Dubai is one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates and the tourism is one of the most important parts of the Government´s strategy to increase the local economy and to develop the country. The city will host the Expo in 2020 and new projects and attractions are being developed by the last years. Every year, the number of tourists increases, and with plenty of options, which are the visits that you cannot miss if you come to Dubai? Here are the must see attractions and places if you are thinking about visiting the emirate.

Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain

The first thing every tourist wants to see once the aircraft touchdowns is the tallest building in the world, with 828 meters high. It is called Burj Khalifa. "Burj" means "tower" in Arabic, and it receives its name because of the Sheik Khalifa bin Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, current President of the UAE.

The highest point of any Burj Khalifa experience is the view from At The Top. It is located on level 124 and this observatory is destined to be the highlight of any visit to the Middle East. The tower is located in an area called Downtown, where you can enjoy two more attractions. Don´t miss the opportunity to take a walk inside Dubai Mall. This shopping center is the largest in the world. As you can appreciate in Dubai everything is “the most” something. Inside Dubai Mall you can visit the Aquarium, it showcases one of the world’s most diverse collections of marine animals with more than 300 species including sharks and rays.

If you prefer to visit Dubai Mall at the evening you won´t be disappointed if you decide to wait for the Dubai Fountain spectacle. Located at the base of Burj Khalifa, it performs every day different kind of music shows meanwhile the fountains dance to the sound of music.

Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis Hotel

Palm Jumeirah is one of the most requested visits by the tourists; maybe it is because it is an artificial island where you can experience an amazing skyline view of Dubai. Palm Jumeirah had already become the world's largest artificial island and across its branches you will find the most exclusive villas and hotels. One of these hotels is Atlantis, the first hotel to be built on the island. It is famous, among other things, because it includes one of the biggest aquariums that the guests can appreciate even from the inside of some suits. As well, it includes an aquatic park with sharks inside! You can always stop by their entrance to take some nice pictures with the hotel as a special background.

Dubai Marina and JBR

This new area in Dubai is an artificial marina with 7 kilometres walkway plus stunning buildings and views. In Dubai Marina you will find luxurious yack clubs and the famous Cayan Tower, most common named as Twist. Dubai Maria is the neighbourhood with more nightlife in Dubai and where you will meet more expat people. There are plenty of options for dining and party.

Near to it, you will find as well Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) where you can have a sunbath in one of most popular beaches in the city. Also, there are cafes, restaurants, shops and a cinema. If you are brave enough, you should try to jump from a helicopter in Skydive Dubai, located at the end of JBR walk.

Dubai Creek and Souks

This natural seawater inlet is the traditional and old area in Dubai. There, you can take an abra, small water taxi, meanwhile you appreciate the views of the ports and other historic landmarks. Dubai Creek was the base for the Bani Yas tribe and where they practiced their main economic activities such as fishing. Most of these small cruises will leave you at the souks, the name that receives the traditional local markets. There are two main souks: The Gold Souk and The Spices Souk. In the first one, the visitors cannot miss the opportunity to see the biggest ring in the world. You will be surprised for the size of such piece of jewellery.

Madinat Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab

Madinat Jumeirah is a touristic complex also known as the Little Venice. There is a modern souk where you will find some small shops including antique shops; and an artificial lake bordering the area. Madinat Jumeirah is the best place to take pictures of Burj Al Arab, a seven stars hotel. Yes, you read well, seven stars! Although it is not allowed to go inside without prior booking, you can always enjoy the view from outside.

The desert

My last recommendation but at the same time the most important is the desert! You cannot come back home without a desert safari! You can book a route with one of the many touristic agencies you will find across the city. Most of them include dining, camel riding and 4x4 desert experience. It is better to go during the afternoon and feel the immensity of the desert with the sunset!