About Dubai
Dubai turns fantasy into skyline. Ascend the world's tallest building, ski indoors while it's 40°C outside, dine on a submerged terrace, then ride 4x4s over golden dunes into a desert sunset.
Best time
November–March
Weather
Hot desert climate; scorching summers, warm winters
Airport
Dubai International (DXB)
Getting around
Get a Nol card for the metro, tram and buses
Experiences
Things to do in Dubai
1
Burj Khalifa observation decks
2
Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain
3
Desert safari with dune bashing
4
Old Dubai: Al Fahidi and Gold / Spice Souks
5
Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis
6
Jumeirah Beach and Burj Al Arab views
7
Museum of the Future
8
Dubai Frame
Budget travel
Free things to do in Dubai
Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain
Jumeirah Beach and Burj Al Arab views
Alserkal Avenue art district
Al Qudra desert lakes
Ripe Market
Mostly free or pay-what-you-like — always double-check opening times and any seasonal fees before you go.
Plan your trip
Suggested itinerary
- 1
Day 1
Modern Dubai
- Burj Khalifa
- Dubai Mall & Fountain
- Marina walk
- 2
Day 2
Old & desert
- Al Fahidi
- Gold Souk
- Abra ride
- Desert safari at sunset
Where to eat
Local favourites
- $
Al Ustad Special Kabab
Persian · Local institution since 1978
- $
Ravi Restaurant
Pakistani · Satwa canteen Dubai has loved for decades
- $$
Al Fanar Restaurant
Emirati · Traditional Emirati dishes in a heritage setting
- $
Bu Qtair
Seafood · Plastic-chair fish shack — locals' pick
Where to stay
Tourist favourites & top-rated
- $$$$
Burj Al Arab
Jumeirah · The sail-shaped icon
- $$$$
Atlantis The Royal
Palm Jumeirah · Ultra-luxury on the Palm
- $$$$
One&Only The Palm
Palm Jumeirah · Arabian-palace resort favourite
- $$
Rove Downtown
Downtown · Top-rated mid-range near the Burj
Shopping
- Dubai Mall
- Mall of the Emirates
- Gold & Spice Souks
Nightlife
- Downtown rooftop bars
- Marina lounges
- Palm Jumeirah beach clubs
Museums & culture
- Museum of the Future
- Dubai Frame
- Etihad Museum
Local foods to try
- Shawarma
- Machboos
- Luqaimat
- Karak chai
Hidden gems
- Alserkal Avenue art district
- Al Qudra desert lakes
- Ripe Market
Travel tips
- Dress modestly in traditional areas
- Fridays follow the weekend rhythm — plan around prayer times
In pictures
Dubai gallery
Good to know
Frequently asked questions
Keep exploring
