The best luxury experiences in Dubai

Soar above the rolling sand dunes and delight in the magical sunsets with a once-in-a-lifetime hot air balloon experience. Catch a glimpse of the grazing camels and frolicking gazelles below as you elegantly drift above the stunning sand hills.

Enjoy an intimate private session for two or admire the landscape in a small group, which often includes a gourmet breakfast upon landing and plenty of photo opportunities - including the chance for a selfie with a falcon! Boasting panoramic views like you’ve never seen before, you can admire the shelving desert sands from 4,000 feet up.

The Hajar Mountains display the coy sun as she dances over the delicate dunes, breathing life over the still surroundings, whilst the city’s iconic skyscrapers become little shimmering specs as you rise higher into the sky.

It’s hard to vocalise just how magical this experience is, it’s a must during your holidays to Dubai - particularly if you're looking for places to propose. You really will be floating on cloud nine…

Known for flash, well everything, it’s no surprise that luxury car rental in Dubai is one of the city’s most popular experiences. There are multiple luxury car experiences to be had for the thrill seekers and motorheads among us, so you can tour this spectacular city in style.

Dubai’s streets stand out for their never-ending parade of opulent vehicles, with flash rides such as Lamborghinis, Maseratis, Porsches, Rolls-Royces and sleek Bentleys littering the city.

Why not rent one of these fast toys for a day or two during your stay? Make heads turn as you weave through the streets and play out your flash car fantasy with one of Dubai’s many luxury car rental companies. With millions to choose from, you’ll be spoiled for choice.

The Burj Al Arab truly epitomises the sense of luxury in Dubai. Crowned as the world’s tallest skyscraper, it’s already got quite the reputation, but extravagant by nature - it doesn’t end there.

The building’s unique sail shape is home to the world's only seven-star hotel and a handful of exquisite world-renowned eateries. Dubai’s Armani Hotel suites also sit at the top of this structure, its unparalleled views make for some striking photographs.

Dine in one of the most elite restaurants in the world at Al Mahara, the Burj Al Arab’s premium seafood restaurant, where you can enjoy seven-star dining underneath spectacular Michelin-starred chefs.

Or, head to the Skyview Bar on the 27^th floor and experience a whole new meaning of high tea. With so many fabulous restaurants to choose from, the Burj al Arab is a must visit for foodies.

If you really want to push the boat out, why not book a room in this iconic skyscraper’s opulent hotel. Resplendent in design with Arabian furnishings, marble floors and gold detailing, the hotel boasts personal butlers, a private library, and an extensive pillow menu to ensure the best night’s sleep is had.

Arrive by helicopter at the building's very own landing pad and enter the hotel accompanied by your own personal butler and concierge team.

For a truly once on a lifetime experience, be sure to visit the Burj Al Arab.

Looking for the best deals in the city? Check out our top Dubai offers.

Nothing quite exudes extravagance like a luxury yacht cruise. Dubai is no stranger to opulence and boasting multiple opportunities to rent a luxury yacht is very on brand for this sparkling city.

Begin your journey in the Dubai Marina and sail along the beautiful waterways, making your way around iconic sights such as Atlantis The Palm and the famous archipelago.

By choosing your preferred departure time, you can be sure to get the most out of your experience. Relax on the sun deck and delight in a spot of swimming, snorkelling, or fishing once the anchor is dropped.

Be sure to ask your team to take you to the most exclusive scuba diving spots the wonderful waters have to offer, too. You can even take classes and get your PADI certification whilst you’re there.

Champagne? Say no more, you’ll be pampered by a personal concierge team on hand to provide delectable meals, snacks, and drinks. Pair your excursion with background music to create the perfect ambience.

By chartering a luxury yacht from Dubai’s Marina, you’ll be sure to enjoy the most luxury, relaxing experience of your life.

To admire the striking picture that is Dubai from its most impressive angle, be sure to book a helicopter ride over the city. Marvel at futuristic skyscrapers as they fade away below you, awe at seemingly never-ending vast stretches of desert dunes and see the iconic footprint of the city’s man-made islands from a magnificent bird's eye view.

Possibly the most thrilling way to experience a glimpse of Dubai, a helicopter ride ensures you tick off many the city’s iconic landmarks (such as Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa and the Palm Jumeirah) in a way you’ve never seen them before.

Listen to the pilot’s fascinating narration as you capture striking shots of the city to share with friends.

To get the most out of your luxury helicopter tour, be sure to choose a combined experience; enjoy an evening at a Bedouin inspired desert camp where you can experience other activities such as camel riding, 4x4 desert safaris and belly dancing, all before a barbecue dinner under the stars.

Have you always dreamed about devouring 24-carat gold ice cream? Of course you have. And only in Dubai will you find a place that offers such a luxury experience.

With several shavings of pure 24-carat gold being the key ingredient of their delectable dessert, Jumeirah Beach Road’s Scoopi Café boasts the most expensive ice cream sundae in the world (AED 2,999)!

The absurdly grandiose black diamond ice cream boasts a harmonious blend of Madagascan vanilla with threads of Iranian saffron and slices of deluxe Italian black truffle, garnished with (you guessed it) edible gold leaf and all served up in a Versace dish. Now if that isn’t the epitome of luxury, we don’t know what is.

There's no end to the glitz and glamour of this world-famous city, so you're sure to find a whole host of luxurious places to visit during your stay.

The Dubai Mall is a popular place to go, a city-sized venue with thousands of shops, restaurants, bars, the world's largest indoor aquarium and beyond, or perhaps you want to admire the city's famous dancing fountains?

Foodies can head to Ossiano at Atlantis The Palm, while those seeking R&R should pay a visit to The Talise Spa at Madinat Jumeirah and the Burj Al Arab.

Absolutely, many presume this metropolis is a couples only destination but there is so much for children to see and do in this spectacular city.

Many of the resorts have excellent kids' facilities including fantastic kids clubs, swimming pools, and daily activities to get involved in - while the city itself is well-versed for little ones to explore.

Dubai is renowned for it's five-star (and beyond) resorts, so those wanting to splurge on a spectacular hotel suite are sure to find what they're looking for.

A few of the most prestigious places to stay include Bulgari Resort, Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah, Atlantis The Palm, Burj Al Arab and beyond - why not take a look at our list of the most expensive hotels in Dubai?