9 seriously cool places to hang out in Dubai

9 seriously cool places to hang out in Dubai

Updated: November 2020

A modern metropolis that is home to some of the most iconic architectural marvels in the world, Dubai has a pulsating day and nightlife, with numerous options for people who're looking to enjoy a lively, action-packed vacation. During the winter months, when the patio cafes, al fresco restaurants, rooftop bars and beach clubs are in full swing, the city comes to life with the sort of energy that is palpable yet hard to replicate. Here's a list of some seriously cool places to hang out in Dubai, if you are looking to become a part of the buzzing city life here.

Enhance your experience by opting for a professional chauffeur service, which offers a touch of luxury and convenience for exploring these amazing spots, making your journey through the city as memorable as the destinations themselves.


#1 Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid (Emaar) Boulevard

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard located in the Dubai Downtown area has proved to be an excellent alternative to  Souk Al Bahar (in Dubai Downtown) with the variety of eating options available. It's a street decorated with well-lit up trees and lined with al fresco cafes and restaurants. Even some hotel chains have come up offering amazing lounges, views of Burj Khalifa and superb ambiance.  Simply saunter down the boulevard from the Dubai Mall or you could hop on the Dubai Trolley from Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountains area to come to the Boulevard. From local to international chains, this is one of the upcoming, trendy and uniquely cool places to hang out in Dubai.

Insider tips: One of the interesting places to watch out here is the Dubai Opera. For food, Reem Al Bawadi is an amazing Arabic restaurant and Royal Orchid has great Asian fare.


#2 Marina Walk

This is easily one of my favourite cool places to hang out in Dubai. You can walk amidst towering skyscrapers on one side and the green canal waters lined with yachts on the other, or choose to sit back and relax on one of the patio shisha cafes while sipping on refreshing mocktails. A very chic place with numerous dining, leisure and entertainment options, Marina Walk extends to about 3.5 kms from one end to the other and has many diverse areas that you can explore, such as Dubai Marina Mall, The Address Hotel, Marina Plaza and Pier 7, a multi-storey tower focusing on providing superlative dining experiences.

Insider tips: For some amazing views of Dubai Marina from a height and extremely good Pan-Asian cuisine, Asia Asia on Pier 7 is an excellent choice. Two of my favourite lounges offering breathtaking views with shisha as well as interesting cocktails are Shades at The Address Hotel and Atelier at Pier 7.

Read about What you must know BEFORE travelling to the UAE


#3 Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR) Walk

Not too far from Dubai Marina is another one of the cool places to hang out in Dubai. Jumeirah Beach Residences, better known as JBR Walk, is Dubai's version of South Beach, Miami. Dubai's most extravagant and flashy crowd, with swanky cars that'll make your jaw drop, can be seen here. A gold-plated Rolls Royce can be spotted on certain days, parked in front of one of the hotels. A stone-paved path, alfresco cafes, and restaurants with beach dining, bars and lounges with beachside parties, open-air cinema with bean bags, chic and fashionable shops as well as a 'Beach Mall' are a few things that'll spark your interest here.

During the day, you can enjoy some water activities at the inflatable water park, just off The Beach, JBR. In the winter months, this is one lively and crowded place. A recent development, visible from here, is the upcoming Bluewater Island, which will feature the Ferris Wheel or Dubai Eye, considered to be one of the largest of its kinds in the world. A modern tramway system is a perfect way to get to JBR Walk, avoiding the jam-packed streets. This shopping and dining destination, which is also great for nightlife, is one you cannot miss!

Insider tips: Between November - April, you will often find an outdoor artisan market with food stalls, and art & craft vendors at The Beach. You're spoiled for choice when it comes to gourmet food and some of my favorite restaurants here are PF Changs for Chinese, Busaba Ethai for Thai cuisine and Bosporus for Turkish fare. For shisha lovers, Smoky Beach is a great option to enjoy a chilled out vibe with unique flavours, right on the shore.


#4 Madinat Jumeirah

I love this place because of the eclectic mix of the old (architecture) and the new (bars, restaurants, nightlife). Madinat Jumeirah is a hotel complex which comprises of 3 luxurious hotels, a bunch of bars and lounges, a souk, beachside and other fine dining options and a lovely meandering canal which connects all these places, which can be visited by an abra or simply enjoying a nice walk on the pathways.

Some areas, especially the beach and fine-dining restaurants, are accessible only if you have a reservation or are a hotel guest. However, most of the outlets are open to the public. Be it during the day or at night, this place is always buzzing with events that'll capture your interest, cocktail concoctions that'll amaze you and variety of food options. It is one of my favourite places to hang out in Dubai.

Insider tips: Cocktail lovers must try the Tiki Puca Puca at Trader Vic's. On-site is also one of the best spas you'll find in town, Talise Spa. Opt for a Yoga session by the beach or simply enjoy a massage treatment in one of their luxurious private rooms. If you like Thai food, Pai Thai is a great choice: amazing food and the perfect setting, on a wooden platform right over the canal. If you're happy to shell out some bucks for a luxurious dining experience, Pierchic will not disappoint you. Situated (as the name) on a pier jutting out into the sea with unparalleled views of Burj Al Arab, this place is a seafood lover's haven but stands out more for its setting and brilliant views.

Read about 15 amazing things you can do for FREE in Dubai.


#5 Citywalk

An area that has come up only recently, Citywalk is unlike any other place in Dubai. Set in the backdrop of Burj Khalifa, this place has numerous patio cafes, food trucks, miniature buses (for children), gaming outlets (such as Hub Zero and Mattel Playtown), ice cream vendors, retail outlets, a cinema and so much more! It is a lively place to hang out, especially for families, with a very London-like feel. However, none of the restaurants here serve alcohol (there are no bars and lounges). Nevertheless, the food and entertainment options available make for Citywalk to be one of the cool places to hang out in Dubai.

Insider tips: For fusion Indian food, Farzi Cafe is a must-visit. Not only is surprisingly reasonably priced, the food is finger-licking good, with very creative combinations, suitable for all types of palates. Green Planet is yet another interesting concept, an immersive vertical indoor tropical forest with exotic flora and fauna.


#6 Jumeirah Kite Beach

Jumeirah Kite Beach is one of the best public beaches in the city, set against the backdrop of Burj Al Arab. Although there are no lounges or shacks here serving alcohol, many restaurants and cafes line the white sandy beach, offering fresh juice, snacks and seafood, with amazing views of the colourful kites in the green waters. A walking/ running path, water sports, sun loungers with umbrellas, beach volley and other activities make this beach a fun one to spend time at and the only such public beach in the area. During January/ February every year, Dubai's Food Festival sees the springing up of Etisalat Beach Canteen, a temporary street food set up right on the white sands, with live music, bean bags and beach sports. This is what makes it one of the coolest places to hang out in Dubai.

Insider tips: Stationed right next to the Kite Beach is the popular casual dining destination, a food truck called Salt. Although slightly expensive, their contemporary-styled burgers are a must-try!

Jumeirah Beach

Read an interesting post on How to experience 15 world records in 4 days in the UAE.


#7 The Last Exit

The concept of street food and food trucks is fairly new to Dubai and unfortunately, due to an unbearably warm summer, it is only in the six winter months that you'll find people swarming to outdoor places to enjoy the cool weather. From November - April, many events, and festivals focusing on street food take place. However, The Last Exit is not a temporary set up, it is a place dedicated to food trucks and street food lovers, beautifully decorated with lights, light and soothing music playing on the loudspeakers and the option of drive-in as well as dining area for the visitors. It is a one-of-its-kind place to hang out in Dubai.

As the name suggests, The Last Exit is a themed food truck concept that is usually found at the last exit of a highway in the UAE. At the moment, we have four existing Last Exits and the largest one is on the Sheikh Zayed Road (E11), on the way from Dubai to Abu Dhabi.

Planning a short trip? Here's your guide to a quick 4-day itinerary for Dubai & Abu Dhabi.


#8 Al Bastakiya

Al Bastakiya is one of the most unique places to hang out in Dubai. Also known as Al Fahidi Historical district, although most people come here to experience the heritage of Dubai in a place that is designed like an open-air museum, with old-age architecture, wind towers, and several cultural displays as well as art galleries, what makes this place seriously cool are the cute courtyard and terrace cafes that you'll find here. Just allow yourself to get lost in the lanes and explore the area without any agenda - you'll stumble upon restaurants built inside heritage houses, cafes with bean bags, courtyards converted into reading spaces and boutiques.

places to hang out in Dubai

Insider tips: Right across the creek, you'll find the famous Gold & Spice souks, which are accessible by the traditional 'abras' on the creek. While in Al Bastakiya, do look for Make Art Cafe, one of the coolest places to hang out in the area, a cafe built in the courtyard of a heritage house which also has a bookshop, a rooftop relaxing area, a boutique and handmade souvenirs shop. If you're looking for the perfect Arabian food in a cosy ambience, Arabian Tea House is a fantastic one.


#9 La Mer

La Mer was opened quite recently and has become one of the most happening places to hang out in Dubai. A beachside stretch of numerous cafes, restaurants, bars, boutique shops, and even a waterpark, La Mer is buzzing during the day as well as at night. A very contemporary and minimalistic design, white sands and the blue ocean, beach loungers (although expensive), bars playing live music, food trucks serving street food, cool street art, fairy lights, watersports during the day (paddle boarding, kayaking, etc) and terrace cafes offering superb views of Dubai's skyline are all reasons why this relatively new destination has become one of the local's and tourists' favourite places to hang out in Dubai.

places to hang out in Dubai

Insider tips: Although it is rare to find places serving alcohol in Dubai unless they're a part of a hotel, La Mer has some restaurants which have a liquor license. Stars and Bars, located at one end of the stretch, is one with a really cool vibe, rustic seating, live performances on the weekend and some decent cocktails. For authentic and good Arabic food, Zouzou is a great option and Masti is a popular one for cocktails and fusion Indian food with a chilled-out vibe. La Mer also has a small waterpark called Laguna Waterparka great way to spend some time if you love slides, lazy rivers and lounging.


BONUS

#10 The Pointe

A fairly new addition to Dubai's already pulsating hangout scene, The Pointe is located in one of the most luxurious neighborhoods of the city, The Palm. With the iconic Atlantis hotel in the backdrop, the blue waters of the ocean and the monorail that connects over the sea, not only does the place make for some really instagrammable spots but the boardwalk is a nice place to enjoy an evening walk. Several restaurants and cafes line the promenade, while the key spot is the small sandy beach that offers free bean bags right on the shore and with head-on visibility of the Atlantis Hotel. Undoubtedly one of the best places to catch the sunset, this is also where all the live entertainment and events take place during the weekends.

Very recently, The Pointe became home to the World's Largest Fountain, with shows taking place daily, from sunset to midnight.

Insider tips: Adventure junkies and active families can try out the aqua-cycle or book a kayaking/ stand-up paddle boarding experience through Yellow Boats. Foodies can head to Chuan for fresh seafood with amazing views, and A Cappella for cocktails.

You can also find here a detailed guide on Where to stay and things to do in Dubai.


Looking for a hotel in Dubai? Click here to find your best options.

Comments:

  • October 7, 2023

    Hey Medha

    Dubai is indeed a city of endless excitement and these seriously cool places to hang out add a whole new dimension to its vibrant lifestyle. Whether it’s strolling down Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, enjoying the chic ambiance of Marina Walk, or immersing yourself in the old-meets-new charm of Madinat Jumeirah, there’s something for everyone. And who can resist the allure of Jumeirah Kite Beach with its stunning views and vibrant atmosphere?

    The Last Exit’s food truck concept and Al Bastakiya’s historic charm provide unique experiences, while La Mer’s modern beachside vibe and The Pointe’s luxurious setting add even more diversity to Dubai’s social scene. It’s a city that truly never sleeps, offering unforgettable moments at every corner.

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  • Tam Tran

    June 12, 2020

    Hey!
    Didn’t expect I would end up being here! Dubai is like a giant Disney Land (in a good way), I personally enjoy The Last Exit the most! Especially the Dubai – Abu Dhabi way, there are many cars from the movie Mad Max, totally instagrammable!

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  • December 13, 2017

    I always have stopovers in Dubai but never succeed in exploring the place! I would love to visit Madinat Jumeirah. It looks like a cool and happening place <3

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  • Jennifer Melroy

    December 13, 2017

    Dubai is such an unique city. I wish they had more of their history as a pearl market and spice trade on display.

    These are great for the person exploring the city’s food and shopping options. I loved getting to eat all the amazing food around the city.

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  • December 13, 2017

    I had a layover in Dubai last April. Unfortunately, I was not able to go out of the airport but staying there for hours made me decide that I will go back and explore and I think I know where to go when I get there! Thanks for sharing and your photos are on point! They show how fancy and beautiful Dubai is.

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  • December 12, 2017

    So when I eventually get around to coming to Dubai, you’re going to be my tour guide and show me all these places you’ve mentioned right? haha 😀 – There really some incredibly cool places to see and do in Dubai and I know I say this all the time in your Dubai posts but I still can’t believe I’ve never been.

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  • December 10, 2017

    Only been to the Dubai airport, passing through, and never thought about visiting the city. But these places you show here look amazing. Would love to do the Marina Walk. Also, great insider tips! 😉

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  • December 10, 2017

    Great post! I don’t know much about Dubai but I definitely know it’s worth the visit. Will probably come back to this post when I’m doing my research to go!

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  • December 10, 2017

    It always amazes me the shear size of the desert in the UAE. Having only been there on short stop overs I am yet to discover things to do and see there. Now I can just imagine grabbing a bite to eat at a local food truck and making my way to the beach. Thanks for sharing.

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  • December 10, 2017

    Medha, We’ve been wanting to visit Dubai! Some friends of ours just went. Sounds awesome and like there are a lot of things to do there (and yummy food like the Salt food truck). We hope to go someday and visit Kite beach that you mentioned. Thanks for the great tips!

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  • December 6, 2017

    Just by the pictures of Dubai, one can guess how cool and stylish the place would be. I am personally more interested in visiting the heritage sector of Dubai. Hope I am able to make it in 2018.

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  • November 18, 2017

    This is a super cool list. I was in Dubai only during a layover. Now I plan to be there for few nights. Would keep this list handy.

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  • November 15, 2017

    I live in the lovely city of Dubai and you have chosen a great selection of places to go. I always take guests to the Madinat and Kite Beach. There’s obviously so many more, I do love visiting Old Dubai too. Also, there are so many pop up events in the Winter 🙂

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  • November 15, 2017

    I never think of places to just “hang out” in Dubai. It always seems like all you read about are the action-packed places you mentioned above. Thanks for showing the other side of Dubai. I’d love to relax at Madinat Jumeirah. It seems wonderful.

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  • November 14, 2017

    We love “street food” everywhere we go. That will have to be a stop or maybe two. Love the night photos.

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  • November 14, 2017

    Loved your photos of Dubai: they are different from the usual ones with the high rise buildings and make the city look a lot more appealing to me! I like your insider tips too: the artisan market sounds amazing.

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  • November 14, 2017

    I love Madinat Jumeriah too! Great spot to catch a glimpse of Burj Al Arab. I’ve been to Dubai twice but only for a couple days stopover. So I haven’t reall explored them all. Next time I will surely check on Citywalk and the Last Exit

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  • November 14, 2017

    Dubai at night really stands out! I’d totally be up for that Marina Walk, it’s the perfect length and would certainly showcase much of the marina and downtown area. The level of wealth here is off the charts!

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  • November 13, 2017

    These are seriously awesome places to hang out in Dubai. Looking a bit artificial, but I suppose it’s just because it’s all so new. One of these days I’ll actually get out of the airport and make the layover worth my while to see for myself!

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  • November 13, 2017

    Dubai sounds so exotic, but then sort of seems a lot like Las Vegas. It sounds like there is no shortage of things to do and places to eat! Hopefully someday I can see for myself!

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  • November 13, 2017

    I always associate Dubai with the grand luxury hotels buts its great to see some more casual things to do and see. Are there kitesurfers at Jumeirah Kite Beach?

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  • November 12, 2017

    I’ve flown through Dubai between Australia and Europe, but never felt inclined to stop in such a big city. This post has given me a better insight – it’s not just high-rises. There are canals, beaches, food trucks and so much more. Maybe next time I’ll stop for a few days and check it out.

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  • November 12, 2017

    We’ve flown through Dubai several times but never made the time to stop and explore the city. Your list of 7 cool places to hang out in Dubai convinced me to do things differently the next time we fly with Emirates. The Marina Walk and Madinat Jumeirah look like something our family would enjoy.

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  • November 12, 2017

    I love how it’s never dark even at night. Dubai keeps the place well-illuminated with all the lights. My friend who lives there has told me you’ll never have a hard time driving at night. Love the mix of city life and beach, too!

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  • November 12, 2017

    The more I read about Dubai the more I am eager to visit. I usually go to quaint places but I’ve read a couple of posts now that are really selling the place to me! I know that the kids would go there tomorrow, I just have to convince hubby! I’ll get him to read this post!

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  • November 12, 2017

    Fantastic post and a useful guide here. I am hoping to visit Dubai soon and there are a few places on here I havent even heard off and now I want to check them out.

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  • November 11, 2017

    I’ve never been to Dubai, but I would definitely add these to my list.

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  • November 8, 2017

    Have transited a few times through Dubai but not visited it. Have been planning a trip for some time now, but have not been able to make it as yet. Dubai is a fascinating blend of the past, present, and future. There are so many avenues of experiences for young and old alike. These are some lovely places to hang out when in Dubai. Citywalk seems to be the best area to hang around with the family.

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  • November 8, 2017

    I got friends in Dubai and planning to pay them a visit soon. I will keep it quiet and see if they will end up bringing me to the spots you just mentioned. I would be curious to see what they would recommend as a top sights list in Dubai.

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  • November 7, 2017

    The skyline images just look ridiculously cool! Plus you had me at pan-Asian cuisine, I do miss the food out there.
    The Last Exit sounds really good as well, always love trying the street food when visiting a country

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  • November 7, 2017

    The Marina walk seems very “tourist-y” and iconic of Dubai (modern, high class, skyscrapers) but I prefer something like the Citywalk. Patio cafes and food trucks? I’m good!

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  • Megan Jerrard

    November 7, 2017

    I personally love the Marina Walk – I enjoy fantasizing what it would be like to own one of those Yatchs, and Asia Asia is one of my favorites too. Madinat Jumeirah too though – I love it’s old architecture, so was glad to see both included on your list!

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  • November 7, 2017

    Everything in Dubai looks so spiffy and shiny. Like Switzerland on steroids (or camel milk). Where I live, in Portland, Oregon, food carts are huge, so street food would be something I’d try in Dubai as well.

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  • November 6, 2017

    Wow! All these places offer such a different vibe than what I’m used to seeing from Dubai! I’m seriously intrigued.

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  • November 5, 2017

    Some great photos – Dubai is full of awesome places to hang out, hoping to head out there next year!

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  • November 5, 2017

    Amazing list. We are planning a second trip to Dubai, and I’ve bookmarked this list.

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  • Followingtherivera

    November 5, 2017

    I’ve never been really interested in seeing Dubai, just been there for a stopover. However, after your post, I’d like to give it a chance. The Last Exit sounds great, I love an outdoor food court, and the Marina looks so pretty!

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  • November 5, 2017

    My favorite is the JBR with so many 3d canvas paints. I wasn’t able to visit Kite beach on my last visit since it was so humid ?

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  • November 5, 2017

    Everything about your post shows Dubai to be an exciting place to visit! It’s on our list and I hope to go soon. The city walk looks beautiful! Thank you all the information.

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  • November 4, 2017

    I cannot believe how much Dubai has changed in the nine years since I was last there. Half of this stuff was not there then but I did love the Madinat and the rooftop bar at the Jumeirah

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  • November 4, 2017

    I’ve yet to venture to the UAE and Dubai, but it’s definitely on the list! I just love the look of all the bright lights and BIG buildings, a complete contrast to some of the other countries I’ve visited x

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  • Anu

    November 4, 2017

    I never thought of Dubai as a walking destination. Your post though makes me feel you can walk around the city and its giant malls. I was in Sharjah earlier this year, but missed visiting the Dubai splendor – just met few of my friends living there.

    Stunning images, especially the night photos.

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  • November 4, 2017

    Really loved reading your post. Dubai has so much to offer to tourists. whether you are a foodie, Travel junkie or a shopper.

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  • November 4, 2017

    I never thought much about visiting Dubai but I do love that there are big food truck areas – I’m a sucker for food trucks!

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  • November 4, 2017

    How cool is that! Dubai is on my list. Thanks for sharing your nice photos and your great experience!

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  • November 3, 2017

    It took me a second to figure out why you were saying that all the outdoor venues come alive during the winter, haha – duh, it gets super hot in the summer! Dubai looks like such an awesome city, and looks like there are some fun hangouts! Will have to keep this list on hand for when I go!

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  • November 3, 2017

    Dubai is seriously high on my list of places to go! I am going to add the City Walk to my list of things that would be good to do with the children! We love food trucks and ice cream! 🙂

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  • November 3, 2017

    Dubai has never been a place I’ve been dying to visit but it looks amazing! I love the Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard 🙂

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  • Jim

    November 3, 2017

    The architecture of Dubai alone is a wonder of this world. Always bending the rules and applying it to get ahead. They can literally build anything you think of, and they probably will. Thanks for these great pictures and recommendations 🙂

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  • November 3, 2017

    I love Dubai. It is such a vibrant city. I was lucky enough to have a friend there so I saw a different side to the city. I also loved Marina Walk and I agree it is a cool spot!

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  • November 3, 2017

    The walk along by the Jumeirah Beach Residences looks amazing, imagine living with those views all the time?! But I think the City Walk would be most interesting, loving the colourful street you’ve shown, and of course all the little shops and cafes and restaurants.

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  • Yukti

    November 3, 2017

    These all places in Dubai are my favorite. I almost love JBR walks with nice beach shops plus restaurants and cosmopolitan crowd.

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  • November 3, 2017

    We are planning to go dubai next year and i will make sure i add these locations in our itinerary. Pics looking amazing. Thanks for sharing.

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  • Jen

    November 3, 2017

    Great blog! I usually avoid megacities but Dubai would be a nice exception. Thanks for the helpful tips!

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  • November 3, 2017

    This is a really informative and interesting guide to Dubai, a city I have not yet visited but hope to at some point. The photos are great too.

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  • November 3, 2017

    Makes my task easy when I’m in Dubai. Thanks for the great post!

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  • November 3, 2017

    I was in Dubai a while ago, and actually saw some thing on the list. But I wish I had the list at this time though, because I also missed some of them! :/ Interesting list, good work!

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  • November 3, 2017

    This is indeed a good collection of places. Dubai seems so huge. Every time I read a new post about it, I see something new.
    Thanks for sharing your thoughts on what to visit 🙂

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  • November 3, 2017

    I’ve never been too interested in Dubai, but your post makes it look less ‘artificial’ and uber-posh. It actually looks quite alluring – and your pix are of course wonderful!

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  • November 3, 2017

    That’s fascinating. I’d never thought of Dubai in architectural terms, but you’re absolutely right; there’s plenty of stunning design to see. I really loved the road with the starry canopy overhead. Thanks for opening my eyes to the possibilities here, particularly as there are direct flights just down the road from me.

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  • November 2, 2017

    Love the night pictures – I never really though of Dubai as an “evening place”. Gorgeous!

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  • November 2, 2017

    Was planning to go to Dubai next year, will definitely add these to my places to visit!

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