Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the busiest airports in the world and a major transit hub. For those stopping in Dubai for a short time, there are options to include sightseeing while in transit. It is convenient to visit a few top Dubai attractions and see parts of the city within limited time (TURKEY TRAVEL).
Dubai is not a cheap city, though budget
travel in Dubai is possible with some planning. Even a day in Dubai is doable
during a stopover at the airport. Sightseeing can begin in the morning and end
by late evening. One-day Dubai city tours usually cover the main places to
visit in Dubai, and arrangements can be made easily through travel agents or
hotel counters (CHANDIGARH, INDIA TOP ATTRACTIONS).
Famous Buildings in Dubai
Whether on a city tour or a day of
sightseeing, the drive through Dubai is lined with striking landmarks. During
the journey, the guide usually points out the famous buildings that shape the
city’s skyline. These modern structures are among the main Dubai attractions
that have placed the city prominently on the world map. Even without stepping
inside, seeing their facades is part of the city’s attraction.
Among the impressive structures, the top 5
famous buildings in Dubai are:
Marina 101
Standing tall in Dubai Marina, Marina 101 is among the tallest residential
towers in the city. Its glass exterior and sleek vertical lines reflect the
modern look of the waterfront. Seen from the road, the tower stands as part of
Dubai’s impressive skyline along the Marina stretch.
Princess Tower
Once recorded as the tallest residential building in the world, Princess Tower
remains a standout feature of Dubai Marina. Its crown-shaped top is easily
noticeable from a distance, a familiar sight during city drives, with the
building symbolising Dubai’s reach for height and design.
Cayan Tower
Cayan Tower draws instant attention for its 90-degree twist, giving the
impression that it spirals upward into the sky. The design sets it apart among
the surrounding towers, and its curved shape makes it one of the most
eye-catching facades when driving through the Marina area.
Emirates Towers
Located along Sheikh Zayed Road, the Emirates Towers are twin landmarks easily
recognised during any drive through Dubai’s main business district. With sharp,
modern edges and identical triangular tops, they capture the city’s corporate
strength and architectural precision.
JW Marriott Marquis
Among the tallest hotels in the world, the JW Marriott Marquis features two
towers inspired by the date palm. From the roadside, their symmetry and height
dominate the view, representing Dubai’s mix of luxury and modern structure
without needing to step inside.
Burj Khalifa
Among Dubai’s skyscrapers, Burj Khalifa stands out. It is hard to miss as the
tallest building in the world at 828 metres. Completed in 2010, its design is
inspired by Islamic patterns and desert flowers. The tower houses offices,
residences, restaurants, and a luxury hotel, forming a key part of Dubai’s
skyline.
A quick stop during a city tour gives a view of Burj Khalifa at its full height. Located near Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain, the observation decks on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors provide wide views across the city, including the skyline, desert, and coastline. At night, the tower lights up along with the fountain, making it one of Dubai’s most photographed sights.
The Blue Mosque
The Blue Mosque, officially named Al Farooq Omar bin Al Khattab Mosque, is a
landmark in Dubai’s Al Safa area near Sheikh Zayed Road. Its design is inspired
by Istanbul’s Blue Mosque, seen in its 21 domes, four minarets, and intricate
blue mosaics.
The mosque can be viewed from the outside
at any time. Visiting inside requires checking the hours, following the dress
code, and confirming photography rules. Even from the street, the combination
of domes, minarets, and decorative details makes it a striking feature along
the skyline.
Often included on Dubai sightseeing routes, the mosque stands out calmly amid the surroundings, noted for its serene presence and architectural detail.
Jumeirah, Dubai
Walking into Jumeirah, Dubai, the area is packed with landmarks and buildings
close together. Jumeirah Beach stretches along the coast with its sandy shore.
Across the road, homes and offices line the streets.
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) rises along
the waterfront, while nearby, Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT) include a mix of
offices and apartments. The Jumeirah Mosque stands near the main road and is
open to the public. The Madinat Jumeirah area has traditional Arabian-style
buildings with courtyards and waterways.
Moving along the streets, the mix of
modern towers and older structures becomes clear. Smaller lanes lead to houses
and paths that connect to the beach. Burj Al Arab stands on a small island near
Jumeirah Beach. Its sail-shaped design and blue-and-white glass walls are
visible from several points along the coast.
The area combines modern buildings, traditional structures, and the beach in one compact space. Each landmark is easy to recognize. From this part of Dubai, streets, buildings, and the beach are all visible within a short distance and a short time.
Desert Safari in Dubai
A desert safari is one of the most popular activities in Dubai. Different
packages are available depending on budget and time. The sunset desert safari
is the most common, usually including pick-up and drop-off from hotels.
The safari begins with a drive into the
desert. City streets give way to wide stretches of soft, brown sand. Along the
way, there are stops for activities such as sandboarding, quad biking (ATV
rides), and skydiving. These are suited for those spending more time in the
desert.
On the sunset desert safari, there is time
to walk on the sand and enjoy the desert surroundings. Then, the jeep drives
through the rolling sand dunes for a thrilling ride.
The safari stops in the heart of the
desert just before sunset. The sun slowly dips behind the dunes, casting warm
light on the sand. It is a good moment to walk, look around, and take photos.
The jeep then heads to an open-air area designed like a traditional desert
village. Camel rides are available along the way.
In the desert village, small stalls sell
souvenirs and local crafts. Cushions and low tables are arranged for a
traditional Arabian-style dinner. The meal usually includes grilled kebabs,
hummus, fresh salads, flatbreads, and sweets such as baklava.
Cultural shows follow the dinner,
including belly dancing, tanoura (traditional folk dance), and sometimes live
music. The combination of food, entertainment, and desert surroundings gives a sense
of traditional Arabian culture.
A desert safari in Dubai is a memorable way to experience the desert landscape, local culture, and traditional food. It is a highlight for anyone visiting Dubai and a unique way to end a day in the city.
