Few destinations are as magnetic as Dubai. The glittering City of Gold, the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates, blends ultramodern architecture with unparalleled luxury. Despite its current global prominence for business and leisure, Dubai’s rise as an international destination is relatively recent.
Emerging as a major tourist destination in the 1990s, Dubai quickly earned the nickname “the Gulf Tiger” for its rapid economic and urban expansion.
The city’s status as a leading hub for both commerce and tourism becomes clear upon arrival at Dubai International Airport, one of the world’s busiest. My first visit began as a business trip—covering hotel openings—but it soon shifted toward leisure. Dubai’s focus on entertainment and recreation makes indulgence part of the experience: world-class dining, high-end shopping and lavish nightlife all await. Traveling with colleagues who became friends, we discovered a wealth of daytime activities and evening options. For those who enjoy vibrant nightlife, Dubai offers endless possibilities.
Museum of the Future © Visit Dubai
Certain landmarks are essential for any first-time visitor. No trip to Dubai feels complete without visiting the Burj Khalifa. The world’s tallest building rises 2,722 feet—more than half a mile—offering observation decks with panoramic city views. On the ground, the Dubai Fountain provides a spectacular show, with water jets choreographed to music and reaching heights up to 500 feet.
Another striking modern attraction is the Dubai Frame, completed in 2018 as a symbol of the city’s vision for the future. The Sky Deck provides sweeping views across Dubai, with the Burj Khalifa visible in the distance. For a more immersive and futuristic experience, visit the Museum of the Future, where each level explores themes like space exploration and emerging ecosystems. The museum’s facade is adorned with Arabic poetry that contemplates the world to come, and its exhibits aim to make visitors feel as if they are living within future possibilities.
Dubai is also renowned for exceptional shopping. Highway billboards frequently advertise luxury brands such as Gucci and Chanel, and you’ll find contemporary malls alongside traditional markets. Downtown’s Souk Al Bahar pairs modern boutiques with scenic views, while Deira’s Grand Souk offers historic passageways lined with shops. For a taste of long-standing traditions, explore the Gold and Textile Souks and the Perfume Souk on Sikkat Al Khaili Street—perfect places to shop for silks, fragrances and jewelry. Old Dubai remains the cultural heart, where historic architecture and narrow lanes invite visitors to connect with the city’s heritage.
Lamps on display in a souk © Visit Dubai
For a taste of Dubai’s elevated hospitality, visit the man-made islands offshore, including the iconic Palm Jumeirah, whose aerial silhouette resembles a palm tree. The Palm is home to several five-star properties such as Jumeirah Zabeel Saray and One&Only The Palm, each offering private beaches and premium amenities.
Luxury hotels are widespread across Dubai, many situated on artificial beaches or within striking architectural settings. The Lana, the Dorchester Collection’s first Dubai property, features refined interiors and a rooftop infinity pool with city views. Madinat Jumeirah evokes the feel of an Arabian citadel complete with its own souk, and its resort complex houses acclaimed restaurants and opulent accommodations like Jumeirah Al Qasr.
Dining in Dubai matches the city’s reputation for luxury. Michelin-starred options include Cantonese cuisine at Hakkasan Dubai within Atlantis The Royal, alongside numerous other starred restaurants. As of this year, 19 establishments in the city hold Michelin stars, including Siraj, Rüya and Indikaya. With such a diverse culinary scene, visitors should arrive ready to explore a wide range of flavors.
Palm Jumeirah © Visit Dubai
LODGING
BVLGARI RESORT DUBAI
This chic resort on a private island offers 101 rooms and 20 villas, plus amenities such as the Bvlgari Yacht Club and Beach Club and two Michelin-starred restaurants.
Jumeirah Bay Island, Jumeirah 2, Dubai
$$$$–$$$$$
JUMEIRAH BURJ AL ARAB
The sail-shaped icon features 202 suites with Gulf views, an extensive Talise Spa, a Michelin-starred restaurant and the SAL beach club with an infinity pool.
Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai
$$$$$
ONE&ONLY ROYAL MIRAGE
A 65-acre retreat with grand Arabian architecture, manicured gardens and a private beach, offering five-star service and luxurious surroundings.
King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Dubai Marina, Dubai
$$$–$$$$
DINING
AL KHAYMA HERITAGE RESTAURANT
Located in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Al Khayma serves traditional Emirati dishes and has received Bib Gourmand recognition. Try local specialties such as ferni (rice pudding), dango (spiced chickpeas) and Arabic coffee.
79 Al Mussallah Road, Al Fahidi, Dubai
$$
AL MUNTAHA
This Michelin-starred restaurant on the 27th floor of Burj Al Arab presents refined French-Italian cuisine by Chef Saverio Sbaragli, paired with panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and an impressive cheese trolley.
Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, 27F, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai
$$$$
HŌSEKI
A Michelin-starred omakase experience with only 17 seats, where Chef Masahiro Sugiyama crafts a personalized multi-course menu based on the day’s ingredients. Reservations are essential.
Bvlgari Resort Dubai, Jumeirah Bay Island, Jumeirah 2, Dubai
$$$$$
INFO TO GO
Dubai International Airport is one of the busiest international hubs, handling millions of passengers annually. The airport offers direct flights from the United States with carriers such as Emirates and United Airlines, including daily nonstop service from Newark (EWR). Located roughly 9 miles from downtown, the airport is a 15- to 30-minute ride away depending on traffic and transport choice. Taxis and ride-share services are readily available, and public transport options include the Dubai Metro—stopping at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station—and local buses such as the F13.