From a small fishing village established in the 18th century to one of the richest, most cosmopolitan cities in the world, Dubai’s growth – especially through the 21st century – has been genuinely extraordinary. Here’s why it’s worth visiting, and what you should know before you go.
A quick list of the headline reasons:
- One of the most striking skylines anywhere in the world
- Some of the largest shopping malls on the planet
- The world’s tallest building
- Indoor skiing – yes, really, despite the desert setting
- A long, genuinely beautiful coastline
- Supercars everywhere, including in the police fleet
What Makes Dubai So Special
Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa, also known as Burj Dubai, is the tallest building ever constructed, standing 829.8 metres (2,722 ft) tall – genuinely difficult to grasp the scale of in person.
A Major Global Airport Hub
Dubai International is one of the busiest airports in the world and the Middle East’s largest hub, with daily flights connecting to all seven continents.
Mega Malls
The Dubai Mall, right next to the Burj Khalifa, is one of the largest shopping malls in the world by total area, complete with an indoor aquarium and an Olympic-size ice rink. It’s far from the only major mall in the city, either.
Go Skiing in the Desert
Ski Dubai, inside the Mall of the Emirates, offers a genuine indoor ski slope – artificial snow, real skiing – on a slope roughly 85m high covering about 22,500 square metres.
The Palm Islands
Palm Jumeirah, construction of which began in 2001, is the world’s largest artificial island and is genuinely visible from space in its palm-tree shape.
Supercars
Dubai’s supercar culture is genuinely visible on the street – even Dubai Police operates a fleet that includes Lamborghinis, Ferraris, and a Bugatti.
The Dubai Fountain
The world’s largest choreographed fountain system, right at the base of the Burj Khalifa.
The Desert
Just outside the city, the desert offers sunrise tours, quad biking, and camel rides – a genuinely different side of Dubai from the skyline.
Visa Requirements for Dubai (UAE)
The UAE has one of the more traveler-friendly visa systems in the region. Citizens of roughly 90 countries get visa-free entry or a visa on arrival, with the exact length depending on nationality: many Western nationalities (including the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia) get a free 30 or 90-day visa stamped on arrival, no advance paperwork required. Other nationalities can arrange an e-visa in advance through an airline, hotel, or travel agency. Always check current requirements for your specific nationality before you fly, since terms vary and occasionally change.
What You Should Know Before Visiting Dubai
- Alcohol – Legal but regulated; drink in licensed venues (hotels, bars, clubs) rather than in public.
- Photos – Avoid photographing strangers or government buildings without permission.
- Book ahead – Dubai is genuinely one of the most-visited cities in the world; book accommodation well in advance, especially in peak season.
- Best time to visit – October through April. Dubai really only has two seasons – hot, and considerably hotter – and the cooler months are far more comfortable for outdoor activities.
How Much Does It Cost to Visit Dubai?
Dubai is not a budget destination. As a rough guide, expect to spend around $200 per day per person, with costs scaling up quickly depending on activities and hotel choice – a couple’s trip can easily run into the thousands. Budget at least $1,000 if you’re planning a proper visit.
Is It Safe to Visit Dubai?
Yes – Dubai is widely considered one of the safer major cities in the world for tourists. The main thing to be aware of is that local laws are notably stricter than in much of the West (covering everything from public behavior to drugs and certain medications) – know the rules before you go, rather than assuming Western norms apply.
Where to Stay in Dubai
Waldorf Astoria Dubai International Financial Centre
A genuinely top-rated hotel in the DIFC district – not cheap, but well worth it for a special stay.
- Price: From around €404+ per night
- Rating: 9.7/10
Address Dubai Marina
Genuinely memorable Marina views at a relatively accessible price point.
- Price: From around €245+ per night
- Rating: 9.2/10
Jumeirah Emirates Towers
Two striking skyscrapers close to the Dubai Mall.
- Price: From around €133+ per night
- Rating: 9.2/10
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira Dubai
Our top pick for a genuine splurge – exceptional views and service at a correspondingly high price.
- Price: From around €705+ per night
- Rating: 9.3/10
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to visit Dubai?
Expect to spend around $200 per day per person as a baseline, scaling up quickly depending on activities and hotel choice.
Do I need a visa for Dubai?
It depends on your nationality – around 90 countries get free visa-on-arrival entry (30 or 90 days), while others need to arrange an e-visa in advance. Check current requirements for your passport before flying.
Why should you visit Dubai?
The Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, indoor desert skiing, and the Palm Islands are just a few of the reasons – it’s a city built around doing things at a scale found almost nowhere else.
Is smoking legal in Dubai?
Yes, in designated areas – many cafes, shisha lounges, and outdoor spaces permit smoking, though it’s restricted in enclosed public buildings.
What is the Burj Khalifa?
The tallest building in the world, standing 829.8 metres tall in the heart of Dubai.
Conclusion
Dubai isn’t cheap, but it earns its reputation as a once-in-a-lifetime destination – skiing in the desert, shopping in the world’s largest malls, the artificial Palm Islands, and a genuinely unmatched skyline are all real, and all worth experiencing at least once.
