From Burj Khalifa to Palm Jumeirah, here are Dubai's must-see attractions

Things to do in Dubai

Dubai is a city that must be seen to be believed. Record-breaking architecture stands alongside traditional quarters, while man-made islands dot the coastline. Here are the top places to tick off your sightseeing list when you’re in town.

Discover a truly unique view from the top

Burj Khalifa

Iconic Dubai

Standing 828 metres high, the Burj Khalifa is hard to miss. The world's tallest tower naturally dominates the Dubai skyline, but the true majesty of the building is best appreciated up close or, even better, from inside. On a clear day, the view from the observation deck on level 124 is absolutely stunning, topped only by the view from the luxurious At The Top Sky Lounge on the 148th floor. And for those who would like to linger for a meal in the clouds, At.mosphere on level 122 is the place to be.

REDEFINE THE MEANING OF SHOPPING

The Dubai Mall

A shopper’s paradise

The Dubai Mall is one of the world's largest shopping malls in UAE. Shopaholics will rejoice at The Dubai Mall - the world’s largest destination for shopping, entertainment and leisure located next to the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Featuring over 1,200 retail stores, two anchor department stores and hundreds of food and beverage outlets, The Dubai Mall covers more than 1 million sqm – an area equivalent to 200 football pitches.

WITNESS WATER DANCE IN THE CENTRE OF DOWNTOWN DUBAI

The Dubai Fountain

An awe-inspiring show

The Dubai Fountain, located at the base of the iconic Burj Khalifa and just outside the doors of The Dubai Mall, features the world's largest choreographed fountain system. This popular dancing water show jets water streams as high as 150 metres in the air. Each colourful, illuminated jet sways in time to various musical numbers from around the world, producing what has become the one of the most popular shows in Dubai. Two showings occur in the afternoon (1pm and 1:30pm), except on Fridays (1:30pm to 2pm) and evening displays begin at sundown and take place every 30 minutes until the final song plays at 11pm.

STROLL ALONG THE WATER BENEATH THIS URBAN SKYLINE

Dubai Marina

Stunning cityscape

Look into the future at the world's largest man-made marina, Dubai Marina. Marvel at some of the world's tallest apartment buildings as you stroll along Dubai Marina Walk or see it from the water as you set sail.

TRAVERSE DUBAI’S DESERT DUNES

Desert Safari

A majestic landscape

Less than 20 minutes driving from the modernist streets of Downtown Dubai, you can experience the marvels of the Arabian Desert, the original tourist attraction of Dubai. Take a desert safari Dubai-style with off-roading, quad biking and sandboarding followed by traditional barbecues, henna and camel rides. Or just drive out and experience the wonder of the desert on an adventure of your own. Those looking for luxury should indulge in a Heritage Dinner Safari. Can't get enough in a day? Treat yourself to an unforgettable night amid the dunes at the Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa or Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa.

DISCOVER OLD AND NEW DUBAI FROM ONE UNIQUE PERSPECTIVE

Dubai Frame

A tale of two cities

Dubai Frame is one of the newest additions to the city’s skyline and represents a remarkable engineering feat. Situated in Dubai’s Zabeel Park and directly between old and new Dubai, the towering structure offers sweeping panoramic views of the city from 150m high. One of its most amazing features is the state-of-the-art clear glass bridge connecting parallel vertical towers to create the shape of a picture frame. Dubai Frame has quickly become a must-see attraction for the city’s visitors and residents alike.