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Dubai grew from a modest trading and pearling settlement on a saltwater creek into one of the most recognizable cities in the world in just a few decades. Oil revenue played a part, but trade, aviation, tourism and real estate drove its transformation. The result is a desert city of extreme contrasts, where record-breaking towers stand within reach of old wind-tower houses and busy souks.
The Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, offers observation decks high above the city, and the Dubai Fountain performs in the lake at its base beside the enormous Dubai Mall. The Museum of the Future, with its striking torus shape, focuses on ideas about technology and society. For a sense of older Dubai, the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood preserves restored courtyard houses, and a ride across the creek on a wooden abra leads to the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk in Deira. The Dubai Frame offers views of both old and new districts.
Dubai appeals to travelers who enjoy a polished, high-energy city with beaches, shopping and dining. Jumeirah's public beaches face the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab, while Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina, with its JBR beachfront, hold many of the resorts. Summers are extremely hot, so most visitors come between late fall and early spring.
WiserMap travel guideDubai United Arab Emirates Burj Khalifa and Creek SouksPlan a Dubai trip: Burj Khalifa, the old creek souks, Al Fahidi, Museum of the Future, beaches, desert dunes, where to stay, the best season and getting around.Read the guide
The world's tallest building at 828 meters, rising over Downtown Dubai. The At the Top observation decks on levels 124 and 125, and the higher SKY deck, give sweeping views over the city, the desert and the Gulf. Book a timed ticket ahead, and choose a slot just before sunset for day and night views.
Traditional wooden abra water taxis cross Dubai Creek between Bur Dubai and Deira for a tiny fare, as they have for generations. The short ride gives close views of dhows, old trading houses and busy waterfront life. Have small coins ready, sit near the edge, and ride again at dusk for the light.
Palm-shaped artificial island with luxury hotels, beach clubs and villas, crowned by Atlantis The Palm with the Aquaventure waterpark and aquarium. The View at The Palm observation deck shows the island's shape. Ride the Palm Monorail, or walk the boardwalk on the outer crescent for skyline views.
Dubai Mall is one of the world's largest malls, with the Dubai Aquarium, an ice rink and hundreds of shops. Outside, the Dubai Fountain performs water shows set to music on Burj Lake every half hour in the evening. The shows are free from the waterfront promenade, so arrive a few minutes early.
Traditional covered markets in Deira. The Gold Souk has hundreds of shops with windows full of gold and jewelry, and the Spice Souk sells saffron, frankincense, dried fruits and herbs. Prices for gold are set by weight, but bargaining on making charges and spices is expected. Go in the evening.
Torus-shaped museum on Sheikh Zayed Road covered with Arabic calligraphy, presenting immersive exhibits about space, climate, health and technology in a future world. A children's floor offers hands-on play. Tickets must be booked online for a set time, and they sell out on weekends and holidays.
Restored quarter on Dubai Creek with narrow lanes, coral and gypsum houses, and traditional wind towers. It holds small museums, galleries, cafes and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, which hosts cultural meals. Visit in the cooler morning, and combine it with the Al Fahidi Fort area.
Giant picture-frame shaped landmark in Zabeel Park, about 150 meters tall. A lift goes to a glass-floored sky bridge with views of old Dubai on one side and the modern skyline on the other. A gallery below shows the city's past and future. Visit late afternoon to see both day and lit-up views.
Long public beaches along Jumeirah, such as Kite Beach and Jumeirah Public Beach, face the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab hotel. They have soft sand, jogging tracks, showers and beach cafes. Swim only in the flagged areas with lifeguards, and avoid midday heat in summer by visiting in the early morning.
Dubai Marina is a canal district of skyscrapers with a waterfront walk lined with cafes and yachts. Next door, Jumeirah Beach Residence has The Walk and a busy beach facing Ain Dubai, the giant wheel on Bluewaters Island. Stroll the marina promenade in the evening when the towers light up.
Protected desert area southeast of the city with red dunes, Arabian oryx and gazelles, where licensed operators run eco-friendly safaris, camel rides and dinners under the stars. Many other safaris go to the Lahbab dunes. Choose a reputable licensed operator and avoid dune bashing if you get motion sick.
Large white stone mosque in the Jumeirah area, built in the medieval Fatimid style and one of the few mosques in Dubai open to non-Muslim visitors. Guided tours explain Islam and local customs, followed by questions and refreshments. Modest clothing is required, and women should bring a scarf.
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