Updated 16/09/2025
Dubai isn’t called the “City of Gold” for nothing. This place is wild — a mix of sky-high towers, luxury shopping, desert adventures, souks full of bargains, and beaches you won’t want to leave. It’s the kind of holiday where you can eat dinner at the top of the world one night, and ride camels through the desert the next.
Sights Worth Your Selfies
First stop has to be the Burj Khalifa. This monster is the tallest building in the world at 828 metres — basically so high you’ll need two lifts to get up there. Head to the observation deck for insane panoramic views of the city and desert. And yes, there’s a gift shop at the top (souvenirs with altitude).
If you fancy something more traditional, wander into Al Fahidi (Al Bastakiya). Think narrow alleys, old Arabian houses, and museums that show Dubai before all the glitz. The Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort is small but fascinating — you’ll leave knowing how this fishing village turned into the world’s playground.
And then there’s The Palm Jumeirah — yes, that massive palm-shaped island you’ve seen on Instagram. Here it’s all about luxury hotels, posh restaurants, water sports, and beaches. Walk along the crescent, jet ski around the skyline, or just relax like royalty at a resort pool.
For the thrill-seekers, a desert safari is a must. Picture 4×4 dune bashing, holding onto your seat while the driver laughs, then hopping on a camel for a slower ride. As the sun sets, it’s all about BBQ dinners, henna tattoos, stargazing, and pretending you’re in a movie. Red Dunes Safari, Camels & 5* BBQ at Al Khayma camp on Viator
Shoppers — you’ll lose hours at Dubai Mall, one of the biggest in the world. Over 1,200 shops, an ice rink, and an aquarium with 33,000 sea creatures. Basically, if you can’t find it here, it doesn’t exist.
When night falls, Dubai doesn’t sleep. Rooftop bars, beach clubs, and world-class DJs keep the city buzzing. You can sip cocktails with a skyline view, dance till sunrise, or chill by the sea with shisha and good vibes.
Take a break from Dubai and head to Abu Dhabi on the Abu Dhabi Day Trip from Dubai. See the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Emirates Palace and Etihad Towers with all travel included. Feeling luxurious? Set sail on the Dubai Harbour Superyacht Experience and cruise past famous landmarks in pure luxury. Sip drinks, enjoy a live DJ, and tuck into a gourmet meal while soaking up skyline views.
For something magical, try the Dubai Overnight Desert Safari at Al Khayma Camp. Dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, stargazing and sleeping in a Bedouin tent — it’s the full desert experience. Want water instead? Make a splash at Aquaventure Waterpark, the world’s largest. Brave the Leap of Faith slide, float the lazy river, or just chill on the private beach with skyline views.
Step into old Dubai with the Dubai Full Day Tour with Burj Khalifa Entry. Wander Al Bastakiya, cross the creek in an abra, explore souks, and finish high above the city at ‘At the Top’.
Step into tomorrow at the Museum of the Future. Wander immersive exhibits on robotics, AI, space travel, and climate change inside one of Dubai’s most futuristic (and jaw-dropping) buildings. Or go behind the scenes at the Burj Al Arab Tour. Explore luxury suites, sip a golden cappuccino, and admire Dubai’s coast from the 25th floor of this world-famous hotel.
Soak in panoramic views at The View at the Palm. From 240 meters high, admire Palm Jumeirah, the Arabian Gulf, and Dubai’s skyline with an exhibition showcasing its incredible history. Or take dinner to new heights with Dinner in the Sky. Suspended 50 meters above Dubai, enjoy a 3-course meal while gazing at Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and the Burj Al Arab.
Key Details at a Glance
Booking your Dubai holiday with a trusted travel provider makes life so much easier. A package deal means flights, hotel, and often transfers sorted in one go. No hassle, no stress – just check out the latest deals and grab the one that works best for you.
Or check out Icelolly, a comparison site to grab the best deal!
Flights from the UK to Dubai take around 7 hours, depending on where you fly from. Direct flights are super common from London, Manchester, Birmingham and more, so you won’t be stuck with endless layovers.
When you land, Dubai International Airport is only about 15–30 minutes from most hotels in the city, depending on traffic. You can hop in a taxi (cheap and reliable), grab a private transfer, or even book a hotel shuttle.
If you’re staying on the Palm Jumeirah or Marina area, expect closer to 40–50 minutes, but the views on the way are worth it.
Transfers are easy to pre-book with most travel providers – one less thing to stress about when you’re tired after the flight!
Travel Smarter, Not Harder
Transfers: Taxis are everywhere (and cheaper than you’d think), but there’s also the Dubai Metro connecting the airport to key parts of the city. If you’re staying on The Palm, hotel shuttles or private transfers are easiest.
Currency: The Dirham (AED). Cards are widely accepted, but keep some cash for taxis and small shops.
Best time to go: Winter months, December to February, when it’s around 25°C — perfect for sightseeing and the beach. Summer is HOT, like 40°C+ hot, so brace yourself if you go then.
Culture tips: During Ramadan, some restaurants close during the day, so plan ahead. Dress respectfully in public (cover shoulders/knees), but beachwear is fine at resorts.
Day trips: Hop over to Abu Dhabi for the Grand Mosque, or try a super yacht cruise from Dubai Harbour if you’re feeling fancy.
Dubai is like ten holidays in one. Luxury, adventure, beaches, shopping, and a whole lot of wow moments. Whether you’re dune-bashing in the desert, eating dinner with views from the Burj Khalifa, or shopping till your feet hurt at Dubai Mall, this city knows how to impress.
