The tallest building in the world, the deepest diving pool, the largest mall, and one of the world's largest and most complete dinosaur skeletons. By the time you finish reading this article, you may be able to break new records in Dubai.
“It only takes one visit to understand why city tourism slogans are true in Dubai only,” says Antoinette Turner, a flight centre in South Africa. “It's a destination for everyone who can skydive, ski, shops and drink sundowners on the beach the same day.”
Ranked as the fourth-most visited global city after Bangkok, London and Paris, Dubai is gaining traction rapidly among South African travelers, according to the latest MasterCardglobal Destination Cities Index (GDCI).
The facts are supported by the latest hotel booking data from flight centres from January to March 2025. This led the United Arab Emirates (and major Dubai) to fourth place in South Africa, Thailand and Mauritius.
“On an eight-hour direct flight from Johannesburg (or 9.5 hours from Cape Town), this connected hub begs us to explore its endless attractions,” adds Turner. “South Africans have a good time and are creating new activities and entertainment options throughout the year that makes it difficult to resist.”
Ready to do it all in Dubai? Here are five reasons why radar should have:
Pure entertainment
One of the things that Dubai excels is its luxurious experiences, live events and world-class entertainment. An outstanding charm for visitors? Dubai Shopping Festival. It runs every year between December and January and features attractive discounts from global brands, with live shows, concerts and medleys of family entertainment.
Throughout the year, Dubai visitors can experience a variety of technical expositions (Gitex Global), drone show spectacles and choreographed water fountain performances. According to Turner, the most popular of these are hosted at Dubai's fountains in front of Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.
“This is the world's largest choreographed fountain system, and it's an attractive audience with breathtaking displays. The best part is that you can enjoy it completely freely!” Turner adds. “Dubai is positioned as a luxurious destination, but you can enjoy it without burning holes in your wallet.”
Dubai Brunch Culture
South Africa may have a beloved brie, but Dubai makes a bold statement in its luxurious brunch culture.
All these food events, commonly hosted at Vibey Beach Clubs, attract a wide mix of expatriates and travelers. “While you wiggle your toes in the sand, you can interact with people of all life and sample all kinds of dishes you can imagine,” adds Turner.
She further points out that while these brunches reflect the warmth and festive spirit familiar to South Africans, the vast range of options could be overwhelming. “It's worth consulting a travel expert about recommendations tailored to your tastes and budget for the ultimate experience.”
Old Dubai (Badubai) Day
Bull Dubai longs for a little more than flashy skyscrapers and bustling shopping malls, giving you a seductive glimpse into the soul of old Dubai.
“This historic district, quietly surrounded along Dubai Creek, reveals the humble beginnings of the city as a village of fishing and pearls,” explains Turner. “Wandering around winding alleyways, traditional souks and wind tower houses will change your perspective and add rich, cultural layers to your experience. Most visitors don't even know that it exists!”
Something for everyone
Dubai is a destination for all ages, but what sets it apart is the wealth of experience that visitors can join together.
“No one needs to sit on the sidelines,” Turner adds. “South Africans disappoint places like the Museum of Future, the Dubai Aquarium and the Underwater Zoo. Are you my personal favorite? Top Golf Dubai where grandparents can work with their grandchildren to track shots with microchip golf balls.”
Another outstanding attraction is Deep Dive Dubai, the deepest underwater facility in the world where beginners can safely try scuba diving in a controlled environment. For families seeking adventure, desert safari promises exhilarating with activities like dune bashing, camel rides and sandboarding.
With more than three-quarters of the city's foreigners, Turner emphasizes that South Africans can expect to explore an astounding variety of global cuisine. “Eating out is a highlight of any visit. Even the most unstable eaters can discover what they enjoy,” she adds.
Efficient exploration
If you are planning your first family holiday outside of South Africa, Dubai is a great option, especially for those traveling with children and seniors.
For those worried about the heat, Turner points out November to March (winter) is the best time to arrive, but there is extensive indoor air conditioning. “The city is impressive, efficient and reliable.
But to make the most of your holiday, she makes a final recommendation. Consult a travel expert with detailed knowledge of Dubai.
“If you have a carefully considered itinerary, it's easy to navigate and enjoy. It can be extremely overwhelming on the go all year round. A little guidance will help you experience this dynamic hub just at the right time.”
