What To Do In Dubai
Dubai is a city known for its opulence, luxury, and extravagance. It’s where the impossible becomes possible, where the tallest building in the world stands tall and man-made islands shaped like palm trees are a common sight.
It’s a city with something for everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a good time. There are many attractions in Dubai, and here are some major ones.
Since 2004 I have watched the city grow and change out of all recognition, which has been exciting. This ongoing change is one reason that makes the city so interesting to live and work in. Dubai has something for everyone if you are looking for things to do.
This blog post will deeply dive into five of Dubai’s most famous attractions: the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, Palm Jumeirah, Museum of the Future, and Ain Dubai. These attractions are unique in their own way and are a must-visit for anyone travelling to Dubai.
Table Of Contents
Burj Khalifa
Overview
The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, standing at an impressive height of 828 meters. It’s a towering skyscraper that dominates the skyline of Dubai, and it’s a must-visit attraction for anyone travelling to the city. The Burj Khalifa has 163 floors, and visitors can take an elevator to the top and enjoy the stunning view of Dubai from the observation deck.
The view is breathtaking at sunset, as you can watch the city slowly light up. An interesting fact is that you can enjoy the sunset at the bottom of the tower, take a lift to the top, and enjoy the sunset again. I haven’t tried it but it could be a fun challenge.
I was there at the inauguration of the tower, which was quite the night. The tower was originally called ‘Burj Dubai’ but was renamed to ‘Burj Khalifa’ after Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan who was the President of the UAE at the time. The show was spectacular with sky diving, concerts, and an amazing light and firework show.
The Burj Khalifa is also home to the world’s highest restaurant, Atmosphere, on the 122nd floor. The restaurant offers breathtaking views of the city and serves various delicious dishes. This is the place to be if you want a unique dining experience.
The building is also home to the world’s highest nightclub, Level 148, on the 148th floor. The club offers a stunning city view and is a popular spot for locals and tourists. The tower is probably the most famous of the attractions in Dubai.
If you’re looking for something more adventurous, try the At the Top SKY experience on the 148th floor of the Burj Khalifa. This experience includes access to the observation deck, a guided tour, and a visit to the exclusive SKY lounge. This is really cool. I have done this a few times when family and friends have come to visit, and I do recommend it.
Transportation Links
The nearest metro station is the Burj Khalifa / Dubai Mall station. A raised and enclosed walkway takes you from the station to Dubai Mall. You can then walk through Dubai Mall and reach the tourist entrance to the tower from within the mall. Taxis can also be taken and can drop you off at the main entrance to the tower as well.
F13
Dubai Frame
Overview
The Dubai Frame is a unique architectural wonder in Zabeel Park. It’s a giant golden frame that stands at a height of 150 meters and is 93 meters wide. The frame has a glass bridge that connects the two towers, and visitors can walk on it while enjoying the stunning view of Dubai.
The Dubai Frame also has a museum showcasing the city’s history and development. The museum has interactive exhibits, workshops, and events that showcase how Dubai has transformed into today’s city. Visitors can learn about the history of the city, its culture, and its future plans.
The Dubai Frame is a popular attraction and a great photo spot. The view from the top is breathtaking, as you can see both old and new Dubai from one spot. It is probably the most unique of the attractions in Dubai. This is another one that I have done personally, and it is great fun.
Transportation Links
La Mer is not directly served by the metro system. The nearest metro station is the World Trade Center metro station, which is too far to walk. You must take a taxi from there, or directly from your home.
Buses
F09 at the Dubai Frame stop
Palm Jumeirah
Overview
The Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island shaped like a palm tree. It’s one of the most impressive engineering marvels in the world, and it’s home to some of the most luxurious hotels and resorts in Dubai. Palm Jumeirah is a popular spot for tourists, and it has a lot of attractions for visitors.
One of the most popular attractions in Palm Jumeirah is the Aquaventure Waterpark. The waterpark is one of the largest in the world and has a variety of water rides and slides suitable for all ages. The waterpark also has a private beach, restaurants, and shops.
The Palm also has a lot of high-end restaurants, cafes, and bars. Some of the most popular restaurants on the island include Nobu, Bidi Bondi, and 101 Dining Lounge and Bar. These restaurants offer a variety of cuisines, and they are a great place to enjoy a meal or a drink while enjoying the stunning sea view.
Another popular attraction on the Palm Jumeirah is the Atlantis, The Palm. This luxury resort is one of the most famous in Dubai, and it’s home to various restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues. The resort also has an aquarium, the Lost Chambers Aquarium, home to over 65,000 marine animals. The island is vast, and it will take many days to visit its attractions, but lots of fun to explore.
More information about the Palm Jumeirah can be found here.
Transportation Links
Palm Jumeirah has its own monorail system that starts from the mainland and connects from the mainland all the way to the outer area at the Atlantis Hotel. The mainland connection is near the tram network that goes through Dubai Marina and connects to the main Dubai metro. You can, of course, take taxis or drive onto the Palm and park at your destination.
Buses
No buses on the Palm Jumeirah
Museum Of The Future
Overview
The Museum of the Future is uniquely dedicated to showcasing the latest technology and innovation. The museum is located in the heart of Dubai and is a must-visit for anyone interested in technology and innovation.
The Museum of the Future has a variety of interactive exhibits, workshops, and events that showcase the latest technology and innovation. Visitors can learn about artificial intelligence, robotics, and other cutting-edge technologies. The museum also has a virtual reality experience that allows visitors to explore the future of Dubai and the world.
The Museum of the Future is not just a museum but also a research centre dedicated to developing new technologies and innovations. The museum works with researchers, innovators, and startups worldwide to develop new technologies that can help solve some of the world’s most pressing problems.
There is also a large conference centre in the museum that has already hosted many different events about different areas of the future.
Transportation Links
The nearest metro station is the Emirates Towers station, within walking distance of the museum.
Buses
21, 98E, F11, F29 at the Emirates Towers metro bus stop
Ain Dubai Observation Wheel
Overview
Ain Dubai, also known as the Dubai Eye, is the world’s largest observation wheel, standing at 250 meters. It’s located on Bluewaters Island, which is a man-made island that’s home to a variety of attractions, including restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues.
The Ain Dubai has 48 capsules, each holding up to 40 people. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes and offers a stunning sea and city view. The Ain Dubai is a great spot to visit at night, as you can see the city light up and enjoy the stunning view of the skyline.
Bluewaters Island, where the Ain Dubai is located, is also home to various other attractions, including the Caesars Palace Bluewaters Dubai, a luxury hotel and resort, and The Beach, a shopping and entertainment complex located on the beachfront. Of the attractions that Dubai has, this one is pretty cool.
Transportation Links
There is no access to the Ain Dubai from the Dubai Metro directly. The closest stations are those connected to Dubai Marina; you can take a taxi or walk (a long time) to the wheel. It is possible to drive as there is a dedicated road network and underground parking on the island.
Buses
F57 to the Bluewaters Island stop
Summary Dubai Attractions
In conclusion, Dubai is known for its luxury, opulence, and extravagance. It’s a city with something for everyone, whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a good time.
The Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, Palm Jumeirah, Museum of the Future, and Ain Dubai are just some of the many attractions Dubai offers. These attractions are unique in their own way, and they are a must-visit for anyone travelling to Dubai.
This is only a tiny selection of what is available in Dubai, so I would encourage you to explore the links below to see other attractions and activities that can be experienced.
Useful Links For Attractions In Dubai
- More information about Burj Khalifa can be found HERE
- Want to know about Palm Jumeirah. Look HERE
- Check out the Museum Of The Future HERE
- Take a more detailed look at the Ain Dubai HERE.
- For a great intro to Dubai, look HERE
- Check out Dubai’s beaches HERE
- Some fun secret places in Dubai can be found HERE
- Dubai entry requirements can be found HERE
- Want to know about Dubai Frame. Then click HERE
- If you like history, then you must check out the Al Fahidi Historical District
- Check out Dubai Mall for the best shopping
- Playing Golf in Dubai is a big attraction
- Check out the Lost Chambers at The Atlantis Dubai hotel and resort.
- If you love flowers then check out the Dubai Miracle Garden.
- Another fascinating spot is the Dubai Garden Glow.
- Rent a car or a luxury car whilst in Dubai.
- Looking for a gym to work out?
- The impressive Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is ready to visit.
- The Expo City Dubai is a new and exciting addition to Dubai’s landscape.
- Fancy a dune bashing trip with dinner afterwards?
- You can try kite flying at the Kite Beach in Dubai
Key Takeaways – Attractions In Dubai
- There are an amazing array of attractions to visit and enjoy in Dubai, and this post describes only a small fraction of them.
- Palm Jumeirah is huge, and it will take a few days to visit everything on the island.
- Public transport is good in Dubai, especially taxis, so make use of it. Hiring a car is a good choice, but the roads can also get very busy.
- Relax and take your time. There is a lot to do in Dubai.