Dubai is a city that has truly captured the hearts of travelers from all around the world. Being the largest city of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai has a lot to offer for tourists. This city is a unique blend of modern-day luxury, rich traditional heritage, and delicious food. Dubai is a destination that has everything from world-class shopping malls to beautiful beaches, iconic landmarks to top-notch restaurants, exciting adventures to rejuvenating experiences, and much more. In this blog, we will be discussing why Dubai is a must-visit destination for every traveler out there.
Why Dubai is a Must-Visit Destination For Every Traveler
Rich Culture and Heritage
Dubai is a city with an amazing cultural and historical heritage that is well-preserved even today. The best way to learn about Dubai’s rich culture is by visiting the Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort, where you can get a glimpse of the city’s past. Dubai also has the sole-standing Bastakia Quarter that dates back to the 19th century, which is now a UNESCO-listed site. There are many other heritage sites, art galleries, and museums that showcase Dubai’s culture and traditions. Engaging in traditional activities such as shows (Arabian boat) ride, camel riding, falconry, henna, Arabic coffee, and dates would leave you with ever-lasting memories.
Shop Until You Drop
Dubai is a paradise for shopaholics and has enormous shopping options that cater to all tastes and budgets. Dubai is home to the world’s largest shopping mall – The Dubai Mall, which attracts over 80 million visitors annually. Shopping in Dubai is an experience like no other with a wide range of retail options and exclusive brands available from all over the world. From designer clothes to high-end jewelry, home decor to electronics, and more. Apart from malls, Dubai has a long-stretched market called souks that are filled with traditional Arabian products including spices, textiles, gold, and perfumes.
Stunning Architecture and Landmarks
Photo Credits: ZQ Lee
Dubai is renowned for its iconic architecture and iconic man-made landmarks that are world-famous. The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, is located in Dubai, and offers stunning views of the city. The Dubai Frame is a unique structure that allows you to look at old Dubai and new Dubai, side by side. The Palm Jumeirah is a beautiful palm-shaped island that has some of the most luxurious resorts in the world. The Burj Al Arab is the world’s only 7-star hotel and is instantly recognizable with its iconic sail-shaped design. Dubai’s skyline is filled with incredible architecture that is sure to leave you mesmerized.
Tantalizing Food Scene
Dubai’s food scene is one of the main reasons for its popularity and attracts food lovers from around the world. Dubai’s cuisine is heavily influenced by the Middle East, India, and Asia, and offers an extensive range of authentic dishes. Dubai has some of the best restaurants in the world with Michelin-starred chefs, including Nobu, Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen, and many others. Street food is also a big part of Dubai’s food culture and is an affordable option to explore different dishes.
Fun-Filled Activities
Dubai never fails to surprise visitors with fun-filled activities that cater to all ages. Dubai is a city that offers something for everyone. For adventure enthusiasts, activities such as skydiving, dune bashing, and indoor skiing are available. For nature lovers, Dubai offers beautiful beaches, parks, and desert safaris. Those interested in shopping can indulge in the enormous shopping options. Dubai has the largest indoor theme park in the world, the IMG Worlds of Adventure, which is a great option for families with kids. You could also indulge in spa treatments, golfing, theaters, and much more.
A Guide to the Best Tour Companies in Dubai
Arabian Adventures
If you are looking for a company that offers a wide range of tours and experiences, Arabian Adventures is one to consider. They offer everything from desert safaris and city tours to hot air balloon rides and private yacht cruises. Their experienced guides will take you on a journey around Dubai, enlightening you with rich information about the city’s culture, heritage, and history.
Gray Line Tours
Gray Line Tours is another prominent tour company in Dubai. They offer a diverse range of tours, including desert safaris, dhow cruises, and sightseeing tours of hotspots such as the Burj Khalifa and the Palm Jumeirah. Their well-trained guides will enlighten you on everything you need to know regarding the places you visit, making sure you leave with a wealth of knowledge about Dubai.
OceanAir Travels
OceanAir Travels is the perfect company to go to if you are looking for a more customized experience. They offer private tours tailored to your preferences, allowing you to choose the destinations you would love to visit. They also offer transfers to and from the airport, making arriving and departing from Dubai a breeze.
Platinum Heritage
Platinum Heritage is a company that specializes in desert safaris. With them, you can enjoy a luxurious private 4×4 vehicle that will take you on a tour of Dubai’s stunning desert. You will also get to experience traditional Emirati activities, such as falconry and henna painting in a Bedouin-style camp.
Big Bus Tours
Big Bus Tours offer hop-on-hop-off city tours to explore Dubai easily. They have three different routes that will take you to all the key attractions around Dubai, including the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Palm Jumeirah. You can choose between a live guide or an audio guide.
Exploring the Iconic Burj Khalifa – The World’s Tallest Building
History of the Burj Khalifa
Did you know that the Burj Khalifa was originally named the Burj Dubai, and was renamed in honor of the president of the United Arab Emirates, Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, after he bailed out Dubai during the financial crisis? Construction began in 2004 and took six years to complete, with the building opening to the public in 2010. The Burj Khalifa was designed by Adrian Smith, who is renowned for his work on other skyscrapers like the Trump tower in Chicago. The building’s shape was modeled after the Hymenocallis flower, a native flower to the Middle East.
Attractions within the Burj Khalifa
Of course, the main attraction of the Burj Khalifa is the observation deck on the 148th floor, which offers stunning views of Dubai and the surrounding desert. But there’s so much more to explore within the building, including a luxurious hotel, high-end retail and dining options, and even an art gallery. The hotel, Armani Hotel Dubai, is designed by Giorgio Armani himself, offering guests an ultra-luxurious experience. The art gallery, The Gallery at The Burj Khalifa, showcases contemporary art from around the world, making it a must-visit for any art lover.
Tips for visiting the Burj Khalifa
Photo Credits: Marvin Castelino
When planning your visit, it’s important to book your tickets in advance. Popular times tend to sell out quickly, so it’s best to purchase your tickets as soon as you know your travel dates. Another tip is to try and visit during sunset for the best views. If you want to avoid the crowds, consider visiting early in the morning or late at night. Finally, be sure to dress appropriately – the Burj Khalifa has a dress code that prohibits shorts, sandals, and sleeveless shirts.
Get Your Adrenaline Pumping with the Wild Wadi Waterpark Adventure
The Wild Wadi Waterpark is home to some of the most exciting and thrilling rides in the region. For those who want to start small, the Juha’s Journey lazy river is a great option. This gentle ride takes you on a leisurely journey through the park, giving you a chance to relax and take in the sights. But don’t let the name fool you; there are still plenty of surprises along the way.
If you’re looking for something a little more intense, Jumeirah Sceirah is the ride for you. This twin-tower slide takes you on a thrilling 120-meter journey at speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour. It’s not for the faint of heart, but the rush of adrenaline is worth it.
For those who want to experience the ultimate thrill, Burj Surj should be at the top of the list. This massive slide takes you on a wild ride through twists and turns before dropping you into a giant bowl with a splash. It’s an experience like no other and is sure to get your heart racing.
But it’s not just about the rides at Wild Wadi. The park also offers plenty of other attractions, including a wave pool, a lazy river, and a children’s area. Plus, there are several restaurants and shops where you can relax and refuel between rides.
How to Enjoy Shopping at the Dubailand Mall of the Emirates
Arrive Early
Dubai is a busy city, and the Dubailand Mall of the Emirates is no exception. If you want to maximize your shopping experience, it is best to arrive early, preferably when the mall opens at 10 am. This is especially true on weekends when the mall is usually packed with shoppers. Arriving early gives you ample time to explore the mall before the crowds start pouring in.
Plan Your Shopping Spree
With over 600 stores, you might find yourself overwhelmed by the vastness of the Dubailand Mall of the Emirates. Be sure to plan your shopping spree by making a list of the stores you want to visit and the items you intend to buy. This way, you can make the most of your time in the mall and avoid wasting time wandering around aimlessly.
Discover the Ski Dubai Experience
One of the must-visit attractions in the Dubailand Mall of the Emirates is the Ski Dubai Experience. Located inside the mall, it is the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East and offers visitors a unique skiing experience. Whether you are a professional skier or a beginner, Ski Dubai caters to skiers of all levels. The resort is open from 10 am to 11 pm, so you can hit the slopes after you’ve done some shopping.
Take a Break and Enjoy Delicious Cuisine
Shopping can be exhausting, which is why the Dubailand Mall of the Emirates has numerous cafes and restaurants where you can take a break and refuel. From traditional Arabic cuisine to international flavors, there is something for everyone’s taste buds. You can also visit the Level 2 Food Court, which features over 60 food outlets, including fast food chains and cafes.
Explore the Entertainment Options
Photo Credits: Kent Tupas
The Dubailand Mall of the Emirates is not just a shopping destination; it is also home to some of the most exciting entertainment options in the city. Whether you are an adrenaline junkie or prefer a more relaxed experience, there is something for you. You can catch a movie at the VOX Cinemas, enjoy a game of bowling at Magic Planet, or visit the Thrill Zone for some action-packed activities.
Cruising Around Palm Jumeirah – An Artificial Island Resort
One must-see attraction on Palm Jumeirah is the magnificent Atlantis, The Palm, which is a fabulous resort-themed around the mythical lost city, a place that blends luxury, fun, and the unexpected. The resort has stunning underwater suites, an aquarium, a water park, and a rooftop bar that gives you an unforgettable view of the breathtaking, beautifully-lit skyline. If you’re lucky, you might get to swim with their dolphins in Dolphin Bay, which is an extraordinary experience that can create memories to last a lifetime.
Looking for adrenaline-pumping water activities? Take a high-speed jet ski ride and zoom across the warm blue waters around the Palm Jumeirah coastline. Exploring the speed and rush of the waves on your own jet ski is a delightful experience. Or if you’re seeking more of a relaxed water experience, why not try stand-up paddle boarding and calmly navigate your way among the calm sea and stunning views?
There is no better way to see the magnificent Palm Jumeirah skyline than from the water on a luxury yacht. Stop in the middle of the sea and watch the sunset. It’s a magical vibe, picturesque scenery, and perfect way to relax and revitalize. Many rental companies offer drinks and snacks on board, so treat yourself to some tasty bites while you enjoy the stunning views.
Want to spend a day on the famous ‘World Islands’? Witness the UAE’s stunning architecture and creativity from the sea with a fantastic tour of the artificial islands of World Islands. Some companies offer complimentary kayaking and swimming trips to make the trip even more engaging, providing memories that you’ll hold for a lifetime.
If you’re looking for a more up-close experience with marine life, why not take a glass-bottomed boat tour and experience the luscious underwater world for yourself. Your journey will pass through the crystal-clear waters, with your underwater viewing platform allowing you to witness the fascinating marine life, be it, colorful fish or coral reefs, as they swim by.
Dubai is a destination that has everything a traveler could ask for and much more. this city has a unique blend of modern-day luxury and rich traditional heritage. a visit to Dubai will leave you with best memories, you could learn about the culture in museums, engage in traditional activities, feast on delicious food, and indulge in exciting adventures. Dubai is a must-visit destination for every traveler out there.
Photo Credits: David Rodrigo
Uncover the Ultimate Guide to Dubai Tours and Must-See Destinations for the Avid Traveler