Looking for the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai? From the famous Burj Al Arab to the Burj Khalifa, we’ve narrowed it down to bring you the very best.
1. Burj Khalifa
Via Facebook | @BurjKhalifa
Brave enough to ascend more than 160 stories? Not only is Burj Khalifa the tallest building on earth, it also has the highest outdoor observation deck in the world. Measuring 828 metres, the view from the top offers a breathtaking 360-degree panorama of Dubai, all from its award-winning 124th floor. Home to Armani Hotel, a number of top restaurants and a spectacular spa, Burj Khalifa is one Dubai landmark you definitely don’t want to miss.
Price: Around AED 200 to visit the ‘At The Top‘ viewing deck
Location: Downtown Dubai
insydo tip: The best time to visit is between 5.30pm and 7.30pm; that’s when you’ll see Dubai transform from day to night.
2. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center
Via Facebook | @Sheikh.Zayed.Grand.Mosque
Dominating the Abu Dhabi skyline, the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center is one of the world’s most stunning displays of Islamic architecture, attracting thousands to the capital each year. As the third largest mosque in the world, visitors are free to tour the iconic landmark all year-round. Able to accommodate more than 40,000 worshippers, the Grand Mosque is one of the country’s most popular tourist attractions.
Price: It’s free to enter
Location: Abu Dhabi
insydo tip: If you plan on visiting in the warmer months, you can expect to get quite sweaty outside of the main hall as many of the corridors and passageways are open-air.
3. Dubai Miracle Garden
Via Facebook | @DubaiMiracleGardenOfficial
Notching up another Guinness World Record for Dubai, Dubai Miracle Garden is the biggest floral garden of its kind in the world and home to over 45 million flowers. Moving away from the typical park concept, it offers walkways and features unlike any other. Think vibrant pyramids, heart-shaped archways and unexpected sculptures made from flowers; this is an extravagant outdoor destination bursting with colour.
Price: Around AED 30 for regular admission
Location: Al Barsha
insydo tip: The park is closed between May and November.
4. Gold and Spice Souk & Dubai Creek
Via Facebook | @Nguyễn Tuấn Thành
Love all things sparkly and nice, with a hint of spice? Deira’s very own Gold and Spice Souk has everything you need for both your jewellery box and spice cabinet, from diamonds and gold to cinnamon and nutmeg. Located close to the Dubai Creek, you’ll find only the freshest stocks of herbs and spices, imported daily from India, Pakistan and Iran.
Price: It’s free
Location: Deira
insydo tip: As for the gold, don’t buy anything without trying to barter – work your charm and you’ll knock off at least 30%.
5. The Dubai Fountain
Via Facebook | @BurjKhalifa
Designed by the creators of the Fountains of Bellagio, The Dubai Fountain has been attracting tourists and residents in droves since its opening in 2009. Not to be outdone by Vegas, the landmark holds the Guinness record for the world’s largest dancing fountains, spanning 120,000 square metres and jetting arcs of water up to 152 metres in the air. The fountains leap into action every 30 minutes from 6pm, with a couple of afternoon shows thrown into the mix. Expect choreographed performances to tracks from Michael Jackson and Whitney Houston.
Price: It’s free to watch
Location: The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
insydo tip: Save yourself AED 65 by avoiding the Abra boat ride that takes you around the lake; the view is just as good from the promenade.
6. Burj Al Arab
Via Facebook | @BurjAlArab
The world’s most iconic hotel, Burj Al Arab boasts a seven-star status thanks to its exquisite service, unique architecture and the fact that it’s built on an island – accessible only by a 280-metre bridge. The hotel itself is large enough to accommodate more than 3,000 guests. Once home to the most expensive cocktail in the world, the hotel houses some of the city’s best restaurants, bars, beaches, spas and jewellery stores.
Price: Friday brunch is around AED 675 and afternoon tea at The Sky Lounge is around AED 620
Location: Umm Suqeim
insydo tip: Some of the Burj Al Arab restaurants participate in the Dubai Restaurant Week in May; watch out for reduced rates.
7. Atlantis Dubai
As one of the world’s most iconic hotels, Atlantis embodies the luxurious decadence of Dubai. Boasting everything from its own marine and waterpark to a scuba diving centre and mall, the sprawling resort is a destination in itself. Luxury lovers of all nationalities stay at the lavish hotel, while the building itself attracts thousands of tourists each year – it really is the perfect Instagram opportunity. With more than 1,500 rooms, more than 15 eateries and 20 venues, you’ll never be short of something to excite you.
Price: Room prices depend on the time of year
Location: Palm Jumeirah
insydo tip: If you’re looking to splash the cash, book the Underwater Suite or the Royal Bridge Suite.