Famous Places in Dubai for Tourists

A trip to Dubai will not be complete without a visit to these top spots. From the most iconic buildings to the most popular beach hangouts, Top Spots Dubai shares the most famous places to visit.

1. Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai

A must-see for any tourist visiting Dubai. The Burj Khalifa is a United Arab Emirates icon that made Dubai’s skyline world famous. The Burj Khalifa has set multiple world records including ‘tallest building in the world’ and ‘tallest free-standing structure in the world’. Inside, there are some equally awesome experiences.

Grab your entrance ticket and make your way to the 124th-floor observation deck, At The Top, take in the views. Upgrade our experience by booking the Burj Khalifa Lounge. Spanning levels Levels 152, 153 and 154 the world’s highest lounge is the place to head to if you want to soak in the Burj Khalifa’s spectacular views in comfort and privacy. Or make your way to the Burj Club a high-end fitness and wellness centre set over five levels with impressive views and facilities including a pool and BBQ.

For the ultimate dining experience select from At.mosphere’s carefully curated menu or head to the Armani hotel for fine dining, cocktails and world-class spa experiences. Sunset and sunrise viewings at the top of the Burj Khalifa provide Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.

2. Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is one of the world’s largest shopping centers, housing a wide range of retail options, luxury brands, department stores, and high street favorites. Visitors can also enjoy various entertainment options such as a cinema, game zones, and an ice rink. For dining, there are fast food options in two food courts, fine dining in Fashion Avenue, and several restaurants with excellent views of the Dubai Fountain.

Aside from shopping and dining, visitors can explore the Dubai Mall Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, which is one of the world’s largest aquariums. With more than 140 species of marine life, visitors can learn and witness the underwater world through a glass walkway with 270-degree views of fish, rays, and sharks. Additional activities include glass-bottom boat rides and shark dives in the tank.

3. Burj Al Arab

For decades the all-suite Burj Al Arab has remained one of the world’s most exclusive and talked-about hotels. Located on a manmade island, it’s known for its industry-setting 7-star standards, luxurious arabesque interior design, iconic structure, exceptional fine dining options and futuristic sky bar. To visit this iconic hotel make a reservation at one of the eateries or take the Inside Burj Al Arab tour which offers tourists the chance to experience a 90-min journey through the sail-shaped hotel, led by one of the hotel’s butlers who offers up the hotel’s ‘untold stories’. Don’t forget to sip on a gold cappuccino and check out the hotel’s famous helipad and fleet of Rolls Royce cars during your visit!

The Burj Al Arab is also home to Sal beach club. Sal’s contemporary setting includes delicious Mediterranean dining, Instagram-worthy views of the Burj, chic private cabanas and a striking, 100-metre infinity pool.

4. Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah, dubbed as the eighth wonder of the world, is a man-made island shaped like a palm, with a trunk, 16 fronds, and a crescent. This impressive feat of human engineering hosts a thriving community with villas and residences, malls, chic hotels, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Visitors can also jog or cycle along the 11km crescent for exceptional views.

The iconic pink Atlantis hotel pays homage to the underwater kingdom and features a mesmerizing floor-to-ceiling aquarium at its heart. Beyond the hotel, visitors can explore the newly completed Nakheel Mall or take a stroll along Palm West Beach for uninterrupted Marina and JBR views.

5. Madinat Jumeirah

Experience the magic of Venice and the charm of Arabian nights in the heart of Dubai at Madinat Jumeirah. This stunning cluster of sandy stone buildings is connected by tranquil waterways, creating a picture-perfect setting for exploring, dining, shopping, and relaxing.

Explore the Madinat on foot or take an abra and immerse yourself in the winding corridors reminiscent of an ancient Arabian souk. Admire the view of the iconic Burj Al Arab from one of the many waterside eateries or coffee shops. The Madinat also features charming retailers where you can pick up Middle Eastern gifts or simply enjoy some window shopping.

As you wander through the twisting turquoise waterways, be sure to stop on the stairway for those iconic Burj Al Arab shots before discovering the adjacent Mina Al Salam hotel. Surrounded by palm-lined pools of water populated with rehabilitated sea turtles, the hotel is a true oasis in the middle of the bustling city.

6. The Beach Dubai, JBR

JBR Beach has long been a Dubai icon. There are lots of activities for the entire family to do here beyond tanning and swimming and strolling along the beach path next to the sea. Head to ‘The Beach’ entertainment and retail destination next to the shore. Here you can enjoy a range of activities from shopping to watersports. There’s an inflatable assault course on the sea and beachside spots where you can grab a bite or smoke shisha. Pavilion at The Beach promises year-round dining with indoor and outdoor seating options, sea and Ain Dubai views and a host of eateries to suit every taste. Our favourites are Japanese-Pizza concept Akiba Dori and vibrant Mexican eatery, La Mezcalaria. There are also standalone dining concepts near The Beach like international casual dining favourite, Cheesecake Factory. There’s also a beach cinema and shisha area. For atmospheric dining and a beach day head to Bla Bla beach club where you can perch by the bar and sip a cocktail or relax on a sun lounger which the DJ keeps energy levels high.

7. Blue Waters Island

Bluewaters Island is an exciting destination just a short walk from JBR. It offers retail, dining, and entertainment areas, including the Ain Dubai observation wheel and Madame Tussauds. It also features luxurious hotels like Ceasars Palace, home to the trendy Cove Beach Club. It’s the perfect place to relax, unwind and create unforgettable memories.

8. Mall of Emirates / Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai, the Middle East’s premier indoor ski resort, is a top-rated tourist destination that boasts an array of exciting activities and attractions. Nestled in the Mall of Emirates, Ski Dubai offers visitors the chance to experience a winter wonderland, complete with a snow park, slopes, ski school, snowboarding, chair lift, snow bullet, and a delightful penguin encounter. It is an exceptional destination for snow sports enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

9. La Mer

Beachfront retail and lifestyle destination La Mer has something for everyone in the family. From sandy public beaches to the Laguna waterpark, the Train Beach Club fitness destination, watersports as well as several dining options and hotels. There are also striking city and Burj Khalifa views to be enjoyed from this spot. Currently, under partial redevelopment, La Mer has some exciting plans for the year ahead. International favourites including beach clubs like Sirene Beach by Gaia and Bâoli are set to open. Stay tuned for further details. Nearby hotels include Rove and Hyatt Centric.

10. Museum of the Future

The Dubai Museum of the Future is an innovative exhibition center that offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore potential future scenarios in various fields, including space, environment, technology, and health, among others. Through interactive exhibits, guests can engage with and learn about these prospective futures. The museum’s special kids’ area caters to younger visitors, allowing them to develop new skills and knowledge. Additionally, the museum hosts lectures by subject matter experts and provides breathtaking views from its observation deck. Its mission is to serve as a center of knowledge and education on the most advanced sciences and technologies.