The UAE (United Arab Emirates) is a country that beautifully blends modernity with tradition, offering a diverse range of attractions and landmarks that cater to every traveller’s interest. From the world’s tallest building to stunning islands, ancient fortresses, and vibrant cultural centres, the UAE promises an unforgettable experience. The best way to explore this captivating country is to rent a car in UAE, giving you the flexibility and freedom to visit the country’s top landmarks at your own pace. In this blog, we’ll take you on a journey to the ten must-visit landmarks in the UAE, providing helpful tips and insights to make your trip truly memorable.
No visit to the UAE would be complete without seeing the Burj Khalifa, an architectural marvel that stands proudly at 828 metres. As the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa is the crown jewel of Dubai’s skyline and a symbol of the city’s ambition and progress. Visitors flock to the observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors, where panoramic views stretch as far as the eye can see. From here, you can admire Dubai's sprawling urban landscape, the vast desert beyond, and the shimmering waters of the Arabian Gulf. At night, the building lights up in a stunning display of colours, creating a mesmerizing sight.
The Burj Khalifa is more than just a tower; it is a place that embodies the essence of Dubai’s growth and success. It hosts luxury restaurants, high-end offices, and even private residences. The journey to the top is an experience, with an elevator ride that takes you up at 10 metres per second. While in the area, don’t miss the Dubai Fountain, located right at the base of the Burj Khalifa, where you can enjoy free water shows every evening.
The Palm Jumeirah is undoubtedly one of the UAE’s most famous landmarks. This artificial island, shaped like a palm tree, is an engineering marvel and a global icon. Situated just off the coast of Dubai, the Palm Jumeirah is an extraordinary artificial island known for its luxury accommodations, water parks, marine animal exhibits, and upscale dining options. The island also boasts exclusive villas and apartments with breathtaking views of the city and the Arabian Gulf.
While visiting Palm Jumeirah, you can enjoy a leisurely drive along the crescent-shaped coastline, marvel at the opulent hotels, or spend time at the Atlantis Hotel's Aquaventure Waterpark, which is one of the largest waterparks in the Middle East. Whether you're there for the beaches, the fine dining, or to admire the view, the Palm Jumeirah is a must-see destination in Dubai.
Another iconic landmark in Dubai is the Burj Al Arab, one of the world’s most luxurious hotels. Known for its distinctive sail-shaped design, this 7-star hotel stands proudly on an artificial island off the coast of Dubai. It is the epitome of luxury, offering top-tier services, private beaches, and a selection of world-class restaurants. While the hotel is not open to the public unless you are a guest, you can still enjoy a stunning view from the nearby Jumeirah Beach.
The Burj Al Arab is often seen as the symbol of Dubai’s opulence and is one of the most photographed landmarks in the world. Its interior is just as magnificent as its exterior, with lavish furnishings, gold accents, and an overall sense of grandeur. If you want to treat yourself to an unforgettable experience, consider booking a meal at one of the hotel’s fine dining restaurants, which offer exquisite cuisine and spectacular views of the Dubai coastline.
Located in Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the largest and most beautiful mosques globally. This architectural wonder is a masterpiece of Islamic design, with its gleaming white marble exterior, grand domes, and intricate interiors. The mosque can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers and features one of the world’s largest chandeliers and hand-woven carpets.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is truly special because it welcomes visitors of all faiths. It offers free guided tours, where you can learn about this iconic site's history, architecture, and significance. It’s a peaceful place of reflection and prayer, and its grandeur is nothing short of awe-inspiring. Whether you’re a visitor seeking spiritual connection or simply an admirer of fine architecture, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-visit.
Dubai Mall is more than just a shopping centre; it’s an experience on its own. One of the largest malls in the world, it houses over 1,200 shops, a large ice rink, and the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. From shopping and dining to exploring, Dubai Mall offers something for everyone. It also features a variety of entertainment options, including a luxury cinema and a virtual reality park.
Apart from the shops, Dubai Mall boasts some incredible attractions. You can marvel at the Dubai Aquarium, home to thousands of marine animals, or enjoy a unique skating experience at the ice rink. When the sun sets, head outside to watch the Dubai Fountain show, where water jets dance in perfect harmony to music, creating a spectacular light and sound display. The Dubai Mall is an essential stop for anyone visiting Dubai.
Dubai Creek is the historical heart of the city, offering a glimpse into Dubai’s past before it became the global metropolis it is today. The creek was once the centre of Dubai’s trading and fishing industries, and it played a key role in the city’s development. While the modern part of Dubai is all about skyscrapers and luxury, Dubai Creek is a peaceful area highlighting the city’s traditional heritage.
Visitors can take an abra (a traditional wooden boat) across the creek to experience the area as it was centuries ago. The surrounding souks (markets) are a must-see, where you can shop for spices, textiles, gold, and souvenirs. The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, located near the creek, is also worth a visit. It features traditional wind-tower houses and the Dubai Museum, which showcases the city’s history and development. Exploring Dubai Creek offers a unique blend of culture and history, allowing visitors to experience a glimpse of the past.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, or Al Bastakiya, is a preserved area in Dubai that offers a glimpse of the city’s past before it became a global hub. This historical district features traditional wind-tower houses, narrow lanes, and a rich cultural heritage. It's a great place to stroll, offering a peaceful atmosphere distinct from the fast-paced city life.
The Al Fahidi Fort, which houses the Dubai Museum, is located in this area and is one of the oldest buildings in Dubai. The museum offers fascinating insights into the city’s early days, with exhibits showcasing ancient tools, artefacts, and models of traditional Emirati life. Visiting the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is a wonderful way to appreciate Dubai’s cultural roots.
A desert safari is one of the most exciting activities you can experience in the UAE. The vast desert landscapes offer a peaceful retreat from the city and provide an exhilarating adventure. Desert safari tours typically include dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, camel rides, and sandboarding. You can also enjoy a traditional Bedouin-stle dinner under the stars, with entertainment like belly dancing and henna painting.
The desert is a captivating place, and watching the sunset over the golden dunes is an unforgettable experience. For those seeking adventure or relaxation, a desert safari is a must-do activity when visiting the UAE.
For thrill-seekers, Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi is a dream come true. Located on Yas Island, Ferrari World is the world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park and is home to some of the most exciting rides and attractions. The park features the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, which reaches speeds of up to 240 km/h. It also offers a range of family-friendly attractions, including interactive shows and exhibitions showcasing Ferrari’s history and iconic cars.
Ferrari World offers a thrilling experience for all ages, making it an ideal destination for families. It’s perfect for motorsport enthusiasts or those seeking an adrenaline rush, with activities that appeal to everyone, from young children to adults.
Renting a car in the UAE is an excellent option to make the most of your visit to these incredible landmarks. Renting a car allows you to travel at your own pace and explore each site without the hassle of relying on public transport or tours. With a rental car you can easily hop from one attraction to another and make your journey through the UAE as smooth and convenient as possible.
At Finalrentals, we offer a range of vehicles for all types of travellers. From compact cars for solo trips to SUVs for family adventures, we have the perfect vehicle to suit your needs. Renting a car in the UAE is simple, and we provide flexible rental options to ensure a hassle-free experience.
Explore Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and beyond easily by renting a car from Finalrentals. Whether visiting the Burj Khalifa, taking a desert safari, or relaxing on the beaches of Palm Jumeirah, a rental car lets you make the most of your time in the UAE. With affordable rates and various vehicles to choose from, your perfect UAE adventure starts here, allowing you to discover top landmarks and hidden gems at your own pace.
