All your previous knowledge of Dubai probably stems from skycrane pictures of the building boom that circulated the internet a couple years ago.
Of course, you’ll have likely heard of the man made islands and the worlds tallest building but after spending a couple days here, the sheer amount of things to do on budget (or off) are staggering.
So whether you want to work in Dubai, or are just visiting for tourism, sit down, and relax as we cover the best places to see in Dubai.
1. Go Up the Burj Khalifa
The absolutely monumental Burj Khalifa is currently the world’s tallest building. Go up on the 125th floor for sweeping views of the city. This is probably the number one unmissable thing to do in the Middle East, but only if you aren’t scared of heights.
2. Visit a Gold Souk or Al Karama
Buy gold or Silver by the pound here or in jewelry form as well. Any taxi driver knows where it is. Another option is Al Karma, a popular destination for buying top quality fake purses, watches, clothes, and shoes.
3. Dubai Mall
Dubai is hot, very hot, so most of your visit here will consist of being indoors and you’ll find yourself spending a lot of time at a mall believe it or not. They are like self-contained cities with much more to do than shop. The Dubai Mall is another world record holder for being the largest in the world. Full Aquarium and ice skating rink inside. Check out some of the best Dubai Mall attractions.
4. Land/Sea Dubai Tour
Worth the money to learn a little history about this ever expanding city. Did you know Dubai use to be a small fishing village in the 90′s? Book a tour to visit amazing places and discover how this city has developed over the decades. You could go on a 4×4 desert adventure, a thrilling experience to see the desert in person!
5. Beach
Dubai has so many beaches, this is a holiday after all, go relax!
6. Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Walk (JBW)
100% fabricated marina with condo developments stretching into the sky. JBW is the place to be seen in your 6-figure sports car and it runs parallel to the sea.
7. Burj Al Arab
Sail away in the fantasy turned reality hotel. Entrance to the hotel is only granted if you have a restaurant/bar or room reservation. Just make a reservation for drinks at Skyview Bar on the 27th and you’ll get in with no problem.
8. Mall of the Emirates
This is the former record holder for world’s largest shopping centre with a ski slope inside! Think tons of luxury shops, places to eat, and entertainment. Awesome for people watching too!
9. Explore Old Dubai
Old Dubai is a historical village full of restored buildings. See what Dubai used to look like before the radical change. This is a very quiet area and very local, a complete contrast to the shopping centres and tourism hotspots for example.
10. Enjoy Friday Brunch
Friday is the 1st day of the Dubai weekend and everyone brunches. Restaurants hold elaborate buffets to commemorate. Bubblicious is a noted place.
This list is just a sample of the best things to do in this incredible city, before departing, you might like to check out some important things to know before visiting Dubai.