top of page button
Dubai Economy and Tourism

 Dubai has transformed from a humble fishing village to one of the most cosmopolitan and innovative cities in the world today. Tracing its origins back to 3,000 BC, Dubai's inhabitants made their livelihood from fishing, pearl diving, boat building and sea trading, before the discovery of oil in the late 1960s. In 1971, Dubai joined its neighbours to form the United Arab Emirates, safeguarding the area's prosperity.

Dubai Landscape from Al seef Dubai Economy and Tourism

Top Attractions

Dubai is a city that must be seen to be believed. Record-breaking architecture stands alongside traditional quarters, while man-made islands jut out of the coastline. Check out the top places to tick off your sightseeing list when you’re in town.

DET/Dubai Tourism

Burj Khalifa

DET/Dubai Tourism

The View at The Palm

Sky Views Dubai/Dubai Tourism

Sky Views Dubai

Dubai Harbour/Dubai Tourism

Dubai Harbour

DET/Dubai Tourism

Museum of the Future

Deep Dive Dubai/Dubai Tourism

Deep Dive Dubai

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library/Dubai Tourism

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

DET/Dubai Tourism

Dubai Mall

DET/Dubai Tourism

Madame Tussauds Dubai

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Historical District

DET/Dubai Tourism

Palm Jumeirah

Dubai Parks and Resorts/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Parks & Resorts

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Madinat Jumeirah

Dubai Economy and Tourism

The Dubai Fountain

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Bluewaters Island

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Ski Dubai

Dubai Economy and Tourism

City Walk

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Etihad Museum

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Jumeirah Mosque

Atlantis/Dubai Economy and Tourism

The Lost Chambers Aquarium

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Burj Al Arab

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Water Canal

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Creek

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Frame

Al Fahidi Souk DET/Dubai Tourism

Dubai's Neighbourhoods

Wondering where to find the best restaurants, family-friendly activities or hottest art galleries? Here's a handy guide to the Dubai’s hottest neighbourhoods, packed with plenty to suit all travellers. Add these easy-to-explore districts to your Dubai holiday itinerary and experience the city like a local.

DET/Dubai Tourism

Downtown Dubai & Sheikh Zayed Road

DET/Dubai Tourism

Old Dubai

Getty Image/Dubai Tourism

Business Bay & Dubai Canal

DET/Dubai Tourism

Dubai Design District

DET/Dubai Tourism

Palm Jumeirah

DET/Dubai Tourism

Al Quoz

DET/Dubai Tourism

Dubai Marina

Getty images/Dubai Tourism

Jumeirah Lakes Towers

Family Pool DET/Dubai Tourism

Beaches & Pools

Dubai is one of the few places to enjoy a beach vacation within a thriving city. Experience a holiday Dubai-style, combining high-energy city action with the beauty of the Arabian Gulf. With a vibrant atmosphere and beachside shopping scene, luxury resorts and watersports, Dubai offers the best of the city and the sea. Kite Beach, La Mer and The Beach next to JBR are popular seaside spots where you can take in the waves after a leisurely stroll or jog along the water. Alternatively, Dubai's hotels offer amazing pool experiences, including infinity pools, jacuzzis, water play areas for kids, and much more.

DET/Dubai Tourism

JBR Beach

DET/Dubai Tourism

Kite Beach

DET/Dubai Tourism

Beach Clubs

DET/Dubai Tourism

Beachside Dining

DET/Dubai Tourism

Watersports

DET/Dubai Tourism

Family Beach Clubs

DET/Dubai Tourism

Beachside Cafes

DET/Dubai Tourism

La Mer

DET/Dubai Tourism

Palm West Beach

AURA Skypool/Dubai Tourism

AURA Skypool

X-line X Dubai/Dubai Tourism

Adventure

With year-round sun and a dramatic combination of both the desert and beach, Dubai is the perfect setting to be swept away by high-adrenaline activities. Rocket across the Arabian Gulf in a speedboat or roar along the circuit in a race car, skydive over Palm Jumeirah, ski around the World Islands, paddleboard along the coast or swim with dolphins and sharks, explore the depths of the open waters, or go diving in the deepest pool in the world. You can even leave the city and try dune driving in the desert or soar above the sand in a hot air balloon. Fasten your seatbelt, harness or helmet — it’s going to be an exciting ride.

Ian Harpe/Dubai Tourism

Buggy Safaris

Ski Dive/Dubai Tourism

Extreme Fun

DET/Dubai Tourism

Flyboarding

DET/Dubai Tourism

Jet-Ski

DET/Dubai Tourism

Quad Biking

DET/Dubai Tourism

Sandboarding

DET/Dubai Tourism

Camping

Dubai Safari/Dubai Tourism

Dubai Safari

DET/Dubai Tourism

Hot Air Balloon

Ian Harper/Dubai Tourism

Hatta Wadi Hub

Dubai Desert Safari Dubai Economy and Tourism

The Desert

Safaris, sunsets and stargazing.

When it comes to Dubai's majestic desert, visitors have many options to discover its beautiful landscape. Beyond the popular off-roading or desert safaris, there’s much to do amid the dunes. Whether you're taking in some history with a traditional Bedouin meal, cycling through Al Qudra or watching for wildlife, don't miss the opportunity to experience the desert. Visit a resort or conservation reserve, or simply watch the sunset before some stargazing.

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Desert Safaris

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Desert Hotels

Dubai Tourism

Desert Activities

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Al Marmoom

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Desert Dining

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Desert Conservation

The Dubai Mall - Shopping Dubai Economy and Tourism

Shopping

Between Dubai’s grandiose malls including The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates to traditional souks such as the Gold Souk and Perfume Souk, you’re practically guaranteed to find a souvenir to treasure from your holiday to Dubai. Plus, with massive citywide shopping celebrations like Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) and Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), you could snag the deal of a lifetime during your visit to this global shopping destination.

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Malls

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Souks

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Beachside Shopping

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Luxury Shopping

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Boutiques

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Markets

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Homegrown Labels

Tea Time at Arabian Tea House Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dining

There’s nothing the people of Dubai love more than to dress up and dine out. You can choose from a glittering array of celebrity restaurants and a huge variety of Middle Eastern food, plenty of them family-friendly and almost all in Instagram-worthy locations.

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Emirati Cuisine

STK/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Brunch

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Cafes & Bakeries

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Fine Dining

Atlantis Resorts/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Celebrity Chefs

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Kid-Friendly Restaurants

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Beachside Dining

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Outdoor Dining

XVA Café/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Vegan & Healthy Eating

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Street Food

Al Maha Resort/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Experiential Dining

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Business Restaurants

BOCA/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Private Dining

Dragon coaster at Legoland Legoland/Dubai Parks and Resorts/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Parks & Entertainment

With big ambitions and the expertise to make even the wildest dreams a reality, Dubai is becoming the most exciting adventure playground in the world. Whether it's family fun or hair-raising thrills you're after, there are laughs in store for all.

Dubai Economy and Tourism

IMG Worlds of Adventure

Legoland/Dubai Parks and Resorts/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Legoland Dubai

Dubai Wild Wadi Waterpark/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Wild Wadi Waterpark

Motiongate Dubai/Dubai Parks and Resorts/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Motiongate Dubai

Dubai Economy and Tourism

The Green Planet

Global Village/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Global Village

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Miracle Garden

Legoland Water Park/Dubai Parks and Resorts/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Legoland Water Park

Atlantis The Palm/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Aquaventure Waterpark

Al Shindagha Museum Dubai Economy and Tourism

Arts & Culture

With Dubai Opera, the arts district Al Quoz and the discovery of relics from the Iron Age, Dubai is fast evolving into a cultural hotspot. The city’s highlights range from the ancient past to stark modernity, and there is no better time to see its evolution than now.

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Museums

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Art Galleries

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Historical Neighbourhood

La Perle/Dubai Economy and Tourism

La Perle

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Mosques

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Infinity des Lumières

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Theatre of Digital Art

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Opera

Cycling at Meydan Dubai Economy and Tourism

Sports

Dubai’s world-class tennis courts, golf courses and sports clubs are here to help you achieve your personal best. Whether you're looking to tee off at an iconic golf course or challenge friends to a game of football, there's plenty to pursue. Plus, the fun carries on throughout the year with cool indoor facilities hosting all the action during the summer months.

Dubai Golf/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Golf

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Horse & Camel Racing

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Running

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Cycling

Dubai Autodrome/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Motorsports & Offroading

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Tennis & Squash

Getty/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Cricket

Getty/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Football

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Watersports

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Hiking around Hatta

Women in Spa Dubai Economy and Tourism

Spas & Relaxation

There are literally hundreds of spas in all shapes and sizes, from five-star options like the Talise Ottoman Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray to internationally-acclaimed centres and neighbourhood wellness spots. Common to all are great service and value.

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Spas

Getty/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Beauty Salons

One&Only Royal Mirage Dubai/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Hammams

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Arabian Beauty

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Yoga

Hatta Nature Dubai Economy and Tourism

Nature

Take a break from the stunning Dubai skyline and explore the natural wonders that make the city come alive. There are enormous green spaces with picturesque lakes and lawns right in the heart of the emirate. Discover on your own, or take advantage of tour guides who specialise in the region’s diverse flora and fauna.

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Parks

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Ecotourism

Jumeirah Group/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Animal Experiences

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Desert Wildlife

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Horse Riding

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Birds

Getty/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Marine Life

Firework at Dubai Festival City Dubai Economy and Tourism

What's On

Dubai has it all: from world-class performances and revered art exhibitions to award-winning fairs and concerts by global superstars.

Dubai Rugby 7s/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Rugby 7s

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Shopping Festival

Emirates LitFest/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature

Andrew Watkins/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai World Cup

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Fitness Challenge

Jumeirah Group/Dubai Economy and Tourism

New Year's Eve

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championship

Maksym Poriechkin/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai International Boat Show

Slync-io/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Desert Classic

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Food Festival

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Art Dubai

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Sikka Art & Design Festival

World Art Dubai/Dubai Economy and Tourism

World Art Dubai

Dubai International Marine Club/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Al Gaffal Long Distance Race

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Ramadan

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Eid in Dubai

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dubai Summer Surprises

Night Club Dubai Economy and Tourism

Nightlife

Get ready for a night to remember in Dubai. The city boasts rooftop lounges with skyscraper views, iconic venues for a glamorous evening with friends and chic speakeasies that combine the best in food, music and entertainment.

Dubai Economy and Tourism

Shopping

Emaar/Burj Khalifa/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Lounges

Getty/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Live Music

Getty Images/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Cinema

Billionaire Dubai/Dubai Economy and Tourism

Dynamic Nightspots

Family with Atlantis Dubai Economy and Tourism

Tourist Information

Dubai International Airport (DXB)

Dubai International (DXB) is located four kilometres (2.5 miles) southeast of Dubai. One of the world's busiest travel hubs, Dubai's primary airport boasts three sprawling terminals and two huge runways that operate around the clock, serving both passenger and cargo planes. Transportation from the airport is possible by taxi, bus or metro.

Address:

Email:

Phone:

Website: www.dubaiairports.ae

More Information:

Currency

The currency in Dubai is the Dirham (AED or Arab Emirate Dirham). One dirham is divided into 100 fils and has been pegged to the US dollar since the end of 1997.

US$1 = AED3.6725

Address:

Email:

Phone:

Website:

More Information:

Getting Around

Upon arriving at Dubai International Airport, you're connected to every major neighbourhood in the city via the Dubai Metro. Most of the city's main attractions, including The Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa and Dubai Marina can be reached directly via the metro or tram. Simply purchase a prepaid Nol card from any metro station, to use on the metro, tram and buses. The city's ubiquitous yellow and red topped taxis are available streetside. For those with data services, a cab from Uber, or the local ride-hailing equivalent Careem, is just a tap away.

Address:

Email:

Phone:

Website: www.visitdubai.com/en/plan-your-trip/getting-to-and-around-dubai

More Information:

Climate

Dubai enjoys a warm climate year-round. The winter months from October through to April are the coolest, with temperatures ranging from around 20 degrees centigrade to the mid-30s. During the months of May through September, the weather heats up significantly, with average temperatures ranging from high-30s to mid-40s. Luckily, Dubai offers plenty of attractions for all seasons.

Address:

Email:

Phone:

Website:

More Information: