The Most Iconic Architectural Buildings in Dubai and How to Get There

Dubai is a city of many wonders. Whether it is art, food, shopping, or luxurious stays, the city offers something unique in each department. One cannot, however, talk about Dubai without mentioning the incredible architecture and design of the city. Dubai is home to the most fascinating architectural landmarks and skyscrapers the world has ever seen. 

From tall buildings to the world’s largest shopping mall, its diverse range of architectural wonders is a blessing to every visitor. If you’re planning to visit Dubai, here is a selection of the top 5 architectural works you simply can’t miss. 

1. Burj Khalifa

Standing at 2,722 feet tall, the Burj Khalifa is a 160-story building that is popular for its magnificence and jaw-dropping views. It enjoys the pride of being the tallest building in the world. This skyscraper houses the world’s highest mosque, the highest swimming pool, and an outdoor observation deck called ‘On Top of the World’. The building’s silhouette is inspired by Islamic architecture and indigenous desert flowers. A mix of old-world shapes with new-age construction technology adds to its unique charm.

2. Burj al Arab

The majestic 7-star hotel that comprises 202 luxury suites, a Skyview bar, and an underwater restaurant is hard to miss. Located on a human-made island, this hotel is recorded to be the most photographed building in the world. Known for its lavish layout, this iconic hotel is also called the Tower of the Arabs. Its interesting architectural elements such as a honeycomb-structured foundation and a high-tech building that resembles the sail of a ‘dhow’ (or yacht) make it a must-visit landmark for tourists. 

The Burj Al Arab: One of the most famous architectural landmarks of Dubai

3. Cayan Tower

The Cayan Tower is an eye-catching residential building with a height of 306 meters. This massive tower has 75 stories with apartments that enjoy ample solar shading. In architectural terms, this tower is the world’s tallest highrise with a twist of 90 degrees in its structure. This unique design- initially intended to make the building resistant to extreme climatic and seismic events- has quickly turned into a tourist’s delight. 

4. Atlantis, The Palm

The Atlantis is an extravagant ocean-themed resort that stands at the apex of Jumeirah beach. The Underwater Suites are the main attraction of Atlantis, the Palm. You can also engage in sightseeing on the Arabian gulf or visit the city’s largest aquarium. There are numerous options for adventure activities such as scuba diving, a Helicopter tour of Atlantis, and an entire 141-acre waterscape- Aquaventure waterpark.

5. The World Islands

The World Islands is an artificial archipelago that was created from dredged and reclaimed sand. Situated 4km off the coast of Dubai, this group of 300 man-made islands is made to mimic the shape of the world map. The World Islands serve as an eye-catching delight when viewed from space or the highest observation point on the Burj Khalifa. These islands host a range of top-class hotels and restaurants that will give you a taste of modern luxury mixed with culture.

How to Navigate Dubai?

Now that you know about some of the greatest architectural surprises that await your visit to Dubai, it’s time to think about how you’ll get to these hotspots. The default choice for tourists is to go for public transport services such as the metro or a taxi. However, we are all aware of the hassle, delay, and confusion that come with this option.

A better choice would be to get a private vehicle that you can control. No, we are not suggesting you invest in buying your own car! Instead, you can just rent a car online! Apps such as ekar allow you to get flexible car rentals that are suited to your needs and timelines.

Whether you travel solo or with a group of friends or family, with on-demand access to hundreds of cars you can always find one that works for you. Along with the convenience, flexible and affordable pricing structures will make sure you don’t burn a hole in your pocket while moving around the city. Go ahead and find your perfect travel companion on the ekar app to make navigation flexible, cheap, and hassle-free!