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COLIFE BLOG
Top 10 Must-Visit Attractions for First-Time Visitors to Dubai
Discover Dubai's contrasts: modern skyscrapers, historic neighborhoods, vast malls, traditional bazaars, fine dining, and street food. Our guide covers must-see attractions to truly experience the essence of Dubai.
Dubai is a city of contrasts. Here, cutting-edge technologies don't overshadow local traditions, and the cityscape is harmoniously woven from modern skyscrapers and vibrant historic neighborhoods, enormous shopping malls and traditional bazaars, Michelin-starred fine dining restaurants and traditional Arabian street food stalls.
In such diversity, it's easy to lose your head. Of course, every tourist has their own preferences, and Dubai truly offers something for everyone in terms of entertainment and attractions.
We invite you to explore the shortlist of must-see places that people say you haven't truly visited Dubai unless you've seen them.
1
Burj Khalifa
The tallest building in the world — a unique 828-meter, 163-floor skyscraper — this is the Burj Khalifa, opened in 2010, a "city within a city" and the most popular building in Dubai.
You can enjoy various activities in the tower: observation decks with stunning views of the city and surroundings, one of the world's largest aquariums, luxurious restaurants at the top of the skyscraper, a museum showcasing the building's history, and shopping. Additionally, from the Burj Khalifa, you can enjoy the best view of Dubai's famous evening fountain light show — another must-see for any tourist's bucket list.
2
Palm Jumeirah
One of Dubai's iconic landmarks is the man-made island in the shape of a palm tree. A trip here will be an unforgettable adventure. Be sure to visit Atlantis The Palm hotel with its waterpark and underwater zoo, relax on one of the most beautiful beaches with white sand, take a stroll along the waterfront, and dine at luxurious restaurants overlooking the sunset over the sea.
3
Museum of the Future
The unique architecture of this building has made the museum one of the most recognizable landmarks in Dubai. And besides beautiful photographs against this architectural masterpiece, you will find a multitude of fascinating interactive exhibitions inside, including immersion into virtual reality.
4
Expo City Dubai
Expo City Dubai will surely captivate you for the entire day. It's not just a museum; it's a whole world of innovation and cultural exchange.
Visit the most beautiful and interesting pavilions according to tourists' opinions: Al Wasl Plaza, the pavilions of the UAE and Saudi Arabia, Germany and the UK, Japan, Sweden, and Luxembourg.
Don't miss the Terra exhibition, where you'll learn how to make more sustainable choices and reduce your impact on the environment, and conclude your day at the 55-meter rotating observation deck, Garden in the Sky.
5
Desert Safari
Nothing is more thrilling than a journey through the desert. Set aside time for this adventure during your trip to Dubai. Make sure to enjoy the thrilling dune bashing experience in a jeep or buggy, dune bashing, and camel rides, visit a Bedouin camp, try the local cuisine, and savor authentic Arabian hospitality while witnessing the stunning desert sunset.
6
Dubai Creek and Al Fahidi Historic District
During your first trip to Dubai, it's essential to immerse yourself in the city's history. Begin your journey into local culture and traditions with a stroll along Dubai Creek on a traditional abra (water taxi). Then, head to the historic Al Fahidi District and visit the Dubai Museum, wander through Bastakiya Quarter with its narrow streets and traditional Arabian houses, explore an Arabian market, and dine at a local café serving traditional Arabic cuisine.
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7
Zabeel Park and Dubai Garden Glow
Zabeel Park is one of the largest and most beautiful parks in Dubai, but it's not just that; it's also one of the region's first high-tech green zones. Moreover, the park is home to one of Dubai's newest attractions — the Dubai Frame observation deck.
After enjoying the outdoors in this green oasis, head to Dubai Garden Glow, an amazing amusement and art park with vibrant light installations. It's not just a stunningly beautiful place; its aim is to entertain while educating visitors about important contemporary environmental issues such as global warming and carbon footprint. Thus, all installations in Dubai Garden Glow are made entirely from recycled materials.
8
Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is famous for its stunning skyline, luxury yachts, waterfront restaurants, scenic promenade, and various leisure activities. Be sure to take a walk around the area when you're in Dubai. Also, don't forget to visit Dubai Marina Mall or dive into an adrenaline rush with Skydive Dubai, offering skydiving for a bird's-eye view of the city.
9
Jumeirah Beach
Visiting Dubai and not enjoying its beaches is downright unforgivable. Jumeirah Beach is one of the best places to soak up the sun, sea, and water sports.
Here, you can not only enjoy the crystal-clear waters of the Arabian Gulf but also try various water sports like kayaking, paddleboarding, windsurfing, or water skiing. A stroll along the promenade is a must, offering views of one of Dubai's iconic landmarks — sail-shaped hotel Burj Al Arab. Near the beach, you'll also find the Wild Wadi Water Park and Mercato Mall.
10
Alserkal Avenue
Finally, we recommend visiting the main art center of the UAE located on the site of a former industrial complex. Here, you'll find over 40 art galleries, dance studios, trendy cafes, and other intriguing establishments.
Be sure to explore galleries like Leila Heller Gallery, Gulf Photo Plus, Carbon 12, The Third Line, Carbon 12, and Green Art Gallery; unleash your creativity at a workshop in the communal studio thejamjar; and catch independent films at the arthouse Cinema Akil.
But don't overlook the art district itself with its captivating architecture, street art, and sculptures.
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