The 17 Most Famous Landmarks in Dubai
Dubai has a way of doing things on a big scale. Over the years, every visit has shown me something new, another landmark, another area that didn’t exist before, or a familiar place that looks completely different again.
After visiting Dubai many times since 2011, these are the landmarks that truly stand out. Some are world-famous, others are more low-key, but all of them help explain why Dubai feels so unique.
If you’re planning your first trip, this list will help you decide what’s actually worth seeing.
Short on time? These hotels are well located for exploring Dubai’s main landmarks.
➡️Address Downtown, next to the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa
➡️Taj Dubai with stunning views of the city
➡️JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai, the 2nd-tallest hotel in Dubai
➡️Hotel Indigo Dubai Downtown by IHG with city and water canal views
1. Burj Khalifa
No Dubai landmark list can start anywhere else.
The Burj Khalifa rises 828 metres into the sky and completely dominates Downtown Dubai. Even after seeing it many times, it still feels unreal standing underneath it.
What makes it special isn’t just the height. Inside are record-breaking observation decks, the world’s highest restaurant, and some of the fastest elevators you’ll ever step into.
The area around it is just as impressive. Dubai Mall, the fountains, and the surrounding walkways make this one of the best places to explore both day and night.
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➡️Book your At the Top Burj Khalifa Sky 148+124+125 floor HERE
➡️Book The Lounge Burj Khalifa 154+153+152 floor HERE
2. Dubai Fountain
Right outside the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain puts on water shows every evening.
Jets of water shoot high into the air, moving in time with music and lights. Each show only lasts a few minutes, but it’s one of those things you naturally stop for, even if you’ve already seen it before.
You can watch it for free from the promenade or from restaurants with terrace seating overlooking the lake.
3. Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the world and feels more like a small city than a mall.
Inside, you’ll find hundreds of shops, restaurants, cafés, an ice rink, a cinema, an aquarium, KidZania, and even an indoor waterfall. It’s also directly connected to the Burj Khalifa and accessible from the metro via a long air-conditioned walkway.
Even if shopping isn’t your main goal, Dubai Mall is worth visiting just to see how massive it really is.
4. Burj Al Arab
The sail-shaped Burj Al Arab is one of Dubai’s most recognisable landmarks.
Built on its own artificial island, it’s designed to stand out, and it does. You can’t enter freely, but you can visit if you book a guided tour or reserve a table inside.
Even if you don’t go in, seeing it from Jumeirah Beach or from a distance along the coast is still impressive.
5. Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah is one of Dubai’s most well-known man-made islands.
Shaped like a palm tree, it’s home to luxury hotels, beach clubs, restaurants, and residential areas. At the top sits Atlantis The Palm and the newer Atlantis The Royal.
You can reach the Palm by monorail, but to get around the island itself, taxis are the most practical option. For views, The View at The Palm is well worth it.
➡️For a stunning 360-degree view of Palm Jumeirah, head to the View at the Palm Observatory.
6. Museum of the Future
The Museum of the Future is impossible to miss along Sheikh Zayed Road.
Its oval shape and Arabic calligraphy make it one of the most striking modern buildings in Dubai. Inside, the museum focuses on future technology, space, health, and innovation.
Tickets need to be booked in advance, and it works well for both adults and children.
7. Ain Dubai
Ain Dubai is the world’s tallest observation wheel and sits on Bluewaters Island.
It’s a striking landmark you can see clearly from JBR Beach and Dubai Marina. When riding it, the cabins offer wide views over the coast, Palm Jumeirah, and the city skyline.
➡️Get your tickets for Ain Dubai with Priority Queue and F&B here.
8. Dubai Frame
Dubai Frame does exactly what its name suggests.
From the top, one side looks out over Old Dubai, while the other faces the modern skyline. It’s one of the best ways to visually understand how much the city has changed.
There’s also a glass floor section, which adds a small adrenaline moment to the visit.
9. Al Fahidi Historical District
Al Fahidi, also known as Al Bastakiya, shows what Dubai looked like before the skyscrapers.
Here you’ll find narrow lanes, wind-tower houses, museums, and quiet courtyards. It’s walkable and feels completely different from modern Dubai.
You can pair this with an abra ride across Dubai Creek for a better sense of the city’s past.
➡️For a better experience, book a guided tour of Old Dubai here.
10. Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is one of the most popular areas to stay and spend time in.
A long waterfront promenade runs through the area, lined with cafés, restaurants, and tall residential towers. In the evening, the reflections from the lights make it especially nice for a walk.
Dhow cruises, yacht tours, and the Marina zipline are all available here.
11. Global Village
Global Village is open seasonally and combines culture, food, shopping, and entertainment in one place.
Each pavilion represents a different country, with traditional products, street food, and live performances. You can try dishes from around the world, watch cultural shows, and browse souvenirs all in one evening.
It’s lively but easygoing and works well for families or couples.
12. Aura Skypool
Aura Skypool sits high above Palm Jumeirah and offers a 360-degree infinity pool experience.
It’s not cheap, but the views are hard to beat. If you’re looking for a one-time splurge experience in Dubai, this is one of the most talked-about spots. The tickets can be booked through their official website.
14. Al Qudra Lakes
Al Qudra Lakes are located outside the city, deep in the desert.
The area feels calm and open, with artificial lakes surrounded by sand dunes. Love Lake, shaped like two hearts, is the most well-known spot.
It’s a great place for sunset, a romantic walk, or a break from the city.
12. Dubai Miracle Garden
Dubai Miracle Garden is a reminder that Dubai enjoys doing the unexpected.
Millions of flowers are arranged into large displays, sculptures, and themed designs. The layout changes every year, which keeps it interesting even on repeat visits.
The garden is only open during the cooler months and usually closes from May to October due to the heat.
15. Jumeirah Mosque
Jumeirah Mosque is the only mosque in Dubai open to non-Muslims.
Guided tours explain Islamic traditions, local customs, and cultural practices in a welcoming and open way. It’s a good place to better understand local culture beyond the usual sightseeing.
16. The Green Planet
The Green Planet is an indoor tropical rainforest located in City Walk.
Inside, you’ll find thousands of plants, birds, reptiles, and animals spread across several levels, all centred around a large artificial tree. Because it’s completely indoors, it’s an easy place to visit even when it’s very hot outside.
It’s especially popular with families and is a good option during the summer. Book your tickets for The Green Planet here.
17. Dubai Creek
Dubai Creek is where the city’s story began.
Long before malls and skyscrapers, this was the centre of trade and daily life. Today, you can still ride a traditional abra for just one dirham and watch life move along the water.
It’s simple, but it’s one of the most authentic experiences in Dubai.
Final Thoughts
Dubai’s landmarks aren’t just about being famous. Together, they show how fast the city has grown and how different each area feels.
➡️Here is a tour during which you will see some of these famous landmarks in one day.
You don’t need to see everything in one trip. Pick the places that match your interests, mix modern sights with older areas, and leave room to explore.
That balance is what has kept me coming back to Dubai for so many years.
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