ATTRACTIONS IN DUBAI
Expo 2020 Dubai
The magnitude of Expo 2020 Dubai, which began welcoming the public on October 1, is a little too big to fully be encapsulated here, but it’s fair to say it is Dubai’s most anticipated opening of the year. Three districts, 192 country pavilions, more than 200 restaurants, the architectural marvel that is Al Wasl Done, a stunning fire-spitting water feature, friendly roaming robots, hidden gems around every corner and numerous daily live shows are merely some of the reasons the Expo an absolute must-visit. No two days are the same; just be sure to wear your most comfy shoes and you’re set for a surreal day out. Passes cost from Dh95. www.expo2020dubai.com
Ain Dubai
Also one of the most anticipated launches of the year is Ain Dubai, which started its gradual rotation on October 21. At 250 metres, it’s the world’s tallest observation wheel, nearly twice the height of the London Eye, and provides sprawling views of the Dubai skyline during a 38-minute rotation. On a clear day, guests will get to see everything from Bluewaters Island, Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah to Burj Al Arab and even Burj Khalifa. The family-friendly attraction also has a number of offers – from dinner in the sky to luxurious engagement or birthday packages. Prices start at Dh130 for adults and Dh100 for children. www.aindubai.com
Deep Dive Dubai
The incredible Deep Dive Dubai opened its doors in Nad Al Sheba in July. It is home to the deepest pool in the world, with a depth of 60 metres, and can hold 14 million litres of water, the equivalent of six Olympic-size swimming pools. One of its biggest attractions is a sunken city, where divers can explore an underwater world complete with an abandoned streetscape, apartment, garage and arcade. The magnificent Guinness World Records-verified venue is inspired by the UAE’s pearl-diving history and culture. Prices start at Dh400. www.deepdivedubai.com
Madame Tussauds
Another much-anticipated attraction on Bluewaters Island, Madame Tussauds opened its first Middle East branch in October. Inside the venue, known for its lifelike wax figures of prominent personalities, visitors can explore seven zones: leaders; fashion; film; media; Bollywood; sport and music. Get up close to wax figures of international celebrities such as Lady Gaga, Victoria Beckham and Kylie Jenner, or pose next to any of the local personalities, including Maya Diab, Nancy Ajram and Balqees. Prices start at Dh135 for adults, Dh110 for children.
The View at The Palm
Nakheel launched The View at The Palm, a 360-degree
observation deck offering stunning perspectives of Palm Jumeirah, the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline from its 52nd-floor vantage point, in April. The entry of the attraction houses The View Exhibition, a tribute to Palm Jumeirah, with a timeline and details of how the island was conceptualised and developed. Visitors can also expect an immersive theatre, which takes them through the history of the island. The observation deck on Level 52 offers 360-degree views of the island. Prices start at Dh100 for adults and Dh69 for children. www.theviewpalm.ae
Aura SkyPool
The highest 360-degree infinity pool in the world opened in November. Located on the 50th floor of The View at The Palm, Aura SkyPool offers some of the most stunning views of Dubai Marina, JBR and Bluewaters Island on one side, and Burj Al Arab, Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa on the other. There are different packages available, depending on your zone and the time you’re visiting, and prices start at Dh170 for a standard lounger.