~ This post was written by Bruno Queiroz, a Brazilian seasoned world traveller and YouTuber who created the travel channel Vai com Bruno. Watch his video on his trip Dubai here!
Dubai is renowned for its luxurious lifestyle, futuristic architecture, and diverse cultural experiences. It’s the perfect destination for first-time visitors or those returning for another adventure – there’s always something new to do! Keep reading for my pick of top 15 attractions to visit in Dubai.
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1. Burj Khalifa
Standing tall at 828m (2716 ft), the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. Visit observation decks on the 124th, 125th, or 148th floors to view Dubai’s expansive skyline. Now’s your chance to spot landmarks and get a grasp of the city’s layout.
For a special experience, get to the top before sunset. As the day transitions into night, you get to observe the city in two distinct lights. Appreciate the illuminated cityscape once the sun goes down.
2. Dubai Mall
With your feet back on solid ground, head to the Dubai Mall – right next to Burj Khalifa. With more than 1,200 retail outlets, you’ll find high-end brands and fantastic attractions.
Wander through an indoor aquarium or glide on the ice rink (regardless of the weather outside). When hunger strikes, choose from numerous dining spots, from quick bites to full-course meals.
3. Dubai Aquarium
Inside the Dubai Mall, you’ll find a massive aquarium hosting thousands of marine species. It serves as a window into underwater life, featuring a variety of fish, rays, and sharks.
The walk-through tunnel offers a unique vantage point, where you can watch sea creatures swim overhead. Information boards along the way provide insight into the lives and habits of these species.
With the blue hues surrounding you, the setting feels serene from the bustling mall outside. You have the chance to observe the fascinating behavior of ocean wildlife just a short distance from the shops and restaurants nearby.
4. The Dubai Fountain
At the base of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain presents a water show with illuminated jets that move in time with music; you can see it every evening from 18:30 to midnight.
Each show varies, offering a different visual and auditory experience each time. The water shoots up to impressive heights, while lights accompany the movements.
Positioned next to the Dubai Mall, the fountain area is easily accessible and open to everyone at no cost. You can enjoy the show from different vantage points around the lake, making it ideal for either a brief stop or a longer visit.
5. Museum of the Future
The Museum of the Future stands out with its modern design and focus on what’s next in science and technology. Its facade features windows forming a poem in Arabic, penned by Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, reflecting visions of the future.
It extends over 7 floors, each dedicated to exploring various aspects of future advancements. This integration of art and architecture draws you into a world where imagination meets reality, providing insights into how science and tech might evolve in the coming years.
6. The View at the Palm
Looking for even more scenic views of Dubai from above? Visit the observation deck on level 52 of the Palm Tower. Look out over the distinctive Palm Jumeirah, a sprawling palm tree, extending into the Persian Gulf.
From this high vantage point, you’ll spot luxury resorts, clear waters, and white sandy beaches. The observation deck offers large windows to appreciate the man-made island. In every direction, there’s something to catch your eye in this unique location.
7. Aquaventure Water Park
Located at Atlantis, The Palm, this extensive water park offers a variety of attractions for all ages. It is the largest waterpark globally, with 105 different slides and rides. You’ll find some of the tallest and fastest slides out there, alongside a lazy river ride and lounger areas.
For those interested in marine life, the park provides opportunities for up-close encounters with various sea creatures. Families and kids can enjoy a mix of adventure and learning, making it a suitable outing for everyone.
8. Aura Sky Pool
Unwind at a unique 360º infinity pool where you see Dubai’s skyline from all angles. Reservations are needed, and you choose from different time slots throughout the day.
Morning visitors might enjoy a quieter atmosphere as the city slowly awakens. Midday offers a lively vibe with the sun high above. In the evening, you can see the city’s lights begin to twinkle as the day transitions to night. Each time slot provides a different perspective of Dubai from above.
9. Dubai Frame
Holding the record for largest frame in the world, the Dubai Frame offers panoramic views of both old and new Dubai from its glass bridge.
The building has a height of 150m (492 ft) and a width of 95m (313 ft) and contains an observatory, museum and monument in Zabeel Park.
10. Desert Safari
Explore the Arabian Desert through a desert safari. Try dune bashing, where you ride a 4×4 vehicle across the sand dunes, hop on a camel, or glide down the downs on a sandboard.
Afterwards, you can dine in a Bedouin-style camp, try a mix of local foods and see traditional dance performances.
11. Inside Burj Al Arab
Consider joining a guided tour to look at the interiors of the Burj Al Arab. The hotel, designed to resemble a sail, stands on an artificial island and connects to the mainland through a bridge.
Inside, find marble, gold accents, and vibrant colors that reflect the extravagant design. The hotel boasts world-class amenities and offers glimpses of luxury suites, fine dining restaurants, and the impressive atrium, one of the tallest in the world.
12. Sky Views Dubai
At this high-rise attraction, you can ride down a glass slide that curves around the building’s exterior, offering a look at the city below.
The observatory itself provides a clear overlook of the city, highlighting key landmarks – the Burj Al Arab, the Persian Gulf, and Burj Khalifa.
13. Day Trip to Abu Dhabi
Visit the neighboring capital, Abu Dhabi, to see impressive cultural sites. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands as one of the largest mosques worldwide and combines various Islamic design styles. You’ll see 82 domes and more than 1,000 columns. Inside, 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers hang, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet covers the floor.
Nearby, the Louvre Abu Dhabi offers unique exhibitions. The museum’s design showcases links between different civilizations and cultures. As you walk through, you’ll follow a chronological and theme-based route.
14. Dubai Marina Cruise
Take a boat trip that offers dinner against the backdrop of the modern city. You see skyscrapers lit up against the night sky, showcasing architectural designs like the twisting Cayan Tower and the impressive Burj Al Arab.
The waterway provides a vantage point from the water, revealing the city’s evolving skyline. As you dine, you have the chance to notice landmarks from a new angle and the reflection of city lights on the water creates a setting that you won’t soon forget.
15. Miracle Garden
Looking for a natural retreat? There’s plenty to see at the Dubai Miracle Garden. With more than 250 million flowers on display from October to April, it features a wide range of colorful and unique varieties.
