First acquaintance with Dubai: best places, impressions, and flavors
Dubai is a city where past and future merge into a single whole. Here, modern skyscrapers stand alongside authentic Eastern bazaars, and amid high technology and luxurious hotels, traditions of Arab hospitality are preserved. The gleaming Burj Khalifa, the labyrinths of the old Al Fahidi quarter with its aromas of spices, and the azure waters of the Persian Gulf with golden beaches. In Dubai, one can drown in the chic of fashionable restaurants and boutiques or immerse oneself in the serenity of the desert, feeling the spirit of ancient nomads.
Main attractions of Dubai for a first visit
Burj Khalifa
Without doubt, the Burj Khalifa is one of Dubai's most impressive attractions. It's the tallest building in the world, with a height of 828 meters. From its observation deck, a panoramic view of all of Dubai opens up, and you can see how this megalopolis develops right before your eyes. The cost of a ticket to the observation deck starts from 149 dirhams (approximately $40) for standard entry during daytime.
Ideal time to visit
It's best to visit the Burj Khalifa an hour before sunset. This way you can enjoy the views of Dubai in daylight and see how it transforms in the darkness when the city lights begin to shine brightly.
Tips for buying tickets: how to save money and avoid queues
To save time and avoid queues, it's better to buy tickets in advance online. Often there are discounts on official websites or through special applications. Pay attention to skip-the-line tickets or combined tickets that give you the opportunity to visit several popular Dubai attractions simultaneously.
It's best to visit the Burj Khalifa an hour before sunset. This way you can enjoy the views of Dubai in daylight and see how it transforms in the darkness when the city lights begin to shine brightly.
Tips for buying tickets: how to save money and avoid queues
To save time and avoid queues, it's better to buy tickets in advance online. Often there are discounts on official websites or through special applications. Pay attention to skip-the-line tickets or combined tickets that give you the opportunity to visit several popular Dubai attractions simultaneously.
Dubai Fountains
Every evening, the famous Dubai Fountains dance to music, creating a mesmerizing atmosphere. This incredible show takes place every 30 minutes, and each performance is unique, thanks to the variety of musical compositions.
Operating hours and best viewpoint
The fountains operate daily from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. For the best view, we recommend choosing the Dubai Mall terrace, where you can see the fountain show and the Burj Khalifa while enjoying a cup of tea at one of the many cafes.
Free observation deck
If you want to watch the show for free, you can position yourself in the square by the fountains at the foot of the Burj. However, keep in mind that there are many people here in the evening, so come early to get a good spot.
The fountains operate daily from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM. For the best view, we recommend choosing the Dubai Mall terrace, where you can see the fountain show and the Burj Khalifa while enjoying a cup of tea at one of the many cafes.
Free observation deck
If you want to watch the show for free, you can position yourself in the square by the fountains at the foot of the Burj. However, keep in mind that there are many people here in the evening, so come early to get a good spot.
Al Fahidi District
Al Fahidi is one of the oldest districts in Dubai, where traditional Arab houses and narrow streets have been preserved. A walk through this district allows you to immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the old city.
What to see in the old city of Dubai:
▪︎ Dubai Museum: located in the ancient Al Fahidi Fort. Here you can learn about the development of the city and its historical past.
▪︎ Art spaces: there are several galleries and cultural centers in the area, such as Alserkal Avenue, which showcases works by contemporary artists, and The Flying Saucer Gallery, which focuses on local art and design.
▪︎ Cafes with local flavor: in Al Fahidi, you can try traditional Arabic cuisine in cozy cafes, for example, at Cafe Bateel, which serves delicious dates and authentic Arabic coffee, or at Arabian Tea House, which immerses you in the atmosphere of the past.
Abra (traditional Dubai boat)
To feel the atmosphere of old Dubai, you can always use an abra – a traditional boat that ferries across the Dubai Creek. Boats are available at several piers in the Al Fahidi area and operate around the clock. This is an ideal way to see the old and new city for a symbolic fee. The fare is about 1 dirham (approximately $0.30) one way.
▪︎ Dubai Museum: located in the ancient Al Fahidi Fort. Here you can learn about the development of the city and its historical past.
▪︎ Art spaces: there are several galleries and cultural centers in the area, such as Alserkal Avenue, which showcases works by contemporary artists, and The Flying Saucer Gallery, which focuses on local art and design.
▪︎ Cafes with local flavor: in Al Fahidi, you can try traditional Arabic cuisine in cozy cafes, for example, at Cafe Bateel, which serves delicious dates and authentic Arabic coffee, or at Arabian Tea House, which immerses you in the atmosphere of the past.
Abra (traditional Dubai boat)
To feel the atmosphere of old Dubai, you can always use an abra – a traditional boat that ferries across the Dubai Creek. Boats are available at several piers in the Al Fahidi area and operate around the clock. This is an ideal way to see the old and new city for a symbolic fee. The fare is about 1 dirham (approximately $0.30) one way.
Miracle Garden park in Dubai
This is not exactly a natural wonder, but still a floral miracle – Miracle Garden in Dubai. The park's territory is decorated with millions of flowers, creating unique compositions and figures: floral arches, tunnels and sculptures, living paintings – all of this is worth seeing at least once. Many tourists come to this park just to take vibrant photos and capture this Dubai oasis.
Tastes of Dubai: what you must try
Dubai is a true gastronomic paradise where flavors from different cultures meet and intertwine. Emirati cuisine represents a combination of Arab traditions with influences from Indian, Persian, and Asian cuisines. In this city, you can find both traditional dishes and modern interpretations of favorite flavors.
Emirati cuisine: must-try dishes
▪︎ Al Machboos – rice with meat, spices, and vegetables, cooked over low heat. The dish is rich, with bright flavor and aroma, perfect for fans of hearty lunches.
▪︎ Machbous – this is similar to Al Machboos, but with fish or seafood, as well as aromatic herbs. It will especially appeal to those who prefer seafood delicacies.
▪︎ Karak – strong black tea with milk and spices, which has become a symbol of Dubai. This is an ideal drink for morning or evening relaxation.
▪︎ Luqaimat – traditional Arabic pastries, deep-fried and drizzled with sweet syrup. These little sweets melt in your mouth, leaving a pleasant aftertaste.
▪︎ Machbous – this is similar to Al Machboos, but with fish or seafood, as well as aromatic herbs. It will especially appeal to those who prefer seafood delicacies.
▪︎ Karak – strong black tea with milk and spices, which has become a symbol of Dubai. This is an ideal drink for morning or evening relaxation.
▪︎ Luqaimat – traditional Arabic pastries, deep-fried and drizzled with sweet syrup. These little sweets melt in your mouth, leaving a pleasant aftertaste.
Where to try authentic Dubai flavors
Turkey's tallest skyscraper—Sapphire—has stood for 14 years in the Levent business district in the European part of Istanbul. The fashionable Turkish Manhattan and the Istanbul Sapphire tower are perfectly visible from yachts traveling along the Bosphorus Strait. The Sapphire in Istanbul rises to 261 meters, with 10 underground and 54 above-ground floors.
A glass observation deck with a café-restaurant is located almost at the very top. The 360-degree panorama from 236 meters is breathtaking. In the spacious room, it's pleasant to drink a cup of coffee while appreciating views of the Bosphorus Strait and the panorama of Istanbul from the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea.
It's easy to reach the Sapphire skyscraper from the 4.Levent metro station. The first six floors of the building house a shopping center. Don't worry about getting lost—there are signs near the entrance directing you to the ticket office and high-speed elevator. A ticket to the Sapphire observation deck in Istanbul costs 455 lira.
A glass observation deck with a café-restaurant is located almost at the very top. The 360-degree panorama from 236 meters is breathtaking. In the spacious room, it's pleasant to drink a cup of coffee while appreciating views of the Bosphorus Strait and the panorama of Istanbul from the Black Sea to the Marmara Sea.
It's easy to reach the Sapphire skyscraper from the 4.Levent metro station. The first six floors of the building house a shopping center. Don't worry about getting lost—there are signs near the entrance directing you to the ticket office and high-speed elevator. A ticket to the Sapphire observation deck in Istanbul costs 455 lira.
Modern gastronomic experiences in Dubai
Time Out Market in Dubai is a place where world cuisine meets local flavors. Here you can try everything – from fresh seafood and sushi to traditional Arabic dishes. This market is perfect for those who want to enjoy a variety of flavors in one place. In addition to street food, signature dishes from renowned chefs are also presented here.
Breakfasts with a view of Dubai
If you want to start your morning with a bright gastronomic impression, check out a cafe or restaurant with a panoramic view of Dubai. Here are several places definitely worth visiting:
▪︎ The Brass – an establishment for those who follow healthy eating, offering a wide selection of tasty and nutritious breakfasts.
▪︎ Baker & Spice – a cafe focused on fresh local products, where you can not only try delicious dishes but also enjoy the view of the bay.
▪︎ At.mosphere – a restaurant on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa. Breakfast at a height – both literally and figuratively!
Breakfasts with a view of Dubai
If you want to start your morning with a bright gastronomic impression, check out a cafe or restaurant with a panoramic view of Dubai. Here are several places definitely worth visiting:
▪︎ The Brass – an establishment for those who follow healthy eating, offering a wide selection of tasty and nutritious breakfasts.
▪︎ Baker & Spice – a cafe focused on fresh local products, where you can not only try delicious dishes but also enjoy the view of the bay.
▪︎ At.mosphere – a restaurant on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa. Breakfast at a height – both literally and figuratively!
Entertainment and unique experiences in Dubai: beaches and sea adventures
Dubai is a city where you can enjoy the sun on free beaches, relax in stylish beach clubs, or embark on an unforgettable yacht cruise. Let's talk about the best places to spend time by the water and which routes to choose for a sea adventure.
Free beaches and exclusive beach clubs in Dubai
For those who prefer relaxation without extra expenses, Dubai's public beaches are suitable:
▪︎ JBR Beach Dubai – a lively beach next to The Walk promenade, where you can rent a sun lounger, try water activities, or stroll through restaurants with a sea view.
▪︎ Kite Beach Dubai – an ideal place for fans of active recreation, surfing, and promenade walks.
▪︎ Al Mamzar Beach Park Dubai – an area with shady alleys and spacious beaches.
▪︎ JBR Beach Dubai – a lively beach next to The Walk promenade, where you can rent a sun lounger, try water activities, or stroll through restaurants with a sea view.
▪︎ Kite Beach Dubai – an ideal place for fans of active recreation, surfing, and promenade walks.
▪︎ Al Mamzar Beach Park Dubai – an area with shady alleys and spacious beaches.
If you want comfort, privacy, and impeccable service, it's worth checking out premium beach clubs. Here you'll find stylish pools, signature cocktails, and parties with DJ sets. Among the most popular:
▪︎ Nikki Beach Dubai – an iconic place with snow-white sun loungers, parties, and a glamorous atmosphere.
▪︎ White Beach Dubai at Atlantis The Palm – an elegant club with a stunning view of Palm Jumeirah.
▪︎ Drift Beach Dubai – a secluded beach club in One&Only Royal Mirage with a concept of "luxurious minimalism."
▪︎ Nikki Beach Dubai – an iconic place with snow-white sun loungers, parties, and a glamorous atmosphere.
▪︎ White Beach Dubai at Atlantis The Palm – an elegant club with a stunning view of Palm Jumeirah.
▪︎ Drift Beach Dubai – a secluded beach club in One&Only Royal Mirage with a concept of "luxurious minimalism."
Sea adventures: yacht voyage in Dubai
One of the most memorable activities in Dubai is a sea cruise on a yacht. This is not just an excursion, but an opportunity to see the metropolis from the water, organize a romantic dinner, celebrate a special occasion, or even try deep-sea fishing.
How to rent a yacht in Dubai?
You can rent a yacht for several hours or for the whole day. It all depends on your travel goals. For booking, you simply need to choose a suitable yacht, route, and time.
How to rent a yacht in Dubai?
You can rent a yacht for several hours or for the whole day. It all depends on your travel goals. For booking, you simply need to choose a suitable yacht, route, and time.
Couragе-Voyage offers a wide selection of sea routes on yachts in Dubai, which can be rented for several hours or for the whole day – it all depends on your plans. The cost includes full service: captain, crew, catering, and even an entertainment program. You just need to choose the route and time – the team will take care of everything else.
Popular routes for a sea cruise in Dubai:
▪︎ Voyage along Dubai beaches – a trip along the coast from JBR (Dubai Marina) to Burj Al Arab (the sail-shaped hotel) with views of the city's iconic places. Along the way, you'll see the largest Ferris wheel Ain Dubai and the Dubai Marina area with its modern skyscrapers.
▪︎ Voyage around the Palm – a cruise around the famous man-made island Palm Jumeirah. Here you'll see the majestic Atlantis hotel, elegant villas, and panoramic views that travelers from all over the world admire.
▪︎ Voyage along Dubai beaches – a trip along the coast from JBR (Dubai Marina) to Burj Al Arab (the sail-shaped hotel) with views of the city's iconic places. Along the way, you'll see the largest Ferris wheel Ain Dubai and the Dubai Marina area with its modern skyscrapers.
▪︎ Voyage around the Palm – a cruise around the famous man-made island Palm Jumeirah. Here you'll see the majestic Atlantis hotel, elegant villas, and panoramic views that travelers from all over the world admire.
▪︎ Fishing voyage – for those who dream of experiencing the real thrill of deep-sea fishing. The waters of the Persian Gulf are rich in fish, and with an experienced team, the chances of catching a large barracuda or a king grouper increase significantly.
▪︎ "7 wonders of Dubai" voyage – a route for those who want to see the most iconic attractions and areas of the city in one trip. You sail past the iconic Burj Khalifa, the artificial island The World, and many other landmark sites of Dubai.
Wild Wadi Waterpark
This is not exactly a sea adventure, but still a water one. Wild Wadi Waterpark is one of the most popular in Dubai, located next to Burj Al Arab. Here you'll find more than 30 attractions, including an extreme water slide descent, a wave pool, and areas for relaxing. The park's theme is inspired by Arabian tales of Sinbad the Sailor, which really immerses you in the atmosphere of Eastern adventures.
▪︎ "7 wonders of Dubai" voyage – a route for those who want to see the most iconic attractions and areas of the city in one trip. You sail past the iconic Burj Khalifa, the artificial island The World, and many other landmark sites of Dubai.
Wild Wadi Waterpark
This is not exactly a sea adventure, but still a water one. Wild Wadi Waterpark is one of the most popular in Dubai, located next to Burj Al Arab. Here you'll find more than 30 attractions, including an extreme water slide descent, a wave pool, and areas for relaxing. The park's theme is inspired by Arabian tales of Sinbad the Sailor, which really immerses you in the atmosphere of Eastern adventures.
Sea adventures: yacht voyage in Dubai
Dubai is a true paradise for shopaholics. Where should you shop to get maximum enjoyment and not miss out on good deals? Let's figure it out.
Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is not just a shopping center, but an entire universe of shopping, entertainment, and gastronomic pleasures. Within its expanses, you can find more than 1,200 stores, including world-famous brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, and others.
Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is not just a shopping center, but an entire universe of shopping, entertainment, and gastronomic pleasures. Within its expanses, you can find more than 1,200 stores, including world-famous brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Prada, and others.
At Dubai Mall, you'll find excellent service, free Wi-Fi, areas for rest and entertainment. There is an underwater zoo – an aquarium with a glass tunnel, as well as an ice skating rink, so you can not only shop but also have fun with family or friends.
Traditional markets of Dubai
If you want to feel the true spirit of the city and buy something special, it's worth visiting the traditional markets – Souks. Here you can find Eastern fabrics, carpets, spices, and aromatic incense. The markets are located in the Deira area, near Dubai Creek.
Traditional markets of Dubai
If you want to feel the true spirit of the city and buy something special, it's worth visiting the traditional markets – Souks. Here you can find Eastern fabrics, carpets, spices, and aromatic incense. The markets are located in the Deira area, near Dubai Creek.
Famous markets, such as the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, immerse you in the atmosphere of the East with its bright colors, smells, and sounds. Walking through these markets, you will not only make a purchase but also feel like a part of the local culture. And you can also bargain with sellers, which will make your shopping even more exciting and profitable.
Seasonal sales and Tax Free in Dubai
One of the main advantages of shopping in Dubai is seasonal discounts and the ability to use Tax Free. During seasonal sales: Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) and Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), you can find items with discounts of up to 75%.
Dubai offers a Tax Free system for tourists. When buying goods in stores, you can get a refund of value-added tax (VAT), which allows you to save up to 5% of the purchase cost. To do this, simply ask the seller to complete a Tax Free form and present it when leaving the country at the airport.
Seasonal sales and Tax Free in Dubai
One of the main advantages of shopping in Dubai is seasonal discounts and the ability to use Tax Free. During seasonal sales: Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) and Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), you can find items with discounts of up to 75%.
Dubai offers a Tax Free system for tourists. When buying goods in stores, you can get a refund of value-added tax (VAT), which allows you to save up to 5% of the purchase cost. To do this, simply ask the seller to complete a Tax Free form and present it when leaving the country at the airport.
Useful tips for newcomers to Dubai
Transport: how to easily get around Dubai
▪︎ Metro. One of the most convenient and fastest ways to get around Dubai is the metro. It is ideal for reaching the most popular places. Stations operate daily from 5:30 am to midnight. This is a cheap and comfortable way to travel through Dubai districts, independent of traffic jams.
▪︎ Metro. One of the most convenient and fastest ways to get around Dubai is the metro. It is ideal for reaching the most popular places. Stations operate daily from 5:30 am to midnight. This is a cheap and comfortable way to travel through Dubai districts, independent of traffic jams.
▪︎ Taxi. Taxis in Dubai are popular and available, but prices are much higher than the metro. It's worth noting that there can be traffic jams on the roads, especially during rush hours, so taxis are not always the fastest option.
▪︎ Car rental. If you plan to travel around Dubai districts independently, car rental is a convenient option. However, it should be taken into account that traffic in Dubai can be intense, and parking limited. Additionally, an international driver's license and a credit or debit card are required for car rental.
For more information on how to use transport in Dubai and which to choose, read our article: Transport in Dubai.
Maps and applications that make navigation in Dubai easier
To easily navigate Dubai, it's worth installing several useful applications in advance.
▪︎ Google Maps – the perfect application for finding routes and estimating travel time.
▪︎ RTA Dubai – the official UAE application for conveniently finding routes on public transport, including metro and buses.
▪︎ Careem and Uber – these are popular services for ordering taxis in Dubai.
▪︎ Car rental. If you plan to travel around Dubai districts independently, car rental is a convenient option. However, it should be taken into account that traffic in Dubai can be intense, and parking limited. Additionally, an international driver's license and a credit or debit card are required for car rental.
For more information on how to use transport in Dubai and which to choose, read our article: Transport in Dubai.
Maps and applications that make navigation in Dubai easier
To easily navigate Dubai, it's worth installing several useful applications in advance.
▪︎ Google Maps – the perfect application for finding routes and estimating travel time.
▪︎ RTA Dubai – the official UAE application for conveniently finding routes on public transport, including metro and buses.
▪︎ Careem and Uber – these are popular services for ordering taxis in Dubai.
Rules of behavior: what tourists need to know in Dubai
Dubai is not only a modern megalopolis but also a place with a unique culture and traditions, so it's important to follow local rules of behavior and respect local laws.
UAE culture and laws
▪︎ Alcohol – alcohol sales are permitted only in specialized establishments and hotels. Drinking alcohol on the street or in public places is strictly prohibited.
▪︎ Public displays of affection – holding hands with a partner is acceptable, but open kisses and hugs are not customary. Such actions may result in fines or even arrest.
▪︎ Photography – taking pictures of people without their permission, especially women, can cause displeasure and lead to unpleasant consequences.
UAE culture and laws
▪︎ Alcohol – alcohol sales are permitted only in specialized establishments and hotels. Drinking alcohol on the street or in public places is strictly prohibited.
▪︎ Public displays of affection – holding hands with a partner is acceptable, but open kisses and hugs are not customary. Such actions may result in fines or even arrest.
▪︎ Photography – taking pictures of people without their permission, especially women, can cause displeasure and lead to unpleasant consequences.
Dress code in public places and on Dubai beaches
▪︎ In public places, it's best to avoid revealing outfits. Women and men are recommended to wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
▪︎ On the beach, swimwear is allowed, but it's important to remember that on public beaches it's necessary to observe decency – avoid exposure in areas beyond the beach.
▪︎ In shopping malls and restaurants, it's also better to choose clothing that corresponds to local standards of decency.
▪︎ In public places, it's best to avoid revealing outfits. Women and men are recommended to wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
▪︎ On the beach, swimwear is allowed, but it's important to remember that on public beaches it's necessary to observe decency – avoid exposure in areas beyond the beach.
▪︎ In shopping malls and restaurants, it's also better to choose clothing that corresponds to local standards of decency.
Dubai is a city that will reveal itself differently to everyone. To see all the most interesting things, plan your route in advance and choose convenient transport. Be sure to visit famous attractions, go shopping at Dubai Mall, and don't forget about an unforgettable yacht trip with Couragе-Voyage.