Dubai
Where the desert meets ambition — the world's most spectacular city
Overview – Best Places to Visit in Dubai
Dubai is a city that defies logic — a desert settlement that became one of the world's most visited cities in under 50 years, a place of superlatives where the world's tallest tower, largest mall, and biggest indoor ski slope all coexist. For Indian travellers, Dubai is the closest international destination with a direct flight under 3 hours from most major cities, a massive Indian expat community, Indian food everywhere, and a shopping culture that feels familiar. Beyond the glitter, Dubai offers extraordinary desert safaris, a fascinating old city (Al Fahidi), world-class restaurants, and beaches that rival the Mediterranean. It is at once spectacular and comfortable — a first international trip for many Indian families.
Things to Do in Dubai
Top attractions and experiences for your Dubai tour package
Burj Khalifa
The world's tallest building at 828m. The At The Top observation deck (floors 124-125) gives a panoramic view of Dubai's skyline, desert, and coast. Sky Views (floors 148-150) is higher and more expensive. Book online in advance.
Dubai Mall
The world's largest mall by total area — 1,200 stores, a 10 million litre aquarium, an Olympic-size ice rink, and the Dubai Fountain (world's largest choreographed fountain) outside.
Desert Safari
The quintessential Dubai experience — a 4WD dune-bashing session, followed by a Bedouin camp with camel rides, henna, live music, and a BBQ dinner under the stars. Best booked for late afternoon.
Al Fahidi District
Dubai's preserved historic neighborhood with wind-tower architecture, the Dubai Museum, and abra (wooden boat) rides across the Creek — the authentic counterpoint to the gleaming towers.
Palm Jumeirah
The iconic man-made palm-shaped island with the Atlantis resort, Nakheel Mall, and some of Dubai's finest beach clubs and restaurants.
How to Reach Dubai
By Road
Not accessible.
By Air
Fly to Dubai International Airport (DXB) from Mumbai (2.5h), Delhi (3h), Chennai (4h), Bangalore (3.5h). Emirates, Air Arabia, IndiGo, Vistara, Air India all operate this route. One of the world's busiest air corridors.
By Train
Not applicable.
Dubai Trip Cost – Budget Breakdown
₹40,000–55,000 per person (budget hotel Bur Dubai, street food, Metro)
per person
₹75,000–1,10,000 per person (4-star hotel, desert safari, key attractions)
per person
₹2,00,000+ per person (5-star Burj area or Palm, fine dining, private tours)
per person
Where to Stay in Dubai
- Ibis Deira City Centre / Al Rigga area hotels
- Hyatt Place Downtown / Rove Hotels chain
- Armani Hotel Burj Khalifa / Atlantis The Palm / Burj Al Arab
Must-Try Food in Dubai
Shawarma
The ubiquitous Middle Eastern wrap — spiced chicken or lamb in flatbread with garlic sauce and pickles. ₹80–150 from street stalls across Deira and Bur Dubai.
Al Harees
A slow-cooked wheat and meat dish — traditional Emirati food served at heritage restaurants during Ramadan.
Camel Burger
A Dubai novelty — camel meat burger served at desert safari camps and some specialty restaurants. Lean and slightly gamey.
Luqaimat
Sweet fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup — the traditional Emirati dessert sold on the streets of Al Fahidi.
Indian Thali
Anywhere in Bur Dubai (Little India) — authentic Mumbai-style thali meals from ₹400–600. Often better than what you'll find in the 5-stars.
What to Buy in Dubai
Gold Souk, Deira
World's largest gold market — jewellery, bullion, watches. Bargaining expected.
Spice Souk, Deira
Saffron, dried limes, frankincense, zaatar, Arabic coffee
Dubai Mall
All global luxury brands, electronics, fashion — fixed price
Global Village (Oct–April)
Products from 90+ countries in national pavilions — great for souvenirs
Dubai Travel Guide – Tips & Advice
- 1Book Burj Khalifa tickets online 2–3 days in advance — walk-up tickets cost 3x more
- 2Dress modestly in heritage areas (Al Fahidi, mosques) — full coverage required
- 3Uber and Careem are reliable and metered — far cheaper than hotel taxis
- 4The Dubai Metro covers most tourist areas including the Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, and Gold Souk
- 5Bargaining is expected in the Gold Souk and Spice Souk — start at 50% of the asking price
- 6Dubai has 0% income tax and 5% VAT — prices are already competitive. Don't haggle at malls or restaurants.
- 7Alcohol is served in hotels and licensed venues — it is legal but not available in souks or public areas
Dubai FAQs – Dubai Tour Package Questions
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