Dubai

Skyscrapers, desert and luxury on every level.

United Arab Emirates · Middle East ·

19.5M international visitors (2025)

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Dubai is record-breaking towers, beach resorts and desert dunes a short drive away.

Top attractions in Dubai

Burj KhalifaBook a sunset slot for the observation deck.
Desert safariDune drive, camel ride and dinner under the stars.
Old DubaiAbra boat across the Creek to the gold and spice souks.
Dubai Mall and fountain showShows every evening at the tower's base.
BeachesJBR and Kite Beach are free and lively.
Museum of the FutureStriking building and exhibits; timed tickets.

Where to stay

Downtown for sights; Dubai Marina or JBR for the beach.

LuxuryBurj Al ArabJumeirah Beach

Mid-rangeAddress DowntownNext to Burj Khalifa

ValueRove DowntownDowntown

Get hotel rates for Dubai

Getting there and around

From the airport. Dubai International (DXB): Metro Red Line to Downtown in about 30 min; taxis at the terminal. Some airlines use Al Maktoum (DWC).

In the city. Metro plus taxis or ride-hailing. Distances are long; it isn't a walking city in summer.

Train and bus tips

Metro Red and Green lines; buy a Nol card.
Taxis and ride-hailing are affordable.
Intercity bus to Abu Dhabi about 2 hours.
Dubai Tram serves the Marina and JBR.

Events, nightlife and sports

Dec–JanDubai Shopping FestivalSales, concerts and nightly fireworks.

Dec 31New Year's Eve at Burj KhalifaOne of the world's biggest fireworks shows.

MarchArt DubaiLeading art fair of the region.

Oct–AprilGlobal VillagePavilions, food and shows from around the world.

Nightlife and parties. Beach clubs, rooftop lounges and superclubs in hotels; alcohol only in licensed venues.

Sports. Dubai World Cup horse race (March), Dubai Tennis Championships (February), DP World Tour Championship golf (November).

Dates change every year; check official sites before booking. The concierge can get tickets.

What to eat

ShawarmaEmirati machboosCamel-milk chocolateBrunch at a beach hotelKarak tea

Local tours in R Travel

Our picks for Dubai, plus more options once you search.

Coming soonEvening desert safari6 hours

Dune drive, camel ride, sandboarding and dinner at a desert camp.

4x4 dune bashing
Sunset photo stop
BBQ dinner and show

Coming soonAbu Dhabi day tripFull day

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Grand Mosque visit
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Private driver

Coming soonBurj Khalifa at sunset2 hours

Timed sunset entry to the observation decks, then the fountain show.

Levels 124–125
Sunset slot
Dubai Fountain

Book a tour in Dubai

Practical info

When to go

November–March, when days are warm, not scorching.

Money

UAE dirham (AED)

Language

Arabic; English widely spoken

Visa (US passport holders)

No visa needed. Free visa on arrival for up to 30 days for US passport holders, extendable.

R Travel tip

Dress modestly in malls and older districts.

Entry rules shown are for US passport holders and change often — always confirm with the destination's embassy or your airline before booking. Other nationalities should check separately.

Good to know

Weekend is Saturday–Sunday.
Dress modestly outside beaches and resorts.
Summer (June–September) often tops 105°F.

Opening hours, prices, event dates and entry rules change. Check official sites before you go. Written by the R Travel team.