United Arab Emirates

Dubai

The best destination in the world in Tripadvisor's Travellers' Choice awards  – and for the third year in a row – Dubai is a brilliant holiday or stopover destination, with a huge array of attractions for all ages along with world-class hospitality.The perfect combination of traditional and modern, its incredible experiences range from adventures in serene desert landscapes and on pristine beaches to exploring the iconic cityscape and delving in this UAE’s rich culture. Whether you’re seeking relaxation, exploration, or indulgence, or a mixture of these, there’s something for everyone.

A very safe and inclusive destination for families, Dubai combines sunshine, natural beaches, desert, mountains, and theme parks. Summer is a great time for families, with great offers such as Kids Go Free, and Ramadan is good for enjoying special festivities, but Dubai is a year-round destination with a packed calendar of events and activities.

Foodies love Dubai for its fabulous dining, often accompanied by breathtaking views, and you can stay in some of the world’s most unique hotels and resorts. Dubai is also the perfect stopover destination, just a short distance from its international airport, with great activities and offers such as the Emirates Pass.

 

 

Dubai in Summertime

This is a season tailor-made for families and couples, with fantastic offers to go with all those incredible experiences, activities, and restaurants. This makes it a great time for both first-time and repeat visitors to savour the essence of Dubai, which has the perfect attractions for cooling off in after basking in the sun, such as water parks and indoor attractions, plus air-conditioning in hotels, restaurants, malls, and so on.

 

Visit iconic attractions

From the towering Burj Khalifa to the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab, and even the world’s highest afternoon tea – enjoy this at Raffles Dubai. Compare the view of new versus Old Dubai at the Dubai Frame, or lean out over the edge of a skyscraper at Sky Views. Many attractions are free, including the Dubai Fountain show, Dubai Aquarium (in Dubai Mall), Wings of Mexico statue, and the Viewing Point.

 

 

Indulge in fun-filled resorts

Check out resorts with their own host of attractions. Atlantis the Palm, for example, has the world’s largest water park, Aquaventure with its 105 record-breaking water slides, and The Lost Chambers Aquarium.

 

 

Embrace history and look to the future

Explore what the coming years, decades, and centuries could look like at The Museum of the Future, or look into Dubai’s heritage at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.

 

 

Something for everyone

With kids, dive into water and theme parks such as Aquaventure, Wild Wadi, and IMG World, all brimming with thrilling rides.

As a couple, enjoy top-notch hospitality and relax at spas and by rooftop pools.

For an adrenaline rush, complete a skydive over the iconic Palm Jumeirah or try iFLY’s indoor skydiving.

 

Experience the thrilling events on offer

Take in world-class performances at Dubai Opera as well as music festivals, West End shows, and comedy shows throughout the year.

Enjoy world-class sporting events such as The Dubai World Cup (horse racing), Emirates Rugby 7’s, and the golf DP World tour championships.

 

Enjoy beachside bliss

Relax on pristine beached such as Jumeirah Beach or Kite Beach, and soak in the lively atmosphere of beach clubs including Koko Bay, White Beach, Nobu by the Beach, Nikki Beach, and Zero Gravity – all providing the perfect backdrop for a sun-soaked retreat by the Arabian Gulf.

Take to the waves with water-sports activities like jetskiing, paddle-boarding, kayaking, and kite surfing.

 

 

Thrills and luxury in the desert

Embark on adrenaline-pumping desert adventure such as sandboarding, quad-biking, and desert safaris. Enjoy luxurious glamping under the stars, soar above the desert in a hot-air balloon (perfect for seeing desert sunrises), and experience Bedouin desert heritage.

 

 

Emirati cuisine

Experience authentic regional cuisine and get a true taste of Dubai's culinary identity by sampling traditional dishes infused with rich spices at venues such the Centre for Cultural Understanding, Arabian Tea House, Al Fanar, and Ewaan with its fabulous views.

 

 

Best for brunch

Enjoy a leisurely brunch at Time Out Market with its array of homegrown eateries, or at Bla Bla at JBR, We Be Brunchin' at JA The Resort with is poolside picnics, and Saffron with its great entertainment. 

Dining with views

Savour delicious meals with gorgeous views at Dubai's many dining establishments offering panoramic vistas of the city skyline or the tranquil waters of the Arabian Gulf, whether for a romantic dinner or a casual meal with friends. Particularly recommended are Armani or Indian food and Atmosphere, the world’s highest restaurant.

Indulge in exquisite and innovative cuisine at Dubai's Michelin-starred venues, with world-renowned celebrity chefs crafting unforgettable dining experiences.

 

 

Try the local food

Among the best local markets are Dubai Marina Walk, Last Exit Street Food Market, and Jumeirah Corniche

Best for families

Best for luxurious escapes