Are you planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates? Its two most important cities—Dubai and Abu Dhabi—have so much to offer that you might be overwhelmed with where you should go.
To make things easier, we rounded up some of the best spots around these cities that you should include on your bucket list:
The best spots in Dubai according to tourists
Dubai has no shortage of attractions. But according to tourists, these attractions should be on top of your list:
- Dubai Creek gives you a glimpse of life in Old Dubai on one side and how far it’s grown on the other. Sailing on an “abra” across the creek is a magical experience for any tourist.
- Desert Safari takes you on an adventure in the middle of the desert where you get to see sand dunes for miles and an oasis where you can relax and savor the moment.
- Dubai Marina Dhow Cruise is an experience like no other. Think about this: a sumptuous Arabian dinner while you’re cruising over the beautiful Dubai Marina.
- Dubai City Tour shows you all the important spots in Dubai, so you can cover as many attractions as you can if you’re short on time.
The non-negotiable attractions in Dubai
They say that you have never truly visited Dubai if you don’t make a stop at these non-negotiable attractions:
- Museum of the Future shows you exactly what life would be as modern technology continues to take over the world.
- Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world with views like no other and a definition of the limitless possibilities that engineering can achieve.
- The Dubai Mall is the city’s largest mall with more than 1,200 retail outlets, restaurants, and entertainment options.
- The Dubai Fountain Show wows you with a dazzling display of lights and water to the tune of different Arabic and international music.
The most picture-perfect spots in Dubai
Do you want to take the best photos while you’re in Dubai? Grab your camera and click away in these beautiful spots:
- Dubai Creek offers the perfect backdrop for a beautiful photo by the water where Dubai built its roots.
- Burj Al Arab is a non-negotiable for photos being a symbol of the city and the most iconic hotel in the Middle East.
- The Dubai Frame is the largest frame in the world, so it’s only fitting to take a photo in it.
- The Dubai Miracle Garden is an oasis in the desert with stunning floral installations that will surely make your photos as perfect as possible.
The most thrilling theme parks in Dubai
Treat yourself to a thrill-seeking time at one of these parks around the city:
- Global Village is a cultural theme park where you get to experience and sample different attractions, food, and products from different parts of the globe.
- Ski Dubai lets you escape the heat of Dubai and enjoy snow in the middle of the desert.
- IMG World of Adventures offers a unique indoor theme park experience with areas inspired by your favorite movies and shows.
- Dubai Parks and Resorts is a family-friendly theme park that lets you enjoy a day of fun and adventure with a never-ending list of activities and attractions.
- Aquaventure Water Park, Atlantis The Palm is the ultimate outdoor theme park in Dubai with hundreds of slides and rides.
- Dubai Dolphinarium lets you interact with the gentlest dolphins in a safe indoor environment.
The best beaches in Dubai
Lounge by the beach, take a dip in the water, or enjoy some water activities at two of the best beaches in the city:
- Jumeirah Beach is a public beach that gives you the best views of Burj Al Arab.
- La Mer Beach is a lifestyle destination that lets you enjoy the beach with the option to shop and dine after.
Renting a yacht in Dubai
Embarking on a yacht rental adventure in Dubai unveils the captivating blend of urban elegance and serene waters that define the Dubai Marina. This vibrant district boasts an iconic skyline adorned with skyscrapers and opulent homes, all complemented by lively waterfront promenades. Amid Dubai's aquatic splendour, chartering a yacht emerges as an unparalleled way to explore the city's shoreline with an air of luxury. The yacht rental Dubai experience extends a respite from the hustle and bustle, inviting you to embrace the tranquil Arabian Gulf waters.
Be it a romantic sunset voyage, an extravagant aquatic soirée, or a leisurely day of fishing and snorkelling, yacht rental services offer an array of indulgent options to suit your preferences.
The best places for shopping in Dubai
Dubai is known for being a shopaholic’s haven and these are the best places in the city to spend your money:
The Dubai Mall is perfect for luxury shopping with a huge selection of local and international brands selling everything from bags to apparel.
- Mall of the Emirates is another excellent option if you’re looking for designer brands.
- City Center Mall is a more laid-back mall with a diverse range of stores and dining options for a relaxing shopping day.
- Outlet Mall is a great place to find good-value products from Dubai and abroad.
- Meena Bazaar is one of Dubai’s gems where you can shop for authentic pieces like clothes, jewellery, and home décor.
- Deira Gold Souq is the place to be if you want to invest in good quality gold jewellery pieces that are cheaper than the bigger stores.
The top tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi
The capital city of Abu Dhabi will not disappoint when it comes to attractions and here are our top picks:
- Sheikh Zayed Mosque takes you on a religious experience with its simple magnificence and ambiance that you won’t find in any other mosques in the country.
- Ferrari World is for anyone who loves iconic red cars. It’s also home to the fastest roller coaster in the world.
- Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi is the biggest indoor theme park in the world where you get to live out your movie dreams for an entire day.
- SeaWorld Yas Island may be a new attraction in Abu Dhabi, but it’s one of the most beautiful places to be in the city.
- Yas Waterpark is for anyone who loves adventure on the water with its range of slides, rides, and attractions to choose from.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi offers a unique experience with its extensive collection of artworks from different artists in the UAE and around the world.
These are just some of the many reasons you should book a trip to the UAE for your next holiday. So are you now ready to start planning your itinerary to Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
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