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30 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dubai

Written by Jess Lee Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Jess Lee is a travel writer who has specialized and lived in the Middle East for over 15 years.

Glitzy Dubai is the United Arab Emirates' holiday hot spot. This city of high-rises and shopping malls has transformed itself from a desert outpost to a destination du-jour, where tourists flock for sales bargains, sunshine, and family fun.

Dubai is famous for contemporary sightseeing attractions such as the Burj Khalifa (the world's tallest building) and shopping malls that come complete with mammoth aquariums and indoor ski slopes. But this city has many cultural highlights and things to do, as well as all the glamorous modern add-ons.

Take a wander around the Al Fahidi quarter, and you'll discover the Dubai of old, then cruise along Dubai Creek in a traditional dhow, and you'll soon realize there's more to this city than its flashy veneer.

Learn more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Dubai.

1. Shoot to the Top of Burj Khalifa

2. view the dubai fountain display, 3. sneak in some shopping at dubai mall, 4. visit an underwater world at dubai aquarium, 5. cool off at atlantis aquaventure waterpark, 6. head out into the desert, 7. take afternoon tea in the burj al-arab, 8. ski indoors at mall of the emirates' ski dubai, 9. explore dubai creek, 10. wander through colorful dubai miracle garden, 11. walk through history in al fahidi quarter (old dubai), 12. experience global village's culture & entertainment, 13. cruise around madinat jumeirah on an abra, 14. soak up the sun on jumeirah beach, 15. discover uae history at dubai museum, 16. snap sunset pics at dubai frame, 17. swim & sunbathe at la mer beach, 18. family time at motiongate & legoland in dubai parks, 19. tour jumeirah mosque, 20. take to the water at kite beach & umm suqeim beach, 21. stroll sheikh zayed road, 22. fuel up on thrills & spills in img worlds of adventure, 23. haggle in the souks of deira, 24. skydive over dubai's palm jumeirah, 25. enjoy world-class theater at dubai opera, 26. savor a nature break in dubai butterfly garden, 27. explore local culture in the heritage and diving village, 28. spot flamingos at ras al khor wildlife sanctuary, 29. view traditional architecture at sheikh saeed al-maktoum house, 30. browse cutting-edge art in alserkal avenue, best things to do with kids in dubai, where to stay in dubai for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to dubai, map of tourist attractions in dubai, best time to visit dubai, united arab emirates.

Highlight: The world's tallest building and Dubai's best panoramic city views

Dubai's landmark building and major tourist attraction is the Burj Khalifa , which at 829.8 meters is the tallest building in the world and the most famous of the city's points of interest.

For most visitors, a trip to the observation deck on the 124th floor here is a must-do while in the city. The views across the city skyline from this bird's-eye perspective are simply staggering.

The slick observation deck experience includes a multimedia presentation on both Dubai and the building of the Burj Khalifa (completed in 2010) before a high-speed elevator whizzes you up to the observation deck for those 360-degree views out across the skyscrapers to the desert on one side and the ocean on the other.

Nighttime visits are particularly popular with photographers due to Dubai's famous city-lights panoramas.

Buy your Burj Khalifa "At the Top" Entrance Ticket in advance to avoid long line-ups, especially if you are planning to visit on a weekend.

Highlight: A family-friendly evening entertainment spectacle

Wrapping around the Burj Khalifa are the gardens of Burj Park, with walkways dotted with modern art sculptures. Burj Park is where you come to see the Dubai Fountain display on Burj Lake.

Modeled on the famous Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas, this is the world's tallest performing fountain, with water displays shooting up to 150 meters high into the air.

The 30-minute-long displays take place regularly after dark, and although the display itself is free, there are entrance charges to access the add-on experiences.

The floating platform of the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk is one of the most popular experiences for close-up views, while there are also opportunities to take an abra (traditional wooden boat) onto Burj Lake to see the fountains from the water.

Highlights: Dubai Aquarium, plenty of family activities, dining options, and brand-name shopping

Dubai Mall is the city's premier mall and one of the city's best places to visit for a day of shopping and indoor activities to keep the kids busy. It provides entry to the Burj Khalifa as well as the Dubai Aquarium.

There is also an ice-skating rink, gaming zone, and cinema complex if you're looking for more entertainment options.

The shopping and eating are endless, and there are nearly always special events such as live music and fashion shows within the mall. The most famous of these are the annual Dubai Shopping Festival in January and February and the Dubai Summer Surprises Festival in July and August.

Location: Doha Road, just off Sheikh Zayed Road

Highlights: An awe-inspiring introduction to the underwater world

One of the city's top tourist attractions, the Dubai Aquarium houses 140 species of sea life in the huge suspended tank on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall.

Although there is free viewing from the mall, the highlight of a visit here is entering the Underwater Zoo, with its three-story high, 270-degree views along the length of the glass-panel tunnels.

As well as viewing the vast amount of marine life, the Dubai Aquarium offers plenty of aquatic experiences and things to do for visitors who want a close-up encounter with some of the aquarium's inhabitants, from hand-feeding eagle rays to diving with reef and tiger sharks.

Address: Dubai Mall, Sheikh Zayed Road

Highlight: Water-based theme park fun for a day devoted to family entertainment

Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark , based at Atlantis, The Palm on the Palm Jumeirah—Dubai's famous man-made island development—is a great place to cool off after a few days of hectic shopping and sightseeing.

The waterslide action here is excellent and world-class, with the Aquaconda, the world's longest water slide; a nine-story-tall slide, aptly named the Leap of Faith; and water coaster rides.

There's also underwater safaris using Sea TREK helmets; a dedicated water play area for smaller children with slides; and for when all your energy has been used up, a 700-meter sweep of white-sand beach.

Address: Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Highlight: See the UAE's dramatic interior of sweeping dunes on Dubai's best day trip option

You don't have to travel far from Dubai's coastal skyline of skyscrapers to reach some of the UAE's desertscapes of rippling dunes.

Both the dune fields and desert of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and the orange-hued dunes of Maleha (actually in the Emirate of Sharjah ) are within day-tripping distance of the city.

Desert adventure tours can combine a range of activities, from sandboarding, camel rides, and 4WD safaris to traditional Arabian falconry displays and desert dinners under the stars. There are also options for overnight camping under the stars.

The typical tour itinerary, giving visitors a taster of desert life, is easily slotted into even a short trip to Dubai, taking around six hours door to door, with a mid-afternoon departure from the city.

The Dubai Desert 4x4 Safari offers a half-day desert adventure and includes a camel ride, sandboarding lessons, a sunset barbecue, and a belly dancing show.

For a less rushed tour experience, choose one of the companies that operate inside the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, where trips can include wildlife drives to spot the reserve's free-roaming herds of gazelles and, if you're lucky, Arabian oryx.

Highlights: Treat yourself to one of Dubai's most famous dining experiences

The Burj Al-Arab is the world's tallest hotel, standing 321 meters high on its own artificial island on the Dubai coastline.

Designed to resemble a billowing dhow sail, the exterior of the building is lit up by a choreographed, colored lighting show at night.

Decadent in every way possible, the Burj Al-Arab is one of the most expensive hotels in the world, with the most luxurious suites costing more than $15,000 for one night.

For those without unlimited credit, the way to experience the over-the-top opulence is to book afternoon tea at Sahn Eddar (a minimum spend is required) in the soaring atrium lounge.

Non-guests can also book dinner at the Ristorante L'Olivo at Al-Mahara where floor-to-ceiling glass panels in the dining room walls allow you to view sea life while you eat, or you can enjoy French and Italian classics for lunch or dinner with city vistas at the Michelin starred Al Muntaha .

Address: Jumeirah Road, Dubai

Highlight: Cool off from the desert heat with some winter sports then shop till you drop in the mall

Mall of the Emirates is one of the city's most famous malls, with the spectacular (and surreal) Ski Dubai facility inside.

The indoor ski slope is complete with chairlifts and a penguin enclosure, all at a continuous temperature of -4 degrees Celsius.

There's also a cinema complex and a family entertainment center with a whole host of rides aimed at both the big and small.

The shopping opportunities are boundless, as are the eating options, offering every conceivable world cuisine.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

Highlight: Abra rides across the creek for city skyline views

Dubai Creek separates the city into two towns, with Deira to the north and Bur Dubai to the south.

The creek has been an influential element in the city's growth, first attracting settlers here to fish and pearl dive. Small villages grew up alongside the creek as far back as 4,000 years ago, while the modern era began in the 1830s when the Bani Yas tribe settled in the area.

The creek is where you come to capture city views from the water, either by taking a trip on one of the many dhows that have been restored as tourist cruise boats or by hopping on an abra (small wooden ferry) between the ferry points on the creek's Bur Dubai and Deira banks.

On the Bur Dubai side of the creek, rubbing up against the Bastakia neighborhood, the waterfront has been regenerated as the Al Seef district, with a waterfront promenade backed by traditional coral-block and limestone buildings, a floating market, and shops selling crafts. It's a great place for a stroll with excellent water views.

Farther southeast down the creek, on the Deira bank just north of Al-Maktoum Bridge, is the Dhow Wharfage. It's still used by small traders from across the Gulf who sail their dhows onward to Kuwait, Iran, Oman, India, and down to Africa's horn.

This tiny remnant of Dubai's traditional economy is a fascinating place to wander around and watch cargo being loaded and unloaded on and off the dhows.

At the southeastern end of Dubai Creek, just before the creek joins with Dubai Canal, is the newly developed Dubai Creek Harbor with a waterfront marina walkway, which offers excellent vistas of the city skyline.

Highlight: Colorful photography options amid Dubai's most creative gardens

This is the zaniest garden ever. Not content with constructing the world's largest buildings and malls, Dubai has created the world's largest flower garden. Dubai Miracle Garden spans 2,000 square meters and is home to a reputed 100 million flowers.

Everything that can be covered with flowers has been, from twee English-style cottages to windmills and trucks. There's even a flower version of the Burj Khalifa.

Stroll the walkways and enjoy the riot of color and the wacky flower displays.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Rd, Al Barsha

Highlight: Admire Dubai's vernacular Gulf architecture amid the lanes of the tiny old town quarter

The Al Fahidi Quarter (previously known, and sometimes still referred to as the Bastakia neighborhood) was built in the late 19th century to be the home of wealthy Persian merchants who dealt mainly in pearls and textiles and were lured to Dubai because of the tax-free trading and access to Dubai Creek.

Al Fahidi occupies the eastern portion of Bur Dubai along the creek, and the coral and limestone buildings here, many with walls topped with wind-towers, have been excellently preserved.

Wind-towers provided the homes here with an early form of air conditioning—the wind trapped in the towers was funneled down into the houses. Persian merchants likely transplanted this architectural element (common in Iranian coastal houses) from their home country to the Gulf.

Lined with distinct Arabian architecture, the narrow lanes are highly evocative of a bygone, and much slower, age in Dubai's history.

Inside the district, you'll find the Majlis Gallery , with its collection of traditional Arab ceramics and furniture (housed in a wind-tower), and the Al Serkal Cultural Foundation with a shop, café, and rotating art exhibitions (located in one of the historic buildings).

Highlight: Evening entertainment hub with a global cultural focus

From October through April, this entertainment park provides family-friendly entertainment themed around taking visitors on a journey around the world.

Global Village's 26 country pavilions, ranging from Iraq to Japan and Russia to South Korea, each offer an individual experience of that country's culture, entertainment, and heritage. It's a unique option in the city for evening entertainment for families with little ones in tow.

As well as the pavilions, there are plentiful dining and shopping options on-site. Younger members of the family will enjoy the fun-fair-style Carnaval with plenty of rides, such as bumper cars, carousels, Swiss swings, and a big wheel, along with faster rides and a roller coaster.

Address: Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Road, Dubai

Highlight: Scenic canal cruises on traditional abra boats for easygoing sightseeing

The development complex of Madinat Jumeirah is a dining and retail district with a couple of five-star hotels, all set along the palm-tree-fringed banks of an artificial canal network.

All of Madinat Jumeirah has been styled to mimic traditional Gulf architecture, with wind towers and mashrabiya detailing.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah here offers easygoing shopping, with a large variety of traditional craftwork and souvenirs from the Gulf and across the wider Middle East, but the main reason to head here is to hop on an abra (small wooden ferry) and cruise down the canal.

Abras leave regularly from Souk Madinat Jumeirah's promenade and loop around the waterway, providing plenty of photo opportunities of the lush gardens and traditional architecture of Madinat Jumeirah, with the tall swooping sail of the Burj Al Arab in the background.

Address: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Dubai

Highlight: Dubai beach life summed up with everything you need at your fingertips

This long, wide strip of sandy white bliss is the number one beach destination for Dubai visitors .

Some of Dubai's most popular beach resorts are strung out all along its length, making this one of the most popular places to stay for visitors who want to make hitting the beach a major part of their Dubai stay.

The large areas of the beach have excellent facilities, with plenty of sun loungers, restaurants, lifeguards patrolling the stretches designated for swimming, and water sports operators offering jet skiing, kayak rental, parasailing, and boat rides.

This is a safe beach choice for families traveling with tots, as the turquoise water of the Gulf lapping the shore is shallow and calm.

Address: Dubai Marina, Dubai

Highlight: Delve behind the high-rise facade to discover Dubai's heritage

Dubai's excellent museum is housed in the Al-Fahidi Fort, built in 1787 to defend Dubai Creek. The fort's walls are built out of traditional coral blocks and held together with lime. The upper floor is supported by wooden poles, and the ceiling is constructed from palm fronds, mud, and plaster.

In its history, the fort has served as a residence for the ruling family, a seat of government, garrison, and prison. Restored in 1971 (and again extensively in 1995), it is now the city's premier museum.

The entrance has a fascinating exhibition of old maps of the Emirates and Dubai, showing the mammoth expansion that hit the region after the oil boom. The courtyard is home to several traditional boats and a palm-leaf house with an Emirati wind-tower. The right-hand hall features weaponry, and the left-hand hall showcases Emirati musical instruments.

Below the ground floor are display halls with exhibits and dioramas covering various aspects of traditional Emirati life (including pearl fishing and Bedouin desert life), as well as artifacts from the 3,000- to 4,000-year-old graves at Al Qusais archaeological site.

Address: Al-Fahidi Street, Al-Fahidi

Highlights: Aerial vistas of the modern cityscape below and galleries focused on Dubai's history

Sitting slap-bang between Dubai's older neighborhoods clustered around the creek and the city's modern sprawl, this ginormous 150-meter-high picture frame is one of Dubai's latest sights.

Inside Dubai Frame , a series of galleries whisk you through the city's history and explore Emirati heritage before you travel up to the Sky Deck, where there are fantastic panoramas of both old and new Dubai to be snapped on the viewing platforms.

Afterwards check out Future Dubai gallery, which imagines what a futuristic vision of the city will look like.

Address: Zabeel Park, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road

Highlight: Take a day off sightseeing and head to the white sand for a relaxed break beside the sea

Backed by a fringe of palm trees, the stretch of La Mer Beach in Jumeirah is an easygoing spot for a full day of sun and sea.

Water sports operators here offer Jet Ski trips, boating, fly-boarding, and kayaking for beachgoers who itch to get off the sand, but for those who simply want to sloth out between swimming, there's plenty of sun lounger rental and a wide variety of cafés and restaurants just a hop from the sand for snacking and full meals.

La Mer is a sheltered bay with tranquil water, so it's a safe choice for both families and less-confident swimmers. Like all of Dubai's main beaches, it is regularly patrolled by lifeguards during the day.

If the sea and sand aren't enough, at the beach's northeast point, you'll find Laguna Waterpark, with several waterslides, a lazy river, and a surf pool.

Address: Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah

Highlight: Family-centered fun is the focus at these interconnected theme parks

At Dubai Parks and Resorts , your entertainment needs are all rolled together into one location. The only problem here is choosing what you want to do.

This mammoth project incorporates a swag of world-class theme parks providing something for everyone, whatever your age.

Motiongate takes its theme from Hollywood productions, with rides based around movie blockbusters; Bollywood Parks brings the world of India's famous movie industry alive on its rides; and Legoland Dubai and Legoland Waterpark provide younger visitors with a fun-packed day out on its interactive rides, water slides, and wave pool.

The district's attached Riverland Dubai dining hub means that there's no need to leave after you've exhausted yourself with theme park pursuits, as there's plenty of evening entertainment here as well.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Jebel Ali

Highlight: Gain greater insights into Islam on a tour of Dubai's most famous mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is considered by many to be the most beautiful of Dubai's mosques. An exact copy of Cairo's Al-Azhar Mosque, which is eight times its size, the Jumeirah Mosque is a fine example of Islamic architecture.

This stone structure is built in the medieval Fatimid tradition, with two minarets that display the subtle details in the stonework. It is particularly attractive in the evening when lit with floodlights.

The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Cultural Understanding (which also runs a program of tours, lectures, Arabic classes, and cultural meals) organizes guided tours of the mosque designed to try to foster a better understanding of the Muslim faith.

Tours begin at 10am daily, except Fridays.

Address: Jumeirah Road

Highlight: Learn to kitesurf on one of Dubai's best water sports beaches

Thanks to its surf and prevailing wind, the northern section of Umm Suqeim Beach is Dubai's top spot for kitesurfing.

The beach is home to an array of water sports operators offering equipment hire, as well as kitesurfing lessons, along with paddleboarding and kayak rental.

This long stretch of yellow-sand beach sweeps south along the coast (becoming Umm Suqeim Beach), with plenty of space for sunbathers looking to lap up a lazy day of swimming and soaking up the rays on the sand and excellent facilities and dining choices. There are good views of the Burj Al Arab from the southern end of the beach.

While in the Jumeirah area, it's well worth brushing off the sand for an hour to visit the Majlis Ghorfat Um Al-Sheef just a three-kilometer hop from the beach. Built in 1955, this was the summer residence of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed al-Maktoum.

The residence, made out of gypsum and coral block, has been restored and maintains much of the original beautiful decor, giving you a better understanding of the opulent lifestyle of Dubai's rulers.

The Majlis Gardens feature a reproduction of an impressive Arab irrigation system, and many shady date palms.

Address: Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah, Dubai

Highlight: Take in central Dubai's skyscraper views from ground-level

Sheikh Zayed Road is the main thoroughfare running through Dubai's modern downtown business district.

This wide, eight-lane highway is rimmed with towering glass, chrome, and steel high-rises along its entire length. It's one of the best on-the-ground vantage points for Dubai's famed skyscraper views.

Main attractions are along, or just off, the strip between the roundabout and the first intersection, and most of Dubai's famous malls are located along the road's route.

The Dubai World Trade Tower has an observation deck on its top floor, which offers visitors panoramic views (a cheaper option than the Burj Khalifa), and the Gold and Diamond Park (Sheikh Zayed Road) is a one-stop shop for jewelry lovers, with 118 manufacturers and 30 retailers all under one roof.

Highlights: Adrenaline-packed rides and hours of fun for kids of all ages

The IMG Worlds of Adventure theme park, near Global Village, is immersive entertainment at its finest and has thrills and spills for both kids and big kids.

With one zone devoted entirely to Marvel's iconic characters; another to dinosaur-themed rides; and a zone where the Cartoon Network takes the helm, with gentler rides and activities for younger children, there's something here for every age.

Whether you want to help the Avengers battle Ultron, scare yourself silly in a haunted house, or join Spider-Man as he swings through the city, this is heaven for families looking for a fun-filled day out.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Dubai

Highlight: Shop the traditional way amid the heritage souks of Deira

Deira lies on the northern bank of Dubai Creek and the winding streets here unveil the melting pot of different nationalities that have come to call Dubai home. On the shore, ancient dhows load and unload with modern banks, hotels, and office buildings as a backdrop.

For travelers, Deira is most famous for its traditional souks (markets), which bustle with shoppers at all times of the day.

Deira Gold Souk is world-renowned as the largest gold bazaar in the world.

The Deira Spice Souk sells every imaginable spice, with stalls overflowing with bags of frankincense, cumin, paprika, saffron, sumac, and thyme, as well as the fragrant oud wood, rose water, and incense.

The fish market provides a much less touristy experience.

While in the district, culture lovers shouldn't miss two of Deira's finely restored architectural gems. Heritage House was built in 1890 as the home of a wealthy Iranian merchant and later became the home of Sheik Ahmed bin Dalmouk (a famous pearl merchant in Dubai). Today, it's a great chance to see the interior of a traditional family home.

The Al-Ahmadiya School, constructed in 1912, is the oldest school in Dubai and is now a museum of public education.

Highlight: Get the best aerial views of the city with Dubai's best thrill-seeker activity

For the ultimate sightseeing adrenaline rush while you're in the city, tandem-skydive over Dubai from Skydive Dubai's Palm Drop Zone.

There are bird's-eye views of the city's skyscraper coastline, Dubai Marina, and the artificial islands of Palm Jumeirah, all the way down the 3,900-meter-high plunge.

The entire experience takes around 90 minutes and includes the flight; an instructor you'll be harnessed to during the skydive; and a skydiving camera operator, who'll take pictures during your dive.

If you prefer desert dune scenery, Skydive Dubai also operates a separate tandem-skydiving experience in the desert, about 35 kilometers out of the city.

Skydiving in Dubai is an activity you need to book as far in advance as possible due to limited numbers and the high popularity of the experience.

Highlight: Enjoy the best of Dubai's cultural life while on your trip

For nighttime attractions, look no further. Opened in mid-2016, Dubai's classy new opera building is the centerpiece of the waterfront district in downtown Dubai and is a major cultural hub and main entertainment venue.

The Dubai Opera hosts a year-round program of famous musical theater productions, concerts by world-class musicians, opera, ballet, and classical music, as well as smaller productions, comedy nights, and concerts.

The 2,000-seat theater building itself is an astonishing piece of architectural mastery and one of Dubai's new landmarks, with its highly-contemporary glass and steel walls jutting out over the waterfront, built to resemble the curves of a traditional dhow.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Road

Highlight: Take a nature break without leaving the city

Escape the city's skyscrapers for an afternoon at the Dubai Butterfly Garden . For a slice of nature, this vast butterfly garden, with around 15,000 butterflies flitting under the domed enclosures, can't be beaten.

It's a great chance for kids to get close-up views of butterflies as they often land on visitors' shoulders and hands.

There's a museum here, too, with plenty of information on butterfly varieties, their habitats, and life cycle.

Highlight: Explore Dubai's sea-going heritage and life along this coastline before the contemporary city

Dubai's architectural, cultural, and maritime heritage is showcased at the Heritage and Diving Village, with displays related to pearl diving and dhow building—two of old Dubai's historic economic mainstays.

There are also recreations of traditional Bedouin and coastal village life, with Persian homes, a traditional coffeehouse, and a small souk where potters and weavers practice their handicrafts at the stalls.

Local music and dance are performed from October to April, and visitors can get advice from practitioners of traditional medicine.

Location: Shindagha, Bur Dubai

Highlight: Spend an early morning spotting flamingos and other birds amid the city's wetlands

You don't have to go too far away from the skyscrapers to soak up a more natural vista. The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary incorporates the mangrove forests and wetlands of Dubai creek.

An important stop-off on the migration routes, it's a prime place to spot flamingos in winter when massive flocks of these majestic pink birds wade through the lagoons, backdropped by soaring high-rises.

Various hides in prime spots have been set up within the park to allow bird watchers good views of the birdlife.

Address: Ras Al Khor Street, Dubai

Highlight: Delve into Dubai's history amid the museums of this royal complex

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum was the Ruler of Dubai from 1921 to 1958 and grandfather to the current ruler. His former residence has been rebuilt and restored as a museum that is a fine example of Arabian architecture.

The original house was built in 1896 by Sheikh Saeed's father, so he could observe shipping activity from the balconies.

It was demolished, but the current house was rebuilt next to the original site, staying true to the original model by incorporating carved teak doors, wooden lattice screens across the windows, and gypsum ventilation screens with floral and geometric designs.

Thirty rooms are built around a central courtyard with wind-tower details on top.

Inside are the exhibits of the Dubai Museum of Historical Photographs and Documents with many wonderful old photographs of Dubai from the period between 1948 and 1953.

The marine wing of the museum has photos of fishing, pearling, and boat building. Throughout the building there are many letters, maps, coins, and stamps on display showing the development of the Emirate.

Nearby is the Crossroads of Civilizations Museum , which explores the United Arab Emirates' historic role as a trading center between Asia, Africa, and Europe long before oil became this region's most prominent industry.

Located inside the old residence of Sheikh Hashr bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, who was a member of Dubai's ruling family, the exhibits trace this coastal area's history as part of the global trade routes, with displays of artifacts and manuscripts.

Also on-site are the Rare Books and Manuscripts Museum and the small Armory Museum.

Address: Al Khaleej Road, Bur Dubai

Highlight: Explore Dubai's burgeoning contemporary art scene

Part of the old Al Quoz industrial district, Al Serkal Avenue has been regenerated to become Dubai's main arts hub and is home to some of the city's most important contemporary art galleries.

Established gallery names such as the Green Art Gallery , The Third Line and the Ayyam Gallery have made their home here, while a host of smaller gallery start-ups have also moved in.

The district's program of rotating collections focuses both on the work of major artists, as well as highlighting new Middle Eastern talent.

This emerging district is also the place to come for fashion and accessory boutiques by local designers, pop-up restaurants, and café life, and it showcases the energetic and youthful buzz of a city, which is usually more noted for its corporate face.

Address: Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz Industrial District

As well as Dubai's glut of theme parks, a stay in the city can incorporate plenty more active things to do.

There are plentiful desert tours that head out beyond the skyscrapers if you want the kids to sample more natural scenery. Many of the tours include sandboarding or camel riding.

To stick to the coast, the beaches and resorts offer kayak hire, as well as a bundle of other water sports to get the kids working off some energy in the sea.

And for those who enjoy the complete oddity of having some snow-fun amid the heat, the indoor ski run at Mall of the Emirates can't be beaten.

For easy access to Dubai's top tourist attractions, the best place to stay is Downtown Dubai.

Prime attractions nearby include the landmark Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building; Dubai Mall; and the Dubai Fountain. You'll also find plenty of shops, restaurants, and art galleries in this vibrant precinct.

If you're seeking some sun, sand, and sea, Jumeira and Dubai Marina lay about 15 minutes by car from Burj Khalifa and are also popular bases for tourists.

Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient and central locations for touring the city:

Luxury Hotels:

• The Palace Downtown Dubai is a five-star resort right in the heart of Downtown Dubai, combining traditional Arabic design features with contemporary facilities, all overlooking Burj Khalifa Lake. There's a pool, spa, and restaurants on-site.
• Armani Hotel offers rooms decked out in sophisticated luxury. It's set in the Burj Khalifa, for a stay in the top address in Downtown Dubai, with a pool and spa on-site.
• Burj Al Arab is Dubai's most iconic stay, set on its own manmade island, with palatial interiors, world-class restaurants, and suite-style rooms that overlook the waters of the Gulf.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Ramada by Wyndham Downtown Dubai is in a top-notch location in Downtown Dubai, neighboring the Dubai Opera. There's excellent in-house facilities, including a pool, restaurants, and gym, and the spacious, modern rooms all come with balconies.
• Manzil Downtown by Vida is a classy, contemporary boutique hotel option with a large outdoor pool area and white-on-white rooms that incorporate modern Arabesque design features into their interiors. It's in a handy, central location in Downtown Dubai.
• Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach sits on Dubai's The Walk promenade, in Jumeirah so it's a top choice for those who want a waterfront location. There's a large pool area, private beach and plenty of resort facilities. It's about a 12-minute drive to the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai from here.

Budget Hotels:

• XVA Art Hotel offers contemporary boutique-hotel style within a traditional Dubai building, right in the heart of the historic Al Fahidi (Old Dubai) district.
• Ibis Dubai Al Rigga is a great budget choice thanks to its central Deira position, close to Dubai Creek and the city's major historic tourist attractions, as well as its well-equipped, small rooms and in-house facilities, including two restaurants and a gym.
• Ibis Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel , next door to the namesake mall with Ski Dubai, is a popular option with both business and leisure travelers thanks to its modern, good-value rooms and solid facilities, including two on-site restaurants.
• See the Sights : Dubai Private Modern or Traditional Dubai Tour is one of the most convenient ways to see the city's sights. This half-day guided tour takes you to the main attractions, including Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai Museum, Deira Gold Souq, and more.
• Soar over the City: Dubai Helicopter Tour offers incredible views across the city and desert surroundings on a 15-minute or 25-minute helicopter ride. There is no better way to see the famous Palm Jumeirah or the manmade archipelago created in the shape of a world map, known as The World, than from the air.

By far, the best times to visit Dubai are the months of November, December, January, February, March, and April when the weather is, in general, at its most pleasant. This is peak tourism season, though, so prepare for hotel prices to be at their highest.

Keen shoppers after discounts galore should head here during January when the entire month is devoted to the Dubai Shopping Festival. Be aware that January is Dubai's coldest month, though, with an average high of 23 degrees Celsius and temperatures dropping as low as 14 degrees.

For the best weather, particularly if you're going to hit the beach or head out into the desert during your trip, plan to travel here during the months of November or April when the average daytime temperatures sit between 25 and 26 degrees Celsius, and only peak as high as 31 degrees.

These two months usher in plenty of blue skies and sunshine for outdoor activities, but without the scorching heat of summer. Whichever month you choose, pack a warmer layer. You will need it to counter the ferocious air conditioning of Dubai's many indoor venues.

Other Considerations When Timing Your Visit to Dubai

Before deciding on which month to visit, check out when Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting is happening. During this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sundown every day. The Islamic calendar is lunar, so the dates for Ramadan shift every year.

Ramadan in the UAE is strictly followed, and eating, drinking, chewing gum, and smoking in all public spaces is forbidden from daybreak to sunset for everyone, including non-Muslims.

Although some restaurants, mostly those based in international brand hotels and usually one designated café in a mall, will still serve food during the day (with blinds pulled down across the restaurant windows, so that those fasting don't need to see people eating) nearly all restaurants and cafés shut during daylight hours and only open up at sunset.

From sunset onwards, it's feasting time, with many hotels and restaurants putting on special Iftar (the Ramadan after sunset meal) menus, which need to be pre-booked due to high demand.

Businesses, including tourist sights and shops, are open, but keep shorter hours for the entire month.

A benefit of visiting during Ramadan is that the city is less busy than usual, as many Dubai locals decide to head on holiday during this month, and the city also receives fewer tourists.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Beyond Dubai: To dive into the UAE's other cities, check out our articles on things to do in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah . If you want to learn about the beach resorts beyond Dubai, have a look at our feature pieces on Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman .

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Dubai maintains tourism growth momentum with 5.18 million international overnight visitors in first quarter of 2024

Monday, May 6, 2024 12:00 AM

Dubai welcomed 5.18 million international overnight visitors from January to March 2024, an 11% rise over the 4.67 million tourist arrivals during the same period in 2023, according to data published by Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) at the 31st edition of Arabian Travel Market (ATM).

Following a milestone year in 2023, with Dubai receiving a record 17.15 million international overnight visitors, the city’s tourism industry is building on the momentum in the first quarter of the year, driven by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai. This growth also aligns with the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, to further consolidate Dubai’s position as a leading global city for business and leisure. Commending the achievement, His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of The Executive Council of Dubai, said: “The number of visitors in the first quarter of 2024 indicates that Dubai is on course for another standout performance this year after the emirate received a record number of visitors last year, with international visitors reaching 17.15 million.

This will ensure that the tourism sector continues its growth journey in line with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and in line with the objectives of the Dubai Economic Agenda (D33), which aims to strengthen its position as a leading global city for business and leisure.”

Visionary leadership

His Highness added: “Integrating diverse aspects, the blueprint behind Dubai’s success as a tourist destination is based on the vision of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid and it has gained the trust of visitors from around the world. Effective promotion efforts showcase the best of Dubai for tourists, but it has also invested for years in developing world-class infrastructure that serves citizens, residents, and visitors alike. The performance of various sectors has been enhanced in line with the highest international standards and best practices with the ultimate goal of becoming the smartest, most advanced and agile city, serving everyone who resides on its land or visits it as an honourable guest.”

Sheikh Hamdan praised the efforts of the DET in successfully promoting the emirate at a global level and showcasing the distinguished experience that it is keen to provide visitors, noting that its well-considered strategies are clearly reflected in the steady growth in tourist numbers. His Highness also expressed his appreciation for the efforts of all strategic partners in the private sector for their contributions in highlighting the attractiveness of Dubai and emphasised the importance of strengthening cooperation between the public and private sectors to ensure that the emirate continued to retain its lead on the global tourism map in coming years as well.

His Highness stated: “Ensuring the highest levels of tourist satisfaction translates into each visitor becoming an ambassador for Dubai, carrying to the world the image of a city that spares no effort for the happiness and comfort of its guests. We affirm our commitment to continue working to further enhance the capabilities of our tourism sector and diversify options we put at the disposal of our guests, ensuring that these always exceed their expectations. This is part of an ambitious economic strategy with a human element at its heart, the goal being to live up to every individual’s aspirations and requirements at multiple levels.”

Dubai’s exceptional performance reinforced global recognition for the destination, having begun 2024 by being named the No.1 global destination for an unprecedented third successive year in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, the first city to achieve this unique accolade. Major industry events The rise in international tourists during Q1 is the result of city-wide strategies established across vital pillars in the tourism sector, including sustainability, accessibility, entrepreneurship, and innovation, while various other key factors contributed to visitation growth. The city hosted several major industry events, such as Arab Health, Gulfood and the Dubai International Boat Show, while new hotel openings included The Lana, Dorchester Collection’s first property in the Middle East; SIRO One Za’abeel, Dubai’s first fitness hotel; Marriott Marquis Dubai; and Hilton Dubai Creek Hotel & Residences. Catering to all budgets and preferences, Dubai’s diverse offerings are constantly evolving, supported by world-class infrastructure, exceptional service at all touchpoints, and continuous collaboration between the government and private sectors.

His Excellency Helal Saeed Almarri, Director General of Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET), said: “Under the leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, the emirate’s continued record-breaking visitation performance demonstrates the sustained commitment to delivering on our long-term D33 Agenda goals, and further solidifies the pivotal role the tourism and hospitality sectors play in propelling Dubai’s positive growth trajectory.

“In addition to our high-performing tourism ecosystem, these figures also continue to be spurred by upswings in the number of international businesses setting up, existing companies expanding business lines and catchment footprint from Dubai, a very healthy MICE sector, and an influx of new talent relocating to the city, demonstrating the wide-reaching and synergistic impact of a successful and well calibrated D33 economic blueprint.”

His Excellency Issam Kazim, CEO of the Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “Inspired by the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, and guided by the objectives of the D33 Agenda, Dubai is committed to further elevating standards across the emirate and expanding its tourism offering with innovative and distinctive world-class infrastructure, experiences and attractions.

“We will continue to drive strong global and market-specific campaigns, collaborating with our key domestic and international stakeholders and partners and taking a diversified marketing approach to promote Dubai to audiences around the world, exciting and inspiring potential new and repeat visitors. The commitment of our partners to this shared vision, including through the delivery of the highest levels of service across all consumer touchpoints, is instrumental in making Dubai the best city to visit, live and work in. We look forward to maintaining the industry’s success throughout summer and the rest of the year.”

Key source markets

Dubai’s diversified approach, built on bespoke strategies and activities in more than 80 markets, helped maintain its position as a first-choice travel destination for visitors both from key traditional and emerging markets. From January to March, the Western Europe region was Dubai’s biggest source market with 1.138 million arrivals, a 22% overall share, followed by South Asia with 869,000 visitors (17%) and CIS and Eastern Europe with 817,000 (16%). From a regional perspective, the GCC and MENA were fourth and fifth, accounting for 664,000 (13%) and 605,000 (12%) arrivals respectively. The North-East Asia and South-East Asia region recorded 470,000 arrivals into Dubai (a 9% share), followed by the Americas 344,000 (7%), Africa 202,000 (4%) and Australasia 70,000 (1%).

Hotels and hospitality

From January to March this year, Dubai’s hotels maintained a room occupancy rate of 83%, a notable achievement given the 2% year-on-year increase in overall room supply to more than 152,000. Occupied room nights increased by 2%, with 11.2 million at the end of Q1 2024, compared to 10.98 million in 2023. Average Daily Rate (ADR) rose to AED638 during Q1, marking a notable increase of 5% compared to the same period in 2023, while Revenue Per Available Room (RevPAR) increased by 4% compared to last year, from AED504 to AED527. This performance clearly indicates city hoteliers are maintaining competitive prices and revenues amid high levels of occupancy. Total available rooms in Dubai reached 152,162 by the end of March, up from 148,877 rooms in March 2023, while the number of establishments stood at 832 at the end of the first quarter, compared to 814 during the same period last year.

Dubai had a substantial total of 96,484 hotel rooms across five-star and four-star establishments, representing a significant 64% share of the overall hotel rooms in the city, with average room occupancy typically ranging from 81% to 84%. One- to three-star hotels had a 19% share of Dubai’s overall hotel market, with the category comprising 29,100 rooms and a commendable 82% room occupancy rate. The hotel apartments segment boasted a total of 26,578 keys at the end of the first quarter and maintained a strong average room occupancy ranging from 84% to 85%.

Sustainability initiatives

With the UAE’s ‘Year of Sustainability’ extending into 2024, Dubai continues its commitment to sustainability by supporting global and country-wide objectives. Dubai’s tourism and hospitality sectors are spearheading this drive, with programmes and initiatives demonstrating the city’s ecotourism strategy.

Pioneering initiatives include those under the Dubai Can umbrella. The popular ‘Refill for Life’ campaign, promoting the use of reusable bottles and encouraging people to refill via 50 water fountains established throughout the city, has already seen the reduction in the usage of an equivalent of more than 18 million 500ml single-use plastic water bottles in just two years since its launch. A second Dubai Can initiative, Dubai Reef, is the world’s largest marine reef development project and part of the city’s efforts to increase fish stocks and boost marine biodiversity. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed recently inaugurated the landmark project’s pilot reef modules.

Entrepreneurship spur

DET is creating new pathways to growth beyond traditional tourism, through investment, entrepreneurship, and attracting global talent. Offering vocational training and educational programmes, Dubai College of Tourism (DCT), part of DET, is committed to developing a skilled workforce to support the growth of the tourism sector. Dubai also offers entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) a platform for ease of set-up and scale. Dubai SME provides financial support, mentorship, and resources to emerging entrepreneurs while Intelak Hub is the region’s only start-up platform dedicated to the travel, tourism, and aviation sectors.

Global leisure hub

Dubai’s gastronomic offering, catering to the diverse tastes of residents and visitors alike, continues to expand and is a cornerstone of the city’s tourism strategy. The city’s position as a global culinary capital was further established with 18 Dubai-based restaurants included in the 2024 MENA’s 50 Best Restaurants list, with four of them taking the top four places.

The ongoing expansion of the cruise sector is also seeing significant benefits for Dubai. In March this year, regional maritime and tourism authorities formalised the Cruise Arabia alliance – a strategic partnership that will promote the Arabian Gulf as a cruise ship destination globally and collaborate to enhance the cruise experience for passengers, attract more cruise liners, improve infrastructure at ports, and drive economic growth in the cruise tourism sector. Dubai has been a significant player in the Cruise Arabia alliance, working closely with its partners to create interconnected and integrated regional cruise services.

Dubai’s status as a global entertainment hub is being bolstered by new attractions and a year-round calendar of business, leisure, and sporting events, which continue to attract international tourists. The city’s newest major opening is Real Madrid World, an exciting theme park within Dubai Parks and Resorts, and the first to be operating under the branding of the world-famous football club. The opening of Real Madrid World follows the multi-year agreement signed in October last year between DET and Real Madrid, which will create growth opportunities for both institutions and support the D33 Agenda. Meanwhile, organised by Dubai Festivals and Retail Establishment (DFRE), some of Dubai’s biggest annual events were held during the first quarter of the year, including Dubai Shopping Festival. Currently taking place across the city until 12 May is the Dubai Food Festival, one of Dubai’s flagship events and a celebration of the city’s vibrant culinary scene.

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Ohio Air Force vet, brother sentenced to 4 months in 'notorious' Dubai prison after yacht drinking incident

T wo Ohio brothers, one an Air Force veteran, were sentenced to spend four months in a Dubai prison after an incident involving drinking on a yacht in June, a crime in the United Arab Emirates.

Radha Stirling, CEO of human rights organization Detained in Dubai and an advocate for Joseph and Joshua Lopez, alleges the brothers were drugged and robbed on the same night as the drinking that landed them in jail, and they are calling on U.S. lawmakers, including Republican Ohio Sen. JD Vance , for help. The drugging allegations have yet to be officially confirmed.

"Sen. Vance’s office has been in constant communication with the State Department, the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in the United States and the constituents’ family," Vance spokesperson Parker Magid told Fox News Digital. "Sen. Vance is monitoring the as-yet-unresolved legal proceedings carefully."

Stirling said the Lopez brothers are appealing their sentence, alleging they were "targeted by scammers while on vacation in Dubai."

WHAT EVER HAPPENED TO…AMERICANS DETAINED IN RUSSIA?

"While local criminals target tourists with what appears to be the support of law enforcement, Dubai is far from the ‘safe tourist destination’ it’s marketed as," Stirling said.

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The State Department told Fox News Digital in a statement it is aware of the Lopez brothers' recent arrests.

AMERICAN ARRESTED IN TURKS AND CAICOS SAYS IS ‘UNCLEAR’ IF STATE DEPT WAS ON ‘US SIDE’ OR ‘TURKS SIDE’

"We take our role in assisting U.S. citizens abroad seriously and are monitoring the situation," a spokesperson said. "Due to privacy and other considerations, we have no further comment at this time. U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the foreign countries they visit or reside in, even when those laws differ from U.S. law."

Neither the UAE Embassy nor the UAE tourist police responded to inquiries from Fox News Digital.

The State Department has a Level 2 travel advisory listed for the UAE due to threats of terrorism. The State Department's website for the UAE notes that alcohol is "very limited" in certain private areas, and "[p]ublic drunkenness and driving under the influence, regardless of one’s blood alcohol content level, are considered very serious offenses."

"Persons arrested on alcohol-related offenses are regularly detained for many days as they await a court hearing. Penalties may include hefty jail sentences, substantial fines and, for Muslims (even those holding U.S. citizenship), lashings," the website states.

The State Department also notes the country's "strict" laws on drugs, public decency, photography, social media usage and LGBTQ-related activities or preferences.

OKLAHOMA MAN PRAISES GOD, US LAWMAKER IN RETURN HOME AFTER AMMO ARREST IN TURKS AND CAICOS

Stirling said if the brothers' appeal is unsuccessful, Joseph, a veteran and 24-year-old father, and Joshua "face months in Dubai jails notorious for human rights abuses."

"Visitors are flocking into Dubai and facing the most ridiculous charges for alleged crimes they haven’t even committed. Last year, we saw Tierra Allen targeted by a rental car company, Elizabeth de las Santos targeted by an immigration officer and Peter Clark detained for residual hashish found in his blood that he’d legally smoked in Las Vegas weeks before flying," Stirling said.

She is pressing the United States to "increase travel warnings" for Americans going to Dubai.

"Not only will they be robbed and extorted, but they’ll usually end up in prison too," she said.

Fox News' Mollie Markowitz contributed to this report.

Original article source: Ohio Air Force vet, brother sentenced to 4 months in 'notorious' Dubai prison after yacht drinking incident

I'm an American who visited Dubai for the first time. Here are 11 things I wish I knew before I went.

• When I visited Dubai for the first time, there were some things I wish I had known beforehand.
• The weather during my stay was amazing, so I think the winter season is the best time to visit.
• The city is bigger than I expected so I'd recommend hiring a guide to see as much as possible.

I visited Dubai for the first time and loved my time there. However, there were a few things I wish I had known before I went on the trip .

Here are a few things I would've wanted to know before I went to Dubai.

Now I know the winter season is the best time to visit, mostly because of the pleasant weather.

Dubai has year-round sunshine , but I now know the best time to visit the city is during the winter, which, according to US News , spans from November to early March.

When I went in January 2022, the temperature ranged from 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit without any humidity. It was warm enough to enjoy touring and being out and about.

The temperature was also perfect when I stayed in the city and went to the desert. There was a slight breeze by the sea and marina, but nothing that required a jacket during the day. The sundresses and lightweight dresses I packed worked perfectly, but I advise bringing a jacket or long-sleeve shirt since it can get a bit chilly in the evening.

There are so many activities that you likely won't be able to do them all.

I didn't realize just how big Dubai was until I visited . There is an endless amount of activities, so I would suggest trying to identify your priorities before landing in the city.

Based on my experience, I recommend visiting the Burj Khalifa (the tallest building in the world), going on the Ain Dubai, wandering the souks, and strolling along the Jumeirah Beach Residence Walk.

At night, it's worth snagging tickets to see the La Perle show and walking around the Dubai Mall to see the fountain show and lights around the Burj Khalifa.

Dubai is filled with record-breaking attractions but also tons of history and culture.

Though the world's tallest building and highest observation wheel were worth seeing , don't skip the historical part of the city. Visiting Al Seef, the souks, and taking an abra (a boat) across the river were definitely highlights of the trip.

Parts of the city are extremely innovative and new, but older areas showcase its history and culture. Seeing both allowed me to appreciate how the city has evolved over time.

Abu Dhabi is definitely worth a day trip and is only about an hour and a half away.

Though I originally planned on visiting only one of the seven emirates, the emirate of Dubai , my friends told me I had to incorporate a day trip to Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and is located in the eponymous emirate. We hired a tour guide to take us on the hour-and-a-half drive to Abu Dhabi and around the main sites.

Dubai isn't the only city with gorgeous sites and history — there are incredible places to visit nearby.

In Abu Dhabi, we visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Qasr Al Watan ( a working Presidential palace ), and Heritage Village.

I loved the emirate so much that I'd love to go back just to see more of it.

In addition to offering traditional Middle-Eastern food, Dubai seemed to have every other cuisine imaginable.

I'm allergic to sesame, so I was worried about what I'd eat on this trip since Middle-Eastern food and Emirati cuisine often use this ingredient.

However, Dubai had every cuisine I could imagine. Everything from Italian food to Chinese options was available, so my choices were not limited.

Though everything we tried was delicious, the food could be pricey.

Palm Jumeirah and Dubai International Financial Centre are closer to the main attractions than some other popular areas where visitors stay.

Since Dubai is such a large city, I think it's best to stay close to its attractions . I selected the Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre because it was only a two-minute drive (or a 20-minute walk) to the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall and close to restaurants and shops.

Since it was in the center of the city, grabbing taxis and finding transportation was easy.

Many visitors also opt to stay in Palm Jumeirah, which has waterfront hotels with larger properties and private beaches. It's still close to the city but has some privacy.

Hiring a tour guide ended up being the best decision I made on my trip — and it was quite affordable.

I hired tour guides to maximize my time in Dubai , which was one of the best decisions I made. 

We hired guides to take us around the city on our first day, as well as on our day trip to Abu Dhabi, the desert, and a nightlife tour. We made the most of our time in the city and we saw a ton.

We booked most of the guides through the hotel or by recommendations from friends and family who had visited. Each guide was relatively affordable and was accompanied by a driver.

You must bring appropriate attire for mosques and other holy sites.

The holy sites we visited had a dress code . Men should wear a shirt with sleeves that are at least elbow length with long trousers. In mosques, women need to wear an abaya and shayla, which covers their body and hair.

You can purchase an abaya and shayla at many tourist sites or borrow them ahead of entry. I didn't realize the mosques had a dress code, but I would have planned my outfit beforehand if I had.

Don't let your worries about sand and heat cause you to pass up a trip to the desert.

I typically stay away from deserts, but dune bashing — driving at varying speeds over sand dunes — in Dubai was one of my favorite activities on the trip . It was almost like riding a roller coaster on the sand and we got to see a beautiful sunset before heading back to the city. 

Don't miss dune bashing if you take a trip to the emirate.

Souks are some of the best places to buy souvenirs or spices.

You can grab souvenirs from just about any attraction in Dubai, but I think you'll get the best prices and selection at the souks, or marketplaces.

Dubai has a multitude of open-air souks, ranging from one for gold to a market for spices, and they each sell a wide variety of items. I purchased spices, jewelry, and souvenirs from different souks and strongly believe they're worth checking out.

This story was originally published on September 12, 2022, and most recently updated on August 16, 2024.

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Things to do

31 Amazing things to do in Dubai for the ultimate holiday

Sun, August 14, 2022

Tick off the city's top things to do and places to visit.

Burj Khalifa

Standing 828m high, the  Burj Khalifa  is the tallest building in the world and one of Dubai's must-visit attractions. The majestic building is located in the heart of the city and is a hub of activity day and night. Just looking up in awe at the sheer scale of this magnificent structure is memorable in itself, but it's definitely worth venturing inside too. You can capture perfect views of the city from the  observation  deck at levels 124 and 125, or have a bite to eat in the  At The Top Sky Lounge . For special occasions, treat yourself to a sunset session at The Lounge, Burj Khalifa ,  the highest lounge in the world at 585m. 

Opening hours - At The Top:  8am - 12am, daily

Price - At The Top: from AED169

• 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai

The Dubai Fountain

Located at the base of Burj Khalifa  is one of the world's largest choreographed fountain displays, where powerful jet streams soar as high as 150m in the air and sway in time to musical numbers. Stop by in the evening when displays begin at sundown and take place every 30 minutes, until the final song plays at 11pm. Diners can also sit back and enjoy the show at an array of restaurants at Dubai Mall  or Souk Al Bahar , both commanding prime positions near the fountain arena.

Opening hours:  6pm - 11pm, daily

Price:  free

• Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Dubai

Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah is one of the largest manmade islands in the world and a triumph of human ingenuity. Locals and tourists alike flock to its vast array of high-end hotels – Waldorf Astoria, Fairmont, One&Only, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray  and, perhaps most notably, Atlantis, The Palm . Getting here is simple, thanks to the monorail running down the 'trunk', which connects to the mainland's tram system.

• Palm Jumeirah - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Dubai Creek

• Baniyas Rd, Deira, Dubai

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. Best seen on foot, this area offers nostalgic views of a bygone era with traditional windtowers and a maze of winding alleyways, positioned along the historic waterways of Dubai Creek. Visit Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) to appreciate local culture with Arabic classes, heritage tours and guided mosque visits. After exploring, take an atmospheric abra  boat ride  to the souks on the other side of the creek. 

• Al Fahidi St, Al Souq Al Kabeer, Bur Dubai

The Dubai desert

Less than a 20 minute-drive from the modern streets of Downtown Dubai lies the mystique-filled Arabian desert. Go on a Dubai-style desert safari, complete with thrilling activities  such as quad biking and sandboarding. Those looking for luxury can book a safari with leading tour companies  Platinum Heritage  and Arabian Adventures . From the unforgettable offroad drive to cultural fun with henna painting and camel rides, and a feast of local cuisine under the stars, it's an only-in-Dubai treat. Want to stay a little longer? Treat yourself to an unforgettable night amid the dunes at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa .

• Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai-Al Ain Rd - Dubai

Dubai Mall is the world’s largest destination for shopping, entertainment and leisure, located next to the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Featuring over 1,200 retail stores, two major department stores and hundreds of food and beverage outlets, Dubai Mall covers more than 1 million sqm – an area equivalent to 200 football pitches. Even an entire day spent here is not enough to see it all. Along with its 1,200-plus shops and 150 restaurants, the venue  is home to a range of other fun attractions.

Opening hours: 10am - 1am, daily, except Wednesday (closes at midnight)

• Financial Centre Road - Downtown Dubai

Skydive Dubai

If there's one thing every adventure-seeker must sign up for, it's a skydiving experience. Skydive Dubai provides tandem skydive opportunities, supervised by trained professionals. You'll have to book well in advance to secure a spot, but it's worth it as you dive through the clouds from 13,000 feet and take in views  of the landmark Palm Jumeirah or rolling dunes of the desert. And you can keep reliving the epic experience thanks to perfectly-captured videos by the Skydive Dubai team. It's one for every braveheart's bucket list.

• Al Seyahi Street, Dubai Marina - Dubai

Madinat Jumeirah

Literally translated as 'City of Jumeirah', the Madinat Jumeirah complex is inspired by an ancient citadel. Housing luxury hotels and private enclaves designed to reflect traditional Arabian architecture, it's a great spot to indulge in a therapeutic day at the world-class Talise Spa , splurge on local trinkets and boutique brands at the Madinat Souk , or immerse yourself in the work of famous artists at the high-tech Theatre of Digital Art . And, with over 40 restaurants and lounges featuring cuisines from around the world, it's also an ideal place to refuel.

Opening hours & price: vary, depending on venues within the complex

• 6 King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Dubai

Dubai Frame

Since opening in 2018,  Dubai Frame  has become a cultural landmark that connects the Dubai's past with its present and represents a remarkable engineering feat.  Located within Dubai's famous Zabeel Park , this attraction lets you experience the transition between Old and New Dubai thanks to sweeping panoramic views of the city from 150m high. One of its striking features is the state-of-the-art clear glass bridge walkway, which connects parallel vertical towers so that, from the outside, the structure perfectly resembles a giant picture frame.

Opening hours:  9am - 9pm, daily

Price:  from AED20

• Zabeel Park, Za'abeel 1 - Dubai

The aptly-named Kite Beach is the perfect place to test out your watersports skills , although there's plenty to do out of the water at this popular spot too. Grab a smoothie from one of the many open-air cafes and restaurants, watch bikers and skaters fly by at the skate park, or enjoy a game of volleyball with friends on the sand. With plenty of beach activities, plus an incredible view of Burj Al Arab  in the distance, you can easily spend a whole day here.

Opening hours: 24 hours, daily, although sporting and dining venues at the beach have varying timings.

• Umm Suqeim, just off Jumeirah Beach Road

Dubai Water Canal

Dubai Water Canal is a 3.2-kilometre-long waterway extending from the Creek in Old Dubai  through Business Bay before finding its way to the Arabian Gulf. With 80,000sqm of public space and facilities and a 12km cycling path, the Canal has become a popular visitor attraction. There are also five pedestrian bridges that snake their way across the iconic waterway, so it's the perfect spot to stroll and take in classic views of the city at its best. Nearby is the Al Habtoor City  development, home to the thrilling  La Perle by Dragone  show, five-star hotels and an array of trendy restaurants.

• Dubai Water Canal, Al Safa, Dubai

If you'd like to shop, dine, watch a movie and swim in the sea all in one place, consider a trip to The Beach, opposite Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). With guest DJs playing on most weekends, a cinema and plenty of trendy boutiques , The Beach is always buzzing with activity. Take your pick from the range of dining options, try the exhilarating watersports on offer or just enjoy some relaxation time in a cabana with your favourite book. The Beach is also connected to the trendy new  Bluewaters Island  district by a pedestrian bridge.

Opening hours - F&B outlets: 10am - midnight, Saturday - Wednesday, extended to 1am on Thursday and Friday 

• The Beach, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai

City Walk offers European-style pedestrian streets alongside a host of shopping and entertainment options – perfect for a pleasant day out. Take a walk along tree-lined avenues with shops and restaurants and spot artwork etched by some of the world's finest urban artists . Afterwards, treat your family to an afternoon of fun and head over to The Green Planet  to see real wildlife in an indoor tropical rainforest setting. You can also catch a concert, live sports or a comedy show at the nearby  Coca-Cola Arena , the Middle East's largest indoor arena.

• Al Wasl and Al Safa Road Junction, Sheikh Zayed Rd - Al Wasl - Dubai

Dubai Miracle Garden

A world of floral wonder awaits you at Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest natural flower garden. The 72,000sqm park has an impressive line-up of famous buildings and structures completely transformed into colourful flower displays. You can immerse yourself among more than 50 million blooming flowers throughout the different exhibits. The nearby Dubai Butterfly Garden  is also worth a trip. Here, children can explore over 15,000 species of butterflies whilst learning more about them in a fun setting.

Opening hours:  9am - 9pm on weekdays, extended until 10pm on Saturday and Sunday

Price:  from AED60

• Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand Area, Dubai

Dubai Opera

Located in the Downtown district, Dubai Opera offers an enticing performing arts schedule from the likes of London’s West End and Manhattan’s Broadway. With views of  The Dubai Fountain  and located next to Burj Khalifa , the eye-catching exteriors are inspired by Arabian dhow ships while the stage area is designed to easily convert into three different event platforms: theatre, hall or concert hall. Want to know what's playing at Dubai Opera while you're holidaying in the city? Visit  Dubai Calendar .

Opening hours:  10am - 9pm, daily (show timings may vary)

Price:  from AED145

• Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard (near Burj Khalifa), Downtown Dubai, Dubai
• Dubai Marina

A 130km drive south-east of Downtown Dubai is Hatta , a not-to-be-missed scenic getaway. In this mountain town you can try kayaking along the serene Hatta Lake, or traversing rocky mountains on foot with specially-crafted hiking experiences . Recent additions to the area include Hatta Dome Park ,  a glamping experience that takes advantage of  Hatta’s mountainscape  views and back-to-nature vibes, plus  a chic lodge-style hotel and trailer parks. Indulge in a host of adventure activities such as zorbing, mountain biking and more at Hatta Wadi Hub. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, as the Hub is also home to Asia’s first ever water jump park, Hatta Drop-In.

• Hatta Wadi Hub, located off the Dubai-Hatta road

IMG Worlds of Adventure

Unlimited fun, excitement, speed and 5D entertainment – you can expect it all at IMG Worlds of Adventure. This enormous theme park  is the same size as 28 football pitches put together. With the most up-to-date and exciting rides , IMG Worlds of Adventure brings your favourite characters to life. Give your little ones the best time with rides featuring Ben 10, Powerpuff Girls and LazyTown, while older kids can delve into the world of Spider-Man, Hulk, Iron Man and The Avengers.

Opening hours : noon - 10pm, Sunday to Thursday, extended to 11pm on the weekend

Price - general admission:  AED345

• E311, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, City of Arabia Dubai Land, Dubai

Dubai Parks and Resorts

Dubai Parks and Resorts adds to the city's reputation as an entertainment paradise. Children are bound to get excited in the labyrinth of magnificent theme parks, which includes  Motiongate , Real Madrid World  and Legoland and Legoland Water Park . Adults can relax at the Riverland Boulevard , home to restaurants and a range of open-air entertainment. Don't want to leave? Check in to the luxury Polynesian-style hotel, The Lapita, or the region's first and only Legoland Hotel, both located within the theme park destination.

Opening hours:  10am - 11pm, daily

Price - One Park Pass:  from AED295

• Sheikh Zayed Road, Opposite Palm Jebel Ali, Dubai

The View at The Palm

Enjoy incomparable views of one of Dubai’s most talked about landmarks at The View at The Palm. Located 240m high, the observation deck presents never seen before 360-degree panoramas of  Palm Jumeirah  alongside the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline  in the distance. The View at The Palm is located on level 52 of The Palm Tower, which also houses a café, a creative exhibition that showcases the development of the island, interactive aquarium-themed tunnels and a gift shop. 

Opening hours : 9am - 10pm, weekdays, extended to midnight on weekends

Price:  from AED100

• Level 52, The Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Deep Dive Dubai

The latest addition to the city's thriving sports and adventure activities scene, Deep Dive Dubai is the place to be for all aqua enthusiasts . The recreational centre's 60.02m-deep pool is certified by Guinness World Records as the world's deepest swimming pool for diving. Aside from its remarkable depth, the pool features other unrivalled underwater additions, such as a 'sunken city', alongside year-round freediving and  scuba diving  courses and guided experiences.

Opening hours : 9am - 6pm, except on Friday (closed)

Price:  from AED400

• Deep Dive Dubai, NAS Sports Complex, Dubai

Sky Views Dubai

Thrill-seekers can try a trio of epic experiences at Sky Views Dubai, perched 219.5m above ground on top of the Address Sky View hotel. The Glass Slide allows visitors to zoom down a transparent tunnel on the 53rd floor, while the Observatory features a glass elevator and bridge to further test your head for heights. Meanwhile, true risk-takers will look forward to the Edge Walk – as they dangle off the building's side while strapped to a safety harness. All three experiences allow participants to enjoy phenomenal views  of Downtown Dubai's iconic landmarks, including the nearby Burj Khalifa .

Opening hours : 10am - 10pm, weekdays, extended to midnight on weekends

Price:  from AED70

• Address Sky View hotel, Emaar Square Area, Downtown Dubai

Burj Al Arab

For the first time since its launch, Dubai's famed Burj Al Arab  has opened its doors to visitors, granting access to the hotel's ultra-luxurious interiors on an immersive 90-minute tour. Not only will you get to explore the landmark’s gilded suites, and enjoy its incomparable views of the city , but you'll also uncover the hotel’s history and wealth of untold stories. You can also delve deeper and make the most of your experience with tour customisations.

Tour timings: 9:30am - 8:30pm, daily Price: from AED249

• Jumeirah Road - Umm Suqeim 3 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Museum of the Future

One of Dubai's most famous architectural landmarks , the Museum of the Future  takes pride of place along the city's superhighway, Sheikh Zayed Road. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation, the museum explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using science and technology. Termed a 'living museum', it incorporates elements of traditional exhibitions, immersive theatre and themed attractions, so visitors can look beyond the present and towards the future's limitless possibilities.

Opening hours : 10am - 9:30pm, daily

Price:  from AED149

• Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre - Dubai

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

Built along the historic Dubai Creek and designed in the shape of a traditional Islamic lectern, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is the latest cultural hotspot to open its doors in the city. A landmark  unique to Dubai, the library is the largest in the region and representative of its collective cultural wisdom, educational milestones and continued forays in research and academia. Aside from enjoying the remarkable architecture and exploring the library's nine levels, visitors can discover a fully digitalised laboratory and several specialised collections inside.

Opening hours : 9am - 9pm, daily, except on Friday (opens 2pm) and Sunday (closed)

Price:  free

• Dubai Creek, Al Jaddaf

Serious foodies can’t possibly visit Dubai without making a stop at the  MENA 50 Best Restaurants  top spot, 3Fils. Its chic yet casual setting, coupled with calming harbourside views and a no-reservations policy, makes this one of Dubai's most unassumingly spectacular dining hotspots . Serving modern Asian cuisine, you’ll find tantalising dishes such as salmon carpaccio, wagyu sushi and fire-grilled octopus on the menu.  Opening hours : noon - 11:30pm, daily

• Shop 2, Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1, Al Urouba St, Jumeirah - Dubai

Aura Skypool

Unwind in the world's highest 360-degree swimming pool as you gaze out at landmarks including Burj Al Arab  and Ain Dubai. Situated 200m above ground, AURA Skypool is the perfect place for an unforgettable swim. Visitors to the Palm Jumeirah venue can also relax in its chic lounge area and sample a menu filled with delicious sharing plates and Pan-Asian flavours . Standouts to try include the glazed miso salmon, chilli honey cauliflower popcorn and matcha tiramisu. 

Opening hours : 10am - 7pm, daily

Price:  from AED150

• The Palm Tower, 50th Floor, Palm Jumeirah

Prepare to be amazed by Dubai's first permanent show, which combines acting, acrobatics, aquatic feats and aerial stunts across an exhilarating 90 minutes. All the action takes place inside a tailor-made, 1,300-seat theatre in the heart of Al Habtoor City , featuring a high-tech ‘aqua-stage’ that can fill with 2.7 million litres of water. Watch from the edge of your seat as performers dive, fly and defy gravity, as they tell a story which pays homage to the UAE's pearl diving history .

Show timings : 6:30pm - 8pm & 9pm - 11:30pm, daily

Price:  from AED209

• Al Habtoor City, 260 Sheikh Zayed Rd, Business Bay - Dubai

Alserkal Avenue

Once an industrial area in the centre of Dubai, Alserkal Avenue now comprises around 40 warehouses, converted into galleries, dance studios, artisanal cafes and more. The neighbourhood has nurtured a culture of creativity and is now one of the region’s leading art hubs. Since its humble beginnings as a standalone gallery in 2008, word caught on and similar concepts soon moved into the area. Popular spots include arthouse theatre  Cinema Akil , the hipster-inspired  Nightjar Coffee  and Leila Heller Gallery.

• 17th Street, Al Quoz 1, Dubai

Expo City Dubai

Building on the legacy of Expo 2020 Dubai , which welcomed 192 nations and more than 24 million visitors, is the future-centric Expo City Dubai. Explore popular country pavilions including the falcon-inspired UAE Pavilion, award-winning Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Pavilion and reworked spaces for Luxembourg, Pakistan and Australia. Alif – the Mobility Pavilion and Terra – the Sustainability Pavilion have been transformed into interactive educational experiences, while the Opportunity Pavilion is now the Expo 2020 Dubai Museum.  Al Wasl Plaza , the Dubai Exhibition Centre, the Garden in the Sky observation tower and the Surreal water feature also remain at Expo City Dubai, which has its own metro station. 

Opening hours: 24 hours daily, though attraction timings vary Price: free to enter, though attraction tickets vary

• Expo Road Dubai South, Jebel Ali

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Billionaire Luxury Tourism Dubai

Plan Your Trip to Dubai

While you’re here for the show, plan your perfect trip to Dubai with our useful traveller information and recommended itineraries.

Dubai is an important hub for international travel. The emirate’s most popular airport and second-busiest in world, Dubai International Airport (DXB) hosts flights from a wide variety of destinations. The airport is the home base of award-winning Emirates Airlines which—along with 100 other airlines—serves more than 7,000 flights per week and 260 destinations across six continents. The growth of flights on popular low-cost carriers, such as the homegrown flydubai, has also exponentially increased. At Dubai World Trade Centre, 7 out of every 10 of our participants fly Emirates or flydubai, due to their incredible range of connectivity.

Dubai is connected to neighboring emirates via an excellent highway system. From Sharjah, the E11 highway (Sheikh Zayed Road), E311, E88 and E102 are all popular routes into Dubai. From Abu Dhabi, the E11, E311, E66 and E44 highways offer inbound options. For those driving to Dubai from another GCC country, the United Arab Emirates border can be accessed through Saudi Arabia or Oman, with appropriate and valid visa(s).

Business and leisure locations around Dubai are quite spread out, so renting a car affords visitors the most convenience in reaching destinations. The emirate offers both locally- and internationally-recognised car rental options for visitors, and paid parking is available at most destinations. Parking rates vary from 3 AED to 10 AED per hour, depending on which area of the city you are in. The emirate is also now equipped with pay-per-minute vehicles, which further open the transportation possibilities. Driving regulations may vary, but many visitors are eligible to drive with an International Driving Permit and a licence from their home country. Consult your embassy or consulate for details.

Use the metro

Dubai’s metro system is budget-friendly, clean and air-conditioned way to travel around the emirate. There are two lines: the Red Line runs the length of Dubai, connecting to many significant landmarks along the way, while the Green Line primarily serves ‘old’ Dubai, including the Creek area and the souks of Bur Dubai and Deira. Tram service, known as the Orange Line, provides dedicated access to points around Dubai Marina. Driverless trains run roughly every five minutes and can be accessed with a Nol Card, which can be obtained from any station, including the one at Dubai World Trade Centre.

Taxis are efficient, metered and reasonably priced, and most drivers are familiar with our venue and with various popular destinations around the city. Taxis can also be booked in advance through the DTC Smart App.

Book an Uber or Careem

Metred private taxis and on-demand transport services are growing in popularity and readily available around Dubai. If you already have a Careem or Uber app from another country, the same app can be used to book your ride in Dubai. If you are unfamiliar with Careem or Uber, both companies offer downloadable apps for both Android and iOS platforms.

Visa Information

Obtaining a short-term visa to UAE for an event or exhibition is simple and straightforward for guests of many nationalities. Passport-holders from more than 50 nations are eligible to receive a 30-day tourist visa on arrival. Please consult your individual embassy before planning your travel to Dubai to determine if your passport qualifies. Visas can also be arranged by hotels or tour operators.

Customs Information

Like all countries, the UAE has rules about what you can and can’t bring with you. Before travelling to Dubai, please ensure that your check-in and hand luggage do not contain restricted items. Certain over-the-counter medications, substances, materials and printed content are illegal in the UAE—and customs officers scan all incoming baggage thoroughly. Additionally, your passport must be valid for at least six months past your planned date of entry.

Local Culture

Dubai is a diverse and welcoming city with a rich heritage rooted in Arab culture and Islam. All attires and cultural preferences are generally acceptable; however, dressing conservatively is appreciated. Refrain from swearing in public and always ask permission before photographing anyone. Avoid eating or drinking publicly during Ramadan. Alcohol is served in certain licensed establishments, including select restaurants and most hotels across the city.

Currency Exchange

The local currency in Dubai is the Arab Emirate Dirham (officially AED or unofficially Dhs). Foreign currency can be changed at either of the airports or at any exchange counter located in malls, plazas and other public areas. Small retailers and taxi drivers appreciate small bills. Credit and debit cards are widely used. Many shops, hotels and restaurants accept US dollars, euros and pound sterling but at a higher exchange rate.

Dubai is located in the heart of the Arabian Desert. Weather remains warm and sunny all year long. The cooler months of October to April are considered the best season to enjoy the outdoors, with average temperatures ranging from 20 to 30 Celsius (68 to 86 Fahrenheit). From May to September, you can expect temperatures of 40 to 50 Celsius (104 to 122 Fahrenheit)

Embassies and Consulates

Many countries maintain an embassy or consulate in the UAE, and these serve as the best source of information on the latest travel requirements for your nationality. Most embassies or consulates also allow you to register your presence in the country, to expedite contacts and arrangements in your home country in case of emergency.

Mobile Services

There are two mobile services providers in the UAE market that offer visitor packages—Etisalat or du. You can purchase a local SIM card by showing your passport and visa. Note that internet-based voice calling services on apps like Skype and WhatsApp are now restricted in the UAE. Most malls, hotels and public locations offer free Wi-Fi.

Suggested Itineraries

Five days of adventure with the family, action-packed dubai holiday, a contemporary art journey, a weekend of arts and culture, dubai heritage highlights, discover the best of old dubai, see what’s on.

EXPLORE EVENTS TAKING PLACE AT DWTC AND AROUND DUBAI WHILE YOU ARE HERE.

Welcome To BTI

The BTI is a critical conduit to guide your Barbados investment experience by providing details on all relevant private sector and government agencies to help you better leverage your time and resources.

The Government of Barbados has acknowledged the importance of travel and tourism as a vital export sector and has offered attractive incentives to investors such as a reduction of duties and taxes on all inputs to the industry. Factors such as this has led to the island being voted in the top 10% worldwide for its emphasis on the travel and tourism industry.

Message from the CEO – Stuart Layne

To be the lead Agency for facilitating investment in tourism and urban regeneration in Barbados

Corporate Profile

Barbados Tourism Investment Inc. (BTI) was formed under the Companies Act on April 17, 1998. The Government of Barbados is the sole shareholder and is represented by the Prime Minister’s Office. BTI has the following mandate:

• to develop a portfolio of tourism-related properties on its own or in joint venture with private and public partners;
• to manage the implementation of the Urban Rehabilitation Programme for Bridgetown, Speightstown, St. Lawrence Gap, Oistins as Executing Agency for the Government of Barbados; and
• to facilitate both public and private sector-owned investment in tourism and hospitality sector in Barbados

About Barbados

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Language and Culture

The official language of Barbados is English, however the local dialect “bajan” is the natural choice for casual and social communication. Barbados is considered to be the activity centre of the Eastern Caribbean and its culture is expressed through lively calypso music, rhythmic dance, national festivals and fairs. Arts, crafts and island cuisine are equally expressive of the essence of Barbados.

A wide range of sports including cricket, soccer, sailing, golf, and basketball are played on the island with great enthusiasm. Many Barbadian sportsmen have excelled internationally in a wide range of sporting disciplines including athletics, cricket and draughts.

Demographics

• Area: 431 Km./166 Sq. Miles
• Population: 287, 415 (2015)
• Capital City: BRIDGETOWN
• Labour Force: 130,200 (June 2006)
• Language: English
• Air Temperature: 22-30º C/ 70-90º F
• Relative Humidity: 60-70º
• Currency: Barbados Dollar (BDS$)
• Fixed Parity: BDS $1.00 –US $0.50
• Major Trading Partners: USA, CARICOM, UK, Canada, Japan

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Explore official resources and permits from the Department of Economy and Tourism to help you launch your business, event or tourism service in Dubai.

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