Located at the base of the iconic Burj Khalifa is the world's largest choreographed fountain display, where powerful jet streams soar as high as 150m in the air and sway in time to musical numbers. Stop by in the evening when displays begin at sundown and take place every 30 minutes, until the final song plays at 11pm. Diners can also sit back and enjoy the show at an array of restaurants lined up at The Dubai Mall or Souk Al Bahar, both commanding prime positions near the fountain arena.

Palm Jumeirah is one of the largest manmade islands in the world and a triumph of human ingenuity. Locals and tourists alike flock to The Palm's vast array of high-end hotels –Waldorf Astoria, Fairmont, One&Only, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray and, perhaps most notably, Atlantis, The Palm. Getting here is simple, thanks to the monorail running down the 'trunk', which connects to the mainland's tram system. You can also stop by for a quick pick-me-up at the food trucks lined up along the Palm Boardwalk, or make a meal of it at The Pointe that presents idyllic sunset views by the seaside.

Dubai may be known for all things glam, but the city also has a rich culture to explore. Modern developments have added a contemporary touch to old establishments, of which Dubai Creek is a fine example. Located in the heart of the city, this saltwater estuary is the original site where the Bani Yas tribe established their first settlement. The waters at the Creek were vital for what used to be Dubai's main forms of economy: pearl diving and fishing. Today, the area is awash with the history of the emirate. Visit the labyrinthine alleyways of the gold, spice and textile souks, to experience Dubai like a local. While at the Creek, a traditional abra ride is a must. At an unbelievable AED1 per ticket, it's easily the best value tourist attraction in the city.

The Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. Best seen on foot, this area offers nostalgic views of a bygone era with traditional windtowers and a maze of winding alleyways, positioned along the historic waterways of Dubai Creek. Visit Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) to appreciate local culture with Arabic classes, heritage tours and guided mosque visits. After exploring, take an atmospheric abra boat ride to the souks on the other side of the creek. 

Less than 20 minutes drive from the modern streets of Downtown Dubai, lies the mystique-filled Arabian desert. Go on a Dubai-style desert safari, complete with thrilling activities such as quad biking and sandboarding. Those looking for luxury can try the Heritage Dinner Safari by leading tour company Platinum Heritage. From the unforgettable offroad drive in vintage 4x4s to cultural fun with henna painting and camel rides, and a feast of local cuisine under the stars, it's an only-in-Dubai treat.

Alternatively simply drive out for a desert adventure by yourself at the city's best camping spots. Want to stay a little longer? Treat yourself to an unforgettable night amid the dunes at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa or Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa.

Dubai Frame is one of the newest additions to the city’s skyline and represents a remarkable engineering feat. Located within Dubai's famous Zabeel Park, this attraction lets you experience the transition between Old and New Dubai thanks to sweeping panoramic views of the city from 150m high. One of its striking features is the state-of-the-art clear glass bridge walkway, which connects parallel vertical towers so that, from the outside, the structure perfectly resembles a giant picture frame.

The aptly-named Kite Beach is the perfect place to test out your watersports skills, although there's plenty to do out of the water at this popular spot too. Grab a smoothie from one of the many open-air cafes and restaurants, watch bikers and skaters fly by at the skate park, or enjoy a game of volleyball with friends on the sand. With plenty of beach activities, plus an incredible view of Burj Al Arab in the distance, you can easily spend a whole day here.

Dubai Water Canal is a 3.2-kilometre-long waterway extending from the Creek in Old Dubai through Business Bay before finding its way to the Arabian Gulf. With 80,000sqm of public space and facilities and a 12km cycling path, the Canal has become a popular visitor attraction. There are also five pedestrian bridges that snake their way across the iconic waterway, so it's the perfect spot to stroll and take in classic views of the city at its best. Nearby is the Al Habtoor City development, home to the thrilling La Perle by Dragone show, five-star hotels, and an array of trendy restaurants.

If you'd like to shop, dine, watch a movie and go to the beach all in one place, consider a trip to The Beach, opposite Jumeirah Beach Residences (JBR). With guest DJs playing on most weekends, a cinema, and plenty of trendy boutiques, The Beach is always buzzing with activity. Take your pick from the range of dining options, try the exhilarating range of watersports on offer, or just enjoy some relaxation time in a cabana with your favourite book. The kids can burn off some energy at Splash Pad, a waterpark with fully trained staff on hand so you can relax and indulge in some 'me' time.  The Beach is also connected to the trendy new Bluewaters Island district by a pedestrian bridge.

Stretching over 13,000sqm, City Walk offers European-style pedestrian streets alongside a host of shopping and entertainment options perfect for a pleasant day out. Take a walk along tree-lined avenues with shops and restaurants and spot artwork etched by some of the world's finest urban artists. Afterwards, treat your family to an afternoon of fun and head over to Green Planet to spot real wildlife in an indoor tropical rainforest setting. You can also catch a concert, live sports or a comedy show at the nearby Coca-Cola Arena, the Middle East's largest indoor arena.

Located in the Downtown district, the Dubai Opera offers an enticing performing arts schedule from the likes of London’s West End and Manhattan’s Broadway. With views of The Dubai Fountain and located next to the Burj Khalifa, the eye-catching exteriors are inspired by Arabian dhow ships while the stage area is designed to easily convert into three different event platforms: theatre, hall or concert hall. Want to know what's playing at Dubai Opera while you're holidaying in the city? Visit Dubai Calendar.

A  130km drive south-east of Downtown Dubai is Hatta, a not-to-be-missed scenic getaway. In this mountain town you can try kayaking along the serene Hatta Lake, or traversing rocky mountains on foot with specially-crafted hiking experiences. Recent additions to the area include a chic lodge-style hotel and trailer parks for glamping enthusiasts. Indulge in a host of adventure activities such as zorbing, free-falls, mountain biking and more, available via Hatta Wadi Hub. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, as the Hub is also home to Asia’s first ever water jump park, Hatta Drop-In.

Unlimited fun, excitement, speed, and 5D entertainment – you can expect it all at IMG Worlds of Adventure. This enormous theme park is the same size as 28 football pitches put together. With the most up-to-date and exciting rides, IMG Worlds of Adventure brings your favourite characters to life. Give your little ones the best time with rides featuring Ben 10, Gumball, the Powerpuff Girls, and LazyTown, while older kids can delve into the world of Spider-Man, Hulk, Iron Man, Thor and The Avengers.

Mega amusement park complex Dubai Parks and Resorts adds to Dubai's reputation as an entertainment paradise. Children are bound to get excited in the labyrinth of magnificent theme parks, which includes MOTIONGATE, Bollywood Parks, and LEGOLAND Dubai and LEGOLAND Water Park. Adults can relax at the Riverland Boulevard, home to restaurants and a range of open-air entertainment. Don't want to leave? Check-in to the luxury Polynesian-style hotel, The Lapita, located within the theme park destination.

Ain Dubai (which means Dubai Eye in Arabic) is the latest landmark to join Dubai’s long list of world record-breaking attractions, set to open to the public on 21 October. The giant observation wheel stands at 250m making it the highest and largest of its kind in the world. Situated across the water from Jumeirah Beach Residences, the giant wheel offers 360-degree views of the urban skyline during the 38-minute journey. Make sure to allocate time to explore Bluewaters Island, where it is situated too.