Destination Focus: Dubai
- Ellie Burnett
- Aug 27, 2025
- 17 min read
Next up on the list for my destination focus series is Dubai. It has become increasingly popular over recent years and has plenty to offer for evert traveller.
Dubai is a dynamic and rapidly growing city located in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is known for its futuristic architecture, luxury lifestyle, and vibrant culture, it has become a global hub for tourism, business, and innovation.
Dubai is a remarkable blend of tradition and style, offering a unique experience for residents and visitors alike. Its impressive skyline, iconic landmarks, luxurious amenities, and rich cultural experiences make it a standout destination.
It's the perfect destination for couples, groups, families and celebrations. Simply read through or jump to one of the following sections (click the arrows on the expandable lists to jump to sub-sections within larger sections):
Flight Focus:
The UK Airports from which you can fly directly to Dubai are:
London Heathrow
London Gatwick
Manchester
Birmingham
Edinburgh
Glasgow
London Stansted
As for specific airlines, you can fly direct with:
Emirates
British Airways
Virgin Atlantic
General Information Focus:
Currency | UAE Dirham |
Time Difference | +3 or +4 hours |
Flight Time | 7 hours |
Safety | Low crime rate |
Nightlife | Over 21s / 25s |
Tipping | Widely appreciated |
Accommodation Focus:
For Couples |
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For Families |
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For Groups |
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Explore Beyond Dubai Focus:
There are plenty of other amazing places to stay in the United Arab Emirates, including options within:
Ras Al Khaimah
Jebel Ali
Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi
Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Ras Al Khaimah |
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Jebel Ali |
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Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi |
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Yas Island, Abu Dhabi |
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Things To Do: At The Atlantis Focus
Beach Club:
Nobu’s debut pool and beach club is a haven of indulgent relaxation. Lounge in your private cabana, sip on a signature cocktail and let the live music pulsate through you. Explore exquisite culinary masterpieces, bespoke service and laidback live entertainment in interiors inspired by Japanese architecture and the oceanfront location. |
Attractions:
The Avenues |
The Avenues is a mall located within The Atlantis The Palm. There'll be something for everyone here, including:
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The Lost Chambers is home to over 65,000 fascinating marine animals. Embark on an under-the-sea adventure within the lost city of Atlantis and uncover Dubai’s favourite and most immersive themed aquarium. Make sure to include a behind-the-scenes tour to really complete your experience. |
Dolphin Swim |
Dolphin Meet & Greet: meet the dolphins from the edge of the lagoon and learn some interesting facts about their anatomy, followed by a beautiful display of energetic natural behaviours. Receive a complimentary photo and participate in a behind the scenes tour to see how the dolphins are cared for. |
Dolphin swim: witness first-hand the natural underwater behaviours of the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphins. Enjoy this unique programme where you can swim and interact with an exciting element of snorkelling in the deep-end of the Dolphin Bay lagoon. |
Dolphin encounter: get up close in waist-deep water to meet the resident dolphins and learn about their interesting biology and behaviours. Join the marin mammal specialist and be impressed by their intelligence by taking part in their daily playful enrichment and training sessions. |
Dolphin paddle: paddle your way around the beautiful Dolphin Bay lagoon and surround yourself with the curious and friendly dolphins of the Atlas Village. Relax your mind and body while learning all about their interesting behaviour in the UAE's first dolphin paddleboard experience. |
Dolphin Kayak: kayak alongisde the friendly dolphins at the Dolphin Bay lagooo, surrounded by lush an tropical landscaping. Make friends with these natural curious marine mammals - they may even swim right up to the edge of your kayak! |
VIP dolphin experience: an exclusive, intimate encounter with dolphins for a truly unforgettable luxury experience.
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Skyblaze, Atlantis Royal |
To the front of Atlantis The Royal stands the magnificent Skyblaze Fountain, where a striking elemental spectacle bursts into the sky to welcome the coming dusk. Settle into your place of pride in the Elements terrace lounge, which enjoys unmatched views of this outstanding sight, and sip speciality cocktails while you watch the fountain’s waters rise 28 metres into the air, resplendent with coruscating flame and vibrant, pulsing colour. As the sun sets and the twilight descends, witness one of these choreographed performances for yourself from the most stunning vantage point imaginable |
Fun Restaurants:
Let the good times roll at Wavehouse, Dubai’s ultimate spot for fun, food, and entertainment. Enjoy bowling (starting at AED 370 per hour), 2 levels of game arcades, and ride the waves before refueling with burgers, pizza, drinks and more! Relax on the sun-soaked terrace with live tunes, swinging seats, and a fun festival vibe. Tuck into burgers, pizzas and more, sip a refreshing drink at the bar, or head outside to the sun-soaked terrace, where live tunes, swinging seats and a festival vibe make this Dubai's liveliest dining and entertainment hub. With 2 levels of game arcades, 4 exciting bowling lanes, 5 levels of soft play for kids (AED 35 per child), and a thrilling wave rider experience (AED 475 per hour), Wavehouse is the ultimate destination to play, eat and drink! |
En Fuego brings the vibrant soul of Mexico to Dubai with bold flavours, warm hospitality, and non-stop fiesta vibes. From the irresistible aroma of hot dishes off the grill and the wildest Saturday brunch to electrifying entertainment all week long, every visit is a celebration of culture, colour, and cuisine. Let the rhythm, spice, and energy of En Fuego ignite you with an experience you won't forget! |
Luxury Restaurants:
Dinner by Heston Blumenthal |
The MICHELIN-starred Dinner by Heston Blumenthal at Atlantis The Royal offers a modern twist on historic British cuisine dating back to the 1300s. With sweeping views of the Dubai skyline, the restaurant takes diners on a journey through Chef Heston Blumenthal’s culinary fascinations, brought to life through iconic dishes like the playful Meat Fruit and the 1810-inspired Tipsy Cake. At Dinner by Heston, every meal is a journey through time. Whether you're seeking an immersive tasting adventure or the freedom to curate your own menu, the experience is entirely yours. Choose from our thoughtfully crafted menu options and discover the unexpected. |
One MICHELIN-starred, Ossiano Dubai is a progressive fine dining experience inspired by the ocean, seas, and the art of global culinary exploration. Imagine dining in one of Dubai’s most immersive restaurants as stingrays, sharks, and fish in the aquarium glide right past your table.
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The Best Asian restaurant in Dubai, Ling Ling is that voice inside your head, that taunts you to be unpredictable, to do things that are exhilarating and adventurous. To live life the way it is meant to be lived; on the edge, one day (or night) at a time. Ling Ling is more than just a dining experience, it brings together taste, sight and sound. The essence of Ling Ling reinterprets Japan's bustling Izakaya scene that pairs craft spirits and cocktails with small plates. An electric soundtrack of electronic and pop music completes the social experience that is designed to evolve throughout the night. Ling Ling takes its patrons from the day, into the evening, and then late into the night for those who dare. |
Nobu Dubai has been selected as one of the city's best restaurants by the MICHELIN Guide. Begin your experience with a refreshing beverage at our exquisite bar before proceeding to the dining room and embark on an unparalleled culinary adventure that will tantalize your senses. Alternatively, immerse yourself in our private dining room to experience a heightened level of intimacy and exclusivity. |
Things to do & See in Dubai Focus:
Iconic:
Culture:
Souk Madinat | Located in the heart of the Madinat Jumeirah Resort, Souk Madinat Jumeirah recreates the traditional Middle Eastern marketplace through distinct architecture and shopping stands, barrows and stalls. Souk Madinat Jumeirah is currently home to over 20 restaurants and cafés serving cuisines from across the globe. Most eateries provide picture-perfect views of the Arabian architecture and meandering waterways. A contemporary Souk with an artisanal soul renowned for its vibrant and fun essence. A must-visit destination offering a mix of refined global cuisines and unique retail boutiques complemented by an authentic bazaar experience & immersive art and cultural entertainment offering a glimpse of the UAE heritage. |
Dubai Gold Souk | The Gold Souk in Dubai is a famous market in the old part of the city. It’s a bustling place where you can find shops packed with gold jewellery, from simple pieces to extravagant designs. The souk is known for its wide variety of gold, diamonds, and other precious stones, and you can even haggle over prices to get a good deal. It’s one of the best places in the world to buy gold because of the quality, variety, and the fact that gold prices are pretty competitive there. Even if you’re not planning to buy anything, it’s a cool place to visit to get away from downtown and to see all the sparkling jewellery on display. |
A range of packages available that let you see the best of the desert whilst having fun at the same time! | |
Jumeirah Mosque |  |
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Falconry Experience | The UAE is the premier world centre for falconry – the falcon is, after all, the country’s national bird – so it’s no surprise that there are plenty of opportunities for visitors in Dubai to get a glimpse of the practice or even handle a bird themselves, all under close supervision. Activities vary between different providers, and can include things like watching falcons dive for prey from a hot air balloon, a demonstration of how falconers train a bird, and some background on the history of falconry and the birds themselves. Plus, they all include an opportunity to see these stunningly beautiful creatures up close. |
The authentic Camel Farm is located in Dubai’s desert, where you can get a close encounter with the very curious and friendly Camels! Little ones have not been forgotten as they can meet our fun goats, rabbits, chicken, deer, turkeys, pigeons. Other activities include a guided visit of the farm with feeding of Camels and small farm animals, Short Camel riding for kids inside the farm, Camel Hugging therapy, & One hour Bedouin Camel ride in the surrounding desert. |
Fun:
Chinatown, Dubai Mall |
Chinatown is the latest addition to Dubai Mall, located on the first floor opposite the Dubai Ice Rink with direct access to Address Fountain Views - bringing you the authentic Asian experience. Indulge in a unique shopping and leisure experience in the world’s most visited mall.
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Ski Dubai offers a range of packages and has plenty to offer! Hit the snow park, meet the penguins, or hit the slopes with their easy, intermediate, or difficult slope options. Or, why not try all three? You can also benefit from their skiing and snowboarding lessons. |
Want to explore one of the largest and most stunning aquariums in the world? Don’t miss the giant 10 million-litre tank at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, which contains more than 33,000 aquatic animals and the largest collection of sand tiger sharks anywhere. There are numerous ways for visitors to experience the main Aquarium tank, which measures 51 meters in length, 20 meters in width, and 11 meters in height, and is one of the largest suspended aquariums on the planet. If you want to get up close and personal with the aquatic creatures in the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, you can pick from a variety of passes where the cost depends on which experiences are offered. Tickets start from AED199 on weekdays or AED209 Friday to Sunday, with the Ultimate Experience costing AED299 per person. |
Abra Boat, Dubai Fountains |
The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride offers a close-up, unobstructed experience of the water and light displays, lasting about 30 minutes and departing every few minutes. While traditionally these abra boats are known for Dubai Creek, this specific Abra Boat Fountain service is a dedicated lake ride on Burj Lake to see the fountain show. |
This one does what it says on the tin! Choose from a variety of beautiful boats to rent from the Dubai Marina. Hire luxury yachts and private boats, and benefit from free cancellation, catering options, and a captain included in your hire package. |
Zaya Nurai Island |
Zaya Nurai Island is marketed as a private paradise island. It sits just off the coast of Abu Dhabi and is only accessible by boat or helicopter. Boats take just 15 minutes to get from the Welcome Centre to the island. |
Waterparks:
For waterpark fans Aquaventure World is an absolute must-see Dubai attraction; the largest waterpark in the world, it's packed with 105 different slides and rides, including some of the highest and fastest in the world. Located next to Atlantis, The Palm, Aquaventure World has become an iconic part of the city's theme park scene. From adrenaline-pumping slides to incredible animal encounters, Aquaventure World offers endless legendary adventures that will keep you coming back for more. |
Wild Wadi WaterPark offers fun for all the family. With shallow paddling for children to epic rides and everything in between, this park has got you covered. You can also enjoy some lovely on-site restaurants and a souvenir shop once you’re all worn out from a day of waterpark fun! |
At Al Barari Playground, one of the largest outdoor playgrounds in the Middle East, they are driven by a profound vision - to enrich family moments through elevated outdoor play experiences. Nestled amidst the lush greenery and serene surroundings of Al Barari, they have crafted a luxurious haven for play where families can come together to create lasting memories and connect with nature. |
Splash ’n’ Party is Dubai’s newest, coolest and most exciting Waterpark in Dubai for Kids. This Water park is designed to cater to the entire family – Whilst the little ones have a blast on the splash pads and water slides, the parents can kick back and relax at the restaurant and juice bar. With their extensive range of entertainment catered for the whole family, the only struggle you’ll have is getting your children to leave!!! |
Theme Parks & Zoos:
LegoLand Dubai offers amazing indoor and outdoor themed Lego attractions and rides, a LegoLand waterpark, a LegoLand hotel, and you can even purchase annual passes and book birthday parties. |
IMG Worlds of Adventure is Dubai’s largest indoor immersive theme park, promising visitors the excitement of 6 epic adventure worlds under one roof. Owned by IMG Group, the park covers an area in excess of 1.5 million square feet, with the capacity to welcome more than 20,000 guests a day! The park is home to worlds representing the beloved global brands Marvel and Cartoon Network, with 4 original worlds to complete the adventure: IMG Boulevard, Lost Valley, The Haunted Town, and IMG Kids Zone. The destination features a signature array of adrenaline-pumping roller coasters, year-round events, and spine-tingling attractions based on popular characters, including the park’s in-house adventure squad – The Voyagers! Visitors can immerse themselves in the magic through a variety of themed retail stores and unique dining venues. |
A world without borders. A world where more than 90 cultures come together to celebrate wonder. A world where new and exciting can be found around every corner, where colours, flavours and experiences blend into one magnificent cultural melting pot. At Global Village, they bring the world to Dubai with the best entertainment, shopping, dining experiences, and attractions designed to keep you enthralled all season long! Discover a more wonderful world each time you visit to enjoy myriad cultures, cuisines and conversations. Every season they invite the most incredible artists, performers, and creators from all over to Dubai to share their talent with guests all day every day! |
At Emirates Zoo, you can enjoy a range of experiences including exlcusive animal encounters, behind-the-scenes access, Summer Camp, animal feeding, animal presentations and much, much more! Also, as the first Autism-Friendly outdoor zoo in the UAE, they demonstrate their commitment to creating inclusive, sensory-friendly experiences for individuals with autism and other sensory sensitivities. Emirates Park Zoo & Resort is also recognised by the Early Childhood Authority (ECA) of Abu Dhabi, reflecting its commitment to providing safe, inclusive, and educational experiences for young children. |
Home to 250 Nile Crocodiles, Dubai Crocodile Park offers a family friendly experience. The park includes a Natural History Museum, an African lake themed aquarium, a Savanna inspired landscaped area, a curio shop and multiple dining outlets. |
Reconnect with nature across 6 zones with over 3,000 animals, 2 thrilling safari adventures, 15 up-close animal encounters – all connected with an exciting shuttle train. With presentations, workshops, and a chance to meet some newborn animals, it's sure to be a day to remember! |
Kids Play:
Learning is better when it’s fun. KidZania is a 7,000m2 scaled replica of a real city that combines entertainment and education, with over 70 real-life activities for children aged 4-16. They’ll discover all about different jobs through exciting role-play, and develop decision-making, teamwork, creativity and social skills in ways that can’t be taught in a classroom. |
At Mermaids of Arabia, they create unforgettable, magical experiences for children. From dazzling underwater mermaid shows to immersive makeovers, themed photoshoots, and parties, every moment is crafted to bring dreams to life. Whether it’s a birthday celebration or a special day, their enchanting packages offer cherished memories for years to come. |
OliOli® was made with love for families to come together, play and bond. Discover a spacious indoor sanctuary where hands-on activities inspire positive play. Kids are free to wander, wonder and discover in spaces designed to foster their creativity, curiosity and imagination.Every visit is unique and all ages are welcome. It’s a relaxed space for good wholesome fun. There’s no right or wrong, just never-ending possibilities and exploration! |
The Green Planet |
Experience Thrilling Wild Encounters With Exotic Wildlife Like Never Before! Meet birds, armadillos, reptile, echidna and sloths as well as experience swimming with Tropical Fish, amazing sleepovers in the Rainforest, and much more! |
Bigger. Bolder. Unforgettable. JBR has loads to offer, including:
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Spanning over 25,000 square feet, Boo Boo Laand features 30 unique attractions across 4 dynamic play zones. From thrilling adventures to customizable celebration rooms and creative workshops, every corner of Boo Boo Laand promises an enchanting experience for children of all ages. Escape the ordinary and experience the magic of Boo Boo Laand! More than just a play area, it’s a wonderland where families can bond, create cherished memories, and embark on thrilling adventures together. |
Active:
Topgolf offers a wide selection of games that utilize micro-chipped golf balls to keep track of every shot. Player's shots will be relayed back to their bay screen showing the accuracy and distance of each ball. Their giant targets make it fun for everyone – Guests of all ages and skill levels can score! |
Dubai’s first and only Crystal Clear Kayaking and the World’s first 100% transparent boat tour rentals. Discover the true beauty of Dubai’s sea in the clearest way possible with their see through kayaks and boats. Choose from a broad selection of activities of your choice from motorised to non-motorised suitable for friends, families and couples. They also offer different types of paddle boarding activities, E-foil rental and kayak fishing trips. |
Kids Restaurants & Brunches Focus:
Kid-Friendly Restaurants: | Kid-Friendly Brunches |
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Adults Only Focus:
Adult Only Brunches | Adult Only Beachclubs | Adult Only Nightlife | Adult Only Restuarants |
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...and that isn't even all of it! If you're still with me after all of that, then I hope you've gained a multitude of ideas for your next trip to Dubai, or maybe you've never been and this has inspired you to take your first trip.
Whether you're travelling solo, as a family, with your partner or bringing along friends for an adults-only trip, then Dubai really does have it all. From delicious food, to active adventures and unforgettable days of play, I hope this post has shown you how spectacular a trip to Dubai could be for you.
If you're ready to book your next getaway, and get all those amazing experiences booked in too, then get in touch! As your indepedent travel agent, I'm here to build your dream itinerary and make the booking process as hassl-free as possible. Simply submit a form on my contact page on this website, or you can reach me by:
Emailing: ellie.burnett@outlook.com
WhatsApp messaging: +44 7584485293
Also, follow me on Instagram and Facebook (@ellieb.travelagent) to keep up on the latest deals from Dubai and a variety of other beautiful destinations.
