female driver, the city even has " Ladies and Families " taxis, which are always driven by women. Those looking to schedule a taxi ride can use apps like Uber and Careem, which operate throughout the city.

Trains: The Dubai Metro is cooler than your average subway, featuring automated and sleek cars, WiFi, and even separate cars that women and children can use. (The Red Line even holds the Guinness World Record for the longest driverless metro line at more than 32 miles long.) There are nearly 30 metro stations and a good amount of the track is outdoors, passing by iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and making it a great way to see the city and get from Point A to B. Passengers can purchase single, return, or day-pass tickets — or get a cashless smart card called Nol.

Buses: Dubai has more than 1,500 buses that cover a hefty majority of the city's urban areas.

Abra : Travelers can ride these traditional wooden boats between the Bur Dubai area and the Deira area where Dubai's Gold Souk, Textile Souk, and Spice Souk are located.

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Dubai Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

I found myself loving my first visit here so much that I extended my stay.

Dubai is a city trapped between worlds. It’s a place with a conservative culture and old-world customs while at the same time a Middle-Eastern Vegas where anything goes (so long as it’s behind closed doors). There’s a lot of partying that happens here.

But, beyond that, I was surprised at how much there was to do in this city. This city is more than just a flashy place to spend money. There’s a lot of cultural activities, museums, attractions, tours, and things to do here.

Dubai is a fascinating, multicultural city that deserves a lot more than a stopover. This travel guide to Dubai will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Dubai

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. Visit the Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world, which opened in 2010, boasts a whopping 163 floors. You can go up to the 125th floor for 169 AED for epic views of the city. And for 399 AED you can climb even higher to floor 148 and visit the exclusive lounge. From there, you get panoramic views of the city and desert. Towering 555 meters (1,820 feet), the iconic tower contains a hotel, private residences, corporate offices, and a bar/lounge. At night, the building is illuminated by a spectacular light show of fish, palm trees, and other scenes while the fountain below dances to music. Get your tickets in advance here .

2. Take a desert safari

If you want to get a taste of the desert, head out on a day-long safari . You’ll be able to explore the desert, watch for birds and other wildlife, eat some traditional food, and take in the sweeping vistas. Tour offerings include desert jeep tours, camel riding tours, and horseback riding excursions. A day-long excursion starts at around 439 AED per person.

3. Visit Global Village

This is a massive entertainment extravaganza, with shopping, dining, and live performances all coming together to create an incredible cultural experience. It’s like Epcot Center at Disney World, except it showcases the different cultures of the Middle East. Enjoy ice-skating at Snowfest Ice Rink, visiting Ripley’s Believe It or Not, or taking a thrilling ride at Carnaval amusement park. Admission is only 18 AED.

4. Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden

This quirky and colorful garden opened in 2013 and is spread over 72,000 square meters (775,000 square feet), making it the world’s largest natural flower garden. It’s home to over 150 million flowers and all kinds of flower and plant sculptures. In addition to the natural beauty, you can experience various performances that change each week, and a daily flower parade with live music and choreographed dancers in full flower garb. If you get hungry during your visit there are more than 30 food and beverage options including cafes, candy shops, and healthy juice bars. Admission is 75 AED.

5. Have fun at Kite Beach

If you’re into kitesurfing or water sports, this is a cool place to catch some waves. The artificial beach is one of the most popular in Dubai and features lots of sugary white sand, kids’ activities, food and beverage vendors, fitness areas, and even a library. The winds pick up in the afternoon, making it a good time to hit the water or just sit back and watch others do it. If watersports aren’t your thing, come here to catch some rays and relax as it’s free and open to the public.

Other Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. wander the marina.

The marina area is surrounded by tall buildings and is composed of a beautiful scenic boardwalk. Here you’ll find lots of fancy boats, beautiful condos, and bars and restaurants overlooking the harbor. Be sure to check out Pier 7, which is seven floors of restaurants and bars on the water. Personally, I liked Asia Asia, with its gaudy Asian theme.

2. Hit the mall

Malls in Dubai are not like malls anywhere else in the world. There are over 65 malls in the city with more on the way. People love going to malls here! Between the Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, you’ll find a ton of amazing things to see and do. There’s luxury shopping, nightly fountain shows, an aquarium inside the Dubai Mall (which has a 270-degree underwater tunnel you can walk through), and even indoor skiing at the Mall of the Emirates (the Mall of the Emirates also has over 650 stores and 100 restaurants). You can also visit the world’s largest themed mall, the Ibn Battuta Mall. It has a Moroccan theme and is named after the eponymous explorer (it has over 270 stores and 50 restaurants too). Be sure to dress appropriately and avoid tank tops, shorts, or mini-skirts.

3. Visit the Grand Mosque

Located in nearby Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is definitely worth a half-day trip. Built between 1996-2007, the mosque and its surrounding gardens span over 30 acres. It’s almost all white too, giving it a very majestic look. It’s a 90-minute drive from Dubai (about 290 AED each way in a taxi or 25 AED on the bus). You’ll want to make sure you wear appropriate clothing since it is a place of worship (they have cover-up items available for anyone without suitable attire). During Eid, upwards of 41,000 people visit the mosque each day. Admission is free.

4. Explore Old Dubai

This is Dubai as it used to be. Markets (like the famous gold market) pepper the area, small shops line the streets, and you can get lost in a dizzying maze of alleyways. Take a boat across Dubai Creek to Deira (you can ride an abra, a traditional wooden boat) and wander aimlessly around the streets, eat at some of the traditional restaurants, explore the art district, and see Dubai as it is away from the glitz of the malls and high-rises. Don’t miss the Dubai Frame (a landmark offering the best views of the city), the gold market (which has upwards of 10 tons of gold at any time), and the spice souk (a large spice market you can browse).

5. Tour the Jumeirah Mosque

Opened in 1979, this beautiful mosque is one of two in the city you can actually visit. Built in the Fatimid style, it consists of one large room and there is a guided tour every day at 10am and 2pm (except Fridays). It’s 35 AED and comes with a great breakfast spread. If you don’t know much about Islam or the role it plays in the UAE, it’s a pretty interesting and educational tour.

6. Go deep-sea fishing

It’s quite easy to book a spot on a boat and head out to sea if you want to try your hand at deep-sea fishing. Tour operators cater to all ages and levels of experience, and most packages even include lunch. Prices vary depending on what sort of vessel you book and how long you go but expect to pay 1,500 AED for a 4-6-hour trip.

7. Relax at Jumeirah Beach

This white-sand beach is a fantastic place to sunbathe and stroll along the boardwalk. Located along the coast just south of the city’s historic district, there are lots of shops to visit, and there is even an outdoor movie theater. Not only is this a great place to visit, but it’s a great area to stay because you’re surrounded by so many things to do. There are playgrounds here for kids as well as areas to BBQ. It’s perfect for picnics but gets super busy on the weekend so try to enjoy it during the week to beat the crowd.

8. Wander the Palm Islands

On this famous man-made palm tree-shaped island , you’ll find a large shopping walkway, the Atlantis resort, the Aquaventure waterpark, and a host of fancy restaurants, bars, and clubs. It’s beautiful to walk around and explore during the day (at night, it’s pretty boring!).

9. Visit the Souk Madinat Jumeirah

This souk (market) is in a modern building designed to look like something out of Aladdin but it’s actually home to some incredible restaurants. There’s a beautiful inner courtyard pond in this complex, too. Come here if you want to splurge if you’re a foodie! Don’t miss Al Makan for local dishes, Anar for Persian cuisine, and The Noodle House for tasty Asian eats.

10. Binge at brunch

Brunch is a tradition among locals and expats. Every Friday, everyone flocks to a midday buffet of unlimited drinks and food. As the day goes on, it often turns into debauchery that would make Nero proud. However, brunch is not a cheap affair, costing as much as 700 AED. Ask your hotel/hostel staff where the cheapest brunches are. You can usually find some for under 200 AED.

Dubai Travel Costs

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at 285 AED in peak season. In the off-season, budget rooms cost around 90 AED. Expect basic amenities like a TV, tea/coffee maker, and AC.

There are lots of Airbnb options in Dubai. A private room starts around 100 AED per night though you should expect to pay double (or even triple or quadruple) if you don’t book early. Enrire homes/apartments start around 250 AED per night, however, they average triple that price so book early.

Food – Emirati cuisine takes influences from its Middle Eastern neighbors. More recently, as an international hub, you can find all kinds of internal flavors here as well. Popular dishes in Dubai include hummus, shawarma, shish tawook (grilled kebabs), and knafeh (a sweet cheese pastry topped with rose syrup and pistachios). Dates and fish are common staples, with camel milk being a more traditional addition to the diet. Popular spices include saffron, cinnamon, and turmeric.

In Dubai, a meal out costs around 65 AED while dinner for two with drinks usually averages 190-300 AED. For fast food like McDonald’s, expect to pay around 30 AED for a combo meal.

A large pizza costs around 45 AED while Chinese food is around 50 AED. A beer is about 45 AED while a latte or cappuccino is 19 AED. Bottled water is around 2 AED.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay around 500 AED per week for groceries including pasta, vegetables, meat or fish, and other basic staples.

Backpacking Dubai Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 260 AED per day you can stay in a hostel, cook all your meals, take public transportation to get around, skip drinking, and do mostly free activities like enjoying the beach and visiting the malls and mosques. If you plan on drinking, add 40-80 AED extra per day.

On a mid-range budget of 870 AED per day, you can stay in a cheap hotel or Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a couple drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities, such as a desert safari.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,425 AED, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink as much as you’d like, go out for a brunch, take paid tours, visit the Burj Khalifa, and rent a car for some day trips. The sky is the limit here!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AED.

Dubai Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Dubai is an expensive city. If you’re hanging out in the malls and restaurants that cater to expats, you’re going to spend a lot of money. That said, there are a few things you can do to cut costs so you don’t blow your budget. Here are some quick tips to help you save money in Dubai:

• Use Groupon – Groupon is huge in Dubai and you can find tons of discounts, 2-for-1 specials, and deals on the website. If there is something you want to do, check there first as there is a high chance you’ll find a discount.
• Get The Entertainer – The Entertainer is a magazine and app that offers discounts and specials on restaurants, hotels, and activities. Pick up a copy when you arrive in Dubai. It’s not cheap but sometimes you can find the app 50% off or get a free trial. There are monthly subscriptions starting at 35 AED per month and a “lite” version that is free. If you plan to see and do a lot, it’s worth the price.
• Find happy hours – Dubai is full of happy hours. Plan your drinking accordingly to avoid the city’s high-priced booze.
• Skip the booze – Outside the happy hours and all-you-can-eat brunches, drinking is expensive so I would go easy on the drinking during your visit — or skip it altogether if you’re on a budget.
• Eat in Old Dubai – Step away from the hotels, malls, and fancy souks meant to make you think you are in Aladdin and head into Old Dubai for cheap eats.
• Pick accommodation near the metro – Make sure your accommodation is near a metro stop. You don’t want to be walking around unnecessarily when it’s scorching hot and public transportation is much cheaper than taxis.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in Dubai so bring a reusable water bottle to reduce your single-use plastic usage. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Dubai

Dubai doesn’t have a lot of hostels so you’ll want to book in advance if you plan to stay in a hostel. Here are my suggested places to stay in Dubai:

• Green Sky Apartments
• Bombay Backpackers DXB
• Bohemian Backpackers

How to Get Around Dubai

Public transportation – Dubai’s metro consists of nearly 50 stations. You can get to wherever you need to go, or close to it, with public transportation. Hours of operation depend on the day but both lines start operating from around 5:30am until about 1am. On Fridays, however, the trains don’t start running until 10am.

You’ll need a Nol Card to get around and you can buy the card at any of the ticket offices at the metro stations for 25 AED.

Fares depend on which of the zones you are traveling to. A standard ticket for one zone is 4 AED, for two zones it’s 6 AED, and if you are traveling through 3 or more zones it’s 8.50 AED.

If you can’t get to where you’re going by subway, the bus will get you there. Like the metro, the bus has different zones, and the Nol card is used as payment.

Ferry – The ferry in Dubai runs daily from three different terminals in the marina. Evening trips on the ferry are much busier, so be sure to get to the terminal 30 minutes early. Tickets range from 15-50 AED for silver class (seats in the main section of the boat) and 25-75 AED for gold class (more comfortable seats at the front of the boat).

Taxi – Taxis start at 12 AED and go up by around 2.50 AED per kilometer. Skip them if you can. They add up quickly!

Ridesharing – Uber and Careem are the two main ridesharing apps in Dubai. They aren’t usually cheaper than a standard taxi but they tend to be a lot more convenient.

Bicycle – Bikes can be rented from Nextbike for around 20 AED per hour or 80 AED per day.

Car rental – If you’re leaving the city, cars can be rented for around 190 AED per day. I would only rent one if you’re leaving the city. Otherwise, just use public transportation to get around. It will be much faster!

When to Go to Dubai

The most popular time to visit Dubai is between November-April. The weather is cooler and perfect for desert safaris, with daily highs averaging around 27°C (80°F). Flights and accommodation will be more expensive during this time though so plan accordingly.

May-August is the low season as Dubai just gets too warm. Daily highs average around 41°C (106°F) and make exploring the city unbearable. I visited in August and it was brutal. Skip the summer if you can!

The shoulder season between September and October is when the sea becomes perfect for swimming and water sports. It’s much less busy during this time so you’ll find fewer crowds and cheaper prices too.

How to Stay Safe in Dubai

Dubai is a very safe city. Violent crime is incredibly rare here. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, though they’re quite rare too. As long as you keep your valuables secure while you’re out and about you likely won’t have any issues.

Be aware that many activities that are legal in other countries are not legal in Dubai, such as displays of public affection between unmarried or LGBTQ partners, drunken behavior, dressing immodestly, swearing, photographing people without their permission, and criticizing UAE’s government.

You’ll need to dress and act conservatively here. All the wild and crazy stuff in the city happens behind closed doors. It’s a see no evil kind of thing. Don’t push the limit in public or you’re likely to get into serious trouble. Be extra cautious about being wild or “immodest” here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.) when you’re here. For an extra layer of safety, use the female-only cars on the metro. For more information, check out one of the many solo female travl blogs on the city to help you out.

Scams here are rare. If you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read my post on common travel scams to avoid .

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for the police, 998 for an ambulance, and 997 for the fire department.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Dubai Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Dubai Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Dubai and continue planning your trip:

How to Save Money in Dubai (and 9 cool things to do there!)

Dubai: The Las Vegas of the Middle East?

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

Top 15 Travel Agencies in Dubai, UAE with Best Offers

Main Points

Plan Your Trip with these Top Travel Agencies In Dubai:

Traveling is a joyous experience no matter where you go. But organizing a trip might not be the simplest of things. You can use one of the top travel companies in Dubai for a practical trip arrangement.

Whether planning a family vacation, a romantic getaway, or a solo adventure, choosing the right travel agency can make all the difference. Your local, national, and international travel needs, from work trips to family holidays, are catered to by these businesses.

These travel experts possess the local knowledge, expertise, and passion to craft unforgettable journeys tailored to your preferences. We’ve put together a list of the top tour operators in the area who can assist you in creating the ideal vacation.

Let’s explore the benefits of using travel agencies and check out the best ones in Dubai. Get ready for an unforgettable journey!

Why Choose a Travel Agency for your Trip/Vacation?

Travel agencies are your ultimate travel companions, offering a plethora of benefits that make your trip planning a breeze. Here are some key advantages:

• Hassle-free Planning: Say goodbye to the headache of researching, booking, and organizing every aspect of your trip. Travel agencies take care of everything, from flights and accommodations to tours and activities, saving you valuable time and energy.
• Expert Guidance: With their in-depth knowledge of Dubai and the surrounding areas, travel agency professionals can provide personalized recommendations and insider tips, ensuring you get the most out of your journey.
• Cost Savings: Contrary to popular belief, using a travel agency can often save you money. These agencies have access to exclusive deals and packages, securing you the best rates for flights, accommodations, and activities.
• Tailored Itineraries: No two travelers are the same, and neither should their itineraries be. Travel agencies design custom-made experiences to match your interests, preferences, and budget, creating a trip that’s uniquely yours.
• 24/7 Support: Should any unexpected hiccups occur during your trip, rest assured that your travel agency has your back. They provide round-the-clock support to ensure your journey remains smooth and stress-free.

How a Travel Agency Can Help You Save Money on Your Next Trip/Vacation

Planning a vacation can be exciting, but it can also be overwhelming and costly. That’s where a travel agency comes to the rescue! Many people assume that using a travel agency will only add to the expenses, but in reality, it can be a smart move that helps you save money in more ways than one.

• Provide access to exclusive deals and discounts that are not always available to the general public. Travel agencies have established relationships with airlines, hotels, and tour operators, which allows them to negotiate better rates and offers. By tapping into their network, you can get the best value for your money, including discounted airfares, hotel stays, and tour packages.
• Helps you in creating customized travel itineraries that fit your budget and preferences. They know the best ways to maximize your travel budget without compromising on the quality of your trip. Travel agents can suggest affordable accommodation options, recommend budget-friendly activities and attractions, and even find cost-effective transportation solutions. With their knowledge and experience, they can help you plan a memorable vacation that won’t break the bank.
• Planning a vacation can be time-consuming, especially if you’re not familiar with the destination. Travel agencies take care of all the research, bookings, and logistics for you. They know the most efficient routes, best times to travel, and insider tips to save time and money. By leaving the planning to the professionals, you can focus on enjoying your trip without the stress of coordinating every detail.
• Hidden costs can quickly add up and turn a budget-friendly vacation into a financial burden. Travel agencies have the expertise to spot potential pitfalls and hidden fees that might not be obvious to the average traveler. They can help you navigate through complex airline fare rules, cancellation policies, and other fine print that could impact your overall expenses. By avoiding these traps, you can stay on track with your budget and avoid unpleasant surprises.
• Offer you various travel insurance options tailored to your specific needs. While some travelers might be tempted to skip insurance to save money, it’s essential to have adequate coverage in case of unexpected emergencies, such as trip cancellations, medical emergencies, or lost baggage. Travel agencies can help you find cost-effective insurance plans that provide the necessary coverage without breaking the bank.

Now that you know the advantages, let’s explore the top travel agencies in Dubai that stand out for their exceptional services:

Top Travel Agencies In Dubai:

1.dnata travels.

Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Tel: +971 4 3166666 800-36282 Fax: +971 4 3166144

2. Musafir.Com

Talk to the Travel Experts UAE 600 544 405

3. Rayna Tours

Phone: +971-4-208-7444

4. Green Apple Travel & Tourism

email: info(@)greenappletravel(dot)ae

phone: +971 4 370 5995

address: Office 408, Nasser Lootah Building, Consulate Area – Dubai, UAE

5. Al Tayer Travel Agency

Phone: + 971 04 2055000 + 971 04 2954678

address: Atrium Building, Garhoud, Near GGICO Metro station, P.O. Box 2623, Dubai ,United Arab Emirates

email: [email protected]

6. Sharaf Travel

Whatsapp now or Call +97143976161

7. City One Tourism & Travel

Phone: +971 4 392 2959, +971 4 252 5516

8. Regal Tours

Mobile / WhatsApp:   +971 50 8474 794 Office Landline: +971 4 2635 888 Toll Free:   800123 321 (UAE)

Email: [email protected]  

9. UTravel Agency:

Phone:  +971-4-447-4047

10. Seaman Tours:

Phone: +971-4-238-1777 | +971-56-271-0885

11. H.I.S. Travel & Tourism:

H.I.S. Travels is a well-known travel agency with over 556 branches worldwide. Offers luxury tours and holiday packages worldwide, as well as Japan Rail passes for traveling in Japan.

12. Adrenaline Travel:

Phone: +971 4 234 6850

emal: [email protected]

13. Uranus Travel and Tours:

14. pluto travel, 15. pinoy tourism and travels.

Phone: +971 4 340 2320, +971 4 295 9000

Tips to Select a Right Travel Agency for your Trip/Vacation:

Choosing a good travel agency for your trip is important to have a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some simple tips to help you find the right one:

• Check what other people say about the travel agency. If they have good reviews and happy customers, it’s a good sign.
• Make sure the travel agency is certified and has proper licenses. This shows they are trustworthy and follow industry standards.
• Some agencies focus on certain types of trips, like luxury vacations or adventure tours. Pick one that suits your preferences.
• Find out what services they offer. A good agency should handle everything from flights to hotels and even visas.
• Reach out to them with questions. If they are helpful and quick to respond, it’s a good sign.
• Check the prices of different agencies, but also consider what they include in the package. Sometimes, a slightly higher price can offer better value.
• Ask friends or family if they have used a travel agency and if they recommend it.
• If you prefer booking online, make sure their website is easy to use and secure for online bookings.
• Always read the terms and conditions of the agency to understand their cancellation and refund policies.
• If you feel comfortable with the agency and like their approach, go with your instincts.

By keeping these tips in mind, you can find a reliable travel agency that will take care of your trip and make it a memorable one. Happy travels!

Travel agencies can vary in terms of services and pricing, so it’s essential to research and choose one that best meets your travel needs and preferences. Customer reviews can provide valuable insights into the quality of service provided by these agencies.

So, whether you’re yearning for a thrilling adventure or a peaceful escape, leave it to the experts and let these top travel agencies in Dubai create the vacation of your dreams. Bon voyage!

Frequently Asked Questions on Travel Agencies in Dubai, UAE

What services does a travel agency in dubai provide.

Travel agencies in Dubai offer a range of services, including flight bookings, hotel reservations, visa processing, travel insurance, tour packages, and assistance with planning itineraries for various destinations.

How can I find a reliable travel agency in Dubai? 

To find a reliable travel agency in Dubai, you can read online reviews, ask for recommendations from friends or family, check their accreditation and certifications, and assess their level of expertise and specialization

Are travel agencies in Dubai expensive to use?

The cost of using a travel agency in Dubai can vary depending on the services you require and the agency itself. Some agencies may charge a fee for their services, while others may earn commissions from the suppliers they work with.

 Can a travel agency in Dubai help with visa processing?

Yes, many travel agencies in Dubai offer visa processing services for various countries by helping you in obtaining the necessary documents and guide you through the visa application process.

Do travel agencies in Dubai offer group tour packages? 

Yes, many travel agencies in Dubai offer group tour packages to various destinations which an be a cost-effective and convenient.

Can a travel agency in Dubai help with last-minute bookings?

Yes, some travel agencies in Dubai specialize in last-minute bookings and can assist you in finding available flights, hotels, and tours even on short notice.

Can a travel agency in Dubai help with travel insurance? 

Yes, travel agencies in Dubai can help you obtain travel insurance that suits your needs by providing information about different insurance options and assist you in purchasing the right coverage for your trip.

Can a travel agency in Dubai assist with customized itineraries?

Yes, many travel agencies in Dubai can create customized itineraries tailored to your preferences and budget.

How do you cancel or make changes to your travel plans booked through a travel agency in Dubai?

To cancel or make changes to your travel plans, you will need to contact the travel agency directly. They will guide you through the cancellation or amendment process and inform you about any associated fees or policies.

Human Resource professional and writer.

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Traveling to Dubai for the First Time (2024): 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Traveling to Dubai (United Arab Emirates) for the first time  and not sure where to start? Indeed, planning a trip to Dubai might be overwhelming, even more so if this is your first time in this rapidly growing and continuously changing city!

When is the best time to visit? How much time do you need in Dubai? What are the best areas to stay in and how to travel around? Do you need to pre-book tickets or can you just go with the flow? How to save time and money and still see the best that Dubai has to offer?

Dubai is a city of contrasts, a place where modern extravagance and traditional values go hand in hand. From its towering skyscrapers to its pristine beaches and bustling souks, visiting Dubai is like stepping into a different world…

To help you plan your first trip to this dynamic and unique city, in this guide we share some of our top travel tips for visiting Dubai .

We have visited Dubai several times and all the information and tips in this article are based on our personal experience. Some of these tricks we only learned after several trips…

This practical guide includes all the info I wish we had known before planning a trip to Dubai. These tips will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your visit, time, and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Dubai:

• Burj Khalifa (book in advance + opt for the level 148 ticket for priority access).
• Desert Safari.
• Museum of the Future (book well in advance!).
• Luxury Yacht Tour .
• Abu Dhabi Day Trip .

Here are our top travel tips for visiting Dubai:

1. Avoid Traveling in Summer

Dubai is known for its scorching temperatures, especially during the summer months. To give you an idea, average daytime temperatures during June, July, and August are well over 40°C (104°F). Even in April or November, Dubai temperatures usually still exceed 30°C (86°F).

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months – between December and February. The daytime temperatures at this time of the year are usually around 25°C (77°F). So it’s still warm enough to enjoy beaches, pools, and waterparks, but the temperatures are also pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Good to know: Winter is also the peak tourist season in Dubai. So expect accommodation prices to be higher and more crowds at the main attractions. However, with some advance planning and preparation, you can still have a very enjoyable visit, more than in the summer.

The shoulder season – the months of March-April or October-November – can be a good time to visit Dubai as well. If you don’t mind temperatures of around 30-35°C (86-95°F), you can take advantage of somewhat lower prices and fewer crowds than in the winter.

In addition, you may want to check when Ramadan is. During this month, most Muslims do not eat from sunrise to sunset, so many restaurants will be closed during the day. This may might impact your experience, depending on the places you visit.

TIP: No matter when you visit Dubai, be prepared for the heat by wearing lightweight, breathable clothing, using sun protection, and staying hydrated. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat.

READ ALSO: What It’s Like to Visit Dubai in February

2. Book Attraction Tickets in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning a trip to Dubai is not to plan/book attraction tickets in advance.

Booking in advance means more time slots to choose from, better prices, and less time wasted queuing.  After all, you want to make the most of your trip to Dubai and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Good to know: Tickets to many popular attractions in Dubai are often sold out at least a few days in advance. Furthermore, many tickets are cheaper if booked online. In addition, some attraction tickets, e.g. Atlantis Aquaventure , cost less if you book at least a week before your visit.

For some places, not reserving in advance means that you won’t be able to visit at all.  For example, the Museum of the Future is so popular that all tickets are usually sold out at least 2-3 weeks upfront. If you want to be able to choose the time slot that fits you best, you need to book at least a month in advance.

If you want to visit observation decks at Burj Khalifa or Dubai Frame , you also need to book ahead. In most cases, a few days in advance is sufficient, but it really depends on the period when you travel and how flexible you are. Also, consider visiting these attractions early in the morning or late in the evening for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities.

PRO TIP: For Burj Khalifa, we recommend getting a ticket that includes Level 148 . Not only you get to visit another level which is not included with standard tickets, but you also get skip-the-line access through the security check and at the elevators, and it includes some snacks and drinks. It’s well worth it.

Overall, we always recommend booking tickets and tours at least a month before your trip. But keep in mind that for many popular destinations worldwide booking a month or even two upfront is not sufficient anymore.

Tickets don’t get cheaper and there’s less availability the longer you wait. Plus, if you use GetYourG u ide for all attraction tickets and tours like we do, you can take advantage of their very flexible cancelation policy.

Good to know: Booking tickets/tours via websites like GetYourGuide , Viator , or Tiqets also saves you money on exchange rates. The exchange rate they use is the official rate and transactions are in your currency. Whereas if you pay on the spot, it will usually cost you quite a lot more (not only because many tickets are more expensive at the counter, but also because of credit card fees, exchange rate deviations, etc.).

Plus, booking and paying ahead makes it easier to budget for your vacation and keep your credit card’s spending limit available for other expenses during your trip.

READ ALSO: Top Places to See & Things to Do in Dubai

3. Foresee Enough Time & Plan Wisely

There is one thing that you may not realize as a first-time visitor to Dubai and that’s how huge the city is. It’s not a place that you can compare to cities like Rome or London , or even New York City where you can still walk between many attractions and see a lot in a short time…

Dubai is totally different! It’s big, not really walkable (except in some areas), and the attractions are spread out all over the enormous and ever-growing city.

Plus, road works and traffic jams turn every ride into an expedition. The same trip that takes 20 minutes at night or early in the morning can take you an hour or even longer during the day. And yes, public transport can be a good option, but it also has its limitations – more about it further below.

Good to know: When planning your sightseeing itinerary, you will see that most Dubai attractions work with timed entry slots. Be sure to foresee plenty of extra time everywhere though! Even with timed entry tickets, you will often be standing in line for an hour or even longer, not to mention the time that it takes to actually visit the place or get from one attraction to the other.

TIP: So while planning what to see and do, foresee enough extra time between the sights and don’t try to do too much in a single day. Also, group the attractions based on their location, and go for a mix of top attractions with some lesser-known ones. That way, you don’t have to rush from one queue to another and your trip will be much more relaxed.

This brings us to the next tip – see below.

4. Don’t Try to See Everything

There is so much to see and do in Dubai that you could easily stay here for a few months and still not experience everything the area has to offer. So resist FOMO and the urge of having to see ‘everything’. It’s simply impossible, especially if you are only traveling to Dubai for just a few days or a week.

TIP: Choose a few places, attractions, and experiences that interest you the most and focus on those rather than ticking off boxes just because some guidebook told you that one or the other place is ‘a must’.

If you absolutely want to go to the top of Burj Khalifa, well – just do it and tick it off your bucket list. After all, how often will you get a chance to visit the world’s tallest building… In that case, book tickets in advance and be prepared to queue, or save time and avoid the crowds with priority access .

On the other hand, maybe you are perfectly content just seeing the building from the outside and rather spend your time visiting other viewing platforms like Sky Views , the View at The Palm , or Dubai Frame …

Or maybe you don’t care about any of these at all and much rather spend a day at a water park , exploring the old town souks (markets), or enjoying the views from a luxury yacht …

Dubai has so much to offer to all types of travelers. So personalize your itinerary based on what you really want to do, taking into account the time that you have, your interests, and your budget. If you are visiting Dubai with the family, try to incorporate some fun activities for the kids in your itinerary as well, even if it means that you’ll have less time for sightseeing.

READ ALSO: Dubai Itinerary (detailed guide for a week in Dubai)

5. Consider Tours & Private Drivers

If you want to see a lot of Dubai in a short time or you don’t know where to even start deciding where to go, consider booking tours or private guides/drivers .

Sometimes, a private driver can also be cheaper than taking a taxi between all those places, and often, you can also find cars that can take up to 6 passengers (vs 4 in most taxis).

Just to be clear, I am talking about quickly seeing multiple places all over the city in a single day. If you want to spend more time exploring the sites, you better go on your own.

There are tons of different ‘city highlights’ tours that bring you to many of the main landmarks of Dubai in (half) a day. Keep in mind that in most cases, your ‘visit’ will be just a quick photo stop, so it’s not comparable to actually visiting the sights. But it’s a good way to get an introduction to Dubai and catch a glimpse of the top spots.

PRO TIP: If you do a city highlights tour, do it at the beginning of your trip! That way, you can later come back to some of the places that you like the most. An ideal way to explore Dubai is to take an introductory city tour first as you arrive and then thoroughly visiting some of the main landmarks and attractions on your own later.

Abu Dhabi day trip tip: One of the best guided tours we recently did in Dubai was this highly-rated tour. If you want to see the top sights of Abu Dhabi in a day, this tour has by far the best itinerary (I compared many tours before we chose this one and it didn’t disappoint).

READ ALSO: Best Abu Dhabi Tours from Dubai (+Review of the Tour We Chose)

6. Save Time & Money with Combination Tickets

Dubai is expensive, there is no arguing about it. But with some smart planning, you can save some money on some of the main attractions.

One of the best ways to do this is by opting for combination tickets and/or city cards that include several popular places.

Here are some of the most popular deals:

• Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium (+-$20 savings per person).
• Atlantis Aquaventure + Lost Chambers Aquarium (+-$25-30 savings per person).
• GoCity Explorer Pass (up to 50% savings, depending on the attractions you visit).

Good to know: Some tickets cost more during the most popular times. For example, Burj Khalifa around sunset. So if you want to save money, be sure to check prices for different time slots/days when making reservations.

7. Stay Longer

You might be wondering how much time you need to see the best of Dubai. Well, there is really no straightforward answer to this and so much depends on your interests.

That being said, I recommend planning at least a week for a first visit to Dubai. But if you have time and your budget allows it, stay longer. You won’t get bored!

With a week in Dubai, you will be able to visit most of the top landmarks, explore several different parts of the city, and also find some time to relax and unwind. If you want to spend more time at the beach or by the pool, visit a water park or a theme park with your kids, or make a day trip to Abu Dhabi, ideally, you plan at least 10-12 days for Dubai.

But don’t worry if your trip is shorter and you can’t extend it. You can have a perfectly enjoyable visit and see a lot even if you only have a day or two in Dubai. Via the link below, you can find plenty of ideas for planning a shorter visit.

LEARN MORE: Dubai Stopover: How to See The Best of Dubai in 1-2 Days

8. Choose the Location of Your Hotel Wisely

Deciding where to stay in Dubai might not be as straightforward as you may think, especially if the main purpose of your visit is to explore the city.

There is not one perfect place to stay in Dubai – it’s simply much too big and too spread out for that.

However, some areas are better than others and some are really a disaster for commute. If you pick the wrong location, you might be stuck in traffic for hours every time you want to go anywhere and do some sightseeing. On the other hand, that same spot might be perfect for those who are mainly interested in swimming and dining, and are just looking for a relaxing vacation with maybe one or two excursions that include a pick-up and drop-off at the hotel…

TIP: I strongly recommend that you look at the map and the location of the places that you want to visit before deciding where to stay in Dubai. Also, consider how you will travel around.

For example, staying within walking distance of a metro station might save you a lot of time and money on commuting if you plan to do lots of sightseeing. Whereas staying in a nice walkable area with lots of shops and restaurants will be ideal if you like to go out at night.

Here are two of the very best areas to stay in Dubai:

• Dubai Downtown (the area around Dubai Mall – Burj Khalifa) is very central and is perfect for those who want to do a lot of sightseeing, but also for shopping and dining. Sofitel Dubai Downtown is a great choice in this area, close to Dubai Mall and just near a metro station. Remember, however, that this is the heart of the city, so very busy and far from the sea.
• Dubai Marina in the south of the city is another popular area to stay in Dubai. It’s a great choice for those who are looking for a more relaxing vacation, boat trips, water parks, dining, shopping, etc. The beach is not too far from here, however, it will take at least 45-60 minutes to reach the city center. Millennium Place is a very popular hotel not too far from the main Marina area and close to the metro. On a somewhat higher budget, JW Marriott Hotel Marina is a wonderful choice if you want to be in the heart of the Marina.

TIP: On our most recent visit to Dubai, we stayed at Rove La Mer Beach Hotel . It’s close to the downtown area, so quite convenient for sightseeing, but also with direct access to a private beach – the best of both worlds. We loved this hip modern hotel, also because it’s much smaller and more intimate – a kind of place where you don’t have to worry about losing your kids at breakfast. It also offers great price/quality for Dubai. The only downside is that the area around the hotel is still developing with lots of construction going on, but it will only get more attractive in the future.

9. Beware of Tourism Taxes

Hotel stays (including hotel apartments, guesthouses, holiday homes, etc.) in the United Arab Emirates are taxed with various fees, surcharges, and taxes. These amounts might vary depending on the hotel, but it’s not abnormal that these taxes add over 20-25% to your room rate.

For example, our recent hotel invoice in Dubai showed a 10% service charge, 7% municipality fees, 5 % VAT, and an additional 10 AED (+-$3) Tourism Dirham Fee per night.

Altogether, we paid about 24,4% on top of the official room rate. The good thing is that we knew in advance how much we had to pay. Otherwise, this could be a very unpleasant surprise…

So when looking for accommodation in Dubai and comparing prices, make sure that you are actually comparing the same thing!

Many hotel websites show prices without (some/any) taxes, so you may think that booking directly with them is cheaper. Often, it’s not the case at all!

TIP: We always use Booking.com for our accommodation bookings, also in Dubai. With them, you see the total price, including all fees and taxes, so you know exactly how much you will spend. (Depending on booking conditions, you may have to prepay for the stay in advance whereas the taxes are charged separately when you arrive at the hotel, but the total amount you see when making a reservation is correct).

10. Use Public Transport & Local Taxis

Dubai’s public transport system is efficient and inexpensive. Depending on where you are staying and traveling to, it might be very convenient to use the Dubai Metro, Tram, Monorail, or even local buses.

However, this depends on the exact trip you are planning to make and also on the size of your group. Sometimes, public transport is the best way to get around the city quickly and affordably. But there are also many situations when it’s a real hassle and doesn’t make your trip faster or much cheaper.

In those cases, you will be glad to know that taxis are rather affordable in Dubai . The most expensive taxi ride we recently took in Dubai was 25 kilometers, it took over 50 minutes, and it cost us 76 AED (+-$21).

However, be careful that you only use official taxis! Because e.g. Uber is often quite a lot more expensive. Not even to mention that they sometimes charge twice the price during peak times of increased demand. We learned this the hard way, after taking a few overpriced Uber rides…

Also, unlike in many other countries where we use Uber all the time, in Dubai, you never really know how much you will pay until the end of the ride. The price you see in the beginning is usually just an approximate indication.

TIP: Install Careem app on your smartphone and use it to request ‘Hala Taxi’. That’s the best way to get an official taxi in Dubai. If you request ‘Rides’, it works similar as Uber and is more expensive. We learned this from a local taxi driver after a few very unpleasant experiences with Uber and private drivers randomly offering their services at the main tourist spots, and it saved us a fortune.

To give you an idea, we were quoted 120 AED ($33) by Uber and 150 AED ($40) by random ‘kind strangers’ for a ride that in the end cost us 22 AED ($6) by official taxi. When it comes to busy times and popular tourist hotspots, getting a taxi ride in Dubai can feel like navigating the Wild West…

LEARN MORE: Tourist Guide to Dubai Public Transport

11. Start Your Days Early

One of the best ways to make the most out of your trip to Dubai is to start your days early.

There’s much less traffic in the morning, so you can get everywhere much quicker. But the main advantage is that there are hardly any other people, even at the most popular attractions. In addition – if you are visiting Dubai in the warmest months – getting up early is the best way to avoid the biggest heat.

Good to know: Be sure to check opening times of the places you want to visit. While some attractions don’t open until noon, many others are open from 9-10 AM. There are also places – like e.g. Burj Khalifa – that you can visit at 7 AM, and on some days even earlier if you like…

For example, we recently went to the Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis around opening time. There were no lines at the entrance and we could also do many popular slides without any wait. A few hours later, people were queuing for 45-60 minutes at the same rides…

In addition, the taxi ride to get there in the morning took us just 22 minutes. That same ride to get back to our hotel in the evening was over 50 minutes, not counting more than 10 minutes for a taxi to arrive… So yes, it really pays to explore Dubai in the morning!

READ ALSO: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

12. Stay Connected

While pretty much all public places and tourist attractions in Dubai offer free Wi-Fi, we highly recommend getting a local SIM card for your visit to UAE. There are so many situations when it’s just much easier to stay connected. For example, if you need to book a taxi ride, or book some tickets on the go, etc.

Depending on your data plan, roaming can cost a fortune in Dubai. My provider sent me an sms saying that using data in UAE will cost me 15 euros per megabyte (ouch! and no, thank you!). So the first thing I did after landing in Dubai was disconnect roaming.

There are several ways to approach this:

• Pocket Wi-Fi. One of the easiest ways to stay connected on the go is by renting a pocket WiFi at Dubai airport . This is a very convenient option if you don’t want to change anything on your phone. It’s also convenient if you are traveling with a family/friends since you can connect up to 10 devices to it.
• Local SIM card. Alternatively, you can opt opt for a physical SIM card, which is also available at the airport . With this option, you will need to place this card into your phone. If you want to keep your ‘own’ phone number working as well, see if your phone has a dual SIM option – then you can use both. Otherwise, you may want to bring an old phone to use with this local card.
• eSIM. There are many providers available (just search online), but what’s included and the prices vary a lot. Depending on which one you choose and also on your device, this can be a very easy and simple process, but it’s also not very straightforward if you have never done it before. Also, not all phones allow eSIM – so be sure to double-check if your smartphone has this capability.

13. Respect Local Culture

While Dubai is a very cosmopolitan city, it’s also a place with different cultural norms and traditions. Overall, UAE is very ‘Western’ and Dubai in particular is very laid back and relaxed. With over 200 nationalities living in Dubai, it’s a true melting pot of different cultures. Still, remember that you are a visitor here, and be respectful.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places. Also, avoid public displays of affection, as these can be considered disrespectful.

If you’re visiting during Ramadan, be mindful of local customs and traditions. Keep in mind that many traditional restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day but will come to life after sunset. If you are visiting during Ramadan and are planning sightseeing during the day or a day trip to e.g. Abu Dhabi, it’s advisable to pack your own lunch.

One of the most common questions we get is what to wear when traveling to Dubai. Well, you will see people wearing all kinds of clothing – from burkas that cover the entire body to revealing summer clothes that hardly cover much at all. However, while a lot is tolerated, it’s not always appreciated.

So when in doubt, remember that it’s always safer to cover your knees and shoulders. See-through clothing is also not the best idea, unless on a beach.

TIP: Wear loose light clothes – not as much for religious or cultural reasons, but also because of the heat. Long skirts/dresses or wide summer pants will be much more comfortable than tight clothes.

LEARN MORE: What to Wear in Dubai

14. Use Credit Cards

The official currency in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) and all the prices are displayed in this currency. All regular businesses accept cash and electronic means of payment, such as credit cards or smartphone payments.

We haven’t encountered a single place in Dubai that wouldn’t accept a credit card. So if you want to make it easy and simple for yourself, you don’t even need to exchange money and can simply use cards everywhere.

Important! Inform your bank about your visit so that they don’t block your cards for ‘suspicious activity’. And even then… Despite precautions, one of my cards got blocked by a credit card company after a random payment at a restaurant in one of the main malls in Dubai. We had to call the bank to get them to unblock it again and they say that this happens when ‘the systems’ suspect anything suspicious, despite us having notified our bank in advance…

If you want to leave a tip to someone or purchase something small, you may want to have some local currency at hand. In that case, you can get some cash from local ATMs which you will find in malls all over the city. I strongly encourage you to only use ATMs attached to local bank offices as some others might charge additional fees and/or give the worst exchange rates.

PRO TIP: When using ATMs to withdraw money or paying by card, you always get an option between local currency (AED) and your own currency. Always choose local currency (AED) – that way, your bank will do the exchange and you will always get a better rate than the one offered by ATMs or pay terminals.

Good to know: We heard it on quite a few occasions that money is king in Dubai and it doesn’t matter in which currency you want to pay – they will accept it. Indeed, this is the case at the markets (souks) and some smaller private businesses. On a recent trip to Dubai, I could use Euros at the souk. The sellers also told us that they accept credit cards (just make sure to haggle – see below).

15. Shop Smart

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, but prices can vary a lot depending on where you shop. The prestigious locations like the Dubai Mall are home to some of the most expensive brands in the world and the prices here are usually very high. You will be able to find much better deals at the Dubai Outlet Mall, for example.

Also, if you go to various local markets (souks), be sure to shop around for better deals. Also, don’t forget to haggle – and not a little! Many sellers take advantage of tourists asking ridiculously high prices. Often, 3-4 times higher than what you should pay, and likely even more… Don’t be shy, offer the price that seems correct to you, and be prepared to walk away.

On a recent trip, I got intrigued by a perfume someone put on me while walking through the Dubai Spice Souk (this is common practice – people will (try to) put all kinds of stuff on you – from scarfs to perfumes etc.). So I asked how much it was. The prices depend on the size and the design of the bottle, they said, and so we settled on a medium-sized simple bottle and they told me it was 280 AED (+- 70 euros).

No way I would pay 70 euros for a tiny bottle of perfume at a market! And so we started the negotiations. In the end, I paid 20 euros in cash which – to me – felt like a correct price. The seller was telling me that this was way too low and he was only willing to do it because it was our last day in Dubai and my kids were cute… 😉

After that, I saw similar perfumes at Dubai Airport souvenir store and indeed, most of them were about 20-25 euros for about the same size I got. So don’t be afraid to negotiate and if you don’t feel comfortable with the price or the quality, simply walk away.

16. Explore Beyond the Glitz

While Dubai is best known for its skyscrapers and extravagant landmarks, don’t miss out on its cultural gems as well.

One of the best places to catch a glimpse of authentic culture is Old Dubai. Visit the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, explore the spice and gold souks, and take a traditional abra ride along Dubai Creek. These experiences are also quite touristy, but they are also totally different from the main attractions in Dubai.

TIP: There are many excellent guided tours that visit Old Dubai . They all take you to the same area, do the traditional boat ride on Dubai Creek, and visit the same local markets. Most tours also include local coffee and dades, and some also food tasting. While you can just visit the area on your own, these tours are really affordable and give you a somewhat deeper insight and insider tips.

On our recent visit, we chose this walking/food tour . It started with some traditional food tasting at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the old town, a boat ride, and ended at the gold and spice souks. A nice way to spend a few hours and get to know a different side of the city.

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Dubai

17. Avoid Weekends

If you think Dubai is busy on a weekday, try to imagine it on a weekend or on public holidays.

So if you can adjust your plans, avoid visiting the most popular attractions on weekends (Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday).

If you are in Dubai for more than a few days, this is really not difficult to do. Visit the most popular places such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Global Village , Miracle Garden , or theme parks and water parks on weekdays.

On weekends, you can do more relaxing activities such as a sightseeing a yacht trip , a speedboat tour , spend time at the beach or by the pool, go parasailing or jetskiing , or take a desert tour – see below.

18. Experience the Desert

No trip to Dubai would be complete without experiencing its desert. Book a desert safari tour for an adrenaline-pumping ride over the dunes, followed by a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. It’s an unforgettable experience!

There are many desert tour options , but when you look closely, they are very similar in what they offer. Depending on the option you book, you have one main activity – usually, dune bashing in a jeep, quad, or camel ride. Afterward, you spend time in a desert camp where you can partake in all kinds of different experiences.

Some of these experiences include taking pictures with falcons and camels, sandboarding, various shows (traditional dance, belly dance, fire show), henna tattoos, etc. There is always lots of local food and it’s surprisingly good.

Our experience: We have done two desert tours in Dubai (on different trips) and they were both very similar and both excellent. The first time we went on this dune safari tour and on a recent trip, we opted for this highly-rated tour that includes a longer camel ride . In both cases, the second part of the tour was quite similar, the main difference was that the first tour included an exhilarating jeep ride through the dunes, and the second one – a 45-minute camel ride.

The whole family really enjoyed these tours and I couldn’t say which one is better. All I can tell you is that it’s a nice experience that will make your trip to Dubai even more memorable.

19. Don’t Forget Little Important Details

Here are some additional travel tips for Dubai:

• Bring a reusable water bottle. Dubai is so warm and dry that you will want to carry a bottle of water on you at all times. If you want to minimize plastic waste, you may want to bring your own reusable water bottle. Tap water is, in general, safe to drink. In addition, you will also see free water taps at some public areas, where you can refill your bottles.
• Pack a travel adapter. UAE uses  Type G  plugs, same as in the UK. However, we noticed that in most hotels you can also simply use European plugs and sometimes a simple USB cable. Still, we always pack a Type G adapter just to be safe.
• Bring a power bank to charge your phone on the go. Also, carry extra batteries for your camera.
• Know that you are not obliged to tip, but it’s also appreciated. Many people tip 10-15% at the restaurants or give a small tip to tour guides. If you like to tip, make sure you have some small bills of local currency.
• Bring a small crossbody bag for sightseeing. At some landmarks, you will be asked to leave bigger bags/backpacks in a locker. I like Hedgren crossbody bags for travel – they are light, sturdy, and very durable. The one I have is big enough to hold my camera, a power bank, documents, and even two water bottles, and I was never asked to use a locker. But pack the smallest backpack and you’ll often have to leave it behind…
• Don’t forget sun protection. A sun hat, sunscreen lotion, and sunglasses are a must when visiting Dubai!

So, these are some of the most useful travel tips for Dubai that you may want to know when traveling to this fascinating city for the first time. I hope that this helps you make the most of your visit.

Have a great trip!

Before you go, you may want to learn a bit more about Dubai with some surprising and interesting facts that will leave you fascinated and eager to explore more. Check it out: Fun & Interesting Facts About Dubai .

More tips for visiting Dubai:

• Budget:  How Expensive is Dubai
• Getting around:  Public Transport in Dubai
• With kids:  Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• Fun to do:  Best Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai

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Friday 23rd of February 2024

Thanks for the article. It is very informative.

Glad to help. Have a great time in Dubai!

Best Travel Agencies in Dubai: dnata, Musafir, Rayna & More

Having somebody to plan your entire trip including flights, transfers, stays, and attractions is a great advantage. Whether you are a seasoned globetrotter or a newcomer to the world of travel, travel agencies can make your trips easier by meticulously planning things for you. Dubai is home to many travel agencies that offer top-notch travel packages to popular tourist destinations and hidden gems that are waiting to be explored. Be it international destinations or local attractions, you can trust them with the perfect itinerary.

Are you on the lookout for the next thrilling adventure? Here are the best travel agencies in Dubai that you can consider for your next trip.

dnata Travel

dnata Travel is a prominent travel agency and tour operator headquartered in Dubai. It is a part of the Emirates Group. With over 60 years of experience, they provide a comprehensive range of travel services encompassing flight bookings for domestic and international travel, hotel reservations spanning budget to luxury options worldwide, personalized holiday packages, cruise vacations, travel insurance offerings, and more. Their team of local travel experts offers valuable advice and insights for travel within the UAE and beyond. dnata Travel's presence extends to multiple countries including Saudi Arabia, Oman, Bahrain, Iraq, and India.

Visit their website to book your next holiday adventure.

Location : Dubai Hills Mall, Mirdif City Centre, Nakheel Mall, Al Barsha Mall, dnata Travel Centre, Motor City, Mall of the Emirates, Deira City Centre, EGTC Counters, Dubai Mall, Mercato Mall, New EGHQ, and others

Contact : 800 36282, [email protected]

Musafir.com

Musafir.com is a leading online travel agency in the UAE. Founded in 2007, Musafir.com has proudly served over a million customers through its website and branch network. Initially focused on leisure travel, it expanded to include business travel in 2017. They offer an extensive range of services including bookings for flights to over 3,000 destinations worldwide, reservations at more than 1 million global properties, holiday packages, and various travel-related services such as UAE tourist visa assistance, international tourist visa support, and more.

Visit their website to check out their tailor-made tour packages.

Location : Deira, Dubai International Financial Centre, Al Quoz Industrial Area 4

Contact : 600 544 405

Rayna Tours

Rayna Tours is a leading destination management company in the UAE. Established in 2006, this tour company has swiftly risen to meet the growing demand for affordable and exceptional travel services in the region. As a comprehensive travel solution provider serving both B2B and B2C clientele, Rayna Tours and Travels offers an extensive portfolio encompassing various travel products and services. They provide an array of tours, safaris, cruises, and all-inclusive vacations, spanning iconic and lesser-known destinations. Their user-friendly online platform facilitates easy price comparison, seamless holiday planning, and streamlined booking management including amendments and cancellations, all under one digital roof.

Visit their website to check out the trending tour packages from Dubai.

Location : Deira

Contact : +97142087444

Al Tayer Holidays

Al Tayer Holidays is a well-established travel agency in Dubai. Founded in 1979, Al Tayer Holidays offers a comprehensive array of leisure products and services. Their offerings encompass worldwide hotel reservations, suitable for both corporate and holiday travelers, as well as global car rental and chauffeured limousine services for convenient transportation options. They also specialize in cruise bookings and fly-cruise vacation packages, allowing travelers to embark on sea-bound adventures. With a dedicated team of knowledgeable and energetic consultants, they possess the expertise and attitude to transform their clients' dream vacations into reality.

Visit their website to see their diverse range of experience in the industry.

Location : Garhoud

Contact : +97142055000, [email protected]

Sharaf Travel

Sharaf Travel is a leading travel agency in Dubai. Established in 1991, they offer a comprehensive range of travel-related services including corporate travel and inbound tourism through Sharaf Tours. They also offer charter tour packages, cruise bookings, train journeys, coach tours, adventure expeditions, honeymoon packages, student travel arrangements, group travel solutions, and services for MICE events. With over two decades of experience in the wholesale travel industry, Sharaf Holidays is renowned for its reputation for delivering the most cost-effective and competitive travel deals. They are equipped to assist with all facets of travel planning, ensuring that they can facilitate a great and budget-friendly travel experience no matter the destination.

Visit their website to check out exciting tour packages to different tourist destinations.

Location : Bur Dubai

Contact : +97143976161

City One Tourism and Travel

City One Tourism and Travel is a prominent destination management company with its headquarters in Dubai. They offer an extensive range of travel programs catering to both corporate and individual travelers. From custom-designed holidays to business travel solutions, this travel agency in Dubai offers top-notch services. The company specializes in managing inbound and outbound tours to and from the United Arab Emirates. They also take great care to tailor each itinerary to the unique requirements and preferences of their clients. You can also choose from a diverse selection of travel packages including stays at luxury resorts and hotels, with the opportunity to enhance holidays through luxurious vacation packages such as Spa and Wellness, Golf, Villas, and more.

Visit their website to learn more about their services.

Location : Business Bay and Dubai Silicon Oasis

Contact : +97143922959, [email protected]

Pluto Travels

Pluto Travels is a pioneering travel management solutions provider in Dubai. Since its inception in 2007, Pluto Travels has consistently met the diverse needs of a broad and satisfied customer base. With an extensive network spanning over 200 airlines and collaborating with more than 10,000 partners worldwide, Pluto Travels ensures not only highly competitive pricing but also an exceptional standard of service for its clientele. They take pride in offering round-the-clock services to accommodate emergency requirements, even beyond regular office hours and during holidays. Their commitment to seamless travel experiences extends to managing booking amendments, ensuring that clients' travel plans remain flexible and hassle-free.

Visit their website to check out the tailor-made tour packages they offer.

Location : Bur Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, and Business Bay

Contact : +971554469397, [email protected]

Regal Tours

Regal Tours is a trusted travel agency in Dubai. Regal Travel Agency has a commendable track record spanning more than a decade assisting individuals in obtaining visit visas to Dubai as well as various other countries worldwide. Their services encompass a wide range of visa categories, including tourist visas, business visas, visa extensions, and visa changes. Even during challenging periods like the COVID-19 pandemic, Regal Tours remained proactive in helping clients including repatriation efforts.

Visit their website to check out their services across the UAE.

Location : Al Qusais

Contact : +971503705507, [email protected]

Tabeer Tours

Tabeer Tours is a renowned travel company with its headquarters in Dubai. With a team of passionate travel experts at the helm, they are popular for their dedication to crafting culturally immersive travel experiences worldwide. Tabeer Tours operates across multiple international locations, including the UK, UAE, and the Philippines, serving a diverse global clientele. Their strategically located offices enable them to provide efficient services, particularly focusing on B2B clients to support their business growth. Tabeer Tours offers a comprehensive range of services including customized itineraries, expert guidance, high-quality accommodations, transportation, and guided tours. Their diverse travel experiences span cultural tours, adventure travel, wildlife safaris, spiritual journeys, and more.

Visit their website to learn more about their tour packages.

Contact : +97143575404, [email protected]

Utravel is a prominent travel agency in Dubai. They have been a leading player in the travel industry for over two decades. Their services are highly adaptable to cater to the most specific requirements of each client. The agency has developed corporate travel policies designed to maximize cost efficiency, and their streamlined processes, refined over decades, encompass quoting, reservation, approvals, and compliance, ensuring maximum time efficiency. They boast dedicated rapid-response account managers to save clients' time, powerful SOS technology for added protection, and meticulous documentation tailored to cost centers, departments, projects, and unique requirements, spanning from quotation to invoice. Utravel has cultivated strong relationships across the travel industry, extending from airlines to charters, chauffeurs, accommodations, and more, to provide their clients with a comprehensive and seamless travel experience.

Visit their website to book your next corporate travel with them.

Location : Jumeirah Lake Towers

Contact : +97144474047, [email protected]

Written by HiDubai Newswire

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Plan a trip to remember with the best travel agencies in Dubai

• Travel Agencies in Dubai
• How to Choose the Right Agency?

Are you an avid traveller who is always looking for a new place to explore? Luckily, there are many travel agencies in Dubai that can help you plan your next adventure! These companies cater to local, domestic and international travel requirements, from business tours to family vacations. We’ve compiled a list of the best tour agents in the city who can help you plan the perfect trip.

List of Top Travel Agencies in Dubai

Here’s a look at the best travel agencies and tourism companies in Dubai. 

Emirates Holiday

The first on our list of travel agencies in Dubai is Emirates Holiday. They offer exclusive offers and holiday packages to fit your needs. Attention to detail is where they shine, from unique hotels to fascinating destinations, they guide you every step of the way so you can make the most of your vacay.

The best part is when you book with them, you get Emirates Skywards rewards.

• Location: Town Centre Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach Road
• Timings: Monday to Sunday, 10:00 am – 09:00 pm
• Contact: 800-4969

dnata Travel

Book a holiday abroad or a staycation nearby via the experts at dnata. It is a top travel agency in Dubai that will take care of everything from airlines and hotels to leisure destinations.

Their representatives are available round-the-clock for your assistance on their UAN (800-36282). With dnata, you can enjoy a holiday abroad or a staycation in the UAE. Besides Business Bay , dnata Dubai offices are also located in Mirdif, Al Barsha, Motor City and several other locations.

• Location: dnata Travel Centre, Ground Floor, Sheikh Zayed Road, Business Bay
• Timings: Monday to Sunday, 09:00 am – 11:00 pm
• Contact: 800-36282

Musafir.com

Musafir, which translates to a traveller in Arabic is an online travel website promising premium destinations and holiday experiences. Musafir banks on its core values of providing choice, convenience and memorable experiences with every tour they manage. It offers affordable getaway packages from Dubai .

Whether you seek a relaxing holiday or a well-planned business trip, let Musafir.com take care of everything from visas to flights and accommodations for you. You can find Musafir offices in DIFC, Al Quoz and Jebel Ali too. 

• Location: DIFC
• Timings : Monday to Saturday, 09:00 am to 06:00 pm | Closed on Sunday
• Contact: 600-544-405

Rayna Tours & Travels

Next on our list of travel companies in Dubai is Rayna Tours. Their prominent services include a comprehensive portfolio of inbound Dubai-centric tours such as quad biking in Dubai or a safari, visa facilitation for multiple countries and signature tours to Singapore and Kuala Lumpur.

Besides that, just like some other travel companies in Dubai, Rayna Tours always has an exciting range of seasonal local tours and excursions up for grabs for everyone. Rayna Tours is one of the best tour management companies in Dubai for those visiting the city for the first time.  They also offer some of the most exciting desert safari tours in Dubai .

• Location: ACICO Business Park Building, Port Saeed Road, Deira
• Timings: 24-Hours
• Contact: +971-4-208-7444

Green Apple Travel & Tourism

Want to skip the tedious visa application processes for your upcoming holidays? Head over to the experts at Green Apple travel company. Located in the vicinity of Umm Hurair , this tour agency in Dubai will get your visas approved to complement their holiday tour packages to various international destinations.

Whether it’s Russia, Belarus, Greece or Azerbaijan – it’s time to start ticking off your bucket list and travel to these stunning destinations. 

• Location: Office 408, Nasser Lootah Building, Consulate Area – Bur Dubai 
• Timings: Monday to Friday, 09:00 am – 06:00 pm | Saturday and Sunday, 09:00 am – 03:00 pm
• Contact: +971-4-370-5995

Al Tayer Travel Agency 

Al Tayer is counted among the most well-established travel agencies in the emirate. Operating in the industry since 1979, this Dubai travel management company specialises in outbound holiday travel.

The leisure services include hassle-free hotel reservations worldwide, cruise bookings, car rental and special interest tours. If a standard tour doesn’t fit your preferences, you can always custom-design your own. 

• Location: Atrium Building, Garhoud, Near GGICO Metro station
• Timings: Monday to Friday, 08:00 am to 06:00 pm
• Contact: +971-4-205-5000

Sharaf Travel

Located in Bur Dubai , Sharaf Travel is your one-stop destination to find a good travel deal, book a flight and a hotel and set off for your intended destination.

Sharaf Travel offers outbound leisure travel, corporate travel, inbound tours and airline booking services for those living in Dubai. Sharaf Travel also has a branch in DIFC .

• Location: Sharaf Travel Building, Khalid Bin Waleed Street – Bur Dubai 
• Timings: Monday to Saturday, 09:00 am to 07:00 pm | Closed on Sundays
• Contact: +971-4-397-6161

City One Tourism & Travel

Whether you’re looking for a custom-designed holiday or facilitation for business travel, City One Tourism has you covered. This affordable travel company in Dubai provides a variety of travel itineraries and services for both amateur and seasoned travellers.

What sets them apart from other travel agents in the city are their best-price quotes, simple booking process and round-the-clock customer support. Their travel packages to Marrakech have a starting price of AED 2,999 per person. Other discounted deals are also available.

• Location: G04, Tamani Arts Offices – Business Bay  | 1904, Palace Towers T1, Dubai Silicon Oasis
• Contact: +971-4-392-2959 |+971-4-252-5516

Regal Tours

If you’re a tourist visiting or planning to visit Dubai, Regal Tours in Al Qusais is a good place to start. This travel agency in Dubai specialises in local Dubai tours and visa services.

An ISO 9001-certified company, Regal Tours prides itself on its professional and multilingual staff that is capable of getting the job done. Be it getting a UAE visa issued on your behalf or bringing you city tours that you just can’t ignore, Regal Tours is reliable and quick to respond.

• Location: Office: 312, 3rd Floor, Bin Fahad Building 4, Damascus Street, Near Dubai Grand Hotel
• Timings: Monday to Saturday, 09:00 am – 08:00 pm | Closed on Sunday
• Contact: +971-4-263-5888 | +971-50-847-4794

Catering to individual and corporate clients, uTravel ensures they deliver nothing but the best in terms of tours and tour facilitation services in Dubai. This travel company in Dubai seamlessly combines the parameters of concierge, consulting and event management with personalised low-price travel packages to guarantee bespoke travel experiences for you.

With travel itineraries to cities like Paris, Phuket, Rome and Kuala Lumpur on their popular panel, you are in for a world of possibilities to explore with uTravel .

• Location: Al Seef Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, JLT 
• Timings: Monday to Friday, 09:00 am – 10:00 pm | Saturday and Sunday, 12:00 pm – 07:00 pm
• Contact: +971-4-447-4047

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT TRAVEL AGENCY IN DUBAI?

Choosing the best travel agency in Dubai is essential for a smooth and enjoyable travel experience. Here are some tips to help you select the right Dubai travel agency:

• Start by researching different travel agencies. Look for reviews and testimonials from other travelers. Online review platforms, social media and travel forums can provide insights into the experiences of previous clients.
• Consider the agency’s experience in the travel industry. A well-established agency with a positive reputation is likely to have more expertise and resources to handle your travel needs effectively.
• Some travel agencies specialise in specific types of travel such as luxury travel, adventure travel or group tours. Choose an agency that aligns with your travel preferences and needs.
• Evaluate the range of services offered by the agency. Ensure they can handle all aspects of your trip, including flights, accommodations, transportation and any specific activities or tours you have in mind.
• Pay attention to the level of customer service provided by the agency. Responsive and helpful communication is crucial, especially when dealing with unexpected issues or changes to your travel plans.
• Look for a travel agency that is transparent about its pricing. Hidden fees and unexpected charges can be frustrating, so make sure you understand the full cost of the services you’re receiving.
• Check if the agency provides travel insurance options or has financial protection measures in place. This can be crucial in case of unforeseen circumstances affecting your trip.

FAQS ABOUT TRAVEL AND TOURISM AGENCIES IN DUBAI

Why should you book your holiday with a travel agent in dubai.

Booking a holiday abroad with a travel agent in Dubai has its merits. They have an array of hotels and resorts and professional guides who can ensure that your journey and stay are picture-perfect. You might get a discounted deal on your package via the agent for the most popular holiday destinations from Dubai compared to booking your own at a hotel.

Can I save money using a travel agent in Dubai?

Yes, there’s a chance you might end up saving big on tickets and hoteling at international destinations as travel agencies have discounts available.

Do travel agents charge a fee?

Yes, travel agents usually charge a nominal fees for their services.

How do I find a reliable travel agent in Dubai?

You can research Dubai travel agencies through online reviews, recommendations, and industry associations. Look for accreditation by relevant organizations and check their reputation for providing excellent customer service.

Can a travel agent help with visa and documentation requirements?

Yes, many travel agents in Dubai assist with visa applications and guidance required for the necessary documentation for your chosen destination.

That’s all we have for this list of travel agencies in Dubai. Apart from these options, you can also check out Al Futtaim Travel, Al Rostamani Travels, Holiday Me, AFC Holidays and more for travel management services in Dubai.

For the most part, each of these travel agents in Dubai offers a mix of standard and customised tour packages in Dubai. The availability and prices for each vary according to seasons, destinations and popular demand. So, it’s always better to check with the best tour operators in Dubai for the latest deals.

If you’ve read this far, you’re definitely someone who loves to explore. So, have you tried the Seawings seaplane tours in Dubai yet? Or if the sea is not your calling, maybe the Atlantis helicopter tours would bring you the much-needed thrill! Either way, you’re guaranteed plenty of excitement. 

If you visiting the emirate for the first time, these apps for tourists in Dubai will surely come in handy. We’ve also got a list of do’s and don’ts in Dubai to make your trip hassle-free.

And while we’re talking about tours and travel and tourism companies in Dubai, UAE, maybe you’d like to check out the best yacht rental companies in Dubai for your next mini-vacation. Enjoy!

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EXPLORE.,DREAM.,DISCOVER. /*! elementor - v3.7.4 - 31-08-2022 */ .elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-stacked .elementor-drop-cap{background-color:#818a91;color:#fff}.elementor-widget-text-editor.elementor-drop-cap-view-framed .elementor-drop-cap{color:#818a91;border:3px solid;background-color:transparent}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap{margin-top:8px}.elementor-widget-text-editor:not(.elementor-drop-cap-view-default) .elementor-drop-cap-letter{width:1em;height:1em}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap{float:left;text-align:center;line-height:1;font-size:50px}.elementor-widget-text-editor .elementor-drop-cap-letter{display:inline-block} The Best Travel Agency  in Dubai for All Your Travel Needs UAE Visa Assistance

Global visa assistance, cruise yacht, city tour dubai.

Our commitment to providing the best Dubai tour packages ensures that your dream vacation is not only within reach but also a smart investment. Enjoy luxurious accommodations, thrilling activities, and cherished memories without compromising your finances.

Stress-Free Planning, Hassle-Free Journey

Recognized as the top travel agency in Dubai, you can entrust us with your entire travel itinerary, leaving behind the hassles of trip planning. From booking flights and securing accommodations to travel insurance and holiday packages from Dubai, we’ve got it all covered. 

Tailored Experiences with a Personal Touch

No two travelers are alike, and neither should their vacations be. At Leader’s Holidayz, we believe in tailoring your trip to your unique preferences. Whether you’re chasing romance, family fun, or solo exploration, our tour packages from Dubai are tailored just to your desires and preferences.

Your Guides to the Extraordinary

Count on the Leaders Holidayz team to transform your vacation dreams into reality. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff boasts years of experience and a genuine passion for travel. With their insights, recommendations, and travel expertise, you’ll navigate every destination like a seasoned explorer.

Master Your Time, Maximize Your Memories

Time is the most precious currency on your vacation. At Leaders Holidayz, we craft itineraries designed to make every moment count. You’ll effortlessly transition between activities, enjoy efficient transportation, and savor well-paced schedules that ensure your holiday is truly unforgettable.

Travel with Confidence: Our Services Ensure Peace of Mind

Your premier full-service tour and travel agency dubai, dedicated to making your travel dreams a reality. with a global presence and a commitment to excellence, we have been at the forefront of creating unforgettable holiday experiences for our clients worldwide..

• Streamlined Travel Costs
• Cutting-Edge Travel Innovations
• Enhanced Travel Safety and Security
• Flexible and Expandable Travel Packages
• Specialized Proficiency in Unique Industries
• Modernized Mobile Travel Solutions

Our trip became truly remarkable and unforgettable, all thanks to the exceptional service provided by Leaders Holidayz. The tour we embarked on was nothing short of spectacular, offering a comprehensive exploration of both Old and New Dubai. I wholeheartedly endorse the Dubai City tour they offer, as it combines professionalism with affordability.

Taking a yacht cruise is a fantastic way to explore Dubai, with its stunning views of the Atlantic and the iconic Burj Al Arab. We had a great time with Leaders Holidayz, who provided excellent service. It was a memorable experience that made us fall in love with Dubai. I highly recommend Leaders Holidayz for their professional and friendly service.

Leaders Holidayz Yacht cruise service exceeded all our expectations, allowing us to celebrate our daughter's birthday in the most magnificent and unforgettable manner. From the moment we stepped on board, we were treated to a level of service that can only be described as exceptional. Without a doubt, we will not only cherish these memories but also look forward to repeating this exceptional experience in the future.

I have never experienced such profound enjoyment in my entire life. I have developed a deep affection for the days spent with the exceptional team at Leaders Holidayz, relishing every golden moment of their service. The yacht cruise and fishing experiences were particularly delightful. I am immensely grateful and thoroughly satisfied. Thank you, Leaders Holidayz!

Escape to your dream destinations with Leaders Holidayz – your gateway to remarkable travel experiences, right from the heart of Dubai.

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The UAE's reach to draw tourists at Arabian Travel Market

When the region plots out the future of travel, it comes to dubai and the uae.

Visitors at the Abu Dhabi stand last year at the Arabian Travel Market, at Dubai World Trade Centre in Dubai. Pawan Singh / The National

One of the Middle East's annual big-ticket industry events, the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), takes place this week in Dubai, while the UAE continues to attract visitors from around the world. Just this year, Dubai was ranked first in the Top 100 City Destinations Index 2023 by Euromonitor International.

This comes against a backdrop of the world recovering from Covid-19, high inflation rates affecting travel, and turmoil in the region. Although the global travel market continues to r ecover, few can doubt that the dark clouds that have hovered over the Middle East since the Israel-Gaza war broke out in October of last year have taken a toll on tourism and business travel alike in countries like Egypt and Jordan.

Gathering the industry’s stakeholders to work through some of its challenges, however, is part of what the ATM is about. This year, the number of exhibitors is up to 2,300, and they will attend a range of panel discussions about subjects such as strengthening the sector’s resilience, future proofing it from global economic disruptions and reinforcing security.

By the time the event concludes, participants will have heard from 200 speakers, on subjects such as innovation and entrepreneurship (this year's theme is “empowering innovation: transforming travel through entrepreneurship"), and about 41,000 people from 165 countries would have attended some of these sessions, concluded significant deals and drawn up business plans for the next year.

The ATM provides an important opportunity for destinations to update the world on their latest touristic developments, whether it’s Abu Dhabi displaying the variety of experiences the emirate has to offer; Sharjah putting forwards its innovation projects; Saudi Arabia attracting visitors to its lesser known leisure attractions; or Oman's Ministry of Heritage and Tourism presenting the best of the country's tourist sites.

While the UAE and the GCC are desirable destinations on their own, with much to offer in terms of retail, heritage and hospitality, they become all the more of a draw to travellers in the current context as they remain untouched by fears of war.

For those from growing markets such as China and India, the UAE and GCC are appealing repeat destinations that are not too far, and have all of the comforts.

The situation for other parts of the Middle East is more challenging. The Israel-Gaza war stretches on, its many, varied repercussions become even clearer. Beyond the tragic and needless loss of lives, the economic effects of the war have not been contained to the war zone. Many of these have been felt in neighbouring countries. One consequence has been the disrupted livelihoods, an impact of the dip in tourism to countries in the Levant, including Lebanon and Jordan, and Palestinian territories especially East Jerusalem . A ceasefire and permanent peace would ultimately bring back the tourists to those historically rich places with abundant natural beauty.

As when travel rebounded after Covid-19, there will be be plenty of lessons in how to ride over the turbulence that hit livelihoods of tour operators and employees of the hotel and airline industries due to the conflict. While countries can learn from each other's strategies to cope with economic distress or geopolitical conflict, and help tourism, we can also all get behind the idea of travelling to new places and broadening horizons.

Top Travel Trip

Branch Name: Cotonou

ImmeubleSatguru, derriere Espace Dina, Carrefour KeteKete, St Michel, Cotonou, Benin, (01-BP-212)

TEL: +229 9480 8307, +229 9797 0694

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Douala

Opposite Bicec - Akwa, Next To Direction Orange, Douala - (Cameroon).

TEL: +237 65207 3547

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Yaounde

Opposite residences ambassade du Nigeria, Bastos, Yaounde – Cameroon

TEL: +237 683 964 663 / 651 915 978

EMAIL: [email protected]

Côte d'Ivoire

Branch Name: Abidjan

1ème étage, ImmeubleAmiral Rue du commerce, face Novotel Abidjan - Côte d'Ivoire

TEL: +225 05 65 10 79 83

EMAIL: [email protected]

DRC (Democratic Republic of the Congo)

Branch Name: Kinshasa

ImmeubleL’bourse, Rond Point, Forescom, Avenue De La Prix, No 22389, Kinshasa, Gombe

TEL: +243 858823236

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Cairo

Office 8, 3rd Floor, Building 13, Above HSBC Bank, Kasr El NIle, Cairo, Egypt

TEL: +201102854771

EMAIL: [email protected]

Top Travel Trip Limited

Branch Name: Nairobi

1st Floor, Kenindia House, Loita St, Nairob

TEL: +254 711 914 184

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Lilongwe

ADL House, City Centre, P.O. Box- 30185, Lilongwe

TEL: +265 995802301

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Casablanca

57 rue jean jaurèsgautier, Casablanca

TEL: +212 5 22 36 93 93

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Lagos

No 31, Metro Park, Opp Radisson Blu hotel, Isaac John street, GRA, Ikeja, Lagos

TEL: +234 812 037 4520

EMAIL: [email protected]

Republic of the Congo

Branch Name: Brazzaville

Immeuble Residence de la plaine, Centre Ville à côtéBoulangerie la Plaine,Brazzaville -Congo.

TEL: +242 06 546 55 90

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Pointe-Noire

En face de supermarche Home Market, Rond Point, Ex Bata, Centre Ville, Pointe Noire, Congo

TEL: +242-040663653

EMAIL: [email protected]

South Africa

Branch Name: Johannesburg

WeWork Sandton, 155 West Street, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2031

TEL: +27 (0) 83 234 1847

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Dar-Es-Salam

Office No. 003 On The Ground Floor Crescent Building, Opp. Haidery Plaza, Upanga Road, Dar Es Salaam

TEL: +255712337001

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Kampala

Plot 12/13, Ground Floor, Impala House, Opp. KCCA, Kampala - UGANDA

TEL: +256 414257557

EMAIL: [email protected]

UAE - Dubai

Level 3 (3rd Floor), Near Crown Plaza Hotel, Latifa Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Center 1, Dubai - (United Arab Emirates).

TEL: +971 4 5561 010

FAX: +971 4 3688 778

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Lusaka

Plot No. 6104/3 Corner of Great East / Chisokone Road, Opposite Handyman's Paradise, Northmead Lusaka

TEL: +260 766317986

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Harare

Shop No 05, 1 Wayne Street, Farm & City Centre, Harare

TEL: +263 785583523

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Luanda

Office no. 7, Floor 11, Edificio Avenca, Plaza Rua Rei Katyavala, Kinaxixi

Loja B, Edificio Soleil, Rua TipoGraphia Mama Tita, Avlado: Predio de Sede Tcul (Onibus), Mutamba, Luanda.

TEL: +244959104247

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Lome

Immeuble P. Therese, BD du 13 Janiver, Rue des femmes savantes, Lome, Togo

TEL: +22893551516

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Dakar

Rue 66 du docteur thèze dakar

TEL: +221773328590

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Niamey

Bp 11114 Round Point Maourey Niamey

TEL: 80070754

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: T3 Mauritius

Level 1, Murphy Skies, Murphy Avenue, Quatre Bornes, Mauritius

TEL: +230 59412244

EMAIL: [email protected]

Branch Name: Libraville

Centreville, Infront of PUMG or PAUL, Next to GIPA, Libreville, Gabon.

TEL: +24105889619

EMAIL: [email protected]

Top travel trends for 2024: Study unpacks UAE traveller habits

From choosing sustainable travel options to making up to two outbound trips in 2024 are some of the trends being followed by UAE travelers

UAE travellers are digitally savvy, plan to travel despite rising costs, are looking at sustainable options and could make up to two outbound international trips in the coming year. That is according to a study published by global payments platform Visa.

The Global Travel Intentions Study by Visa also revealed that UAE residents chose to travel to India, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia the most in the past year.

The findings and trends highlighted are based on a survey conducted among UAE residents between the age groups 18-55 who traveled overseas for leisure in the past year and intend to travel further this year.

Salima Gutieva, vice president and country manager for the UAE, Visa, said: “The latest Visa Global Travel Intentions Study reflects the UAE’s robust travel sector and a strong shift towards digital payments, signaling a surge in consumer confidence.”

“UAE travellers increasingly seek to enhance their travel experience, which they can do by taking advantage of Visa’s privileges and discounted offers. We are dedicated to using these insights to meet the changing needs of global travellers with secure, convenient, and innovative payment solutions.”

Here are the findings of the Visa study:

Travel for travel’s sake:

The study, which surveyed over 1,000 travellers spotlighted that UAE outbound travellers prefer relaxation trips (58 per cent), followed by visiting family and friends (42 per cent), exploring new destinations (33 per cent), and seeking adventure (33 per cent).

Independent travel preference:

61 per cent of surveyed travellers favour independent travel over packaged tours, citing greater flexibility and control over arrangements while 40 per cent are willing to pay higher prices for flexibility in trip plans.

Travel spending patterns:

Families with older kids are the biggest spenders at destinations (66 per cent), while Gen Z travellers tend to spend most before trips.

Fashion, restaurants, and accommodation are the largest spending categories, with digital wallets (70 per cent) playing a significant role alongside credit cards.

Payment concerns pre-trip:

85 per cent of travellers express payment concerns before trips, including worries about card acceptance, currency conversion costs, and ATM withdrawal fees.

Gen Z worries most about card fraud (62 per cent), while affluent travellers (68 per cent) are concerned about cash-related issues.

Embracing sustainable travel:

73 per cent of travellers are aware of eco-friendly travel, with 49 per cent actively seeking sustainable options during recent trips.

Sustainable accommodation (32 per cent) and energy-efficient transport (27 per cent) are top priorities, although accessing relevant information remains a challenge for 73 per cent of respondents.

The trends and diverse sample gives a strong insight into the various age groups who spend on travel as well as provides a comprehensive understanding of traveller demographics and behaviors in the UAE.  

Read: DXB sees passenger traffic soar in 2023, welcomes 86.9 million travellers

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The best travel credit cards in the UAE for air miles, hotel deals and more

By Keith J Fernandez

Tapping your credit card for convenience reasons alone is now an unforgivable missed opportunity. For several years now, UAE residents have been able to collect points on credit card spending for redemption against discounts on movies and dining, as well as cashback against fuel or retail purchases. But inveterate travellers know that credit cards can be used to turn everyday expenses into unforgettable getaways, and taking out the right credit card means that every dirham you spend can be redeemed against airline tickets, hotel stays or other incentives. 

Common features of travel credit cards in the UAE

Before signing on the dotted line, it’s worth taking a look at some common benefits that travel credit cards offer in the UAE. You’ll most commonly be eligible for the following – often without spending a dirham. Make sure to ask about these perks:

Welcome gift

Most travel credit cards offer reward points or miles as a sign-on bonus.

No annual fee

Another sign-on incentive, annual fees are typically waived for the first year. Some cards will carry this annual waiver forward if you spend a certain amount on your card each year.

Free access to airport lounges

The best credit cards offer a set number of complimentary visits to airport lounges , usually in the UAE, but sometimes in other countries. So if your flight is delayed – or you’ve somehow whizzed through check-in – you can relax with a nice, cold glass of something calming.

Supplementary credit cards

Typically, cardholders can sign up for a specified number of supplementary cards. These usually don’t cost more, and the overall credit limit doesn’t change. You should be able to set the spending limit on each add-on credit card.

Travel insurance

Some travel credit card issuers provide free travel accident insurance cover to the cardholder as well as compensation for the missed or delayed flights and lost luggage.

Golf benefits

Tee fees may be waived a couple of times a year for travel credit cardholders at specific golf courses in the UAE. 

Other benefits

Travel credit cards in the UAE may also provide benefits such as discount coupons for dining, complimentary movie tickets, concierge services, valet parking, purchase protection, et cetera.

The best travel credit cards in the UAE

There are a broad range of travel-friendly credit cards available in the UAE and we’ve researched the pros and cons, so you don’t have to. Here’s a shortlist of some of the most useful. Most are available in a number of variations aimed at different income levels.

Emirates Citibank Ultima Credit Card

Touted as being made of metal for the primary account holder, the best thing about this Citibank credit card is actually that you earn one Skywards mile on every $1 spent within the UAE. That rises to 1.5 Skywards miles for every dollar spent on foreign exchange and 2.5 Skywards miles on every dollar spent at Emirates.com. Once your application is approved, you receive a welcome bonus of 25,000 Skywards miles, and an additional 10,000 Skywards miles when you pay the $817 (Dh3,000) annual membership fee each year. Other benefits include two complimentary bookings with the airport concierge service, Marhaba, and up to six Careem airport car transfers (up to $30 each) and valet parking services. Are you eligible? You’ll need to be a UAE resident and earn a minimum monthly salary of $10,000 (Dh36,750).

Emirates NBD dnata Platinum Credit Card

Nothing less than the best for you? Emirates NBD may have just the ticket for you. As one of the most flexible credit cards, it carries straightforward discounts on airline tickets, holiday packages and dining in the UAE, as well as offering the bank’s Credit Shield Pro life and job loss insurance policy. In addition, there’s unlimited complimentary airport lounge access to more than 25 regional and international airports. Finally, it’s one of the cheaper credit cards, at $143 (Dh525) per year. As an introductory offer, the bank is advertising up to $272 (Dh1,000) in travel vouchers on its website. Are you eligible? UAE residents will need to earn at least $2,180 (Dh8,000) to apply for the card.

ADIB Etihad Guest Gold Card

High-flyers based in Abu Dhabi may want to consider ADIB’s co-branded cards with Etihad airways. They range from classic to platinum, each with a different eligibility profile. For example, the ADIB Etihad Guest Gold Card offers a substantial welcome bonus of 35,000 Guest miles. On international expenses, it provides 1.5 air miles for every $1.10 (Dh4) spent, or one air mile per $1.10 on domestic transactions. Other features include a coveted companion Etihad Airways ticket voucher when you spend $40,840 (Dh150,000) or more on your card, a high cash withdrawal limit and access to 850 VIP airport lounges globally (complimentary twice a year).

Are you eligible? ADIB doesn’t list the minimum salary requirement on its website, but the financial services comparison website, Policybazaar.ae, states that it’s a minimum of $1,361 (Dh5,000) per month.

HSBC Platinum Select Credit Card

Hate paying annual fees? You’re in luck with HSBC, which gives you Air Miles every time you spend on one of its credit cards. These can be traded in for free tickets (including the taxes) in any class. There are no blackout dates, so if there’s a seat available on the flight, you can book it through the Air Miles travel shop. Other features include discounts on restaurants with the discount app, Entertainer, as well as discounts on airlines such as British Airways. 

Are you eligible? To apply, you’ll need to live in the UAE and transfer at least $2,723 (Dh10,000) a month into an HSBC Personal Banking Account.

First Abu Dhabi Bank Infinite Travel Card

True globetrotters may want to pick a credit card that doesn’t limit your booking options to a single airline or hotel brand. FAB’s Infinite Travel card offers a choice of more than 800 airlines, and more than 500,000 hotels and car rentals for redemption against FAB miles. Partner programmes include Emirates Skywards, KLM-Air France’s Flying Blue, Avianca LifeMiles, Turkish Airlines Miles & Smiles, Club Vistara, Jumeirah One and IHG Rewards. You get 1.5 FAB miles on each dollar spent on retail purchases anywhere, and 2 miles for each dollar spent on travel. Redemption and payments all happen within the FAB Miles mobile app. Besides a welcome travel voucher of $408 (Dh1,500) on activating your card, other benefits include one complimentary hotel night for every three paid nights, complimentary access to more than 1,000 airport lounges globally for the cardholder and one guest, up to eight airport transfers a year within the UAE and up to six airport transfers capped at $25 per ride with Uber internationally.

Are you eligible? Bank account holders will need to earn at least $8,168 (Dh30,000) to apply.

What to consider before taking a travel credit card in the UAE

With the UAE’s tax-free salaries, many expats are spoilt for choice when it comes to being eligible for travel credit cards. But enticing as accruing air miles sounds, there’s always a caveat: you may well spend more than you intended in pursuit of your travel goal and sometimes you might be better off just buying the ticket directly. Paying your monthly statement in full can help you stay financially healthy, but you’ll also want to take a closer look at yearly fees, annual interest rates, and the complexity of each rewards programme before signing up for any credit card. Some rewards are widely advertised but notoriously expensive to cash in on so ask your friends and colleagues for their experiences. It’s also worth considering what’s more important to you: lounge access or hotel discounts? And do you really need to transfer your salary to the bank? No travel friendly credit card will offer the best of all its features, so decide what’s most important to you before making a final decision.

Expo City Dubai

Price & Hours

• Facilities 4.0
• Atmosphere 4.0

Even if you were unable to visit Dubai's World Expo from 2021 to 2022, you can still visit the custom-built "city" that played host to it. Expo City Dubai remains an excellent family-friendly destination with plenty to see and do. In addition to restaurants serving global cuisine, there are a number of pavilions that cover various important topics such as sustainability, contributions from women and an organic farm. Don't miss Al Wasl Plaza, the city's captivating hub that features the world's largest 360-degree projection surface with light projections starting at sunset each evening.

Visitors recommended visiting Expo City Dubai in the cooler months as well as during holidays such as Christmastime and Ramadan, when there is holiday-inspired decor and entertainment taking place. Families agreed this was a good place to take children and that renting scooters help traverse the destination more easily. Visitors said they appreciated the mix of culture, technology and environmental aspects that were on display as well as its spectacular architectural features.

Expo City Dubai is located on the fringe of the city, about 15 miles south of Palm Jumeirah . The fastest way to arrive is by taking the Dubai Metro to one of two Expo 2020 metro stations. Hours vary by attraction but Expo City Dubai itself is open 24 hours daily year-round. It is also free to enter. Some attractions (such as the Expo City Farm) are free to explore, while others (like the Women's Pavilion) will cost 30 to 50 dirhams (about $8 to $14) per person per attraction. An Attractions Pass grants access to all attractions and starts from 120 dirhams (about $33) with children aged 12 and younger free. Learn more at the city's website .

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#1 Burj Al Arab

Overlooking the Persian Gulf from its perch between Jumeirah's shore and the Palm Jumeirah , this stunning building has wowed architecture buffs since it opened in 1999. Its curved glass façade – modeled after the sails that have graced Dubai's waterways all these years – shelters a world-class, über-luxurious hotel located on its own human-made island. The hotel not only houses one of the tallest atriums in the world at nearly 600 feet high, but it is one of the tallest hotels in the world. Architecture aside, amenities include revolving beds in some suites, as well as a helipad, in case you thought arriving via a Rolls-Royce was too pedestrian.

You don't have to stay at the Burj Al Arab to enjoy it (and let's face it, most can't given that rooms start at $1,000 per night). Gain entry by booking an Inside Burj Al Arab Tour (249 dirhams or roughly $68) or by grabbing a bite at one of the on-site restaurants. Among them are Ristorante L'Olivo at Al Mahara, which features floor-to-ceiling windows guarding a massive fish tank, and the sky-high Al Muntaha, located on the scenic 27th floor of the building.

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ATM 2024: UAE’s travel sector gears up for another bumper year as tourists seek longer stays

Travel & tourism.

Hotel room rates are expected to increase by 10% in Dubai

Dubai: The UAE’s travel and tourism sector is gearing up for another bumper year, driven by growing demand among tourists for longer stays and more immersive experiences – all of which the UAE is well placed to provide, according to industry experts.

Buoyed by investments in the hospitality sector and the opening of several new hotels and attractions, experts have said the UAE is also well-placed to achieve its strategic goal of welcoming 40 million hotel guests by 2031.

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“Many travellers are now choosing longer seven to ten-day holidays. Inbound visitors are staying in the UAE longer as well. This is more so the case because business travellers are combining their work trips with leisure holidays,” according to Raheesh Babu, COO of Musafir.com, an online travel agency. “Moreover, travellers are booking for their summer holidays months in advance. The frequency of travel has also witnessed a significant uptick, with travellers opting for multiple trips annually.” This goes for both inbound and outbound travel.

On the hospitality front, at least 14 new hotel openings are expected to take place this year, from Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab to Five Luxe. According to the Hotel Monitor, 2024 report by American Express Global Business Travel (Amex GBT), hotel room rates are expected to increase by 10 percent in Dubai.

Dubai is at the forefront of the regional hospitality market with a robust outlook for 2024. The city now surpasses major capitals like London, New York City, and Bangkok in hotel room availability, boasting over 150,000 hotel rooms as of this month, according to Danielle Curtis, Exhibition Director ME, Arabian Travel Market (ATM)

The optimism from hospitality leaders comes ahead of the 30th edition of the ATM, set to begin on Monday, May 6. Over 41,000 visitors are expected to participate this year.

Demand to remain robust

Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths predicts that travel demand will remain robust for the foreseeable future. “I am very optimistic that passenger demand will continue to surprise us every time we revise the forecast. It is always in the upward direction. So, I think that is going to be a phenomenon that we will have to live with for quite a long time,” said Griffiths.

In 2023, Dubai International Airport (DXB) remained the busiest international hub for passengers for the 10th year in a row, according to preliminary data from the Airports Council International (ACI). DXB saw a surge in long-distance travel demand, handling 86.9 million passengers, marking a 31.7 per cent increase from the year before.

Major contributor to GDP

“Last year, the UAE exceeded the 2019 numbers (contribution to GDP) by a quarter. It was 25 per cent bigger than in 2019. That is a massive leap and probably one of the biggest in the world. This year, in 2024, we predict that travel and tourism will represent 12 percent of UAE’s GDP, and it is going to be worth Dh236.4 billion,” said Julia Simpson, President and CEO of the World Travel and Tourism Council.

She said, “The sector will employ 832,900 people this year. That means over 12 percent of the employable population will be in travel and tourism. In 10 years, there will be a million jobs in travel and tourism, and the sector is likely to be worth Dh275 billion.”

The WTTC chief said international visitors account for nearly 75 per cent, or three-quarters, of all spending within the sector.

“If you look at leisure versus business spending, you can see that leisure is very strong. About 83 per cent of all spending comes from leisure visitors,” she explained.

International visitor spending is forecasted to grow by nearly 10 per cent, reaching Dh192 billion, while domestic visitor spending is expected to increase by 4.3 per cent to reach almost Dh58 billion. Julia explained, “The UAE's travel and tourism sector has not only recovered; it soared to new heights, establishing itself as a cornerstone of the nation's economic landscape.”

UAE’s strategy also aims to raise the tourism sector’s contribution to the GDP to Dh450 billion, with an annual increase of Dh27 billion, and attract new investments of Dh100 billion to the sector in the country.

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Get Your Ultimate Travel Guide to Dubai with Next Holidays

From the moment you arrive in dubai, get ready for an incredible experience this city is a total charmer, located in the gulf..

Are you dreaming of visiting Dubai’s luxury, but you are stressed about making all the plans? Worry no more, our friend! Whether it is exploring the amazing culture and sights or spending on some top-notch luxuries, Next Holidays, the  best travel agency in Dubai for holiday packages , has got your back.

They are excited to reveal all our secret tips and tricks. Get ready for your epic Dubai escape with them. So, what are you waiting for? Jump right into this ultimate Dubai adventure together!

Dubai, a City of Rich Culture and Vibrant Modernity

From the moment you arrive in Dubai, get ready for an incredible experience! This city is a total charmer, located in the Gulf. It has the coolest skyscrapers and architecture you will ever see.

Dubai is a top spot for tourists, but it may be stressful if you visit without preparations. But do not worry! Next Holidays is here to help. 

Pick the Best Transportation

The traffic can get pretty crazy during rush hours. So, it is a good idea to time your trips wisely. Also, their workweek goes from Sunday to Thursday. That means Friday and Saturday are their weekend days when the roads are usually a bit quieter.

There are many options available to you for getting around the city. There are the regular cabs that won't break the bank, a super clean and user-friendly metro system, and even those fun hop-on/hop-off buses. Keep in mind that while the metro is not as frequent on weekends, it gets packed on weekdays. So plan accordingly to avoid the crowd!

Stay Options for Everyone

Yeah, Dubai is truly an amazing city with loads of places to stay that fit any wallet size. If you love spending and living in style, there is no shortage of luxury hotels to pick from. But if your budget is tight, do not worry—there are a lot of Airbnb options available too.

When it comes to picking the perfect spot, imagine Dubai as this big, long stretch. You will end up traveling along the same road pretty much all the time, so staying somewhere convenient really matters. The Dubai Mall and that incredibly famous skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa, are the hub of activity.

With their awesome beaches and mind-blowing views, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina are ideal for Instagram moments. And at the other end? You are near the airport and some really cool old souks that tell tons about Dubai's rich history. Choose wisely based on what vibes more with your trip plans!

Best Time to Travel

Note that Dubai is directly next to the desert, so be prepared for the sweat. If you are thinking of visiting Dubai, aim for November to April. The weather is pretty sweet then—somewhere between 20 and 30 degrees Celsius. 

Other months? Way too hot! Plus, that is when most tourists hit the city too. So if you are planning your trip, those are definitely the best months to immerse yourself in all of Dubai without melting away!

Tips to Save Money in Dubai

Here are some helpful tips that will make your life easier. Let's dive in!

• Why not grab a bite at local eateries? It is a cool way to soak up the culture and keep your wallet happy.
• Looking to save on sightseeing? Before you spend money at tourist spots, look around the town for free locations and check those out.
• Consider hopping on public transport—it is way cheaper than renting cars or catching cabs.
• There are tons of budget-friendly places to stay, which can cut down on your expenses quite a bit.
• When shopping, avoid visiting international brand stores; they tend to be pricier in Dubai.
• Drinking water is not free here, so fill up your bottle at hotels where it is usually free. 

Where to Satisfy Your Cravings?

Dubai is all about living it up, with its fancy dining spots by the beach or high-altitude dining in the sky. You will rarely find a bad meal here, trust us! Craving for luxurious options? You should check out the  list of the most expensive restaurants in Dubai in 2024 . 

Head to Dubai with the Next Holidays!

So, ready to dive into everything Dubai has to offer? Whether it is your first time or you are visiting for more exploration, this city never fails to amaze you. There is something for everyone here, with skyscrapers touching the stars and shopping centers to make any shopper happy. Let Next Holidays be your guide to discover the local gems and truly experience the essence of the place you are visiting. Get ready—an epic adventure is waiting for you!

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.

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Qatar Airways Sets the Stage for the Future of Travel at the Arabian Travel Market 2024

‘The Best Airline in the Middle East’ has set a new benchmark in travel innovation by introducing the World’s First AI Digital Human Cabin Crew on the inaugural day of ATM Dubai 2024

From its Doha hub- Hamad International Airport – ‘World’s Best Airport’ as voted by Skytrax in 2024 – Qatar Airways flies to over 170 destinations

Dubai, UAE – Qatar Airways, an unprecedented seven-time winner of the ‘World’s Best Airline’ award, has captured the spotlight on the opening day of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM) 2024, with a stunning holographic display of Sama, the airline’s second-generation AI-powered digital human cabin crew. This innovative display, along with a cutting-edge stand featuring multi-sensory-rich experiences showcased the airline’s technological prowess, captivating crowds at the biggest travel and tourism event in the Middle East.

Powered by advanced conversational AI, Sama engaged with ATM’s attendees, effortlessly demonstrating her knowledge on Qatar Airways’ diverse operations. The digital human cabin crew, designed to enable personalised travel experiences, will continue to evolve over time to improve responses through passenger interactions in the airline's immersive platform, QVerse .

In addition to the introduction of Sama, the multiple award-winning airline unveiled its innovative experience stand, offering enthusiastic crowds advanced immersive experiences. From virtual reality (VR) tours to the revolutionary multi-sensory pod, Qatar Airways’ latest technological advancements continue to enthral visitors at ATM 2024, offering them a unique way to explore the interiors of the airline’s state-of-the-art the fleet, as well as the exceptional luxury and comfort of the award-winning Qsuite.

Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, said: “Qatar Airways is thrilled to return this year to ATM Dubai with Sama 2.0, who not only represents the cutting-edge of digital innovation in human interaction but also enhances the travel experience for all our passengers. As a multiple award-winning airline, this aligns perfectly with our commitment to exceeding expectations, offering both experts and travellers unparalleled, innovative interactions that resonate with them.”

Earlier this year, the national carrier of the State of Qatar announced several route launches and resumptions, as well as a significant increase in flight frequencies to meet the growing travel demand and enhance the airline’s global network comprising of more than 170 destinations.

Qatar Airways will start operating flights and resume services to the following destinations this summer:

·       Democratic Republic of Congo:  Inaugural flight to Kinshasa on 1 June 2024 (triangle with Luanda)

·       Uzbekistan: Inaugural flight to Tashkent on 2 June 2024

·       Portugal: Lisbon resumption on 6 June 2024

·       Italy: Resumption of flights to Venice on 12 June 2024

·       Germany: Inaugural flight to Hamburg on 1 July 2024

 Additionally, the national carrier of the state of Qatar will operate to the following destinations throughout the summer season: 

·       Adana: three weekly flights between 09 June and 25 August 2024.

·       Antalya: five weekly flights between 30 May and 31 August 2024.

·       Bodrum: three weekly flights between 07 June and 19 August 2024.

·       Marrakech: seven weekly flights between 01 April and 26 October 2024.

·       Mykonos: four weekly flights between 07June and 07 September 2024.

·       Sarajevo: seven weekly flights between 01 June and 29 September 2024.

·       Trabzon: five weekly flights between 07 June and 24 August 2024.

Destinations served by Qatar Airways will receive the following year on year flight frequency this summer:

·       Almaty - increased from seven weekly flights to 14

·       Baku - increased from seven weekly flights to 12

·       Bangkok - increased from 35 weekly flights to 38

·       Casablanca - increased from four weekly flights to seven

·       Copenhagen – increased from four weekly flights to seven

·       Dusseldorf - increased from seven weekly flights to 11

·       Hanoi - increased from 12 weekly flights to 21

·       Barcelona – increased from 14 weekly flights to 21

·       Boston – increased from seven weekly flights to 10

·       Brussels – increased from seven weekly flights to 12

·       Kuala Lumpur – increased from seven weekly flights to 14

·       Malaga - increased from three weekly flights to seven in peak season (has also been extended to year-round)

·       Manchester – increased from 18 weekly flights to 21

·       Miami – increased from seven weekly flights to 10

·       New York (JFK) - increased from 14 weekly flights to 21

·       Nice – increased from four weekly flights to seven (to increase in May ahead of the F1 Monaco Grand Prix and Cannes Film Festival)

·       Oslo – increased from seven weekly flights to 14

·       Paris – increased from 21 weekly flights to 28

·       Rome – increased from 18 weekly flights to 21

·       Seoul – increased from seven weekly flights to eight

·       Tunis – increased from seven weekly flights to 10

·       Warsaw – increased from 10 weekly flights to 14

Qatar Airways invites all guests at ATM Dubai to visit its new stand and meet Sama 2.0 – the embodiment of exceptional service and hospitality – at Dubai World Trade Centre, Sheikh Saeed Hall 2, Stand ME1450 from 6-9 May 2024.

About Qatar Airways

A multiple award-winning airline, Qatar Airways won the ‘World’s Best Business Class’ for the tenth time at the 2023 World Airline Awards, managed by the international air transport rating organisation, Skytrax. The airline continues to be synonymous with excellence, also taking home, 'Best Airline in the Middle East', 'World's Best Business Class Lounge' and 'World's Best Business Class Lounge Dining' at the prestigious awards held during the 2023 Paris Air Show. Qatar Airways is an unprecedented seven-time winner of the 'World’s Best Airline' voted by Skytrax (2011, 2012, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2021 and 2022). As leaders in industry innovation and digital adoption, Qatar Airways was recently voted the 'World’s Best Airline Website' by World Travel Tech Awards.

Qatar Airways was the first Airline in the Middle East to be certified to the highest level of IATA’s Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) programme, based on recognised environmental management system principles (such as ISO 14001). As an inaugural signatory to the Buckingham Palace Declaration in March 2016, Qatar Airways became the first airline globally to be certified to the industry standard for the prevention of illegal wildlife trafficking in aviation.

Qatar Airways currently flies to nearly 170 destinations worldwide, connecting through its Doha hub, Hamad International Airport, the ‘World’s Best Airport’, as voted by Skytrax in 2021, 2022, and 2024. In 2024, Hamad International Airport also received the ‘Best Airport in the Middle East’ accolade for 10 consecutive years, as well as ‘World’s Best Airport Shopping’ for the second year in a row.

Contact details

• Qatar Airways Group
• Corporate Communications Department
• [email protected]
• +974 4022 2200

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DOHA, Qatar – Qatar Airways Group Chief Executive Officer, Engr. Badr Mohammed Al-Meer, has revealed several major new developments in line with his vision for the future of Qatar Airways. Designed...

• 7 March 2024

DOHA, Qatar – Qatar Airways has won two leading accolades at the World MICE Awards™ held at Berlin, Germany on 6 March, 2024. The airline has been voted, ‘World’s Best MICE Airline 2023’, and ‘Midd...

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