Dubai is so much more than a stopover. It’s an exclusive emirate where luxury is standard and the sun shines all year round. Everything in Dubai is bigger, better and more glamorous than pretty much anywhere else in the world. The city-state is known for its upscale shopping, A-list nightlife and next-level luxury hotels. In short, it’s a must-visit for those who appreciate the finer things in life. Here are the top ten reasons you need to visit Dubai in the United Arab Emirates. 

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1) Seven Star Luxury 

Dubai is home to the world’s most luxurious hotel, the Burj Al Arab. This seven-star property takes opulence to the next level with sumptuous rooms fit for royalty and floor-to-ceiling gold leaf and marble. The hotel is located on a man-made island 300ft out and sea. Its sail-shaped silhouette is one of the most iconic components of Dubai’s legendary skyline. 

2) Shopping

Dubai’s designer shopping is second-to-none. In fact, the Dubai Mall is the largest shopping centre in the world with over 1,000 stores including Bvlgari, Louis Vuitton and Roberto Cavalli. If that weren’t enough, the mall also houses an aquarium, a virtual reality amusement park and a haunted house. 

If you’re looking to snag some bargains, head to the Dubai Outlet Mall. You can get up to 90% off of premium designer goods, but it gets pretty busy. 

Meanwhile, Ibn Battuta Mall is worth a visit for its six themed courts. These include the India Court with its eye-catching elephant clock and the Andalusia court with its lion fountain. It claims to be the largest themed mall in the world. 

3) The Burj Khalifa 

Standing proud at 2,723 feet, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. Consequently, it also boasts the world’s highest restaurant and nightclub. A trip to the top might make your head spin, but it’s worth it for the unparalleled views of Dubai’s glittering skyline. 

4) The Dubai Fountain

As you might have gathered by now, Dubai is a bit of an overachiever. Naturally, the Dubai Fountain isn’t just a pretty water show; it’s actually the largest choreographed fountain on the planet. Like everything else in Dubai, it’s decadent and over-the-top impressive; I’d say it surpasses any other such shows you might have seen, such as the iconic Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas. 

5) Fine Dining 

Dubai is full of ultra-exclusive fine dining restaurants. There are actually no Michelin-starred restaurants in Dubai since the guide doesn’t publish a United Arab Emirates edition. However, there are many Michelin-star chefs in the city who run fine establishments such as Stay by Yannick Alleno and Social by Heinz Beck. 

What I love about Dubai is that it also takes more “mainstream” food to the next level. If you’re not into fancy food and prefer a good honest burger, you’ll still be able to find one that will knock your socks off – try Meat Me There at Al Souq Mall. 

Personally, I love to try local food when I travel somewhere new. If you want to try Emirati cuisine, try Aseelah at the Radisson Blu. It also just happens to be Dubai’s only Emirati restaurant that serves alcohol. 

6) Camel Racing Robot Jockeys

Yes, really. 

Perhaps one of the downsides of Dubai is that it’s so glamorous and modern that you don’t get to experience much traditional culture. However, watching the camel racing robots is a wonderfully unique experience. It combines a centuries-old sport with the advanced technology of the present-day UAE. 

Camel racing season lasts from October to April and the races take place on Friday and Saturday mornings at Al Marmoon. The events are free to attend but I recommend booking in advance. Unsurprisingly, this is a very popular spectator sport. 

7) Brunch

Brunch in Dubai are an infamously extravagant affair, with gourmet dishes, free-flowing cocktails and live entertainment. If you’ve got something to celebrate, head to Zuma with Dubai’s cool crowd for Asian-inspired fine dining and classy wine. Jumeirah Al Qasr, meanwhile, has a very generous selection of international cuisines and a fun live band. For the ultimate luxe brunch experience, however, you should head to the Bulgari Yacht Club. You’ll also be able to make use of the hotel’s stunning pool – if you feel up to it after all the food, that is. 

8) Nightlife

One of Dubai’s biggest draws is the top-shelf nightlife experience. Fans of EDM and urban music should head to White for a show-stopping night out. Dress to impress because the door staff are notoriously picky. Cirque Le Soir is another popular choice and its spectacular performances will make for an unforgettable night. Meanwhile, the Cavalli Club is one of Dubai’s most iconic and exclusive nightlife spots (and that’s saying something.) 

9) Beaches 

As if the futuristic architecture and luxurious amenities weren’t enough, long, sandy beaches are one of the many reasons to visit Dubai. Kite Beach is one of the prettiest, whilst Nikki Beach is perfect for anyone looking to spend a day lounging in luxury. 

10) Year-Round Sunshine 

With high temperatures and low rainfall, great weather is one of the best reasons to visit Dubai. It’s a year-round destination and a perfect choice for a spot of winter sun. However, be mindful of the holy month of Ramadan. The city doesn’t shut down completely but many businesses do close. Since Muslims fast during daylight hours at this time, restaurants put up screens to hide their customers out of respect. Dates vary every year, but you can check that here. 

For more exclusive travel destinations, check out the best resorts in the Maldives or this guide to Singapore.