---
node: dest_dubai
type: destination
slug: dubai
title: "Dubai"
lead: "Dubai is the glittering showpiece of the United Arab Emirates, a desert city that built the world's tallest tower and islands shaped like palms. It pairs record-breaking modern spectacle with old trading souks along its creek."
published: 2026-08-10
updated: 2026-08-10
image_file: dubai.jpg
image_source: "https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Dubai_Skyline_mit_Burj_Khalifa_(18241030269).jpg"
image_author: "Tim Reckmann from Hamm, Deutschland"
image_license: "CC BY 2.0"
---

## Overview

In a single generation Dubai grew from a small Gulf trading port into a global city of skyscrapers, malls and man-made islands, driven by trade, tourism and ambition rather than oil alone. The modern city runs along the coast in a line of towers, beaches and marinas, while the old town of Deira and Bur Dubai keeps its souks and the working boats of Dubai Creek. Hot for much of the year and mild in winter, it trades on shopping, superlatives and the desert at its edge.

## Highlights

The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, rises over the Dubai Mall and its fountains, and the Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina show off the new city. Across the creek, the gold and spice souks and a traditional abra boat ride recall the trading town. Desert safaris by dune buggy or camel, the beaches and the ski slope inside a mall round out a stay.