Dubai, a dazzling gem in the heart of the UAE, is a city that blends modern luxury with rich culture. From towering skyscrapers to beautiful beaches, world-class shopping to thrilling adventures, and state-of-the-art real estate, Dubai offers something for every type of traveler.
Whether you are seeking breathtaking views from the Burj Khalifa or a peaceful escape in the desert, the city’s attractions promise unforgettable experiences. In this guide, we will explore some of the best tourist places in Dubai that will make your visit truly magical, with a mix of iconic landmarks and hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
10 Best Tourist Places in Dubai
Dubai is a city with tons of attractions. However, we have compiled a list of top tourist places in Dubai to visit.
1. Burj Khalifa
Standing at 828 meters, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and arguably the best tourist place in Dubai.
It is located in the heart of the city and is a lively spot both day and night. Simply looking up at its towering height is an experience in itself.
Inside, you will find an observation deck on levels 124 and 125, offering stunning views of Dubai. You can also relax at the Top Sky Lounge or treat yourself to a sunset at The Lounge, the world’s highest lounge, located 585 meters above the ground.
Opening hours: 8am – 12am, daily.
2. Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah is amongst the largest man-made islands on Earth and a true marvel of human engineering. The island is home to luxury hotels like Waldorf Astoria, Atlantis The Palm, and One&Only. Visitors can easily reach the island via the monorail, which connects to the city’s tram system.
3. Dubai Fountain
At the base of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain is the largest choreographed fountain show in the world. Powerful jets shoot water up to 150 meters high, dancing to music.
The best time to watch is at night when the fountain show starts at sunset, happening every 30 minutes until 11 pm. You can enjoy the view from nearby restaurants in the Dubai Mall or Souk Al Bahar.
Opening hours: 6pm – 11pm, daily.
4. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Al Fahidi is one of Dubai’s oldest neighborhoods that offers a glimpse of the past with its narrow alleys, wind towers, and views of the historic Dubai Creek.
Visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding to learn more about local culture. It offers Arabic classes, heritage tours, and mosque visits. Afterward, take an abra boat ride across the creek to explore the traditional souks.
5. Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the world. It features over 1,200 retail stores, 150 restaurants, and countless attractions. The mall spans more than 1 million square meters, which is equivalent to 200 football fields! It’s impossible to see everything in just one day. Indeed, one of the best tourist areas in Dubai.
Opening hours: 10am – 1am, daily (except Wednesday, closes at midnight).
6. Madinat Jumeirah
Madinat Jumeirah, which means “City of Jumeirah,” is a stunning resort inspired by ancient Arabian architecture. The complex features luxurious hotels and private villas, creating a peaceful atmosphere.
You can enjoy a relaxing day at the Talise Spa, shop for unique items at Madinat Souk, or explore the Theatre of Digital Art, where you can experience cutting-edge digital exhibitions.
There are over 40 restaurants and lounges offering delicious food from all over the world, making it a great place to enjoy a meal.
Opening hours & price: Vary by venue.
7. Dubai Frame
Opened in 2018, the Dubai Frame is an iconic landmark that links the city’s past with its modern future. Located in Zabeel Park, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai from 150 meters above the ground makes it one of the top tourist places in Dubai.
The Frame has two tall towers connected by a clear glass bridge, giving the structure the appearance of a giant picture frame. It is a must-see for those wanting to experience both Old and New Dubai in one spot.
Opening hours: 9am – 9pm, daily.
8. Dubai Water Canal
The Dubai Water Canal stretches 3.2 kilometers from Dubai Creek through Business Bay and leads to the Arabian Gulf. The canal features 80,000 square meters of public spaces and a 12km cycling path, making it a great spot for outdoor activities.
There are five pedestrian bridges that cross the water, perfect for taking in the stunning views. Nearby, you will find Al Habtoor City, with attractions like the La Perle by Dragone show, luxury hotels, and trendy restaurants.
9. Dubai Opera
Located in Downtown Dubai, Dubai Opera is a world-class venue for performing arts, hosting shows from London’s West End and New York’s Broadway. The stunning building, inspired by traditional Arabian dhow ships, offers amazing views of the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa.
Inside, the stage can be transformed for different events, including theatre performances, concerts, and ballet. Check out the Dubai Calendar to see what shows are playing during your visit.
Opening hours: 10am – 9pm, daily (show times vary).
10. Hatta
Just a 130km drive southeast of Downtown Dubai, Hatta is a beautiful mountain town offering outdoor adventures and one of the best tourist places in Dubai.
You can kayak on the calm waters of Hatta Lake or explore the rocky terrain on foot with special hiking trails.
Hatta is also home to the Hatta Dome Park, where you can enjoy a unique glamping experience with stunning mountain views.
Other attractions include Hatta Wadi Hub, where you can try zorbing, mountain biking, and even visit Asia’s first water jump park, Hatta Drop-In. It is the perfect place to escape the city and enjoy nature.
Top 5 Less-Known Best Tourist Places in Dubai
We have mentioned 10 best places to visit in Dubai above. These places are known to almost everyone. But now, we are going to share some hidden gems—less-known tourist areas in Dubai.
1. Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Temple
The Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Temple in Dubai is a peaceful place of worship for the Sikh community. It is one of the largest Sikh temples in the UAE, with beautiful architecture and a calm, welcoming atmosphere.
Visitors can explore the temple, learn about Sikh traditions, and experience the warm hospitality of the community. It is also known for its free community kitchen, where anyone can enjoy a meal, regardless of their background.
2. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a nature reserve located near Dubai Creek. It is home to many different types of birds, especially migratory flamingos, making it a great spot for birdwatching.
The sanctuary also has walking trails, lagoons, and mudflats, offering visitors a chance to enjoy nature and learn about local wildlife. It is a peaceful escape from the busy city, perfect for nature lovers.
3. Villa 515
Villa 515 is a perfume shop known for its collection of authentic, original fragrance brands. The store not only sells perfumes but also offers personalized consultations to help you choose the perfect scent.
Behind the scenes, it has a lab where custom perfumes are created, allowing customers to design their own unique fragrances.
4. iFly Dubai Indoor Skydiving
iFLY Dubai offers an exciting indoor skydiving experience, allowing you to feel the thrill of flight without jumping from an airplane. It features the world’s first double skydiving simulator, using advanced technology to create a realistic flying experience.
Professional instructors provide one-on-one guidance, helping you learn how body position affects flight in the wind tunnel. The experience includes complimentary skydiving gear and offers a longer freefall time compared to traditional tandem skydiving, all at a lower cost.
iFLY Dubai is suitable for all ages, from kids to adults, and is also a great challenge for seasoned skydivers.
5. Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU)
The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) was created to help people learn about Emirati culture, traditions, and Islamic practices.
Located in the Al Fahidi Historic District in Bur Dubai, it offers a platform for visitors to gain deeper insights into the customs of the UAE.
The center provides cultural tours, talks, and experiences that promote better understanding between cultures and communities.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best tourist places in Dubai?
Apart from the above-mentioned tourist spots, some of the best places to visit in Dubai include Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, AURA SKYPOOL, Global Village, Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark, etc.
Which month is best to visit Dubai?
The best time to visit Dubai from India is typically during the winter months, from December to March. During this period, the weather in Dubai is mild and comfortable. The cool temperatures make it ideal for sightseeing, outdoor activities, and desert safaris. It’s the perfect time to explore the city without the extreme heat.
How many days in Dubai is enough?
If you are planning a trip to Dubai, a five-day stay is ideal to see all the top attractions. This amount of time allows you to explore the city’s famous landmarks and unique experiences. Dubai offers a perfect mix of luxury, style, and stunning architecture.