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Spiked by the Burj Khalifa, surrounded by undulating deserts and glimmering with commerce and energy on the edge of the Persian Gulf, Dubai is simply not to be missed. tourHQ has plenty of tour guides in Dubai to experience the architecture of Dubai.

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Dubai Tour Guides

Vishal Saluja

Hello Everyone, Welcome to our Amazing, Magical and Wonderful city. City where people ...

Myself , Jose' Gomez! I was not born in Dubai but Dubai is my home .I have been living in this city ...

Sachin Sharma

I am a tourism passionate and have more than 10 years experience in the field of travel and ...

Shajahan Abdul azeez

The city of Dubai, a sparkling gem in the desert, is host to more than 10 million visitors a year. ...

Malgorzata Maria Rdzanowska

Living nearly 25 years in Dubai I have had already great knowledge about the city, its history, and ...

Anne-Sophie Lozano Kramer

 l do everything  with a passion for delivering the highest levels of quality and service ...

Emad Mohamed

I was born under the sun and the history of ancient Egypt; I studied Egyptology at Sohag ...

Travel with me, let me guide you! Welcome to my profile. My name is Erika. I am native ...

Rijad Ahmad

I am a passionate Tourist Guide living in Dubai for around 6 years and qualified to guide ...

Muhammad Anwar Shah

I am an English-speaking guide in Dubai offering custom, authentic and private tours of Dubai and ...

Ute Koestle

I am from Germany, but I have been living in Dubai for last 23 years and also working in ...

Navas Saidu Mohammed

Hello my fellow travelers, welcome to my tourHQ page!I am an Authorised Tour Guide in Dubai since ...

Abubakker Sideq

Hello everyone,I'm Abubakker Sideq, a proud resident of Dubai for the past 16 years. This vibrant ...

-MBA Marketing from Preston University-A professional tour guide course from Department of Tourism ...

Melwyn Ferrao

Hello! I’m Melwyn your Host with a big admiration for my city and passionate about showing it to ...

Zakaria Kabbaj

As a native tour guide i am fluent in Arabic, English, and French.If you are coming to ...

Everything in Dubai promises to be the biggest and the best. The city-state is a one of a kind wonderland where gravity-challenging structures reach to the skies and ambitious mega projects displace seas to shine in the Dubai sun. Dubai’s ostentatiousness is the magnet that draws tourists in throngs from near and far. Lavish malls that are impossible to traverse in a day call out to shoppers to cash in on scandalously fantastic retail deals at the much-awaited Annual Dubai Shopping Festival. Bargain hunters for gold come away satisfied with the price and quality they desire at the Gold Souk. For the adrenalin rush, a Dune bashing tour, riding out steep dunes with a 4-wheel drive is just the thing to do. Remember to ask your Dubai Tour Guide for the complete package, with the graceful moves of a belly dancer providing entertainment at a Middle Eastern feast laid out in the desert. Dubai is undoubtedly the most liberal of the Emirates; waterparks, unparalleled hotels, pubs and restaurants offering an enviable assortment of international cuisines along the walk at JBR are testimony to the successful venture of making a Dubai a truly world class city.

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Dubai Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Dubai. We've got 230 adventures going to Dubai, starting from just one day in length, and the longest tour is 59 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the largest number of tour departures.

230 Dubai tour packages with 239 reviews

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing
• Christmas & New Year

Dubai Deluxe Holidays 5 Nights 6 Days

Highly recommended. My friends & i took the JTR Tour all inclusive of hotel, transportation & activities - Dubai Holidays Deluxe 5N/6D Oct 2-6, 2023 and had a blast. We stayed at First Central Hotel Suites in Dubai. The hotel was quite a distance to downtown but was not a problem since we had pick up and drop off services. We had a variety of activities that gave us a good feel of the culture, wonders, and glitters of Dubai. We also had the option of adding extra days/activities that is not in the original IT for a nominal fee. Thanks to Tour Radar and JTR Holidays for their great service.

The UAE Complete - Escorted Tour in 4* Hotels – Full Board Plan

I had an excellent experience. I give your company 5 stars. I received prompt services, food was yummy, hotels were comfortable and clean. The price was affordable and reasonable. Our tour guide was knowledgeable, patient and friendly. I will recommend your company to others. Thank you

Wonderful Dubai - 5 days

The UAE Essentials - Escorted Tour in 4 Stars Hotels – Full Board Plan

One of the precious travel memory in the travel life. Burj-Khalifa is really a wonder to the world. Desert safari could be more energetic. I also took a picture with the falcon on my shoulder. My brother recommended this package and guys I loved it.Good service, delicious food and good value of money.

Ultimate Dubai City Package in 3, 4 or 5* Hotels

It’s a really nice tour no complain at all Everything was well done according to itenary pick up and drop off from airport was excellent I will definitely recommend Gryaline

Dazzling Dubai

A wonderful trip to sample the magnificence that is Dubai. Accommodations were great and way above expectations-very clean,spacious and the included breakfast was wonderful. Included and optional tours were spot on to provide a concise yet pleasurable voyage into the culture. Cannot speak highly enough of this experience!!

Dubai Economy Holiday Package 05 Nights 06 Days

I had a great time; I booked this last minute, the company communicated with me very well! I felt safe because they talked with me daily via WhatsApp. They were flexible with the excursion dates. They sent drivers and their information everytime they ordered one. I did this trip solo; just communicate with the tour operators and everything will be fine, they answer immediately and keep in contact. 10/10

Amazing Abu Dhabi and Dubai

We were met at the airport by the local representative company, Arabian Adventures, and we’re fast tracked through immigration and quickly taken to our hotel. The desert tour was exceptional, racing over dunes, watching the setting sun, camel riding and a wonderful BBQ under the stars. The guides on the city tour of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and East Coast were very knowledgeable. There was a perfect balance of free time and tours. The Howard Johnson was very clean, offered buffet breakfast and was a great location close to the old cultural centres, souks and public transit

Dubai Premium Holidays 5 Nights 6 Days

Overall I was very happy with our experience. TR stayed in communication regularly and provided details every step of the way. Only one small hiccup the last morning. Our driver to the airport was lost and arrived 45 minutes late.we took a cab to the airport. TR reimbursed us. I don't feel it was TR fault. We will definitely us TR again

Customized Private Dubai & Abu Dhabi Vacation with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Experience UAE - Escorted Tour in 4 or 5* Hotels

Really good experience, the service from the tour guide, the drivers and online support was great! Totally recommended if you have just a few days to enjoy the country :)

09-Day Dubai Family Explorer tour

DUBAI – Skyscrapers Desert Abu Dhabi with Oman Highlights

Tailor-Made Private Dubai with Desert Resort & Abu Dhabi, Daily Departure

Ferrari World Adventure 5 Days/ 4 Nights

Dubai tour was generally amazing! Our guide could speak in both English and French. We enjoyed every moment of it and look forward to booking again next year with Across Africa Tours and Travel.

What people love about Dubai Tours

Highly recommended. My friends & i took the JTR Tour all inclusive of hotel, transportation & activities - Dubai Holidays Deluxe 5N/6D Oct 2-6, 2023 and had a blast. We stayed at First Central Hotel Suites in Dubai. The hotel was quite a distance to downtown but was not a problem since we had pick up and drop off services. We had a variety of activities that gave us a good feel of the culture, wonders, and glitters of Dubai. We also had the option of adding extra days/activities that is not in the original IT for a nominal fee. Thanks to Tour Radar and JTR Holidays for their great service.

Tour bus audio system wasn't working properly so couldn't hear what tour guide was talking about.

The guides and drivers were all excellent, 5-star rating. The only improvement would be to: - educate about basic pricing for most purchased items (Gold was explained, but e.g. a Thawb outfit price should be closer to 100 Dirham and not over 200 Dirham - give some hints what good prices for customers are). - hence the routing would make more sense in the other direction (for shopping less expensive first instead of most expensive). But I will not deduct any stars over that.

Tours starting from Dubai

• for 7 Days (65)
• for 2 Weeks (20)
• for 10 Days (19)
• for 3 Days (6)
• to Asia (106)
• to United Arab Emirates (91)

• United Arab Emirates (UAE) ›

Dubai Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

Discover things to do and plan a trip to dubai, united arab emirates (uae) with a local guide.

View all 7 reviews

Popular Dubai Tour Guides

I'm Eman, I have a passion to present my unique experience in my Country. A local ( Emirati) tour guide I grew up and live in Abu Dhabi. Educated with a Bachelor's degree in Tourism and Cultural Communications. I started tour guiding as a passion that lets you feel the Emirati difference experience through local guidance, honesty, and a clear understanding of the unique Emirati heritage, life, and local culture. However, I always like to share special details about the local lifestyle, culture, and specific traditions that make your visit feel unique. It gives me great pleasure to share stories with people and see their smiling faces. Remember I am guiding as a passion and happy to show you the flavor of my country. Feel free to send for me a massage for more information and asking questions                                                                                                                                  

Welcome to an adventure of a lifetime! My name is Ibrahim and I'm your enthusiastic tour guide, here to whisk you away on an unforgettable journey through captivating Dubai and hidden gems across the city. With a passion for exploration and a knack for storytelling, I specialize in crafting immersive experiences that delve deep into the heart and soul of each tour. Whether you crave the bustling energy of vibrant city, or the rich tapestry of cultural heritage, I'll curate the perfect itinerary to satisfy your wanderlust. As your trusted guide, I'll lead you off the beaten path to uncover hidden treasures, share fascinating insights into local traditions and customs, and ensure every moment of your adventure is filled with excitement, discovery, and unforgettable memories. From the iconic landmarks to the hidden gems, let's embark on a journey of discovery together. Get ready to explore, experience, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Your next great adventure awaits!                                                                                                                                  

Syed ali H.

Energetic and resourceful tour guide with several years of experience accompanying clients on trips and to various locations in different parts of united arab emirates. adept at performing research in an effort to make optimal travel plans. experienced in organizing itineraries according to time frame, weather and events. dedicated to providing clients with the best customer service and travel experience possible.                                                                                                                                  .

I am a true believer in the Rule of Three - I live between Dubai, Mumbai and Washington DC, speak three languages and have 3 kids. I graduated from Connecticut College and have a Masters Degree from New York University. I am a licensed Dubai tour guide, travel blogger, art aficionado, foodie and curious to check out all things new in my city. I was awarded the best guide of Dubai by Dubai Culture Authority in 2022. In the recent years, I have given private tours to Sheryl Sandberg, NBA Teams, Harvard students, NYU professors and team members from Pfizer and Hilti. I am looking forward to meeting you in Dubai and showing you why I love this city so much! I am able to provide walking tour, pick up and drop off services with an SUV Car and a driver, city tours, Dubai Tours and Abu Dhabi tours.                                                                                                                                  

New dubai tour guides.

Hello My name is Ashraf and i am a tour guide in the United Arab Emirates since 2001 my team members are professional guides and drivers . All of us are based in the United Arab Emirates more than 20 years . We cover all tours in Abu-Dhabi, Dubai,Al Ain,Sharjah,Fujeirah and Ras Al Khaimah Emirates Our tour guides team speak Arabic, English, French, Italian, Spanish and Portuguese. We are very professional in culture, tradition, heritage and religion according to our studies and background in the Arab countries. - Our Drivers team speak English only . Feel free to send us messages if you have any questions.                                                                                                                                  

If you want possessions, possess memories, not materials. Passionate and knowledgeable Tour Guide with 10+ years of experience conducting private and group tours of Dubai and Abu dhabi . Skilled in delivering excellent customer service, engaging diverse audiences, and providing favorable and customized experiences for all visitors and guests.                                                                                                                                  

Mudassar B.

Meet mudassar, your enthusiastic dubai tour guide and a seasoned explorer of the city's wonders. as a longtime resident of dubai, i bring a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for unveiling the diverse facets of this extraordinary city. fluent in english, german, hindi, and urdu, i pride myself on providing a seamless and personalized experience for visitors from around the world. my multilingual skills open the door to a more inclusive and engaging exploration of dubai's rich culture and attractions.                                                                                                                                  .

Passionate about Guiding Providing best level of Customer service                                                                                                                                  

Popular dubai private tours.

DXB Modern and Historical Tour

Discover the amazing city of dubai with me as a local guide who is always excited and passionate about sharing my knowledge and experience about uae. dubai is city of skyscrapers, diverse culture and fascinating rich history we'll explore old historic and cultural side of dubai after exploring the old side move on to modern and unique area of dubai which is palm jumeirah burj al arab dubai marina, jbr and much more book me as your guide and go with your guide.

Dubai desert safari and iconic tour

This is sarfaraz here, in this tour you can explore some unique and dubai is a place where tradition and heritage can be found, together we will explore the world's largest gold market , spice souk , al fahidi district, jumeirah mosque, burj al arab view, madinat jumeirah and and modern city. after shiny and glory, we will go for nature and the desert since the exploration of dubai is uncompleted and joyless without experiencing the thrill, adventure, and unforgettable drive on the sand.

Dubai City Tour (6 hours)

Traditional dubai tour modern dubai: za'abeel palace, dubai marina, la pointe palm jumeirah (opposite atlantis), souk madinat jumeirah traditional dubai: al fahidi historical neighborhood, coffee museum, abra boar crossing the dubai creek, spices market, gold souk end of the trip.

Dubai Old and modern Private City Tour

The modernisation of dubai has leaped in a short time keeping intact their own cultural heritage. this tour brings you to have an explicit look of this variance of old and new dubai. the itinery is as below. (attention) tour can be customized upon your requirement, new dubai private tours.

private Fujeirah tour with Guide and Driver ( Multiple Languages available )

Rive from dubai to the east coast of the country with a professional guide who will explain to you about every place you visit in fujeirah emirate and discover many things on the way between the emirates . - walk through the traditional friday market. - visit fujeirah grand mosque - take pictures at fujeirah fort - visit fujeirah museum - stop for lunch break.

Die arabische Kultur hinter den Kulissen

Eine tour durch die arabische kultur hinter den kulissen dubais bietet eine faszinierende mischung aus tradition und moderne an. von den glitzernden wolkenkratzern in downtown bis zu den historischen vierteln von al fahidi durchqueren die besucher eine dynamische landschaft, die von einer reichen erbschaft geprägt ist. bei der erkundung der versteckten gassen der souks bietet diese tour einen wunderschönen einblick in die lebendige arabische kultur, die mitten der modernen wunder dubais liegt..

Arabic Culture behind the Scenes

Embarking on a tour of arabic culture behind the scenes in dubai unveils a captivating blend of tradition and modernity. from the gleaming skyscrapers of downtown to the historic neighborhoods of al fahidi, visitors traverse a dynamic landscape steeped in heritage. exploring the hidden alleyways of the souks, this tour offers a captivating glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of arabic culture thriving amidst the modern marvels of dubai..

Old Dubai Walking Tour with Local Snacks

Discover what life in old dubai was like during the mid-19th century at al fahidi historical neighbourhood. al seef walks right at the edge of dubai creek. experience a traditional ride for crossing the dubai creek (canal). visit dubai gold and spice a perfect blend of old and ultra-modern jewellery..

Popular Dubai Private Cars

Dubai Layover Tour-Dubai Highlights

Explore the city like a local from the old part of dubai to the modern part of it with the guide and take advantage of spare waiting time at dubai airport with this private city tour. you can customize the tour as per your time of next flight. rather than simply counting down the hours to your next flight, explore the city with a professional local guide bottled water airport pickup and drop-off hotel pickup and drop-off transport by air-conditioned vehicle deira old souk abra station.

Dubai halfday city tour (4 hours)

Dubai halfday city tour will cover old and new dubai along with the souqs and beaches and attractions like burj al arab, the palm jumeirah, atlantis hotel etc.

private Abu Dhabi 10 hours tour with luxury GMC and professional driver from Dubai

Drive from dubai to abu dhabi city with a luxury gmc car and a professional driver who will take you to the most important places in the city and explain to you the places that you are visiting. - visit the grand mosque - photo stop at emirates palace hotel from outside - walk through the heritage village - stop for lunch break - drive on corniche road - take pictures at ferrari world from outside - choose the places you want to visit in abu dhabi upon your request.

"Dubai City Tour: A 6-Hour Excursion"

Welcome to dubai, where the desert meets the sky in a symphony of modernity and tradition. as you embark on this guided tour, get ready to uncover the secrets and marvels of one of the world's most dynamic cities. from the shimmering waters of the dubai marina to the ancient alleyways of the al fahidi historical neighborhood, each stop on our tour promises a new adventure and a deeper understanding of dubai's rich heritage. – let the journey begin.

Dubai Tour Reviews

Going around Dubai

“ Global village ”

She’s a very nice person, I enjoy every moment of the tour she gave me. She knows a lot and always answer any questions I had in a respectful, I recommend her a lot .

visit Old Dubai in 4th of October

“ Informative visit, very nice guide ”

Our tour through Dubai and its heritage and traditions was very niceley done. We found out a lot about the city we would not have found out otherwise. Eman was creative and fun and we got a lot of insight. She knows the history as well as the new development, the culinary culture and many things more. We enjoyed shopping at the souks. She helped us with quite some questions. Thanks!

layover in Dubai

“ Hessa is a perfect guide ”

Hessa was extremely helpful and informative. She knows her home of Dubai very well and is very learned regarding anything I could ask of her. She was confident to take me to anything of interest to me, a great help in the gold, spice and textile souks, walking in the old town and eating Emirati cuisine.

Dubai Private Tour Guide

The best tours and activities.

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Read reviews and chat with the best local tour guides in dubai. get a free itinerary and plan your private tour today..

Transportation & Transfers

Tour dubai by car or van, get an airport transfer, or hire a private guide / driver. see reviews and all options..

Book a customizable Dubai Private Tour

Browse dubai tour itineraries by our local professionals and book your favorite dubai tour., related dubai tour guide pages.

WALKS OF DUBAI

Book your next adventure, best tour package, dubai aladdin tour, dubai layover tour, desert safari adventure, wonders of dubai, dubai city tour, abu dhabi city tour, miracle garden/global village, dhow cruise dinner, activities to do, hot air balloon, boat cruise, quad biking, your dream getaway & holiday package.

Escape to the extraordinary with our exclusive Dubai Dream Getaway Package! Immerse yourself in the opulence and excitement of the city where luxury meets adventure with the best tour company in Dubai.

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Dubai is a stirring alchemy of profound traditions and ambitious futuristic vision wrapped into starkly evocative desert splendor.

Best Time to Visit

Best things to do, attractions, must-see attractions.

Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab's graceful silhouette – meant to evoke the sail of a dhow (a traditional wooden cargo vessel) – is to Dubai what the Eiffel Tower is to…

Burj Khalifa

Downtown Dubai

The Burj Khalifa is a stunning feat of architecture and engineering, with two observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors and a restaurant-bar on the…

Madinat Jumeirah

One of Dubai’s most attractive developments, Madinat Jumeirah is a contemporary interpretation of a traditional Arab village, complete with a souq (market…

All that glitters is gold (and occasionally silver) along this covered arcade where dozens of shops overflow with every kind of jewelry imaginable, from…

This long, pristine stretch of white sand, a little way north of Jumeirah Public Beach, is a major draw for sporty types, with a range of activities on…

IMG Worlds of Adventure

Housed in an air-conditioned hangar the size of 28 football fields, IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world’s largest indoor theme park. The US$1 billion…

Dubai Museum

The city's main historical museum charts Dubai's turbo-evolution from fishing and pearling village to global centre of commerce, finance and tourism. It…

Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

Anyone keen on delving deeper into Emirati culture and history should take advantage of the activities, Emirati meals and tours offered through this…

Top picks from our travel experts

25 best things to do in dubai.

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

On the outskirts of Sharjah, the 225 sq km Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve accounts for 5% of the Emirate of Dubai's total land. The reserve was…

Mushrif National Park

One of the oldest parks in Dubai, dating from 1974, Mushrif covers more than 5 sq km of natural ghaf forest, which is a haven for birds, including owls,…

With around 1300 shops, this isn't merely the world's largest shopping mall – it’s a small city, with a giant ice rink and aquarium, a dinosaur skeleton,…

Dubai Fountain

This dancing fountain is spectacularly set in the middle of a giant lake against the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa. Water undulates as…

In the early 1900s this historical area was Dubai's trading hub, during a period when the pearl diving industry was being developed. Stretching some 1.8km…

Arabian Adventures

This longstanding tour company has an excellent reputation and offers a wide range of tours, including sundowner tours, which include 4WD drives,…

Steps from the Deira Old Souk abra station, the sound of Arabic chatter bounces around the lanes of this small covered market as vendors work hard to…

Museum of Illusions

Opened in September 2018, this museum is fast becoming a favourite for families and Instagram fans, with several of the 'illusions' frankly looking a lot…

White Dubai

The Dubai spawn of the Beirut original did not need long to lure local socialites with high-energy rooftop parties under the stars. International…

Etihad Museum

Opened in 2017, this striking modern museum engagingly chronicles the birth of the UAE in 1971, spurred by the discovery of oil in the 1950s and the…

Souk Al Bahar

Translated as 'market of the sailor', Souk Al Bahar is a small arabesque-style mall next to the Dubai Mall that sells mostly tourist-geared items. It's…

Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa

It may only be 65km southeast of Dubai, but Al Maha feels like an entirely different universe. Gone are the skyscrapers, traffic and go-go attitude. At…

Dubai Frame

Opened in January 2018, this 150m rectangular 'picture frame' sits in Zabeel Park, right between historic and modern Dubai, and provides grand views of…

Perfume House

This waterfront museum is part of the Al Shindagha Museum restoration project and is the former home of a Dubai sheikha who loved all things perfume. The…

Jumeirah Mosque

Snowy white and intricately detailed, Jumeirah is Dubai's most beautiful mosque and one of only a handful in the UAE that are open to non-Muslims – one…

Dubai Butterfly Garden

Some 15,000 butterflies flutter around these beautifully styled indoor domed gardens. Visitors love to pose with them as they land on shoulders and…

Al Qudra Lake

One for the nature lovers, this series of man-made lakes is in the middle of the Saih Al Salam desert on Dubai’s southern outskirts. Swap skyscrapers for…

Dubai Design District

Creative folks have a new HQ in Dubai. The fresh-off-the-drawing board Dubai Design District (d3) has drawn both regional and international talent and…

Dubai Miracle Garden

Covering some 2000 sq metres and touted as the largest natural flower garden in the world, there’s a sense of Alice in Wonderland–esque surrealism when…

Top free things to do in Dubai: the City of Gold for next to nothing

XVA Gallery

Tucked into the Al Fahidi Historic District since 2003, XVA has a knack for ferreting out top-notch up-and-comers from around the Middle East and India…

Sheikh Zayed Bridge Waterfall

This illuminated and motion-operated waterfall cascades down both sides of Sheikh Zayed Bridge, stopping only for passing vessels. It's an impressive…

Coffee Museum

This cute private museum in a historic Emirati home offers an aromatic bean-based journey around the world and back in time. Learn about the importance of…

Cartoon Art Gallery

This bi-level space is the first gallery in the Middle East dedicated to cartoon and animation art from across the entire spectrum of media, from paint to…

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Incongruously framed by highways, this surprising sanctuary on Dubai Creek is an important stopover for migratory waterbirds on the east Africa–west Asian…

Alserkal Avenue

Edgy contemporary art from the Middle East and beyond has found a home in Dubai thanks to the vision of Abdelmonem Bin Eisa Alserkal. The local developer…

Al Fahidi Historic District

Traffic fades to a quiet hum in the labyrinthine lanes of this nicely restored heritage area formerly known as the Bastakiya Quarter. Its narrow walking…

Coin Museum

This is a highly specialised museum which will appeal to anyone with an interest in rare and historic coins. Located near the Diwan Mosque in the Al…

Dubai Police Museum

You can't miss this place, mostly thanks to the plethora of super-car police vehicles parked outside. Part of Dubai Police Academy, this small and…

Movies Under the Stars

Every Sunday night during the cooler months, clued-in cinephiles invade the rooftop of the Pyramids Building, next to the Wafi Mall, to drop into a giant…

Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili

In 1923 this beautifully restored home tucked into the narrow lanes on the edge of the Spice Souq became the home of Saudi-born Mubarak Bin Al Oqaili …

Majlis Gallery

Dubai's oldest fine-art gallery was founded in 1989 by British expat Alison Collins and presents mainly paintings and sculpture by international artists…

Planning Tools

Expert guidance to help you plan your trip.

Best Neighborhoods

Dubai is a sprawling city, so it pays to plan your visit wisely. Instead of packing in too many sights, get to know the city's neighborhoods one at a time.

You’ll find everything from mosques and museums to mountain bike trails and ziplines within day-trip distance of Dubai. Here are the best spots to visit.

Transportation

Getting around Dubai requires some form of transport, whether that's taking a taxi, using rideshare apps, hopping on public transport or driving yourself.

Free Things to Do

Dubai might be known as the City of Gold, but that doesn't mean it has to cost the earth to visit. Here are the best things to do in Dubai for free.

Traveling with Kids

While Dubai might have a reputation as being a playground for the rich, this family-friendly city should be known as a playground for the little ones, too.

As one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world, the richness of Dubai’s diversity truly shines through in its contemporary shopping scene.

Latest stories from Dubai

Tips & Advice

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Dubai is full of contrasts. There's the glittering skyline of skyscrapers so tall they defy imagination. There is the modern collection of stores and eateries, offering every option a traveler could want. And then there are the luxurious hotels, ready to welcome even the most discerning traveler in style and excess. Then there's the desert with its rolling hills of sand stamped with the footprints of Arabian oryx and gazelles; the souks with their labyrinth of stalls, bins overflowing with a rainbow of spices; and the traditional abra boats ferrying riders across the Dubai Creek.

“Dubai is the ideal destination for tourists, and there are a number of reasons why,” Farida Ahmed, a guide and owner of Frying Pan Adventures , told Travel + Leisure . “It is safe, whether you are traveling solo or as a family. That, for me, is one of the most pivotal points on which tourism rests."

The city, one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has sprouted up from its desert port beginnings to become a sprawling metropolis full of vibrant neighborhoods, record-setting buildings, and over-the-top shopping centers all in the last several decades. "There is something for everyone and everyone's pocket — if you’re looking for budget travel you can absolutely do it in Dubai," said Ahmed.

Today, Dubai can be fast and slow at the same time — a place to grab an avocado toast and relax on the beach, a place to appreciate a desert conservation reserve, and a place to shop 'til you drop, all in the same day. It's these contrasts that make Dubai one of the most dynamic and interesting cities in the world.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Armani hotel dubai.

This luxurious hotel is located in one of the most famous buildings in Dubai and the world: the Burj Khalifa. Armani Hotel Dubai takes up the first eight floors as well as the 38th and 39th floors of the world's tallest tower, offering incredible views of the city and the Arabian Gulf below. Rooms are designed by the hotel's namesake, Giorgio Armani, and feature muted colors that will relax any guest after a long day of shopping at nearby The Dubai Mall.

Burj Al Arab

If the Burj Khalifa is the most recognizable building in Dubai, the Burj Al Arab is a close second. Inside this iconic sail-shaped building floating in the middle of The Gulf is one of the most stunning hotels in the city. Each colorful room comes with Hermes amenities and butler service as well as access to the hotel's private beach.

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa

Set against rolling sand dunes and roaming oryx, Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa offers guests an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city with 42 individual suites all with their own private pools overlooking unobstructed views of the pristine desert. During your stay, book a dune drive to get your heart pumping or go on a guided nature walk in the desert. In the morning, sit down to breakfast on the veranda and keep your eyes peeled for a few gazelles popping by to say hello over coffee.

Queen Elizabeth 2

This unique property was once a working cruise ship that has been converted into a hotel , permanently docked in Dubai. The 13-deck ship features 447 refurbished hotel rooms and suites — including the Royal Suite with a large wood-lined private deck — restaurants, a spa, and a theater. History buffs can tour the ship's bridge and see what the cabins looked like in the 1960s before settling in for a leisurely afternoon tea complete with finger sandwiches, traditional cakes, and warm scones with clotted cream.

XVA Art Hotel

XVA Art Hotel is a boutique hotel that feels like stepping back in time with its romantic shaded courtyards, dark wood, and rich textiles. The hotel, which was built in what used to be a home in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, has 15 individually designed rooms all located around three courtyards. And don't miss a chance to walk through the hotel's art gallery, which features contemporary art from both established and emerging artists.

Frying Pan Adventures

One of the best ways to experience a place is through its food and these food tours offer to paint visitors a culinary map of Dubai, which Ahmed said has “now established itself as one of the culinary meccas of the world.” Try sweet milky tea in the back alleys of a souk, meat and rice pilaf , stuffed falafels, or learn about the custom of making Arabic coffee while also learning about the history of the city with one of the many female guides. 

Global Village

Dubai's Global Village is unlike anything else, showcasing more than 70 cultures at different country pavilions where visitors can shop, eat, and more. Bring a camera and capture a cool photo "for the 'gram" at one of the "selfie spots" or catch one of the many shows.

Skiing in the desert is possible at Ski Dubai where an indoor slope in the Mall of the Emirates allows ski and snowboard enthusiasts to clip or strap in and hone their skills. Playing in the snow more your thing? Try the twin-track bobsled experience or take some time to hang out with the resident gentoo and king penguins.

Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest tower in the world and the view from the top is rightfully spectacular. Take in Dubai's many neighborhoods with this bird's eye view from the 125th floor or book a spot on the world's highest observation deck with an outdoor terrace on the 148th floor. The Burj Khalifa VIP experience includes access to the world’s highest lounge on the 154th floor. 

Ahmed recommended checking the weather forecast before you book a trip up the Burj Khalifa, noting that “if it's not a clear day you are not going to be seeing anything but haze.” For your best chance of a clear view, she noted that “the sky tends to be clearer before sunset.”

Royal Shaheen

Learn all about falconry from a team of professional falconers on a tour with Royal Shaheen — and get the chance to handle some of the magnificent animals yourself. These tours are interactive and family-friendly, and allow guests to learn both traditional and modern falconry training techniques.

The Dubai Mall holds the Guinness World Record for the largest shopping center in the world with more than 1,200 retail outlets, including two major department stores: Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale's. It also has more than 200 food and beverage outlets. Basically, it's so big you could easily get lost for days. The mall even developed its own app with turn-by-turn navigation to help shoppers reach (and return from) their destination. Beyond shopping, the mall has an aquarium and an Olympic-sized ice rink. The vibe and decor change depending on which part of the mall you're in, so plan to spend some time exploring. An added bonus: it's air-conditioned.

Mall of the Emirates

The Mall of the Emirates is slightly smaller than the Dubai Mall, but still features more than 630 brands and more than 100 places to grab a bite. Beyond the stores themselves, visitors will find the city's indoor ski slope and a bowling alley. (If your phone dies while you're shopping, you can borrow a portable charger for free.)

The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence

This shopping destination stretches along more than one mile of beachfront and features both international designers and fun pop-up markets. Check out Sauce for beachy and boho-inspired dresses and cool rattan bags before grabbing a bite at one of the restaurants overlooking the gulf.

Textile and Gold Souks

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Dubai may be known for its modern skyscrapers, but there's another side to the city where traditional souks sell everything from souvenirs to beautiful scarves. Choose from towering racks of fabric at the Textile Souk in the historic Bur Dubai neighborhood or hop across the Dubai Creek to browse endless rows of jewelry stores selling gold bangles and sparkling gems in the Gold Souk . And remember: haggling is all part of the fun.

Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant

Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant is part museum and part eatery. The restaurant, which boasts a covered dining courtyard with a tree, has live music, and fresh-made bread, and the staff is dressed in traditional robes. “Do not leave the city without trying Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant," said Ahmed. "It is one of the few restaurants in Old Dubai that's been recognized. The food is great and I love the decor.” The restaurant has earned the Michelin's Bib Gourmand designation.

Al Farooj Al Shami Restaurant

The Syrian fare served at Al Farooj Al Shami is second to none. Grilled meats, fresh-made sauces, and a mouth-watering list of hot appetizers make this local spot one of Ahmed’s must-visits.

Comptoir 102

You'd be forgiven for thinking you were in California or Tulum when you settled into the shaded courtyard of Comptoir 102 . Order an avocado crostini, halloumi salad, or gluten-free buckwheat pancakes, and recharge with a chai latte made with homemade almond milk. After you're done eating at this organic cafe, pop over to the attached concept store where you'll find boho dresses, unique glassware, jewelry, and more.

Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams

Dinner at Al Hadheerah is more than just a meal, it's an experience. Ten live cooking stations delight guests as they feast under the stars in the middle of the desert, offering classic dishes like shawarma and lamb ouzi cooked underground as well as salads like hummus and tabbouleh. And don't forget dessert where you can sample favorites like kunafa and baklava. Reservations are recommended.

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter when the year-round hot weather starts to cool. In general, temperatures start to dip in October and it remains only moderately hot through May. While the hot season is from June to September, it's worth noting that air conditioning is plentiful across Dubai.

“The really amazing months for me are November to February,” said Ahmed, who noted that when winter arrives in Dubai, “we literally crawl out of our hibernation phase and it's all about spending time at the beach and desert BBQs.”

Winter is also when the Dubai Shopping Festival takes place. It's a December and January event that is known for its great deals, live entertainment, and raffles.

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The best way to get into Dubai is by plane. Thousands of flights arrive at Dubai International Airport (DXB) each week, making it one of the busiest airports in the world. It is located in the northern part of the city, making it the best option for travelers who will be staying and playing on the northern side of Dubai.

The newer Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), also known as Dubai World Central, started welcoming travelers in 2013 and is still under construction. The airport provides access to the growing southern end of the city. When it is completed, it will be the world’s largest airport.

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This area is a collection of neighborhoods around Dubai Creek (Khor Dubai) , including Deira and the Al Fahidi historical neighborhood . A stroll through this area — lined with low-profile gypsum, sand, and coral buildings — will give visitors a small taste of what Dubai was like before the modern construction boom. Spend some time exploring the area's souks or hop on an abra for a boat ride along the creek, which used to be the entry to the pearl diving port.

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Jumeirah Beach Residences and Dubai Marina

These neighborhoods, which sit next to each other, form one of the best places to go for a waterfront stroll. Grab a bite to eat with a view of the gulf in Jumeirah Beach Residences before getting ice cream and walking over to the marina to watch the sunset on the water, surrounded by towering modern skyscrapers.

Downtown Dubai

This is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in the city, home to the Dubai Mall, the Burj Khalifa, and the Dubai Fountain , which puts on a fantastic show every 30 minutes each night. Shop 'til you drop, head up to the top of the tallest tower in the world, or grab a seat at one of the many restaurants surrounding the fountain for dinner and a show.

Palm Jumeirah

This palm-shaped island is man-made and dotted with luxury hotels and beach clubs. Kids will love the over-the-top waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm , while adults will enjoy whiling away the day at one of the many pool decks. For a bird's eye view of the island itself, try skydiving — just remember to stop screaming long enough to take it all in.

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Taxis are the default way to get around Dubai, but if you want to really explore the city and the neighboring emirates, Ahmed recommended renting a car. “It will make your life easier plus it will open up the possibility for you to explore the other emirates in the UAE. If time is of the essence, get yourself a car,” she said.

She noted that the metro is great if you’re staying in and traveling around Old Dubai, but if you want to explore New Dubai or go further afield, taxi hires and car rentals are the easiest way to get around.

Taxis: Dubai has an extensive network of taxis that bring travelers throughout the city. It's easy to hail a taxi at popular attractions like the malls and the beach. For women who feel more comfortable with a female driver, the city even has " Ladies and Families " taxis, which are always driven by women. Those looking to schedule a taxi ride can use apps like Uber and Careem, which operate throughout the city.

Trains: The Dubai Metro is cooler than your average subway, featuring automated and sleek cars, WiFi, and even separate cars that women and children can use. (The Red Line even holds the Guinness World Record for the longest driverless metro line at more than 32 miles long.) There are nearly 30 metro stations and a good amount of the track is outdoors, passing by iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and making it a great way to see the city and get from Point A to B. Passengers can purchase single, return, or day-pass tickets — or get a cashless smart card called Nol.

Buses: Dubai has more than 1,500 buses that cover a hefty majority of the city's urban areas.

Abra : Travelers can ride these traditional wooden boats between the Bur Dubai area and the Deira area where Dubai's Gold Souk, Textile Souk, and Spice Souk are located.

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Brigitte – Netherlands

The tour was fantastic. Especially the mosque was the big highlighter of the tour.Our tourguide Ashraf did a great job.

Dubai is like nowhere else on the planet and is a fascinating place to visit. Often claimed to be the world’s fastest-growing city, over the past four decades it has metamorphosed from a small Gulf trading centre to become one of the world’s most glamorous, spectacular and futuristic urban destinations, fuelled by a heady cocktail of petrodollars, visionary commercial acumen and naked ambition. Visit Dubai for a week or just a short stopover, and you’ll be blown away by the clash of cultures, extreme luxury and world famous architecture. Find out what this unique city has to offer with the best travel guide to Dubai.

Things to see in Dubai

Where to stay in dubai, 7 best places in dubai, best time to travel to dubai, how to get to dubai, entry requirements, the inner suburbs, the arabian dhow, construction, festival city, ras al khor, tailor-made travel itineraries for united arab emirates, created by local experts.

4 days  / from 1138 USD

Dubai and Abu Dhabi: a Glimpse of the Future

As the fastest-growing city in the world, Dubai is always looking towards the future. Even for those who have visited before, this unique trip will reveal something new about this vast megacity.

10 days  / from 3087 USD

Magnificent Emirates

Experience the best of the UAE, from unexpected cultural discoveries to modern high-rises and mega malls. Be surprised by spectacular mountain scenery, vast, rolling dunes, desert oases and a sparkling Arabian Sea. Then simply tie it all in with laid-back beaches, fine dining and world-class hotels.

4 days  / from 990 USD

Dubai Family Stopover

Make a luxury stopover with all the family in gorgeous, glam Dubai for a spot of lazing on the beach and luxurious relaxation. Get the adrenaline racing in Wild Wadi Water Park and on an action-packed desert safari, boat rides along the creek and more.

Dubai’s ability to dream (and then achieve) the impossible has ripped up expectations and rewritten the record books, as evidenced by stunning developments such as the soaring Burj Khalifa , the beautiful Burj al Arab and the vast Palm Jumeirah island – a testament to the ruling sheikhs’ determination to make the city one of the world’s essential travel destinations for the twenty-first century. Yellow boats will take you to see the Palm Jumeirah, the Burj al Arab and the Marina on a single trip.

Modern Dubai is frequently seen as a panegyric to consumerist luxury: a self-indulgent haven of magical hotels, superlative restaurants and extravagantly themed shopping malls. Perhaps not surprisingly, the city is often stereotyped as a vacuous consumerist fleshpot, appealing only to those with more cash than culture, although this one-eyed cliché does absolutely no justice to Dubai’s beguiling contrasts and rich cultural make-up. The city’s headline-grabbing mega-projects have also deflected attention from Dubai’s role in providing the Islamic world with a model of political stability and religious tolerance, showing what can be achieved by a peaceful and progressive regime in one of the planet’s most troubled regions.

For the visitor, there’s far more to Dubai than designer boutiques and five-star hotels – although of course if all you’re looking for is a luxurious dose of sun, sand and shopping , the city takes some beating. If you want to step beyond the tourist clichés, however, you’ll find that Dubai has much more to offer than you might think, ranging from the fascinating old city centre, with its higgledy-piggledy labyrinth of bustling souks interspersed with fine old traditional Arabian houses, to the memorably quirky postmodern architectural skylines of the southern parts of the city. There's a vast array of diversions for children, too. Dubai Ice Rink offers a range of open-to-all public sessions, the aquarium is wonderful and iFly Dubai allows you to don a flying suit and take to the air.

Dubai’s human geography is no less memorable, featuring a cosmopolitan assortment of Emiratis, Arabs, Iranians, Indians, Filipinos and Europeans – a fascinating patchwork of peoples and languages that gives the city its uniquely varied cultural appeal. The credit crunch may have pushed Dubai to the verge of bankruptcy but pronouncements of its imminent demise proved wildly premature, and the city remains one of the twenty-first century’s most fascinating and vibrant urban experiments in progress. Visit Dubai now to see history, literally, in the making.

Beyond Dubai, there's endless expanses of desert to explore. Go dune-bashing in an off-road vehicle, or try your hand at sand-skiing. You can even book onto a Desert Safari , with BBQ, falconry, a camel ride and sandboarding all included.

Dubai has a vast range of accommodation, much of it aimed squarely at big spenders. There's also a decent selection of mid-range places, although nothing for real budget travellers.

At the top end of the market, the city has some of the most stunning hotels on the planet, from the futuristic Burj al Arab to traditional Arabian-themed palaces such as Al Qasr and the One&Only Royal Mirage. When it comes to creature comforts, all of Dubai’s top hotels do outrageous luxury as standard, with sumptuous suites, indulgent spa treatments, spectacular bars and gorgeous private beaches. The size and style of the very best places makes them virtually tourist attractions in their own right – self-contained islands of indulgence in which it’s possible to spend day after day without ever feeling the need to leave.

Madinat Jumeirah

Astounding mock-Arabian city, home to a string of lavish hotels and leisure facilities – the quintessential Dubaian example of opulent kitsch on an epic scale.

Deira Souks

At the heart of old Dubai, the district of Deira comprises an atmospheric tangle of bazaars, ranging from the Gold Souk’s glittering shop windows to the aromatic alleyways of the Spice Souk.

Dhow Wharfage

Home to hundreds of superb Arabian dhows moored up along the Deira creekside – one of central Dubai’s most incongruous but magical sights.

Al Ain Oasis

An idyllic retreat from the heat and dust of contemporary Al Ain, with peaceful little pedestrianized lanes running through shady plantations of luxuriant date palms.

Jumeirah Mosque

Dubai’s most beautiful mosque – open to visitors during informative guided tours.

One of the city’s best-preserved heritage areas, with a fascinating little labyrinth of old houses topped by innumerable wind towers.

Ibn Battuta Mall

Kitsch and eye-poppingly extravagant, this mile-long mall takes its inspiration from the journeys of Moroccan traveller Ibn Battuta.

The best time to visit Dubai is in the cooler winter months from December through to February, when the city enjoys a pleasantly Mediterranean climate, with average daily temperatures in the mid-20s °C. Not surprisingly, room rates (and demand) are at their peak during these months, though skies in January and February can sometimes be rather overcast, and it can even be surprisingly wet at times. Temperatures rise significantly from March through to April and in October and November, when the thermometer regularly nudges up into the 30s, though the heat is still relatively bearable, and shouldn’t stop you getting out and about.

During the summer months from May to September the city boils – July and August are especially suffocating – with average temperatures in the high 30s to low 40s (and frequently higher). Although the heat is intense (even after dark), room rates at most of the top hotels plummet by as much as 75 percent, making this an excellent time to enjoy some authentic Dubaian luxury at relatively affordable prices, so long as you don’t mind spending most of your time hopping between air-conditioned hotels, shopping malls, restaurants and clubs.

Dubai is the Middle East’s largest airline hub, boasting excellent connections worldwide with the city’s own Emirates airline and other international carriers. These include numerous direct flights to various destinations in the UK, plus a number of places in the US and Australia.

Other options for getting to Dubai are contrastingly limited (for Western visitors, at least). It’s possible to travel overland into the UAE from several points in neighbouring Oman, but not Saudi Arabia. There are no regular ferry services to Dubai, although the city is a popular stop on many cruise itineraries. Click here to read more about how to get to Dubai.

Nationals of the UK, Ireland and most other Western European countries, the US, Canada, Australia and New Zealand are issued a free thirty-day visa on arrival. Always check visa requirements direct with your UAE embassy or consulate as this information is subject to change. You’ll need a passport that will be valid for at least six months after the date of entry. Having an Israeli stamp in your passport shouldn’t be a problem. This visa can be extended for a further thirty days at a cost of 620dh by visiting the Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (DNRD), next to Bur Dubai Police Station, close to Al Jafiliya metro station (Sun–Wed 7.30am–7.30pm; T 04 313 9999 or T 800 5111, W dnrd.ae ). Click here for more Dubai travel essentials.

This page contains affiliate links; all recommendations are editorially independent.

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Fringing the southern and eastern edges of the city centre – and separating it from the more modern areas beyond – is a necklace of low-key suburbs: Garhoud, Oud Metha, Karama and Satwa. Southeast of Deira, workaday Garhoud is home to the Dubai Creek Golf Club , with its famously futuristic clubhouse, and the adjacent yacht club, where you’ll find a string of attractive waterside restaurants alongside the lovely Park Hyatt hotel. Directly over the Creek, Oud Metha is home to the quirky Wafi complex and the lavish Khan Murjan Souk , while west of here the enjoyably downmarket suburbs of Karama and Satwa are both interesting places to get off the tourist trail and see something of local life among the city’s Indian and Filipino expats, with plenty of cheap curry houses and shops selling designer fakes.

A handful of additional attractions can be found slightly further afield. Just beyond Oud Metha the suburb of Jaddaf is home to the city’s last surviving traditional dhow-building yard , while over the Creek rises the shiny new Festival City development. A few kilometres further along the Creek, the Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary protects a rare surviving patch of undeveloped wetland, home to colourful flocks of flamingo, while a short drive southwest from here brings you to the spectacular Meydan Racecourse , home to the Dubai Cup, the world’s richest horse race.

The inhabitants of the Arabian Peninsula were among the greatest seafarers of medieval times, using innovative shipbuilding techniques and navigational instruments to establish extensive maritime trading connections. Early Arab traders established outposts as far afield as India, Sri Lanka and East Africa, and the legacy of these early adventurers can still be seen in the religious and cultural heritage of places like Lamu in Kenya and Zanzibar in Tanzania, where the distinctive form of the lateen-sailed Arabian dhow survives to this day.

The word “dhow” itself is simply a generic name used to apply to all boats of Arabian design. Classic designs include the sambuq , a sizeable ocean-going vessel incorporating Indian and European features, including a square stern which is thought to have been influenced by old Portuguese galleons (traditional Arabian dhows are tapered at both ends), and the boom , another large seafaring dhow. Other smaller dhows still in use around the Gulf include the shu’ai and the jalibut , both formerly used for trading, pearling and fishing, as well as the abra , hundreds of which still ply the Creek today.

Perhaps the most distinctive feature of the traditional dhow was its so-called stitched construction – planks, usually of teak, were literally “sewn” together using coconut rope. Nails were increasingly used after European ships began to visit the region, although stitched boats were made right up until World War II. Traditional dhows are also unusual in being built “outside-in”, with exterior planking being nailed together before the internal framework is added (the exact opposite of European boat-building techniques).

The traditional dhow’s most visually notable feature was its distinctive triangular lateen sails, which allows boats to sail closer to the wind when travelling against the monsoon breezes. These have now disappeared on commercial vessels around the Gulf following the introduction of engines, though they can still be seen on local racing dhows.

Traditional wooden dhows still play an important part in the local economy, and continue to prove an efficient and cost-effective way of shipping goods around the Gulf and, particularly, over to Iran – as well as finding a new lease of life as tourist pleasure boats. There are still a number of traditional dhow-building yards around the UAE: in Dubai at Jaddaf, and in the neighbouring emirates of Ajman, Umm al Quwain and Ras al Khaimah, although the incredibly labour-intensive production costs and a gradual loss of the traditional skills required in dhow-construction (local boat-builders are famed for their ability to work without plans, building entirely by eye and experience) may eventually drive old-style dhow-building into extinction.

Facing Jaddaf on the opposite side of the Creek, Festival City is one of Dubai’s newest and largest purpose-built neighbourhoods – a self-contained city within a city, complete with villas and apartments, offices, golf course, marina, shopping mall and a pair of swanky five-star hotels.

Centrepiece of the development is the bright Festival Centre shopping mall. There’s nothing here that you won’t find (and generally done better) at other malls around the city, although the canalside cafés at the Creek end of the centre are pleasant enough, and there are also “sofa boats” for rent if you fancy a sedate turn around the waterways. Best of all are the sweeping views from the waterfront promenade (next to the mall and the adjacent Crowne Plaza and InterContinental hotels) over the Creek to the dhow-building yard at Jaddaf and the long line of skyscrapers beyond. The panorama is particularly fine towards dusk, when the sun sets behind the Burj Khalifa and towers along Sheikh Zayed Road, turning them a smoky grey, like the outline of some kind of surreal bar chart.

Covering the area between the airport and the Creek, the suburb of Garhoud is an interesting mishmash of up- and downmarket attractions. The Deira City Centre mall is the main draw for locals, eternally popular with an eclectic crowd running the gamut from Gulf Arabs and Russian bargain-hunters through to the many expat Indians and Filipinos who live in the down-at-heel suburbs on the far side of the airport.

On the southern edge of Oud Metha, the district of Jaddaf is home to the very last of Dubai’s traditional dhow-building yards , where you may be lucky enough to see craftsmen at work constructing these magnificent ocean-going vessels using carpentry skills which appear not to have changed for generations. The yards aren’t really set up for visitors and are essentially places of work, rather than tourist attractions, while there’s also a certain degree of pot luck involved depending on how many vessels are under construction at any given time – although the mainly Indian workforce are usually happy to chat to visitors and the yard owners don’t generally mind visitors having a look around.

Karama is the classic Dubai inner-city suburb, home to some of the legions of Indian, Pakistani and Filipino expatriate workers – waitresses, taxi drivers, builders and shopkeepers – who supply so much of the city’s labour. The district is centred on Kuwait Street and the bustling little Karama Centre , one of the city’s pokiest malls, with colourful little shops selling shalwar kameez and flouncy Indian-style jewellery. At the end of Kuwait Street lies the lively Karama Park , surrounded by cheap and cheery Indian restaurants and usually busy with a dozen simultaneous cricket matches after dark.

Just south of Karama Park is the district’s main tourist attraction, the Karama Souk , an unprepossessing concrete mall of hundreds of small shops stuffed full of fake designer clothes, watches, glasses, DVDs and other items (or “copy watches” and “copy bags” as the souk’s enthusiastic touts euphemistically describe them).

Around 4km south of Ras al Khor, the vast Meydan complex provides conclusive proof of the ruling Maktoum family’s passion – bordering on obsession – for all things equine. Centrepiece of the complex is the superb racecourse , opened in 2010 to replace the old track at nearby Nad al Sheba and provide a new and more fitting venue for the Dubai World Cup , the world’s richest horse race with a massive US$10 million in prize money. The complex also contains the usual fancy five-star hotel along with a few other buildings in a mixed residential and business development which is eventually intended to form a self-contained “city” along the lines of Festival City down the road.

Godolphin and the racing Maktoums

Ruler and architect of contemporary Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum is also celebrated in racing circles as one of today’s leading owners and breeders of thoroughbreds in his role as the founder of Godolphin , established in 1994 and now one of the world’s largest and most successful racing stables. Sheikh Mohammed’s love of horses runs deep: he is said to have shared his breakfast with his horse en route to school as a boy, to have competed in his first horse race aged 12, and to have been able to tame wild horses considered unrideable by others. His love of the turf dates back to his time as a student at Cambridge in England in the 1960s, and within a decade he and his brothers Hamdan and Ahmed all had horses in training at nearby Newmarket. The first of many Maktoum family triumphs came in 1982, when Hamdan’s Touching Wood won that year’s St Leger classic at Doncaster, followed up by Derby wins in 1989 and 1994.

Godolphin now have over 1500 horses in training across the globe and have won more than three thousand races in fourteen different countries, becoming one of the biggest buyers and breeders of racehorses on the planet, with a total investment in bloodstock, stud farms and various related properties now worth over US$2.45 billion. In 2013, they also had the less enviable distinction of finding themselves at the centre of what The Economist described as "the biggest doping scandal in racing history" when it was discovered that 22 horses at their Newmarket stables had been dosed with anabolic steroids by their head trainer, Mahmood al Zarooni. Al Zarooni was immediately dismissed and prompt action was taken to clear Godolphin's global reputation, and in 2014 the stables went on to enjoy easily their most successful year ever, with a staggering 361 wins worldwide.

Across the Creek from Garhoud, the rather formless suburb of Oud Metha is home to assorted malls, hotels and lowbrow leisure attractions, including the old-fashioned Lamcy Plaza and the even more old-fashioned Al Nasr Leisureland amusement park. Nearby, the serene Ismaili Centre sits amid attractive gardens on land donated by Sheikh Rashid in 1982. It’s one of Dubai’s most beautiful places of worship, combining hints of Morocco and Egypt in its elegantly understated architecture, although sadly entry is restricted to Ismaili–Muslims, so most visitors will be able to see only those parts of the building visible from the street.

Khan Murjan Souk

Hidden away between Wafi and Raffles , Khan Murjan Souk is one of Dubai’s finest “traditional” developments, allegedly modelled after the fabled fourteenth-century Khan Murjan Souk in Baghdad. The souk is divided into four sections – Egyptian, Syrian, Moroccan and Turkish (not that you can really tell the difference) – spread over two underground levels with a lovely outdoor restaurant at its centre and some 125 shops selling all manner of traditional wares. It’s a great (albeit pricey) place to shop, while the faux-Arabian decor is impressively done, with lavish detailing ranging from intricately carved wooden balconies to enormous Moroccan lanterns and colourful tilework. Of course, it’s all about as authentic as a Mulberry bag from Karama – indeed, if the city authorities are serious about clamping down on the local trade in fakes and forgeries, they could do worse than start here. Still, the whole thing has been done with such enormous panache and at, presumably, such enormous expense that it’s hard not to be at least a little bit impressed.

Wafi and Raffles

Oud Metha's leading attraction is the wacky Egyptian-themed Wafi complex, a little slice of Vegas in Dubai, dotted with assorted random obelisks, Pharaonic statues, random hieroglyphs and miniature pyramids, and with a good selection of shops and restaurants inside. The Egyptian theme is continued in the opulent Raffles hotel next door, built in the form of a vast pyramid complete with glass-capped summit – particularly spectacular when lit up after dark. The hotel is also exactly the same height (139m) as the Great Pyramid of Cheops at Giza in Egypt, which puts the incredible size of that ancient wonder of the world into remarkable perspective.

Some 5km southwest of Festival City, the Dubai Creek flows into Ras al Khor , an extensive inland lagoon dotted with mangroves and surrounded by intertidal salt and mud flats – a unique area of unspoilt nature close to the city centre. As its name, "Head of the Creek", suggests, Ras al Khor originally marked the end of Dubai's principal waterway, although the Creek has now been extended a further 7km or so all the way to Business Bay, with further works planned as part of the Dubai Canal project which will eventually take it all the way back to the sea at Jumeirah – meaning that by 2017 Ras al Khor will no longer be anywhere near the head of the Creek, but more like about halfway round.

Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

The southern end of the lagoon provides, for now at least, a home for the low-key Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, best known for its aquatic birdlife. The sanctuary is an important stopover on winter migratory routes from East Africa to West Asia, and almost seventy different species have been spotted here. It’s best known for the colourful flocks of bright pink flamingoes which nest here – one of Dubai’s most surreal sights when seen perched against the smoggy outlines of the city skyscrapers beyond. You can’t actually go into the sanctuary, but you can birdwatch from one of two hides on its edge. Signage for the hides is minimal and you’ll need a car to reach them, but don’t expect taxi drivers to know where they are. Free binoculars are provided, although the roar of the nearby motorways isn’t particularly conducive to the relaxed contemplation of nature. The two hides are Fantir (“Flamingo”) hide on the west side of the sanctuary, beside the Oud Metha road (E66) just north of the junction with the Hatta road (E44); and Gum (“Mangrove”) hide on the south side of the sanctuary, on the north side of the Hatta road – although to reach it from central Dubai you’ll need to do an annoying 8km loop to get back on the correct side of the highway.

The unpretentious district of Satwa is the southernmost of Dubai’s predominantly low-rise, low-income inner suburbs before you reach the giant skyscrapers of Sheikh Zayed Road and the beginnings of the supersized modern city beyond. It’s also one of the few places in Dubai where the city’s different ethnic groups really rub shoulders, with its mix of Arab, Indian, Filipino and even a few European residents reflected in an unusually eclectic selection of places to eat, from cheap-and-cheerful curry houses to Lebanese shwarma cafés and Western fast-food joints.

At the centre of the district lies Satwa Roundabout , overlooked by the Chelsea Plaza hotel. The streets south of here are mainly occupied by Indian and Pakistani shops and cafés, including the well-known Ravi’s . West from the roundabout stretches Satwa’s principal thoroughfare, the tree-lined 2nd December Street (still widely referred to by its old name, Al Diyafah Street), one of the nicest in Dubai – and one of the few outside the city centre with any real street life – with wide pavements, dozens of cafés and restaurants and an interestingly cosmopolitan atmosphere. It all feels rather Mediterranean, especially after dark, when the cafés get going, the crowds come out, and young men in expensive cars start driving round and round the block in a vain effort to impress.

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written by Andy Turner

updated 26.04.2021

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