Listen to Dubai

Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest building, soaring 828 metres above Downtown Dubai. Designed by Adrian Smith and inaugurated in 2010, its tapered silhouette draws inspiration from the desert flower Hymenocallis. Inside, the At The Top observation decks on levels 124, 125 and 148 reveal Dubai's skyline, the Persian Gulf and the desert beyond. For the most magical experience, time your visit just before sunset, when the city lights ignite below you.

The Museum of the Future is a stunning silver torus on Sheikh Zayed Road, its façade engraved with Arabic calligraphy by Sheikh Mohammed himself. Opened in 2022, the museum invites visitors into immersive scenarios of life in 2071, exploring space, climate, AI and wellness. Each floor is a different journey — book ahead, as tickets often sell out for the day.

Dubai Creek is the city's historical heart, once the lifeline of pearl divers and Arabian traders. Today you can still cross from Deira to Bur Dubai aboard a traditional abra for just one dirham — one of the best-value rides in the world. Walk the spice-scented lanes, visit the Heritage Village, and end your evening with a dhow dinner cruise as lanterns flicker on the water.

Al Fahidi, also known as Bastakiya, preserves Dubai before oil. Its narrow sand-coloured alleys, wind towers and shaded courtyards date to the late 19th century, when Persian merchants settled here. Today the quarter hosts the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, art galleries, the Coffee Museum and quiet cafés — a must for travellers seeking the city's soul.

In the Gold Souk of Deira, hundreds of windows glitter with bracelets, necklaces and bullion. Dubai is one of the world's largest hubs for gold trade, and prices here are quoted by daily international rates plus a small making fee. Bargaining is welcomed and respected — start at about 60 percent of the asking price and move kindly from there.

A short walk from the Gold Souk, the Spice Souk fills the air with cardamom, saffron, dried lemons, frankincense and rose petals. Vendors will press samples into your hand and tell you of recipes from Yemen, Iran and India. Visit in the early evening when the alleys come alive and the temperature drops.

Jumeirah Mosque is one of the few mosques in the UAE open to non-Muslim visitors, through guided tours organised by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Its symmetrical Fatimid stone façade glows pink at dawn and sunset. Dress modestly — long sleeves, long trousers or skirts, and a head covering for women.

Dubai Marina is a man-made canal city ringed by glittering towers. Stroll the 7-kilometre Marina Walk, take a yacht cruise, dine waterfront, or ride the Ain Dubai observation wheel. The Marina is at its best after sunset, when reflected lights ripple across the water and the air finally cools.

Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island shaped like a palm tree, visible even from space. Its trunk and fronds host beach resorts, residences and the iconic Atlantis. Take the Palm Monorail from the gateway to the crown, or splash at Aquaventure waterpark. For the best photo, head to The View at The Palm observation deck.

The sail-shaped Burj Al Arab is one of the world's most photographed hotels. It stands on its own island off Jumeirah Beach and rises 321 metres. Inside, gold-leafed atriums and aquariums dazzle every guest. To enter, you can book afternoon tea, dinner or the inside-Burj-Al-Arab tour — the cheapest way to step inside this icon.

Dubai Frame is a 150-metre golden rectangle in Zabeel Park that frames two views of the city: old Dubai to the north, modern Dubai to the south. The bridge floor at the top includes a transparent glass panel — fun for the brave. Visit at sunset for the best contrast between heritage and skyline.