Category: Travel & Explore

Those flying in Premium Economy Class or Economy Class can have a one-night stay at Novotel World Trade Centre.

Emirates Airlines is offering its passengers free stays at some of Dubai’s best hotels for a limited period of time. In a statement, Dubai’s flagship carrier said that the offer applies to flights booked now through June 11 for travel from May 26 to August 31. Travellers can choose to visit Dubai or to make the city a stopover and continue on another Emirates flight to a different destination – but to qualify for the deal, travellers must spend a minimum of 24 hours in the city.

Passengers flying with Emirates in First or Business Class can book a complimentary two-night stay at the 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central, which is a five-star property that opened in December 2021. These passengers will also get to avail a chauffeur-drive service to and from the airport, the airlines announced.

On the other hand, those flying in Premium Economy Class or Economy Class can have a one-night stay at Novotel World Trade Centre. “Whether you’re staying for a while or just stopping over for at least 24 hours in Dubai, remember to keep a copy of your Emirates boarding pass to make the most of exciting offers and special discounts from our partners in the city and across the UAE,” Emirates said in the statement. To claim the offer, one needs to book flights before June 11, 2023, and travel before 31 August, 2023. The deal is available for those booking return flights from Emirates to Dubai, or making the city a stopover before a second Emirates Flight. Hotel rooms are offered on a first-come, first-serve basis.

Also, as per the press release, bookings must be made at least 96 hours before arrival through emirates.com, ticket officer, Emirates Call Centre, or participating travel agents. The airlines also said that the customers need to keep a copy of their Emirates boarding pass to make the most of special discounts and offers from flight partners in the city and across the United Arab Emirates (UAE).

Traveling to Dubai

Alternatively, you can fly with Etihad Airways into Abu Dhabi and then travel to Dubai by shuttle bus or taxi for an hour. Qatar Airways is an other choice. Before moving on to Dubai, they stop in Doha. Of course, you can also fly with US-based carriers.

The Ideal Seasons to Visit

Dubai is HUMID! I’m aware—duh. The “winter months”—which correspond to our winter months—are cooler, with peaks in the 80s and lows in the 60s. From November to March, this occurs. If you schedule your trip to Dubai during this time, be prepared for it to be busier and more expensive due to the weather conditions.

The Best Accommodations

In Dubai, there is no scarcity of lodging options, particularly luxurious lodging. You can also browse rental sites like Airbnb. Dubai should be initially viewed as a long strip while choosing the ideal location. If you’ve been to either, Las Vegas or Cancun, that’s how I would compare it.

The Burj Khalifa is situated near the Dubai Mall, which is also the most populated and central site. The Dubai Marina is at the opposite end, and the Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab are nearby. The Dubai airport and Old Dubai’s souks are on the exact opposite end of this “strip.” Jumeirah Beach, which spans the majority of this strip and is home to beach resorts, stores, and restaurants.

Traveling in Dubai

Like every major town and tourist destination, Dubai has a lot of traffic. Additionally, rush hour traffic exists. It’s important to know that the workweek in Dubai runs from Sunday through Thursday, with Friday and Saturday serving as the weekend working days. This has an effect on the amount of time it takes for a car or taxi to go between two locations. Weekends see a marked reduction in traffic congestion.

Taxis

Use a basic taxi cab rather than a luxurious Lexus taxi for the best deals. Ask the taxi driver what the cost would be to get from one place to another and check if the taxi has a meter.

Metro

Dubai’s Metro system is exceedingly hygienic and simple to use. Depending on the traffic, this can be your best option throughout the week and during peak hour. The trains run more often during the week.

Hop On-Off Buses

There are two methods accessible and it’s another way to view Dubai. Both are available for pickup from the Dubai Mall and offer unique routes which take you to all the major locations. As a result, if you choose to do it, start early on the day, go on a weekend, or get a multi-day pass.

Dress Code for Dubai

Many travelers to the United Arab Emirates find this to be stressful, especially women who are unsure about traveling to Dubai. Generally speaking, both visitors and expats dress casually. When dining in the restaurants at the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab, you should also be wearing closed-toe shoes, long skirts for women, and clothing that covers your shoulders.

What is the Cost of a Trip to Dubai?

They use the term “dirham” or AED, which stands for Arab Emirate Dirham. It may appear in advertisements as Dhs or DH. Conveniently, the dollar bills feature Arabic on one side and English on the other. Coins are also present.

You may convert money when you arrive at the airport, however we found that the malls offered a somewhat higher conversion rate. Additionally, there are many malls. The majority of locations only accept Mastercard or Visa when using American credit cards.

Food

The cuisine is wonderful and fresh! In Dubai, which is famed for its diverse food, you may get almost everything you desire to eat. The cuisine in Dubai has a strong Asian influence, notably Indian cuisine.

You shouldn’t anticipate seeing pork in the eateries since this is a Muslim region. Lamb, beef, chicken, and shellfish are all in good supply. Popular foods include shawarma (sliced meat served like a kebab), hummus, curries, basmati rice, and marinated whole fish (when visiting Dubai, I chose to eat a whole sea bass rather than a filet). Also highly popular are dates. They come in a wide variety, and you may find elegant date shops and date markets in malls. With Arabic coffee, give it a try.

Atlantis, The Palm

If you’ve ever seen photos of the Palm Jumeirah, you’ve probably spotted the Atlantis resort perched at the end. To visit the several islands that make up the Palm, we took the monorail to Atlantis. Atlantis, on the other hand, was a big hotel/resort with people all over it. It took ages to find Saffron and there were security officers making sure people were not entering areas for the guests.

But if you enjoy staying in hotels with high ceilings, designer stores, lots of restaurants, and throngs of people, you’ll adore Atlantis.

A Day Trip to Abu Dhabi

If you’re looking for locations to travel from Dubai, Abu Dhabi is an excellent alternative because it’s only a 1 to 1 1/2 hour drive away, depending on traffic. Abu Dhabi is home to a number of well-known landmarks, such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Yas Island, and Emirates Palace. You may choose a daily public shuttle bus, a taxi, a vehicle rental, or a private tour if you decide to visit Abu Dhabi for the day from Dubai.

The Dubai theme parks offer you a fantastic opportunity to get together with friends and family and enjoy a vacation amid tons of commotion and excitement while giving you a peek of the most entertaining metropolis in the world. Let’s take a deeper look at the reasons this is the only place you need to go for fun with your family.

1. Build A Lego Empire At LEGOLAND Dubai

Take part in thrilling rides at Legoland, where the LEGO block literally comes to life, and feel the thrills run down your spine. Your children can express their creativity by building lego constructions, driving cars, or navigating boats as you experience over 40 attractions and shows with a LEGO theme. As you watch the creation of Lego blocks, there is plenty to learn as well.

2. Luxurious Staycation At Lapita Hotel

Every crevice of this boutique hotel oozes comfort and luxury. The Lapita hotel is your best choice for an opulent break in Dubai thanks to its Polynesian style, gorgeous architecture, and lavish experience. Enjoy unlimited entry to the theme parks, delicious Polynesian food to tempt your taste buds, and a rooftop bar where you can let loose and sip sundowners while taking in the gorgeous sunset.

3. Enjoy Family Time

 

In the middle of the bustle and frenzy, Dubai Parks and Resorts’ theme park offers you a wonderful opportunity to enjoy family time and strengthen your relationships with your loved ones. The ideal place for family to feel connected is LEGOLAND® Dubai, where you are able to spend time with your young child while they work on building a Lego city!

4. At BOLLYWOOD PARKSTM Dubai, revive Bollywood drama

 

If you are a die-hard Bollywood fan, now is your chance to experience even more drama at the BOLLYWOOD PARKSTM Dubai! Get up close and personal with your favorite superheroes from the Hindi drama as you relive your favorite moments from classic Bollywood films. At exceptional musical events, take a tip or two from well-known Bollywood tunes like Dabang and enjoy a musical extravaganza.

5. At MOTIONGATETM Dubai, enjoy an extravagant Hollywood experience.

If Bollywood isn’t your thing, there is more drama to satisfy your needs. That’s right—to help you live out your Hollywood fantasies, MOTIONGATETM Dubai Theme Park is home to three motion picture studios, including Lionsgate, Columbia Pictures, and DreamWorks Animation. Relive your childhood as you team up with the Ghostbusters to defend New York City, make pals with the blue Smurfs, or pick up some ‘Step-Up’ movie-style moves. Visit actual filming locations to spark your interest in the craft of filmmaking, especially if you’re a movie buff. In addition to this, it offers thrilling rides and rollercoasters including the Hunger Games Bullet Train, Madagascar Mad Pursuit, and Zombieland Blast Off.

6. Kids Frenzy At LEGOLAND Water Park

 

If you felt that this wasn’t enough, theme parks provide additional activities for youngsters. Water babies and toddlers who adore sliding down water slides and dipping their toes in the pool will find nirvana at the LEGOLAND® Water Park. Your children will enjoy endless fun and take home unforgettable memories thanks to the water slides and pools.

7. Go On A Nature Trail At Riverland

 

The Riverland offers you the ideal opportunity to unwind and relax in a peaceful environment. Enjoy themed dining at this shopping center that connects all the theme parks with four separate themed zones—The French Village, Boardwalk, India Gate, and The Peninsula—and many restaurants and retail establishments. Families can get together here to rekindle their relationships with one another and the natural world around them.

 

The biggest travel advice website in the world, Trip Advisor, revealed Dubai’s top international position at its annual Travelers’ Choice Best of the Best Destination Awards 2023. In order to realize the goals of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Vice President and the Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, who wants to make Dubai the most visited and livable city in the world, significant efforts have been made to support the city’s thriving economy and tourism ecosystem.

For the second year in a row, Dubai was named the top worldwide destination in the Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice Awards, solidifying its status as the most popular tourist destination in the world. The accolades reinforce the objective of the recently unveiled Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which is to solidify Dubai’s position as one of the top three tourist and business destinations in the world. Millions of travelers from all over the world who offer their honest and unbiased reviews or comments on locations, activities, and experiences have the unique ability to choose the winners of the Trip Advisor Travelers’ Choice Awards. Over the course of a year, from November 1st, 2021, to October 31st, 2022, travelers independently reviewed and rated a variety of destinations. The top attractions there are listed below.

Over the years, Dubai has developed into one of the most renowned and well-liked tourist destinations in the world, luring people from all walks of life to its shores to take advantage of what the “must visit” location has to offer.

Official statistics have not yet been made public, but data from Statista indicates that more than 11.95 million individuals traveled to the emirate in 2014, up from 11.12 million in 2013, showing that Dubai’s appeal as a tourism destination has increased.

It’s not surprise that visitors throng to its beaches to view its great efforts and achievements because the area is known for superlatives like the greatest building and largest mall in the world, but what draws people returning year after year?

Hotels

Dubai is home to some of the biggest and most luxurious hotels in the world, offering visitors five-star pleasures while they’re there.

Depending on what they are looking for, tourists have the option of lodging in different parts of the emirate, so a person might visit the region repeatedly and yet learn something new.

Choose a hotel near the water to enjoy golden sands every day, or stay in Ras Al Khaimah to enjoy a spectacular landscape of rocky mountains and a stunning coastline.

The abundance of hotels in Dubai is unquestionably one of the main factors contributing to its popularity with both new and recurring guests.

Cosmopolitan lifestyle mixed with local culture

The emirate can provide tourists with the ideal fusion of a modern city and traditional elements of the local way of life. irrespective of where you go in Dubai, whether it be to see amazing fireworks displays or visit local markets, there is a feeling of vitality and high spirits.

Dubai has lots to offer everyone, including a variety of entertainment options and traditional restaurants providing regional cuisine.

Additionally, the emirate’s vibrant and energetic souks provide visitors a true flavor of traditional Dubai and give them the chance to practice haggling for gifts for themselves or loved ones back home.

World-class shopping

As was already noted, Dubai is home to the largest mall in the world, so it would be foolish not to include the emirate’s world-famous shopping options. The malls are up-to-date, air-conditioned, and provide the newest trends.

You can visit the gold markets, which provide platinum, diamonds, and occasionally silver at lower prices than you can get in the UK, in addition to finding your favorite and well-known brands there.

There’s plenty to do

What else in the world can you go sand boarding one second and skiing on actual snow the next? People frequently visit Dubai since there is no way to experience everything it has to offer in just one trip.

In addition to a host of other activities, tourists can learn about the emirate’s history and culture, ride camels in the desert, swim with dolphins, spend the day at a waterpark, go on a hot air balloon journey, and much more.

Many spectacular swimming pools in Dubai reach unprecedented depths and heights. The world’s highest infinity pool at Address Beach Resort and the highest 360-degree infinity pool in the world, Aura Skypool, both offer stunning city views. In addition, Deep Dive Dubai has entered the world’s deepest diving pool into the Guinness Book of Records. At 60.02 meters, it allows thrill-seekers to plunge into another universe.

In addition, Dubai is teeming with fitness-related events, yoga courses, and destination spas that can be found all around the city. These consist of a variety of luxurious spas and wellness opportunities offered in opulent locations like Blended Wellness at Dukes Hotel and the spa at Anantara World Islands.

One of the biggest and most opulent spas in the city, Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray has a Turkish hammam, Thalassotherapy pools, and sub-zero snow rooms. The spa, which is located in the opulent Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on Palm Jumeirah, offers a wide range of services that are influenced by traditional Ottoman therapies and local pampering customs. Indulgent rose oils combined with night primrose oil, shea butter, and Damascus rose oil are used in the “Rose Bliss” body massage as part of a luxurious ritual to heal and repair.

You could imagine that a trip to Dubai is comparable to going to Spain, Mexico, or Thailand given that it is the most well-liked tourism destination in the Middle East. In many ways, that is true—you will be surrounded by kind people, delectable cuisine, and gorgeous sunshine—but there is a crucial distinction you must take into account when making travel arrangements. Although Dubai’s laws are a little more permissive than those in the UAE (United Arab Emirates), the UAE is a Muslim nation that upholds Islamic law, so it’s crucial to be aware of what is and is not acceptable behavior when visiting in order to prevent offending anyone or accidentally breaching the law and landing in jail. Consequently, without further ado, here are our suggestions for maintaining

Things you shouldn’t do in Dubai

Get wasted in public.In Dubai, where the majority of the population is Muslim, alcohol drinking is prohibited, as it is in many other countries in the region, including Egypt. In licensed pubs, restaurants, and hotels, as in many other Muslim nations, including Egypt, non-Muslims are permitted to purchase alcohol. Even if you are not Muslim, it is against the law to behave unruly in public, so take care not to have too many.

Take pictures of people without getting their express consent.It is considered impolite to take a picture of anyone without their consent; this rule is especially true when it comes to photographing local ladies.

Swear. Cussing and using filthy language are prohibited, and a number of foreigners have found themselves in hot water for using vulgar language in front of a police officer working undercover. People, keep it clean.

Slur Islam. The most harmful thing you can do in a Muslim nation is probably this. Regardless of your own views on Islam, refrain from making any statements in public that might be construed as offensive. If you have strong feelings about Islam, keep them to yourself because insulting the religion is punishable by harsh sanctions.

Be proud of your homosexuality .It is terrible to mention, but homosexuality is still prohibited in the United Arab Emirates. You might get into a lot of problems if you make any public shows of affection between people of the same (or opposite, if you’re not married) sex. Cross-dressing is prohibited as well.

Employ your left hand .The left hand is utilized for personal cleanliness in Muslim culture, so it may appear strange that this rule applies. Never extend a handshake or a greeting to someone with your left hand, and under no circumstances should you be seen eating with it.

It’s fun to travel to Dubai any time of year, but June is especially enjoyable. Dubai attracts tourists from all over the world because of its opulent appearance. Winter is ideal for seeing the city because of the lovely weather, but June through August is also a good season. Dubai is renowned for its searing sun and heat in addition to its opulent city life. Luckily, there are enjoyable ways to make use of this heat.If you go to Dubai in June, you can take advantage of the opportunity to experience the opulent resorts, water sports, and shopping events.

Dubai in June

Dubai in June should ideally stay warm and dry. Additionally, the temperature reaches 38 degrees. Fortunately, it lowers to almost 26 oC at night. The humidity is still at a moderate level (26%). Locals experience approximately 12 hours of sunlight each day, and there is no monthly rainfall.

 Activities to try in Dubai in June

1. Ski Dubai

When you’ve had enough of the oppressive heat and burning sun, bring the whole family to Ski Dubai. It is a well-known indoor activity you can try to beat the heat; it is situated in Dubai’s Mall of Emirates. Ski Dubai is a sizable area completely coated in actual ice that will instantly allay any heat-related angst. It is the ideal location to visit in June in Dubai due to the weather. A snow dragon is lit up. Due to the chance to interact with penguins, your time at Ski Dubai will be unforgettable. Both children and adults can enjoy themselves here just as much.

2. Dubai Mall Ice Rink

Another well-liked indoor tourist destination to check out in Dubai in June is the renowned Dubai Mall Ice Rink. Those who enjoy skating have access to a massive ice skating rink that is made of actual ice. Well, the idea itself is real. Disco sessions are staged with vibrant lights to add intrigue, making them a memorable aspect of your trip to Dubai.

3. Museum of Illusions

The Museum of Illusions is one of the indoor attractions you should enjoy if you’re in Dubai in June to avoid the heat. A museum is a fascinating place that draws countless visitors because of the amazing objects kept there. Science, antiquities, or history are the first things that come to mind when we discuss museums. Dubai, however, is home to several odd attractions. This museum, which is located in Al Seef, offers some incredible alternatives, such as an infinite chamber. Your reflections will either be too little or too large in this area. In a similar vein, don’t overlook Master Illusions. Grand illusions and optical illusions.

4. Skydiving iFly

I Fly is a vertical wind tunnels where you may attempt sky diving. It is the first 10 meters long indoors skydiving zone in Dubai. This activity, which defies gravity, is carried out under the guidance of professionals. To fully enjoy the experience, you will receive eye protection and a wind suit.

5. Smash Room .

Smashing things at the renowned Smash Room is a great way to release rage. Smash Room is for you if you enjoy smashing things when you’re upset, enraged, or disappointed. Another excellent indoor activity to do in Dubai during the summer (June). You have the chance to smash various objects, including plates, printers, computers, and other things.

6. Splash Island Aquatic Center

If you’re wondering what the weather is like in Dubai in June, it’s hot, muggy, and fairly steamy. Fortunately, the summer in Dubai is all about cooling off in the water, and Splash Island Waterpark is the place to go. Bring your family, especially the younger members. Splash Island Waterpark is an aqua park with numerous indoor activities that is temperature-controlled.

 

7. VR Park

A prominent indoor theme park known as VR Park offers virtual reality experiences. The VR park is a great amusement destination for youngsters in Dubai in June because it is all about entertaining activities. Some games will transport you to a distant planet, while others allow you to go through time to the future.

8. Lost Chambers Aquarium

Who wouldn’t want to learn more about the aquatic life found beneath the sea? You must visit Lost Chambers Aquarium to learn more about that. A great variety of unusual flowers and seaweeds can be seen. The Lost Chambers Aquarium’s splendor draws visitors to Dubai from all over the world.

 

While Dubai itself is undoubtedly not a hidden treasure, very few people are aware of its less glitzy side. The metropolis of soaring buildings and opulent stores is also a city rich in tradition and history. In favor of contemporary corporate hubs and a vibrant nightlife, its introvert side has been rather unfairly disregarded. You may go the traditional route and visit the city’s not-so-traditional museums if you want to really experience Dubai. You’ll not only brush up on your historical knowledge, but you’ll also discover what makes this city unique. Continue reading and get prepared to pack your bags to learn about the top museums in Dubai.

Dubai museum

Understanding this region of the world’s history is required to do so. The Dubai Museum is a great starting point for both novices and history buffs.

The Al Fahidi Fort, regarded as the oldest structure in Dubai, is home to the main museum for the United Arab Emirates. With its walls and towers, the fort, which was built in 1787, used to guard the town. However, for the past 50 years, it has preserved centuries of history by welcoming intrepid travelers from all over the world into its buildings. The museum, despite its modest size, takes you on a 3000 year trip from the nomadic Bedouin tribes to the Dubai you are familiar with today.

Etihad Museum

Although the name Etihad certainly makes you visualize airplanes, this Arabic word actually means union, and that is exactly what you can expect to discover in this incredibly contemporary-looking museum.The United Arab Emirates’ history is told in the Etihad Museum, including the historical moments that gave rise to the nation and the individuals that shaped it. This museum in Dubai offers engaging interactive audio-visual tours, just like the majority of them do.

The seven pillars that make up the museum’s manuscript-like structure stand in for the pens used to sign this important document. Having said that, be warned that Dubai’s mesmerizing, gravity-defying architecture and culture have the capacity to seduce you and tempt you to move here. If you choose to make this amazing location your home, be sure to fully understand how different this city is and how that might impact your lifestyle.

Heritage Village

When you’ve had it with contemporary Dubai, think about going to Heritage Village to see what daily life was like in the old Dubai. In this so-called living museum, which is bordered by old mud homes and a 200-year-old mosque, visitors can take part in the traditional Dubai lifestyle by consuming local cuisine and watching arts and crafts being manufactured live.

Naif museum

The Naif Museum is the ideal location for those who are constantly searching for unusual and distinctive places. The museum, which is housed in a fort that formerly served as a police station and a prison, depicts the development of the city’s legal system. Given that Dubai’s police force is one of the best in the world, learning about its origins is, to put it mildly, fascinating. You can observe how everything changed throughout the course of roughly 100 years, from jail facilities to clothing and weapons.

Coffee museum

Visit the Coffee Museum if you can’t fathom your life without coffee. You can learn more about how coffee bewitched the entire world, beginning with the Arabs, in this charming yet odd location. You can expect to witness some ancient brewing techniques, grinders, pots, and roasters inside, but your senses of smell and taste won’t be let down either. Various varieties of coffee will be available for you to sample, along with a taste of the famed Arabic hospitality. If you still want more, you may visit the library inside the museum to look through old books about (nearly) everyone’s preferred caffeinated beverage.

Pearl museum

Most people believe that Dubai’s wealth was acquired through the oil industry. Although it’s not incorrect, the city once depended on its pearling industry, and this museum pays tribute to those days. The National Bank of Dubai’s corporate offices is where the museum is situated. Sultan Al Owais’ collection once included the beautiful pearls you will be allowed to see on exhibit. Although there is no entrance fee, guests must go through a few security checks in case somebody tries to smuggle something shiny out.

 

Looking for thing things to do in Dubai? Beyond the skyscrapers and shopping malls, there are many Dubai attractions that will surprise you. Albeit, the malls, and skyscrapers are very impressive. From desert adventures to cultural encounters, beach escapes, and luxury experiences, Dubai has it all! Dubai is the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates and is one of the most exciting cities in the Middle East to visit.

Dubai is a city of the future, to say the least. Dubai has the world’s tallest building, the world’s tallest hotel, and the world’s tallest residential building. It houses the largest shopping mall in the world, the world’s largest aquarium, and the second-largest man-made marina on earth. Dubai is a city that people should see once in their lifetime but there are plenty of things to do in Dubai that will surprise you beyond the megacity malls and skyscrapers. Dubai has beaches, desert safaris, adventure, and activities. We think that Dubai is definitely a city built for the future of tourism. It is leading the way with seven-star and other luxury hotels attached to super malls where families can do everything they want on their vacations without leaving the complex.

But there is much more to Dubai than just the shopping and the manufactured experiences. We spent a week exploring and found that there were plenty of things to do in Dubai that were actually entertaining, exciting, and a lot of fun.

1. Go Up to The Burj Khalifa

Whenever we have the chance to go somewhere high, we take it and you cannot miss going up the world’s tallest building for a view of the city. The Burj Khalifa is at the top of all Dubai attractions. It is located in the heart of the city with gorgeous views. Take the high-speed elevator up 160 stories to see awe-inspiring views of Dubai. Be warned though, it’s crowded and once you’ve had a look at the city, there’s not a lot more to do up there. It is that famous building that Tom Cruise climbed during Mission Impossible and while standing outside the viewing platform, you gain a lot of respect for the man. That takes a lot of nerve. While the experience isn’t as good as other high-rise attractions we’ve taken around the world, you can’t visit Dubai without going up the elevator. Get your skip-the-line tickets to the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors of the Burj Khalifa. Zip past the security lines for optimal timing. This tour offers easy cancellation within 24 hours of departure .The Burj Khalifa doesn’t have the wow factor of Toronto’s CN Tower or even the Calgary Tower glass floor but if there is one thing to do in Dubai it is ticking off the bucket list of going up the world’s tallest building.

2. Explore The Dubai Marina

Downtown Dubai isn’t much of a walking city, but when you make your way to the Dubai Marina, it’s your chance to stroll along the promenade. There are coffee shops and restaurants surrounding the second-largest man-made marina in the world where you can book boat tours and dinner cruises from here. It was definitely our favourite place to hang out in the evening in Dubai.

Like all things in Dubai, it too is surrounded by mammoth skyscrapers and shopping malls that take your breath away. For one of the more thrilling things to do in Dubai, make your way to the Amwaj Towers to take a zip line over the marina to the Dubai Marina Mall. Dubai does everything bigger and better and this zipline is one of the steepest and fastest in the world. Reaching speeds of 80 km an hour, you’ll soar through the air for one kilometer.

This breakfast yacht tour is a great way to experience the decadence of travel in Dubai at an affordable price where you’ll enjoy a morning cruise with breakfast. (also available for a sunset bbq cruise). You’ll sail from the marina to Blue Water Island, the Dubai Eye, and views of Jumeira Beach, The Palm Jumeirah, and the Burj Al Arab.

3.To the Beach

Dubai has fabulous sandy beaches. Like all beach destinations, there are a lot of watersports to choose from and many beach chairs or free patches of sand to set up shop for the day to catch some rays. The famous Burj Al Arab towers over a public beach. If you are rich enough to stay there, go for it! It’s Dubai’s most luxurious accommodation being a 7-star hotel.

4. Dubai Mall: Explore

I know we didn’t rave about the malls in our opening paragraph, but it is a spectacle to see them. In fact, the malls are definitely the top Dubai attractions to add to your list. The Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall in the world with so much more than clothing stores and boutiques.The Dubai Mall houses the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo where you can even go diving with sharks, there’s a skating rink, waterfalls, and top-name brand clothing outlets where you can get lost for the day. You can even have a shark or may You can even take a gondola ride around Dubai lake just like you are transported to Venice.

5. Mall of Emirates

If you go to the Mall of the Emirates, you can go snowboarding or skiing at Ski Dubai, catch a movie or do some shopping. There are malls galore in Dubai and many hotels offer free shuttles to visit them where you can freely spend your hard-earned money. One of the coolest things we saw before going to Dubai was Ski Dubai – an indoor ski resort. Coming from Canada, it is totally a novelty to be able to ski indoors.Dubai takes everything to the next level and the malls of Dubai have everything you could possibly want in a holiday destination. From skiing to ice skating, water parks, and even scuba diving in a massive fish tank, you name it, Dubai has thought of it. You never have to leave the mall! Plus, you can relax in air conditioning to escape the Dubai heat as the desert temperatures soar outside.

 

6. Dubai Fountain Show

Just like the Bellagio in Vegas, Dubai has its own waterfall show at the Dubai Fountain. Only the fountain show in Dubai is bigger and better making it the top of all fountain shows in the world. Make sure to add going to the Dubai fountain to your list of must-see Dubai attractions.

Each night a display of water and light runs for 10 minutes every half an hour until midnight. The songs, light show, and choreography change again and again so you never have to see the same show twice. Pick a seat and have a drink at one of the restaurants on the lake where the show is located or get there 10 minutes early for a front-row premium spot right at the fence. I really enjoyed the show myself.

7. Take a Scenic Flight

A scenic flight also offers amazing views of the Dubai skyline and the Persian Gulf coast. We found that Dubai was so spread out it was difficult to really take in the views of the skyscrapers from different vantage points, but a flight fixed that problem. Being on a scenic flight allowed me to see all of the magnificent modern architecture in the city.

8. Palm Jumeirah

Dubai is a city that’s definitely meant to be seen by air. A bird’s eye of The Palm Jumeirah is astounding. This engineering feat is difficult to comprehend as Dubai has built an extra 650km of coastline for its residents to work and play. There’s also a map of The World with hundreds of man-made islands waiting to be developed 14 km off the shore of Dubai. The Palm Jumeirah is a wonder of the modern world. This archipelago of islands juts out into the Persian Gulf and is completely man-made.

9.Aquaventure Waterpark

Everyone wants to catch a glimpse of Atlantis Dubai, but you don’t have to break the bank to stay there. Visitors can buy a pass to play in Dubai’s top-rated attraction. It is the world’s largest waterpark with world-record-holding waterslides for thrill-seekers, and it houses Dubai’s largest aquarium. Just make sure you DON’T swim with the dolphins. That’s not cool. The Lost Chambers Aquarium houses 65,000 marine animals.

Dubai Water Parks

Dubai is the epicenter of water parks. Perhaps it’s the hot Dubai heat or just the sheer amount of money that goes through the city, but each water park keeps getting bigger and better. Here are a few of the top water parks in Dubai.

• Wild Wadi – This is the original Dubai water park located beside Jumeirah Beach Hotel and Burj Al Arab
• Laguna Waterpark – Located on the beach in La Mer it Laguna Water Park has four zones for fun, relaxation, slides, surf and splash.

If you aren’t staying at the Atlantis, you can book this Speedboat tour to take in the skyline as you cruise along the Persian Gulf to see Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis Hotel, and Bluewater Island.

10. Wander Through The Souks

Dubai is a new city and it’s difficult to believe that there is somewhere that feels old, but the souks located in the old town actually do feel a lot like other souks we’ve visited in the Middle East. The Souks are divided up and if you take a tour of Dubai, you will easily be able to visit many Dubai attractions in the old city including the gold souk, and the spice souks, and pick up some fantastic souvenirs.The souks were fascinating to visit. They are busy and filled with shoppers. We were told that 20% of the world’s gold passes through the Gold Souk. I can only imagine how rich the people were walking these alleys. Get lost in the alleyways and streets that you can get lost in while shopping and exploring your way through a fast-disappearing Middle Eastern culture in Dubai.

11. Jumeirah Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is the only mosque open to non-Muslims in Dubai making it one of the top Dubai attractions. We visited this on an organized tour, but you can book one of the guided tours that happen daily at 10 and 2 pm. (It is closed on Fridays). Make sure you are properly dressed when visiting any mosque or place of worship keeping legs and shoulders covered.

 

12.Dubai Creek

Make sure to take the water taxi along Dubai Creek, it’s a great affordable way to explore the old part of town. Dubai Creek is divided into two parts, Deira and Bur Dubai.  We took a full-day tour of Dubai and it really allowed us to see a lot of the highlights of the city and the top Dubai attractions including this historic part of the city. Our favorite part of Dubai was going into the historic city.

From Mosques to the Dubai Heritage Village, to river cruises and Bazaars, it is a great place to spend an afternoon. This guided walking tour allowed us to discover Old Dubai, the Spice Souk, Bur Dubai Souk, and the Fahidi district. We also had the chance to take a boat ride an abra boat, the oldest transportation in Dubai.

13.Desert Conservation Reserve

If you want to see some wildlife, you are almost guaranteed to see Arabian oxen (oryx) gathering at the watering hole on a Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve Tour. There are plenty of camels walking through the desert (all are domesticated) but they are still amazing to see, and you may catch sight of birds of prey. The tour we took offered a birds of prey show in the desert. We didn’t love this part of it as we aren’t fans of birds in captivity, but we did love seeing the animals in their natural habitat.

14. Falcon Show

We did not enjoy the birds of prey show learning how they raise falcons. Using falcons is an extinct way of hunting in Dubai and is simply cruel to keep birds locked in a cage with a bag over their head simply for the pleasure of watching them catch pieces of meat that they throw in the air. It’s not my idea of fun and I wouldn’t recommend it. But the conservation area alone was fantastic.

15. Dubai Frame

Want to see the most Instagram Mable spot in Dubai? Be sure to check one of the newest Dubai attractions when you visit the city. The massive picture frame stands 500 feet tall and is the highest picture frame in the world. Guests can take an elevator up to the top for panoramic views of the city as they walk along the clear glass bridge that spans 313 feet. The tour includes stops at The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, and Atlantis plus the Blue Mosque. You’ll also explore the gold and spice souks allowing you to experience views of both the old side and new side of the city from the Dubai Frame.