Years have passed, and Dubai has seen exponential growth in its footfall — thanks to its excellent engineering and natural location. The emirate is known to redefine luxury and tourism. People can check out the tallest freestanding structure, ski in the snowy wonderland, enjoy seamless shopping at Dubai Mall, discover the UAE’s proud heritage and unwind by the finest beaches.
To immerse in the blend of innovation and history, here we have rounded the 15 best tourist places in Dubai 2021:
1. Burj Khalifa
Soaring at a height of 2,700 feet, Burj Khalifa is currently the tallest building in the world. You can catch its glimpse from almost everywhere in Dubai. But nothing can beat the experience of being At The Top. Brace yourself for the heart-pulsating view of the cityscape from the highest observation deck of the 148th floor. It is perfect during the sunset. With double vantage points, a fountain, deluxe hotels and multiple restaurants and cafes, this architectural marvel must be on your to-do list.
2. Dubai Frame
One of the newest Dubai tourist attractions, Dubai Frame metaphorically combines Old and New Dubai. Hike its observation deck at 150 metres and soak in the beautiful panorama from the 93 m long bridge. On its either side, you can watch the serene and ancient side of the city with the upscale and developed part. It is the largest picture frame where you can walk on the crack-free sturdy glass, witness the exhibition narrating the story of the past, and run through the futuristic neon-tunnel display.
3. Burj Al Arab
The iconic hotel in the world for Arabian luxury and hospitality, Bur Al Arab is everything extraordinary. From savouring the food cooked by Michelin-starred chefs to rejuvenating in a world-class spa, the hotel promises a stay of a lifetime. Although booking a suite here can cost you a bomb, you can reserve a table at one of its premium restaurants and marvel in its gold-plated interiors. Or splurge for an unforgettable honeymoon!
4. Dubai Fountain
This is the Las Vegas-inspired fountain that is a dazzling spectacle of light, music and water. It is the tallest performing fountain that shoots water at a staggering height of a 45-storey building. This visual extravaganza of 6,600 lights, 25 coloured projectors and 22,000 gallons of water will take your breath away. It is tucked on the Burj Lake — from where you can also enjoy the stunning choreography on a boat ride.
5. Dubai Mall
Home to the Dubai Shopping Festival and the epicentre of entertainment, Dubai Mall expands in more than 1 million sqm. The lovers of high-end fashion can browse 70 signature outlets and shopping fans can visit over 1200 retail stores. With the giant Aquarium, Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink, Gaming Zone, multiplex, Gold Souk, and double-floored waterfall, the mall offers the perfect family day out. Never go empty stomach as the mall includes hundreds of restaurants and cafes.
7. Dubai Miracle Garden
Be swept off your feet when you stumble upon the jaw-dropping floral renditions, made by 150 million flowers in Dubai Miracle Garden. One of the top-rated tourist places in Dubai, this is a floral wonderland spread across 72,000 sqm. Shaped in different patterns, arches and layouts, from the award-winning Emirates A380 to 3D Floral design, Umbrella Tunnel to Disney Avenue, the attractions looks like a peaceful respite from the chaos. Weekly live events and food stores will have you craving for more.
7. Jumeirah Beach Park
Jumeirah Beach is a white strip of sand with turquoise water, a range of sports, a host of restaurants, shopping zones and other requisite facilities for a relaxed stay. Bask in the sun on the loungers as the nearby beach park overlooks Burj Al Arab and Madinat Jumeirah. Families can plan a picnic in the park and utilise the opportunities, such as the children’s play area, grill region, outdoor tables, showers, nourishment booths, and volleyball zone. Grab the quick bite as you walk and jog around in this tranquil environment.
8. Dubai Marina
An artificial canal city, the hub of tallest residences, and the most sought-after neighbourhood, Dubai Marina is a stunning destination. It boasts looming skyscrapers, mega malls, and a plethora of dining and entertainment options. Take advantage of the 3 kilometres shoreline of the Persian Gulf and go yachting through the district in a traditional embellished cruise. This dhow cruise Marina offers a palatable dinner, live shows and breathtaking views.
9. Dubai Dolphinarium
Holding one-of-a-kind show in the world, Dubai Dolphinarium is a kid-approved destination. In a 45 performance, you will be startled by the bottlenose dolphins and seals, showcasing exceptional talents and skills. They would dance, sing, juggle through hoops, paint, perform stunts and more. As you admire their agility, learn about their characters and survival. Apart from this, there is a famous bird show where the exotic species pull unusual tricks.
10. Desert Safari
With the rolling landscape, adrenaline-raising activities, culture-inspired shows, and delicious buffet, the Dubai desert safari is an action-packed excursion. Sitting on the luxurious and air-conditioned SUV, you will go on a hair-raising chauffeured drive. Through the journey, witness camels and other native wildlife like oryx. There is another range of sports like sandboarding and quad biking. Look into the Bedouin lifestyle as you admire the Tanoura act and wear an Arabic dress at the campsite. Bookings are required.
11. Etihad Museum
Also called the Union House, Etihad Museum stores and displays the artefacts and exhibits from areas of social, political, cultural, scientific, and military history. Learn and discover about UAE’s history and heritage. There are photos, films and more that will keep you glued to the series of interactive pavilions. Find out about the country’s outstanding economic development since independence, see the personal items of the rulers, and explore the open gallery.
12. Ski Dubai
Amongst the man-made wonders, Ski Dubai is the imitation of a hill station that has slopes and a snow park. Stretched across 3,000 square meters, this place offers an extensive range of fun-inducing polar activities. Challenge your guts to ski on the toughest slope, take a chairlift ride, go for toboggan runs, and zip line. It gets endearing with the snow penguins around performing march.
13. IMG Worlds of Adventure
Divided into 4 zones, IMG is the city’s first mega themed entertainment destination. With its up-to-date ride and spine-chilling attractions, this indoor playground is dedicated to Marvel and Cartoon Characters. Then there is a Lost Valley that has dinosaurs roaring back to life as you rise and plummet on the rollercoasters. Take a break for shopping, dining and watching your favourite cinema.
14. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Go back in time as you meander through the curving walkways of the oldest residential area in the city, Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. It will take you around the 19th century when the merchants and traders used to live in these homes with brown doors, wind towers and courtyards. Most of these houses have revamped to galleries, museums, cafes and exhibition sites. Dubai Museum is the best-seller.
15. Dubai Opera House
Dubai Opera is the city’s first multi-format theatre with 2,000 housing capacity. Developed by Emaar Properties, the structure resembles a dhow, a traditional sailing vessel. There are a variety of performance and entertainment styles, reflecting culture and art. You can take a backstage tour and uncover the hidden world of theatre. It is a marvellous architecture that can work for three purposes, and switch between theatre, concert hall and event hall as per the requirements.
Conclusion
Dubai embraces both technology and heritage. With these amazing places in the itinerary, your vacation to Dubai will be filled with surprising moments. So, put on your holiday hat and sail to this exotic destination.
A New Life Wandering 