Popular areas to stay during a trip to Dubai
Dubai is a frequently visited tourist destination with so much to explore. The emirate has so much to offer, from avant-garde architectural wonders to opulent and historical sites. But the big question is where to stay during your Dubai vacation. We’ve rounded up a comprehensive list of all the popular areas in Dubai to stay in for first-timers and those on a leisure trip.
BEST AREAS TO STAY DURING YOUR DUBAI VACATION
DOWNTOWN DUBAI
It’s a no-brainer! Downtown Dubai is one of the most popular areas to stay during a trip to Dubai. The area is the epitome of opulence and luxury, it features award-winning international hotels, towering skyscrapers and plenty of leisure attractions.
There’s a long list of attractions and things to do in Downtown Dubai such as exploring the majestic Souk Al Bahar and indulging in a retail or dining extravaganza at the bars and restaurants.
And, of course, a trip to the unmissable Burj Khalifa – one of the tallest buildings in the world – is a must on your itinerary. Apart from being impressed by its sheer size and grandeur, visitors can be a part of different thrilling, exciting activities. Some of the things worth trying here include:
At the Top Sky
Take in the views of the iconic Dubai skyline from the observation deck on Level 148 of the Burj Khalifa at SKY lounge with complimentary refreshments. Prices start from AED 399.
Sky Views Observatory
Enjoy the unparalleled 360-degree views of Dubai from the observatory. Tickets start from AED 80.
Sky Views Edge Walk
If you’re up for a challenge? Take a hands-free walk on a ledge that encircles the Burj Khalifa’s top tower’s main pod perched over 219.5 metres above Downtown Dubai. Tickets start from AED 499.
Sunrise + Morning Treat
Watch the sun come up on the glorious horizon overlooking the stunning Dubai skyline. Available between 05:00 am to 07:30 am, visitors can enjoy a complimentary early morning treat as well. Prices start from AED 149 onwards.
But that’s not all. Travellers can also enjoy a Dubai Fountain Lake ride or go for a scenic Dubai Fountain Boardwalk. The Dubai Mall is also located in this bustling district that offers an array of shopping, dining and leisure options.
The mall is home to the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, and an Olympic-sized ice rink called the Dubai Ice Rink. It boasts a VR Park for an immersive experience. Moreover, you can head over to the Dubai Opera for scintillating performances.
There are numerous hotels and hotel apartments in Downtown Dubai in which to stay. Here’s a list of some of the most popular hotels in the district:
- Ramada by Wyndham
- DoubleTree by Hilton
- Rove Downtown
- Address Skyview
- Address Downtown
- Address Dubai Mall
- Address Boulevard
- St.Regis
- Sofitel Dubai Downtown
Dubai Marina
Next on our list of popular areas to stay during your Dubai vacation is Dubai Marina. This vibrant area is home to some of the best bars in Dubai, such as Atelier M, Toro Toro, Asia Aisa, Nezesaussi Grill and Barsati.
If you love socialising and meeting new people, the restaurants and watering holes do not disappoint! Dining galore await at the frequently visited upscale restaurants in Dubai Marina, such as the Marina Social, Sloane’s and Masterchef TV Experience restaurant.
The community is right next to JBR, another area known for its activities and activities, such as wakeboarding, kayaking, motor boat rides and a dinner dhow cruise.
Dubai Marina Mall offers an array of impressive leisure, entertainment, dining and shopping options. The mall is home to XDubai, an extreme sports option that offers ziplining and other thrills for adrenaline junkies. Or you can take a stroll along The Dubai Marina Walk.
On the other hand, if you prefer to spend some time on a boat, the Dubai Marina Yacht Club offers memberships for yachting and other benefits such as valet parking and a state-of-the-art gym with experienced trainers.
Looking for luxury five-star hotels in Dubai Marina? Here are some of the popular options:
- Address Dubai Marina
- Grosvenor House Dubai Marina
- Rove Dubai Marina
- Wyndham Dubai Marina
- Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel and Suites
JUMEIRAH
Jumeirah is another great option for a Dubai family vacation. The area has many parks and attractions for kids, including some of the most popular public beaches. Soak up the sun at the Jumeirah Public Beach or pay a visit to the serene Jumeirah Beach Park.
Love to cycle around? The area boasts the Jumeirah Cycling Track, one of the best cycling tracks in Dubai that offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and the Burj Al Arab. Moreover, the upmarket location is close to the Mall of the Emirates in Al Barsha and Sunset Mall. Visitors can also explore other destinations, such as the Dubai Sailing Club, Kite Beach and Umm Suqeim Park.
Popular Jumeirah hotels that you stay at during your family trip to Dubai include:
- Jumeirah Beach Hotel
- Park Regis Boutique Hotel
- Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa
- Mandarin Oriental Jumeira
- Nikki Beach Resort & Spa
Palm Jumeirah
The Palm Jumeirah is a man-made archipelago shaped like a palm tree representing Dubai in all its grandeur. Those on a Dubai vacation will be delighted to know that there are countless interesting things to do in Palm Jumeirah, such as exploring The View at the Palm, Palm Jumeirah Broadwalk, The Lost Chambers Aquarium and the Aquaventure Waterpark, to name a few.
Don’t forget to discover all that the Pointe the Palm has to offer. The Instagrammable boulevard has several restaurants with views of the Palm Fountain, where you can dine on delicious cuisine while taking in the mesmerising views of the Palm Fountain.
Adrenaline junkies can head to SkyDive Dubai for an unforgettable skydiving experience. The area has several options for motorised and non-motorised watersports as well. Atlantis the Palm is a popular destination and popular among tourists.
Let’s explore some of the best Palm Jumeirah hotels for a memorable Dubai vacation:
- FIVE Palm Jumeirah
- Anantara The Palm Dubai
- One & Only The Palm
- Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
- Waldorf Astoria Dubai
OLD DUBAI
Old Dubai comprises of historical yet well-established areas like Deira, Bur Dubai, Al Karama and Al Garhoud. These areas have evolved over time, particularly Bur Dubai was the commercial hub before the oil revolution.
Some of the popular attractions in Old Dubai are the Deira Clocktower, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, Dubai Creek and Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, to name a few.
Take a glimpse of the time when Dubai was a small fishing village to a modern metropolis at the Dubai Museum. Sheikh Mohammad Centre for Cultural Understanding is a must-visit for tourists.
The centre offers a chance to learn and experience traditional Emirati culture and local cuisine. Al Fahidi Fort is also located a stone’s throw away from the centre.
Indulge in a classic Emirati-style tea at the Arabian Tea House, or head over to the Coffee Museum to learn more about the popular beverage’s history and try some local Arabic coffee blends.
Another reason why Old Dubai areas are popular among visitors is the iconic and unmissable souks. This is where you’ll find some of the most popular Deira Gold Souk, Textile Souk, Perfume Souk and Old Souk Dubai.
The Dubai Creek and Al Seef have their own charm. Don’t miss out on taking a traditional abra ride for an unbelievable price. Foodies will surely have an awesome selection of eateries from around the world. There are several hole-in-the-wall eateries and cafes that visitors should explore.
There are several hotels in different parts of Old Dubai. Some of the options include:
- Four Points by Sheraton Bur Dubai
- Park Regis Kris Kin Hotel
- Golden Tulip Deira
- Radisson Blu Hotel, Deira
- ibis Dubai Deira City Centre
- Crown Plaza Dubai Deira
FAQs
Are there any free things to do in Dubai?
Yes. There are several free things to do in Dubai. You can visit the Bur Dubai Grand Mosque, see the flamingos at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, explore the public beaches, visit the Hatta Heritage Village, take a stroll at Pointe The Palm, and enjoy views of the Palm Fountain. You can also visit the Dubai Canal for spectacular views. The artificial canal has a running track and a cycling track as well.
What is the best time to visit Dubai?
You can visit the emirate whenever you like to, but if you prefer to avoid the sweltering summers, visit between the colder months from December to February.
Can I visit Dubai with the kids?
Yes, Dubai is one of the popular family-friendly destinations with plenty of things to do for kids. Visit the LEGOLAND and stay at the LEGOLAND Hotel. Another option is to splash about at the Aquaventure waterpark or head over to Ski Dubai or IMG World of Adventures. These are only a few of the exciting kid-friendly activities that you try during your Dubai vacation, there are plenty more in different parts of the emirate.
That’s all for our guide to the most popular areas to stay in during your Dubai trip. Each area has its own perks and attractions. Depending on your budget, you can also opt to stay in budget-friendly hotels in Dubai, mostly located in the older parts of the emirate.
