United Arab Emirates
Dubai
Dubai is the Middle East's dazzling city of superlatives: the 828-meter Burj Khalifa, the vast Dubai Mall, artificial islands, and indoor ski slopes in the desert. Yet beyond the futurism lies an older Dubai of creek-side souks, abra boats, and the Al Fahidi historic quarter that recalls its pearling past. It is a supremely easy destination — safe, English-speaking, with…
Dubai is the Middle East's dazzling city of superlatives: the 828-meter Burj Khalifa, the vast Dubai Mall, artificial islands, and indoor ski slopes in the desert. Yet beyond the futurism lies an older Dubai of creek-side souks, abra boats, and the Al Fahidi historic quarter that recalls its pearling past. It is a supremely easy destination — safe, English-speaking, with superb hotels, restaurants from every cuisine on earth, and sunshine nearly every day. Desert safaris, dhow cruises, and day trips to Abu Dhabi round out the essential Arabian experience. Old Dubai rewards explorers: the gold and spice souks, the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort, and abra crossings for a dirham. Beyond the city, dune safaris, Hatta's mountain lakes, and day trips to Abu Dhabi's Grand Mosque complete the picture. Dubai works best as a base — efficient, safe, and endlessly entertaining.
Weather in Dubai
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Top attractions
Shopping / Show
Dubai Mall & Dubai Fountain
The giant mall, aquarium, and evening fountain shows.
Historic district
Dubai Creek & Abras
Cross the creek by traditional abra boat between the souks.
Historic district
Al Fahidi Historical District
Restored wind-tower houses, museums, and art galleries.
Neighborhoods
Downtown Dubai
Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the dancing fountains.
Dubai Marina & JBR
High-rise waterfront, beaches, and The Walk.
Deira & Bur Dubai
The old city of souks, the Creek, and Al Fahidi.
Palm Jumeirah
The palm island of resorts and beach clubs.
Jumeirah
Beachfront villas, cafés, and the Burj Al Arab.
Where to stay
Live pricing and availability are not connected — check the property’s official site.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Atlantis The Royal
Rove Downtown
XVA Art Hotel
Where to eat
Live pricing and availability are not connected — check the property’s official site.
Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
Pierchic
Bu Qtair
Ravi
Zuma Dubai
Good to know
Getting around
Dubai International (DXB) is 15 minutes from downtown by metro; Al Maktoum (DWC) serves the south. The driverless Metro covers the main corridor; trams serve the Marina. Taxis are plentiful and metered, and ride-hailing apps work well. Renting a car is easy for desert and Abu Dhabi trips.
Best time to visit
November to March