01Burj Khalifa
The world's tallest building at 828 metres. Ride to the observation deck on level 124 for a sunset view over Downtown, the coast and the desert beyond.
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Skyscrapers, gold souks and red dunes at sunset
Dubai
One morning you're skidding down red dunes in a Land Cruiser; that evening you're 124 floors up watching the fountains dance below the world's tallest building. In between there are wooden abras crossing the creek to the gold souk, air-conditioned malls the size of towns, and beaches that stay warm all winter.
Best timeNovember to March, when daytime highs settle in the mid-20s and desert evenings turn cool enough for an outdoor dinner
Ideal duration5-7 days
Great forHoneymooners, families and first-time international travellers
Trip highlights
Sunset from Burj KhalifaDune bashing in the desertDubai Fountain light showDhow cruise past Marina towersAbra ride to the souks
Top places in Dubai
01
02Palm Jumeirah
The palm-shaped island built out into the Gulf, crowned by Atlantis The Palm. Come for Aquaventure's waterslides, the aquarium, and beach clubs facing the skyline.
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03Burj Al Arab
Dubai's sail-shaped hotel, built on its own island off Jumeirah Beach. The classic free view is from the public beach at Umm Suqeim, best in late afternoon.
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04Dubai Desert Safari
Afternoon 4x4 dune bashing over the red sands outside the city, then sandboarding, a camel ride and dinner at a Bedouin-style camp under the stars.
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05Dubai Marina
A canal district of glass towers where dhows and speedboats share the water. Stroll the Marina Walk promenade at dusk, then take a dinner cruise past the lit-up skyline.
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