Dubai is a city that dazzles at every turn, blending ultramodern architecture with rich cultural traditions. For first-time visitors, understanding its unique mix of luxury, innovation, and heritage can make a trip smoother and more enjoyable. From navigating sprawling malls and towering skyscrapers to exploring traditional souks and desert landscapes, Dubai offers experiences for every kind of traveller. Knowing the local customs, transportation options, climate considerations, and key attractions in advance ensures that newcomers can make the most of this vibrant and ever-evolving city.
1. Take a ride on the Ain Dubai
A visit to Dubai isn’t complete without experiencing the Ain Dubai. After extensive renovations, it reopened in December 2024 and has quickly become one of the city’s top attractions. Standing 250 meters (820 feet) tall, the Ain Dubai is the world’s largest observation wheel. A full rotation takes around 38 minutes, offering spectacular views of the Dubai Marina skyline, Palm Jumeirah, and the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf.
2. Take a Food Tour (or two)
There are several food tours to choose from, but for first-time visitors, the Dubai Souks and Creekside Food Walk comes highly recommended. This tour guides you through the bustling souks of Old Dubai, where you can sample local delicacies—from freshly baked flatbreads to sweet Iranian desserts—while learning about the city’s rich culture and history. This thoughtfully designed tour goes beyond the usual tourist paths, offering a unique opportunity to explore the heart of Dubai and gain a deeper appreciation of its vibrant cuisine, heritage, and traditions.
3. Visit the Dubai Mall
No trip to Dubai is complete without exploring the Dubai Mall—and it’s far from your average shopping centre. Spanning 12 million square feet, it houses over 1,200 shops, 200 dining options, and a host of attractions, many of which are completely free. A top highlight is Chinatown, filled with picture-perfect corners and authentic Chinese street food. Don’t miss the chance to spot marine life outside the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo – it’s one of the most interesting things to do in Downtown Dubai before you head back to your stay at Anantara Downtown Dubai.
4. Explore Old Dubai
Many first-time visitors gravitate toward Dubai’s modern icons, often missing the charm of Old Dubai. Yet this area is where the city’s true character shines through. Setting aside a few hours to wander its streets is genuinely rewarding, offering a glimpse into Dubai’s roots and cultural heritage. Key highlights include strolling past the heritage-inspired architecture of Al Seef and exploring the historic lanes of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.
5. Zip over the Marina
Known as the world’s longest urban zipline, it sends you soaring a full kilometre across the Marina at speeds reaching 80 km/h. Before launching from one of the area’s tallest towers, you’ll take in sweeping views of the Arabian Sea and Marina. The experience also includes photos and videos of your flight, making it even more memorable. For those craving a bit of adrenaline, ziplining over the Dubai Marina is an unforgettable option. XLine is the sole provider of this experience.
