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Dubai Travel Guide

It’s hard to believe when confronting the sheer scale of Dubai, but most of the city was built in just the last 50 years. It makes the world’s biggest shopping mall, tallest skyscraper, and a host of ultra-luxurious hotels all the more bewildering. Still, amid all the glamor and superlatives, there are vestiges of a pre-skyscraper Dubai, in its winding souks and the vast empty desert that surrounds the city. Here’s how to navigate both sides of this always-growing metropolis.

Plan Your Dubai Trip

The Small Concept Hangouts Challenging Dubai’s Maximalist Reputation
The city continues to live up to its reputation for excess, but now there are more places than ever to stop and take a breath. 
How to Make the Most of Your Layover in Dubai
You’d be amazed at how much you could squeeze in on a 24-hour layover. From culture to beaches (even spas!), here’s everything you could reasonably fit into one day
35 Best Hotels in Dubai
We’ve eliminated the guesswork and rounded up 36 of our favorite Dubai hotels, for all budgets, ages, and travel preferences.
Explore the Inspiring Parts of Dubai with Photographer Rhiannon Taylor
Produced by Condé Nast Traveler with Conrad Hotels & Resorts | Rhiannon Taylor continues her journey at Conrad Dubai where she connects with photographer Katarina Premfors and explores famed Dubai markets followed by a tour of Fossil Rock and a round of Dune Bashing in the desert.
Andrew Zimmern's Back-Alley Tour of Dubai Dining
Some of the city's most surprising and delicious flavors hail from Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and more.

More from Dubai

Gold List
Inside Condé Nast Traveler's Gold List Party in Dubai
Anna Wintour made her first trip to the metropolis for the occasion.
Destinations
The Best Time to Visit Dubai—and How Long to Stay
Even during high summer in the Emirati desert, Dubai's indoor attractions will be sure to keep you cool.
Air Travel
Emirates Is Training Its Staff to Better Serve Autistic Passengers
Emirates will soon become the world’s first commercial Autism Certified Airline by training staff to support passengers with autism.
Air Travel
Where to Eat in Dubai International Airport
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Destinations
Chefs in Dubai Are Putting Regional Flavors Back on the Menu
In Dubai, ambitious chefs are fusing their personal stories with regional influences, forging a new vision for fine dining in their city.
News & Advice
15 Essential Things to Know Before Visiting Dubai
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A Local's Guide to Dubai's Wellness Scene
Dubai-based fashion designer Ayesha Depala shares her personal healing journey and the local places she relies on to find peace.
Style & Culture
What to Wear in Dubai, According to Stylist Oumayma Elboumeshouli
What you need in your case for a city where a power suit and bikini go hand-in-hand.
Food & Drink
The 17 Best Restaurants in Dubai
Dubai's best restaurants are as diverse as the city itself, from elevated Italian fare to omakase concepts.
Food & Drink
The 11 Best Middle Eastern Restaurants in Dubai
These spots promise a soul-warming meal.
Inspiration
The 12 Best Bars in Dubai, from Moody Speakeasies to Buzzy DJ Spots
The spots serving some seriously impressive drinks (and vibes)
Air Travel
This Dubai Hotel Launched a Private Party Jet—Here's What It's Like On Board
The jet comes with a king-sized bed, onboard shower, a cinema room, and plenty of party lighting.
Air Travel
I Tried Emirates' Glamorous Lounge in Dubai—Here's Why It's Worth Paying For
The business class lounge has plenty of amenities to make a visit worthwhile.
Air Travel
Emirates Is Giving Away Free Hotel Stays in Dubai This Summer
Plus, loads of discounts on sightseeing, dining, and spa treatments.
Air Travel
This Airline Is Phasing Out Paper Boarding Passes
Charge up your phones: It now takes a mobile boarding pass for most passengers to get onto Emirates' flights in Dubai.