A distant and arid land, Dubai’s reputation precedes itself, offering a thrilling allure unlike anywhere else in the world. From luxury shopping, ultramodern architecture and high-tech innovations to a bustling nighttime scene, millions of visitors flock to this sprawling capital city each year to get a taste of the opportunity and excitement that awaits. Between the destination’s various awards, numerous cultural attractions and enticing atmosphere, there’s no shortage of reasons for travelers to visit the UAE’s most populous city.
Dubai’s World Records
Dubai is known for housing some of the world’s greatest man-made feats, shattering previous records by a long shot. Visiting these landmarks will not only leave travelers awestruck, but it’s a fun way to explore the area and an opportunity unique to Dubai.
Naturally, it’s only right to start with the acclaimed Burj Khalifa, aka the world’s tallest skyscraper. While it’s easy to get lost in the magnificence of the building’s exterior, which measures at an imposing 2,716 feet, the interior is also equally as special. For heart-pumping, adrenaline-rushing views, visitors can head up to the observation decks on levels 124 and 125. Additionally, level 122 offers the world’s tallest restaurant, At.mosphere, where travelers can dine on wagyu tenderloins and foie gras with a view. Visitors who want to extend their stay and further explore the Burj Khalifa should consider booking a room in the Armani-branded hotel, located on the first 39 floors.
Travelers don’t have to go far for the next record-breaker, as the Dubai Fountain, the world’s tallest performing fountain, is situated directly in front of the Burj Khalifa. Shooting water 460 feet into the air, the show features colorful jets moving in time with a range of songs, including K-pop hits and beloved throwbacks.
A short 10-minute walk from these two creative displays is the Dubai Mall, and while it may not hold the gold-medal slot as the world’s largest, it is by no means small. Visitors will find over 1,200 shops here, featuring 70 signature outlets, hundreds of food and beverage outlets and Fashion Avenue, where haute couture brands such as Versace and Burberry are located. That’s not all — the mall also offers the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, an Olympic-sized ice rink and an expansive indoor cinema complex.
Dubai holds many records above ground, but the city is making its mark underwater, too. Visitors can find the world’s deepest pool at Deep Dive Dubai, where an artfully crafted sunken city rests 200 feet deep. Apartments, storefronts, streetlights, garages, foosball and pool tables are scattered throughout the post-apocalyptic layout, and guests are permitted to explore up to a certain depth based on their diving experience.
Cultural Attractions
Religion is the crux of everyday life in Dubai, with the majority of its citizens practicing Islam, Christianity, Hinduism or Buddhism. Many of the sacred temples and religious sites in the city are off-limits to visitors, though the Jumeirah Mosque is one exception. This stunning attraction is made from white stone in the medieval Fatimid style with twin minarets framing a central dome. Its glowing exterior makes it a heavily photographed spot, and tours of the mosque teach travelers about Islamic holidays, rituals, traditions, cuisines and customs. While the mosque does welcome non-Muslim visitors, guests should still be prepared to dress modestly.
Visitors who prefer to interact with culture through food and flavor will particularly enjoy the Dubai Spice Souk. A market for Middle Eastern goods, travelers will find herbs such as sumac, cardamom, za’atar and even saffron in abundance here. Vendors also sell various pre-made spice mixes and trinkets that make for travel-friendly souvenirs.
Speaking of fragrant herbs, the Perfume House, part of the Al Shindagha Museum complex, presents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to discover the ancient methods of Arabic perfume-making. The tour offers insights into the region’s perfume trading routes and the traditional oils and ingredients used to make local scents. A gift shop attached to the museum sells some divine pre-made Emirati scents, and an on-site perfumery allows visitors to try their hand at customizing their own fragrance.
Originally appeared in the Spring 2025 issue of The Compass magazine
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