The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is one of the most visited countries to visit with its world class resorts and attractions. The Oil Rich Nation has spent tons of money making Dubai a major hub for international travel. Dubai is a great gateway for a dedicated visit or making it an extended layover in route to many amazing world destinations with Emirates (Check out my review of flying Business Class on Emirates). Here is my complete Dubai Travel Guide with all the best things to do & see and places to stay on your trip.
THE BEST THINGS TO DO IN DUBAI
Visit the Burj Khalifa
The Dubai skyline is filled with architectural and engineering marvels. The Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, is the crown jewel of the skyline and compares to nothing else in the world. Be sure to visit at night as the building is illuminate with a unique light show. You can get tickets ahead of time to take an elevator all the way to the top of the viewing platform for the ultimate view of the city. Plan ahead and book a slot before sunset so you can enjoy golden hour through twilight above the clouds.
Explore the Dubai Mall
You don't need to go on a shopping spree to enjoy the Dubai Mall. There are tons of restaurants and world class shopping but the mere magnitude of this mall is an experience in its own right. Be sure to get some Baklava while you are there!
Visit the Fountain Show
Just outside the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall is the world famous Dubai Fountain Show. Running multiple consecutive shows from day through night, each show is different and is its own spectacle. You definitely will want to enjoy an evening show and stay for a few rounds as it truly is a magnificent sight.
Experience Old Town Dubai
Dubai in the last 50 years has transformed to what is is now, a modern hub of sky scrapers. The original Dubai was more modest and had more culture and history. Enjoy the Old Souk Markets where you can see all of the spices, shopping, and culture.
Visit Dubai Marina
A quick 20 minute Taxi ride out of downtown Dubai will bring you to another city filled with more skyscrapers. The Marina area is filled with yacht and more opulence and world class resorts. This area is quieter and the place you will want to be if you are looking more for a relaxing vacation. Here you will find Jeremiah Beach and the world famous man made Palm home to large resorts, shopping, dining, and attractions.
Relax at one of the world highest Roof Top Pools
There are so many amazing roof top pools in Dubai with spectacular views of the skyline. Head to the amazing Address Sky View which has a roof top pool on a sky bridge 50+ floors in the air with the best views of downtown Dubai and the Burj. Or, head over to the Address Beach Resort in The Dubai Marina which is even taller and has spectacular views of the Palm and Jeremiah Beach.
Enjoy the world biggest aquarium
You may be in the middle of the desert but you can immerse yourself in one of the world most amazing Aquarium experiences. Head to the Dubai Mall or to Atlantis the Palm for two spectacular venues where you can see thousands of amazing species up close and personal.
Dive Deep in to the Worlds Deepest Pool
Forget scuba diving in the ocean when you can experience Deep Dive Dubai home to the world deepest pool which transports you to a whole new world.
Observe the City from the world's largest observation wheel
Ain Dubai tops Las Vegas and the London Eye for the world's largest observation wheel with breathtaking views of Jeremiah Beach, the Marina District, and the Palm Island.
Experience the worlds best hotel
There are tons of world class accommodations but the Burj Al Arab stands out among the best of the best. You may not be able to afford a night in the worlds best resort but book a spa treatment which will get you access to this amazing resort.
BONUS ITEMS
Enjoy the world best attractions and theme parks like the Aquaventure Waterpark at the Atlantis, Sky Dive over the Palm, Ski on an indoor mountain in one of the hottest places in the world, and so much more.