With the iconic Burj Khalifa at its heart, Downtown Dubai is a bustling tourism, shopping and entertainment hub in the United Arab Emirates. The area was originally known as Umm Al Tarif before being rapidly developed in the 2000s, with just a handful of traditional buildings still visible in the Old Town.
Things to do in Downtown
Dominating Dubai Downtown is the 828-metre-high skyscraper of the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest man-made structure ever built. It’s named after the former president of the United Arab Emirates and boasts an outdoor observation deck that teeters 555 metres above the ground. In front of the Burj Khalifa is the Dubai Fountain, which is famed for its colourful sound and light displays.
Home to around 1,000 retailers, the Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping destinations in the world. Dine at one of the 100+ cafes and restaurants, catch the latest flicks in the 22-screen cinema complex or enjoy a skate on the Olympic-sized Dubai Ice Rink. The Dubai Mall is also home to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, plus the motion simulators and amusement games of VR Park Dubai.
Coincide your visit to Downtown Dubai with a performance at the Dubai Opera, a 2,000-seat performing arts centre inspired by a traditional Arabian dhow. In addition to opera, this impressive venue hosts concerts, ballets and theatrical performances. The Dubai Opera forms part of the Opera District with its art galleries, design studios and cultural museums.
Getting around Downtown
Downtown Dubai is around 15 minutes’ drive from Dubai International Airport, which has flights to destinations across the globe. Subway services connect to the Burj Khalifa/ Dubai Mall Metro Station and buses travel throughout the suburb, although most of the area’s attractions are accessible on foot.