Boasting a plethora of exciting attractions, Dubai has solidified its place among the top travel destinations in the world. From sky-high towers and sun-kissed beaches to opulent malls and historical landmarks, the luxurious city offers something fun to please every taste, contrary to its superficial image.
The trick is to find the right spots to explore, which can be tough, especially when you’re a first-time traveler. Worry no more! To help you make the most out of your UAE tours, Burj Diary has meticulously compiled a list of all the top places to visit in Dubai below.
Whether you’re planning solo or family trips to the world-famous metropolis, these celebrated sites are guaranteed to give you the best time of your life. Discover and ensure an unforgettable experience like never before.
Top 21 Places to Visit in Dubai
Burj Khalifa
A short trip to the world’s tallest building is a must if you’re new to Dubai. The iconic skyscraper is among the most popular attractions of the town. A marvel in itself, soaring 828 meters high, it gives you a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding skylines and desert as you reach the observation deck on the 124th floor via a swift elevator ride that feels like a trip through time, a sight you don’t witness very often in your life.
Also, consider indulging in the afternoon tea at the top if you have a little extra budget to spend. Although costly, we ensure that the experience will make every penny worth the investment.
- Location: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – UAE
- Contact: 800 28843867/ +9714 8888124
- Timings: 8 AM to 12 AM
- Ticket: Starts at 170 AED, Book Here
Dubai Fountain Show
Right next to Burj Khalifa is the popular Dubai fountain. Featuring the world’s tallest water jets (shooting 500 feet high) choreographed beautifully with over 6500 lights, 50 colored projectors and the classical Arab and Western fusion background music, it will give you the most epic and mind-blowing fountain show you’ve ever witnessed.
The colorful display begins in the evening, starting at 6 PM and repeated every 30 minutes, so you can come here after spending quality time at Burj Khalifa. What’s best is that It’s free to watch! Make sure you don’t miss it.
For an elevated experience, try taking the Dubai Fountain Lake Ride while the lights and wellsprings are in action. The majestic spectacle will last in your memory forever.
- Location: Downtown Dubai – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: 5:45 PM to 11:30 PM
- Contact: +97148888888
- Dubai Fountain Lake Ride Ticket: starts at 68.25 AED, Book here
Dubai Mall
You may wonder why a shopping complex counts among the top places to visit in Dubai. Bear in mind that Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall globally, with over 1300 retail stores; that alone is enough reason to visit it at least once.
But that’s not all! From an Olympic-sized skating rink and aquarium to Kidzania, A giant reel cinema, stunning fountains and sculptures, and 200+ food outlets, the mall contains countless wow factors and entertainment options to keep you occupied for hours. No wonder it’s the ultimate paradise for all shopaholics, foodies and adventure enthusiasts.
It’s also easily accessible within a 20-minute walk from the Dubai Mall Metro Station and in close vicinity to Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountains.
- Location: Downtown Dubai – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: 10 AM to 12 AM Daily
- Contact: +971800382246255
Dubai Miracle Garden
If you love nature and art, you have to give Dubai Miracle Garden a go. The vibrant oasis features over 150 million flowers, organized into enchanting floral creations that almost seem like a fantasy. The beautiful life-size planes, Disney characters and castles, heart-shaped arches, umbrella passages, the giant floral clock, the alluring lake park and more, each structure is a delightful treat for the eyes, designed creatively with multi-coloured blooms.
You can walk through the charming ambience, soak in the lovely scents and click those Instagram-worthy dreamy pictures. A favourite tourist hotspot and one of the best places to visit in Dubai, especially if you’re travelling with children and family.
- Location: Street 3 – Al Barsha – Al Barsha South – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: Mon-Fri 9 AM to 9 PM, Sat-Sun 9 AM to 11 PM
- Contact: +97144228902
- Ticket: 95 AED for Adults, 80 AED for Kids 3 to 12 years old, Book online here.
Museum of The Future
A space of futuristic wonders and ideologies, The Museum of Future is another incredible landmark that you should see while you’re in Dubai. It’s known for its innovative, astonishing and high-tech exhibitions, hosted on seven different floors, that give you a glimpse of what the times ahead would look like in terms of technologies.
Boasting super-advanced architecture, the torus-shaped building structure itself is one of a kind, having many 3-D parts and Glass windows engraved with Arabic Poem Patterns all over. Although beautiful to watch all day, the exterior patterns look even more glorious when lit at night. If you like to explore cool sci-fi stuff, the Future Museum is not to miss out on.
- Location: 67CP+H4Q – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Trade Centre – Trade Centre 2 – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: Mon-Sun 9:30 AM to 8:30 PM
- Contact: +9718002071
- Ticket: Starts at 149 AED, Book online here
La Perle By Dragone
Hosted at Al-Habtoor City in Dubai, La Perle is the perfect gateway for those who cherish live theatre productions. Themed on the cultural history of UAE, the permanent acrobatic show will leave you awe-struck with its jaw-dropping aerial and aqua stunts, performed by talented artists.
The experience is further enhanced by surprising technological effects. It’s among the best recreational places to visit in Dubai and is a complete package of cultural entertainment for visitors. You can book from Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum or VIP packages, with special discounts in summer.
- Location: Al Habtoor City – 260 Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: Mon-Fri 9 AM to 9 PM, Sat-Sun 9 AM to 11 PM
- Contact: +97144370001
- Ticket: Starts at 274 AED, Book online here
Dubai Creek & Old Souks
If you wish to enjoy the true historical side of Dubai, there cannot be a better spot than Dubai Creek (a river/water stream separating Deira from modern Bur Dubai). It’s the old commercial hub of the city where you can observe the actual lifestyle of regular locals, unlike the spoiled elite Arabs you often see in advertisements.
Start with taking 1 AED traditional abra boat ride and cruise along the town’s ancient quarter. Stop by the traditional marketplaces in Deira, the iconic Gold Souk and Spice Souks, and haggle for the staple Arab spices, gold, fabrics and much more. You’ll get to explore many antique, unique and quality regional products here.
The abra boat has multiple stations and offers different routes along the Creek. We recommend taking the ones leading to cultural souks for a fun day full of shopping and adventure.
- Location: 777V+V5R – Dubai Creek – Dubai – United Arab Emirates – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: Open 24 hours (Abra 5 AM to 12 AM Daily)
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
While you’re along Dubai Creek, Al Fahidi (previously known as Al Bastakiya/ Bastakia) is another excellent place we suggest visiting if you have enough time. It’s a small heritage neighborhood that reflects the gentle past of the city with its preserved Arabian architecture, artworks and cultural exhibits.
You’ll find narrow streets lined with traditional restored houses – made with sandstones, gypsum, wood and teak- featuring open courtyards and wind towers that were used back in time for cooling purposes.
It’s also home to several famous museums and art galleries, including the Dubai Museum, Coffee Museum, Coins Museum, Majils Gallery, XVA Gallery, and Alserkal Cultural Foundation, among many others. Not to mention the quaint cafes serving mouthwatering regional delicacies. In short, if you want to walk straight into 19th-century Emirati life, Al Fahidi is surely one of the top places to visit in Dubai for you.
- Location: Al Fahidi – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: Mon-Sun 7 AM to 8 PM
- Contact: +97180033222
Dubai Dolphinarium
If you’re looking for the best places to visit in Dubai with kids, pick Dubai Dolphinarium right away. It hosts the first and only 45-minute Dolphin & Seal Show of the UAE, showcasing the synchronized swimming and acrobatic abilities of beautiful marine creatures with heartwarming spectacles.
The educational insights, trainers’ interactions and photo sessions with dolphins make the entire show much more exciting and thrilling, especially for the little ones. There’s a reason why it pops up as a popular family-friendly attraction everywhere.
The aquarium also offers the Creek Park Exotic Bird Show and Swim with Dolphins program for those wanting a more interactive adventure.
- Location: Riyadh Street, Inside the Creek Park Gate 1 – Dubai Dolphinarium Building – Umm Hurair 2 – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: Wed-Mon 9 AM to 7 PM, Tue Closed (Dolphin & Seal Show: 11 AM, 2 PM, 5 PM)
- Contact: +97143369773
- Tickets: 99 AED for adults, 49 AED for kids aged 2 to 11, Book online here
Find special discounted offers for online purchases here.
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Comprising a 10 million litre tank with over 140 marine species, including sharks, rays, giant groupers and more, The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo on the Dubai Mall’s ground floor invites you to a mesmerizing Underwater adventure like never before.
Walking through the beautiful tunnel, you can watch and admire the diverse sea animals closely. The venue also offers many animal encounters, feeding and diving activities, where you can enjoy the magical feel of touching and connecting with the fascinating creatures in person. It should come as no surprise that it made it to our list of top places to visit in Dubai.
- Location: Floor L2, Dubai Mall, Dubai, UAE
- Timings: Mon- Fri 10 AM to 11 PM, Sat-Sun: 10 AM to 12 AM
- Contact: 800-38224-6255
- Regular Pass: 199 AED, Book online here
The Lost Chamber Aquarium
If you happen to reside at the Atlantis Palm Hotel, make sure you don’t miss the Lost Chamber Aquarium, one of the top tourist places to visit in Dubai. Built on an Atlantis theme, it hosts over 65,000 sea species in a giant 11 million-litre glowing tank, giving you the perfect aesthetic backdrop for your Instagram posts.
Discover sharks, jellyfish, rays and other adorable fishes majestically swimming around at 21 exhibits or book snorkeling, dividing or underwater yoga for more immersive journeys close to nature. Entry is free for all the tourists staying in the hotel.
- Location: 44J9+V7P Atlantis, The Palm – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: Mon-Sun 10 AM to 9 PM
- Contact: +97144261040
- Ticket: 135 AED, Book online here
Grand Mosque Dubai
Renowned as one of the world’s biggest Mosques, The Grand Mosque Dubai (Grand Bur Dubai Masjid) is also counted among the best places to visit in Dubai, both by locals and tourists. Located in Bur Dubai, between the textile souk and Dubai Museum, it boasts Islamic-themed architectural work, includes 9 large and 45 small domes, Dubai’s tallest minaret (70 meters) and has a capacity for 1200 worshipers. It is regarded as one of the most beautiful mosques in town, and it is great to enjoy a peaceful time while exploring Islamic history.
However, note that proper dress code is required. The Dubai Islamic Information Center also offers special Free walk-in tours for people of all races from Sundays to Thursdays, 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM every week. Visitors are greeted with sweets and tea, given introductory Islamic booklets and guided around the mosque. Bookings can be done on their website here.
- Location: 47th Street – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Contact: +971800600
- Entry: Free
Beaches (Kite Beach, La Mer Beach)
Apart from its mind-boggling constructions, Dubai is also pretty famous for its outstanding beaches, which are an essential addition to your tour itinerary. Among these, the two top choices we recommend are Kite Beach and La Mer Beach, which are situated a short distance from downtown.
Now, which one will suit you the most depends on your personal preference. If you fancy a livelier environment, the white sand Kite beach, hosting kayaking, boat paddling, kite-surfing and other activities, will be more up to your alley. It also includes a few eating joints to feast on after a thrilling day.
La Mer Beach, on the other hand, is a bit smaller and has a calmer ambience, including tons of cafes and restaurants from around the world, with a waterpark and a cinema. So, it could be a better option if you just want to stroll and enjoy a relaxing dinner by the seaside.
- Location: Kite Beach: Umm Suqeim 1, Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai, UAE, La Mer Beach: Jumeirah 1 – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: 10 AM to 10 PM daily
- Contact: Kite: +97143173999, La Mer: +971800637227
Dubai Frame
Dubai Frame is a recently constructed monument in Zabeel Park that has quickly earned a reputation as one of the best places to visit in Dubai. Covered in stunning gold and blue patterns, it’s a 150-meter-tall architectural structure shaped like a giant picture frame, positioned in a way to allow you to see the old Dubai on one side and the modern city areas full of mighty high-rises on the other.
The vertical parts act as elevators that take you to the observation deck at the top, which extends to the entire horizontal length and includes glass- floors to provide visitors with an enchanting view of the town beneath. If you can, try visiting at sunset time, so you can observe how the city looks day and night simultaneously.
- Location: Zabeel Park Jogging Track – Za’abeel – Al Kifaf – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: 9 AM to 9 PM Daily
- Contact: +971800900
- Ticket: 50 AED for adults, 20 AED for 3-12 years children, Book online here
Global Village
One of the most hyped places to visit in Dubai, the global village-themed park takes you on a cultural journey to various countries around the globe, with dedicated pavilions showcasing each region’s specialties. As the name indicates, the idea is to give international exposure to all the residents and visitors in the heart of Dubai, and with so many ethnicities around, you genuinely feel that the entire world is within your reach.
From diverse cuisines and shopping products to beautifully choreographed dance shows and events, there are so many different and new things to try that browsing them all in one day would be no less than a challenge. There’s a reason why it continues to be a top entertainment spot for families and solo travelers. The entry ticket is economical, but if you plan on shopping a lot, we recommend stepping in with a big budget.
- Location: 38C5+F57 – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: Sun-Wed 4 PM to 12 AM, Thu-Sat 4 PM to 12 AM
- Contact: +971800900
- Entry Ticket: 22.5 AED weekday, 27 AED any day, Book online here
Ski Dubai
While it seems hard to imagine a snow resort in the middle of a melting desert, kudos to the Ski Dubai team, who has made the miracle a reality. Located at the Mall of Emirates, it’s an indoor snow park where you can engage in snowboarding and skiing at -4 °C and even make adorable penguin friends. Snow rides like slides, tubes, and chair lifts are also available for non-skiers.
There’s also a café inside serving hot chocolates to warm you up after playing in the cold air. One ticket grants you a 2-hour stay at this winter wonderland, one of the best family-friendly places to visit in Dubai, especially for those who love snowfalls.
- Location: Mall of Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Rd, Al Barsha, Al Barsha 1, Dubai, UAE
- Timings: Mon – Thu 10 AM to 11 PM, Fri 10 AM to 12 AM, Sat-Sun 9 AM to 12 AM
- Contact: +97144094000
- Ticket: Starts at 220 AED, Book online here
Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is another must-add to your list of places to visit in Dubai. It’s a luxurious and beautiful waterfront district in New Dubai, lined with high-end restaurants, smart cafes, posh malls and premium fashion brands. In addition, activities like yacht cruising and jet skiing along the artificial marina are also available.
Surrounded by sparkling high-rises, It’s the perfect romantic getaway, beckoning you to stroll hand in hand on a 7km promenade with magnificent coastal spectacles that become even more magical at night.
- Location: Dubai Marina, Dubai, UAE
- Best Visiting Time: 4 PM to 10 PM
Wild Wadi and Aqua-venture Water Park
One thing you should not miss in Dubai is the incredible waterparks, and if you have to pick only one, we suggest choosing either Aqua Venture or Wild Wadi.
The best option is undoubtedly Aqua Venture, the biggest waterpark not only in the Middle East but the entire world. It features over 150 record-breaking slides for all ages, each with a unique thrill level that’s rare to find anywhere else. Additionally, present attractions include dolphin encounters, the aquarium dive, swimming, paddling, lost chamber aquarium visits, food outlets and more. In short, an ideal venue to have a summer blast with your family.
Wild Wadi Water Park also pops up among the best entertaining places to visit in Dubai. It offers several invigorating rides and slides, with 80km/h Jumeirah Sceirah, the heart-pounding tantrum alley being the most famous. There are also interactive play structures for small visitors with countless water activities, including Action River and Juha’s Dhow & Lagoon. Coupled with 4 onsite dining and gift shops, it’s a great entertainment spot for adults and kids alike.
Other waterparks you can find in Dubai include Jungle Bay, Legoland and Splash Land.
- Location: Aqua Venture: Atlantis The Palm – Crescent Rd – Dubai – UAE
Wild Wadi: Jumeirah St – opp. Burj Al Arab – Umm Suqeim – Umm Suqeim 3 – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: Aqua Venture 9:15 AM to 6 PM daily, Wild Wadi 10 AM to 6 PM Daily
- Contact: Aqua Venture +97143484444, Wild Wadi +97143484444
- Ticket: Aqua Venture: start at 320 AED, Book online here, Wild Wadi: 195 AED/ Adult, 175AED/Child for UAE residents, 295AED/Adult, 245AED/Child for non-UAE residents, Book online here
Palm Jumeirah
If you’re seeking a rather luxurious day out, Palm Jumeirah can be your ultimate haven. The palm-shaped island is one of the most popular places to visit in Dubai, with countless offerings to indulge in, from posh hotels, resorts, and restaurants to theme parks, beaches, and malls. Enjoy your tour with thrilling rides and mouthwatering foods, and conclude with a quieter evening by the beach, catching the spectacular sunset vistas.
Those with more adventurous souls can board a monorail ride, giving sweeping views of the island, the Dubai skyline, and the sea, or enter the Aqua Venture waterpark with exhilarating water slides. The Pointe (scenic, relaxing arena with over 80 eateries and shops) and The Lost Chamber Aquarium (with over 65,000 marine species) are other popular tourist attractions in the area. It’s ideal to explore in groups, as something is engaging for every personality. However, be prepared to dedicate an entire day if you wish to see it all.
- Location: The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, UAE
- Timings: Open 24 hours (shops, malls and parks timings vary)
Burj Al Arab
The legendary sail-shaped building with the sea backdrop used to be synonymous with Dubai for so long that it has now become one of the most sought-after places to visit in Dubai among all newcomers. The world’s tallest 5-star hotel built on sand screams Arabian luxury at every step, featuring lavish suites, dazzling gold interiors and the most amazing and unique architecture. It also offers several opulent amenities, including food outlets, retail shops, a spa, a wellness center and more.
While booking a room can be heavy on the pocket, you can savor the experience by having the Golden Cappuccino at the UMA outdoor dining (199AED to 399 AED), which also allows you to catch mesmerizing Arabian Gulf spectacles from 25h floor. Even if you don’t go inside, you can admire the timeless marvel from the outside while chilling on the majestic public beach beside. You don’t come across such splendor and grandeur very often.
- Location: Umm Suqeim 3 – Dubai – UAE
- Timings: Check-in 3 PM, Check out 12 PM
- Contact: +97143017777
- Price: starts at 5684 AED/ night, Book online here
Desert/Desert Safaris
There’s no way we can complete our list of top places to visit in Dubai without mentioning the iconic Dubai desert. Appreciating the timeless golden sand dunes is a must, and Desert safari rides provide you the best opportunity to do so.
They include thrilling ridge bashing, customary camel rides, and the traditional Arab night with camping, food and belly dance performances, giving you a precise glimpse of the historic Emirati lifestyle amidst the sand vasts.
The desert safari company offers morning, evening, overnight and special events safari tours with different durations and prices for locals and foreigners. You can find all the details and book your preferred one at their official website.
- Ticket: Starts at 130 AED, Book online here,
- Office Location: 17, The Iridium Building 17 – Dubai – UAE
- Contact: +971502915301
- Timings: 9 AM to 10 PM daily
That sums up our suggestions for the best places to visit in Dubai. We’ve tried to cover top options in every category, from malls, museums and historical sites to waterparks and modern attractions.
Note that the list is not exhaustive, and there are many more exciting places in Dubai waiting to be discovered. Let us know if we’ve missed any of your favorite attractions in the comments below. Happy Travels!
FAQs:
What’s the best time to Visit Dubai?
The best time for Dubai tours is from November to April when the temperature drops to 20-33 degrees. However, you may experience higher prices due to peak season. If you’re watching the budget and can tolerate the heat, May and September can also work well for you.
How can I travel around Dubai?
Dubai metro trains and trams are the cheapest and most efficient way to move around the city, especially if you want to save money. They have stops at several popular attractions like Dubai Mall, Mall of Emirates, and Gold Souq. In addition, shared rides like Uber are also available.
What are the best family-friendly places to visit in Dubai?
These include water parks, Dubai Miracle Garden, Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Creek and many more, as mentioned above.
How many places can I visit on a 3-day tour in Dubai?
Conclusion
It depends, You can start with covering the downtown area (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountains), then visit historical areas along Dubai Creek (Al Fahidi region, Abra Boat, Spice and Gold Souqs) on the second day, followed by covering Palm Jumeirah and Aqua Venture Park on the third day.
