Dubai is the main attraction of the United Arab Emirates in terms of tourism. Besides being one of the most populated cities globally, Dubai is known for its world-class luxury. Its rapid growth in terms of the economy has Dubai listing itself as one of the most developed cities in the world.

This article explores some of the most famous spots in and outside Dubai, which have been major tourist attractions for years.

1. Burj Khalifa

Better known as the tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa showcases the architectural brilliance of Dubai. 

Burj Khalifa should be a must in your itinerary and it cannot be missed at any cost. The height of the building is approximately 828 metres with more than 150 stories.

• Highlights: The main highlight of this building is its glittery panoramic view from the 124th floor. Dubai’s nightlife looks majestic when viewed from such a height. Also, it holds a record for the tallest service elevator in the world and the highest number of occupied floors. 
• Location: Burj Khalifa is at 1 Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, UAE.
• How to Reach: Via bus, subway or car.

2. Dubai Fountains

This spectacular fountain show has been a major attraction for tourists for years. Being 900 ft in length, it is known to be the tallest performing fountain in the world and has an area equivalent to two football grounds.

It is built over the huge 30-acre Burj Lake and performs with different tunes.

• Highlights: The show commences every 30 minutes and has water dancing to different melodies. Dubai fountains make a great spot if you are a fan of water art along with a symphony of music and that too at a very inexpensive rate. The entry fee is charged at 65 AED per person.
• Location: Dubai Fountains is at Fashion Parking-Dubai Mall, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, UAE.
• How to Reach: Via bus, subway, or car.

3. Dubai Global Village

The Global Village in Dubai brings out the best of Dubai regarding shopping, culinary experiences, and attractions that will keep you hooked.

Every year it takes place during a specific period and this year it is the 28th season which will be taking place from 18th October 2023 to 28th April 2024.

• Highlights: The Global Village consists of a huge carnival, various shows and events, and pavilions and selfie spots. It offers you the opportunity to taste the extravagant lifestyle of Dubai along with its traditional handicrafts and dining, everything under the same roof. The shopaholics are going to have a great time here!
• Location: Dubai Global Village is at Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE.
• How to Reach: Via bus.

4. The Arabian Desert

The Arabian Desert is widely known as the wealthiest petroleum-producing desert in the world.  Being one of the most common features of deserts, plateaus are pretty visible around the Dead Sea.

Below the plateaus, we can find broad plains mostly covered with chert and other rocks.

• Highlights: Arabian Desert offers a wide range of activities starting from sand skiing to quad biking. However, the primary magic lies ahead of the sunset. The barbeque dinners are presented on the Arabian sands paired with cultural performances such as Belly Dancing, Fire Show, and Tanura Dance Show.
• Location: There are various sites, the most popular of which is the Red Dunes of Al Habiba.
• How to Reach: Via bus.

5. Oman

With its rich cultural and historical heritage, Oman is rapidly becoming a hotspot destination for travellers. Oman is a perfect spot for people from Dubai to spend their weekend getaway. Oman has everything, starting from the serene beaches to the stunning architecture and the tall-standing mountains.

• Highlights: Your Oman itinerary must contain the magnificent Sultan Qaboos Grand Mosque in Muscat. Apart from this, you can also enjoy the stunning mountains of Jebel Akhtar. The breathtaking places and activities in Oman will surely give you a fantastic experience.
• Location: Oman is located just beside Saudi Arabia.
• How to Reach: Via flight.

6. Petra

Petra was known to be the trade centre between Arabia, Egypt, and the Mediterranean Sea back in that time. Due to this, it grew over a very short period and became wealthy and powerful. This old city houses some stunning architecture made out of red sandstone. It is also known as the “Rose-Red City” which is half as old as time!

• Highlights: The winding paths and the narrow canyons uphold the engineering ingenuity of the ancient city. You will need at least 2 days to hike around and see the whole of Petra starting from the monasteries to the Royal Tombs. However, the whole of Petra has only one pepper restaurant that is managed by the Crowne Plaza.
• Location: Petra is located in Jordan.
• How to Reach: Via flight.

7. Maldives

Maldives is famous for its luxurious white sand beaches and abundant world-famous attractions. It houses nearly 1,1192 corals and witnesses an enchanting underwater world. If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of your modern city life, Maldives is just the place for you.

• Highlights: One of the best things in Maldives is the Kuramathi Island Resorts which have the most unique over-water villas, delicious cuisine, and undoubtedly stunning beaches. Spend your weekend snorkelling or diving in the crystal clear waters or relaxing on the beach.
• Location: Maldives is located to the southwest of Sri Lanka and India.
• How to Reach: Via flight.

8. Mahe

Mahe is the largest island in the Seychelles archipelago which makes it the most densely populated island in the whole of Seychelles. Mahe offers you limitless relaxation and adventures, starting from its mountainous landscape to sandy coves. Also, don’t forget to take your umbrella as it may start raining at any time due to its rugged topography.

• Highlights: Mahe is famous for its green rainforests, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters.  Take a stroll around the smallest city in Africa or go diving and snorkelling. You can also hike or visit all the beautiful beaches on the island. Honestly, there are so many activities, you might not be able to do all of them in a weekend!
• Location: Mahe is located in Seychelles.
• How to Reach: Via flight.

9. Galle

Galle has attracted tourists for years due to its heritage and historical richness. It is unbelievably beautiful with lots and lots of historical stories revolving around the place. Galle is also taken under a UNESCO World Heritage site which again adds to the richness of the place.

• Highlights: Some of the major attractions of Galle include Dutch colonial architecture, a very clean and charming old town filled with regular shops and cute cafes, the Galle fort, and the tall-standing lighthouse. You can also set out on a shopping spree and spend your afternoon buying souvenirs for yourself and your family.
• Location: Galle is located in Sri Lanka.
• How to Reach: Via flight.

10. Zanzibar

Even though this is quite far from the rest of the places, Zanzibar has to be on your list for weekend getaways from Dubai.  The crystal clear water, pristine beaches and vibrant culture are just a treat to the eyes. Zanzibar is a semi-autonomous nation forming a union with Tanzania. 

• Highlights: Zanzibar is quite famous for its stunning Stone Town. Apart from that, you have the chance to sail off to some of the beautiful sandbanks as well. However, if you want to relax on your weekend getaways, get yourself comfortable and relax on the exotic beaches. Lastly, adrenaline junkies might set off for snorkelling or diving to see the coral reefs and explore marine life.
• Location: It is located near Tanzania.
• How to Reach: Via flight.

11. Istanbul

Apart from being the largest city, Istanbul is the most important city in Turkey. The old city of Istanbul is located between the continents of Asia and Europe on a triangular-shaped peninsula. The climate in Istanbul is quite pleasant and is often considered to be a transition from the Mediterranean to the oceanic type of climate.

• Highlights: Starting from the magnificent Blue Mosque to the Infamous Hagia Sophia, Istanbul is a cluster of vibrant culture, stunning architecture, and a very rich historical heritage. Stroll through the lively bazaars of Istanbul and indulge yourself in the traditional delicious cuisine of Turkey.
• Location: Istanbul is located in Turkey.
• How to Reach: Via flight.