Your guide to Dubai / Top Dubai's landmarks
Top Dubai's landmarks
There are numerous places to see in Dubai, and each one is worth the visit. From the desert safari to the awe-inspiring Dubai beach, each of the landmarks in Dubai is unique in its architecture or experience. In this guide, you'll learn about the nine best attractions in Dubai and why they are worth your time.
Burj Khalifa
1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd
At 2,717 ft. tall, the "Jewel of Dubai," Burj Khalifa, is currently the tallest building in the world! Tourists can visit this astronomical skyscraper and travel to the 124th floor to see the city from "At the Top," the building's observation deck. The second highest observation deck in the world, from here you can oversee not only the city but also the never-ending desert on one side and the gorgeous ArabianGulf on the other. A sunsetvisit to the Burj Khalifa is also worth it, as Dubai is famous for its city lights. In order to avoid long lines to get to "At the Top," consider purchasing an entrance ticket in advance.
The Dubai Fountain
Fashion Parking - Dubai Mall - Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd
If you time your trip to the Burj Khalifa just right, you can easily catch one of the magnificent shows put on by the Dubai Fountain. This dancing fountain constructed in 2009 is part of the man-made Burj Khalifa lake, and not unlike the skyscraper it sits next to, it is the largest performance fountain in the world. The fountain wows its audience with every show, the water dancing to the music as it splashes about for a show that beautifully blends the visual with the auditory. A barrage of lights sparkle with the water and the music, creating a dazzling display that you don't want to miss. This fountain is a must on the list of places to visit in Dubai, and you'd regret not making it to at least one show.
Emirates Towers
The Emirates Office Tower and Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel make up the Emirates Towers. Another one of the Dubai tourist spots, these buildings are further examples of the astonishing architecture in this booming metropolis. Besides being one of the elegant Dubai hotels, the Jumeirah Emirates Towers will also show you a fun shopping experience along with quite the city view.
Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum House
This museum is the rebuilt home of Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai from 1921-1958. This building is the perfect example of old Arabian Architecture, as it was constructed using the same carved teak doors, wooden lattice screens across all the windows, and using the same geometric and floral designs on the gypsum ventilation screens. This 30 room building was built next to the site of the original house and now includes numerous photos as part of the Dubai Museum of Historical Photographs and Documents. Those interested in the history of Dubai will feel right at home in this beautiful house.
Deira
Marked by the Dubai attractions of the Maktoum Bridge and spectacular Deira Clocktower, the northern bank of the Dubai Creek is home to Deira. This part of the city is most famous for its traditional marketplaces called Souks. You can find a number of wares here, such as the world's largest gold bazaar, the Deira Gold Souk. Find fresh, delicious fish at the fish market, and then stop by the spice souks to pick up any spice you could possibly desire! After you've finished browsing through the wares, keep traveling through Deira for a rich, cultural tour. Built in 1890, the traditional Heritage House was once home to a famous pearl merchant by the name of Sheik Ahmed bin Dalmouk. After checking out the old homes of Dubai, check out the Al-Ahmadiya School, a museum dedicated to Dubai's public education in its oldest schoolhouse.
Jumeirah Mosque
Those interested in learning more about the Muslim faith will definitely want to stop by the Jumeirah Mosque. Made to be a smaller version of Cairo's Al-Azhar Mosque, this building of worship is a beautiful sight to all with its unique Islamic architecture. Daily tours throughout the mosque (except for Fridays) take place every day at 10 a.m. and help guide those seeking a better understanding of the Muslim faith. If not necessarily interested in learning more about the religion but interested in seeing the building, try visiting it at night. The lights that shine on the building make it look positively stunning.
Dubai Frame
Al Kifaf, Zabeel Park Jogging Track
Museum junkies, this is another one for you, as well as everyone who enjoys seeing all the different types of architecture this city has to offer. Planted in between the old-town neighborhoods and the modern city, the Dubai Frame is home to a series of galleries based on this young city's history. At the top of this 492 foot picture frame is the Sky Deck, a perfect place to view both sides of the city and take some amazing photos to take home with you.
Dubai Miracle Garden
Another one of the world's largest attractions in Dubai, the Dubai Miracle Garden is a must-see. This massive collection of over 100 million different flowers is nothing short of spectacular. Here in this marvelous garden, you will find a flower version of the Burj Khalifa and many buildings or artifacts covered in flowers. Every step you take, you will be bombarded by the beautiful, bold colour displays the flowers put on. This garden is the perfect location for a peaceful afternoon stroll. There is even a three-domed butterfly garden within the Miracle Garden.
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
With all the things to do in Dubai, an escape from the city and stunning buildings may be required. The good news is if it's an escape from the city and an exploration of nature that you want, you don't have to go too far. The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a wonderful place for nature and bird lovers, located along the Dubai Creek. This beautiful sanctuary is well-known for the pink flamingos that stop by in the winter during their migrations. Don't miss a chance to feed some of these majestic birds during one of the two feeding hours every day!