Joanna James
Dubai is known for being one of the most recognisable cities in the world owing to several of its larger-than-life wonders that testify to the city’s immense cultural value and ingenuity. If you find yourself in the midst of this dazzling city, here are several of the top attractions that have come to define it.
When it comes to skyscrapers, Dubai stands above the rest with the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. This magnificent skyscraper stands at 828 metres in the heart of the city and cannot be missed the moment you lift your gaze to the horizon. To really appreciate the structure, head up to the tower’s ‘At the Top’ observation deck to witness amazing views of the city below.
This cultural landmark was first opened in 2018 and serves as an architectural expression of the city’s past and present being inextricably linked. The frame is flanked by two high-rise towers that reach 150 metres and are connected by a Sky Deck. The frame connects the past and the present by overlooking two perspectives - the old districts and neighbourhoods from the North and the city’s modern landscape to the South.
Another of the city’s most recognizable landmarks is the Museum of the Future, which explores what the future could look like with new science and technology. The building’s circular design represents humanity, while the green mound below it represents the earth, and the large void in the structure represents the unknown future. The facade is covered in three Arabic quotes about the future by His Highness Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Conceptualised as a man-made canal city, the Dubai Marina is one of the most pedestrian-friendly areas in the city. It is visited by joggers, evening shoppers and tourists out for an evening stroll from nearby hotels like Avani Ibn Battuta Dubai. The Marina’s stunning views of the city skyline are the perfect backdrop to an array of shopping malls, cosy restaurants and lounges that line the waters. Many opt to enjoy a dhow cruise along the water to truly experience the dazzling sight of the city’s skyscrapers, which is one of the best things to do in Ibn Battuta or near it.
This floral wonder is the world’s largest natural flower garden and showcases a different side to Dubai’s ingenuity. Spanning 72,000 square kilometres, the park features stunning structures made from trees and flowering plants that are arranged into colourful larger-than-life displays. The garden features more than 150 million blooming flowers displayed across the exhibits and their vibrant colours make the place feel like a scene taken straight from a fairytale.
As one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Dubai, this atmospheric corner of the city takes you back to 19th-century Dubai with its winding streets near the Dubai Creek. The neighbourhood is recognised for its role in Dubai’s development and in World War II when it served as a base for British soldiers. You can visit the museum within the historic Al Fahidi fort to learn more about the neighbourhood or explore the area on foot. Make sure to take in the sights of the traditional houses made from stone, coral and gypsum, and the large wind tower houses with elaborate designs.
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.
