Where to Stay in Dubai

Dubai is a goliath of UAE getaways, truly offering something for everyone. Its vibrant tapestry is woven with individual neighbourhoods – each offering a distinct flavour. There’s the urban heart of the city – Downtown Dubai, the thrumming souks of Deira, the beachy brilliance of Palm Jumeirah and the yacht-spotted glam of Dubai Marina.

This variety ensures there's a perfect neighbourhood just waiting to be explored by every kind of holidaymaker. But it may also leave you wondering where to stay in Dubai! Don’t fret – this article is a one-stop shop for helping you make that decision. So whether you’re in it for a romantic retreat, family fun or a turbo-charged treat-yourself extravaganza, start your journey right here.

Dubai Marina

Experience waterfront living at its finest at this J-shaped man-made marina lined with luxurious yachts and towering skyscrapers. Whether you dream of cruising the turquoise waters on a private yacht or indulging in retail therapy at high-end boutiques, Dubai Marina offers an unparalleled blend of luxury, leisure and breathtaking scenery.

• Where is it? Dubai Marina is in western Dubai. It's a man-made canal city built along a roughly 3km stretch of the Arabian Gulf shoreline.
• How do I get there from Dubai International Airport? Take a taxi or hop on the Red Line to Dubai Marina Mall Station.

The Palm Dubai

Live the high life in this iconic palm-shaped neighbourhood. The man-made island extends into the turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf, offering a harmonious mixture of luxury, leisure and stunning views. Families can build sandcastles on sugary shores, discover the underwater world at Lost Chambers Aquarium or relax at kids’ clubs, in amongst celebrity spotting and savouring a world of culinary delights.

• Where is it? Palm Jumeirah is just off the coast of Jumeirah, Dubai. It extends into the Persian Gulf in the shape of a palm tree with a crescent framing it around the outside.
• How do I get there from Dubai International Airport? Get a taxi all the way to your destination or take the monorail onto the island from the Palm Jumeirah Gateway station. You could also take the tram from Dubai Marina Mall Metro Station.

Downtown Dubai

Downtown Dubai invites you to immerse yourself in the heart of the emirate’s modern marvels. Think of it as the centre of the modern city, close to some of Dubai's most famous tourist attractions like the towering Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain. From adrenaline rushes to unforgettable retail experiences, Downtown Dubai caters to every wanderlusting wish.

• Where is it? Downtown Dubai is located in the central area of Dubai. It's not directly on the coast but sits a little inland.
• How do I get there from Dubai International Airport? Take a taxi or catch the Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station in Downtown Dubai.

JBR Dubai

Embrace the sunshine at Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), a vibrant beachfront community buzzing with life. Picture a kilometre-long stretch of pristine golden sand lapped by the turquoise Arabian Gulf, perfect for sunbathing, swimming or trying your hand at water sports. Whether you're seeking family fun, a romantic stroll or an exciting night out, JBR's beachy energy promises an unforgettable experience.

• Where is it? JBR spans 1.7km, bordering the Arabian Gulf to the north and Dubai Marina to the east.
• How do I get there from Dubai International Airport? Access JBR using the Dubai Metro (Jumeirah Lake Towers and Dubai Marina stations) and the Dubai Tram, which runs through the area.

Deira

Unveiling Dubai's soul, Deira is a historic labyrinth where tradition thrives. Spice-scented souks overflowing with treasures, glittering displays of gold and traditional abra rides across Dubai Creek create a sensory overload in the best way possible. Lose yourself among the stalls and local businesses, savour authentic Emirati cuisine and experience the warmth of Arabian hospitality.

• Where is it? Deira sits on the northern end of Dubai Creek, within the city limits of Dubai itself.
• How do I get there from Dubai International Airport? If you don’t want to take a taxi, you can catch the Red Line from Terminals 1 and 3 and get off at Union Station, which is located right in Deira.

Bur Dubai

Step back in time and experience the epicentre of Dubai's heritage in Bur Dubai. Here, narrow alleyways lined with amber-coloured wind towers tell tales of a bygone era and a combination of museums, galleries and marketplaces paint a picture of colourful Emirati customs. When you’re ready for another dose of Dubai’s more contemporary highlights, a 15-minute cab ride will put you right at the base of the neck-craning Burj Khalifa.

• Where is it? Bur Dubai is located on the western shores of Dubai Creek.
• How do I get there from Dubai International Airport? Catch a taxi or take the Red Line and get off at BurJuman Metro Station 2.

Dubai Creek Harbour

Dubai Creek Harbour is a chilled-out waterfront district where futuristic architecture kisses the sky and the turquoise waters of Dubai Creek lap at your feet. It’s no wonder that this spot has been chosen for visionary projects like Dubai Square, which will feature a huge mall, a wildlife sanctuary and a rooftop waterpark once complete. For now, enjoy the harmonious hum of the harbourside.

• Where is it? Dubai Creek Harbour is located along the Dubai Creek, east of Downtown Dubai and southeast of Business Bay.
• How do I get there from Dubai International Airport? Take the Dubai Metro to Union Metro Station. From there, you can walk to Dubai Creek Harbour in about 10 minutes.

Jebel Ali Dubai

Sometimes overshadowed by Dubai's glitzier districts, Jebel Ali might pleasantly surprise you. Adrenaline seekers can scream on coasters at Dubai Parks and Resorts, while luxury awaits at beachfront JA Resorts. Experience the diverse Jebel Ali Village – a tapestry of cultures and religions, and discover a hidden side of Dubai where adventure, heritage and some of the emirate’s most loved hotels collide.

• Where is it? Jebel Ali is situated southwest of Dubai's city centre, bordering the emirate of Abu Dhabi to the south.
• How do I get there from Dubai International Airport? If you’re not arriving by car, you can take the metro Red Line to the UAE Exchange station, which is the final stop on the line and serves Jebel Ali.