Things that you will only find in Dubai
In recent decades, Dubai has transformed into a global hub of cutting-edge architecture and technology. Its affluent residents appreciate the finer things in life, drawing celebrities such as Robert De Niro, the Kardashians, and countless Instagram influencers.
With a staggering GDP of $108 billion, the city flaunts an array of attractions, including opulent resorts, marine-life sanctuaries, towering skyscrapers, and man-made islands. This juxtaposition of ultramodern architecture against the backdrop of abundant natural beauty is what makes Dubai truly captivating.
Water Cars
Est. Value: $135,000*
Produced by: WaterCar
Based in Southern California, WaterCar, an American company, enjoys significant popularity in Dubai for its luxurious amphibious cars. Founded in 1999 by Dave March, inspired by the 1960s Amphicar, WaterCar made its commercial debut in 2013 with the Panther model, priced reasonably at just over $135,000.
Noteworthy is its appeal across various demographics in Dubai, including Dubai’s Crown Prince, Sheik Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al-Maktoum, who owns six of these amphibious vehicles. These remarkable cars transition seamlessly from land to water in under 15 seconds, boasting impressive speeds exceeding 60mph on water.
Undersea Hotels
Est. Value: $6,295 per night*
Produced by: Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai
Dubai, renowned for its towering skyscrapers and artificial islands, also offers a unique luxury experience with its undersea hotel rooms. These exclusive accommodations, often found within the Ambassador Lagoon, offer awe-inspiring underwater views, with Atlantis, The Palm hosting the most famous ones – “Neptune” and “Poseidon.” These suites feature expansive floor-to-ceiling windows, providing an intimate encounter with over 65,000 marine inhabitants.
But luxury comes at a price. A night in an underwater Dubai hotel starts at a minimum of $314, surpassing the rates of some of the finest hotels in the United States. For the pinnacle of extravagance, a single night’s stay in the most opulent underwater hotels can set you back a staggering $25,000.
Robotic Camel Racers
Est. Value: $500/Robot Jockey*
Produced by: Various Local Shops
Before 2004, camel racing in the UAE was marred by egregious human rights issues, including the exploitation of young children as jockeys. In response, the Emirates took a pioneering step by banning human jockeys in 2004, introducing robot replacements. These aluminum-framed robots possess the ability to transmit vital data like the camel’s heart rate and speed to the observing race team, ensuring their safety from a distance.
Operated by handlers in separate vehicles alongside the track, these robotic jockeys have not only averted numerous injuries and human rights violations but also exude a futuristic charm. Their continuous evolution, which began in 2001, took four years to culminate in the first race, involving adjustments to withstand harsh desert conditions and scorching temperatures.
Helicopter Taxis for Cars
Est. Value: Unknown
Produced by: Unknown
Bumper-to-bumper traffic is a universal source of frustration for drivers worldwide, endlessly gazing at the vehicle ahead. In Dubai, an innovative solution to this age-old problem has taken to the skies – helicopter taxis. These airborne vehicles gracefully traverse Dubai, catering to the transportation needs of the affluent and famous.
Residents of the Burj Khalifa are accustomed to the sight of these heli-cars gracefully gliding across the cityscape. This visionary project, initiated in 2017 by a German startup, introduced the world’s first airborne taxi service. The autonomous air taxis (AATs) boast eighteen rotors and were provided by Volocopter. However, convenience comes at a price, with a taxi ride costing around $144 per person for a group of six.
Hydroflying Boots
Est. Value: $5,000*
Produced by: Flyboard
Dubai offers an abundance of heart-pounding pursuits for adrenaline junkies and water sports enthusiasts. For those seeking thrills beyond high-rise tennis courts and exotic pets, the Persian Gulf beckons with a new exhilarating pastime: hydro-flying boots, also known as flyboarding. This latest sensation has captured the attention of those with a penchant for adventure and a few extra thousand dollars to spare.
Equipped with a lengthy hose channeling water pressure through jet nozzles beneath the boots, flyboarding empowers users to soar gracefully above the water or zoom beneath it at speeds of up to 25 mph, propelling them up to 70 feet into the air. Safety? Perhaps questionable, but the fun factor is undeniable.
Lamborghini Police Cars
Est. Value: $545,000*
Produced by: Lamborghini
Dubai’s extensive array of luxury vehicles has elevated police patrolling to a necessity intertwined with opulence. It’s not uncommon to witness Dubai’s law enforcement cruising the streets in stunning Ferraris, Bugattis, and Lamborghinis, signifying their presence in style. Among these high-speed enforcers, the Lamborghini Aventador stands out.
With an astonishing 0-60 mph acceleration in just 3 seconds and a top speed of approximately 220 mph, evading the law in Dubai is a rarity. An encounter with an Aventador police car would undoubtedly be unforgettable, but it’s a risk not worth taking, given Dubai’s hefty speeding fines, ranging from $273 for minor infractions to over $800 for major offenses.
“The World” Islands
Est. Value: $16 Billion-$20 Billion*
Produced by: Creative Kingdom Dubai
Dubai’s property developers continually push boundaries, surpassing previous achievements with innovative projects. While some nations create airport islands, Dubai goes further, constructing entire new worlds. The Palm Jumeirah was just a warm-up for “The World” Islands, an ambitious ongoing endeavor.
Aerially, these islands mimic a world map. Upon completion, “The World” will span 3.7 by 5.6 miles, comprising seven island groups, totaling nearly 260 islands. Each cluster symbolizes one of the seven continents, with individual islands ranging from 150,000 sq ft to 450,000 sq ft. This colossal project represents Dubai’s relentless pursuit of architectural marvels and redefines the concept of real estate development.
Indoor Skiing in the Mall
Est. Value: $75/day pass*
Produced by: Majid Al Futtaim Group
Operated by The Majid Al Futtaim Group, Ski Dubai welcomed its first visitors in 2005. Nestled within the Mall of the Emirates, this extraordinary indoor ski resort boasts three lifts ferrying enthusiasts to the starting points of its five runs, situated nearly twenty-five stories above ground.
These runs cater to various skill levels, culminating in the world’s premier indoor black diamond course, renowned for its formidable challenge. Beyond skiing and snowboarding, Ski Dubai offers a sprawling 30,000-square-foot snow park complete with an ice cave, toboggan runs, ice slides, snowball fight zones, and an engaging penguin encounter. Maintaining a consistent indoor temperature of 30-35 degrees Fahrenheit, Ski Dubai provides year-round winter wonderland experiences.
Penguin Petting Zoo
Est. Value: $40-$140/ticket*
Produced by: Majid Al Futtaim Group
In 2005, The Mall of the Emirates claimed the title of the world’s largest mall. Five years later, it astounded visitors by introducing a ski resort within its vast premises. However, the surprises didn’t stop there. A few years later, The Penguin Experience emerged within Ski Dubai, offering an extraordinary opportunity to interact with King and Gentoo penguins.
With ticket prices ranging from $40 to $140, various penguin encounters cater to different preferences. The pricier tickets allow enthusiasts to closely interact with and even pet the penguins, under strict supervision. Even the more affordable tickets provide the chance to wander through an ice cave and observe these adorable creatures up close. These penguins, hailing from Antarctica, fearlessly engage with humans, as they lack land predators in their natural habitat.
Elite Ambulances
Est. Value: $150,000-$200,000*
Produced by: Allstate Limo
Dubai has redefined the ambulance experience by introducing a fleet of converted limousines designed to alleviate the stress of medical emergencies. These luxurious ambulance limos are available to anyone in Dubai with a standard medical plan, covering all associated expenses. One notable advantage is the inclusion of space for an additional passenger, ensuring loved ones can accompany the patient to the hospital.
However, these limo ambulances cater exclusively to non-emergencies, excluding critical cases or regular pedestrians. They primarily serve patients referred by their doctors for medical transfers and facility transitions across the emirate, offering a unique and comforting approach to healthcare transportation.
Mustang Motorcycles
Est. Value: $5,000-$10,000*
Produced by: Custom Made
In Dubai, opulent automobiles have become an everyday spectacle, with Emiratis sparing no expense on their personal transport, ranging from Lamborghinis to oversized Jeeps. Flashiness and luxury are the norms, with anything less deemed insufficient. A unique twist on the classic Mustang motorcycle has emerged in Dubai, embodying the spirit of extravagance.
Crafted in the likeness of an Arabian horse, this custom bike initially captured the fascination of a horse enthusiast and has since spurred a trend. These Emirati “Mustang-Motorcycles” have taken the city by storm, drawing attention and admiration. Meanwhile, the debut of the Avatar Mustang, inspired by James Cameron’s film, adds an alien touch to the S550 Ford Mustang, raising curiosity about its potential impact on Dubai’s automotive scene.
Falcon Flights
Est. Value: $40,000-$100,000*
Produced by: N/A
Owning a falcon stands as a paramount status symbol in Dubai, where the national bird of the UAE receives unparalleled reverence, often surpassing the treatment of people in other nations. Pet owners worldwide fret over the well-being of their animals during air travel, where dogs and cats occupy separate plane sections. However, in the UAE, falcons are held in such high esteem that they accompany their owners uncaged within passenger compartments, even enjoying their designated seats during the flight.
Falcons are truly extraordinary creatures, boasting thin, agile wings that enable speeds of up to 200 miles per hour and instantaneous direction changes. Their remarkable intelligence places them on par with crows and ravens, cementing their status as awe-inspiring birds.
Diamond-Encrusted Mercedes
Est. Value: $4.8 Million*
Produced by: Mercedes
In Dubai, indulgence reaches artistic heights, with residents turning spending into an extravagant form of self-expression. Among the city’s jaw-dropping vehicles, none command more attention than the diamond-encrusted Mercedes. Saudi Prince (Amir) al-Waleed bin Talal bin Abdul-Aziz adorned his Mercedes with over 300,000 diamonds, an opulent touch that cost a mere $4.8 million for someone ranked among the world’s top ten wealthiest individuals.
Astonishingly, reports suggest that merely laying a finger on this luxurious car incurred a $1,000 fee. This SL500 model was created to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of the SL500 in 2007 and made its dazzling debut at the Dubai Auto Show, renowned for showcasing the planet’s most extravagantly luxurious automobiles.
ATMs for Gold Bars
Est. Value: 56/gram of 24K gold*
Produced by: TG Gold-Super-Markt
Visitors to the UAE need not fret over acquiring some extra cash or even a gold bar, for the Gold To Go gold bar ATM has them covered. Introduced in the Emirates in 2010, this unique machine stocks an astonishing array of 320 gold items, including custom coins and 24-carat gold bars, each worth approximately $1.46 million and securely sealed in plastic upon dispensing.
Worries about current prices or theft are unnecessary, as the machine constantly updates prices via an encrypted internet connection every minute. Security measures include surveillance cameras, armored construction, and resilience to explosives, ensuring a safe and up-to-the-minute gold-buying experience.
Actual Batmobile
Est. Value: $~1 Million*
Produced by: Ideal Classic Cars
Dubai offers a surreal escape from the norms of the Western World, a playground for those drawn to extravagance. The cityscape is vast, the opulence is dazzling, and the cars are in a class of their own. Strolling through Dubai’s streets evokes the ambiance of video games like Gran Turismo or Grand Theft Auto, with its extravagant and eye-catching automobiles that seem plucked from virtual realms.
Among them, an actual Batmobile, though Bruce Wayne is unlikely to be at the wheel. Mistaking it for the Dark Knight himself during a night out is a common occurrence, as the UAE boasts several of these high-powered Batmobiles, capable of exceeding 150 mph and embodying a whimsical touch of reality.
Gold-Painted Jeep Grand Cherokees
Est. Value: $300,000-$500,000*
Produced by: FCA US LLC
Life in Dubai often feels like a relentless pursuit, where residents not only contend with their daily occupations but also invest vast sums to manifest their childhood fantasies, a potentially exhausting endeavor. While not everyone can indulge in the allure of a new Ferrari or Lamborghini, some opt for the more accessible Jeep Grand Cherokee.
Yet, for those yearning to elevate their Cherokee above the rush-hour masses, there’s a solution. For a mere couple hundred thousand dollars, in addition to the vehicle’s original price, Jeep owners can drape their cars in a resplendent coat of 24K gold paint. Standard Jeep repainting typically costs $3,000 to $5,000, but with the addition of the opulent gold finish, expenses can escalate to a staggering $10,000.
Artificial Man-Made “Palm Island”
Est. Value: $12 Billion*
Produced by: Nakheel
Dubai’s Palm Islands, funded by lucrative petroleum sales, cost a relatively modest $12 billion and were completed in just six years. Employing a cutting-edge GPS system, a fleet of dredgers tirelessly worked day and night to displace and accurately distribute 120 million cubic meters of seabed sand, shaping the iconic palm tree structure.
The Palm ‘Jumeirah’ comprises approximately 1,500 beachfront mansions on the seventeen fronds and 6,000 apartments on the trunk, collectively spanning an area equivalent to around 600 soccer fields. To put the colossal scale in perspective, the sand used could construct a two-meter wall encircling the Earth’s circumference three times, sourced from ocean depths, while the foundations alone consist of seven million tons of rock from the Hajar Mountains.
High-Rise Tennis Courts
Est. Value: $1,000-$28,000/night*
Produced by: Burj al Arab hotel
Perched over a thousand feet in the sky atop the Burj al Arab hotel, Dubai boasts the most elevated rooftop tennis court in its skyline. In a striking prelude to the Dubai Duty-Free Open of 2005, tennis legends Roger Federer and Andre Agassi engaged in a friendly match on this record-setting court.
While a night’s stay at the Burj al Arab can range from $1,000 to $28,000, every hotel guest enjoys the remarkable opportunity to play a set or two on this exclusive 7-Star rooftop court. It’s an irresistible invitation, although players must bear in mind the potential gravity of an errant shot, as the court extends over the water, albeit with minimal risk to unsuspecting patrons a thousand feet below.
Double Decker Jeep
Est. Value: $250,000*
Produced by: FCA US LLC
In Dubai’s architectural wonderland, the concept of a side-by-side Jeep, spanning multiple lanes due to its remarkable width, might baffle North Americans but finds wholehearted acceptance. This unique double-decker Jeep creation, fittingly produced by Chrysler, is a rare sight in the United States due to import restrictions.
Unlike the customary stretch limos or minibusses found stateside, the purpose remains unchanged: transporting more passengers efficiently from point A to B. Owners of these Jeep Wranglers exemplify Dubai’s ethos that money can materialize almost any desire. These family-sized vehicles, featuring six wheels for stability, offer passengers an unusually comfortable yet distinctive ride.
Pet Cheetahs
Est. Value: $3, 500*
Produced by: The Black Market
Emiratis often use domesticated cheetahs as symbols of their status, showcasing these majestic cats as pets. While cheetahs are typically reserved creatures, they can be seen strolling alongside their owners or riding in luxury vehicles, enhancing the owner’s prestige. However, the notion of keeping such a capriciously unpredictable animal as a pet carries the risk of unfortunate accidents.
Similar to the consequences faced by pet tiger owners, those with pet cheetahs risk substantial fines and the confiscation of their feline companions. Moreover, owning a cheetah as a pet is ethically questionable, as these magnificent creatures naturally belong in the wild, where captivity often leads to numerous health issues. Preserving their natural habitat, rather than domesticating them for status, is a more humane choice.
Table Football Arena out of Gold
Est. Value: $30,000*
Produced by: Lux
Dubai’s elite penchant for opulence extends to gaming equipment, exemplified by the Lux Gold Foosball table, a mesmerizing spectacle. This extraordinary table boasts a resplendent gold finish, adorned with dazzling Swarovski crystals, evoking an air of regal luxury. Customizability is a hallmark of the Lux, offering customers a choice of twelve distinct table variations, even permitting the inclusion of team or company logos. Constructed with stainless steel rods and unbreakable glass ESG, this foosball table allows for full customization of colors. A testament to Dubai’s penchant for extravagance, the Lux Gold Foosball table is a crown jewel in the world of gaming.
Burj Khalifa: World’s Tallest Building
Est. Value: $1.5 Billion*
Produced by: Emaar Properties
In 2004, contractor Samsung C&T embarked on the construction of The Burj Khalifa, following plans devised by architect Adrian Smith and his team. This colossal endeavor yielded the world’s tallest building, standing at an astonishing 2,716.5 feet, achieved in a mere five years. However, the project was not without its tribulations, including initial financial challenges faced by Emaar property developers. Graciously, UAE ruler Sheikh Khalifa intervened, providing crucial funding and support, ultimately lending his name to the project.
The 160-story skyscraper garnered predominantly favorable critical acclaim for its architecture and structural achievements. Interestingly, the real economic beneficiaries emerged among the neighboring hotels, condominiums, and malls in Downtown Dubai, reaping greater profits from The Burj Khalifa than the iconic building itself.
Rolls Royce Taxi
Est. Value: $500,000*
Produced by: Dubai’s Taxi Service
We’re all familiar with the convenience of ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft for our everyday transportation needs. However, in Dubai, a rather extraordinary occurrence is quite common – when a sleek $500,000 luxury car arrives to whisk you away to your destination. To celebrate the Dubai Motor Festival, Dubai’s taxi service revamped its fleet with a touch of opulence.
Among the options available, passengers can now choose to be chauffeured in Rolls Royce, Lamborghini, and Ferrari taxis, ensuring a lavish ride anywhere within the city. Dubai residents are accustomed to such extravagance, as even the police maintain a fleet of luxurious patrol cars, making high-end vehicles a ubiquitous sight on the city’s streets.
Private Turtle Collections
Est. Value: $200-$500*
Produced by: N/A
While dogs and cats make wonderful companions for many, Dubai’s residents exhibit a penchant for more exotic and endangered creatures. A symbol of their status, some Emiratis boast majestic felines like tigers or cheetahs patrolling their opulent estates, while others prefer the company of slower, less agile beings.
It’s not unusual to stumble upon a neighbor’s remarkable collection of living turtles, making these fascinating reptiles a popular choice. Desert turtles, in particular, find favor due to their low water requirements, although they may not be the friendliest of creatures, displaying a touch of aggression. Those seeking a more traditional pet might consider a sea turtle and even construct a large pond in their yard.
Edible Gold Desserts
Est. Value: $1,000*
Produced by: Bloomsbury’s Cafe
The UAE has rapidly emerged as a haven for those who relish life’s opulence, boasting an array of luxurious cars, exotic pets, and, not surprisingly, indulgent cuisine. Beyond its culinary delights, Dubai has set a gold standard in dining experiences.
Bloomsbury’s Cafe, nestled within one of Dubai’s sprawling shopping malls, stands out by offering the world’s priciest cupcake. The ‘Golden Phoenix Cupcake,’ akin to its counterparts in taste, features a distinctive ingredient – a lavish 24K edible gold sheet. In its first two years, a mere fifteen of these golden confections were savored, primarily by the elite ruling class, marking Dubai’s penchant for extravagance.
Pet Tigers
Est. Value: $5,000-$30,000*
Produced by: N/A
When visiting foreign countries, one can anticipate encountering unexpected sights. In India, it’s not unusual to spot someone atop an elephant instead of a car, while parts of North America may surprise with individuals keeping pet foxes or alligators.
For years in Dubai, it was once commonplace to witness people strolling the streets with their pet tigers or lions. Fortunately, the ownership of these exotic felines has waned in Dubai since their prohibition more than four years ago. Despite the substantial $136,000 fine, status-conscious individuals might still risk it rather than jeopardize their image, even though that same amount could secure them a water car with $1,000 to spare.
4-Carat Gold Facials
Est. Value: $6,800*
Produced by: Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
In Dubai, where golden opportunities abound, the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on Palm Jumeirah offers a truly opulent experience: the ’24K Gold Facial Treatment.’ This isn’t just a standard facial; it’s a regal indulgence. Starting with an Argan oil massage and culminating in a caviar lunch, it offers the epitome of relaxation and luxury.
The $6,800 price tag isn’t merely for gourmet cuisine and a soothing massage; it’s for the transformative 24K gold chain mask used during the facial. These masks, with their high cost and exquisite appearance, are believed to possess rejuvenating properties, leaving the skin with a more youthful glow.
Free Food at the Supermarket
Est. Value: N/A
Produced by: N/A
Certain supermarkets in Dubai have adopted a heartwarming approach to help those in need. Despite Dubai’s reputation for opulence and costly cuisine, the city, like any other, has its share of individuals facing economic challenges. To address this, some grocery stores have introduced initiatives such as free grocery delivery services, complimentary samples, and meals for those less fortunate.
Additionally, they offer discounted and even free food items, taking advantage of the surplus caused by reduced tourism during 2020-2021. These compassionate gestures demonstrate that even in a city known for extravagance, a spirit of empathy and community support prevails.
Rush Hour Car Shows
Est. Value: N/A
Produced by: Daily Commuters
Getting caught in rush hour traffic can easily turn one’s day sour. Hours of being immobilized in a vehicle, inching forward ever so slowly, can test anyone’s patience. However, rush hour in Dubai is far from mundane; it often resembles a high-end car exhibition.
Dubai’s rush hour is anything but dull. With a deep-seated penchant for luxury automobiles like Ferraris, Bugattis, and Lamborghinis, the daily commute can transform into a dazzling spectacle. It’s not uncommon to spot a dozen million-dollar cars on Dubai’s roads regularly. A chance encounter with a gold-plated Mercedes or even the Batmobile wouldn’t raise eyebrows.
Dubai Miracle Garden
Est. Value: ~$11 Million*
Produced by: Cityland Real Estate Development
The Dubai Miracle Garden, the world’s largest natural flower garden, blossomed with an estimated $11 million investment and opened its gates to the public on Valentine’s Day in 2013. Within its expansive confines, the garden boasts a staggering forty-five million varieties of flowers, just a fraction of the more than 250 million plants flourishing in this botanical marvel. However, the garden’s attractions don’t end with its vibrant blooms.
Two years after its initial opening, the Dubai Miracle Garden introduced a captivating addition: the world’s largest indoor butterfly garden and sanctuary, occupying 780,000 square feet. Home to twenty-six distinct butterfly species and hosting over 15,000 of these delicate creatures, it’s no surprise that this extraordinary garden draws visitors from around the globe.
Diamond-Encrusted Nokia Phones
Est. Value: $170,000*
Produced by: Nokia
In the face of skyrocketing smartphone prices, it’s not surprising that some Emiratis have turned to a familiar classic: Nokia cell phones. Their resurgence in Dubai isn’t driven by sleek designs or cutting-edge operating systems but rather their affordability.
Among the Nokia models, the Nokia Supreme stands out as a luxury cell phone, adorned with 12.5 carats of pink diamonds meticulously hand-placed around its frame. While a gold-plated iPad may catch one’s eye, a diamond-encrusted cell phone priced at $170,000 has become a symbol of status and extravagance in Dubai.
Afternoon Stunts
Est. Value: $600*
Produced by: Skydive Dubai
Dubai offers a thrill-seeker’s paradise with high-rise rooftop zip-lining and sea-side flyboarding. From mild to wild, the city caters to adrenaline junkies of all kinds. For an exhilarating descent over The Palm, Dubai’s skydiving experience ranks among the world’s most breathtaking, surprisingly affordable at $600 USD.
However, Dubai isn’t just about skydiving; it’s known for its daring base jumpers and even car surfers defying gravity on busy roads. Whether it’s high-speed zip-lining or heart-pounding stunts, Dubai provides a playground for extreme sports enthusiasts from around the globe.
Marble Horse Stables
Est. Value: Unknown
Produced by: Godolphin Racing
In Dubai, showcasing wealth often involves indulging in opulent extravagances, not only for oneself but also for exotic pets. Alongside spending thousands on golden desserts, affluent individuals spare no expense to provide lavish accommodations for their animal companions. The Godolphin Stables, housing horses for the world’s wealthiest horse race, exemplify luxury.
Owned by Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, these stables boast marble floors, painted walls, and impeccable climate control, offering top-tier comfort and care to their prized equine residents.
World’s Fastest Ambulances
Est. Value: $270,000*
Produced by: Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS)
In Dubai, the Dubai Corporation for Ambulance Services (DCAS) has revolutionized emergency response by transforming a fleet of five sports cars into super ambulances. These high-performance vehicles can reach speeds of up to 185 mph, ensuring a rapid response time of under five minutes to emergency scenes.
Equipped with comprehensive first aid supplies, these luxury ambulances provide initial medical care while waiting for the arrival of the traditional ambulance. Deployed throughout Dubai, these super ambulances primarily focus on tourist hotspots and densely populated areas, prioritizing swift and efficient emergency assistance.
Dubai Mall
Est. Value: $7 Million*
Produced by: Emaar Properties
Covering nearly 5.5 million square feet of retail space, this mall boasts over 1,200 retail stores, making it the world’s largest mall in terms of area. While it ranks as the 26th largest in terms of leasable space, the facility spans four sprawling floors and offers over 14,000 parking spaces for both staff and shoppers.
The mall caters to visitors of all ages, featuring a captivating underwater zoo with 300+ marine animals, including a diverse array of sharks and rays. For those seeking thrills, VR Park Dubai within the mall promises an immersive experience, and to top it off, Dubai Dino awaits with a genuine Diplodocus fossil for dinosaur enthusiasts of all ages.
Rooftop Boxing Practice
Est. Value: $15-$80/hour*
Produced by: Sofitel Hotels & Resorts
Nestled atop the Sofitel The Palms Dubai, the Extreme Fitness gym offers a unique boxing experience with a view that goes beyond the ordinary. Priced quite reasonably at $80, visitors to the hotel can enjoy a one-hour training session with a professional trainer while taking in the breathtaking scenery.
For those simply seeking the bragging rights of stepping into a rooftop boxing ring with such a spectacular view, ring rental comes at an affordable rate of about $15 per hour. However, it’s advisable to book the ring well in advance, as it’s often in high demand with reservations filling up quickly.
Hot Air Balloon Ride over Dubai Desert
Est. Value: $350*
Produced by: Viator
Imagine soaring above Dubai’s desert, a vast expanse of red and orange sand dunes reflecting the rising sun, concealing a world teeming with hidden life. Now, stop imagining, because for nearly half the price of tandem skydiving, you can have this experience and more.
This package includes breakfast, a mesmerizing falcon show, and a 60-minute air safari, providing breathtaking views of the Dubai desert. It’s an opportunity to witness the desert’s beauty from a unique perspective and savor a different kind of adventure.
Uber XXXL
Est. Value: $8-$10/10-minute ride*
Produced by: Uber
The availability of modern transportation options, largely facilitated by ride-hailing apps like Uber, has significantly improved urban mobility. However, the occasional frustration of waiting for an available driver can test one’s patience, particularly when punctuality is paramount. In such cases, the willingness to pay a bit more for immediate access to a luxury car becomes a worthwhile choice.
In Dubai, the experience of ordering an Uber X differs from many other places around the world. Investing a little extra in the fare is often rewarded, as the city’s high concentration of luxury sports cars means that, occasionally, a Lamborghini or Bugatti driver will respond to the request.
Camel Street Parking
Est. Value: N/A
Produced by: N/A
Finding suitable parking spots for luxury cars like Ferraris or Batmobiles can be quite challenging in Dubai. Sometimes, opting for a different mode of transportation, like a camel, can be more convenient. Camels, when in a good mood, offer a reliable means of getting around and can be parked in various places.
Imagine spending a day at the world’s largest mall, and after navigating the extensive 14,000-spot parking lot, you’re surprised to see a camel parked beside your rental car. Just keep in mind that camels can be temperamental creatures, and they might occasionally exhibit less-than-friendly behavior, such as spitting.
Luxury Race Car Test Drives
Est. Value: $5,500*
Produced by: Dream Racing
Since its inception in 2015, Dream Racing in Dubai has been making race car enthusiasts’ dreams come true with their test drive program. Priced at $5,500, this exhilarating experience includes all necessary equipment, a comprehensive training session, and, notably, insurance coverage for peace of mind.
Participants can choose between two former F1 cars driven by racing legends Heinz-Harald Frentzen and Eddie Irvine: the F1 Jaguar 2000 or the F1 Arrows 2002. Both vehicles are capable of reaching speeds of approximately 200mph, making it crucial for drivers to be proficient in manual driving and high-speed control.
World’s Highest Rope Climbing Plattform
Est. Value: N/A
Produced by: Meraas
In their relentless pursuit of diverse tourism, the Dubai government has continually pushed the boundaries of innovation. Among their remarkable feats is the Bluewaters Island project, which includes the construction of a colossal 500-foot high rope climbing platform adjacent to the Ain Dubai observation wheel.
Once completed, this structure will reign as the world’s tallest of its kind. Its creation stems from the ambition to entice thrill-seekers to experience adventure in one of the planet’s most affluent cities, showcasing Dubai’s commitment to grandeur and exceptional attractions.
