Dubai City

Dubai is the largest city and emirate in the United Arab Emirates, known for its luxury shopping, modern architecture and lively nightlife.

When to go

Given its location in the Arabian Desert, Dubai City is warm all year round. The winter months, from October through to May, are the mildest temperatures ranging from 20°C to the mid-30s.

The summer months, from June through to September, are considerably hotter with average temperatures between 35°C and 45° C.

Top Attractions

Dubai is the city that must be seen to be believed. The Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest tower standing 828m high and is one of the most popular tourist destinations. On a clear day, the observation deck on the 124th floor is breathtaking, only to be topped by the Top Sky Lounge on floor 148. Dubai City is also home to the world's largest man-made marina, the Dubai Marina. A shopper's paradise, the Dubai Mall can be found right next to the Burj Khalifa. With over 1200 shops and 150 restaurants, an indoor theme park, an ice rink, an indoor waterfall, the Dubai Aquarium and an underwater zoo, one day simply isn't enough time to see it all!

Located in the heart of Dubai City is Dubai Creek. The Creek splits Dubai into two main regions, Bur Dubai and Deira. Here you can see the ancient trade routes in the saltwater estuary that were vital for what was once Dubai's main form of economy - pearl diving and fishing.

Beaches

Dubai is home to some of the best beaches in the United Arab Emirates, although most are affiliated with hotels and are only available for guests to enjoy. But, some of the free beaches include:

• Jumeirah Beach - the most popular in Dubai with a long soft stretch of golden sand, palm trees and grassy areas. Perfect for everyone!
• JBR Beach - for those who like to shop, dine, see a movie and go to the beach all in one. This beach has guest DJs, an open-air cinema and a water park.
• Kite Beach - a perfect spot to test out water sports. There are plenty of beach activities and a view of the Burj al Arab.

Dining

'At.mosphere' is the world's tallest restaurant, sitting 442m above ground in the Burj Khalifa. This restaurant is perfect for watching the sunset in the lounge, with options including high (literally!) tea, light lunches and fine dining. Ossiano is also one to note. The seafood specialist can be found in Atlantis the Palm. This underwater restaurant shares a wall with an 11-million-litre aquarium.

Entertainment

In a city where Islam is the main religion, Dubai has excellent nightlife. From glamorous cocktail bars to casual Irish pubs, everything is on offer.

Dubai also spoils you for choice when it comes to entertainment. With world-class festivals, events all year round, concerts, stage shows, and the Dubai Opera there's something for everyone in Dubai.

Culture

Dubai residents are made up of over 200 nationalities who all demonstrate a heritage rich in Arabian culture. Being a Muslim country, it is recommended to dress modestly through your stay in Dubai.

Adventure and Sports

Take the 20-minute journey out to the Arabian Desert, Dubai's original tourist attraction, to try off-roading, quad-biking and sandboarding, and, if you're feeling brave, saddle up for a traditional camel ride.

Getting Around

Getting around Dubai isn't a problem with their state-of-the-art transport system. Public taxis will be waiting at the airport on arrival, and travel to the city centre shouldn't take more than 30 minutes. Taxis accept most major credit cards and are soon to be wifi-enabled, perfect for tourists planning last-minute details.