Downtown Dubai is a spectacle with its soaring skyscrapers, luxury hotels, the Dubai Mall which is the world’s largest shopping mall, and of course, the famed Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world which towers over all the rest of the skyscrapers.
There’s so much to experience here from shopping at the fanciest brands to dining at the best restaurants with stunning views. Downtown Dubai has been aptly nicknamed “the center of now” as it depicts the best of modern living in the world. Let’s delve deeper into this stunning destination.
Quick Jumplinks
Best Time To Visit Dubai
When it comes to the weather, September and April are the best times to visit Dubai, as it tends to be quite pleasant during these months, while still being bright.
The famous Dubai Shopping Festival takes place every year from mid-December to the end of January, so it might be worth it to plan your trips during this time. This is also the period of winter in Dubai.
Things To Do In Downtown Dubai
Burj Khalifa
| 📍 Location | Downtown Dubai. Get Directions |
| 🚉 Getting There | Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station |
The iconic Burj Khalifa proudly sits at the center of Downtown Dubai, surrounded by the Burj Khalifa Lake. Burj Khalifa is the tallest tower in the world and is also the tallest manmade structure ever built. Enjoying views of the city from the observation deck here is an absolute must-do on your trip to Dubai.
Enjoying breakfast or brunch at At.mosphere in Burj Khalifa is a great tip to enjoy these views along with delicious food. This is also the world’s highest restaurant. The Dubai Fountain show is stunning to watch with the Burj Khalifa in the background, but another amazing experience is to watch the fountain show from the observation deck at the top of the tower.
You should also take a boat ride along the Burj Khalifa Lake to enjoy the best views of the Dubai skyline from afar. Additionally, here are the most spectacular things you can do at Burj Khalifa.
The Dubai Mall
| 📍 Location | Downtown Dubai. Get Directions |
| 🚉 Getting There | Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station |
Located adjacent to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping, leisure, and entertainment center and has over 1,200 retail stores. It also features hundreds of F&B outlets. You’ll find most of the renowned international brands, several local brands, and a majority of the luxury brands here. There are also two department stores within the mall.
There’s even a Gold Souk within the mall for those who want to shop for gold jewelry. The Dubai Mall Zabeel is an extension of the mall that opened in 2019, making it larger by 15,000 sq meters.
Some popular destinations for entertainment within the mall include the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and an Olympic-sized ice-skating rink. There’s also a VR Park which is the best place for those who want to experience an amalgamation of augmented reality and virtual reality.
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard
| 📍 Location | Downtown Dubai. Get Directions |
| 🚉 Getting There | The nearest bus stops is Mazaya Center – 02 |
The famous Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard is a stretch of 3.5km packed with the best cafes and restaurants in the city. You would also find several luxury retail stores lining this boulevard.
The Dubai Trolley is the world’s first hydrogen-powered trolley and is situated on this street to transport people along it. Admire their outdoor art exhibitions and the vast differences in the architecture of the traditional Arabian buildings in contrast with the modern skyscrapers that also line the street.
This boulevard is perfect to take a stroll on to experience the best of Dubai shopping, dining, culture, views, and architecture, so don’t miss out on visiting it.
Souk Al Bahar
| 📍 Location | Downtown Dubai. Get Directions |
| 🚉 Getting There | Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station |
Souk Al Bahar is a luxury Arabian market in Downtown Dubai and has over 100 shops, several casual lounges, and restaurants. Tall archways and stone pathways are lined with stores selling Arabic perfumes and spices. You can also shop for Arabian-themed decor, traditional fashion, handicraft products, and furnishings at this market.
Known as the “sailor’s market“, this marketplace is like a time machine to old Arabian heritage. It even connects to the Dubai Mall via a bridge that spans over the width of Burj Lake.
You can grab a bite to eat or a coffee at one of the cafes and restaurants situated on the waterfront of Burj Lake to enjoy some of the best views of the city, being able to admire the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa.
The Dubai Fountain
| 📍 Location | Downtown Dubai. Get Directions |
| 🚉 Getting There | Take the Dubai Metro M1 or Buses 27, 28, 29, 81 and F13. |
The Dubai Fountain is famous all around the world for its magnificent water, light, and music shows with the stunning Burj Khalifa as its backdrop. It’s located a few meters away from the Dubai Mall and is also the world’s largest choreographed system.
It shoots water 490 feet into the air, leaving onlookers in awe, and is a whopping 902 feet long. The dancing fountain plays along with delightful music in the background and different colored lights illuminating it from under, creating a feast for sore eyes like no other.
Dubai Opera
| 📍 Location | Downtown Dubai. Get Directions |
| 🚉 Getting There | Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station |
The Dubai Opera is walkable from Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard and most other iconic places in downtown Dubai. It’s a 2000-seat performing arts theatre that hosts international and local concerts often. These events include ballet, opera, musicals, concerts by international artists, and even stand-up comedy shows.
The opera itself is beautifully designed and constructed, and we highly recommend catching a show here when you visit if you can. It’s one of the most visited tourist spots in the city.
Things To Do In Dubai
Hotels In Downtown Dubai
➤ Pullman Dubai Downtown: Urban chic with panoramic city views and a rooftop pool lounge.
➤ Rove Downtown Dubai: Trendy, laid-back, and art-inspired, offering a lifestyle experience.
➤ Address Dubai Mall: Unparalleled elegance, direct mall access, and a rejuvenating spa.
➤ Taj Dubai: A fusion of Indian splendor and Arabian charm, featuring the Bombay Brasserie.
➤ Dusit Thani Dubai: Thai-inspired tranquility in the heart of Downtown with an award-winning restaurant.
Get the best deals on hotels in Downtown Dubai with CuddlyNest.
Restaurants In Downtown Dubai
🥂 Fine Dining With A View
At.Mosphere Burj Khalifa: This award-winning restaurant is located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. It offers breathtaking views of the city and a menu of modern European cuisine.
💕 Romantic Ambiance
Thiptara: This Thai restaurant is located in the Palace Downtown Hotel and offers a beautiful setting overlooking the Dubai Fountain. The menu features classic Thai dishes with a modern twist.
🌶️ South American Flavors
Asado: This popular spot serves up delicious Argentinian steaks and other grilled meats. They also have a large selection of wines from South America.
10 Best Restaurants In Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Downtown Dubai?
Downtown Dubai is a vibrant and luxurious area known for its iconic skyscrapers, world-class shopping, and stunning attractions. It is located along Sheikh Zayed Road across from the Al Wasl locality.
What are the main things to do in Downtown Dubai?
Top attractions in Downtown Dubai include visiting the Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest building), experiencing the Dubai Fountain show, shopping at the Dubai Mall, and exploring the Dubai Opera District.
How do I get to Downtown Dubai?
Downtown Dubai is easily accessible by car or metro. Sheikh Zayed Road and Al Khail Road are the main highways, and the Dubai Mall has a metro station.
How expensive is Downtown Dubai?
Downtown Dubai can be expensive, but there are options for all budgets. Consider exploring free attractions like the Dubai Fountain show and window shopping at the Dubai Mall.
Where should I stay in Downtown Dubai?
Pullman Dubai, Address Downtown Palace Downtown, Dusit Thani, and Rove Downtown are a few of the best hotels in Downtown Dubai among many!
