Dubai United Arab Emirates

Overview

Dubai is a city where the desert meets the Gulf coast, known for its skyscrapers and old trading quarters. Beside the Burj Khalifa and giant malls, traditional souks and abra rides still thrive along Dubai Creek. A short drive takes you to the desert and the Hajar Mountains.

Getting around

The Metro (Red and Green lines), tram, buses and Dubai Creek abras all work with a Nol card. Distances are long, so taxis and ride-hailing apps are common, and walking outdoors is hard in summer.

Where to stay

• Al Fahidi (Bur Dubai) – The historic core of the city, with old wind-tower houses, museums and cafés.
• Deira – A lively trading district with the gold and spice souks, a fish market and the Creek waterfront.
• Downtown Dubai – The modern centre with the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain.
• Jumeirah – A coastal strip of beaches, a mosque and boutique cafés.
• Dubai Marina – A hub for leisure and water sports with towers, a yacht harbour and JBR beach.

Guide topics

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  Food & Drink

  Dubai's cuisine blends Emirati tradition with Indian, Iranian and Levantine flavours. You will find cheap, authentic meals in the old quarters and polished dining in the modern districts.

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  Museums

  Dubai's museums tell the story of a fishing village turned global metropolis. History dominates the old quarters, while contemporary art and future-focused exhibitions lead in the new districts.

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  Hiking

  Hiking in Dubai is mostly easy routes along the coast, in parks and in wetlands, while real mountain trails lie outside the city in the Hajar Mountains. In the hot months start at dawn and carry plenty of water.

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  Extreme Sports

  Dubai offers adrenaline in every setting, from the sky to the desert and the sea. In summer the extreme heat pushes most activities to the early morning or indoors.

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  Culture

  Dubai's culture grows from Bedouin and seafaring traditions, a merchant-city identity and a multinational population. You can see living traditions in the old quarters and festivals and shows in the new districts.