There’s a plethora of things to see, do and experience in Dubai! It’s a very spread out city – so keep in mind you’ll need taxis or Ubers (Uber is available and easy to use here) to get around. It’s not a walkable city. I now have firsthand knowledge of why some of the articles say it’s hard to even cross the street in some areas! Let’s just saying getting to our Uber near the Dubai Mall was an adventure. 🙂 These are 5 things my husband and I enjoyed during our stay in Dubai.
Top of Burj Khalifa
At 160 stories it’s the tallest building in the world and a must visit! As we didn’t pre purchase tickets (I highly suggest you do!), we had limited ticket options for our day of entry. There are numerous types of choices… with level the level 154 lounge being the highest point open to visitors. The 124th and 125th stories are accessible via the general admission tickets. We opted for the SKY ticket with access to level 148. It included a fast track line, less crowded viewing areas, and drinks/snacks. Keep in mind they have many days of haze in Dubai and the views may be limited. We were lucky to experience great views – but couldn’t see as far as Palm Island.
Al Seef Neighborhood
For a break from the crowds and busy atmosphere of Dubai – I recommend a visit to this historic neighborhood. Located on Dubai Creek it’s a collision of old and new! It’s the perfect spot for shopping or grabbing a drink (this means a soda, tea or mocktail at restaurants in Dubai). My husband and I really enjoyed our creekside dinner and watching the local ferries called abras.
Dubai Mall
This is the Dubai you imagine – the epitome of over the top! You can do all the shopping for souvenirs and people watching in the world’s biggest mall. Their food court awakens your taste buds, as we had surprisingly tasty house made local wraps here! Outside the mall, don’t miss one of the evening synchronized shows of the Dubai Fountains (the highest choreographed fountains in the world). It also showcases the sky high views of the Burj Khalifa from here.
Miracle Garden
Visiting the Miracle Garden is another welcome escape from the crowds and big buildings of Dubai. It’s an oasis with millions of blooming flowers! Buying tickets at the entrance didn’t take long and it’s also a great family friendly spot. Miracle Garden is only open during the cooler winter months and is home to new displays each season. Even in early December it’s hot – don’t forget your hat and sunscreen!
Palm Tower
Since we arrived via cruise ship and our departure was in the dark – I wanted to see a the famous aerial view of Palm Island. It wasn’t necessary to pre purchase tickets, as even though we were there on a holiday weekend – it wasn’t super busy (I heard sunset tickets need to be bought ahead of time). The views of the famous Burj Al Arab, the Dubai skyline and Palm Island were epic! As so many sites in the Middle East… the entrance to the View at the Palm was through a mall. 😉
Dubai is feast for the senses… at times sensory overload. 😉 It’s a fantastic city; with something for everyone to enjoy.
Until the next adventure – bon voyage!
Kris
