A Guide to Downtown Dubai
11 December 2024
Dubai is one of the world’s largest tourism and business destinations, drawing millions each year. If you’re coming down to Dubai sometime soon and wish to find accommodation in the premier zones, Downtown Dubai makes it an amazing choice.
One of the best parts about the area is its higher concentration of accommodation. Downtown is near landmarks like the Dubai Mall and Fountain, along with the Burj Khalifa. These properties come with fabulous amenities at competitive rates. At the same time, you’ll also find them flexible enough for both long and short-term stays.
You’ll also find multiple things to do in the area.
- It’s just 8 km from the lovely Dubai Creek and there is easy connectivity through the Burj Khalifa or Dubai Mall metro station Red Line).
- Then there’s the F13 bus and other routes available as well.
- At the same time, it’s connected through the Sheikh Zayed and Al Khail Roads in addition to the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashif Boulevard.
- Let’s now look a little more closely at the area and all it has to offer.
Top Things to Do in Downtown Dubai
There are quite a few things to do in Downtown Dubai, including the following:
1. Burj Khalifa
It’s not the world’s tallest building for nothing! Check out this must-visit architectural marvel and enjoy the amazing views At The Top. 2,700 feet and 160 stories- the facts alone are enough to dazzle you!
Tip: Consider visiting between 4 and 6 PM for the best experiences.
2. Dubai Mall
Don’t miss one of the biggest malls in the world on your trip. Some of its biggest attractions include the awe-inspiring Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo in addition to an indoor ice rink, go-karting, flight simulation, and more. Check out many amazing stores including top names like Louis Vuitton, Prada, and plenty more. If you love your food, you’ll find several options available.
Tip: Visit during the Dubai Shopping Festival (December-February) is ideal for getting fabulous discounts.
3. Dubai Fountain
How about visiting the world’s tallest performing fountain? One of the names that automatically make it to the Dubai best places to visit list, the Dubai Fountain is nestled within the Burj Lake and offers amazing water, light and musical performances from 6 PM onwards (each show takes about 30 minutes) every day.
Tips: You can watch illuminated water jets going up to 500 feet in coordination with diverse musical notes from several places at the Souk Al Bahar, which has several waterside lounges and restaurants.
4. Dubai Opera
In case you want to spend your Downtown Dubai night uniquely, check out the stunning Dubai Opera with its multiple productions, comedies, plays, ballet shows, and a lot more.
5. Dubai Water Canal
It is one of the most eco-friendly projects in town, covering a 12 km cycling track and a 3 km running track. There’s also a waterfall within the man-made attraction covering 64 km to the Arabian Gulf from Old Dubai.
Tips: You can take in lovely views of the pedestrian bridges here, particularly after 6 PM.
6. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
If you’re done with downtown shopping at the Dubai Mall, hop over to this mega attraction here. It is one of the biggest indoor aquariums worldwide, with an Underwater Zoo that will get you up close with piranhas, penguins, jellyfish and more. Marine enthusiasts will fall in love with the place for sure.
Best Restaurants in Downtown Dubai
You’ll discover several charming restaurants in Downtown Dubai. The area offers diverse and exciting culinary delights.
- If you want dining with a view, then the Address Sky View Hotel is a must-visit for the CE LA VI restaurant with its Asian treats.
- Fouquet’s will also please you with its amazing French dishes, while Jun’s offers eclectic treats to satiate every palate.
- Theatrical dining comes alive at Krasota while 99 Sushi is great for Japanese food.
- The Dubai Mall is famous for Le Maison Ani (Fench-Mediterranean) while the Souk Al Bahar also has the Time Out Market.
- For Thai, head to Thiptara and feast on the roast red duck curry here.
And if you don’t want to dine out each day and cook healthy meals yourself, use the kitchen at your serviced apartment. These properties usually offer well-equipped kitchens with all the necessary appliances.
Downtown Dubai Shopping Spree
Here’s where you can shop to your heart’s content.
Dubai Mall
1,200 stores and the biggest global names in fashion headline the Dubai Mall. Anchor stores include Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale’s while there are 150+ shopping-dining choices available.
Soul Al Bahar
You’ll enjoy exploring this charming market (right next to the Dubai Mall). Discover more than 100 stores with plenty of cafes and eateries for the company. The Time Out Market is also a must-visit here.
Downtown Dubai at Night
Downtown Dubai becomes a magical place each night, with its vibrant nightlife options. Catch a performance at the Dubai Opera or go on a relaxing walk beside the Dubai Canal. You can also check out the massive Aquarium or shop and dine at the Dubai Mall. The options are endless.
A few other places worth visiting include the Buhayra and Calabar lounges along with Atmosphere (Burj Khalifa) and Above Dubai. You can also try the Level 43 Sky Lounge or the Four Seasons’ Mercury Lounge. There are plenty of restaurants and clubs worth checking out here.
Want to stay near all the action? Go for a serviced apartment that is centrally located. You’ll find several amazing properties in the area with ease.
Top Places to Visit in Dubai
There are numerous serviced apartments with central locations in the Downtown Dubai zone. This will make it convenient for you to explore multiple landmarks:
1. JBR
The Walk is one of the most charming things you can experience in Dubai. Enjoy strolling along the beautiful boulevard with its arcades, plazas and restaurants. At the same time, there are numerous events taking place in the area too (post-sunset).
2. KidZania
This is one of the topmost attractions for kids between the ages of 4 and 16. Spend a day with the family here, checking out the real-world simulations, play areas and activities here.
3. Burj Park
You’ll find the park really vibrant with its food trucks and multiple events throughout the year. It is linked to Downtown through bridges and offers a running track as well. Catch the lovely sunset by visiting between 4 and 6 PM.
4. Dubai Frame
The majestic Dubai Frame offers stunning experiences with glass elevators and walkways along with fabulous views right from the top (almost up to 500 feet)..
5. Sconci Art Gallery
In case you really love art, you’ll appreciate this quaint gallery with its rare works by icons like Carlo Morganti and Antonio Corpora.
Conclusion
It is quite clear that Downtown Dubai will be a refreshing experience for any traveller. You’ll also find everything you need, right from tourist spots and great amenities, to top-class transportation and nightlife. You can take a look at Downtown Dubai apartments in case you want quality accommodation, complete with top amenities and attractive rates.
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