Dubai’s accommodation scene is nothing short of theatrical (and spectacular). Picture a lustrous collection of sky-high suites, regal resorts, and minimalist desert getaways, each curated to leave a lasting impression. 

Whether you’re chasing infinity pools with Burj Khalifa views or nomadic seclusion among the dunes, Dubai delivers style and comfort at every scale. 

Downtown Dubai is the popular choice for first-time visitors and luxury aficionados, home to beacons of architectural design like the Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium, along with some of the most recognizable hotel brands in the world. For beach access and resort-style indulgence, Jumeirah Beach and Palm Jumeirah offer posh overwater villas, private beach clubs, and family-friendly activities. 

Travelers seeking a quieter, more traditional experience away from the glitz and glam may prefer staying in the 19th-century Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. Or, Al Maha provides a collection of 5-star resorts with private villas, pools, and curated desert experiences. 

Wherever you stay, expect service with pizzazz, Arabian Night settings (or proximity to such), and a hospitality culture that takes pride in going above and beyond.

As a true study in contrast, Dubai’s dining landscape can be whatever you want it to be – global and deeply regional, extravagant and humble, offering saffron-infused tasting menus one night and charcoal-grilled street food the next. 

You’ll find everything from Michelin-starred brasseries in futuristic towers to traditional Emirati meals in courtyards and souks, and everything from Levantine street food to sushi flown in daily from Tokyo for meticulous omakase menus. 

At the upscale end, the Burj Al Arab, Atlantic The Royal, and Downtown Dubai play host to celebrity chef concepts and fine dining destinations that blend gastronomy and theater. However, some of the city’s most unforgettable meals can be found nestled inside Old Dubai or on Al Dhiyafah Road, where saffron-scented stews, fresh from the oven khubz (bread), and trays of traditional Arabic sweets offer a sensory connection to the city’s heritage – best consumed without fork and knife. 

Luxury isn’t always defined by price in Dubai. It’s in the experience, the taste, and the hospitality.

In a city like Dubai, limits do not exist – and its experiences reflect that. Iconic attractions like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, and Palm Jumeirah aren’t just for photo ops, they’re globally renowned feats of architectural and engineering excellence, always within reach and serving as a futuristic backdrop for exploration. 

However, once you step beyond the skyline, another city emerges. 

In the historic neighborhood of Al Fahidi, considered one of the UAE’s most prominent heritage sites, time slows amidst narrow earthen-colored walls, art galleries, and Arabian tea houses that reflect the city’s early roots as a trade hub. The industrial warehouse compound of Alserkal Avenue offers a window into Dubai’s growing creative scene via its indie cinemas, design cafés, art studios, and other artisanal spaces.

The desert, meanwhile, provides the sharpest contrast to the city’s futuristic edge, best explored by dune buggy, hot air balloon, camel ride, or falcon show. 

With an all-consuming, unabating heat a reality most months, shopping stands out as a Dubai pastime and present – whether at Dubai Mall’s luxury flagships or the spice, jewel, and trinket souks across the Creek. For a rejuvenating reset, spend the day at a hammam (Turkish bath), sky-high luxury spa, or one of the countless beach clubs that line Dubai’s golden coastline.

Dubai is built for comfort and in style. But rarely on foot. While there are pedestrian-friendly areas in Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and City Walk, the city’s infrastructure, layout, and scorching desert heat make driving the default mode of transport. 

While exploring the city on foot is rare, there’s almost always an air-conditioned route you can take through malls, skybridges, or metro-connected walkways. 

Many travelers opt to hail a taxi or use ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber, which are widely available and affordable. The Dubai Metro is timely, clean, and a great way to reach key areas like the airport, Downtown, and the Dubai Mall. 

For trips out to the desert, souk excursions, and neighborhood hopping, hiring a private driver through your hotel can go a long way.