Dubai
Superlatives in the sand — The world's tallest tower, man-made islands, gold souks and desert dunes — a global crossroads between East and West.
Things to see & do
Signature attractions and experiences in Dubai.
Signature events
Dubai Shopping Festival
City-wide sales, fireworks and raffles.
Dubai World Cup
The world's richest horse race at Meydan.
Getting there & around
The driverless Metro's Red Line strings the city together; DXB has its own stations. Taxis are plentiful and cheap; abras cross the Creek for a dirham.
City & Place Guide
Where desert tradition meets ultramodern luxury on the Gulf
Dubai is a dazzling metropolis in the United Arab Emirates that has transformed from a small fishing village into one of the world's most visited cities in just a few decades. Towering skyscrapers, artificial islands, and record-breaking attractions define its skyline, while gold souks and historic wind-tower districts preserve its Arabian heritage.
The city is remarkably safe, cosmopolitan, and efficient, drawing visitors with world-class shopping, fine dining, and year-round sunshine. Alcohol is available in licensed venues, dress codes are modest in public, and local customs deserve respect. English is widely spoken, making navigation easy for international travelers.
- •Burj Khalifa — world's tallest building with observation decks and stunning city views
- •Dubai Mall — massive retail and entertainment complex anchored by an indoor aquarium
- •Dubai Creek & Al Fahidi District — historic waterfront with abras, spice souks, and wind towers
- •Palm Jumeirah — iconic palm-shaped island with luxury resorts and the Atlantis hotel
- •Desert Safari — dune bashing, camel rides, and a traditional Bedouin camp at sunset
- •Burj Al Arab — iconic sail-shaped luxury hotel worth visiting for afternoon tea or a tour
Getting around: Dubai's metro is clean, affordable, and air-conditioned, covering major attractions along two lines with easy Nol card payment. Buses extend coverage but are slower; taxis are widely available and metered. Careem and Uber both operate reliably, offering a convenient and often cheaper alternative. Walking is feasible in cooler months but difficult in summer heat.
Best time: November through March offers the most pleasant weather, with temperatures between 20–28°C perfect for outdoor sightseeing.
Local food: Try shawarma wraps, creamy hummus, slow-cooked lamb ouzi, Emirati saffron-spiced harees, and fresh camel milk at local markets or traditional Arabic restaurants.
This guide is provided for general information only. Verify details locally before making travel decisions.
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