Dubai is a city that is known for its opulence and luxury. However, there are also many historical and modern landmarks in Dubai for travelers to visit.
From famous buildings to ancient monuments, these are some great places to visit in Dubai. These landmarks include both man-made and natural wonders. Each one is unique in its own way to tell you about the history and culture of Dubai
So if you’re planning a trip, here are some famous landmarks in Dubai to keep a lookout for. Some of these are in New Dubai, some in Old Dubai, and some outside Dubai. Get ready to explore some impressive nature, monuments and buildings in Dubai.
Tip: Check if there are suitable city passes and discounts for attractions before visiting.
Most Famous Landmark In Dubai
Before we even dive into the famous landmarks in Dubai, there is a need to point out the most prominent one out of all the famous buildings in Dubai.
Burj Khalifa
As the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa is the most famous landmark in Dubai, and for good reason! This towering structure is a modern marvel that is known for its opulence and luxury.
But it’s not just its looks that make it so impressive; the Burj Khalifa also has some amazing statistics. This famous building in Dubai stands at a height of 828 meters (2,717 feet).
It also has the world’s fastest elevator, which can take passengers to the top in just under one minute. And if that’s not enough, the Burj Khalifa also has the world’s largest LED lighting system.
The views from the top are breathtaking, and you can even see the nearby desert from up high. If you’re looking for an awe-inspiring experience, this is certainly one of the must-see places to visit in Dubai.
Getting to the top of the tower is one of the most popular things to do in Dubai, but you can still marvel at this amazing Dubai landmark without going up.
Famous Landmarks In Dubai (New Dubai)
New Dubai is a district famous for its modernity and luxury. This area is home to some of the most famous buildings in Dubai, including the Burj Khalifa.
New Dubai is an important part of Dubai’s history, as it was here where the city experienced a massive growth in population and development. In New Dubai, there are plenty of places to visit for travelers.
Some of the most popular Dubai landmarks here include the Walk at JBR, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab and more.
FAMOUS BUILDINGS IN NEW DUBAI
Burj Al-Arab Jumeirah
The Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is one of the most unique and amazing buildings in Dubai. It has a very striking and eye-catching design.
The Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is a world-famous hotel and the only 7-star hotel in the world. The hotel has 321 meters in height and it stands on an artificial island. The construction of the building started in 1994 and was completed in 1999.
The Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is one of the most luxurious hotels in the world and it offers a wide range of services to its guests.
Atlantis
Atlantis is one of the most popular landmarks in Dubai. It is an amazing hotel and resort that sits on a man-made island. This building is definitely worth checking out if you are in Dubai.
Some interesting facts about Atlantis are that it contains one of the most fun aquarium and waterpark in the world, it has a total of 17 restaurants, and it has over 1539 rooms.
If you are looking for an amazing and luxurious place to stay while in Dubai, Atlantis is a great option that offers breathtaking ocean and city views.
While staying in these premium hotels is expensive, there is a more affordable alternative of enjoying the area by cruising around on a speedboat.
The Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping mall and it is located in the heart of Dubai. This mall has everything that a traveler could possibly want while being in Dubai.
There are more than 1,200 shops and 160 restaurants in this mall. In addition to all of the great shopping and dining options, The Dubai Mall also has an aquarium, an ice rink, a cinema complex, and a theme park. This mall really does have it all!
The Dubai Mall is near other famous landmarks in Dubai including the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain. These are two other places to visit in Dubai that are definitely worth checking out while you’re in the city.
Jumeirah Mosque
The Jumeirah Mosque is the largest mosque in Dubai. It can accommodate over 4,000 worshipers in its main prayer hall and a further 2,000 in its ladies prayer hall.
It was designed by Ahmad al-Maghari, a Moroccan architect, and completed in 1979. The mosque is built in the Fatimid Islamic style, which is characterized by its two minarets and its large dome.
The mosque is open to non-Muslims for guided tours, and admission is free. This is one of the best free things to do in Dubai.
Mall of the Emirates
Mall of the Emirates is one of the largest shopping malls in the world. The mall has over 630 retail stores, including designer brands, a 14-screen cinema, an indoor ski park and a theme park.
Mall of the Emirates is also home to the first-ever Carrefour hypermarket in the Middle East. The mall attracts over 40 million visitors each year. For shopaholic travelers, this is a great (or worst) place to visit in Dubai.
The mall is also conveniently located near some other popular landmarks such as The Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa.
Dubai Opera
The Dubai Opera is a new performing arts center in Dubai. It was designed by the architect Janus Rostock, and opened in 2016. It has an interesting design that still stands out despite the modern architecture around New Dubai.
The Dubai Opera has a 2,000-seat theater, a smaller theater for chamber music and recitals, and a multipurpose hall. It is home to the Dubai Philharmonic Orchestra.
The Dubai Opera is nice place to visit in Dubai, particularly if you can create some memorable experiences by catching a show.
FAMOUS MONUMENTS IN NEW DUBAI
The Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain is located in the downtown Burj Khalifa area of Dubai, between the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.
It was inaugurated on May 8, 2009. The fountain is 275 meters (902 ft) long and shoots water up to 150 meters (490 ft) high.
The fountain has 6,600 lights and 25 colored projectors. It also has fire jets that can shoot water up to 50 meters (160 ft) high.
With all this infrastructure, the most popular activity at this famous landmark in Dubai is obviously a fountain show! It is spectacular and free! You can also opt to take a traditional water taxi (abra) that cruises the fountain for an even more impressive view of the show.
Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame, located near Zabeel Park, is a tourist attraction that is shaped like a picture frame.
It is the largest picture frame in the world, and at 153 meters high and 93 meters wide, it can hold an image of Dubai that is up to 1200 meters long. This striking monument of Dubai was opened to the public in January 2018.
The Dubai Frame consists of two towers that are connected by a bridge. The bridge is transparent, and visitors can walk across it to get a view of the city from both towers.
The north tower contains an observation deck that offers views of the old city of Dubai, while the south tower contains an exhibition about the history of Dubai.
This impressive Dubai Monument cost AED 160 million to build, and it was designed by Fernando Donis, an architect from Spain.
Ain Dubai
One of the latest monuments to grace the skyline of Dubai, is the world’s largest and highest observation wheel. At the peak point, you can catch breathtaking 360 degrees views of Dubai at a height of 250m.
From Ain Dubai, you can catch Dubai’s coastline as well as many famous buildings and landmarks in Dubai. One rotation on the wheel typically lasts around 40 minutes, and it is open for both day and night views.
There is no doubt, this will become an iconic landmark of Dubai and one of the main places to visit in Dubai.
FAMOUS PLACES TO VISIT IN DUBAI
Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is a district in Dubai that is known for its luxury high-rise apartments and hotels. The Marina is the first district in Dubai to be built specifically for luxury living.
It is a modern waterfront development that is home to high-rise buildings, luxury hotels, and trendy restaurants. The Dubai Marina has over 150 restaurants, cafes and bars, as well as a number of shopping malls and supermarkets. It is also home to the Dubai Marina Yacht Club, which offers sailing lessons and boat rentals.
The Dubai Marina is a popular place to visit in Dubai for both locals tourists. It features a broad walk that is great for strolling after a meal.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah
The Souk Madinat Jumeirah is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dubai. It is a complex of traditional Middle Eastern-style buildings, arranged around a series of waterways.
Shops and restaurants can be found in the souk, as well as an outdoor amphitheater that hosts regular performances. You can get a nice shot of the waterways with the Burj Al Arab as the backdrop at this popular landmark of Dubai.
The souk is located near Jumeirah Beach Park, making it a popular place to visit in Dubai for the beachgoers.
Palm Jumeirah
The Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island and an extremely famous landmark of Dubai.
The island was created in 2001 and it is the first of three islands that were built in the Dubai area. The Palm Jumeirah is shaped like a palm tree and it is designed to look like the date palm tree, which is native to the region.
The Palm Jumeirah is made up of a trunk, a crown and 17 leaves. The island has over 2,000 hotel rooms and it is home to several luxury resorts, including the Atlantis Resort. The Palm Jumeirah is also home to a large number of private residences.
The Palm Jumeirah can be accessed by car or boat. The island is one of the most popular places to visit in Dubai among tourists. However, the best way to “experience” the iconic shape of the island is from the skies of Dubai.
The Walk at JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residences)
The Walk at JBR is one of the newest landmarks in Dubai. It is a beautiful, palm-lined beachfront walkway that offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.
The Walk at JBR is a great place for a walk or a jog, and it’s also home to some of Dubai’s best restaurants and bars. The Walk is located in the Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) district of Dubai.
JBR Beach
Next to The Walk is The Beach, a man-made beach that offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel. It is a great place to relax, swim, or sunbathe. There are also a number of restaurants and bars located on The Beach.
The Walk and The Beach are both great places to visit in Dubai, especially during the cooler winter months.
They’re also a short drive away from other popular landmarks in Dubai, such as the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall. So if you’re looking for someplace to relax and take in the sights of Dubai, be sure to check out these couple of modern Dubai landmarks.
Famous Landmarks in Dubai (Old Dubai)
Dubai has seen a lot of change in the past few decades.
The city that was once known for its sleepy fishing villages is now a bustling metropolis with some of the most iconic and futuristic architecture in the world.
However, it’s important not to forget Dubai’s past, which is why it’s important to visit some of the famous Dubai monuments from its early days.
Old Dubai is a fascinating place to visit for tourists and discover the past culture. It is home to some of the most iconic and historical landmarks in Dubai.
FAMOUS BUILDINGS IN OLD DUBAI
Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum’s House
Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum’s House is a very popular tourist destination in Dubai. It is a beautiful, old traditional house that has been well-preserved and restored.
The house was originally built in the 1800s by the grandfather of the current ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
Visitors can tour the inside of the house and see how the wealthy lived in Dubai many years ago. The house is located in Bur Dubai, near the creek. It is one of the historic and famous buildings in Dubai.
Crossroads of Civilizations Museum
The Crossroads of Civilizations Museum tells the story of the human race, from its ancient origins to the present day. The museum spans 11,000 years of history and is home to more than 10,000 artifacts from around the world.
It’s a great place to visit in Dubai to learn about different cultures and how they have interacted with each other over the centuries.
The museum is located in Dubai’s historic Al Fahidi Fort. If you’re interested in learning about Dubai’s rich history, the Crossroads of Civilizations Museum is a great place to start. Admission to the museum is free for all visitors.
Dubai Museum
The Dubai Museum is located in the heart of old Dubai, at Al Fahidi Fort.
The museum has a large collection of artifacts that depict the life and culture of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It is a great place to learn about the traditional way of life in the UAE, and the exhibits are labeled in English and Arabic.
The museum is open from Saturday to Thursday from 8:00am to 8:00pm, and on Friday from 2:00pm to 8:00pm. Admission is free for children below 6 years old, and for all other visitors it costs AED10.
Al Fahidi Fort
Al Fahidi Fort is a historic fort in Dubai that has been restored and turned into a museum. The fort is the oldest building in Dubai. It was built in the 18th century to defend the city from invaders.
Today, it houses a number of museums, including the Dubai Museum and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.
The fort is located in Dubai’s historic Al Fahidi district. Admission to the fort is free for all visitors.
FAMOUS MONUMENTS IN OLD DUBAI
Wind Towers
The Wind Towers are iconic monuments in Dubai. Embedded on top of these beautiful old buildings, they were once used to cool the homes of the wealthy, and still offer a great view of the city.
Visitors can climb to the top of the towers for a panoramic view of Dubai. The Wind Towers are in Bur Dubai, near the creek.
Deira Clock Tower
The Deira Clock Tower is a beautiful and iconic monument in Dubai. It was built in the 1800s and has been a popular tourist attraction ever since.
The clock tower is in the Deira district of Dubai. The Deira Clock Tower is a great place to visit in Dubai for a unique view of Dubai Creek and the city skyline.
Burj Nahar
The Burj Nahar is a heritage site and is one of the oldest monuments in Dubai.
The tower was constructed in the early 1800s and served as an important watchtower for the city. It is in the Al Fahidi district of Dubai and can be easily reached by taking the Dubai Metro.
This Dubai landmark is open to the public and offers panoramic views of the city from its top level.
FAMOUS PLACES TO VISIT IN OLD DUBAI
Al-Fahidi Quarter
The Al-Fahidi Quarter is a historically significant landmark in Dubai. It is Dubai’s oldest neighborhood, and it is home to many of the oldest buildings in Dubai.
The Al-Fahidi Quarter is right in the heart of the city, and it is a popular place to visit for those who want to see Dubai’s history. Some of the most famous landmarks in the Al-Fahidi Quarter include the Bastakiya District and the Dubai Museum.
The Bastakiya Quarter is another popular tourist destination in Old Dubai. It is a historic area that used to be home to many of the city’s wealthy traders and merchants.
The Bastakiya Quarter
The quarter is full of old, traditional buildings of Dubai that have been well-preserved. Visitors can walk through the narrow streets and alleyways and see how people used to live in Dubai many years ago.
The Bastakiya Quarter is near the creek in Bur Dubai.
Alserkal Avenue
Alserkal Avenue is a contemporary art district located in the Al Quoz area of Dubai.
It is home to many art galleries, creative studios, and workshops. The avenue is also a popular place to visit in Dubai for art events and exhibitions. It was established in 2007 by Abdul Rahman bin Saleh Alserkal, the founder of Alserkal Arts Foundation.
The Alserkal Avenue is in the Al Quoz industrial area of Dubai, next to the Al Quoz Mall and near Sheikh Zayed Road.
The Dubai Creek
The Dubai Creek is a waterway and one of the most iconic natural landmarks in Dubai. The creek divides the city of Dubai into two parts: Bur Dubai and Deira.
It served as the primary port for maritime trade in the region, and was the main conduit for goods entering and leaving the city. The creek has been mentioned in documents dating back to the early 1800s.
The creek has been the site of many battles, and was a strategic location during the Ottoman rule in 1871. The Battle of Dubai Creek took place here, where the Bani Yas tribe led by Maktoum bin Butti defeated forces from Abu Dhabi.
Today, the creek is a popular place to visit for tourists in Dubai. Many of the original buildings and docks still standing. The creek is also home to a large number of dhows, traditional Arab sailing vessels called Abra which you can enjoy at a very cheap price.
Deira Dubai
Deira Dubai is one of the most popular and oldest areas in Dubai. It is on the north side of Dubai Creek and was originally a small fishing village.
The souks (markets) in Deira are some of the most popular places to visit in Dubai. They offer a wide variety of traditional items for sale, such as spices, gold, textiles and carpets.
Traditional Souks
One of the most famous landmarks in Deira is the Gold Souk. It is one of the largest gold markets in the world and sells a variety of jewelry, including gold, silver and diamond.
Here you can gold dispensing ATM machines, which is one of the most interesting facts of Dubai. In additon, there are also all sorts of interesting items crafted in gold.
Another popular landmark in Deira is the Spice Souk. It sells a variety of spices, herbs and nuts from all over the world. The souk is open every day from morning until evening.
The Textile Souk is a famous market in Dubai where you can find textiles from all over the world. This place can get annoying with store owners looking to catch your attention. If you do want to make a purchase, you can bargain with the shopkeepers for the best prices on textiles.
Famous Dubai Landmarks Outside City Area
Dubai Parks and Resorts
Dubai Parks and Resorts is the region’s largest theme park and entertainment destination. The resort includes three theme parks: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Dubai, as well as a water park, a retail district, and a hotel.
The theme parks are based on popular Hollywood films and Indian Bollywood movies. Motiongate Dubai is inspired by films from DreamWorks Animation, Sony Pictures Studios, and Lionsgate.
Bollywood Parks Dubai is based on movies from the Indian film industry. Legoland Dubai features rides and attractions based on the popular Lego toy line.
The resort is in Jebel Ali, about 45 minutes from central Dubai. It is one of the most popular places to visit in Dubai for some group fun.
Al Qudra Lakes
The Al Qudra Lakes are a series of desert reservoirs located in the Al Qudra area of Dubai.
They were built as part of the Sheikh Zayed Road project and opened in 2006. The lakes are used to irrigate the surrounding gardens and parks, as well as for recreational purposes.
The lakes are popular landmarks in Dubai among locals and tourists alike for their scenic beauty and wildlife.
Global Village
Global Village is a super fun tourist destination in Dubai. It is an open-air cultural and entertainment center that showcases different cultures from around the world.
There are over 30 pavilions in Global Village, representing countries from Africa, Asia, Europe, the Middle East, and South America.
Each pavilion has its own unique theme and offers a variety of traditional food, handicrafts, and cultural shows. There is also an amusement park with rides and games for children, as well as a shopping center with over 2500 stores.
It is a common place to visit in Dubai for friends and families, particularly during the weekends.
Global Village is open from October to April and is located in Dubailand, about 15 minutes from downtown Dubai.
IMG Worlds of Adventure
IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world’s largest indoor theme park, located in Dubai. The park features four zones with different themes: Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure, and IMG Boulevard.
The park is home to over 20 rides and attractions, including roller coasters, family rides, and children’s rides. It also has a number of dining and shopping options.
IMG Worlds of Adventure is one of the most popular tourist landmarks in Dubai, and is a must-visit for any traveler to the city.
Dubai Miracle Garden
The Dubai Miracle Garden is one of the most beautiful landmarks of Dubai created in 2013. It is a 72,000 square meter garden that is made up of floral displays and abstract shapes that have been created with flowers.
The garden contains more than 45 million flowers and has been designed to look like a paradise garden. It is actually the largest natural flower garden in the world.
There are also several attractions in the garden, such as a butterfly garden, a children’s garden, and a musical fountain. The Dubai Miracle Garden is open from October to April.
Hatta Heritage Village
The Hatta Heritage Village is a popular tourist destination in Dubai. It is located in the heart of the Hajar Mountains and showcases the traditional Emarati lifestyle and culture of the region.
The village features ancient mud houses, a mosque, a blacksmith’s forge, and other traditional shops and boutiques. It is one of the best places to visit near Dubai if you want to learn about the past history and culture of the UAE.
Natural Landmarks in Dubai
Dubai Desert
The Dubai Desert is one of the main natural landmarks in Dubai. It’s located about an hour’s drive outside of Dubai City and is definitely a place to visit for tourists.
The desert is full of sand dunes, making it the perfect place for sandboarding and other desert sports. There are also a few Bedouin camps in the area where you can stay overnight and experience traditional desert life.
You can easily find tours bringing you to this natural landmark of Dubai to enjoy
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a wetland reserve in Dubai. It is the home to a variety of birds and other animals. The sanctuary is open to the public from 6am to 8pm.
There are a few things that you should know before visiting.
- It is important to note that there is no public transportation to the sanctuary. You will need to take a taxi or private car.
- You should wear comfortable clothes and shoes when visiting this natural landmark as you will be walking on uneven ground.
- Consider bringing binoculars if you want to get a closer look at the birds.
- Lastly, there is a café on site but consider bringing your own food and drinks.
Wadi Wurayah
Wadi Wurayah is located in Fujairah, one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates.
The wadi has been carved out by water over centuries and offers a unique and beautiful landscape to explore.
There are several trails that lead through the wadi, making it a great destination for hiking. This natural landmark in Dubai also features mutliple natural pools that are perfect for swimming.
Wadi Wurayah is home to many rare and endangered species of plants and animals, it is one of the best places to visit in Dubai for nature lovers.
Exploring Landmarks In Dubai
Whether you’re looking to explore Dubai’s natural beauty or its man-made wonders, these are just some of the famous landmarks in Dubai that you can explore on your next trip. Many of these are popular places to visit for travelers.
From towering buildings to centuries-old monuments in Dubai, there’s something for everyone to see in this interesting city. Start planning your trip today, and be sure to keep a lookout for these famous Dubai landmarks!
If you have more time, another popular day trip when visiting Dubai is a tour to Abu Dhabi and the Grand Mosque.
