43 Best Places to Visit in Dubai, UAE: Top Attractions in 2026

Dubai is the largest city in the United Arab Emirates and one of the most exciting places I have ever visited. The city is famous for breaking world records: the tallest skyscraper, the biggest Ferris wheel, luxury hotels, and even an indoor ski slope in the middle of the desert.

What I love most is how many different experiences the city offers: beautiful beaches where you can swim in winter, traditional Arab souks, stunning skyline views, modern attractions, and a multicultural food scene that you could explore for weeks. Dubai is also one of the safest places to travel, and it’s much more welcoming and modern than many people expect.

In this guide, I’ll show you the 43 best places to visit in Dubai, from the most famous landmarks to unique hidden gems. Whether you love culture, beaches, food, or unforgettable viewpoints, you’ll find plenty of ideas for your next trip.

First, I’ll give you a quick overview of the best places, and then you’ll find the full list of all 43 attractions with useful details for each one. At the end of the article, you can also read general tips you should know before traveling to Dubai.

Let’s get started!

Detailed list of the 43 best places in Dubai: Top attractions and what to know about them

So, here is the full list of the 43 best places to visit in Dubai, with a short description of each one, to help you choose the perfect spots for your next trip.

As I mentioned above, I divided the attractions into 6 categories to make everything easier to follow.

Let’s take a look at them one by one:

Must-see attractions in Dubai: Absolute highlights

These are the top 10 places every traveler wants to see when visiting Dubai:

1. Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is Dubai’s most famous landmark and the tallest building in the world at 828 meters.

You can see it from almost anywhere in the city, but standing right under it is an unforgettable experience.

The entrance to the observation decks is inside Dubai Mall, under the name “At The Top”. You can visit the 124th and 125th floors, or go higher for premium lounges on the 148th or 152nd floors.

I recommend visiting before sunset so you can enjoy the daytime view and watch the skyline light up at night. Plan around 2–3 hours for your visit.

2. Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping centers in the world and a true attraction, not just a shopping mall.

You’ll find hundreds of shops, cafés, restaurants, an ice rink, an indoor waterfall, a dinosaur skeleton, and the famous Dubai Aquarium.

It’s a perfect place for lunch, exploring, or simply enjoying the shopping on a hot day.

Parking is easy in the huge garage areas, and from here you can walk comfortably to the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain.

Don’t miss the photo spots outside, including the “Wings of Mexico” and the “I Love Dubai” sign.

3. Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain offers one of the most beautiful fountain shows in the world, located right next to Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa.

The water, music, and light show takes place every 15–30 minutes from the evening until late at night.

The Dubai Fountain show is free to watch. The best viewpoints are the bridge near Souk Al Bahar or the lakeside restaurants.

For a special experience, you can also take a short boat ride on Burj Lake during the show.

It’s a perfect way to end your evening in Downtown Dubai and one of the must-see attractions for every visitor.

4. Museum of the Future

The Museum of the Future is one of Dubai’s most unique modern buildings, instantly recognizable thanks to its silver oval shape and Arabic calligraphy cutouts.

Even if you don’t go inside, the architecture alone is worth the visit.

Inside, the museum showcases Dubai’s vision of the future with exhibitions about space, sustainability, technology, and artificial intelligence.

Tickets often sell out weeks in advance, so book online early.

The best photo spots are from Sheikh Zayed Road or near the Jumeirah Emirates Towers. Sometimes you may even see peacocks walking around the nearby gardens — a fun surprise in the city.

5. Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame is one of the most impressive viewing platforms in the city. Shaped like a giant golden picture frame, it connects old and new Dubai with a 150-meter-high sky bridge.

From the top, you get a panoramic view of Downtown’s skyscrapers on one side and Old Dubai on the other.

Inside, interactive exhibits show how the city has changed over the decades.

One of the highlights is the glass walkway, which turns transparent when you step on it. It’s a fun challenge even for those who are not afraid of heights.

6. Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is one of the most vibrant districts in the city, known for its tall skyscrapers, waterfront promenade, and lively atmosphere. It’s a perfect place for a relaxing walk, a dinner with a view, or a boat tour.

You can connect your visit with JBR Beach or walk all the way to Bluewaters Island.

The area is full of cafés, restaurants, and beach clubs, making it one of the best places to enjoy Dubai’s modern lifestyle.

One of my favorite restaurants in the Marina is KOBEYa. It’s a Japanese restaurant that offers delicious gluten-free dishes. Such a great spot!

It’s especially beautiful at sunset, when the lights begin to reflect on the water and the whole marina comes alive.

7. Bluewaters Island

Bluewaters Island is one of Dubai’s most beautifully designed and relaxing areas, perfect for an evening walk. You can reach it on foot from Dubai Marina via a pedestrian bridge or arrive by car.

The island offers amazing skyline views, stylish architecture, and a vibrant atmosphere.

The main highlight here is Ain Dubai, the world’s largest Ferris wheel, but there’s much more to enjoy. Bluewaters has great restaurants and cafés, including my personal favorite, Pastamamma, which also has gluten-free options. Or, for a special dining experience, try The Pods, one of the island’s most impressive restaurants.

You can also visit Madame Tussauds Dubai, explore the boutique shops, or buy souvenirs at good prices.

8. Ain Dubai

Ain Dubai, located on Bluewaters Island, is the world’s largest Ferris wheel and one of the most impressive structures ever built.

A full rotation takes around 38 minutes and offers a breathtaking view of the Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, JBR Beach, and Downtown Dubai.

The best time to ride is before sunset, so you can see the skyline in daylight and later in the evening lights. Be prepared for long lines on busy days.

Even if you don’t ride it, seeing Ain Dubai up close is a must.

📸 Photo tip: For the best Ferris wheel photos, walk west of Ain Dubai — the view is perfect.

9. Global Village

Global Village is one of Dubai’s most popular evening attractions, open only during the winter season. It combines a world market, amusement park, food festival, and cultural event area all in one place.

You can walk through dozens of pavilions representing different countries, try food from around the world, watch live performances, and enjoy funfair rides.

It’s perfect for families, couples, and groups of friends, the atmosphere is lively and colorful.

Although the entrance ticket is affordable, many activities inside require extra payment. Parking can be expensive near the entrance, so it’s better to park a bit farther and walk.

10. Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Miracle Garden is the largest flower garden in the world, featuring millions of flowers arranged in creative shapes.

It’s one of the most photogenic places in Dubai, known for its heart-shaped tunnel, colorful pathways, and huge floral sculptures, including a life-size Emirates A380 plane made entirely of flowers.

The garden is open only in the cooler months (usually November to April), and every season brings new themes and designs.

It can get crowded in the afternoon, so try to visit earlier.

Even with the crowds, it’s a truly magical place and one of Dubai’s top attractions.

Best luxury spots with a view

Dubai offers an incredible number of luxury places, but I’d like to highlight a few that offer the best views:

11. Sky Views Dubai

Sky Views is one of the best viewpoints in the city, located in the Address Sky View Hotel. From here, you get an incredible view of Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa.

The observatory has a glass walkway and a glass slide, both offering thrilling views high above the city.

If you want an even bigger adventure, you can try the Sky Views Edge Walk, the highest full-circle hands-free walk in Dubai, right on the edge of the tower.

After enjoying the view, you can relax in the café or restaurant inside, which makes the visit even more pleasant.

12. CÉ LA VI Dubai

CÉ LA VI Dubai is one of the most impressive restaurants in the city, located in the same Address Sky View Hotel. It’s a true luxury spot, and I recommend booking a table in advance because it’s very popular.

Despite the elegant atmosphere, the prices are surprisingly reasonable for a place of this quality. Their business lunch is especially good value, and you can enjoy your meal with a breathtaking view of the Burj Khalifa.

They also take dietary needs seriously. In my case, they were very careful with gluten-free dishes.

If you want a memorable dining experience with the most amazing views, this place is a must.

13. AURA Skypool

AURA Skypool is one of Dubai’s most stylish luxury pools, known for its impressive 360-degree views.

It’s located in the same building as The View Palm Jumeirah (listed below), so the panorama is just as stunning.

The pool is very popular, and tickets often sell out quickly, so make sure to book well in advance. Prices are higher than average, but the experience truly feels luxurious.

It’s a great choice if you want a relaxing day in a beautiful setting, with postcard-worthy views of the Palm Jumeirah and the Dubai skyline. Perfect for travelers looking to add a touch of luxury to their trip.

Best beaches & waterfront walks

Beachfront places for relaxing walks and swimming:

14. Dubai Creek Harbour

Dubai Creek Harbour is one of the city’s most beautiful and fast-growing waterfront areas. It has a long promenade, stylish cafés and restaurants, and a stunning skyline view of Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa.

I always return here when I’m in Dubai. It’s quiet, modern, and perfect for a relaxing walk by the water. You can spend a few calm hours enjoying the view, taking photos, and trying one of the restaurants.

Two of my favorite places are the Vida Creek Harbour hotel and the Soulgreen restaurant, which also offers delicious gluten-free dishes.

It’s a great spot for both mornings and evenings.

15. JBR Beach

JBR Beach is one of Dubai’s most popular beaches, perfect for swimming, relaxing, or enjoying a walk along the coast.

The area is full of restaurants, cafés, and beach clubs, and you’ll have beautiful views of Ain Dubai and the Address Beach Resort.

It’s a lively place with a fun atmosphere, suitable for families, couples, and groups.

You can try water sports, take a camel ride, or join a boat trip from the nearby Bluewaters Marine Transport Station.

Even if you’re not planning to swim, JBR is a great place to enjoy the day and spend a pleasant afternoon by the sea.

16. Kite Beach

Kite Beach is one of Dubai’s most loved public beaches, known for its clean white sand, wide jogging track, and relaxed atmosphere.

It’s a great place for both swimming and outdoor activities. On windy days, you can watch kite surfers, which is how the beach got its name.

There are also many food trucks and small cafés along the waterfront, making it perfect for a casual lunch or sunset snack.

The beach offers great views of the Burj Al Arab in the distance, and it’s ideal if you want a simple, lively, and active beach experience.

17. Al Mamzar Beach Park

Al Mamzar Beach Park is one of Dubai’s most peaceful and underrated beach areas, perfect if you want a quiet escape from the busy city.

The park has beautiful beaches with soft white sand, calm turquoise water, and plenty of space to relax. You’ll also find shaded picnic areas, walking paths, playgrounds, and barbecue spots, making it ideal for families and couples alike.

Because there is a small entrance fee, the beach is usually less crowded than JBR or Kite Beach. It’s a wonderful place to unwind and enjoy a more peaceful side of Dubai.

18. Palm West Beach

Palm West Beach is one of Dubai’s most stylish beach areas, located on the trunk of Palm Jumeirah. It’s perfect for a relaxing day by the water, with soft sand, modern sunbeds, and a long line of beachside restaurants and bars.

The atmosphere is calm and elegant, making it great for both daytime relaxation and evening dinners by the sea. You’ll have beautiful views of the skyline and the Dubai Marina area. Many of the restaurants here offer great cocktails and brunch menus.

It’s one of the best places to enjoy a beach day in a more upscale setting.

Best cultural & historic places in Dubai

Markets and traditional Arabic neighborhoods where you can discover the city’s authentic side:

19. Al Seef Street

Al Seef Street is one of the best places to experience the atmosphere of Old Dubai.

It’s a beautiful waterfront area built in a traditional Arabic style, with narrow streets, old-style houses, cozy cafés, and many small shops. It’s perfect for a slow walk, taking photos, and enjoying the traditional side of the city.

Don’t miss the famous Starbucks Al Seef, designed like a traditional Arabic house. It’s considered one of the most beautiful Starbucks stores in the world.

This area is great for both daytime and evening visits, and it’s a nice escape from the crowded modern districts.

20. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Al Fahidi is also one of Dubai’s oldest districts, and it shows how the city looked before the modern skyline existed.

Here you’ll find restored wind-tower houses, small museums, art galleries, and quiet courtyards. It’s a peaceful area ideal for walking and exploring local history.

You can visit places like the Coffee Museum or the local cultural centers.

This area feels completely different from the rest of Dubai, and it gives you a real taste of traditional Emirati architecture. If you want to understand the city beyond its luxury side, this place is a must.

21. Dubai Spice Souk

The Dubai Spice Souk is a lively traditional market located across the Dubai Creek.

It’s full of colorful spices, teas, herbs, nuts, and dried fruits. The smell of cinnamon, saffron, and cardamom fills the air as you walk through the narrow alleys. Vendors often invite you to try samples and negotiate prices, which is part of the experience.

It can be busy, but it’s one of the most authentic places to explore in Dubai.

To reach it, take a short abra boat ride from the Old Dubai side. It’s cheap, quick, and one of the most local experiences you can have.

22. Dubai Gold Souk

The Dubai Gold Souk is one of the world’s most famous gold markets, filled with endless jewelry shops and impressive window displays.

Even if you don’t plan to buy anything, it’s fun to walk around and see the craftsmanship.

The souk is located next to the Spice Souk and can also be reached by a short abra ride across Dubai Creek.

The atmosphere is lively and traditional, and bargaining is common.

It’s one of the best places to experience the authentic market culture of Dubai.

23. Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a modern market designed to look like a traditional Arabic souk. It has beautiful canals, narrow alleys, wooden bridges, and cozy shops selling souvenirs, jewelry, spices, and local crafts.

It’s a charming place to wander, take photos, or stop for a coffee or lunch.

One of the highlights is the incredible view of the Burj Al Arab, visible from many terraces and walkways.

It’s one of Dubai’s most beautiful spots with a mix of tradition and modernity.

Best places in Dubai for families with kids

The best theme parks and family-friendly activities in Dubai:

24. IMG Worlds of Adventure

IMG Worlds of Adventure is perfect for you if you want a full day of fun in an indoor theme park with your kids.

You’ll find rides and shows based on Marvel, Cartoon Network, dinosaurs, and more.

It’s great on very hot or rainy days, because everything is indoors.

If you love roller coasters, characters, and themed zones, this is one of the best places to visit in Dubai with kids.

25. Aquaventure Waterpark

Aquaventure, located at Atlantis The Palm, is the ideal choice if you want a thrilling waterpark experience.

You can easily spend the whole day here. You’ll find massive slides, relaxing rivers, a kids’ area, and even a private beach.

It’s perfect for you if your family loves swimming, water fun, and adventurous activities.

26. KidZania – Dubai Mall

KidZania is amazing if your children love pretending and learning about real-life jobs. Here, kids can try more than 60 professions: like being pilots, doctors, firefighters, chefs, or journalists.

It’s a safe, organized mini-city designed just for kids.

If you want an activity that is both fun and educational, KidZania is the perfect choice during your Dubai Mall visit.

27. Motiongate Dubai

Motiongate Dubai is a great choice if you love Hollywood movies.

The park has themed areas based on Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, The Smurfs, and more.

There are gentle rides for kids, fun shows, and big roller coasters for older visitors.

It’s a full-day activity with many indoor areas, so you can enjoy it in any season.

28. Legoland Dubai

Legoland Dubai is perfect for you if you’re visiting with younger children, or if you or your kids love LEGO.

The park has colorful LEGO-themed rides, building areas, and playful shows.

One of the highlights is Miniland, where famous buildings are made from millions of LEGO bricks.

Since Legoland is located right next to Motiongate, visiting both in one day can be a great program for families with children.

Extra attractions: If you have more time

Colorful and unique experiences, perfect for a longer trip to Dubai if you’re looking for extra attractions or something less crowded in the city:

29. Dubai Garden Glow

Dubai Garden Glow is a colorful evening park filled with illuminated sculptures and creative light displays.

It’s great for you if you enjoy relaxed walks, family-friendly attractions, and fun photo spots.

The park has different themed zones, including Dinosaur Park and Art Park.

It’s only open in the cooler months, so check the season before your visit.

30. AYA Universe

AYA Universe is perfect if you like futuristic installations, lights, and interactive art.

Located in Wafi Mall, it features 12 themed rooms where you walk through digital gardens, glowing galaxies, and visual effects.

It’s fully indoor, budget-friendly, and a great choice for a unique activity in Dubai.

31. The View Palm Jumeirah

The View Palm Jumeirah is an observation deck offering one of the best panoramas of Palm Jumeirah.

From here, you can see the island’s full shape, the Atlantis hotels, the sea, and the Marina skyline.

Tickets are affordable compared to other viewpoints.

Visit on a clear day for the best photos.

32. Madame Tussauds Dubai

Madame Tussauds Dubai is great if you enjoy fun photo moments with lifelike wax figures of celebrities, athletes, and movie characters.

It’s located on Bluewaters Island, making it easy to combine with Ain Dubai or a walk along the waterfront.

A quick, entertaining indoor stop for all ages.

33. Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab is Dubai’s most famous hotel, known for its sail-shaped design and luxurious reputation.

You can admire it from the outside for free, or book a guided tour to see the interior.

It’s located on its own artificial island and is one of the city’s most photographed buildings.

34. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo – Dubai Mall

Located inside Dubai Mall, this aquarium is perfect if you want to see sharks, rays, and colorful fish up close.

The underwater tunnel is a highlight, and the zoo section features many unique animals.

It’s a great place to visit in Dubai Mall, and enjoyable for both adults and kids.

35. Dubai Butterfly Garden

Dubai Butterfly Garden is a quieter, colorful place where you can walk among thousands of butterflies in climate-controlled domes.

It’s located next to the Miracle Garden and is perfect if you enjoy nature, photography, or a calm activity away from the crowds.

36. Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai, inside Mall of the Emirates, lets you enjoy winter sports in the middle of the desert. You can ski, snowboard, play in the snow, or meet the penguins.

It’s a fantastic option if you want a unique experience or need a fun indoor escape from Dubai’s heat.

37. The Green Planet

The Green Planet is an indoor bio-dome filled with tropical plants, birds, and animals.

It feels like stepping into a rainforest, with waterfalls, bridges, and interactive exhibits.

It’s perfect for nature lovers and families looking for a calm indoor activity in any season.

38. Expo City Dubai

Expo City Dubai was created from the former Expo 2020 site and is now a modern area full of pavilions, cafés, gardens, and futuristic architecture.

You can visit attractions like Terra Pavilion or Garden in the Sky.

Tickets are affordable, and it’s a great half-day activity.

39. Love Lake & Al Qudra Lakes

Al Qudra Lakes is a peaceful desert oasis ideal for picnics, bird-watching, and sunset walks.

The famous Love Lake, shaped like two hearts, is nearby and offers romantic views.

It’s a perfect escape from the city, about 45 minutes from Dubai.

Bring water and snacks, and visit before sunset for the best experience.

40. Dubai Safari Park

Dubai Safari Park is a large wildlife park where you can see animals from around the world in natural-style enclosures.

It’s great for families and animal lovers.

You can explore the different zones by bus or on foot, and it’s a nice outdoor activity during the cooler months.

41. Hatta

Hatta is a great day trip destination if you want a peaceful break from Dubai. It officially belongs to the Emirate of Dubai, even though it’s located farther away in the mountains.

It’s about a 2-hour drive, and there is also a cheap bus if you don’t want to drive.

The main highlight is the Hatta Reservoir, where you can rent a kayak or paddle boat. You can park in a lower lot and take a free shuttle to the dam.

Nearby, you can also visit the Hatta Sign, Leem Lake, Al Wadi Park, and the Hatta Fort Roundabout.

42. Half Desert

The Half Desert area is famous for its roads partially covered by sand dunes.

It’s easy to reach by car, and it’s a great place for unique photos, quiet walks, or short picnics.

This is also the location of the famous “desert road to the skyline” photos. Most of them are edited, but the real place is still impressive and definitely worth seeing.

43. Dubai desert safari

A desert safari is one of the most exciting things you can do in Dubai.

It’s perfect for you if you want adventure, beautiful desert views, and a little bit of local culture.

A typical safari includes dune bashing in a 4×4 vehicle, sunset photo stops, sandboarding, camel rides, and a Bedouin-style dinner with shows. It’s touristy, but still a must-do experience.

You can choose between morning, evening, or private safaris.

If it’s your first time in Dubai, I highly recommend the sunset tour, the golden light over the dunes is unforgettable.

So this was the list of the 43 best places to see in Dubai.

If you’ve decided to travel to Dubai, keep reading! I’ll share more tips you should know before you go.

Frequently Asked Questions: What you should know before planning a trip to Dubai

Here are some general travel tips that will help you prepare for your trip:

How to get to Dubai

Unless you’re traveling from a nearby country, the best way to reach Dubai is by plane.

Most international flights arrive at Dubai International Airport (DXB), which is why this guide starts here. The main airlines are Emirates and FlyDubai, but there are also many charter flights from Europe and other regions.

How to get around Dubai

Dubai is much bigger than it looks on the map, so getting around can take time.

These are the options you can choose from in Dubai:

• The best and easiest way to explore Dubai is by car. Car rental is affordable, fuel is cheap, and parking is usually easy at malls and hotels. Just keep in mind that Dubai has road tolls (Salik) and many speed cameras, so always drive carefully.
• If you don’t want to drive, taxis and ride-hailing apps are fast, comfortable, and often the most time-saving option.
• The Dubai Metro is clean and cheap, and it’s great for reaching Downtown and Dubai Marina. If you prefer public transport, buy a Nol card, which you can use for the metro, buses, and sometimes even boats.
• For easy sightseeing without parking or navigation, you can also choose Big Bus Tours or book organized tours on platforms like GetYourGuide.

Best time to visit Dubai

The best time to visit Dubai is between October and April, when the weather is pleasant, usually 18–30°C during the day.

From April to October it gets extremely hot, and many attractions close for the summer, so I don’t recommend visiting then, even if it’s cheaper.

My favorite months are January and February, when the Christmas crowds are gone.

However, for swimming, October, November, March, and April are better because the sea is warmer.

And if you want something truly special, New Year’s Eve in Dubai is amazing, even though it’s the most expensive time of the year.

How many days to spend in Dubai

If you only want to see the most famous places in Dubai, you’ll need at least 2–3 days.

If you’d like to see all the main sights, relax on the beaches, enjoy restaurants with great views, do some shopping, and take a few day trips (for example to Abu Dhabi), I recommend staying at least 5 days, or even 7 to 10 days if you can.

Time goes by quickly in Dubai, so if you want to really enjoy the city, it’s worth staying a little longer.

Is Dubai expensive to visit?

Yes, Dubai, and the whole UAE is quite an expensive destination. The flights are usually very expensive, and hotels and meals are not cheap either. The city is also known for its luxury places and luxury services, which many visitors like to try when they arrive, and of course these are also pricey.

In general, even without the flight tickets, you can easily expect to spend 150–400 euros per day for two people. This includes accommodation, food, transportation, and some activities. If you calculate this for a 7-day trip to Dubai, the total cost becomes quite high.

However, I can honestly say that Dubai is worth the price.

So these were the 43 best places you can visit in Dubai.

I tried to show you many of the city’s top spots that are worth seeing during a trip to Dubai. From the most famous places like the Burj Khalifa to lesser-known spots like the Half Desert, you could discover a lot of interesting locations.

This detailed list covers almost everything, no matter what your taste or budget is when looking for things to do in Dubai.

I hope you enjoyed the article and found enough places to add to your next Dubai trip.

And if you want to keep planning your visit, feel free to read my other Dubai or UAE guides, book your flights, hotels, and activities, and get ready for an amazing time in Dubai!