• Home
• /
• UAE

Places to see in Dubai that are NOT Burj Khalifa

Dubai - ...or Burj Al Arab, or Dubai Mall. Because let's face it, everybody knows that.

Read more...

The postcard image of Dubai includes either one of two things - the Burj Khalifa or the Burj Al Arab. To that effect, these are also the places that tourists come to visit and see along with a tour of the Dubai Mall and the dancing fountains of the Burj.
But that's not all that Dubai has to offer right?
The answer to that is yes. There a lot of other places in Dubai that are worth seeing! Dubai is not just confined to the places we see in postcards or travel diaries. Dubai is a fairly large city and in every corner of the town is something hidden in plain view but worth visiting, here's some of them.

Alserkal Avenue

 

A photo posted by Debbie Fortes (@debbiefortes) on May 18, 2015 at 12:52am PDT

Dubbed as the hub of arts and creativity. Alserkal Avenue is one of Dubai's gems hidden among the industrial avenues of the Al Quoz area. Alserkal is not an avenue in a literal sense but a group of warehouses converted to art galleries and cafes. Experience local art and indulge in artisan coffees and sweets.
How to get there: Take the Metro towards FGB Metro Station and outside is bus #12 going towards Al Quoz Bus Station. Be careful as there are TWO different #12 buses! Take the #12 bus and alight at the second to last stop. Alserkal will be across the road.

Al Satwa

 

A photo posted by Sheena (@sheenamau) on Feb 26, 2016 at 11:51pm PST

Just beyond the uptown glitz of Jumeirah is the classic soul of Al Satwa. Revered by photographers and urban explorers, Al Satwa allows tourists to see a different view of Dubai and while you're at it even enjoy budget finds from one of the bazaars and complete meals for the family under Dh50.
How to get there: The fastest way to reach the heart of Al Satwa is taking the Metro to Al Jafiliya and taking bus 32C which will end at Satwa Bus Station. From there the district is very accessible and everything is a walk away.

DIFC Gate Village

 

A photo posted by Herald . Dubai (@heraldherrera) on Oct 26, 2016 at 4:07am PDT

Another hub of arts, the Gate Village is on the fancier end of the spectrum with works from world-class artists and galleries from worldwide. Christie's Auction House is also here.
How to get there: Getting to Gate Village is easy! Alight at Emirates Towers Metro Station, walk towards the back and DIFC will be ahead next to the Ritz-Carlton Dubai.

Citywalk Dubai

 

A photo posted by Ryan Miglinczy (@ryanmig) on May 20, 2016 at 7:21am PDT

Citywalk is one of the newest developments in Dubai, providing a Beverly Hills-esque environment with a spectacular backdrop of the Burj Khalifa. Citywalk is also surrounded by designer shops and fancy restaurants and is a great outdoor offering compared to the malls. Think of it this way, see the world's tallest building without crowds of fellow onlookers battling to take the same photo.
How to get there: Due to being a little bit out of way, buses are out of the window since they go around the area and you'd have to walk a fair bit. That being said, cabs are the best way to get to this beautiful new district.