Dubai

Soaring 828 metres above Dubai and currently the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa represents a union of art, engineering and heritage. It's home to ample office space, private residences, the 160-room Armani Hotel and "At the Top" observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors. There are also more than 1,000 specially commissioned works of art throughout the building.

Enjoy incomparable views of one of Dubai’s most talked about landmarks at The View at The Palm. Located 240 metres high, the observation deck presents the stunning 360-degree panorama of Palm Jumeirah alongside the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf and the Dubai skyline in the distance. The View at The Palm is located on level 52 of The Palm Tower, which also houses a café, a creative exhibition, interactive aquarium-themed tunnels and a gift shop. To further elevate your sky-high sightseeing experience, step up to The Next Level — at 250 metres above ground, the private, barrier-free space is the island's highest vantage point.

If you're a fan of heights, then head 219.5 metres above ground with Sky Views Dubai. Visitors will be swept off their feet as they take in endless vistas of the city skyline and a bird's eye view of Downtown Dubai. Perched atop the Address Sky View hotel, this architectural marvel has three distinct offerings, providing unforgettable sightseeing escapades: the Observatory, the Glass Slide and the thrill-inducing Edge Walk.

Admire the city’s sparkling coastline from Dubai Harbour, a seafront district in Dubai Marina that boasts the most advanced cruise terminal and the largest marina in the region. With the ability to berth up to 700 luxury yachts and boats, the Dubai Harbour also features a 120,000-square-metre cruise facility with two terminals on a 910-metre long quay. The world-class maritime destination is already open for the public to explore, though new hotels, cafes, retail outlets and restaurants in the area will be opening in phases.

Discover one of the world's most visited destinations, The Dubai Mall. Located at the foot of Burj Khalifa, this shopping metropolis features more than 1,200 retail outlets, restaurants (some with views of the Dubai Fountain), an indoor aquarium, spas and even an ice rink. Fashionistas won't want to miss the fashion extension or the iconic Level Shoes, while kids will flock straight to Reel Cinemas, or Kidzania.

Want to pose with the stars on the red carpet? Madame Tussauds lets you do just that. Visit the famous waxwork museum, known for crafting lifelike replicas of high-profile figures and celebrities. Located at Bluewaters Dubai, it is the only Madame Tussauds in the region, allowing fans of all ages to explore seven themed rooms as they look for their favourite famous faces. You'll get to mingle with international stars and meet regional heavy-hitters too, including singer Balqees Fathi and Bollywood actor Shah Rukh Khan.

Discover old Dubai in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, where winding stone alleys and charismatic windtower architecture reflect life before skyscrapers. Follow the alleyways to hidden tea houses, art galleries and cultural installations that uncover Dubai's past. Afterwards, head toward the bustling abra station and take a ride across the creek. There you will find gold, spice, perfume and textile souks where you can bargain over excellent handicrafts and goods.

Gracing the city's postcards, the iconic Palm Jumeirah is an astounding feat of mankind in the form of a series of artificial archipelagos in the emerald waters of the Arabian Gulf. From above, it takes the form of a stylised palm tree. At ground level, it has some of the city's most popular beach clubs, celebrity chef restaurants and luxury hotels such as Atlantis, The Palm. The newest attractions here include The Pointe, a waterfront hub for dining and shopping experiences, and Palm West Beach. Head to The View at Palm Jumeirah, where a 240-metre-high observation deck presents the most impressive views.

For an experience that marries tradition and luxury, head to Madinat Jumeirah. Literally translated as 'City of Jumeirah', this complex is inspired by an ancient citadel complete with wind towers and water canals. It encloses luxury hotels, private enclaves built in the traditional style, the world-class Talise Spa, Souk Madinat, Madinat Theatre, and more than 40 restaurants and lounges. For a memorable meal, dine at Folly by Nick & Scott which overlooks the sea from wind towers. You can also explore the meandering waterways on a traditional wooden abra to better appreciate the serene setting and inspired architecture.

Witness water dance at the iconic Dubai Fountain, located at the base of the Burj Khalifa. One of the largest fountains in the world, the sound and light show shoots 83,000 litres of water as high as 150 metres in the air. Each brightly illuminated jet sways in time to music, producing what has become one of Dubai's most popular shows. Situated outside The Dubai Mall, make time to shop between evening water shows, which begin every 30 minutes. The show is free. However, to get the best view you can get on one of the boats cruising the fountain water, or book a spot on the footbridge.

For pure wow factor, visit the indoor ski slopes of Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates. The perfect antidote to a warm day, you can mix a spot of shopping with a skiing break. There are five runs of varying difficulty, along with a freestyle area for snowboarders and tobogganers. Families will love the snow caves and tube rides, while Avalanche Café is ideal for sipping hot chocolate in minus four degrees or watching the daily march of the penguins.