Downtown Dubai, where the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, and Dubai Mall are located, is considered the business and commercial centre of the city, offering the best of the city’s shopping and entertainment.
Dubai Marina is by far the best area to stay for entertainment after dark. The marina is populated with licensed hotels and nightclubs featuring rooftop bars, which provide an impressive backdrop for a night to remember.
Jumeirah Beach Residence, meanwhile, is much quieter and more family-oriented. Accommodation here provides easy access to beaches and water parks during the day, and scenic waterfront restaurants at night for the foodies.
To immerse in a more historic and cultural side to Dubai, replace skyrise buildings for souks and mosques by staying in the inner-city suburbs of Dubai Creek, Bur Dubai, or Al Fahidi.
Dubai is also known for its purpose-built vacation islands, including Palm Jumeirah, Pearl Jumeirah, Daria Island, and the Burj Al Arab, which feature all inclusive resorts with their own restaurants, bars, waterparks, and more.
Dubai is connected by the Dubai Metro, which links each of its inner-city neighbourhoods. It is also cheap to travel by taxi, but traffic in the city can be congested at peak times.
