Dubai's Spectacular Sights: Top Tourist Places That Will Leave You Breathless
According to the Department of Economy and Tourism, more than 4.5 million tourists visited Dubai between January and March of 2023. Dubai, the vibrant metropolis in the heart of the United Arab Emirates, offers a mesmerizing blend of modern marvels and rich cultural heritage.
Marvel at the majestic Burj Khalifa, the tallest man-made structure in the world. Explore the iconic Burj Al Arab, a sail-shaped hotel exuding opulence. Witness the captivating Dubai Fountain and immerse yourself in the charm of the Al Fahidi Historic District, and more!
Here are some of the most visited places in Dubai, that you should visit whether as a first-time tourist or a wanderer exploring new attractions. Embark on an extraordinary journey through this captivating city and be prepared to be amazed.
1- Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa is the most famous landmark of Dubai, standing at 828 meters with 163 floors. Being the world’s tallest building, it is understandable how it attracts thousands of visitors each year. Although Burj Khalifa is divided into offices, hotels, and more, you can visit the observation decks located on Levels 124 and 125, called At the Top, and on Level 148 At the Top Sky, for majestic Dubai views. Also, you can treat yourself at The Lounge Burj Khalifa, which is notable for being the world’s highest lounge at 585 meters.
Operating Hours:
- Burj Khalifa is open 24 hours a day
- The Lounge operates every day from 09.00 to 00.00
- At the Top operates every day from 08.00 to 00.00
Entrance Fee:
- There is no entrance fee to Burj Khalifa.
- For At the Top, the ticket price starts from AED 169 (around USD 46) per person.
- For At the Top Sky, the ticket price starts from AED 399 (around USD 108) per person.
2- Burj Al Arab
Another iconic landmark of Dubai is Burj Al Arab which is notable for being one of the most luxurious hotels worldwide. This seven-star hotel has 28 double-story floors of more than 200 suites, restaurants, and more. Discover the allure of Burj Al Arab, one of the most popular destinations for tourists, through an array of guided tour packages, or the tranquil ambiance of Skyview Lounge. You can choose different tour packages, and tickets are conveniently available both online and at the entrance.
Operating Hours:
- Burj Al Arab is closed to non-guests, but tours operate daily from 10.00 to 19.00
- Skyview Lounge operates daily from 16.00 to 23.30
Entrance Fee:
- Tour Packages include different services like dinner and spa, and the prices may differ, but guided tours start from AED 249 which is roughly USD 68.
3- Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is located inside the Dubai Mall, and it is among the most popular attractions in Dubai. This place contains more than 33,000 aquatic animals in a massive 10-million-liter tank and houses a significant sand tiger shark collection.
Considered one of the largest suspended aquariums, there are numerous activities for all, including Aquarium Tunnel, Underwater Zoo, Glass Bottom Boat ride, Animal encounters, and diving experiences. This place is especially ideal for families as the abundance of activities would be a great adventure for kids. However, it is still one of the must-visit places for adults as well.
Operating Hours:
- 10.00 to 22.15 daily
Entrance Fee:
- Ticket prices start from AED 199 per person, which is about USD 54.
4- Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame, located in Park Zabeel, is one of the latest cultural landmarks of the UAE. Standing 150 meters high and 95 meters wide, holds the Guinness World Record as the world's largest frame and is the ideal spot for the best photographs in Dubai. This iconic structure offers its visitors a panoramic view of both Old and New Dubai, and if you want to get the most spectacular view you should visit in the morning and during sunset. Do not wait longer to embark on this captivating journey!
Operating Hours:
- 09.00 to 21.00 daily
Entrance Fee:
- Ticket prices start from AED 50 (roughly USD 13) per adult.
5- Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque is one of the most photographed mosques in Dubai and one of the best tourist attractions. Jumeirah Mosque was a gift from the Late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum and was opened in 1979. What separates this mosque from others, is that the only mosque in Dubai where non-Muslims are permitted to enter. While visiting, do not forget to dress modestly, women should cover their heads and act respectfully. Note that non-Muslims need to visit this mosque with a tour.
Operating Hours:
- Tours are available from Saturday to Thursday, excluding Friday at 10.00 and 14.00
Entrance Fee:
- Tours cost AED 35 (USD 9,53) per person
6- Grand Souk Deira
Grand Souk Deira is among the most authentic and culturally significant places in Dubai and must be on every tourist’s itinerary. Souks have huge importance in Dubai where both locals and tourists can find a variety of traditional goods. Grand Souk offers a truly unique experience both for its architecture, as it was established in 1850, and for great souvenirs like spices, perfume, herbs, shawls, fabrics, toys, household items, and more!
Operating Hours:
- From Saturday to Thursday from 10.00 to 22.00 and on Fridays from 16.00 to 22.00
Entrance Fee:
- Free
7- Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
Once in Dubai, you should visit Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood to better understand the cultural and historical heritage of Dubai. This district is located along Dubai Creek, and it is a true marvel with preserved original infrastructure that dates back to the late 18th century. Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood houses more than 50 houses to visit, including Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai Museum, and other museums, galleries, gift shops, and other places which mostly charge fees. This quaint old neighborhood is worth visiting to observe the traditional living standards of Dubai and be mesmerized by the authentic architecture.
Operating Hours:
- From 07.00 to 20.00 daily
Entrance Fee:
- Free
8- Dubai Fountain
A must-visit for every tourist, Dubai Fountain offers a visual feast to its visitors. Although The Palm Fountain is the largest fountain that holds Guinness World Record, The Dubai Fountain has perhaps the best fountain show in Dubai. Enjoy one of the tallest performing fountains in the world, 275 meters to be specific, within the 30-acre Burj Lake, and immerse yourself in a spectacular choreographed water show with more than 6000 lights and 50 projectors. You can witness this show whether from the Waterfront Promenade in Dubai Mall for free, or take the Dubai Fountain Lake Ride starting from AED65 per person. Dubai Fountain shows take place every 30 minutes.
Operating Hours:
- From 18.00 to 23.00 daily
Entrance Fee:
- Free
9- Sky Views Dubai
Sky Views Dubai is one of the latest tourist attractions in Dubai where you can enjoy the city at 219,5 meters above ground. This place offers you an adrenaline-inducing experience combined with a breathtaking view. Located in the Address Sky View Hotel in Downtown Dubai, visitors can enjoy the 360-degree view of Dubai in the Observatory, or feel the adrenaline rush through Glass Slide or Edge Walk. To get the best view, consider visiting during the sunset, but note that sunset is quite popular and tends to be crowded as well.
Operating Hours:
- Sky Views Observatory is open daily from 10.00 to 21.00
- Edge Walk is open daily from 11.00 to 18.30
- Glass Slide is open daily from 10.30 to 21.00
Entrance Fee:
- Sky Views Observatory general admission is AED 85 (USD 23)
- Edge Walk General Admission is AED 504 (USD 137)
- Sky Views Observatory ticket includes Sky Glide experience as well, each extra slide costs AED 25(USD 7)
10- Bedouin Camping – Platinum Heritage
Bedouins, which are an ethnic group mainly known for being desert-dwelling herders and traders, spread through the Arabian Peninsula. Although Dubai stands out with its ultra-modern architecture and lavish lifestyle, the Bedouin camps are a must-try for tourists, to understand the cultural heritage of the United Arab Emirates.
Platinum Heritage is ideal to have such an experience, as it is 45 minutes from Dubai’s city center. You will be seated on Arabian rugs in the desert, enjoying a barbeque dinner, following Bedouin tea and hookah shisha, and watching a belly dance performance. You can opt to spend the night in traditional Bedouin tents and if you are up to adventure can try camel rides, desert safari, hold falcons, attend air balloon rides, or sandboarding as well. But do not forget to bring a light jacket for the night, and sunscreen for the day.
Operating Hours:
- From 07.00 to 00.00, excluding overnight stays
Pricing:
- Different packages are available, Safari and overnight stay prices starting from AED 995 (USD 270) per adult.
