Things to do in Dubai

Dubai is a place full of extremes, successfully combining traditional and contemporary living from the bustling souks of the old town to glamorous designer shopping malls and world class dining. Only here will you find shopping malls with fantastic designer shops and an indoor ski centre, while outside vast deserts provide a nail biting sand safari experience. Add to this some of the world’s most spectacular landmarks and you have a destination with just about everything, a remarkable place with some truly amazing experiences.

Dubai Landmarks

Home to the famous Burj Al Arab, Atlantis Dubai on The Palm, The World and Dubai Marina, Dubai Mall, Dubai has plenty to boast about.

Dominating the Dubai skyline with its symbolic sail-shaped design, the iconic Burj Al Arab is one of the most photographed structures in the world. At a soaring 321m, the 7 star Burj Al Arab is the world’s tallest hotel, and arguably the most luxurious. Set on its own artificial island to appear as though afloat, its dazzling white façade is transformed at night by spectacular technicolour light displays.

Atlantis resort on Palm Jumeirah has fast become one of Dubai’s top family attractions with its huge water park Aquaventure and The Lost Chambers, a vast underground aquarium housing 65,000 marine animals. More than just a theme park, Atlantis also boasts high-end boutiques, a mile of pristine beach, 17 bars, restaurants, lounges, a nightclub and a spa.

The World is a man-made archipelago of 300 private islands constructed in the shape of the world map, located 4 km off the Dubai coast. Conceived by Sheikh Mohammed, The World is set to become Dubai’s premier island destination, rewarding its residents with the privacy of an island retreat, yet the glamour and excitement of Dubai only a 15 minute boat ride away.

Dubai Marina is one of the world’s largest master-planned waterfront developments and was designed to create a city within a city. Home to some of the most exclusive hotels, restaurants and bars, Dubai Marina is undeniably one of the most desirable locations for residential property.

Dubai Shopping

Dubai is famous for its tax free shopping and boasts several shopping malls including the world’s largest, Dubai Mall. Home to just about every major fashion brand in the world, Dubai Mall also houses a 22-screen cinema, the Sega Republic indoor theme park, a massive aquarium with the world’s largest viewing panel, an Olympic-size ice rink and a waterfall.

For Dubai shopping traditional style, head to the Dubai souks; Arabic markets crammed into the alleyways on both banks of the creek. Haggle for jewellery at the gold souk where prices are some of the lowest in the world, savour the scents of the spice souk and browse the colourful silks and cottons in the textile shops of the Meena Bazaar.

Dubai Museum

The Dubai Museum is situated in the beautifully renovated Al Fahidi Fort, one of Dubai’s oldest buildings and offers the perfect setting to follow Dubai’s journey from poor pearling village to modern metropolis and to explore the authentic sights and sounds of the history of the Emirates.

Dubai Desert Safari

Experience the majesty of the Dubai desert on a breathtaking tantalising desert safari. Several operators offer high-speed adventures in 4×4’s rollercoasting across the dunes. Then, take a camel ride before heading back to the traditional Bedouin camp for belly dancing, drinks and an Arabian barbeque under the stars.

Wild Wadi

Located in prime position on the doorstep of the Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi is one of the world’s best water parks featuring an impressive array of rides for all ages and bravery levels. Thrill-seekers should try the Jumeriah Sceirah which hurtles you down a 100ft drop at a breathtaking 50mph.

Coming soon

Dubai’s latest visionary creation has attracted the world’s most esteemed designers, developers and builders and has the longest travel distance from ground to sky level; it is of course The Burj Dubai, the world’s tallest building at about 2,600ft. There’s more, this mega structure will also house the first ever Armani hotel in Dubai and is set to attract a global audience when it to opens in January next year.