Is Dubai Worth Visiting: 33 Best Reasons to Go to Dubai

If you’re thinking whether you should travel to Dubai, let me tell you:

Dubai is worth visiting for its futuristic infrastructure, turbulent growth, luxury shopping, unparalleled museums, and fantastic beaches. You should travel to the Emirati city for the huge aquariums, the indoor ski slopes, the record-breaking Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Burj Al Arab, and The Palm.

After exploring Dubai several times, it mesmerized me with its cosmopolitan vibes. That’s why I prepared this list with the top 33 reasons to visit Dubai.

Put your travel seatbelt on and let’s dive in!

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Visit Dubai for the Unparalleled Landmarks

The City of Gold boasts several record-breaking attractions. In the following section, I’ve prepared for you the landmarks that make Dubai worth visiting.

1. Burj Khalifa. Holding multiple world records, Burj Khalifa is a true architectural masterpiece. It’s the tallest skyscraper, the tallest freestanding building, and the structure with the most floors on the planet. Burj Khalifa houses the luxurious Armani Hotel, the highest observation tower worldwide, and thousands of offices. To visit the observation deck and admire the staggering views of Dubai, book your ticket here. Best time to visit? An hour before sunset to watch the sun melt on the horizon.
2. Burj Al Arab. Luxury is one of the top things Dubai is famous for. No wonder its most deluxe hotel is a landmark on its own. The incredible design, the location on its own island, and the Rolls-Royce and helicopter shuttles make Burj Al Arab the definition of luxe. Don’t want to spend a fortune on sleeping there?  You can still marvel at the mind-bending hotel during this entertaining tour.
3. Dubai Frame. The largest frame in the world is a metaphorical bridge between the Emirate’s rich past and its magnificent present. Dubai Frame is an observatory, a museum, and a monument. Located in Zabeel Park, it “frames” New and Old Dubai. The observation deck spans the top of the frame. Through the glass floors, you can look down 492 ft. (150 m). Tickets are available via this link.
4. Palm Jumeirah. The manmade archipelago is Dubai’s most recognizable neighborhood. The authorities created the islands by reclaiming land from the sea. The coolest way to visit Palm Jumeirah is using the driverless, 3.4-mi (5.4-km) long monorail. It’s the first of its kind in the Middle East. On the tip of the palm-tree-shaped archipelago, you’ll see the stunning Atlantis Hotel. You can’t mistake its seashell-pink arches and imposing turrets. In the complex, an aquarium, a water park, and a private beach will pamper you.
5. The Dubai Fountain. Don’t miss the otherworldly performance at the Dubai Fountain. The music and light shows are some of the best things to do in Dubai. The spectacle takes place every day at 12:30 PM and from 6:30 PM to 11:00 PM. To secure a good viewing spot, arrive several minutes before the start. The spectacle is worth the wait. Illuminated by more than 6,600 lights and 50 colored projectors, the fountains shoot water up to 500 ft. (152.4 m) into the air. The stunning choreography follows a mix of international, classical, and modern Arabic music pieces.
6. Dubai Miracle Garden. One of the craziest facts about Dubai is that the desert city hosts the largest natural flower garden on the planet. Dubai Miracle Garden boasts 50 million flowers and 250 million plants on an area of 780,000 sq. ft. (72,000 sq. m). Skillful landscape architects create new mind-boggling flower sculptures every season. So, even if you’ve already been to the Dubai Miracle Garden, make sure to include it on your next trip’s itinerary as well.
7. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. The aquarium’s 10-million-liter tank provides a home to more than 140 species and is one of the attractions that make Dubai worth visiting. You can observe thousands of aquatic animals, among which 400+ sharks and rays, in Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. If you’re brave enough, you can join the thrilling cage snorkeling or shark dives. Satiate your water sports cravings by grabbing your ticket online.

Travel to Dubai for the Fascinating Museums

Past and future co-exist in the city’s fantastic museums. Let’s find out which collections make Dubai worth exploring.

8. Museum of the Future. If you’re seeking a glimpse into the future of technology and design, you should visit the Museum of the Future. Located in the Financial District, the museum consists of three main elements: a building, a green hill, and a void. The exhibitions explore the latest advancements in AI and biotechnology. The museum offers a chance to see cutting-edge robots and VR, making it a prime destination for tech enthusiasts. Whether you’re interested in the future or simply looking for a unique experience, the Museum of the Future won’t disappoint.
9. Dubai Museum. Situated in the Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai Museum is a fascinating historical landmark that dates back to 1787. As the oldest existing building in Dubai, the fort is a testament to the city’s rich history and heritage and a spot I highly recommend visiting. The museum’s edifice is beautifully restored and air-conditioned. The exhibition space provides you with a comfortable and informative environment to explore the traditional way of life and the history of the Emirate of Dubai.
10. Coffee Museum. If you’re a coffee lover, you shouldn’t miss the Coffee Museum. Located in a gorgeous building, which blends regional and oriental architecture, the museum will welcome you with its chill atmosphere. After learning about the cultivation and production of the precious beverage, head to the cozy café. Choose your favorite sort of fragrant beans. Then, treat your taste buds to an Arabic, Ethiopian, or Japanese-style coffee. The best part about the Coffee Museum? It has free entrance.
11. House of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum. Sheikh Saeed bin Maktoum al Maktoum, the former ruler of Dubai, resided in this building. Built in 1896, the house showcases the city’s marine history, pearl diving industry, and traditional way of life. Its beautiful courtyard features intricate Arabic designs and a water fountain. You can explore the lavish interior filled with antiques, photographs, and artifacts.
12. Heritage Village. The open-air Heritage Village museum displays traditional Arabian architecture and Bedouin life. You can observe craftsmen demonstrating their skills in weaving and pottery-making. You can also shop for souvenirs and local handicrafts at the on-site market. The village boasts a replica of a traditional souk and a mosque, as well as a museum that features archaeological artifacts and historical exhibits. The Heritage Village is a great place to learn about Dubai’s past and experience the city’s rich cultural heritage.
13. Etihad Museum. This museum is dedicated to the founding of the United Arab Emirates and represents the country’s cultural heritage. You can explore the immersive exhibitions and get a glimpse into the Emirati past through interactive displays, photographs, and artifacts. The Etihad Museum’s building itself is an architectural marvel. This fact alone makes Dubai worth visiting. It features a unique design in the shape of a manuscript that signifies the signing of the U.A.E.’s constitution.
14. Dubai Pearl Museum. Most of the big merchant dynasties in the Gulf accumulated their fortunes from the pearling industry. It comes as no surprise that the Dubai Pearl Museum is home to one of the most exquisite pearl collections worldwide. Learn about the profitable trade through its pearl and coin collections. The entrance is free, but you should book your visit two days in advance via this link.

Go to Dubai for the Unparalleled Shopping Opportunities

Besides great deals, the shopping arcades in the City of Gold offer unparalleled entertainment as well. Explore the shopping malls and souks that make Dubai worth visiting below.

15. Dubai Mall. Another record-breaking edifice, which makes Dubai worth visiting, is the world’s largest shopping mall. Dubai Mall houses the Dubai Aquarium, an Olympic-size ice rink, a 150 million-year-old dinosaur skeleton, one of the largest bookshops in the world, tons of fast-food and high-end restaurants, and a whopping 1,200+ stores. The shopping center is also one of the best places to observe the magnificent shows of the Dubai Fountain.
16. Mall of the Emirates. The most famous feature of the Mall of the Emirates is its net of ski slopes. No, I’m not joking. In Dubai, you can go skiing in the middle of the desert. The ski slopes are open all year round, even when the outside temperatures are over 100° F (38° C). If you’re not a ski fan, more than 600 stores will surely satiate your shopping appetite.
17. Dubai Gold Souk. Don’t miss this bustling bazaar if you enjoy the sight of intricate golden jewels. An elegant wooden arch marks the entrance to the Dubai Gold Souk. In its alleys, you can browse through over 380 stores selling sparkling jewelry. The souk is in the district of Deira, which is one of the best areas to stay in Dubai.
18. Dubai Spice Souk. Looking for an exhilarating experience for your senses? Then, head to the Old Souk also known as Dubai Spice Souk. Walking around the mountains of fragrant herbs and spices is a colorful, aromatic, and sensory adventure. Stroll around the diverse stalls and chat with the vendors. They’ll give you indispensable ideas on how to incorporate exotic flavors in your kitchen. To save money, buy the spices in bulk.
19. Al Seef. Along the charming Dubai Creek, you’ll find a lively open-air shopping arcade. Al Seef spans more than 1.1 mi (1.8 km). Its Heritage Souk offers an endless choice of traditional handicrafts, souvenirs, and jewelry by regional craftsmen. Al Seef is great for enjoying the captivating allure of Old Dubai while shopping, dining, or appreciating the typical Emirati architecture.
20. BurJuman Centre. Although not as famous and shiny as Dubai Mall or the Mall of the Emirates, BurJuman Centre has its unique charm. Located in Bur Dubai, it’s one of the oldest shopping arcades in the city. The mall boasts luxury outlets, international brands, fitness, a VOX cinema, and an array of international cuisine restaurants.
21. Dubai Festival City Mall. This mall is popular for its spectacular light shows. Dubai Festival City Mall features 400+ stores, including international fashion brands, home furnishing stores, electronics outlets, and a variety of dining options. The shopping center is also home to several entertainment venues, including a 12-screen cinema, an indoor theme park, and a large outdoor waterfront area with a musical fountain. Inside the mall, you’ll discover the Sugar Factory. Visit it for some of Dubai’s most Insta-worthy desserts.
22. City Centre Deira. As one of the oldest shopping arcades in Dubai, City Centre Deira has a loyal fanbase. Popular fashion brands, electronics outlets, an extensive food court, and a fitness studio entertain visitors. Many locals and tourists love the mall for its awesome discount shops. Apart from that, City Centre Deira is known for its modern and stylish design. The large central atrium features a stunning domed skylight.

Visit Dubai for its Delectable Treats

Grab a napkin and let’s dive into the most finger-licking dishes that make Dubai worth visiting.

23. Dates. The delicious fruits are a traditional part of Emirati culture. U.A.E. is among the top date producers in the world. 96% of the country’s fruits are grown in Dubai. You’ll find countless offers in supermarkets, cafés, and souks. From fresh dates to fruits filled with gourmet ingredients, you should try dates at least once on your trip to Dubai. Our recommendation is the chocolate-dipped dates, sprinkled with pistachios.
24. Camel products. Camels play a huge part in the Bedouin culture. Apart from work animals, they’re also farmed for their lean meat and healthy milk. You can purchase camel milk in most Dubai supermarkets. Try the flavored one as pure camel milk has a distinctive taste that might not be to your liking. And if you’re feeling adventurous, try the decadent camel milk ice cream, camel meat burgers, and camel milk chocolate.
25. Baklava. You can try baklava all over the Middle East. That shouldn’t stop you from ordering it in Dubai as well. Arabian baklava is smaller, drier, and different in taste from the Turkish one. It’s not as drenched in sugar syrup as other sorts, making it lighter and easier to digest.
26. Margoogat. This iconic dish from Dubai is a meaty, tomato-based stew. In margoogat, lamb or chicken meat joins forces with baby marrow, potatoes, and herbs. The meat simmers slowly in the tomato-based broth until it becomes tender and flavorful. Margoogat is one of the most delicious things that makes Dubai worth visiting.
27. Gahwa. If you’re looking to explore traditional drinks in Dubai, the first beverage you should try is gahwa. It’s basically Arabic coffee and is considered the Emirati’s welcome drink. If you visit a household in the U.A.E., you’ll be greeted with a cup of gahwa. Some hotels also offer the drink for free in their lobbies. Pair it with some dates or baklava for the ultimate seduction.
28. Carob juice. One of the healthiest and most unusual beverages you can sample in Dubai’s cafés and restaurants is carob juice. It not only tastes amazing. Carob juice also boasts a ton of vitamins and minerals, which will make your body feel fantastic in the desert heat.

Go to Dubai for the Incredible Extreme Activities

The extreme activities in the city make Dubai a great place to vacation for any thrill-seeker out there. Learn where to pump your adrenaline in the section below.

29. Helicopter flight. You haven’t truly seen Dubai until you have discovered it from a birds-eye perspective. Take a helicopter flight to marvel at the jaw-dropping Palm Jumeirah, fly over Dubai Canal and Jumeirah Beach, and get a closer look at the record-breakers Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab. To enjoy this unparalleled experience, book your seat here.
30. Diving. Wanna put your body to the ultimate diving test? Deep Dive Dubai has the deepest pool in the world. In the record-breaking facility, you dive into another dimension. The 197-ft. (60 m) deep pool gives you a chance to discover the depth of your diving potential. Whether you like to try scuba diving, snorkeling, or freediving, explore a world full of wonder by booking your dive in advance here.
31. Dune bashing. The favorite adventure of the Emirati is dune bashing. Join a tour, which will take you outside of Dubai. There, you’ll conquer the iconic red dunes of the Lehbab Desert. The exhilarating safari tour also includes riding or feeding a camel, smoking shisha, and enjoying a delectable BBQ. Belly dancers and dervishes will entertain you while you devour the finger-licking dishes. Become a part of this unforgettable feast by booking here.
32. Ziplining. Dubai’s imposing skyline is the perfect décor for ziplining. Dubai XLine offers two locations – one in Downtown and one in Dubai Marina. The line in the Marina is the longest urban zipline in the world, which makes Dubai worth visiting. Hang in tight and “fly” to the other side of the line.
33. Skydiving. The City of Gold is renowned for its extreme air sports, and Skydive Dubai is among the most popular. Their adrenaline-fueled activity involves training, jumping out of a plane, and enjoying the breathtaking views of Dubai. On top of that, you’ll receive photos and a video of the jump to remember this exhilarating experience. If you’re ready to get your heart racing, you can book your once-in-a-lifetime skydiving adventure through this link.

Is Dubai Worth Visiting — Now, You Know the Answer

There you have it – the best 33 reasons to visit Dubai.

Now, you get what makes Dubai worth visiting.

With its unbelievable museums, private beaches, open-air markets, and adrenaline-infused adventures, the Emirati city will steal your heart.

Now, I’m curious:

What do you think is the best reason to visit Dubai?

Tell me in the comments below.