UAE
10 Great Reasons to Visit Dubai in 2024
If you thought you knew Dubai, think again. This year, this dynamic city will offer even more reasons to top your holiday list. In 2024, Dubai will welcome more stunning hotels, host more action-packed events and family-friendly activities, and offer fabulous culinary adventures filled with authentic Emirati cuisine, international street food, and Michelin-starred dining delights. There will be thrills galore with exhilarating indoor and outdoor adventures, as well as aerial and underwater excursions. Discover the top reasons why Dubai should top your travel list in 2024.
1. Hotels for all kinds of travellers
Dubai is home to a wide selection of hotels catering to all types of travellers. Two standouts are Bab Al Shams Desert Resort, designed to resemble a fortified Arab village and located deep in the Dubai desert, and 25Hours, a boutique city hotel renowned for its local artwork and recent addition of Cinema Akil, a platform showcasing quality independent films from around the world. Additionally, options such as W Dubai – Mina Seyahi, an adults-only beachfront playground with spectacular views across the Arabian Gulf, and NH Collection Dubai The Palm, known for its vegan-friendly rooms and various sustainability initiatives, provide excellent stays in the emirate.
2. Take in Dubai’s skyline from the most Instagrammable locations
Sky Views Dubai at Address Sky View takes city sightseeing to new heights. Adventure-seekers can take on the Edge Walk and Sky Glass experiences on the 52nd and 53rd floors, or ride the breathtaking glass Sky Slide from floor to floor outside the tower while revelling in panoramic views of the city. Dubai Frame holds the title of the world’s largest picture frame, provides spectacular views of ‘old’ Dubai and Dubai Creek on one side, and ‘new’ Dubai and its myriad landmarks on the other. AURA Skypool is suspended 200 metres in the air, and is the highest 360-degree infinity pool in the world. Guests can swim in the sky while soaking in stunning panoramic views of the city’s iconic skyline, Palm Jumeirah, and the Arabian Gulf.
3. Iconic architecture
Dubai is known for architectural marvels such as Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, the iconic sail-shaped Burj Al Arab, and the impressive Dubai Frame. Visitors can delve into history at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, and witness futuristic innovation at the Museum of the Future.
4. Unwind at beautiful beaches
Dubai boasts several public beaches including Kite Beach, a standout destination for sun-seekers, food enthusiasts, kite surfers, and all manner of watersports lovers. Sunset Beach, also known as Umm Suqeim Beach, provides tranquil ambience, stunning views of Burj Al Arab, and is one of the best places to watch the sun sink below the horizon. Furthermore, The Beach at JBR is one of the most popular beaches in the city and with its promenade filled with shops, restaurants and outdoor markets it is ideal for seaside lounging any time of day. Its extensive coastline offers visitors a chance to try parasailing, kitesurfing, sailing, jetskiing, kayaking, and more. Whether you’re seeking high-flying adventures or serene water-based activities, Dubai’s beaches cater to various interests and provide ample opportunities for fun and exploration.
5. Ultimate Shopping Destination
Often referred to as a shopper’s paradise, Dubai boasts a multitude of malls, including mega destinations such as Dubai Mall, the largest mall in the world, and the entertainment-packed Mall of the Emirates, to a serene shopping experience at Dubai Hills Mall, or discounted designer goods at The Outlet Village in Jebel Ali for bargain lovers, Dubai ensures options tailored to every taste and budget.
A trip to Dubai is never complete without a visit to its Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Textile Souk, where you can haggle for exquisite jewellery, saffron, or authentic Arabian fabrics. For custom-designed jewellery, consider exploring the Gold and Diamond Park, a quieter alternative to the bustling Gold Souk.
6. Authentic local experiences
For visitors eager to explore the desert, the Platinum Heritage Desert Safari is a top choice. Recognised by the World Travel Awards, this premium tour offers authentic Emirati cuisine, conservation guides, falconry shows, cultural performances, and wildlife drives in vintage Land Rovers. Guests can also explore Sonara Camp, which is just a 40 minute drive from Downtown Dubai. Hatta – 90 minutes by car from the city center – boasts a 700-kilometre mountain range loved by photographers, nature enthusiasts, and adventurers. Hatta’s rugged landscapes, wadis (valleys), and farms set the stage for extensive hiking trails, mountain bike adventures, and kayaking at Hatta Dam.
7. Gastronomy
With more than 13,000 eateries representing 200 nationalities, Dubai offers an eclectic menu of culinary experiences. During the city’s annual culinary festival, Dubai Food Festival, which takes place from 19 April to 12 May this year, visitors can explore a variety of flavours and cuisines – from live cooking shows to street food and affordable set menus during Dubai Restaurant Week. The city is home to 90 Michelin-recognised restaurants covering 23 cuisine types. Enjoy a progressive underwater fine-dining experience at acclaimed seafood restaurant Ossiano inspired by the ocean with floor-to-ceiling views into a huge aquarium.; opt for some Japanese sharing plates at local favourite and MICHELIN Guide Bib Gourmand recipient, 3Fils; or experience an immersive modern-Indian culinary journey at Trèsind Studio, among many more.
8. Perfect escape for couples
Dubai is the ideal destination for romantic celebrations, with enchanting resorts, sandy beaches, and unique dining experiences. The award-winning Pierchic offers sumptuous modern Mediterranean fare in a sophisticated ‘overwater dining’ setting where the serene waters of the Arabian Gulf dovetail views of Burj Al Arab. Additionally, couples can enjoy a romantic luxury getaway at Anantara The Palm with rooms overlooking lagoon-inspired pools, or opt for villas that open onto the beach, experience a hot air balloon ride for a stunning sunrise over the desert, or head to the MICHELIN-starred Ossiano for a memorable evening while being surrounded by a floor-to-ceiling aquarium – also ideal for a proposal for those looking to pop the question, as guests can choose to display a personalised message through a diver!
9. Bucket list adventures await
Dubai offers a plethora of bucket list experiences tailored to diverse tastes. Guests can watch the sunset from Burj Al Arab’s observation deck, take a heart-pounding leap with Skydive Dubai, or relax and unwind during a getaway in the dunes of Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve’s Al Maha Resort and Spa. The city covers it all.
10. World-class golf
In addition to being a hub for prestigious golfing competitions, Dubai offers enthusiasts the opportunity to refine their skills on different courses. Notable options include The Montgomerie Golf Club, The Els Club, Dubai Hills Golf Club and Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club – the city’s second-oldest course having opened its doors in 1993.Topgolf Dubai also provides a fun interactive golf experience for all ages, with live music and dining.
