10 of the best views in Dubai

As one of the world’s ultimate playgrounds for architects, Dubai has become a very good looking city very quickly. With so many incredible buildings, landscaped marinas and, of course, the vast backdrop of the desert, there are more than a few great views in Dubai. Check out some of our favourite Dubai views ideal for sipping a cocktail, grabbing some photos or just soaking in the scenery.

Bateuax Dubai, Dubai Creek

Bateuax Dubai is a unique Dubai dining cruise where you can not only enjoy a great meal but also take in some unique views of both old and new Dubai. Travel past and take in the old gold souks, the abras ferrying passengers across Dubai creek and, of course, plenty of Dubai’s glittering new buildings that line the creek’s shores.

The cruise is perfect for romantic evenings or celebrations with menus catering for all tastes. Bateaux Dubai offers some brand new perspectives and some of the best views in Dubai.

Helicopter tour

If you’re staying in Dubai, you may as well get into the mindset of the super-rich and famous with a helicopter flight above the city. As well as the thrill of getting up into the air, you can take in some amazing views of Dubai Marina, the Burj al Arab and Downtown Dubai.

If this sounds exciting, then book a deluxe Dubai helicopter tour, including fly-bys of Dubai Creek, the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Marina, as well as some welcome refreshments when you climb onboard!

XLine Dubai

For adrenaline junkies only! This huge zip line flies riders from a 170m platform on one of the Amwaj Towers across Dubai Marina and onto the landing point on top of Dubai Marina Mall. As well as an exhilarating ride, you’ll get incredible views across the marina and of the Palm Jumeirah. Remember you can ride alone or with a friend!

Dubai Frame

Dubai Frame is the world’s largest picture frame, and the subject matter is pretty incredible! The giant gold structure frames Dubai’s skyline and makes for one of the best places in Dubai to take amazing photos. You can also climb to the top of Dubai Frame for yet another outstanding view across the city.

Burj Khalifa

You won’t beat the view from the 125th floor of the world’s tallest building. Towering over Downtown Dubai is the Burj Khalifa, a building which rises almost a kilometre into the sky. The Burj Khalifa is so tall you’ll be able to see Iran across the Persian Gulf on a clear day!

Book your Burj Khalifa tickets in advance to avoid long queues when you visit.

Hot air balloon

For us, this one of the best ways to see not only Dubai’s incredible skyline but also the vast expanse of desert that surrounds the city. Take a sunrise Dubai hot air balloon tour over the desert, watching gazelles and falcons below.

Ain Dubai big wheel

Dubai’s newest mega-attraction is the colossal Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest ferris wheel, overlooking the Jumeirah Beach Residence. Hop in one of the luxury air conditioned cars and enjoy one full 48 minute revolution with excellent views of Dubai Marina and even Downtown Dubai on a clear day.

Level 43 Sky Lounge

Climb above the busy Sheik Zayed Road (and on certain days, above the clouds) for a different view of Dubai. Level 43 Sky Lounge is an open-air terrace with superb 360-degree views of Downtown Dubai complete with swimming pool, sushi bar and cocktail lounge. Visit at sunset for the ultimate views.

Dubai Ferry

A great cheap way to get an excellent view of Dubai is from the water. You can hop on a small Abra, a type of wooden boat that takes travellers across Dubai Creek, or you could travel from Dubai Creek to Dubai Marina on Dubai Ferry. This luxury ferry departs from Bur Dubai, hugging the coastline and passing Downtown Dubai, the Burj Al Arab and the Palm Jumeirah, before arriving in Dubai Marina. For a few dirhams you’ll get some great unique sea views as well as a lift back to the hotel!

Burj Al Arab

Dubai’s world-famous 7-star hotel has the best sea views you can get in Dubai. Thanks to the hotel being located on its own private island, visitors can look out over the Persian Gulf without any restrictions. The view from Skyview Bar and Restaurant is the probably the best view in the entire hotel. Book a table if you aren’t a resident.