Dubai

“Dubai is a stunning canvas painted with ambition; from the towering Burj Khalifa piercing the clouds to the bustling souks that echo with stories of the past. It’s a city that invites you to indulge in luxury while remaining deeply rooted in its rich heritage, making every experience uniquely exhilarating.”

🇦🇪

Currency

UAE Dirham (AED) د.إ‎

Best Time

November to March

Population

3.5 million

Weather °C

28.5

Dubai is a beacon of luxury and modernity in the desert. The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, is just one of the many architectural marvels that make Dubai famous. The city is also known for its luxury shopping malls, where you can find everything from high-end boutiques to unique local finds. But Dubai isn’t just about opulence; the city also offers a rich cultural scene with traditional music and dance performances.
State

Dubai

Year

1833

Airport

Dubai International Airport (DXB)

Cost of Living (10)

8

Minimal List TL;DR

🍜
Lounge
Buddha Bar
Lively pan-Asian restaurant and bar
🍲
Middle Eastern Cuisine
Mezza House
Arabic restaurant with an outdoor terrace for sheesha
🥘
International Cuisine
Teatro
Fine dining restaurant with an open kitchen
🦞
French Cuisine
Traiteur
French restaurant serving seafood brunch with a view
🏖️
Beachfront Dining
The Beach House
Restaurant offering great views and serving sheesha by the beach
🧆
Casual Dining
Zaroob
Traditional Lebanese and Jordanian restaurant serving great food
🌆
Luxury Resort & Dining
One&Only
Outdoor dining lounge and bar with great views over the city
🌃
Fine Dining
At.Mosphere
Bar and lounge on floor 122 Burj Khalifa
🎙️
Rooftop Lounge
Iris
Rooftop outdoor bar serving Bloody Mary and live music on Tuesdays
🎷
Beachfront Bar
Barasti
Casual beach bar with great atmosphere serving drinks, sheesha and music

Places to See

🌵
Desert Safari
Adventure
Downtown Dubai - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.8
80
7:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Visit the dunes of Dubai on quad bikes, camels or by sandboarding
http://www.myuaetours.com/
شارع المركز المالي، - Downtown Dubai - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.7
30
10:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Fish and sea mammals at the Dubai Mall
http://www.thedubaiaquarium.com/
Jumeirah - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.7
0
Open 24 hours
White sand beach offering water activities and a spot to tan
https://www.jumeirah.com/en
Ski Dubai
Indoor Activity
Sheikh Zayed Rd - Al BarshaAl Barsha 1 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.6
70
10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Snow-covered slopes, penguin encounters
Vibe:
Unique, Family-Friendly
Tip:
Skiing gear rental, snow park access
Get To:
Mall of the Emirates Metro Station
Indoor resort offering skiing and snowboarding in Emirates mall
https://www.skidxb.com/?utm_source=gmb&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=gmb
Al Barsha South 3 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.5
20
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Unique floral sculptures
Vibe:
Colorful, Tranquil
Tip:
Flower arrangements, photo spots
Get To:
Buses and taxis available from major areas
Large flower garden open between November and May
Must Visit:

Burj Khalifa, Desert Safaris

Home to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, Dubai boasts some of the world’s most impressive luxury shopping malls and resorts.

Places to Eat

🏖️
The Beach House
Beachfront Dining
Anantara Resort & Spa, The Palm - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.4
30
10:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Beach access with stunning views
Vibe:
Seafood Paella, Passionfruit Mojito
Get To:
Nearby Metro: Jumeirah
Tip:
Restaurant offering great views and serving sheesha by the beach
🧆
Zaroob
Casual Dining
Shop 1 - Sheikh Zayed Rd - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.3
25
10:00 AM - 12:00 AM
Lively street food vibe
Vibe:
Casual, Lively
Get To:
Near the Dubai Metro (World Trade Centre)
Tip:
Manakish, falafel
Traditional Lebanese and Jordanian restaurant serving great food
Must Try:

Shawarma, Persian Cuisine, Hummus, Falafel, Kebabs

Places to Drink

🌆
One&Only
Luxury Resort & Dining
King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St - Dubai Marina - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.9
80
12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Outdoor dining lounge and bar with great views over the city
https://www.oneandonlyresorts.com/royal-mirage/accommodation?utm_source=GMBlisting&utm_medium=organic&utm_campaign=OORM-arabian-court
🌃
At.Mosphere
Fine Dining
122nd Floor, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.7
70
12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Highest restaurant in the world
Vibe:
Opulent, Chic
Get To:
Accessible via taxi; nearest metro: Burj Khalifa
Tip:
Signature steaks, Dessert tasting
Bar and lounge on floor 122 Burj Khalifa
http://atmosphereburjkhalifa.com/
🎙️
Iris
Rooftop Lounge
Meydan Grandstand - adjacent to the Ticket Sales Office Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.5
75
7:00 PM - 1:00 AM
Stunning city views, live DJ music
Vibe:
Trendy, Lively
Get To:
Accessible via taxi; nearest metro: Burj Khalifa
Tip:
Signature cocktails, Tapas
Rooftop outdoor bar serving Bloody Mary and live music on Tuesdays
http://www.irisdubai.com/
🎷
Barasti
Beachfront Bar
Le Meridien Mina Syahi Beach Resort & Marina - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.5
20
10:00 AM - 2:00 AM
Vibrant nightlife scene
Vibe:
BBQ Platter, Signature Cocktails
Get To:
Nearby Metro: Al Sufouh
Tip:
Casual beach bar with great atmosphere serving drinks, sheesha and music
Music / Dance:

Arabic Pop, Traditional Dance, Hip Hop, House Music

Places to Network

We'll be updating more places soon!
Key Industries:

Real Estate, Tourism, Finance

Dubai

“Dubai is the commercial hub of Middle East which attracted the world’s attention through innovative construction projects and sport events. The city is symbolized by its skyscrapers and in addition to ambitious development projects, it also boasts some of the world’s largest and extraordinary shopping malls.”

Places to Shop

For More Places and regular updates, Subscribe today

Luxury

🍾
Cavalli Club
Nightclub
Sheikh Zayed Rd - Trade CentreTrade Centre 1 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.5
85
10:00 PM - 3:00 AM
Lavish design, Famous for celebrity sightings
Vibe:
Glamorous, Lively
Get To:
Accessible via taxi; nearest metro: Business Bay
Tip:
Signature cocktails, Dance floor
Night club over 3 levels with crystal décor
🦐
Al Mahara
Seafood Dining
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah - Jumeirah St - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.8
90
12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Underwater seafood restaurant at the Burj Al Arab
🥘
Pai Thai
Thai Dining
Jumeirah Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah، King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street، Umm Suqeim 3 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.6
55
12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Thai restaurant with an ornate waterway
🪂
Skydive
Adventure
Al Seyahi St - Dubai Marina - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.9
200
8:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Thrilling skydiving experiences in Dubai here
🦞
Pierchic
Seafood Dining
Al Qasr at Madinat Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.7
70
12:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Seafood restaurant on a private pier overlooking the water and Burj Al Arab
🍜
Zuma
Japanese Dining
Gate Village 06, Podium Level - Al Mustaqbal St - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
4.7
60
12:00 PM - 12:00 AM
Contemporary Japanese restaurants

Dubai Treasures

Luxury shopping, desert safaris, and modern architecture.

Dubai has the world’s largest shopping mall, the Dubai Mall, which features an aquarium and indoor ice rink.

Dubai is a city that combines ultramodern architecture with rich cultural influences, creating a unique urban landscape. The world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, dominates the skyline, while the city's shopping malls and resorts reflect its status as a global luxury destination. Dubai’s food scene spans international cuisines, with influences from Asia, the Middle East, and beyond. The city also offers a vibrant nightlife, including traditional music and modern dance performances.

Watch Out

Watch out for Crowded Areas
Skip Super Touristic Places

Off the beaten path places in

Dubai

Transportation

Metro, taxis, high-end transport

City Overview

Dubai is a city of futuristic skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and innovative design set against the backdrop of the Arabian desert. Known for its towering Burj Khalifa, the city is also home to beautiful beaches and rich cultural heritage.

Dubai

3 Day City Guide

- Day 1: Morning: Visit Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall. Afternoon: Explore the Dubai Fountain and Souk Al Bahar. Evening: Dinner at a rooftop restaurant overlooking Downtown Dubai. - Day 2: Morning: Explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Afternoon: Dubai Creek and Abra ride. Evening: Dinner at Dubai Marina. - Day 3: Morning: Desert safari and camel ride. Afternoon: Relax on JBR Beach. Evening: Visit the Global Village for international pavilions and entertainment.

Current Trends

- Food halls: Dubai’s dining scene is seeing a rise in trendy food halls like Time Out Market Dubai. - Beach clubs: Popular spots like Drift Beach offer luxury experiences. - Cultural fusion: The city’s art and design scene is blending Eastern and Western influences in innovative ways.

Local Events Guide

- Dubai Shopping Festival (December-January): A month-long celebration of shopping, entertainment, and events. - Dubai International Film Festival (December): Showcasing top international films. - Dubai Jazz Festival (February): A world-class music festival featuring top jazz artists.

Local Insider Tips

- Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood for a glimpse of Dubai’s past. - La Mer for trendy beachside cafes and shops. - Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, a surprising natural haven near the city.

Sustainable Travel

- Solar power: Dubai is focusing on clean energy, with many buildings using solar panels. - Sustainable accommodations: The city has eco-friendly hotels like Al Maha, a luxury desert resort with sustainable practices. - Public transportation: Dubai’s metro and trams are modern and energy-efficient.

Dubai

Explore the Best Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences:

Ready to see through a local’s eyes?
Our curated guide unveils top hidden gems, secret spots, and local favorites that you won’t find in typical travel guides.
Whether it’s a cozy café tucked away in a historic neighborhood, a scenic trail only known to insiders, or unique cultural sites, has so much more to offer beyond the tourist hotspots.
Dive into our off-the-beaten-path guide and discover the true heart —perfect for adventurous travelers, culture enthusiasts, and anyone looking for an authentic journey

Sign below for Fresh Updates

We will send you the latest curation of places and cities straight to your inbox along with access to the pop-up store & exclusive events.

Thank you! Your submission has been received!
Oops! Something went wrong while submitting the form.

Join us to stay connected. Read our updates

Unlock the Hidden Side:

Each spot in our City guide is handpicked to help you experience the city like a local, avoiding the crowds and discovering the best-kept secrets.
From charming local eateries and breathtaking viewpoints to tucked-away art galleries and vibrant local markets, this guide lets you explore beyond the surface.
Follow our recommendations for an unforgettable adventure and see why these places stand out as favorites among locals.
For more unique experiences like these, explore our full collection of off-the-beaten-path city guides and make every trip a journey of discovery.

More Cities to Visit:

🇮🇳
Mumbai
Local Mumbai
27.2
5
Indian Rupee (INR) ₹
Local Mumbai
Vibe:
Mumbai is home to the world’s most expensive house, Antilia, which is owned by billionaire Mukesh Ambani.
Tip:
Mumbai is a city where the old and new coexist in perfect harmony, from its historic bazaars to its cutting-edge malls. The hustle and bustle are matched only by its vibrant nightlife, making it a global hub for both business and pleasure. The city’s street food is legendary, with dishes like Vada Pav and Pani Puri being some of the most iconic snacks. While Bollywood dominates the entertainment scene, the city is also home to rich cultural traditions, making it a true melting pot of art, food, and fashion. With iconic sites like Marine Drive and the Gateway of India, Mumbai offers a stunning view of the Arabian Sea. Mumbai is a city that never sleeps—its markets, restaurants, and nightlife hum with life at all hours of the day and night.
🇯🇴
Amman
Local Amman
18.3
Jordanian Dinar (JOD) د.ا‎
Local Amman
Vibe:
Amman is home to the Roman Theatre, built in the 2nd century AD, which still hosts cultural events today.
Tip:
Amman is a city with a rich history that spans thousands of years. From the Roman Theatre to the Citadel, every street and building tells a story of the past. The city also blends modern amenities with traditional markets, making it an ideal place to experience both ancient and contemporary Jordanian life. Visitors can explore Amman’s many historic landmarks, enjoy delicious Arabic cuisine, or take a short trip to the nearby Dead Sea or Petra. Amman offers visitors a warm welcome and is a perfect base for exploring the wider country. The city's culture, food, and music make it an unforgettable destination.
🏖️
Vilamoura
Coastal Glamour
16-28°C
High
Euro (EUR) €
Coastal Glamour
Vibe:
Built by the Romans, famous marina
Tip:
With its Mediterranean charm and luxurious appeal, Vilamoura offers the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure. Boasting one of Europe’s largest marinas, it is a prime location for yacht tours and upscale dining. The town’s rich history is evident in its Roman origins, which are complemented by modern amenities and stunning beaches. Whether you’re enjoying a round of golf, lounging by the sea, or dining at a Michelin-star restaurant, Vilamoura offers a high-end escape like no other.
🇩🇪
Hamburg
Hidden Hamburg
9.4
7
Euro (EUR) €
Hidden Hamburg
Vibe:
Hamburg has more bridges than any other city in the world, even more than Amsterdam and Venice combined.
Tip:
Hamburg is a major port city with a fascinating blend of history and modernity. Visitors can explore the city's impressive harbor, famous Speicherstadt district, and rich maritime heritage. From the lively nightlife in the St. Pauli district to the world-class museums and art galleries, Hamburg offers a variety of experiences for visitors of all tastes. Whether you’re a history buff or a foodie, Hamburg has something to offer.
🏖️
Sardinia
Tranquil
18°C
Medium
Euro (EUR) €
Tranquil
Vibe:
Nuragic civilization predates Roman Empire.
Tip:
Sardinia is a peaceful haven with breathtaking landscapes and a rich cultural history. Its ancient ruins and pristine beaches make it a unique destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike. Sardinia’s natural beauty and culture offer something for every traveler.
🇮🇹
Rome
Hidden Rome
15.7
7
Euro (EUR) €
Hidden Rome
Vibe:
Rome has more fountains than any other city in the world, with over 1,500, including the iconic Trevi Fountain.
Tip:
Rome is a breathtaking city where history and culture come to life in every corner. The city boasts an unrivaled wealth of ancient monuments, world-class art, and iconic landmarks. From the mesmerizing Colosseum to the beautiful St. Peter’s Basilica, Rome's charm lies in its blend of past and present. Its streets are filled with lively cafes, beautiful boutiques, and open-air markets, making it an unforgettable destination that offers a perfect mix of ancient wonders and modern charm.