From the tallest building in the world to the glitziest malls, Dubai certainly knows how to do ‘over the top’. But that’s not to say it’s all about glamour, with tradition, history and the rolling desert adding a large dash of the exotic to this ever-changing travel destination. Let’s check out places to visit in Dubai.

Burj Khalifa

Don’t forget your camera when you visit the Burj Khalifia, though if you’re up close you’ll have to crane your neck. Classified as ‘mega tall’ the world’s highest skyscraper is also home to the fastest lift on the globe. This is how you’ll reach the viewing area, for unbelievable panoramas over the beach and city.

The best times to go are sunset and after dark, to see a kaleidoscope of twinkling lights. Obviously, if you’re scared of heights this might just be the most terrifying event of your life.

Dubai Creek

Switch from science fiction modern architecture to tradition in an instant, with an abra ride on Dubai Creek. You can buy a one-way ticket to the other side and Dubai’s spice souk, from Bur Dubai Abra Station.

Or, hire one of the traditional boats for an hour and immerse in the original centre of commerce, from the 1960s. Locals still zoom up and down in the name of cargo trade and, if you go at sunset, you’ll hear the evening call to prayer echoing across the sparkling water.

Dubai Parks

You could be forgiven for thinking Dubai is void of green spaces, with the skyline backing on to harsh deserts. However, the city offers serene spots throughout, via numerous public parks perfect for picnics and barbeques.

You’ll share sprawling lawns with the multicultural locals at Safa Park, with waterfalls, rolling hills and open spaces for a spot of cricket. Mushrif Park is a great choice for families, with lush woodlands and a zoo.

Burj Al Arab

If you’ve ever wanted to experience a taste of true luxury, the 7-star Burj Al Arab is where you’ll find it. The building’s inspiring design, after a billowing sail, is one of the most iconic of the city’s skyline and it soars an incredible 321 metres.

Facilities include arriving by helicopter, private butler service, a decadent spa, gourmet restaurants and suites to rival a king’s chamber. Can’t quite afford the opulence? Never fear, you’ll still have plenty of opportunities for a selfie with the building, from around town.

Ski Dubai

A visit to the desert wouldn’t be complete without hitting the slopes to snow ski, right? The Mall of Emirates lets you do just that, with Ski Dubai offering a large slope, equipment hire, clothes and even lessons so you’ll know what you’re doing next time.

Meet and play with snow penguins, try snowboarding and tobogganing, roll down the Giant Ball run, jump a 10 foot ramp, zip through tube slides and relax on the chairlift. After all the action, you get to sip on hot chocolate at minus 4 degrees in the cafe.

Dubai Marina

Back to the glamour and Dubai Marina offers it in lashings. Naturally, the manmade marina is the world’s largest and this is the place to see and be seen, at chic cafes, bars, shops and restaurants.

Next door, you’ll find Jumeirah Beach Residence walk, a vibrant boulevard with fashion, handicrafts and boutiques galore. There’s also the Convent Garden Market, for jewellery, homewares and street entertainers.

Desert Safari

Launch into the Bedouin way of life, on a desert safari. First, you’ll traverse the golden dunes with a 4×4 drive, to arrive at a colourful Bedouin campsite. Most tours offer entertainment, traditional food such as barbecued shawarma and a chance to try a shisha pipe.

While there, hop on a camel for a leisurely trek, or thrill your inner dare devil with a quad bike ride. The best is yet to come however, as night falls and the stars take centre stage.

Wild Wadi Water Park

Dubai excursions for kids don’t get much better than Wild Wadi Water Park. The watery wonderland offers rides for all ages and relaxing options too – so you can sit back and watch the fun.

In terms of adrenalin, jump on the Wipeout and Riptide Flowriders, or careen through Tantrum Ally and Burj Surj. The littlies have their very own sections, with racing slides and water guns. On a hot Dubai day, you probably won’t mind the crowds.

Dubai Shopping

In terms of places to visit in Dubai, shopping malls rank high. Retail therapy is among the best in the world, with about 96 malls that’ll empty your wallet and souks to recoup, with bargains.

The Dubai Mall is the biggest in the world, however the Dubai Outlet Mall offers fantastic discounts. Mall of the Emirates has all the designer options you could desire and Mercato Mall looks like a quaint, Italian village.

Bastakiya Quarter

Escape the modern world, with a trip to the Bastakiya Quarter. The government conservation area is a nineteenth century merchant town, with narrow alleyways, wind towers, charming squares, galleries, bookshops and tea houses. If you get lost in the midst of history, just look up to see the skyscrapers looming over the tiny slice of heritage – a perfect example of places to visit in Dubai.

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