Things to do in Dubai: the must-sees and our tips

In short: Dubai mixes record-breaking skyscrapers and old souks. Go up the Burj Khalifa, wander old Dubai and cross the creek by abra, discover the Museum of the Future, enjoy the Marina and the beach, then treat yourself to a desert trip. Come in winter if you can.

Burj Khalifa and Downtown

The tallest tower in the world, the Burj Khalifa has observation decks that require a booked time slot; sunset is the most sought-after. At its foot, the Dubai Fountain dances to music in the evening, and the Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world, houses a giant aquarium.

Old Dubai and the creek

To see Dubai before the towers:

• the Al Fahidi historic district, its wind-tower houses and museums;
• the creek by abra, a small traditional boat linking the two banks;
• the gold and spice souks, in Deira.

The Museum of the Future and the Dubai Frame

The Museum of the Future, in a spectacular calligraphy-covered building, imagines the world of tomorrow. The Dubai Frame, a huge golden frame, offers a view of old and new Dubai.

The Marina, JBR and Palm Jumeirah

Dubai Marina lines up its towers around a yacht harbour, with a lively promenade. JBR beach, right next to it, is ideal for swimming. Offshore, the man-made Palm Jumeirah island and the view of the Burj Al Arab complete the picture.

The desert

A desert trip is a classic: dunes at sunset, a camp, dinner under the stars. Choose a trip with a well-established operator.

Day trips from Dubai

• Abu Dhabi: the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, all in white marble (covering clothing required), and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Practical tips

• Entry: French citizens enter without a visa for 90 days; other nationalities should check the rules that apply to them.
• Local customs: modest clothing in public places, discretion during Ramadan.
• Getting around: the metro links the main districts, taxis do the rest. The red metro line serves airport Terminals 1 and 3.
• Internet: a travel eSIM avoids roaming charges.

All the tips for the country: Travel in Dubai.

Where to stay in Dubai

Downtown to be at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, the Marina and JBR for the beach and nightlife, old Dubai for authenticity and tighter budgets, Palm Jumeirah for big hotels. Every area is detailed in our guide Where to stay in Dubai.