A Complete Guide to Visiting Dubai

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Advisor - Nicole Brewer
Curated By

Nicole Brewer

  • Dubai

  • Beaches

  • Solo Travel

  • Luxury Travel

  • Downtown

  • Shopping

  • Outdoors

Guide posing for a photo with a tower in the background
Curator’s statement

As an expat currently based in Oman, I visit Dubai often to unwind and let my hair down. Dubai is chock full of fun experiences to have, delicious food to dine on, and the most luxurious hotels to stay. You'll never have a dull experience visiting this Arabian playground.

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Where to stay in Dubai

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Things to do in Dubai

Guide posing with an indoor sculpture

Pool Day at Atlantis The Royal

Atlantis The Royal in Dubai is a luxurious and opulent hotel that offers a plethora of dining options, including Ling Ling, Gastronomy, Jaleo, Milos, Elements, and more. The hotel boasts a stunning infinity pool overlooking Palm Jumeirah and the Dubai skyline, along with a one-and-a-half-mile-long private white sand beach. I was so excited to take in the maginificient views from the infinity pool. It's the same hotel that Beyonce performed for their grand opening last year!

In addition, it is currently home to an amazing Louis Vuitton art pop-up and the pool features Dolce & Gabbana blue and white adornments. From decorative pillows to the designs, it is D&G blinged out! I had a fantastic time lounging by the pool, siping rose all day, and cooling off in the infinity pool. A day pass can booked through Cloud 22 rooftop experience.

Beach Day Pass at Atlantis the Palm

Many dream of spending a night at Atlantis, The Palm, which is a luxurious five-star hotel resort located at the apex of the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The hotel features 1,548 rooms in two accommodation wings, the East and West Tower. It is also complemented by the Aquaventure water park and the Lost Chambers Aquarium.

Atlantis, The Palm is a popular destination known for its opulence. I was excited to experience such lavishness while enjoying a day pass at White Beach. Once again I sipped on frozen cocktails, ate sushi at the restaurant nearby, and enjoyed both cooling off in the pools and the beach.

Experience the Theater of Digital Art

The Theatre of Digital Art (ToDA) in Dubai is an immersive art exhibition that combines advanced technologies and audiovisual effects to showcase classic and contemporary art pieces. Located at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, ToDA offers visitors a unique experience by blending art with modern technology and storytelling. The facility spans over 1,000 square meters and features large HD screens on its walls and floors, providing observers with a 3D view of the displays.

Furthermore, ToDA hosts a variety of multimedia exhibitions, contemporary installations, and VR-based pieces to enhance the artistic experience. Additionally, the theater offers live music nights, art and music events, and showcases various shows like "Being Van Gogh" and "Live 20s Jazz Night." I had an amazing experience and enjoyed the Live 20s Jazz show immensely.

Places to eat & drink in Dubai

Indoor reception and dining in a restaurant in Dubai

Tiffany's Blue Box Cafe Dubai Mall

The Blue Box Cafe by Tiffany & Co. is a chic dining experience located in the Dubai Mall, adjacent to the iconic jewellery brand's flagship store. The cafe, which opened in October 2023, is operated in partnership with the Dubai-based Rikas Group. It offers three exquisite culinary experiences: the famous Breakfast at Tiffany's, an afternoon Tea, and casual all-day dining. Additionally, the 38-seat dining area features a unique concrete tile floor adorned with playful multicolor accents. As well as a Tiffany Blue chandelier with suspended Tiffany Blue® boxes, and marble-clad accent walls in Tiffany Blue hues.

Nola Bijou Bistro & Bar

Nola Bijou Bistro & Bar is a restaurant and bar in Dubai that brings the taste of New Orleans to the city. The venue is known for its iconic marble-top jewel bar with intricate wood carvings, which is hand-carved by local artisans. Nola is inspired by the charm of 19th-century New Orleans, blending French influences, Caribbean energy, and Southern flair seamlessly. Nestled above Mythos Urban Greek Eatery, Nola Bijou Bistro & Bar offers a unique culinary experience that takes inspiration from the vibrant spirit of 19th-century New Orlean. I throughly enjoyed the mac & cheese as well as seafood jambalaya, even though it reminded me of a seafood paella. It was tasty nonetheless.

Advisor - Nicole Brewer

Travel Advisor

Nicole Brewer

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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Dubai. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Chiara Caremoli guide, Luxury Guide to Dubai.