Osobase& Zainab
Things To Do
The Dubai Frame
Designed to represent a metaphorical connection between the old and new city, Dubai Frame is said to be the largest picture frame in the world. The giant, glistening gold frame stands nearly 500 feet tall and boasts panoramic glass lifts that shuttle guests to the top, where they can walk on a clear glass walkway along the entire 313-foot width.
Global Village
Dubai's massive Global Village is essentially a theme park for all ages, though it's popular with families as the rides and attractions are kid-friendly. Open November through early May, it features concerts, rides, dining, and attractions from around the world. It's on the outskirts of Dubai, so don't think you can pack it into a city-centric day, but if you have time and are interested in some global shopping and entertainment, it's worth a visit.
Burj Khalifa
The world's tallest building is, unsurprisingly, visible from almost everywhere in Dubai. Taking in the site is thrilling enough from the street, but you can also visit the top of the 160-story behemoth—brace yourself for the thrill of the high-speed elevators, followed by complete awe the moment you step onto the observation deck. Buy tickets online in advance for a specific time slot. Most first-time visitors to Dubai go to the top.
Al Fahidi Historical District (Bastakiya)
This quaint neighborhood offers a glimpse into what Dubai was like before the Emirates were formed in 1971. Traditional buildings crafted from stone, palm wood, gypsum, and teak line the twisted alleys and pathways—history and architecture buffs will love getting lost here. The neighborhood is a quiet retreat from the traffic and skyscrapers of the city, and the labyrinth of lanes make this place feel like you're in a secluded village.
Dubai Spice Souk Entrance
Dubai's sprawling spice market is arguably the most entertaining of all the city's souks. It's bustling, with intoxicating sights and smells. Many of the vendors sell the same ingredients—Persian dried limes, saffron, barberries, rose hips, and traditional Middle Eastern spice mixes. Saffron, while still pricey, is more affordable here than elsewhere in Dubai. Part of a complex that features three Jumeirah hotels and an adjoining waterway, the souk has stalls selling everything from the spices, to handmade lanterns, clothes, souvenirs, and everything in between. There are also two-dozen restaurants, indoor and out, not to mention some of the most spectacular views of the world-famous Burj Al Arab hotel.
Aquaventure Waterpark
Now considered the world’s largest waterpark thanks to its recent extension, the venue has expanded by a third. Trident Tower, its newest arm, features the largest kids-only waterparks in the Middle East—Splashers Lagoon and Splashers Cove. Aquaventure contains more than 30 slides and attractions, including the emirates' longest lazy river, some thrilling rides (including the Leap of Faith and Poseidon's Retreat), and a private beach. There are also record-breaking waterslides to get the adrenaline pumping; Splashers Park and the Lazy River for families; and opportunities that encourage up-close-and-personal interactions with stingrays, dolphins, and sea lions.
The Dubai Mall
As the largest mall in the world, the Dubai Mall draws in almost 100 million visitors a year. It's easy to get lost—there are more than 1,200 shops, after all—but a great place to beat the Dubai heat and ogle at the luxury stores. The place draws in more tourists from around the world than both New York City and Los Angeles so it's safe to say, everyone comes here.
Jumeirah Mosque
As the only mosque in Dubai that's open to non-Muslim visitors, the Jumeirah Mosque is popular with a range of travelers—it's also the most photographed. The mosque is easily one of the most beautiful in the Emirate, crafted entirely from white stone in the medieval Fatimid style. It's particularly breathtaking at dusk. Visitors are allowed in six days a week, and tours are led by knowledgable guides who make the experience.
The Dubai Fountain
The world's tallest fountain puts the ones in Vegas to shame. Multiple fountain shows are scheduled every day, shooting 22,000 gallons of water up 500 feet in the air within the 30-acre Burj Lake. Plus, a new floating viewing platform means you can get much closer to the action than before. Even better, it's free. If you visit the Dubai Mall, you'll likely see the fountains while you're there, so pause for a moment and enjoy the show.
AlShindagha Museum
Positioned on the Dubai Creek within the recently renovated Al Shindagha neighborhood (once the traditional center of the emirate), the Perfume House offers the opportunity to travel back in time and discover the ages-old methods of Arabic perfume-making. You'll learn about the region’s perfume-trading route and explore the traditional oils and ingredients used to make local scents (including oud, saffron, and specific roses).
Dubai Miracle Garden
Over 72,000 square metres, making it the world's largest natural flower garden, featuring over 50 million flowers and 250 million plants.