Easily accessible from Australia, home to world-class attractions, and a thriving metropolis that offers both exquisite and cheap gastronomic delights, Dubai should be on your bucket list this 2018.

Dubai is a melting pot of cultures situated right on the Persian gulf. The city is lined with a 40 kilometer beach and the journey from one place to the next is a straight up and down. Taxis are cheap and there are now plenty of accommodations for every budget.

While Dubai is a muslim Emirate, it’s more relaxed and more open compared to other countries in the UAE, laws are strictly implemented and tourists should still be mindful of the ways of Dubai people and their culture. For example, people are expected to have their shoulders covered and women should wear trousers or skirts to the knee whenever out and about. Dubai is also a great place to party and drink, however take note that there are licensed venues for alcohol drinking and they are mostly housed in hotels.

Other than these, the Arabian city has plenty of things to offer and places to explore.

1. The Burj Buildings

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest structure on the planet and of the gems of the city. It adorns the Dubai skyline and it’s impossible to miss from the second you land. There is an observation deck on the 134th floor in Dubai that is open day and night. The views of the city from the Burj Khalifa is simply spectacular.

Then there’s the Burj Al Arab that is equally beautiful. It is the only seven-star hotel in the world and a true icon of Dubai for many years now. From the lobby’s ginormous golden pillars to the aquariums that flank the escalator to the underwater seafood restaurant or the exotic glass elevator, the Burj Al Arab is all eye candy. When you stop by, definitely try for high tea or cocktails in the Skyview Bar, but book at least a week in advance.

2. The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is known for it infamous shopping and it’s a must because you’ll never really appreciate the level of amazement if you don’t. The shopping mall is so huge, there’s something for everyone in it. What’s amazing about the Dubai Mall is that eating and shopping are just the tip of the iceberg. Here you can experience various activities:

• 22-screen cinema
• Indoor theme park (Sega World)
• Kidzania for kids
• Giant aquarium with and underwater zoo
• full -sized ice-skating rink

It’s advisable to go here early in the morning but don’t leave early. At 6 in the evening, the Dubai Fountain set to music. Don’t miss the shows!

3. The Jumeirah Beach Walk

Called by locals as JBR, it is the largest single-phase residential construction on Earth. It’s made of 36 towers dotted along the coast of Dubai Marina. It offers a wide variety of shops, cafes, and restaurants on a single-lane avenue. JBR is the perfect places to hangout while watching people and car pass by. If you’re lucky, you will see jaw-dropping scenes like gold-plated sports cars.

4. Desert Safari

Don’t leave Dubai without visiting the desert. Book a desert safari which can include a camel ride, a four-wheel driving, and a traditional Arabic BBQ in the desert while being entertained by belly dancers.

5. Souks

Souks are everywhere in Dubai and it would be a shame if you’re not going to visit atleast one souk. The Old Souk is known for its textiles while the Gold Souk is where you’ll find the best deals for gold. Souks is where you meet a lot of locals, Middle Eastern treasures, and true Arabic culture.

Which Dubai tourist spot are you most likely to see?