Dubai Tourist Attractions

According to a research by MasterCard, Dubai is one of the top 10 tourist destinations in the world with over 8 million tourists expected to visit the emirate in 2011, which is 17.3% growth over 2010. So what are the things that are attracting more and more tourists to Dubai every year? The answer lies in its well planned world-class tourism infrastructure and promotional efforts taken by the Dubai Government to develop Dubai among world's leading tourist destinations. Today, Dubai is home to the world's tallest skycraper Burj Khalifa, world's most luxurious and only 7 star hotel Burj Al Arab, world's largest shopping mall The Dubai Mall, world's largest man made islands the Palm Islands, and the world's biggest amusement park Dubailand (under construction). You will surprises to know that it is possible to enjoy skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing in Dubai which has hot arid climate. Yes Ski Dubai, the indoor ski resort, provides world-class skiing facilities. The list of Dubai tourist attractions doesn't end here. Shopping in Dubai is a major attractions for tourists looking for great dicounts on gold and diamond jewelry, branded electronics and perfumes. The annual Dubai Shopping Festival held every year in Jan-Feb and Dubai Summer Surprises (Jun- Aug) are other popular tourist attractions in Dubai attracting millions of visitors from all over the world.

Dubai also offers visitors with unique and exciting activities to indulge in, like desert safaris, wadi bashing, abra (water) ride, and helicopter sightseeing. For shopping lovers the famous gold, spice, and electronic souks (markets) offer memorable shopping experience.

Some of the must see Dubai tourist attractions are the recently opened Burj Khalifa, the world-renowned Burj Al Arab Hotel, Bur Dubai Museum, Jumeirah Beach, Grand Mosque Dubai, Dubai Creek, and the Dubai Mall.

Burj Khalifa - Truly a masterpiece of modern engineering, Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. The tower measures over 828 meters (2716.5 ft) and now also boasts the world's highest restaurant At.mosphere situated on the 122nd floor at 442 metres (1350 ft) up in the sky. What's more, you can enjoy breathtaking views of Dubai from the Burj Khalifa Observation Deck on Level 124 just for AED 100 (approx. $27) if booked online (http://www.burjkhalifa.ae/observation-deck/ticket-information.aspx) in advance. Undoubtedly, Burj Khalifa has emerged as the most popular tourist attraction in Dubai since its grand opening on 4 January 2010.

Burj Al Arab - Designed to resemble a sailing Arabian Dhow - a traditional Arab sailing vessel, the Burj Al Arab is rated as the most luxurious hotel in the world. Also regarded as the only 7 star hotel in the world, this all suite luxury hotel promises a lifetime experience for guests with its unmatched facilities and personalized services. The Burj Al Arab has emerged as the iconic symbol of Dubai and a not to miss tourist attraction in Dubai. You can enjoy this unforgettable luxury starting at AED 4118 (approx. $1121) per night if you book your room in advance. For those who can't afford to stay in Burj Al Arab, the best options to enjoy it to go for a breakfast (AED 250) at Sahn Eddar Restaurant located at first floor or enjoy an afternoon tea (AED 425 or $115) at Skyview Bar located on the 27th floor of the hotel. Don't forget to make an advance booking.

Other popular tourist spots in Dubai include Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai Museum, The Bastakiya Quarters and Hatta Heritage Village. For shopping lovers, Dubai Gold Souk and the Dubai Mall is a must visit. For families and kids, Dubai has some world-class amusement parks. The Wild Wadi Water Park, Atlantis Marine & Waterpark and Aquaventure Water Park are some of the water theme parks in Dubai that have been attracting adventure lovers. Dubai also boasts beautiful and well maintained beaches. Among popular beaches in Dubai include the Jumeirah Beach, Palm Beach, Dubai Creekside Park, and Al Mamzar Beach Park.