Dubai · 26 Places · Best November to March
Dubai is a dazzling emirate on the southeastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, renowned for its ultramodern skyline, luxury shopping, and world-record-breaking landmarks. From the iconic Burj Khalifa piercing the clouds to pristine beaches along the Arabian Gulf, Dubai seamlessly blends Bedouin heritage with 21st-century ambition. It is one of the world's most visited cities, attracting tens of millions of tourists each year with its unrivalled mix of culture, adventure, and opulence.
Dubai is the largest city and most populous emirate of the UAE, a global hub for business, tourism, and luxury travel. The emirate offers an extraordinary range of experiences from desert safaris and heritage dhow cruises to Michelin-starred dining and mega-malls. Home to the world's tallest building, busiest international airport, and a stunning 50+ km coastline, Dubai delivers world-class infrastructure alongside a rich Emirati cultural heritage. Its year-round sunshine and tax-free shopping make it a perennial favourite for travellers from every corner of the globe.
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The 26 destinations our editors recommend — from iconic landmarks to under-the-radar finds.
The world's tallest building at 828 metres offers breathtaking panoramic views from the At the Top observation deck on floors 124 and 148. The tower dominates Downtown Dubai's skyline and houses the Armani Hotel, luxury residences, and offices. Pre-book tickets online to avoid long queues at this iconic landmark.
The world's largest shopping mall by total area features over 1,200 shops, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, an indoor ice rink, and the Dubai Fountain. With over 80 million visitors annually it is one of the most visited destinations on Earth. Spend a full day exploring its retail, entertainment, and dining options.
The world's largest artificial archipelago is shaped like a palm tree and stretches 5 km into the Arabian Gulf. Home to luxury villas, the Atlantis resort, and dozens of five-star hotels, it is accessible via the Palm Monorail from the mainland. The crescent tip offers stunning views back towards the Dubai skyline.
This architectural masterpiece opened in 2022 and is widely regarded as one of the world's most beautiful buildings, featuring a torus-shaped structure clad in Arabic calligraphy. Inside, immersive exhibitions explore how technology and innovation will shape humanity's future over the next 50 years. Allow at least three hours to experience all five floors of interactive exhibits.
Also known as Al Bastakiya, this is Dubai's best-preserved heritage district featuring over 50 traditional wind-tower houses dating from the late 19th century. Wander through atmospheric alleyways, visit artisan galleries, and learn about pre-oil Dubai at the Dubai Museum located in nearby Al Fahidi Fort. The neighbourhood sits beside Dubai Creek and is perfect for exploring by foot.
A quintessential Dubai experience involving high-speed 4x4 dune bashing across the red dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, followed by an evening at a traditional Bedouin camp with camel rides, falconry displays, henna painting, and a buffet dinner under the stars. This is one of Dubai's most popular excursions and available from virtually every hotel.
Pick a length, follow the route. Each itinerary balances headline sights with breathing room.
Three tiers, every traveller covered — from cost-conscious to flagship hotels.
Hostels, budget hotels, and guesthouses offer affordable stays without sacrificing experience.
Boutique hotels and well-located accommodations provide comfort and convenience at reasonable prices.
World-class resorts and premium hotels deliver unforgettable experiences.
The world's most iconic hotel stands on its own private island and rises 321 metres in the shape of a billowing sail. Every room is a two-floor suite with butler service, and the property includes eight world-class restaurants and a private beach club.
Check rates on Booking.comThis legendary resort at the apex of Palm Jumeirah includes the Aquaventure Waterpark, Ambassador Lagoon, and multiple Michelin-starred restaurants. With over 1,500 rooms and suites it is one of Dubai's most celebrated holiday destinations.
Check rates on Booking.comDesigned entirely by Giorgio Armani himself, this boutique luxury hotel occupies floors 1-8 and 38-39 of the Burj Khalifa. Intimate and sophisticated, with just 160 rooms and suites, it offers unrivalled access to the world's most famous address.
Check rates on Booking.comThe ultra-exclusive sister property to Atlantis The Palm opened in 2023 and immediately became one of the world's most talked-about hotels. Featuring infinity pools suspended between towers, Michelin-starred restaurants, and a beach club, it represents the absolute pinnacle of Dubai luxury.
Check rates on Booking.comCafés, neighbourhood gems, and tasting menus worth the table reservation.
Dubai's only three-Michelin-star restaurant delivers a theatrical 20-course tasting menu that deconstructs and reimagines Indian flavours using avant-garde techniques. Located in the St. Regis Garden on The Palm, this is one of the hardest reservations in the city.
A Michelin-starred contemporary Chinese restaurant inside Atlantis The Palm offering stunning sea views alongside exquisite dim sum, Peking duck, and wok-fired specialities. The dramatic interior design matches the quality of the food.
The Dubai outpost of Heston Blumenthal's celebrated concept at Atlantis The Royal offers historically inspired British cuisine cooked with extraordinary precision. Winner of the Time Out Dubai Award 2024 for best restaurant.
The iconic Nobu brand has a stunning home at Atlantis The Palm with theatrical interiors and the beloved fusion cuisine that made Nobu a global institution. The black cod miso and yellowtail jalapeno are non-negotiable orders.
The legendary Venice institution has a spectacular outpost in DIFC serving authentic Venetian cuisine in a glamorous setting. The risotto, handmade pasta, and carpaccio are prepared to the same exacting standards as the original Harry's Bar.
Opened in 2024 at The Lana – Dorchester Collection, Jara brings Spanish Basque haute cuisine to Business Bay with an elegant terrace overlooking the Creek. The chef's tasting menu showcases premium Spanish ingredients with refined technique.
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Dubai has world-class public transport anchored by a modern metro system, supplemented by buses, trams, water taxis, and ride-hailing apps. The Nol Card is a single reloadable smart card that works across all RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) services.
Daily spend by tier in AED, broken out by category.
| Category | Budget | Mid-range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accommodation | $35 | $110 | $420 |
| Food (per day) | $18 | $50 | $130 |
| Transportation | $8 | $18 | $55 |
| Activities | $14 | $22 | $45 |
| Daily total | $75 | $200 | $650 |
Best time Shoulder Worth avoiding
Average daytime temperature in °C. Figures are for Dubai.
Dubai is one of the world's safest cities — violent crime is extremely rare and petty crime is uncommon. However, common sense precautions always apply.
Carry a water bottle and apply SPF 50+ sunscreen when outdoors from April to October. Summer heat (40-45°C) poses a genuine health risk including heat stroke.
Public intoxication is illegal in Dubai. Alcohol may only be consumed within licensed hotel venues, designated bars, and private spaces.
Dress modestly outside of beach, resort, and pool areas. Cover shoulders and knees in shopping malls, souks, and public streets.
Public displays of affection between unmarried couples are frowned upon and can attract police attention. Hold hands but avoid kissing in public.
Photography of government buildings, military installations, palaces, and some bridges is prohibited. Always ask permission before photographing local people.
Jaywalking is illegal and carries on-the-spot fines. Always use pedestrian crossings and obey traffic signals.
Only use licensed RTA cream taxis or verified ride-hailing apps (Careem/Uber). Never get into an unmarked vehicle.
Keep copies of your passport and travel insurance documents in a separate bag from your originals.
During Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is illegal and can result in detention. This applies to non-Muslims as well.
Possession or use of illegal drugs carries severe penalties including lengthy prison sentences and deportation. This includes CBD products and some medications — check the UAEDT drug list before travelling.
Swearing, using rude gestures, or showing anger in public — including on social media directed at UAE institutions — can result in arrest and prosecution.
Car rental drivers should note that speeding penalties are severe and speed cameras are ubiquitous. The legal alcohol limit for driving is zero.
Women can travel alone safely in Dubai. Use metro women-only carriages, solo-female taxis (pink taxis), and well-lit areas at night for maximum comfort.
Keep emergency contacts including the Dubai Police Tourist Support number (800-DUBAI) saved on your phone.
Dubai is consistently ranked among the world's safest cities for tourists, with extremely low rates of crime across all categories. The main risks for visitors are heat-related illness in summer, cultural legal infractions, and road traffic accidents. Emergency services: police at 999, medical at 998.
The best time to visit Dubai is November to March. Dubai has a hot desert climate (Köppen BWh) with two seasons: a warm, pleasant winter (November-March) and a brutally hot, humid summer (May-September). Rainfall is very rare, averaging just 75 mm per
Entry requirements follow United Arab Emirates rules. Citizens of over 50 countries including USA, UK, EU, Australia and Canada receive a free 30-day visa on arrival, extendable to 90 days. GCC nationals may enter without a visa. Check UAE federal visa requirements before travel. Requirements vary by nationality, so check with your nearest embassy or the official immigration website before traveling.
The currency in Dubai is the UAE Dirham (AED). ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Credit cards are accepted at most hotels and restaurants, but carry cash for markets and smaller establishments.
The main language(s) spoken in Dubai: Arabic, English. In tourist areas, English is generally understood. Learning a few basic phrases in the local language is appreciated by locals.
The top attractions in Dubai include Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah, Museum of the Future, and Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Each offers a unique experience, from historic landmarks to natural wonders.
The cities below have their own guides — hotels, attractions and where to eat, in depth.
