When it comes to exploring Dubai, a city known for its impressive skyline, iconic landmarks, and cultural heritage, there are numerous options available to make the most of your visit. From exploring the historic districts by foot to cruising through the city on a hop-on-hop-off bus, each mode of transportation offers a unique perspective and allows you to experience the vibrant atmosphere of this cosmopolitan destination. Discover the best ways to explore Dubai with Dubai Sightseeing tours in this blog, ensuring you make the most of your time in this captivating city.
1. By Foot: Old Dubai and the Abra Experience

For a more immersive experience, exploring Old Dubai by foot is an excellent option. Begin your journey in the historic district of Al Fahidi, also known as Bastakiya, which is renowned for its traditional Arabian architecture and narrow winding streets. Immerse yourself in the rich history of the area as you explore the traditional courtyard houses, art galleries, and boutique shops. Don’t miss the Dubai Museum, housed in the 18th-century Al Fahidi Fort, which provides fascinating insights into the city’s past.
To continue your Dubai Sightseeing exploration of Old Dubai, head towards the bustling waterfront area known as the Dubai Creek. Here, you can take a traditional wooden boat called an Abra across the creek, offering a picturesque view of the city’s skyline and a glimpse into the authentic trading heritage of Dubai. The Abra ride is not only a convenient mode of transportation but also a cultural experience that shouldn’t be missed.
10 am – 11 pm, Free Entry
2. Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

For a convenient and comprehensive city tour, consider hopping on a double decker hop-on-hop-off bus. These double decker buses provide a flexible and hassle-free way to explore Dubai’s major attractions at your own pace. With a one to three-day pass, you can board the bus at any designated stop and disembark at various points of interest, allowing you to spend as much time as you desire at each location.
Embarking on a hop-on-hop-off bus tour in Dubai is a fantastic way to explore the city’s key landmarks and attractions. These tours cover iconic sites such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Jumeirah Mosque, and Palm Jumeirah. With an informative audio guide providing fascinating facts about Dubai’s history, culture, and architecture, you can sit back, relax, and enjoy the sights while avoiding the hassle of navigating the city on your own. The flexibility of being able to disembark at any stop and explore at your own pace allows you to customize your itinerary and make the most of your time in Dubai. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the hop-on-hop-off bus tour offers convenience, flexibility, and valuable insights into the city’s iconic landmarks.
Along the route, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the awe-inspiring Burj Khalifa, where you can take in panoramic views from its observation deck. Adjacent to the Burj Khalifa is the Dubai Mall, a shopper’s paradise with a wide range of retail outlets and entertainment options. Another notable stop is the magnificent Jumeirah Mosque, where you can explore its stunning architecture and learn about Islamic culture. Lastly, a visit to Palm Jumeirah, the iconic man-made island, is a must to admire its unique design and luxurious beachfront resorts. With the hop-on-hop-off bus tour, you can uncover the highlights of Dubai while enjoying the convenience and flexibility of exploring at your own pace. Moreover, you can get in better views by sitting on the upper deck.
9 am – 5:30 pm, price starting from AED 125
3. Metro: From Downtown to Marina, with a Stop at Mall of the Emirates

Dubai’s modern and efficient metro system offers a convenient way to travel between the city’s major attractions. Starting from near Downtown Dubai, you can hop on the metro and enjoy a scenic ride towards the iconic Dubai Marina. Along the way, you will pass through DIFC, the bustling financial district of Dubai and Burj Khalifa.
Make a stop at the Mall of the Emirates, a premier shopping destination and one of the largest malls in the world. Located along Sheikh Zayed Road, this iconic mall offers an extraordinary retail experience combined with exciting attractions and dining options.
One of the highlights of Mall of the Emirates is the famous Ski Dubai indoor ski resort. Step into a winter wonderland in the heart of the desert as you experience real snow and thrilling winter activities.
As you continue your journey through Mall of the Emirates, take a moment to appreciate the stunning architecture and design of the mall. With its expansive atriums, elegant interiors, and soaring ceilings, the mall creates a visually striking environment that adds to the overall shopping experience.
Before leaving the mall, make sure to explore the other entertainment options available.
Dubai Sightseeing, it’s worth noting that the metro can be crowded during morning and evening rush hours, so plan your journey accordingly. To avoid the crowds, opt for the metro during off-peak hours or choose alternative modes of transportation during busy times.
5 am – 12 am Monday to Thursday, 5 am – 1 am Friday, 5 am – 12 am Saturday, 8 am – 12 am Sunday, price vary
4. Rent a Car: Freedom to Explore at Your Own Pace

For those who prefer the freedom and flexibility to explore Dubai at their own pace, renting a car is a popular choice. Dubai has a well-developed road infrastructure, making it easy to navigate through the city and reach various attractions.
Renting a car in Dubai allows you to create your own itinerary and discover both the popular tourist spots and hidden gems of Dubai. However, it’s important to consider the traffic situation, especially during rush hours in the morning and early evening. To avoid congestion and delays, plan your outings outside of peak traffic times. Additionally, be aware of parking regulations and fees, which vary depending on the location.
If you prefer a more relaxing experience, another option is to rent a car with a driver. This way, you can sit back and enjoy the sights without the stress of driving or navigating unfamiliar roads. Hiring a professional driver provides convenience and local knowledge, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable sightseeing experience.
timings and prices vary
5. Rent a Limousine: Celebrate in Style

If you’re looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply indulge in luxury, renting a limousine is the epitome of elegance and style. Dubai is known for its opulent lifestyle, and traveling in a chauffeur-driven limousine adds a touch of glamour to your sightseeing experience.
Whether it’s a romantic dinner date, a birthday celebration, or a tour of the city’s iconic landmarks, a limousine ride offers a memorable and unique way to explore Dubai. Sit back and relax in the plush interiors of the limousine while enjoying the panoramic views of the city. Treat yourself to a VIP experience and create unforgettable memories.
timings and prices vary
6. Street Taxi or Uber/Careem

For First Time Visitors to Dubai, there are several convenient and efficient transportation options available to travelers. Whether you prefer the convenience of ride-hailing services like Careem and Uber or Dubai Street taxis, you’ll find a reliable way to navigate the city and reach your desired destinations.
Using these transportation options to explore Dubai comes with its own advantages. You can sit back and relax, leaving the hassle of driving and navigating to the professionals. Additionally, all services offer transparent pricing, ensuring you know the estimated fare before starting your trip. It’s also worth noting that Dubai Street taxis accept cash and credit card payments, while Careem and Uber offer cashless transactions for added convenience. As per our experience, the rates on Careem tend to be a bit lower in comparison to Uber.
Whether you choose Careem, Uber, or Dubai Taxi, you’ll find a reliable and comfortable way to explore Dubai’s bustling streets. From the iconic Burj Khalifa to the vibrant Dubai Marina and beyond, these transportation services ensure that you can easily reach your desired destinations, allowing you to make the most of your time in this top city.
24/7, prices vary depending on destination
Dubai Sightseeing: FAQs
Absolutely! Dubai is known for its safety, making it an ideal destination for solo travelers. The city’s efficient public transport and welcoming atmosphere ensure a secure experience.
The best time to explore Dubai is during the cooler months, from November to March. This ensures pleasant weather, enhancing your overall sightseeing experience.
Yes, Dubai offers a range of budget-friendly sightseeing options, from public transport exploration to reasonably priced guided tours. You can tailor your experience to fit your budget.
While it’s advisable to book tickets in advance, it’s possible to purchase them on-site. However, pre-booking ensures a smoother experience and often includes additional perks.
Absolutely! Dubai is home to diverse culinary experiences, with numerous restaurants offering delicious vegetarian options. You’ll find a variety of choices to suit your palate.
Dubai’s public transport, including the metro and buses, is easy to navigate. Purchase a Nol card for seamless travel, and you’ll be exploring the city efficiently in no time.
In conclusion, Dubai offers a range of options to explore its vibrant cityscape and cultural heritage. Whether you choose to wander through the historic streets of Old Dubai, hop on a convenient hop-on-hop-off bus, travel via the metro to experience the modern side of the city, rent a car for flexibility, or indulge in the luxury of a limousine, each mode of transportation provides a unique perspective and allows you to make the most of your Dubai sightseeing experience. Choose the option that suits your preferences and embark on a memorable journey through this captivating city.
