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Dubai observation decks
Dubai is known for its extravagant infrastructure—some of which are among the most impressive in the world! It’s a city that’s growing skyward, with new buildings popping up all the time.
To admire Dubai from above, check out the city’s iconic observation decks, which offer spectacular views. Marvel at Dubai’s glittering skyscrapers, futuristic artificial islands, and ever-changing cityscapes.
The feeling when you’re up there is truly incredible.
From the Burj Khalifa to Sky Views, each tower has its own unique features that make for rich and breathtaking experiences.
Find all the useful information you need to know about the various observation decks in Dubai: ticket prices, hours, addresses, and reviews.
The Most Beautiful Viewpoints in Dubai
Observation Decks in Dubai: The City’s Highlights
Dubai is the city of excess, where skyscrapers—each taller than the last—are constantly springing up. Most house luxury hotels and offices, but some feature observation decks where visitors can enjoy unique experiences hundreds of meters above the ground.
When to visit Dubai’s observation decks?
1
At sunset
One of the best times to visit an observation deck in Dubai is at the end of the day, at sunset. You’ll see the city’s iconic landmarks while admiring the golden hues of the sky. If you stay long enough, you’ll also be able to admire the city’s twinkling lights as night falls. The View at the Palm, the Burj Khalifa, and the Sky Views observatory are two of the observation decks where late afternoon is the best time to visit.
However, this is usually when there are the most visitors—so be prepared.
2
During the Day
On the other hand, visiting an observatory during the day is also a good idea. You’ll be able to get your bearings in the city better and see some of its landmarks. It’s during the day that you truly realize the city’s vastness, with the desert stretching into the distance. It’s also a chance to notice the differences between certain neighborhoods. For example, the Dubai Frame is best enjoyed during the day. It’s the best time to admire the contrast between Old and New Dubai. At night, this difference is much less noticeable because the neighborhoods of Deira and Bur Dubai are not well lit.
No matter which observation deck you choose or what time of day it is, getting a bird’s-eye view of Dubai will let you admire the city from a whole new perspective.
Our comparison chart of the different observation decks
| Burj Khalifa | The View at the Palm | Sky Views | Dubai Frame | Ain Dubai | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| View | – Burj Khalifa Lake – Downtown Dubai – Dubai Mall | – Palm Jumeirah – Atlantis Hotel – Dubai Marina | – Burj Khalifa – Downtown Dubai | – Old Dubai: Deira, Bur Dubai – Downtown Dubai – Burj Khalifa | – Dubai Marina – Palm Jumeirah |
| Features | – 2 observation decks (124th/125th and 148th floors) – Restaurant and bar on the 152nd, 153rd, and 154th floors – Outdoor terrace – Interactive indoor activities | – 2 observation decks (52nd and 54th floors) – 360° observation deck – Outdoor terrace without glass or railings | – 2 observation decks (52nd and 53rd floors) – Glass floor to walk across – Glass slide to go down – Edge Walk: a thrilling activity where you can walk along the outer edge of the observation deck | – Exhibits on the history and development of Dubai – Platform dividing the city: Old Dubai to the north / modern neighborhoods to the south | – The world’s tallest Ferris wheel |
| Prices | starting at 42€ | starting at 17.60€ | 20.15€ | 12.70€ | starting at 31€ |
| Reservations | Book | Book | Book | Book | Book |
Our tip: Choose a tourist pass to save money!
We recommend that you visit at least two observation decks in Dubai because each visit is unique and offers a completely different perspective on the City of Gold.
To save on admission tickets, buy a tourist pass that includes access to all of the city’s observation decks, such as the Go Explorer Dubai. You’ll enjoy significant discounts on all your visits.
Help and Frequently Asked Questions
The Burj Khalifa is the tallest tower in Dubai and the world, standing at 828 meters.