Top Sights in Dubai

Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world impresses with breathtaking architecture and spectacular views over Dubai.

Architectural masterpiece and cultural significance

The Burj Khalifa is not only the tallest building in the world, but also a symbol of Dubai's ambition and innovative spirit. At a height of 828 meters, it surpasses all other skyscrapers and shapes the city's skyline like no other structure.

Its architecture is inspired by the desert flower Hymenocallis, whose symmetrical form is reflected in the Y-shaped base structure of the tower. This design ensures stability and allows the building to withstand strong winds. The facade consists of over 26,000 glass panels that provide heat protection and energy efficiency.

Since its opening in 2010, the Burj Khalifa has developed into a global landmark. It stands for Dubai's transformation from a small trading city to one of the most modern metropolises in the world.

Unforgettable experiences for visitors

A visit to the Burj Khalifa is an unforgettable experience, as the observation decks offer spectacular views over Dubai and the surrounding desert.

• At The Top (124th & 125th floors): Here, visitors are greeted with a 360-degree panoramic view and interactive displays about the city's history.
• At The Top SKY (148th floor): The highest public observation deck in the world at 555 meters with exclusive access and a personal guide.
• The Lounge (152nd to 154th floors): The highest restaurant in the world with stylish afternoon teas and cocktails with a unique view.
• Light and water show: The famous Dubai Fountain at the foot of the Burj Khalifa captivates with synchronized light effects and music. Especially in the evening, a magical atmosphere is created.

For the best experience, it is recommended to visit the tower during sunset – the city transforms into a sea of lights, and the view is breathtaking.

Everything you need to know before your visit

• Address: Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai
• Getting there:
• • Metro: Station Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, about a 10-minute walk
  • Bus: Lines F13, 27, 28, and 29 stop at Dubai Mall
  • Taxi/Car: About a 20-minute drive from Dubai International Airport
• Opening hours:
• • At The Top (124th & 125th floors): Daily 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM (last entry 10:00 PM)
  • At The Top SKY (148th floor): Daily 9:00 AM – 10:00 PM (last entry 9:00 PM)
• Admission prices: (as of March 2025)
• • At The Top: From 149 AED (about 40 USD) for adults
  • At The Top SKY: From 370 AED (about 100 USD)

Tips for your visit:
✔ Book tickets in advance to avoid long wait times.
✔ Choose sunset time slots (4:00 PM – 6:30 PM) for the best views.
✔ Arrive early (about 20 minutes prior) to reduce wait times at security checks.
✔ Use combo tickets to combine your visit with other attractions like the Dubai Aquarium.

The Burj Khalifa is an absolute highlight of any trip to Dubai and a place that should be visited at least once in a lifetime.

Dubai Mall & Dubai Fountain

The largest shopping mall in the world and a spectacular water show make this duo an essential highlight in Dubai.

Architectural masterpiece and cultural significance

The Dubai Mall is much more than just a shopping center – it is a world unto itself. With over 1,200 stores and a total area of 5.9 million square feet, it ranks among the largest malls in the world. Its size is equivalent to that of 50 football fields, and in 2023, it recorded over 105 million visitors – more than any other destination worldwide.

In addition to exclusive boutiques and flagship stores, the Dubai Mall offers numerous attractions: a gigantic aquarium, an Olympic ice rink, a state-of-the-art cinema, and a wide selection of restaurants and cafés. It was developed as part of the billion-dollar Downtown Dubai project next to the Burj Khalifa and is now one of the city's most famous landmarks.

Directly in front of the mall is the Dubai Fountain – a masterpiece of engineering. The fountain, designed by WET Design, features state-of-the-art water jets that shoot fountains up to 50 stories high. The music shows, which include a mix of Arabic, Western, and Asian melodies, are not only visually impressive but also promote intercultural exchange. The fountain show attracts thousands of visitors daily and has become a staple of every trip to Dubai.

Unforgettable experiences for visitors

The Dubai Mall is not only a paradise for shopping enthusiasts but also offers a variety of unique experiences:

• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: One of the largest aquariums in the world with over 140 marine species in a 10-million-liter tank.
• VR Park: An amusement park that combines state-of-the-art augmented and virtual reality technology.
• Dubai Ice Rink: An Olympic-sized ice rink in the middle of the desert – perfect for cooling off on hot days.
• KidZania: An interactive city for children where they can try out different professions.
• Dubai Dino: An impressive dinosaur exhibition featuring a real skeleton that is 155 million years old.

The Dubai Fountain provides another highlight: the stunning water and light shows take place daily from 6:00 PM every 30 minutes. The best viewing spots are:

• Dubai Mall Promenade – located directly at the mall.
• Souk Al Bahar – a traditionally designed market with restaurants and views of the fountain.
• Dubai Fountain Boardwalk – a floating walkway that brings visitors up to 9 meters close to the fountains.
• Burj Khalifa Observation Deck – a spectacular view from above during the fountain show.

A visit during sunset or in the evening is especially recommended when the water shows create a magical atmosphere with light effects and music.

Everything you need to know before your visit

• Address: Financial Center Road, Downtown Dubai, directly next to the Burj Khalifa
• Getting there:
• • Metro: Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, from there a climate-controlled pedestrian bridge leads to the mall.
  • Bus: Lines 27 and 29 stop directly at Dubai Mall.
  • Car: The mall has over 14,000 parking spaces and a taxi stand at the main entrance.
• Opening hours:
• • Dubai Mall: Sunday – Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM, Thursday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM
  • Dubai Fountain Show: Daily from 6:00 PM, every 30 minutes until 11:00 PM
• Admission prices for attractions:
• • Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Prices vary depending on the ticket option; online purchase is recommended for discounts.
  • Dubai Ice Rink: Daily prices vary, depending on the season and offers.
  • KidZania: Admission prices depend on the chosen package and the age of the children.

Tips for your visit:
✔ Visit on weekdays (Monday – Wednesday) to avoid the largest crowds.
✔ Arrive early in the morning or late in the evening to enjoy a more relaxing atmosphere.
✔ Use the Dubai Mall app to navigate better in the enormous shopping center.
✔ Visit attractions like the Dubai Aquarium right after opening or shortly before closing to avoid long lines.
✔ Avoid major events like the Dubai Shopping Festival in January or the Dubai Food Festival.

The combination of luxury shopping, impressive attractions, and the fascinating Dubai Fountain makes this area one of the most exciting places in Dubai. You can easily spend a whole day here – or even several.

Palm Jumeirah & Atlantis The Palm

Dubai's artificial palm island delights with luxurious resorts, spectacular attractions, and breathtaking architecture.

Architectural masterpiece and cultural significance

Palm Jumeirah is one of the most impressive artificial islands in the world and a masterpiece of modern engineering. It was created from 94 million cubic meters of sand and 7 million tons of rock and precisely shaped using GPS technology. Its iconic palm shape is not only an architectural statement but also a tribute to the cultural heritage of the region.

The island is protected by an 11.5-kilometer breakwater to prevent storms and erosion. Two wide channels in the barrier ensure improved water circulation. However, the construction presented challenges for engineers: the tight deadlines and the nature of the seabed required innovative solutions to ensure the stability of the island.

Atlantis The Palm, the landmark of the island, symbolizes Dubai’s luxury and extravagance. With its imposing design and spectacular experiences, the resort has become one of the most famous hotels in the world. Palm Jumeirah was part of a large-scale strategy to reduce Dubai's dependence on oil and strengthen tourism as an economic factor.

Unforgettable experiences for visitors

Palm Jumeirah offers an impressive mix of luxury, entertainment, and natural experiences.

• Aquaventure Waterpark: The largest water park in the world with over 105 slides, including the famous 'Leap of Faith,' which takes visitors through a glass tunnel in the middle of a shark tank.
• Lost Chambers Aquarium: A fascinating underwater experience with over 65,000 marine animals in 21 exhibit areas. Visitors can wander through underwater tunnels or participate in special diving and snorkeling programs.
• Dolphin Bay: Here, interactive experiences with dolphins are possible, including swimming, diving, or encounters in shallow water.

In addition to the attractions at Atlantis The Palm, the island offers further experiences:

• Palm Boardwalk: A walk along the coast with views of Dubai's skyline.
• Palm Fountain: The largest floating fountain show in the world with free, spectacular water displays.
• Exclusive experiences: Luxurious spa treatments, helicopter tours, or private beach dining under the starry sky create unforgettable moments.

For a varied experience, it's worth combining free attractions with targeted, paid highlights.

Everything you need to know before your visit

• Getting there:
• • Metro: Red Line to DAMAC Properties, then transfer to the Palm Monorail.
  • Tram: To the Palm Jumeirah Tram Station with a connection to the Monorail.
  • Bus: Lines 8, 83, 84, and F55A serve Palm Jumeirah.
  • Taxi & Car: Accessible directly via Sheikh Zayed Road.
  • Water taxi & ferries: A particularly picturesque travel option (schedules via RTA).
• Admission prices: (As of March 2025)
• • Aquaventure Waterpark: From 320 AED (approx. 89 USD)
  • Lost Chambers Aquarium: From 115 AED (approx. 31 USD)
  • Dolphin Experience: From 575 AED (approx. 157 USD)
  • Combo ticket Aquaventure + Lost Chambers: Approx. 100 EUR
• Best visiting times:
• • Mornings or evenings for less crowd.
  • Weekdays instead of weekends for a more relaxed experience.
  • November to March for pleasant temperatures (24-28°C).

Tips for your visit:
✔ Book online tickets in advance to avoid waiting times and secure discounts.
✔ Use combo tickets to experience several attractions more affordably.
✔ Arrive early to secure the best lounge spots in the water park.
✔ Prefer weekdays, as weekends are often crowded.

Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis The Palm combine luxury, adventure, and spectacular experiences – an absolute must for visitors in Dubai.

Dubai Marina & The Walk at JBR

A modern district with an impressive skyline, luxurious marinas, and a vibrant beach promenade.

Architectural masterpiece and cultural significance

Dubai Marina and The Walk at JBR are among the most modern neighborhoods in Dubai and embody the urban lifestyle of the city. Shaped by architectural masterpieces, an artificially created water landscape, and a vibrant atmosphere, they have become one of the most popular places for residents and visitors alike.

The skyline of Dubai Marina includes some of the most spectacular skyscrapers in the city, including the Cayan Tower, whose spiral design sets architectural standards, and the Princess Tower, which was once the tallest residential tower in the world at 414 meters. The artificial canal of the marina stretches over 3.5 kilometers and was created as part of a visionary urban plan that aimed to position Dubai as a world-class location for living, working, and leisure.

The construction of the marina began in 2003 with land reclamation and excavation of the canal, before it was officially opened in 2008. To this day, the district continues to develop, with new restaurants, hotels, and attractions constantly expanding the offerings. The combination of a luxurious lifestyle, international atmosphere, and innovative urban planning make Dubai Marina a symbol of the city's rapid development.

Unforgettable experiences for visitors

Dubai Marina and The Walk at JBR offer a wealth of experiences, ranging from leisurely walks along the promenade to action-packed adventures on the water.

• Yacht and boat tours: A ride through the marina and along the coast offers impressive views of the skyline and sights like Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab. Sunset tours with snacks and drinks on board are especially popular.
• Speedboat adventures: Adrenaline junkies can experience Dubai's landmarks on a thrilling ride on the water.
• Rooftop bars with a view: Places like Pure Sky Lounge or Atelier M offer breathtaking panoramic views of the marina and the sea.
• The Walk at JBR: The vibrant beach promenade is lined with boutiques, restaurants, and cafés. Street artists' performances, markets, and events take place regularly here.
• Culinary diversity: Whether fresh seafood at Catch22, Greek specialties at Ammos, or modern Indian cuisine at Bombay Bungalow – the restaurant scene at The Walk has something for every taste.
• XLine Zipline: For thrill-seekers, there's the opportunity to glide over the marina via zip line and experience the impressive skyline from a bird's-eye view.

The mix of relaxed beach life, luxurious yachts, and urban flair makes Dubai Marina and The Walk at JBR a unique experience for visitors.

Everything you need to know before your visit

• Getting there:
• • Metro: The red line stops at the stations Sobha Realty and DMCC.Dubai Tram: Direct connection to Jumeirah Beach Residences and Palm Jumeirah.
  • Bus: Lines 8, 84, F55, and X28 serve the district.
  • Taxi: Taxis are readily available in Dubai Marina.
  • Parking:
  • Dubai Marina Mall (first 3 hours free)
  • • Marina Parking (free, 1,000 parking spaces)
    • Best visiting time:
• From November to March, temperatures are pleasant for outdoor activities.
• • To avoid crowds, visit during the week in the morning (10:00 – 12:00).
  • Current prices for activities (as of March 2025):
• Dhow dinner cruises: approx. 120-130 AED (30-33 EUR) per person
• • Yacht tours:
  • 1-hour tour from 85 AED (21 EUR) per person
  • • 2-hour tour with BBQ from 260 AED (65 EUR) for adults
    • Helicopter tours: from 710 AED (178 EUR) for 12 minutes
  • XLine Zipline: Prices vary, discounts available for morning slots during the week
  • Dubai Marina and The Walk at JBR combine luxurious lifestyle with a maritime atmosphere and offer an unmatched variety of experiences – a must for every Dubai visitor.

Burj Al Arab

Dubai's most luxurious hotel impresses with iconic architecture, exceptional service, and exclusive experiences.

Architectural masterpiece and cultural significance

The Burj Al Arab is far more than just a luxury hotel – it is regarded as the epitome of opulence and perfection. At a height of 321 meters, it is one of the tallest hotels in the world and was built on an artificial island connected to the mainland by a private bridge.

The sail-shaped design was deliberately chosen to honor Dubai's maritime traditions. The facade is covered with a special translucent membrane that provides natural cooling and allows the building to shine in spectacular colors at night.

The interior is equally impressive: gilded details, exquisite marble floors, and silk wallpaper define the luxurious ambiance. Guests reside exclusively in spacious suites, attended by a personal butler. Particularly famous is the Royal Suite, which ranks among the most expensive hotel suites in the world.

The Burj Al Arab owes its reputation as a '7-star hotel' to a British journalist who was so impressed during its opening that she coined this unofficial category. Although there is officially no '7-star rating,' the Burj Al Arab is synonymous with ultimate luxury.

Unforgettable experiences for visitors

Even if an overnight stay is unaffordable for many, there are numerous ways to experience the Burj Al Arab as a visitor.

Inside Burj Al Arab Tour: A 90-minute tour of the hotel with exclusive access to opulent suites and interactive presentations about the building's history.

• Afternoon tea at Sahn Eddar: A stylish experience with fine teas and exquisite delicacies in a luxurious atmosphere.
• SkyView Bar on the 27th floor: A breathtaking panoramic view of the Arabian Gulf over cocktails or champagne.
• Dinner in top restaurants: From Arabic specialties at Al Iwan to French gourmet cuisine at Al Muntaha – each restaurant offers a unique culinary experience.
• Underwater restaurant Al Mahara: A dinner amid a giant aquarium with views of exotic marine life.
• Exclusive events: Tennis matches and Formula 1 stunts have been held on the helicopter landing pad – occasionally, VIP events take place there.
• A visit to the Burj Al Arab is an opportunity to experience Dubai's famous luxury up close.

Everything you need to know before your visit

Address: Jumeirah Beach Road, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai, United Arab Emirates

• Getting there:
• Taxi: About 25 minutes from Dubai International Airport (approx. 100–150 AED)
• • Public transport: Metro Red Line to
  • Mall of the Emirates, then taxi or busPrivate transfer: More luxurious option (approx. 300–500 AED)
  • Visiting options and prices (as of March 2025):
• Inside Burj Al Arab Tour:
• • From 249 AED per personTour with drink in the UMA Lounge:
  • 369 AEDAfternoon Tea:
  • From 635 AED per personSkyView Bar beverage package:
  • From 330 AEDDinner experiences:
  • Between 399 and 699 AED per person (depending on the restaurant)Tips for your visit:

✔ Book early, especially during peak times.
✔ Make a restaurant or bar reservation to gain access to the building.
✔ Observe the dress code – elegant attire is required.
✔ Book through a travel agency for preferred access.
✔ Take a jetski tour around the hotel for spectacular photos.
A spontaneous visit without a reservation is not possible – all tours or meals must be booked in advance. However, those who indulge in the luxury receive a unique insight into one of the most exclusive hotels in the world.

Al Fahidi Historical District & Dubai Museum

A historic district that preserves Dubai's past and brings visitors closer to the cultural diversity of the city.

Architectural masterpiece and cultural significance

The Al Fahidi Historical District, also known as Al Bastakiya, is one of the oldest neighborhoods in Dubai and provides an authentic glimpse into the time before the city's modern development. Founded in the late 19th century by Persian traders, the district quickly became an important trading center due to its location by Dubai Creek. The traditional wind towers (Barajeel), narrow alleys, and sandstone-colored buildings bear witness to Dubai's past and offer a stark contrast to the city's futuristic skyline.

At the heart of the district is the Dubai Museum, housed in the Al Fahidi Fort – Dubai's oldest still-preserved building from 1787. The fort once served as a ruler's residence, garrison, and prison before being transformed into a museum in 1971. Today, it features multimedia exhibitions on the history of Dubai, from its origins as a fishing village through the pearl diving era to the modern metropolis.

Thanks to numerous restoration efforts, the Al Fahidi district has been preserved and has evolved into an important cultural center. Regular art festivals, cultural events, and exhibitions take place here, highlighting the connection between the past and present.

Unforgettable experiences for visitors

A walk through the district feels like a journey back in time. Besides the Dubai Museum, there are numerous other cultural highlights to discover:

Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding: Offers interactive programs about Emirati culture, including traditional meals and guided tours.

• XVA Gallery and Majlis Gallery: Showcase contemporary art from local and international artists.
• Coin Museum: A collection of over 500 historical coins illustrating Dubai's trading history.
• House of Calligraphy: A museum dedicated to the art of Arabic calligraphy.
• The Dubai Museum itself offers interactive exhibits, including replicas of traditional Bedouin villages, ancient trade routes, and the life of pearl divers, who played a central role in Dubai's economy until the 1950s.

Culinarily, the district also offers an authentic experience:

Arabian Tea House: A charming café featuring traditional Emirati dishes and over 150 varieties of tea.

• Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant & Café: Serves classic dishes in a historic courtyard.
• Al Ustad Special Kebab: A local institution for delicious kebabs with decades of history.
• For a leisurely exploration, a traditional abra ride on Dubai Creek is recommended to experience the historic district from a different perspective.

Everything you need to know before your visit

Location: Bur Dubai, near Dubai Creek

• Getting there:
• Metro: Green Line to
• • Al FahidiorBurJumanStationBus: Lines 15, 21, 29, 83 or C1 to
  • Al Fahidi Metro Bus StopCar: Accessible via Sheikh Rashid Rd/E11 or Al Ittihad Rd/D74
  • Abra: Water taxi from
  • Deira Old Souk Abra StationtoBur Dubai Abra StationOpening hours:
• Saturday to Thursday: 8:30 AM – 8:30 PM
• • Friday: 2:30 PM – 8:30 PM
  • Entrance fees:
• Adults: 3 AED (approx. 0.75 EUR)
• • Children under 6 years: 1 AED (approx. 0.25 EUR)
  • Best time to visit:

✔ November to March – Pleasant temperatures between 18°C and 30°C.
✔ Mornings or late afternoons – To avoid the midday heat.
✔ Weekdays – Fewer visitors than on weekends.
During Ramadan, some restaurants may be closed during the day, and special behavior rules apply in public spaces.

The Al Fahidi district is one of the few corners of Dubai where you can experience the authentic heritage of the city – perfect for anyone wanting to dive into the culture and history of the Emirates.

Dubai Frame

The giant picture frame offers a spectacular view of Dubai's past and future.

Architectural masterpiece and cultural significance

The Dubai Frame is more than just an architectural attraction – it is a symbol of Dubai's transformation from a small trading town to a global metropolis. At a height of 150 meters and a width of 93 meters, it is considered the largest picture frame in the world. Its gold-adorned façade recalls traditional Islamic patterns and connects cultural heritage with modern design.

The frame is positioned so that it perfectly 'frames' Dubai's development: From one side, you look out over historic Dubai with its traditional neighborhoods, while the other side showcases the modern skyline with its impressive skyscrapers. The idea for the building originated in 2009 during an international design competition, won by architect Fernando Donis with the concept of creating a landmark that highlights what exists rather than erecting a new monument.

After five years of construction, the Dubai Frame was opened in 2018. It is not only an impressive structure but also part of the 'Dubai Vision 2021,' symbolizing the cultural and economic growth of the city.

Unforgettable experiences for visitors

A visit to the Dubai Frame offers a fascinating mix of views, technology, and cultural history.

Glass bridge at 150 meters height: Visitors cross a 25-meter-long glass platform, giving the feeling of floating above the city.

• 360-degree panorama: From the observation deck, a unique view opens up of Dubai's development – from the old town to the modern skyscrapers.
• Multimedia exhibition: An interactive exhibition on the ground floor showcases the transformation of Dubai from fishing village to high-tech metropolis through 3D projections and special effects.
• Glimpse into the future: A dedicated area focuses on Dubai's future visions, presented through holograms and virtual reality experiences.
• For a special experience, a visit in the late afternoon is recommended when the sun sets and the skyline is bathed in golden light.

Everything you need to know before your visit

Address: Zabeel Park, Za'abeel, Al Kifaf, Dubai

• Getting there:
• Metro: Green Line to
• • Al Jafiliya Station, from there about a 10-minute walkBus: Lines 21, 31, and F13 stop near Zabeel Park
  • Car: The Dubai Frame is easily accessible via Sheikh Zayed Road, with parking available
  • Taxi: Direct access to the entrance is possible
  • Opening hours:
• Daily from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
• • Entrance fees: (As of March 2025)
• Adults:
• • 50 AEDChildren (3–12 years):
  • 20 AEDToddlers (under 3 years):
  • FreePersons with disabilities & two companions:
  • FreeTips for your visit:

✔ Come early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid long lines.
✔ Take advantage of sunset (around 5:00 PM) to experience the skyline in perfect light.
✔ Prefer weekdays, as weekends are often busier.
✔ Choose a pleasant travel time between September and March to avoid high temperatures.
✔ Avoid midday visits (12:00 – 3:00 PM) when the sun is the most intense.
The Dubai Frame offers a unique opportunity to capture Dubai's past, present, and future in a single glance – a must for any visitor to the city.

Dubai's attractions – experience a city of superlatives

Dubai impresses with a unique blend of modern architecture, luxurious experiences, and cultural highlights. From the breathtaking view from the Burj Khalifa to the iconic perspective in the Dubai Frame – each landmark tells its own story. Whether historic districts, gigantic shopping malls, or iconic buildings, Dubai offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler. Those who visit the city immerse themselves in a world full of innovation, tradition, and limitless possibilities.

The 8 Top Attractions in Dubai – Must-See Highlights