Skyline Ambition Meets Creekside Heritage
Dubai is a city and emirate on the Arabian Gulf coast of the United Arab Emirates, known for its futuristic skyline, luxury hotels, shopping, beaches and desert adventures. The Burj Khalifa, opened in 2010, rises to more than 800 metres and is the tallest building in the world. Palm Jumeirah, an island shaped like a palm tree, and the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab are among the best-known landmarks, while the Museum of the Future, opened in 2022, adds a calligraphy-wrapped icon to the skyline.
Old Dubai shows the other side of the city. Along Dubai Creek, wooden abras ferry passengers between Deira and Bur Dubai, past dhows trading goods, and the gold and spice souks open into lively lanes. The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, with its wind-tower houses and courtyard galleries, shows the city's pearl-diving and trading past. Nearby, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah bring cultural depth, making a combined trip across the Emirates rewarding.
Beaches, Dunes and Dining Rooms
Dubai is a destination of variety. Jumeirah Beach and the beaches of the Marina and Palm give a long season of sun and sea, and Dubai Marina and JBR are lined with cafes and waterside promenades. The Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping centres, includes an aquarium and an indoor ice rink, while the Dubai Fountain performs in the evening. Dubai Frame, Global Village and the Dubai Miracle Garden are popular with families, and Expo City carries forward the legacy of Expo 2020.
In the desert, dune drives, camel rides, hot air balloons and star-lit camps give a taste of Bedouin hospitality. Food is equally varied, with chefs and restaurants from around the world alongside Emirati dishes such as machboos, harees and luqaimat, sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup, and cardamom-scented Arabic coffee. A hotel group can use Dubai's range, from beach resorts to design hotels in the city centre, to attract family, couple and business-and-leisure travellers.
Read the full Dubai guide on Visit Travel Group, or see Dubai.co.uk on Visit Travel Group.