What Is Dubai Famous For? Top 22 Popular Places & Things in Dubai

Are you looking for activities in Dubai? Besides skyscrapers and shopping centres, there are other Dubai attractions that might surprise you. Moreover, a few famous things in Dubai include various activities, from desert excursions to cultural interactions, beach getaways, and luxurious experiences.

If you are planning a holiday here, you should know that the currency used here is United Arab Emirates Dirham, and as of November, 2022, 1 United Arab Emirates Dirham equals to ₹ 22.20.

If you are asking what is Dubai famous for, here is the comprehensive list you might follow –

1. Palm Jumeirah

One of the biggest artificial islands in the world, Palm Jumeirah is a marvel of human ingenuity. This place is home to a wide variety of upscale hotels, including the Atlantis, The Palm, Waldorf Astoria, Fairmont, One&Only, and Jumeirah Zabeel Saray.

Additionally, the monorail that runs along the 'trunk' and connects to the tram network on the mainland makes it easy to get here. For lunch, you can also visit The Pointe, where the record-breaking Palm Fountain is located.

2. Dubai Fountain

One of the largest choreographed fountain shows in the world, Dubai Fountain, is located at the base of the Burj Khalifa. It has tremendous jet streams that shoot up to 150 metres in the air and move to the beat of the music, creating a majestic view.

You can visit in the evening when a show starts at dusk and continues every 30 minutes until 11 p.m. Also, there are a variety of eateries at The Dubai Mall or Souk Al Bahar, with great locations close to the fountain arena. In addition, these places also allow patrons to dine while catching a glimpse of the performance.

3. Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa, one of the highest structures in the world at 828 metres, is a must-see location in Dubai. This grand structure lies in the centre of the city and is a hive of activity both day and night. If you want a quiet vacation, you can simply stand in awe of this majestic structure's sheer size, but it's also worth going inside.

There is an observation deck at level 124 that offers stunning views of the city, and you can also eat at The Top Sky Lounge. For special occasions, you can treat yourself to fine cuisine at At.mosphere or The Lounge, Burj Khalifa, the highest lounge in the world.

4. Jumeirah Mosque

The Jumeirah Mosque is well-liked by a variety of tourists and is also the most photographed mosque in Dubai. This is because it is the only mosque accessible to non-Muslim visitors.

Additionally, being one of the most stunning structures in the emirate, it is made completely of white stone in the mediaeval Fatimid style, and it is especially spectacular at sunset. Further, here you can visit six days a week, but note that Fridays are reserved for prayer.

5. Dubai Creek

Dubai undoubtedly has a rich culture that is yet to be discovered. If you are looking for older institutions with a more modern feel, Dubai Creek is the place to visit.

This saltwater estuary, located in the middle of the city, also served as the Bani Yas tribe's initial settlement location. Hence, it is undoubtedly the finest value tourist attraction in the city, with tickets costing approximately AED1.

Apart from that, you can also explore the maze-like passageways of the textile, spice, and gold souks to get a local's perspective on Dubai.

6. Deep Dive Dubai

With a depth of 60 metres, Deep Dive Dubai is the deepest pool in the entire globe. It contains 14 million litres of water and features a sunken metropolis for scuba divers to explore.

This is specifically designed for individuals who enjoy the sea. But it should be noted that deep diving is only permitted by certified divers, but everyone over the age of 10 can go snorkelling on the surface and scuba diving up to 12 metres.

7. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is one of Bur Dubai's oldest neighbourhoods. This region is situated along the ancient canals of Dubai Creek, offering evocative vistas of a bygone period. You can explore his neighbourhood on foot, adorned with old wind towers and a maze of winding alleyways.

You can also visit the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) to learn Arabic. You can also go for heritage and guided mosque tours to experience the local culture.

8. Ain Dubai

Ain Dubai is 75 metres taller than the London Eye. This place is also regarded as the tallest observation wheel in the world. The wheel towers over Bluewaters Island offer expansive views for visitors. If you are visiting Dubai, note that tickets for rides on the structure are available at the venue, or you can also book it online.

9. Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is the largest destination in the world for leisure, entertainment, and shopping. It has more than 1,200 retail establishments, multiple department stores, and hundreds of eating and drinking establishments. Besides this, it expands more than 1 million square metres, almost equivalent to 200 football fields.

10. The Dubai Desert

The Dubai Desert is within a 20-minute drive from Downtown Dubai's contemporary streets. Here you can go on a desert safari packed with exhilarating activities like quad biking and sandboarding.

Also, you can reserve a safari through renowned tour operators if you prefer luxury. Apart from exploring the desert, you can visit Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, which is the perfect place to treat yourself to a memorable evening amidst the dunes.

11. Kite Beach

If you love beaches, Kite Beach is the perfect destination for you. This place has a large expanse of white sand, clear water, and enough activities to make you feel jovial. Although it is mostly hot outside, when it's not, you can play volleyball, try kitesurfing, or go for a run around the soft running track.

12. Al Seef

Al Seef is an excellent amalgamation of the city's history and modern services. Additionally, two areas—one devoted to the past and another to the future—are separated within the 1.1-mile district that borders Dubai Creek.

Furthermore, you can wander through the lovely alleyways, have a coffee or a meal at the cafés and restaurants, or you can relax in one of the peaceful public areas and observe the action on the creek.

13. Etihad Museum

If you want to experience how the seven Emirates make up the UAE, this is a place for you. This place draws a crowd across the UAE and different parts of the globe. Although the Etihad Museum isn't very large or filled with information, it is undoubtedly one of the most popular things in Dubai. Also, it is essential for a well-rounded visit to the UAE, even for those who are not museum enthusiasts.

14. Museum of the Future

The Museum of the Future is one of Dubai's most well-known architectural icons, along Sheikh Zayed Road. The Dubai Future Foundation established the museum, which investigates how science and technology can shape society in the following decades.

Being a "living museum," it combines aspects of conventional exhibitions, immersive theatre, and themed attractions. It also allows visitors to imagine beyond the present and toward the endless possibilities of the future.

15. Dubai Frame

Since its launch in 2018, Dubai Frame has established itself as a cultural icon that unites the city's past and present. This attraction is situated in Zabeel Park and gives visitors sweeping panoramic views of the city from a height of 150 metres.

Most importantly, the Dubai Frame allows visitors to see the transition between Old and New Dubai. Also, one of its most outstanding characteristics is the modern clear glass bridge. In addition, this is a walkway that joins parallel vertical towers, giving the building the exact appearance of a large picture frame from the outside.

16. Burj Al Arab

Since it opened, Dubai's renowned Burj Al Arab has allowed guests inside for a 90-minute immersive tour of the hotel's ultra-luxurious interiors. In some instances, this place is synonymous with Dubai and one of the best places Dubai is known for.

You may also explore the landmark's gilded rooms and take in the unparalleled city views. Also, you may go deeper with tour customisations and maximise your experience.

17. Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is the most recent cultural hub to open in Dubai. It was constructed beside the historic Dubai Creek and is shaped like a conventional Islamic lectern.

It is the largest library in that area and also serves as a distinctive landmark for Dubai. Additionally, it symbolises the region's collective cultural knowledge, educational achievements, and ongoing ventures into scholarly pursuits. Visitors can tour its nine levels and explore its stunning architecture.

18. Dubai Spice Souk

Of all the souks in the city, Dubai's enormous spice bazaar is undoubtedly the most exciting. Although it is crowded, it is filled with enticing sights and smells. The most famous spices here include Persian dried limes, saffron, barberries, rose hips, and conventional Middle Eastern spice blends.

Moreover, the souk comprises numerous shops offering varieties of spices, handcrafted lanterns, clothes, souvenirs, and everything.

Apart from the destinations mentioned above, a few of the popular things Dubai is known for include –

19. Skydive Dubai

If plummeting through the air while travelling 120 mph over Dubai sounds fun, Skydive Dubai has you covered. Here, beginners are also invited to leap alongside the company's knowledgeable guides, but certified divers can dive alone.

But, you should note that the cost of a tandem flight from Skydive Dubai's facility on The Palm is close to 2200 AED. So, regardless of the price, if you're an adventure seeker who isn't afraid of heights, this adventure is worth every penny.

20. Manousheh – Iconic Cuisine of Dubai

In Dubai, you will find a local pizza called Manousheh. This is a good option for those with strong taste palates, especially if you're looking for Dubai delicacies. Additionally, it is also an ideal option for a sumptuous breakfast.

Basically this is a stretched dough or flatbread topped with exotic ingredients like olive oil, earthy zaatar herbs, and salty Akkawi cheese. However, it is also recommended as the go-to meal for Dubai's street food explorers. So, don't forget to explore this with minced lamb and delicious jam.

21. Flying with Falcons

If you opt for this private adventure experience, the pilot, a skilled balloonist and falcon handler, will be the only passenger in your balloon. For this, visitors are driven into the desert with their lodgings, and some of the most breathtaking views you'll ever see of the desert are from above.

In addition to the breathtaking undulating terrain, you will see camels and oryx ambling around the desert. This tour is perfect for celebrating a special occasion with a loved one or for people who want to learn about the culture completely. However, it is essential to understand that prior reservations are necessary.

22. Visit Dubai Parks and Resorts

Dubai Parks and Resorts enhance the city's standing as a haven for amusement. It is a perfect spot for tourists, and the maze of exquisite theme parks, which includes Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, Legoland, and Legoland Water Park, is sure to thrill kids.

Also, Riverland Boulevard, which has restaurants and a variety of outdoor entertainment, is a great relaxing place for adults. You can also visit this region’s first and only Legoland Hotel or the opulent Polynesian-style hotel, The Lapita, etc.