Admire architecture on a walking tour of Dubai

Inspired by traditional Islamic themes, Wong aimed to create a perception of constant change with the twin towers’ unique composition and placement. They consist of an office tower and a hotel block, both connected by a central podium – The Boulevard, a leading retail and dining destination in the city. Make a note to return for a culinary experience at the likes of La Cantine du Faubourg or Ninive.

Head straight across the roundabout on the main road towards Dubai International Financial Centre’s (DIFC) imposing The Gate building. Walk underneath and turn around to capture the perfect photograph of Jumeirah Emirates Towers framed inside The Gate’s central void. Look closer to admire architecture firm Gensler’s genius – a creative reflection of the financial hub’s own ‘open-gate’ policy, The Gate features the use of solid stone and stainless steel along the main arch for longevity while an open steel lattice at the top of the arch symbolises transparency.

Next, weave your way past the casual cafes and cross over to the entrance of Gate Village (Building 3). Here, Wall Street meets industrial grandeur, with high-flying financiers rubbing shoulders with art enthusiasts and foodies – all wrapped up in a stunning contemporary architectural setting. Book in for a swanky lunch at Zuma, Roberto’s or LPM Restaurant or pop into art galleries such as Ayyam and Cuadro to browse some of the region’s finest art. During Dubai’s March art season, this quarter comes even more alive with eclectic events drawing in the city’s elite.

For the best views of this futuristic district, head to Luna at Four Seasons Hotel Dubai DIFC. This terrific rooftop lounge presents sweeping vistas of Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai.

It’s now time to see where the city’s cultural elite congregate – Dubai Opera. Exit onto Al Sa’ada Street and head towards the Emirates Towers Metro Station, taking a moment to appreciate the modernist roof design of Dubai Metro’s driverless rail network. Hop off at the Burj Khalifa/The Dubai Mall Metro Station and head towards Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard where you can stroll along wide Parisian-style sidewalks (albeit lined with palm trees) to reach the Dubai Opera.

Designed by Janus Rostock, the iconic dhow-shaped building completes the urban nucleus of Downtown. On the foreshore of The Dubai Fountain with views of the Burj Khalifa, the 2,000-seat venue hosts a range of concerts, theatre shows, comedy acts and family entertainment all through the year.

There are many great places to sit back and gaze at the 828m-high tower including a throng of restaurants on the second floor of Souk Al Bahar (time it to see the iconic dancing Dubai Fountain). Those who want a view of modern Dubai from the world’s tallest building should take a trip to the observation deck, At The Top.

Head back to the Burj Khalifa/The Dubai Mall Metro Station and alight at Business Bay to reach the city’s newest attraction, the Dubai Water Canal. This ambitious project has extended waterways of the Creek in Old Dubai to Business Bay and into the Arabian Gulf, effectively turning large parts of the city into an island. Follow the signs to the waterfall from the station where you can start a 6km loop along the canal. Stop for photos along the five pedestrian bridges, each offering fantastic vantage points of the city skyline and boats sailing below.

Make your way back to the waterfall by evening to witness spectacular neon light effects or stop in at the nearby V Lounge at Al Habtoor City for a refreshing beverage as you overlook the canal lit up at night. Or, if you fancy, hop on a ferry from the Canal station and end your evening with a relaxing ride along the waterway.