Visiting Dubai
Everything you need to enjoy Dubai — a live map of the top attractions, the famous Dubai Fountain show times, live weather, the local time and currency, and quick travel tips. Perfect whether you are planning a trip or just dreaming about one.
Map of Dubai — top attractions
Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, the beaches and much more — explore the city on the interactive map below.
The Dubai Fountain — show times
The Dubai Fountain, set on the lake at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, is one of the world’s largest choreographed fountains. Water shows usually run in the evening every 30 minutes (typically from around 6 pm until late), with extra afternoon shows on some days. Times can change for events and Ramadan, so check on the day — but any evening by Dubai Mall is a safe bet for the show.
What’s on in Dubai
Dubai runs a packed year-round calendar: the Dubai Shopping Festival in winter, New Year fireworks at the Burj Khalifa, concerts, sports and food festivals. Peak season is November to March, when the weather is warm and pleasant; summer (June–August) is very hot, so most fun moves indoors — malls, aquariums, ski slopes and, of course, mirror mazes.
Traveller’s helper
The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED). Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
- Many nationalities get a visa on arrival
- English is widely spoken
- Metro & taxis are cheap and easy
- Dress modestly in malls & mosques
Visiting Dubai — FAQ
What are the top attractions in Dubai?
Dubai’s must-sees include the Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest building) and the Dubai Fountain, the Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina and JBR beach, the historic Al Fahidi district and Dubai Creek, and the Museum of the Future. You can preview many of them live on our Dubai live cameras.
What time is the Dubai Fountain show?
The Dubai Fountain performs every 30 minutes in the evening, roughly from 18:00 to 23:00, plus a couple of afternoon shows around 13:00–13:30. Each show lasts a few minutes and is free to watch from around the Burj Khalifa lake.
How many days do you need in Dubai?
Three to four days is enough for the highlights — Downtown and Burj Khalifa, a beach day at JBR or the Palm, a desert safari, and an indoor attraction or two. A week lets you add day trips and a slower pace.
What is the best time of year to visit Dubai?
November to March is the best time — warm, sunny days ideal for the beach and outdoor sights. Summer (June–September) is very hot (40°C+), so plan indoor attractions and enjoy the evenings outside.
What can you do in Dubai when it’s too hot or raining?
Plenty indoors — the Dubai Mall and aquarium, the Museum of the Future, indoor ski, and attractions like the SKY MAZE mirror maze and interactive science exhibits — perfect for the midday heat.
Is Dubai good for families?
Very. Alongside beaches and parks, Dubai has huge family attractions and edutainment venues — including interactive science parks and the mirror maze — so kids and adults both have plenty to do.
While you plan, watch the city live on our Dubai live cameras, and don’t miss SKY MAZE and our science attractions when you arrive.
One more thing to do in Dubai
Step inside SKY MAZE — the largest and most spectacular mirror maze in history. Add it to your Dubai list.