Dubai blends futuristic architecture, luxury resorts, and vast desert landscapes, offering a striking contrast of city glamour and natural scenery for every type of traveller.
Discover Dubai
Discover Dubai
Why visit Dubai?
What to expect
You can expect dramatic skylines, sprawling malls, waterfront promenades, and thoughtfully designed neighbourhoods that mix modern design with traditional souks and cultural spaces.
Plan your trip
Dubai is an easy hub for exploring the wider United Arab Emirates and the Gulf region, with excellent infrastructure, reliable transport, and a wide choice of hotels across all major districts.
Top sights in Dubai
Burj Khalifa
Ride the high-speed lifts to the observation decks of the Burj Khalifa for sweeping views across the city, the coastline, and the surrounding desert.
Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain
Explore Dubai Mall for its vast array of shops and attractions, then step outside in the evening to watch the choreographed Dubai Fountain water shows set against the city lights.
Dubai Marina
Stroll along Dubai Marina Walk or take a boat cruise between the glittering towers to see the city from the water and enjoy its lively waterfront atmosphere.
Palm Jumeirah
Head to the Palm Jumeirah for beachfront resorts, beach clubs, and photo-worthy views of the distinctive palm-shaped island from boardwalks and viewpoints.
Old Dubai and the Creek
Visit the historic districts along Dubai Creek, wander through traditional souks, and take an abra boat across the water to see a more historic side of the city.
Desert experiences
Join a desert excursion just outside Dubai for dune landscapes, sunset views, and the chance to experience the region's dramatic natural environment.
Museum of the Future
Step into the Museum of the Future to explore interactive exhibits within one of Dubai's most striking contemporary buildings.
Experience Dubai's everyday rhythm
Getting around
Use the Dubai Metro and tram for easy access to key districts such as Downtown and Dubai Marina, then switch to taxis or ride-hailing for door-to-door journeys. For a scenic ride, take a traditional abra across Dubai Creek for short hops between old neighbourhoods.
Local life & culture
Explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Al Seef, and areas around the Creek to see restored wind-tower houses, museums, galleries, and cultural centres that showcase the city's heritage alongside its modern character.
Where to unwind
Relax on public beaches such as Jumeirah Beach in the morning or late afternoon, or seek shade in landscaped parks and beachfront promenades that are especially pleasant around sunset and into the evening.
A taste of Dubai
Street food & local specialties
Sample shawarma, grilled meats, and Middle Eastern pastries at casual cafes and local eateries in Deira and around Dubai Creek, where you will find a mix of traditional flavours and regional favourites.
Casual & modern dining hubs
Head to areas such as City Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, and major malls for global cuisines, family-friendly restaurants, and cafes where generous portions and shared plates make it easy to try a variety of dishes.
Signature & scenic dining
Book a table at restaurants with views of the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, or the Arabian Gulf, where refined menus are paired with impressive skyline or waterfront backdrops for a memorable evening.
Retail therapy in Dubai
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Discover Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and other large shopping centres where international brands, local designers, cinemas, and indoor attractions make them full-day lifestyle destinations.
Markets & local crafts
Browse the Gold Souk and Spice Souk in Deira, as well as boutique-lined streets in areas like Al Fahidi and Alserkal Avenue, for jewellery, textiles, art, and contemporary regional design pieces.
Evening retail scene
Many malls, waterfront promenades, and souks stay open late, coming alive with illuminated shopfronts and outdoor cafes, and Dubai's taxis and Metro make these evening shopping spots easy to reach.
Best time to visit Dubai
Peak season runs from November to March, when daytime temperatures are around 24–28°C (75–82°F) and evenings are cooler, ideal for outdoor sightseeing and beach activities. Shoulder season in April, May, October, and early November sees warmer conditions of about 30–35°C (86–95°F), with pleasant evenings and fewer crowds. Low season from June to September is very hot, often 38–42°C (100–108°F), with many activities moving indoors to air-conditioned malls and venues.