Joanna James
The vibrant urban centrepiece of the City of Gold that is Downtown Dubai is chock-full of fascinating wonders that draw almost every tourist to Dubai, leaving them amazed and enthralled. Here's everything you need to know to enjoy the affluent, glamorous Dubai neighbourhood to its last drop.
Soaring above the glimmering skyline of Dubai, set in the heart of Downtown Dubai, is the jaw-dropping Burj Khalifa. At 828 metres, it is the world's tallest skyscraper, placing Dubai on the top of yet another world list. Admiring the stunning feat of architecture from the ground alone is a treat for the eyes, but the real treat lies inside, specifically on the 124th and 148th floors, where two observation decks afford you probably the best city views that you'd ever see.
Anyone visiting the gigantic Dubai Mall would surely be surprised to learn that it is, in fact, not the largest but only the second-largest shopping mall in the world, with the Iran Mall grabbing the No 1 spot on that list. The sheer size of the ritzy mall is absolutely mind-blowing, where you won't be able to cover the entire shopping centre even if you spend a whole day. Aside from the mind-boggling 1,200 stores, there's also a score of entertainment facilities for your enjoyment.
Take a break from all the shopping and make your way to the ground floor of Dubai Mall to find one of the world's largest indoor aquariums, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. The 10 million litres of water that sits in the gigantic shopping mall is home to over 140 species of marine life, with sharks and rays being the highest in number. There's an array of activities on offer to treat you to an exciting aquatic experience, but the walk-through underwater tunnel is what many look forward to.
Set in the heart of Downtown Dubai is a bewitching man-made wonder that puts the city of extremes high on yet another list, the Dubai Fountain, the largest choreographed fountain system in the world. As darkness takes over the skies of Dubai, there's nothing more breathtaking to treat your eyes to than the striking spectacle of the Dubai Fountain. Dancing fountains on alluring waters set against the backdrop of Downtown Dubai's glimmering cityscape — that's a sight that needs to be seen to be believed.
Amidst the sprawling golden deserts of scorching hot Dubai is an incredible ice rink, inviting you for some fun-filled ice skating, Dubai Ice Rink at the ritzy Dubai Mall. To further complement your enjoyment, vacationing tourists could also find an elegant luxury hotel in Dubai in the vicinity, including the likes of Anantara Downtown Dubai Hotel.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
