The world’s tallest tower, souks by the creek, white-sand beaches and the desert an hour away. In a few metro stops, Dubai goes from fishing village to city of the future.
small fishing and pearling port around the creek, Dubai became a busy trading post in the early 20th century, with the wind-tower houses of Al Fahidi. The discovery of oil in 1966 sped everything up, and the city joined the United Arab Emirates in 1971.
Rather than rely on oil, Dubai bet on trade, aviation and tourism: artificial islands, the Burj Khalifa, a driverless metro. Yet abras still cross the creek, and the gold and spice souks remain at the heart of the old town.
Find your bearings
For the Burj Khalifa, the fountain and Dubai Mall on foot. Spectacular and central, but pricey and not very walkable beyond the promenades.
For the beach, the marina walk and outdoor restaurants. Lively at night, 30–40 minutes from old Dubai.
For the souks, the creek, Al Fahidi and cheap Indian and Iranian food. Authentic and affordable, denser and less polished.
For public beaches, Jumeirah Mosque and views of the Burj Al Arab. Residential and calm; a car or taxi helps.
A first visit
A starting point to adapt to the weather, your energy and opening hours.
Morning in the lanes of Al Fahidi, then the Al Shindagha Museum on the creek. Cross by abra to the gold and spice souks. In the evening, dinner on the creek.
Morning on Jumeirah beach. In the late afternoon, go up the Burj Khalifa for sunset, then watch the fountain show. Keep half a day for the desert with a licensed operator.
