25 Best Places to Visit in Dubai
From Burj Khalifa to Jumeirah Beach, thousands of tourists visit this destination every year, which is home to several spectacular attractions. With splendid architecture, exotic nightlife and a birds-eye view, Dubai needs no introduction! As every tourist spot here is happening, it is difficult to decide which ones to explore for a beautiful experience.
So, if you are ready to make your trip memorable, find below a list of the top attractions to visit in Dubai.
Currency in Dubai- The official currency in Dubai is Arab Emirates Dirham. 1 Arab Emirates Dirham equals 22.4819 Indian Rupee as on 01 March 2023*.
*Currency rates are subject to the market exchange rate.
Famous Places in Dubai You Must Visit
Dubai can be used synonymously with a pompous lifestyle and grandeur. It is extremely popular for its exquisite shopping malls, adventure and theme parks, luxury hotels, museums, zoos, beaches and many other top attractions. Let us know more about Dubai’s top attractions that attract many travellers every year.
List of Top Attractions to Visit in Dubai
1. Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai
The 160-storeyed Burj Khalifa is one of the crowning charms of Dubai no traveller should miss. It has the world's highest lounge at a jaw-dropping height of 585 metres and gives a stunning view of the clouds up close. The world's highest observation deck has a lounge including the finest tea and coffee.
- Entry Fees: AED 132 - AED 303
- Location: Burj Park by Emaar, Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd Downtown, Dubai
- Timings: For 124th & 125th Floor: Non-prime hours 10:00 am to 3:30 pm and 07:00 pm to 11:00 pm and Prime hours 4:00 pm to 6.30 pm.
For 148th,124th & 125th Floor: Non-prime hours are 07:00 pm, 08:00 pm, and 9:00 pm, and Prime hours are 12:00 pm to 6.00 pm
2. The Dubai Fountain, Downtown Dubai
Do not miss out on a marvellous experience at the Dubai Fountain, which offers the world’s tallest choreographed fountain shows, making it a unique experience for travellers. To add to the beauty, take a boat ride during the show to catch a glimpse of the Marina waters.
- Entry Fees: AED 45 Onwards
- Location: Fashion Parking, Dubai Mall - Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd - Dubai
- Timings: 6:00 pm–11:00 pm, every 30 minutes
3. Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina, West Bay
One of the best attractions in Dubai with a lovely landscape, Dubai Marina is lined with fantastic eateries and cafes with views of the water. You can also take a dinner cruise on a traditional Dhow Boat and experience the illuminated Dubai skyline as your boat sails on.
- Entry Fees: AED 180 (Adult) and AED 125 (Child 5 – 11 years)
- Location: Dubai Marina Yacht Club, West Bay, Berth A11, Dubai Marina
- Timings: 9:00 pm-10:30 pm, daily
4. Dubai Frame, Al Kifaf
An iconic frame structure promising breathtaking views of old and new Dubai, walk across the glass ceiling of Dubai Frame, joining the two frame sides. You can view several attractions in Dubai, such as the Burj Khalifa and Jumeirah Mosque, as you peep through this beautiful frame. On the first floor of the Frame, there is the Old Dubai Gallery, which features multimedia displays of the city's history.
- Entry Fees: AED 48 - AED 73
- Location: Zabeel Park, Dubai
- Timings: 9:00 am-9:00 pm, daily
5. Ain Dubai, Bluewaters Island
World’s tallest and largest observation wheel, the Ain Dubai, stands at a height of 25 metres above the ground. You can take a ride here, and as your capsule reaches the highest point, enjoy some breathtaking views of the city. If you wish to have a different experience, choose the sunset ride and treat your eyes by looking at the most beautiful sunset views.
- Entry Fees: AED 92- AED 155
- Location: Bluewaters Island, Dubai
- Timings: 9:00 am-6:00 pm
6. Dubai Opera, Downtown Dubai
Another best place to visit in Dubai is the Dubai Opera which focuses on the culture and expressions in Dubai. This Opera houses several musical shows, artful dances, traditional shows, jazz, drama, theatre and a lot of live entertainment. What more? Its exceptional 2000-situate multi-arrange theatre will surely attract your attention.
- Entry Fees: AED 95- AED 950
- Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid, Near Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai
- Timings: 10:00 am-9:00 pm
7. Jumeirah Mosque, Jumeirah Beach Road
Jumeirah Mosque, made out of white stone, offers a spectacular sight during the day and night as well. This mosque can accommodate up to 1200 worshippers. You will find a large stunning dome at the centre and praise the architecture of the monument. The real beauty of this structure is at night when the mosque is lit up, and you can enjoy the fine artistry highlighted wonderfully.
- Entry Fees: Free
- Location: Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah 1, Dubai
- Timings: 10:00 am daily except Friday
8. Al Bastakiya Town, Bur Dubai
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, also known as Al Bastakiya, is an ideal place for adventure buffs who are excited to explore old ruins. Walk down the sandy lanes to the modern white mosque and gaze at the wonderful architectural details of the coral limestone buildings surrounding you. Take a stroll upstairs for the incredible view of Bastakia rooftops and take pictures of the wind towers.
- Entry Fees: Free
- Location: Al Hamriya, Bur Dubai, Dubai
- Timings: 9:00 am-6:00 pm daily
9. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Sharjah
A wonderful initiative by the Dubai Government, you can spend a memorable time here camping in the deserts and enjoy dining under the starlit sky. Enjoy the Bedouin lifestyle, camel safari, and falcon shows to get the essence of Dubai’s culture. In addition, this reserve allows various activities such as Falconry, Horse Riding, Archery, Camping, Dune Driving, and Hookah.
- Entry Fees: AED 90 - AED 99
- Location: Sharjah, Dubai
- Timings: 7:00 am-5:00 pm
List of Top Beaches to Visit in Dubai
The sun-kissed beaches have always attracted a large number of tourists every year. Be ready to explore the destinations with your bunch of buddies or try enjoying some moments at the luxurious shacks. Here is a list of the top beaches you must visit in Dubai:
10. Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah District
The largest beach and one of the top places to visit with family in Dubai, spend a day opting for a quick dip in the amazing blue waters of Jumeirah Beach. Soak your feet in the white sands and enjoy the warmth of the sun, apart from trying your hands at some watersports that this beach offers for tourists. You can also go banana boating and doughnut boating if you want to have a different beach experience.
- Entry Fees: AED 90- AED 138
- Location: Jumeirah District, Dubai
- Timings: 9:00 pm-6:30 pm (timings for water sports)
11. Kite Beach, Umm Suqeim Area
Bustling with tourists throughout the year, Kite Beach offers serenity as the white texture of the soft sands relaxes your soul. In addition, you can have a majestic view of the Burj-Al- Arab from this beach. Although kite flying is a major sport here, you can also enjoy volleyball, kayaking, soap football and beach tennis here.
- Entry Fees: AED 90- AED 138
- Location: Umm Suqeim Area, Near Jumeirah Neighbourhood, Dubai
- Timings: 9:00 pm-6:30 pm (timings for water sports)
12. Sunset Beach, Near Umm Suqeim Park
Sunset Beach is also known as Umm Suqeim Beach and is a great place to recline away from the bustling city. This place is beautifully arched with the trails of coconut plantations. One of the best beaches in Dubai, Sunset Beach offers a host of water adventures such as - surfing, kite surfing, kite surfing and more.
- Entry Fees: Free
- Location: Front of Umm Suqeim Park, Dubai
- Timings: Open 24 hours
13. Al Sufouh Beach, Between Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah Island
If you wish to spend some time relaxing with your family, Al Sufouh Beach is an ideal one. Another best attraction in Dubai, this beach is nicknamed the ‘Secret Beach’. This is because rows of palm trees hide the beach from the bustling city crowd. Serenity is what you will enjoy here as the white waves rush towards the lovely shores soaking your feet.
- Entry Fees: Free
- Location: 44 33a Street, Dubai
- Timings: Open 24 hours
List of Top Gardens and Theme Parks to Visit in Dubai
One of the best ways to enjoy your holiday in Dubai is by visiting the theme parks and gardens. Unique for people of all ages, these gardens and theme parks offer several exciting activities to tourists. Here are the top gardens and theme parks to visit in Dubai:
14. Dubai Miracle Garden, Al Barsha South
One of the best places to visit in Dubai, Dubai Miracle Garden offers a display of more than 150 million flowers. You will admire the artwork of the Floral Clock, which is a superb flower-covered clock changing its appearance with the seasons! You can also pose for a shot at the Sunflower Field and take a shot in one of the Gardens' fantastic photogenic alleyways.
- Entry Fees: AED 117 - AED 185
- Location: Al Barsha South 3, Barsha, Dubailand Area, Dubai
- Timings: 9:00 am-6:00 pm(Sunday to Friday) and 9:00 am-9:00 pm (Saturday Only)
15. Dubai Garden Glow, Zabeel Park
It is one of the largest ‘glow-in-the-dark gardens’ made of yards of recycled luminous fabric and millions of energy-saving LED lights. Here, you will witness how art and technology come together to create outstanding art installations. Explore artworks across four zones in the park - Glow Park, Dinosaur Park, Magic Park, and Art Park, some of the best places to see in Dubai.
- Entry Fees: AED 48- AED 68
- Location: Zabeel Park, Gate No. 6 & 7, Area-B, Dubai
- Timings: 5:00 am-10:30 pm(Sunday to Thursday) and 5:00 am-11:00 pm (Friday)
16. Ferrari Park, Yas Island
If you are willing to spend an exciting day, head on to the Ferrari World, which is a Ferrari-themed adventure park globally. You get to have a chance to drive your own Ferrari across this park or take a ride on the fastest rollercoaster in the world, the Formula Rossa. In addition, explore the best of global dining with the restaurants at Ferrari World, which include - Il Podio, Mama Rossella and Espresso Rosso, respectively.
- Entry Fees: AED 241- AED 268
- Location: Yas Island, 128717, Abu Dhabi, Dubai
- Timings: 11:00 am-6:00 pm(Sunday to Wednesday) and 11:00 am-10:00 pm (Thursday to Saturday)
17. Bollywood Park, Sheikh Zayed Road
The first amusement park in the world dedicated to Bollywood, the Bollywood Park offers a unique experience where you can take a spin on the Bollywood Skyflyer. In addition, witness a live presentation of traditional dances of India performed on Bollywood Boulevard's streets. You can also admire the unique architecture of the Rajmahal Theater, inspired by Agra's Taj Mahal.
- Entry Fees: AED 146- AED 175
- Location: Opposite Palm Jebel Ali, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
- Timings: 3:00 pm-11:00 pm(Saturday and Sunday)
18. Wild Wadi Water Park, Jumeirah Street
Wild Wadi Park offers thrilling rides, all based around Sinbad’s legendary stories. You can slide down the Jumeirah Sceirah, the fastest and tallest water slide in the Middle East. In addition, enjoy the waves in Breaker's Bay, the Gulf Region's largest wave pool and play water cannon war with your friends and family.
- Entry Fees: AED 177- AED 296
- Location: Jumeirah Street, Opp. Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah 2, Dubai
- Timings: 10:00 am-6:00 pm(Sunday to Thursday)
List of Top Aquariums and Underwater Zoo to Visit in Dubai
Underwater adventures have always mesmerised people, and Dubai has some excellent aquariums and underwater zoos that tourists can visit. Here is a list of the top underwater zoos one can visit:
19. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Downtown Dubai
Undoubtedly, one of the top places to visit in Dubai is the Dubai Underwater Zoo. It is the world's largest suspended aquarium holding 10 million litres of water. You can find more than 140 aquatic animals, including 300 species of sharks and stingrays. The place is ideal for a visit with family. The aquarium is 51 metres long and 20 metres wide.
- Entry Fees: AED 70- AED 89
- Location: 3rd Floor, Dubai Mall, Financial Center Street, Sheik Zayed Road, Next to Burj Khalifa, Dubai
- Timings: Sunday to Wednesday- 10:00 am to 10:00 pm and Thursday to Saturday - 10:00 am to 12:00 am
20. Dubai Lost Chambers Aquarium, The Palm Jumeirah
Find amazing marine life and myriads of sea creatures at Dubai’s Lost Chambers Aquarium as you discover the richness of flora and fauna in this aqua space. Make your way through the glass tunnels that offer a unique experience as you watch underwater paradises such as sharks, sea horses, lobsters and many more.
- Entry Fees: AED 95- AED 135
- Location: Atlantis, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
- Timings: 10:00 am-9:00 pm
List of Top Museums to Visit in Dubai
Dubai offers a glimpse of its rich heritage as you visit the exquisite museums that store a lot of history. Here are some top museums you must visit in Dubai:
21. Museum of Future, Sheikh Zayed Road
One of the best tourist places to visit in Dubai, the Museum of Future is dedicated to exploring the future by focusing on how the world might appear after a few years. You can take the Journey to the Future and learn more about how astronauts survive in space.
- Entry Fees: AED 149
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre 2, Dubai
- Timings: 10:00 am-7:30 pm
22. Museum of Illusions, Al Seef
Trick your eyes with the Museum of Illusions, promising power-packed entertainment. You experience illusions such as the Vortex Tunnel, Rotating cylinder, etc. This museum features a room that defies gravity as you see yourself upside down after entering this space!
- Entry Fees: AED 69 - AED 77
- Location: Al Seef, Dubai Creek, Dubai
- Timings: 10:00 am–10:00 pm (Sunday to Thursday) and 10:00 am–11:00 pm (Friday and Saturday)
23. Saeed Al Maktoum House Museum, Al Khaleej Road
This is a historic building and former residential house of one of the old-time rulers of the Emirates- Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum Al Maktoum. It makes this spot one of the best places to visit in Dubai due to its historic significance. The building is now converted into a museum housing an array of artefacts from the Arabian world.
- Entry Fees: AED 5 - AED 15
- Location: Al Khaleej Road, Bur Dubai, Dubai
- Timings: Monday to Sunday, 8:00 am- 8:30 pm, except on Friday, 3:00 pm- 8:30 pm
List of Top Malls to Visit in Dubai
Dubai is an ideal destination for the ones who love shopping. From having the world’s largest mall, there are hundreds of brands, numerous cafes and several entertainment zones in these shopping centres.
24. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
some entertainment or just want to spend some time shopping, this place is an ideal zone. From an underwater aquarium to kids playing areas, Dubai Mall offers numerous entertainment facilities to everyone visiting here.
- Entry Fees: Free
- Location: Downtown Dubai, Dubai
- Timings: 10:00 am to 12:00 am
25. Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road
attractions in Dubai. Although you will find numerous cafes, restaurants, and shops that have hundreds of high-end brands, and theatres, the main attraction lies where you have the walk-in chilling freezer, which takes you to Ski Dubai.
- Entry Fees: Free
- Location: Mall of The Emirates, E11 Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
- Timings: 10:00 am to 12:00 am
FAQs About Top Tourist Places to Visit in Dubai
What does Ibn Battuta Mall offer for tourists visiting Dubai?
Ibn Battuta Mall is the largest theme-based mall in the world. It offers a variety of international cuisines and an immersive shopping experience. Watching movies, gaming, bowling, and several other leisure activities galore at Ibn Battuta Mall.
What is the best time to visit Dubai?
September is the ideal time to visit Dubai, as flights are available for lower rates. Dubai tour packages are generally available at inexpensive rates depending on the number of days and nights of your stay.
What are the main highlights of Bur Dubai Village in Dubai?
Dubai Heritage Village, or Bur Bur Village, is an ideal place to find unique handmade items as souvenirs. The main highlights of this place include pottery shopping and enjoying the live performances of Arabian folklore such as Raza, Ayyala, and Harbeya.
What is special about Hatta Heritage Village in Dubai?
It is among the top places to visit with family in Dubai as it holds a mystic charm. A visit to the Al Hajar mountains is a refreshing spiritual experience. The houses are made of ancient stones and are a delight for tourists. There are about 17 houses and a gigantic fortress.
What is special about World Islands in Dubai?
World Island in Dubai comprises 300 private islands that are divided into estate homes, private homes, resorts, and community islands.
What does Dubai Spice Souk offer?
Located in the district of Deira, Dubai Spice Souk is a traditional spice market in Dubai that promises a variety of fragrant spices. It’s a paradise and has a series of aromatic spices only available in this part of the Middle East.
Where is Dolphin Bay located in Dubai?
It is yet another attraction in Dubai and is located in - Atlantis, The Palm, Crescent Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
What are the timings of Bur Dubai Village?
Bur Dubai Village is open every day from 08:00 am to 8:00 pm. However, on Fridays, many shops will be closed as the operational hours are 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm.
What are the various zones in Ibn Battuta Mall in Dubai?
The mall is divided into six zones, namely- China Court, India Court, Persia Court, Egypt Court, Tunisia Court, and Andalusia Court.
Can destination weddings be planned in Dubai?
Yes. Dubai is one of the great spots for planning your dream destination wedding. However, it is advised to check for any restrictions per the current COVID-19 guidelines.