Dubai is a city that has long been synonymous with extravagance and all-round opulence, and over recent years, it has become the travel destination of choice for affluent individuals and wealthy jet-setters who come in search of indulgent experiences and sheer excess.
A playground for the rich and famous, its appeal seemingly knows no bounds for those with no limits on time or money, and from plush accommodation and decadent dining experiences to unique desert experiences, these are the best things to do on a luxury trip if you’re heading to Dubai in 2024.
Stay in iconic luxury accommodation
When it comes to lavish accommodation choices, nowhere does it better than Dubai. Where money is no object, booking a suite at the Burj Al Arab, which is often touted as the world’s only seven-star hotel, is the obvious choice and promises unimaginable opulence. If you think you already know all there is to know about the high-end travel experience, then think again, because here, everything from the rooms and suites to the cuisine and service are taken to the next level.
If you’d prefer a more remote setting, then head to the incredible Al Maha Desert Resort and Spa, which offers exclusive, intimate villas with private pools and the chance to revel in the tranquility of the vast Arabian Desert.
Take in the impressive Dubai skyline from the Burj Khalifa
No trip to Dubai is complete without a visit to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Booking a table at Atmosphere on the 122nd floor is a must, and as the world’s highest restaurant, it promises the most elevated dining experience of your life.
The food, although brilliant, is only part of the experience, and the unparalleled panoramic views down over the city are nothing short of awe-inspiring. The Burj Khalifa’s observation decks provide breath-taking, 360-degree vistas of Dubai’s impressive skyline, the vast Arabian Desert, and the shimmering waters of the Persian Gulf.
Explore the desert by dune buggy
For something a little different, head off to explore the vast and mesmerising desert that surrounds this urban metropolis by dune buggy. In this playground for adventure seekers, whizzing up and down the immense sand dunes at speed is an exhilarating experience you won’t want to miss – and if you go at sunset, then you’ll catch some breath-taking views of the sun as it dips beneath the horizon.
Whether you’re a seasoned off-road enthusiast or a complete amateur seeking thrill and excitement, dune buggy rental in Dubai caters to all skill levels, and there really is no better way to take in the beauty of the expansive desert landscape.
High-end shopping
Dubai is a luxury shopper’s paradise, its malls awash with sophisticated designer boutiques and big name brands, so if you’re in the mood for splashing some cash during your stay then you’ll be in for a treat. The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates are must-visit destinations for high-end shopping and are experiences in themselves, featuring extravagant architecture, shiny marble and gold details and just about every major fashion house in the world.
For a personalised shopping experience, be sure to explore the Gold Souk or the newly opened Dubai Hills Mall – there are so many you’ll be spoilt for choice, so you’ll want to fuel up before you head out shopping in Dubai to keep your stamina up!
Dine in Michelin-starred eateries
Dubai’s culinary scene is as diverse as its skyline, and attracts foodies from across the globe who come to dine at its plethora of Michelin-starred restaurants and fine dining eateries. Currently, there are three venues to choose from holding two Michelin stars and a further eleven holding one, so there’s one for every night of your trip if you simply can’t get enough of the fine gastronomy on offer here.
Tresind Studio, which serves up mouth-watering Indian cuisine with a fine dining twist was upgraded in 2023 thanks to the creative flair of head chef Himanshu Sini, while Niko Romito’s Il Ristorante blends modern and classical Italian inspiration to create decadent dishes that can’t help but stun. Then, of course, there’s Stay by Yannick Alleno – a world-renowned chef with three Michelin-starred restaurants under his belt. Stay, located at One & The Palm, is the latest, and the prestigious holder of two.
For something a little different, indulge in a gastronomic journey at Zuma, renowned for its contemporary Japanese cuisine, or prepare to be wowed by the impressive creativity at Pierchic, which enjoys an idyllic location at the end of a pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf.
