7 Best Places to Visit in Dubai

At first glance, Dubai seems to be the playground of the rich and the famous. But it is also a thriving holiday destination with a wide range of attractions to see and things to do. It enthrals you with an eclectic mix of the new and the old. Futuristic architecture, glamorous mega-malls and charming old souks coexist seamlessly to form the core of your Dubai holiday experience. The adage, “Go big or go home”, is a fitting testimony to Dubai’s grand hospitality.

With so much on offer, it’s difficult to see it all in one trip. So here are our recommendations of the seven best places to visit in Dubai.

1. Burj Khalifa

The tallest tower in the world is not only an architectural marvel, but is also a tourist attraction, like no other. They say you can see the sunset twice in one day at Burj Khalifa, once from the ground level and then from the top! It is home to nine of the city’s most luxurious hotels along with several restaurants.

It has two observation decks that let you catch spectacular views of the Gulf, the city and the desert beyond it. On a clear day, you can even see the shores of Iran! Burj Khalifa also houses its very own lake, a vast parkland and the Dubai Mall. A visit here will be one of the highlights of your Dubai holiday.

2. Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall of UAE is one of the largest and the grandest malls in the world. Along with 1200 stores of some of the best brands in the world, the mall has 22 cinemas and 120 cafes and restaurants. And the fun doesn’t stop there! It offers the ultimate in entertainment with Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink and loads of children’s edutainment activities.

You can spend an entire day at the aquarium! The Olympic-sized skating rink offers hours of fun. Be sure to check out the four-floor-high ‘Human Cascades’ which features sculptures of various human figures. If you’re looking to take a break from all the sightseeing, relax at the Dubai Mall.

3. Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame is a statement of Dubai’s commitment to keeping its past relevant in its high-tech present. At 150 metres high, it is the largest frame in the world. It offers a 360-degree view that combines the rustic charm of Old Dubai with the stunning magnificence of its new avatar. The topside of the frame is a symbolic bridge that connects the past with the future.

The views from the top are thrilling as they’re beautiful. The glass walkway at the top offers some really breath-taking views! It hosts a number of fine dining restaurants and top-rated hotels along with a variety of entertainment options. It is worth visiting the Dubai Frame for the views it offers.

4. Global Village

Dubai does everything on a grand scale. Global Village is an annual event that creates a grand cultural spectacle for Dubai’s guests. It is a global jamboree that showcases culture and food from different parts around the world. Apart from performances of all kind, you can also enjoy an international shopping experience. Every country gets a separate pavilion to exhibit their unique offerings.

Starting in November every year, it continues until April of the following year. It offers you a unique insight into different cultures of the world, at one place. The days are dedicated to shopping, food and culture while the nights are reserved for fireworks. The stunning fireworks display ends your day on a high note.

5. Dubai Miracle Garden

A garden full of flowers is nothing extraordinary by itself. But when a garden is home to fifty million flowers, and its located in the middle of a desert, it takes on a special significance. Flowers are used to create amazing displays ranging from the Burj Khalifa to arcs and tombs. There are themed displays such as Disney Avenue and Lost Paradise, all around the garden.

The Floral Clock, 3D floral designs and the Umbrella Passage are some of the more famous attractions. But the most colourful of them all is the butterfly garden which houses around 15,000 butterflies. If you get tired from your explorations, relax in a cabana or indulge in some yummy global flavours.

6. Gold Souk and Spice Souk

Dubai has some of the glitziest and the biggest malls in the world. But Dubai offers one of the most unique shopping experiences in its souks. The gold and spice souks are two of the most well-known shopping destinations for indulging in rustic retail therapy. The heady spicy fragrances in the spice souk offer a distinctive sensory experience to make your shopping more involved.

The gold souk has a dazzling array of antiques, jewellery and countless other knickknacks that make it seem like Ali Baba’s cave of treasures. The souks offer an unhurried shopping experience where bargaining is expected and even encouraged. Shopping here is an event you will remember for life.

7. Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is the crowning jewel of ‘New Dubai’. The Canal City is a treasure chest of exquisite delights. With its upscale shopping, classy hotels and gourmet restaurants, the marina will pamper you and indulge your every whim. It is one of the few pedestrian-friendly areas in Dubai that encourages you take relaxing strolls or go jogging in pursuit of fitness.

It is a good place to spend an evening with a loved one or simply enjoying a family-friendly holiday. Along with good food, you will find plenty of live, pop-up entertainment to satiate your cultural appetites. But the biggest attraction of the marina is Jumeirah Beach which hosts a number of adventure activities.

These seven are some of the must-visit places in Dubai, featuring the best the city has to offer. Of course, there are more places to see. But these seven will really kick off your Dubai experience and set the tone of your holiday.