StayShort’s Top Tips for Your First Visit to Dubai

1  Reach New Heights

If there’s only one place you can visit while in Dubai, make it the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Step out onto the world’s highest observation deck on the 124th floor, perched 555m high, and take in incomparable views. Admire the desert sands, sparkling coastline, and ultra-modern towers that capture Dubai’s journey from desert dwelling to modern metropolis. For a thrilling experience, visit Sky Views Dubai on floors 52 and 53 of the twin Address Sky View hotel. It features an exclusive observatory with a 46m glass floor, a fun glass slide, and a hands-free walk along a tower edge over 219m above the ground. Sunset timings are especially popular, offering a photo opportunity you can’t miss.

Tip for first-time visitors: Book your tickets to Burj Khalifa’s At The Top online beforehand to skip the queues.

2  Shop, Snack, and Skate

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise with malls in almost every neighbourhood. For the ultimate retail therapy, spend a day at Dubai Mall. From luxury to high street brands, jewellery stores, home decor, electronics, and more, this destination has it all. After shopping, enjoy skating at the mall’s indoor ice rink or visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Watch The Dubai Fountain in action while enjoying a snack at one of the many dining outlets. If you’re on Palm Jumeirah, head to Nakheel Mall for more shopping, followed by an inventive Indian dinner at Trésind Studio. The mall also provides access to The View at The Palm, an observation deck at the top of The Palm Tower, offering unmatched vistas of the archipelago from 240m above sea level.

Tip for first-time visitors: Dubai Mall offers a free ‘shop and drop’ service, so you can shop with ease.

3  Explore Dubai’s Heritage

Beyond the record-breaking sights, a visit to Dubai’s historical treasures, museums, and heritage areas is a must. Explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood to see traditional architecture and shop for authentic souvenirs at nearby souks. Dubai’s Spice Souk is a colourful, aromatic, and vibrant experience, while the nearby Gold Souk is one of the oldest and most fascinating markets for purchasing jewellery and gemstones. Unlike stores in malls, these souks offer more traditional wares – just make sure to haggle for the best prices. You’ll also find art galleries and cafes in the area, including the cosy XVA Art Hotel with 14 unique rooms showcasing regional architectural and cultural motifs.

Tip for first-time visitors: Bargaining is expected at souks, so don’t be shy to negotiate!.

4  Travel Like a Local

Dubai is easy to navigate with multiple transportation options. Ride the Dubai Metro, which conveniently stops at the city’s top shopping and leisure destinations, including Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and Dubai Marina. There’s also a tram that goes along Dubai Marina and beyond, and a dedicated monorail on Palm Jumeirah. For something different, take a scenic evening commute to Dubai Festival City aboard a sleek water taxi, or enjoy a traditional abra boat ride across Dubai Creek for just AED1.

Tip for first-time visitors: Get a Nol card, which works across Dubai’s public transport system.

5  Indulge in Unique Experiences

When in Dubai, a superlative experience always awaits. Adventure enthusiasts can sign up for the thrill of a lifetime by booking a skydiving experience at Skydive Dubai or riding the world’s longest urban zipline, XLine Dubai Marina. If you’re looking for next-generation science, the Museum of the Future is one of Dubai’s most famous landmarks that explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using technology and innovation. For the more leisure-inclined, charter a yacht and go deep sea fishing while admiring the city skyline from a different perspective, or take the plunge at the world’s deepest swimming pool for diving, Deep Dive Dubai. And if anyone asks about your trip to the desert, don’t forget to tell them about your time on the snow-covered slopes of Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort in the region.

Tip for first-time visitors: An early morning hot air balloon ride over the desert with Balloon Adventures is a must-try experience.

6  Gain Insight into Local Customs

Dubai is a welcoming city that is home to many different cultures, but it’s best to be mindful of local traditions. Dress modestly in public spaces such as malls and especially while visiting historical and religious areas. If you’re keen to learn more about the Emirati way of life, stop by the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), where helpful guides can explain the nation’s rich customs.

Tip for first-time visitors: English is widely spoken, so you don’t need to worry about asking for directions or recommendations. However, it’s always polite to try a few Arabic phrases.

7  Embark on a Desert Safari

No trip to Dubai is complete without experiencing the desert. Book a desert safari to enjoy dune bashing, camel riding, and a traditional Bedouin camp experience. Many tours also include a barbecue dinner and cultural performances, making it a memorable evening under the stars.

Tip for first-time visitors: Opt for a safari that includes a sunset view for a truly magical experience.