With the recent UAE Cabinet decision to exempt children under 18 years of age from paying visa fee from July 15 to September 15 of each year, the country’s popularity as a go-to haven for shopping and holiday break of choice for Filipinos is expected to see a huge spike.
TFT presents the top UAE tourist spots that Pinoys want to check off their bucket list soon.
1. See the top of the world at Burj Khalifa
Standing at the top of Burj Khalifa is like standing at the top of the world. Hailed as the tallest building and structure in the world, the skyscraper stip tops the list of landmarks that Pinoys want visit. Most wanderlust travelers dream of taking some snaps atop the building, overlooking the emirate of Dubai from the 124th and 148th floors. By paying a separate entrance fee, one can also experience Etihad Museum, Dubai Fountain Boardwalk, and Dubai Fountain Lake Ride, among others.
When: Open 7 days a week, 8:30 am-10:00 pm (Last entry 45 minutes prior to closing)
Where: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Dubai
Tickets: Dh370 for Levels 124, 125 & 148; Dh135 for Levels 124 & 125
Contact: +971 4 888 8124
2. Pose in front of the Burj Al Arab
One of the most popular backdrops in tourists photos, the sailboat-shaped Burj Al Arab ranks 2nd in the list. It’s one of the tallest and the only 7-star hotel in Dubai. It stands on an artificial island connected to the mainland of the Jumeirah Beach.
Entry to the hotel may come at a hefty price but an afternoon at the Jumeirah Beach is enough to appreciate the exterior of the hotel. Families can set-up beach umbrellas, and bask in the sun while posing with the Burj Al Arab in the background.
When: 24 hours open
Where: Jumeirah Street, Dubai
Tickets: Dh5,000-Dh6,800 (approx) per night depending on the room
Contact: +971 4 3017777
3. Immerse in art at the Louvre Abu Dhabi
For budding Picassos, a walk through The Louvre is worth the trip. Leonardo da Vinci’s “Salvator Mundi” will be soon be seated on the renowned museum. The 500-year-old painting is also considered to be the most expensive painting in the world worth $450 million.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi is the product of France and the UAE’s decision to establish a new cultural institution in 2007. The said museum magnificently combines the vision of the UAE for cultural progression and the expert artistic eye of France. No wonder why this new structure attracts more Pinoy tourists these days.
When: 10am-8pm from Sat-Wed, and 10am-10pm from Thurs and Fri
Where: Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi
Tickets: Dh60
Contact: +971 600 565566, www.louvreabudhabi.ae/en/contact-us
4. Ride the fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World
Named as “Middle East’s Leading Tourist Attraction” in 2015 and 2016 and “Middle East’s Leading Theme Park” in 2017 and 2018, Ferrari World attracts Pinoys to get the thrill of riding Formula Rossa, the fastest roller coaster in the world. It accelerates at 240km/hr in as short as five seconds.
Inside the park, there are also child-friendly attractions and rides such as Tyre Twist, an F1-inspired spinning tyre, and Speed of Magic, a 4D world where children could join Ferrari driver Nello in his adventures. Children could also engage in a flight simulator ride called Viaggio in Italia where they could experience flying over mountains, villages, and vineyards in Italy.
When: Every day from 11:00am – 8:00pm
Where: Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Tickets: Dh295 for one day Unlimited all day access to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.
Contact: +971 2 496 8000
5. Panoramic view at the Dubai Frame
Stretching an impressive 150-meter in height and 93-meter in width, this structure that resembles like a photo frame showcases the modern and old side of Dubai. It’s a relatively new landmark, but a lot of Pinoys are hearing the news about its magnificence. Inside, tourist can walk on glass floors with a bird’s eye view of the entire emirate of Dubai.
When: Open year-round
Where: Dubai’s Zabeel Park near Jafiliya Station
Ticket: Dh50
Contact: 800900, www.dubaiframe.ae
6. Experience the zones of IMG Worlds of Adventure
The world’s largest indoor amusement park makes it to the list as well! It’s an considered as the first mega-themed entertainment park in Dubai. A definite paradise for children, the park is divided into five “zones” – Cartoon Network, Marvel, IMG Boulevard, Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure, and Novo Cinema.
Rides draw inspirations from Marvel movies and Cartoon Network shows. Tourists may interact with dinosaurs in Forbidden Territory and Predator. Families can also watch movies and shop toys and souvenirs. Restaurants are also open inside the park.
When: 11am-10pm from Sun-Wed; 11am-11pm from Thurs-Sat
Where: E311 Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Road, near Arabian Ranches, Dubai
Tickets: Dh257 (Park admission ticket only)
Contact: +971 4 403 8888
7. Spoil your inner kid at Legoland
Legoland is a perfect destination for families with children. The theme park has a lot to offer from lego-themed rides, 4D cinemas to puppet shows. Ride the Dragon Coaster and watch how legos are made at the factory. Don’t miss the Miniland, where Dubai’s skyline and other world structures are recreated using legos.
When: Open year-round, from 12:00 noon-8:00 pm
Where: Sheikh Zayed Road, opposite Palm Jebel Ali, Dubai
Ticket: Dh260
Contact: www.legoland.com/dubai
8. Explore a different heritage in the Global Village
If you dream of seeing the world but do not want to wait and save up money, then you don’t need to go far. Global Village, the top family leisure and cultural attraction in Dubai, will immerse you in international heritage and multicultural experience through attractions, entertainment, stalls, rides, and restaurants inspired by different countries in the world.
When: Season 23 starts in October 2018
Where: Exit 37, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road, Dubai
Tickets: Dh15 (approx) while the family pack costs Dh99 inclusive of 4 entry tickets, 1 valet parking ticket, 1 Carnival Funfair card worth Dh75, and 2 mini train tickets
Contact: 04 3624114
9. Ride an Abra in the Dubai Creek
Abras in Dubai are the most traditional mode of transportation for centuries in the UAE, making it an iconic symbol in its history. By taking a cruise for as low as Dh1, tourists can enjoy the magnificent view of the city along the creek. The boat ride will last for about 5 to 7 minutes.
When: Route 1 operates from 5am to midnight, while Route 2 operates for 24 hrs.
Where: There are two stations on the Deira side and two other stations on the southern Bur Dubai side
Tickets: Dh1
Contact: www.rta.ae/links/marine/en/dubai-abra.html
10. Interact with friendly paws at the Dubai Safari
For animal and nature lovers, Dubai Safari is truly a must-see attraction to visit. The safari is maintaining a high standard of animal welfare, nutrition and ethical conduct. Recognized as one of the top zoos in the world, it is the sanctuary of more than 2,500 animals across a land area of 119 hectares.
When: October 2018
Where: Al Warqa 5 in Aweer Road, Dubai
Tickets: Dh20 for kids; Dh50 for adults
Contact: www.dubaisafari.ae/en/contact-us
11. Watch the dancing fountains at the Dubai Mall
Home to the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, this mall revolutionized shopping experience for residents and tourists alike. Among the sights are the VR Park, Fashion Avenue and the Dubai Fountain. Recently adding Kpop band EXO’s songs to their playlist, the fountain show at the Burj Khalifa Lake never fails to awe mall-goers with its waterworks synchronized with music and lights.
When: Open year-round
Where: Financial Center Road, Dubai
Ticket: Entrance to the mall is free
Contact: +971 4 362 7500, [email protected]
By Robert Andrei Cimbracruz & Niña Angelica Venus
