Wednesday, 01 April 2026

7 Dubai Attractions Every Traveller Should Know About

Discover seven of Dubai’s most popular attractions, along with practical travel tips to help you enjoy a smoother and more memorable visit.
Published: Saturday, March 14, 2026
7 Dubai Attractions Every Traveller Should Know About
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Dubai is one of the most popular travel destinations in the United Arab Emirates, known for its modern skyline, luxury lifestyle, artificial islands, beachfront attractions and world-famous landmarks. For first-time visitors, planning ahead can make the trip smoother and more enjoyable. Here is a travel-friendly guide to seven major attractions in Dubai, along with useful tips for travellers.

Burj Al Arab

Burj Al Arab is one of Dubai’s most recognisable landmarks and is often known as the world’s only seven-star luxury hotel. The 321-metre structure stands on an artificial island near Jumeirah Beach and is designed in the shape of a sail.

The hotel is famous for its luxury services and elegant interior. Rooms include 24-carat gold iPads that guests can use to access hotel and restaurant information. A night at the hotel costs around AED 4,500.

Travel tip: Even if you are not staying there, the area around Jumeirah Beach offers good photo spots. It is best to visit in the late afternoon or around sunset for clearer views and better lighting.

Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and one of Dubai’s biggest attractions. Also known as Dubai Tower, it has 160 floors and rises to 2,717 feet. The building includes a hotel, mosque, apartments, offices, entertainment facilities and the world’s highest observation deck.

It also has 54 elevators that can travel at speeds of up to 40 miles per hour. One of the main highlights is the observation deck above the 124th floor, where visitors can enjoy panoramic views across the city and beyond.

Travel tip: Try to go early in the morning or around sunrise to avoid heavy crowds and enjoy better visibility. Booking tickets in advance can also save time and help you avoid long queues.

The Fountain

The Fountain is one of Dubai’s most popular evening attractions. This large choreographed water show lasts about three to six minutes and performs to around 6,500 musical selections.

During the evening, the fountain is lit by 6,600 lights and 25 colour projectors, creating a striking visual display. The bright lighting can reportedly be seen from more than 20 miles away. Shows usually take place every 15 to 20 minutes.

Travel tip: This is a good stop for evening visitors. Arrive a little earlier to get a better viewing spot, especially during weekends or holiday periods. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended because the surrounding area can involve a lot of walking.

Atlantis The Palm

Atlantis The Palm is a luxury resort located on Palm Jumeirah, one of Dubai’s best-known artificial islands. The resort is popular for its grand design, upscale atmosphere and leisure-focused environment.

It is a favourite among holidaymakers and is also known to attract celebrities. Many visitors go there for a luxury stay, dining experience or simply to enjoy the surroundings.

Travel tip: This area is ideal for travellers looking for a resort-style experience. It is also a good place for families and couples. Carry a camera or keep your phone charged, as the location offers many scenic photo opportunities.

Palm Island

Palm Island is among Dubai’s most famous man-made developments. Built to support tourism growth, the three islands were designed in the shape of a palm tree and created using sand in the sea.

The islands feature luxury hotels, resorts, private beaches, apartments, swimming pools, theme parks, restaurants, shopping centres, hospitals and sports facilities. It is considered one of Dubai’s most ambitious tourism projects.

Travel tip: The area is spread out, so transport planning is important. Travellers may find taxis or ride-hailing apps more convenient when visiting multiple places in one day. It is also wise to plan your stops in advance to save time.

Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai offers a surprising winter experience in the middle of the desert. Covering 22,500 square metres, it is an indoor ski lounge that includes the world’s first 400-metre-long black run.

The attraction gives visitors a chance to enjoy snow activities and see Gentoo and King penguins up close. Guests can also swim with the penguins or watch them through a large glass wall. The temperature inside drops to minus 6 degrees Fahrenheit, creating a true winter atmosphere.

Travel tip: Bring warm socks and be prepared for the cold, even though special clothing is required inside. This is a good option for travellers visiting Dubai during very hot weather, especially families with children.

Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is a stylish waterfront district known for its high-rise buildings, luxury towers and lively atmosphere. It is one of the city’s most attractive areas for sightseeing, dining and leisure.

Visitors can explore the marina by water taxi or join a cruise. Sunset views and dinner experiences are among the main reasons tourists choose this part of the city.

Travel tip: Evening is one of the best times to visit Dubai Marina. The weather is usually more pleasant, and the skyline looks especially impressive after dark. It is also a good place to relax after a full day of sightseeing.

Extra Tips for Travellers Visiting Dubai

Dubai can be easier to explore if travellers keep a few practical things in mind. The city is modern and tourist-friendly, but planning ahead still helps.

Use light and comfortable clothing during the day, but carry a light jacket for indoor places because malls, hotels and attractions are often heavily air-conditioned. Keep water with you, especially if you are travelling outdoors for long periods.

Public transport, taxis and ride-hailing services are widely available, so moving between attractions is usually convenient. It is also helpful to check ticket prices and opening hours before leaving for major attractions, as this can save both time and money.

For travellers visiting religious or family-oriented public places, modest clothing is still a good choice. It is also wise to keep a power bank, sunscreen and a copy of your hotel location on your phone, especially if you plan to move around the city a lot in one day.

Dubai offers a mix of luxury, modern design and entertainment in a single destination. With the right planning, travellers can enjoy its top attractions comfortably and make the most of their visit.

Source: jagonews24

Emirates Offers Rebooking and Refund Options for Passengers Affected by Disruptions

Published: Thursday, March 19, 2026
Emirates Offers Rebooking and Refund Options for Passengers Affected by Disruptions
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Passengers holding Emirates bookings for travel between 28 February and 15 April 2026 who experience flight disruptions — or who wish to change their travel plans — can choose between rebooking and requesting a refund.

Rebooking: Customers may move to an alternative Emirates service to reach their intended destination for travel on or before 31 May 2026. If the original departure is within 72 hours, travellers can make changes through Manage Your Booking or via the Emirates mobile app. For travel dates beyond the 72‑hour window, Emirates asks customers to seek help through its support channels.

Refunds: Passengers may request refunds by completing the online refund form. Emirates advises allowing up to 15 days for refund requests to be processed.

Customers who purchased tickets through travel agents should contact their agent for assistance with rebooking or refunds. Emirates also reminds travellers to verify their flight status before travelling to the airport and to consult the latest operational information.

Saudi Arabia Sets Deadlines for Umrah Visas and Pilgrim Departures

Published: Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Saudi Arabia Sets Deadlines for Umrah Visas and Pilgrim Departures
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Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah has announced key deadlines for the current Umrah season, specifying that the issuance of Umrah visas will end on the first day of Shawwal. Pilgrims will be permitted to enter the Kingdom until Shawwal 15, while all Umrah pilgrims must depart by the first day of Dhul Qada.

The announcement was made during the ministry’s 17th periodic virtual meeting with licensed Umrah companies, held on Saturday. Officials used the session to reiterate compliance requirements ahead of the Hajj season, emphasizing that Hajj rituals must only be performed with a valid Hajj visa and not under an Umrah permit.

Minister of Hajj and Umrah Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah praised service providers for their coordination during Ramadan, highlighting their role in assisting pilgrims, resolving cases involving stranded visitors, and ensuring their safe return home.

He also called for continued adherence to operational guidelines, including managing staggered arrival schedules at airports and regularly updating departure information through the Nusk Masar platform.

In addition, the minister encouraged companies to take part in the third Umrah and Visit Forum scheduled for 2026, aimed at strengthening collaboration and sharing expertise across the sector.

The meeting featured a review of performance indicators from the current Umrah season, along with discussions on preparations for the upcoming forum. Participants examined opportunities to enhance partnerships and improve service delivery for pilgrims.

These regular meetings form part of the ministry’s broader effort to maintain coordination with industry stakeholders and to advance service standards, in line with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals to improve the overall experience for Umrah pilgrims and visitors.

Iran Conflict Disrupts Middle East Air Travel, Affecting Nearly Six Million Passengers

Published: Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Iran Conflict Disrupts Middle East Air Travel, Affecting Nearly Six Million Passengers
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Nearly six million airline passengers have been affected by widespread flight cancellations across the Middle East following the outbreak of the Iran conflict that began on February 28.

Data from aviation analytics firm Cirium indicates that between February 28 and March 13, airlines scheduled more than 98,000 flights to and from destinations across the Middle East. However, over 52,000 of those flights were canceled during the period, significantly disrupting regional and international travel.

The cancellations include routes connecting the Middle East with destinations outside the region, as well as inbound flights from other parts of the world. Domestic and intra–Middle East services were not included in the analysis.

Cirium’s estimates are based on an average passenger load factor of 80 percent — a metric representing the proportion of occupied seats relative to total seat capacity. Airlines operating in the region typically deploy aircraft averaging about 242 seats per flight, although some larger aircraft, including Airbus A380s and Boeing 777s, can accommodate significantly more passengers.

The scale of the cancellations highlights the wider impact on global aviation. Industry data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA) shows that international passenger demand had been steadily rising prior to the disruptions. In January 2026, global international travel demand increased by 5.9 percent compared with the same month in 2025, while airline capacity grew by 5.8 percent year-on-year. During the same period, the average load factor reached 82.5 percent, a slight increase of 0.1 percentage points.

Airlines based in the Middle East experienced even stronger growth earlier in the year. Regional carriers reported a 7.2 percent year-on-year increase in passenger demand in January, alongside a 7.8 percent rise in capacity. The load factor for Middle Eastern airlines stood at 83.2 percent, representing a modest decline of 0.4 percentage points compared with the previous year.

Commenting on the situation, IATA Director-General Willie Walsh called for efforts to protect civilian aviation amid the ongoing conflict.

“We all hope for an early peaceful resolution to the current hostilities,” Walsh said. “In the meantime, states must respect their obligation to keep civilians and civil aviation free from harm.”

Jazeera Airways Opens Kuwait–Istanbul Route via Saudi Arabia’s Qaisumah Airport

Published: Tuesday, March 17, 2026
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Jazeera Airways has introduced a temporary travel route linking Kuwait and Istanbul through Qaisumah Airport in Hafar Al Batin, Saudi Arabia, as the airline works to maintain passenger connectivity following the suspension of operations at Kuwait International Airport for safety reasons.

The Kuwaiti low-cost carrier said it is currently the only airline from Kuwait facilitating travel through this alternative arrangement. The move is part of the airline’s efforts to ensure mobility for passengers amid the ongoing regional situation.

The first flight on the new route operated on March 15. Passengers departing from Kuwait were transported by bus to Qaisumah Airport, where they boarded the flight to Istanbul Airport. For the return journey, travelers flew from Istanbul to Qaisumah before continuing their trip to Kuwait by road.

Jazeera Airways said it is coordinating closely with aviation authorities and operational partners in both Kuwait and Saudi Arabia to ensure the safety and efficiency of the temporary travel arrangements.

“As a Kuwaiti national carrier, maintaining connectivity for Kuwait during this period is extremely important for us,” said Jazeera Airways Chief Executive Officer Barathan Pasupathi. “Following the launch of flights to Egypt and Jordan, we are pleased to extend our operations to Istanbul, allowing more passengers to travel to and from Kuwait despite the current operational situation.”

Pasupathi added that since March 11 the airline has transported more than 6,000 passengers under the adjusted operations. Flights to Colombo have also been introduced and are currently fully booked.

To meet strong travel demand, the airline plans to increase flight frequencies on existing routes while gradually adding new destinations, including cities in India and the United Arab Emirates.

Pasupathi also acknowledged the support of aviation authorities and operational partners. “We are grateful for the strong collaboration and support of the Kuwait Directorate General of Civil Aviation, Saudi Arabia’s General Authority of Civil Aviation, and our operational partners in establishing a safe and coordinated travel solution for passengers during this time,” he said.

Gulf Air Opens Dammam Routes to London, Mumbai and Bangkok

Published: Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Gulf Air Opens Dammam Routes to London, Mumbai and Bangkok
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Gulf Air has started accepting bookings for international flights departing from King Fahd International Airport in Dammam, Saudi Arabia, as the airline adjusts its operations during the ongoing closure of Bahrain’s airspace.

The carrier announced that passengers can now reserve seats on flights from Dammam to three major international destinations: London Heathrow Airport in the United Kingdom, Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport in Mumbai, India, and Suvarnabhumi Airport in Bangkok, Thailand. The flights are currently available for travel between March 15 and March 16 through Gulf Air’s website and mobile application, with additional travel dates expected to be announced soon.

Gulf Air said it will also facilitate transportation for passengers traveling between Bahrain and Dammam who hold confirmed flight bookings. The airline will assist eligible travelers with obtaining Saudi transit visas when required. However, passengers planning to enter Saudi Arabia must independently obtain a valid visa.

The airline further advised customers not to travel to departure airports without confirmed tickets. Flights operating to and from Bahrain International Airport remain temporarily suspended until Bahrain’s airspace reopens.