Dubai Offers Something for Everyone — How to Navigate the Must-See Destination!

Dubai has become a hotspot in recent years, as it offers something for everyone — whether you're traveling alone, with friends or with kids.

From going shopping to heading to the beach, this city is a must-see destination.

"1833 was a milestone year in Dubai’s history, when Maktoum bin Butti of the Bani Yas tribe led his people to the Shindagha Peninsula at the mouth of Dubai Creek. He settled there and declared the town's independence. From then onwards, Dubai was regarded as an independent settlement, but still primarily a fishing village," Visit Dubai explains, per their website. "Today, even with all the massive changes the emirate has undergone, the Al Maktoum dynasty continues to rule Dubai. Visitors can explore the city’s yesteryears with a walk along the banks of Dubai Creek. An anchor to the emirate’s heritage, the site is a hub of bustling activity with abras and boats gliding along the historic waterways."

As a result, Dubai's culture and arts scene is not to be missed.

To develop a greater understanding of Dubai’s customs and traditions, be sure to visit the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) in Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. Here, visitors can get to know the local culture, its history and its people.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood is a cultural district that immerses visitors in the heritage of Dubai, featuring traditional wind towers, art galleries and museums. The neighborhood dates back to the end of the 19th century and is where Dubai’s first traders settled and built their coral-clad houses. These buildings have been painstakingly restored and are now home to art galleries, boutiques, museums and cafés. Explore the labyrinth of winding pedestrianized lanes and admire what many bill as the real architectural jewels of the city – the wind towers.

Residents and tourists can also explore traditional markets like the Gold Souk, Textile Souk and Spice Souk — marketplaces that offer goods and includes over 350 retailers trading tax-free gold of different carats, designs and weights.

The traditional markets provide a glimpse into the city's trading heritage and offer a unique shopping experience.

There's so much to do in Dubai that anyone's schedule will be packed to the brim!

If you want to go on a little shopping spree, one of the best spots is the Dubai Mall — one of the largest shopping destinations in the world — as it has plenty of dining options, outlets, including Zara, Mango, H&M and Anthropologie and more, in addition to entertainment facilities such the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.

The Mall of the Emirates is home to the Ski Dubai indoor ski slope and snow park.

From high-end dining experiences to street food and markets, there's plenty of options when visiting Dubai. In this year's MICHELIN Guide Dubai, 119 restaurants were featured, including the naming of the city’s first ever MICHELIN three-starred restaurants.

FZN by Björn Frantzén and Trèsind Studio were given three MICHELIN stars. Additionally, several other restaurants have been awarded one or two Michelin stars.

Some of the landmarks include going to the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building at 828m and more than 160 stories, which offers breathtaking views of the city from its observation deck.

Jumeirah Burj Al Arab is located on an artificial island off Jumeirah Beach, and billed as "the world’s only seven-star hotel," while Dubai Creek, a historic waterway that offers traditional dhow cruises and a glimpse into the city’s trading past, should be on everyone's list.

There's many places to relax, unwind and have fun, including Palm Jumeirah, the iconic man-made island boasts a range of luxury hotels, residences and attractions, and Kite Beach, a popular spot for families, offering open spaces and a variety of activities suitable for children and adults alike. Ski Dubai is an indoor ski slope and snow park located in the Mall of the Emirates, providing a unique winter sports experience in the desert, while Dubai Parks and Resorts is home to multiple theme parks including Motiongate, Real Madrid World and LEGOLAND.

Dubai’s museums offer a rich tapestry of cultural experiences that are inspired by the city’s history of trade, pearl diving and Bedouin life. The Al Shindagha Museum guides visitors through the city’s dramatic development over centuries with a state-of-the-art multimedia experience. A museum ticket will also give you entry to Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, the former home of Dubai’s ruling family.

Dubai Miracle Garden is a stunning floral garden with intricate designs and sculptures made entirely of flowers.

Museum of the Future is an innovative museum showcasing futuristic concepts and technologies, while Alserkal Avenue is an arts district in Al Quoz known for its contemporary art galleries and cultural events.

To learn more about Dubai, click here.