Dubai: Latest 2025 Travel Guide
🏙️ Dubai Travel Guide | Attractions + Food + Transportation
Dubai, the flagship city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), is world-renowned for its skyscrapers, man-made wonders, and luxurious shopping malls. But beyond the glitz and glamour, you'll also find traditional Arabian souks, desert scenery, and a unique blend of cultures.
📍Must-see attractions in Dubai
1. Burj Khalifa
- Features : The tallest building in the world, 828 meters high.
- Editor’s recommendation : Be sure to go to the observation deck (At The Top), which is most beautiful at sunset and overlooks the whole of Dubai.
2. The Dubai Mall
- Highlights : One of the world's largest shopping malls, it houses an aquarium, an ice rink, and offers direct access to the Burj Khalifa.
- Editor's reminder : Don't miss the "Dubai Musical Fountain" show at the entrance at night.
3. Jumeirah Mosque
- Features : This is the only mosque in Dubai open to non-Muslims. You can take a guided tour to gain a deeper understanding of Islamic culture.
4. Palm Jumeirah
- Features : An artificial island wonder shaped like a palm tree.
- Our take : Take the light rail to admire the coastline, or stay at the Atlantis Hotel to experience the water park.
5. Gold Souk & Spice Souk
- Features : Traditional Arab market, with a wide variety of gold jewelry, spices, perfumes and souvenirs.
6. Desert Safari
- Features : Experience four-wheel drive sand rushing, camel riding, desert sunset and Arabic dance performances.
- Editor's note : It is recommended to wear light clothing as the desert will get cooler at night.
🍴 Must-try food in Dubai
| gourmet food | Reasons for recommendation |
|---|---|
| Arabic Kebab | The most classic Middle Eastern cuisine, with tender and juicy meat. |
| Shawarma | A popular street snack, grilled meat + crust + sauce are super delicious. |
| Arabic Lamb Stew (Mandi) | A traditional rice dish paired with fragrant lamb stewed in spices. |
| Hummus | A healthy and delicious Middle Eastern dip that goes great with flatbread. |
| Dates | A specialty of the UAE, sweet but not greasy, it is the best souvenir. |
| Arabica coffee (Gahwa) | A rich coffee with a hint of cardamom, often enjoyed with dates. |
🚇 Dubai Transportation Guide
1. City transportation
-
Dubai Metro
- Clean and convenient, covering the main attractions (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah Light Rail Transfer).
-
Taxi/Uber/Careem
- It is relatively cheap and suitable for people with multiple vehicles or those who do not want to transfer.
-
Bus/Tram
- There are many bus routes, but the subway is more intuitive for tourists.
2. Transportation Card
- It is recommended to purchase the NOL Card , which is valid for subway, bus and tram use.
3. Airport to city center
-
Dubai International Airport (DXB) → City Center
- The subway red line goes directly to the city center, about 20-30 minutes.
- The taxi journey takes approximately 20 minutes (depending on traffic conditions).
💡 My personal 3-day, 2-night itinerary suggestion
Day 1
Arrival → Shopping at Dubai Mall → Burj Khalifa Observation Deck → Watch the Musical Fountain at night
Day 2
Jumeirah Grand Mosque → Gold Souk & Spice Souk → Shawarma Lunch → Palm Jumeirah Light Rail → Atlantis Hotel → Desert Safari
Day 3
Breakfast: Arabic coffee and dates → Free time for shopping (Mall of the Emirates, including an indoor ski slope!) → Airport transfer
💬Editor's Thoughts <br>Dubai truly is a city that perfectly blends tradition and modernity. During the day, you can take photos with the world's tallest building, and at night, gaze at the stars in the desert. My personal favorite is desert sandboarding; the thrill and romance are truly unforgettable!
