Dubai is the Most Populous City in the United Arab Emirates

With more than three and a half million residents, Dubai is the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates — and easily its most visited. What began as a small pearl-diving settlement on the banks of Dubai Creek has become one of the fastest-growing cities in the world, welcoming millions of travellers every year.

A city of records

Dubai loves superlatives. It is home to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building on Earth, the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping destinations anywhere, and the Dubai Frame, a golden picture frame the size of a skyscraper that looks out over both the old and the new city. Even a simple evening walk at Dubai Marina puts you in the middle of the world's largest man-made marina.

If observation decks are your thing, secure your Burj Khalifa ticket in advance — sunset slots sell out days ahead in the busy season.

Old Dubai is still here

Beyond the glass towers, the city keeps its history close. The Al Fahidi historical neighbourhood, the spice and gold souks of Deira, and the wooden abras crossing the Creek all feel a world away from Downtown — yet they are fifteen minutes apart. A half-day city tour is the easiest way to see both faces of Dubai in one morning.

When to visit

• October to March — the golden months: warm days, cool evenings, perfect for desert trips and outdoor dining.
• April to September — hot, but hotel prices drop and indoor attractions (aquariums, malls, waterparks) are in full swing.

Getting the most from a short stay

Most visitors give Dubai three to five days. A comfortable rhythm looks like this: one day for Downtown and the Burj Khalifa, one day for the beach and Marina, one evening in the desert, and one morning in Old Dubai. The desert evening is the one guests talk about for years — dune bashing at golden hour, a camel ride, and a BBQ dinner under the stars on an evening desert safari.

However you plan it, Dubai rewards a little preparation: book the big attractions ahead, keep evenings free for the outdoors, and leave one gap in the schedule — this city always finds a way to fill it.