Dubai Best Views

Written by Viator, August 2011

RECOMMENDATION Keywords:
Good Views / Viewpoint

Start your scenic exploration of Dubai on the water. Before you begin, take a moment to imagine the city as the somewhat sleepy fishing port it was 40-odd years ago. Now get out on Dubai Creek, the city’s major waterway, on a customized version of a dhow, a traditional Arab boat, and marvel at the soaring, constantly-changing skyline. Return at night for a dinner cruise to see Dubai’s concrete colossi blazing with light.

It was the distinctive shape of dhow sails which inspired one of Dubai’s defining landmarks: Burj al Arab, standing proudly offshore, bills itself as the most luxurious hotel in the world. Whether you fall for the extravagant swirls, royal blues and acres of gold leaf of its interior is a matter of taste, but few could remain unmoved by the incredible views from its summit. The restaurant Al Muntaha (“the highest”) is on the 27th floor, and is one of the best places to get a view of Dubai’s skyline and those extraordinary man-made features, The World and Palm Jumeirah. If you want to linger, the adjacent Skyview bar is open afternoons and evenings.

But of course the ultimate Dubai view is from the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. First sort out your tickets: pre-booked is cheaper, but there’s no guarantee your chosen time won’t see the city wreathed in haze and smog, so you may want to pay a premium to go up at short notice. Once you’re in the elevator you’ll be traveling at 10 meters per second before alighting at the 124th floor observation deck.

You’re now half a mile up: you simply can’t get any higher from the ground while still being attached to it. Dubai City is laid before you like a map and the rest of its skyscrapers look like playthings. The jaw-dropping view takes in the surrounding desert and stretches right out to the Gulf. Savor your impressions in At.mosphere, the grill room and lounge just two floors down.

Latest Replies

Add review or reply

All Dubai Best Views Reviews

Reply by Viator, May 2013
Doing what: Dubai City Half-Day Sightseeing Tour

I am glad I booked this trip as it put Dubai into perspective and made it easier to get around later by myself. The guide was very helpful and knowledgable about the city.

Report problem

Reply by Viator, April 2013
Doing what: Dubai City Half-Day Sightseeing Tour

Great tour at a reasonable price. We were pick up promptly and enjoyed our enjoyed our five hour look around the city of Dubai. Our tour guide was great! Much appreciated!

Report problem

Reply by Viator, April 2013
Doing what: Dubai City Half-Day Sightseeing Tour

We were very pleased with the tour. The coach picked us up at the port at the time indicated. We were the first to be picked up so it's true we went all around Dubai to the different hotels to pick people up. This did not bother us as it enabled us to have an even better view of Dubai. The young German girl commenting the tour was very helpful and efficient.We learnt quite a bit and the different stops were well chosen .The coach brought us back to the port in the evening and as we had spent something like six hours with them we felt that the money we paid was well spent.I definately recommend.
I

Report problem