Dubai's craziest buildings

Inaugurated in 2018, this immense photo frame offers a breathtaking view of the emirate. The Dubai Frame is the work of Fernando Donis, a Dutch-Mexican architect who was chosen from 900 applicants to create a structure on the theme of 'the new face of Dubai'.

Rising to a height of 150 metres, several ultra-modern lifts reach the top of the frame in a matter of seconds, offering views of the skyline as well as the city's old quarters. Visitors begin by discovering an exhibition on the Dubai of fifty years ago, before climbing up to the observatory to see the Dubai of today. Once back downstairs, the tour ends with an exhibition on the Dubai of the future. A three-stage experience that moves between past, present and future.

Where to stay nearby?

In Dubai, private individuals rent flats in residences with hotel-style services. This 2-bedroom flat is located at the foot of the park and offers a breathtaking view of the Dubai Frame from the balcony. There is a sauna and 3 bathrooms in the flat. There is also a swimming pool and gym in the residence.

In 2008, the emirate inaugurated the world's tallest skyscraper. Reaching a height of 828 metres, the Burj Khalifa has become the symbol of Dubai around the world in just ten years. Located in the heart of the Downtown district, the building belongs to the Emaar group, one of Dubai's property giants.

The Burj Khalifa houses flats, a luxury hotel and offices. Of course, it is possible to climb to the top of the building to enjoy the most exceptional panorama in the country. It's best not to be afraid of heights, as the fifty lifts propel visitors up to the 124th floor in a matter of seconds.

Where to stay nearby?

Located in the Dubai Mall, the city's gigantic shopping centre, the Westminster Dubai hotel is one of the closest to the Burj Khalifa. Its studios and flats offer views of the world's tallest tower and its turquoise lake. The hotel also features a sauna, swimming pool and garden.

Known as Cayan Tower or Infinity Tower, it is one of the strangest buildings in Dubai. Inaugurated in 2013, this 306-metre-high tower is a real eye-catcher for tourists. This twisted skyscraper gives the impression that its 75 floors are spinning on themselves. Built at 1.2 degrees to each other, the Cayan Tower houses 500 luxury flats offering uninterrupted views of the Marina, a seafront district of Dubai.

The Marina is crossed by an artificial canal that winds between the buildings before emptying into the Persian Gulf. This impressive building is a must-see on any visit to the city, whether on foot or by traditional boat. You'll quickly feel small in front of this majestic building with its impressive optical effect.

Where to stay nearby?

You can stay at the Cayan Tower hotel, but this is a big budget if you're staying in Dubai for a week: you'll need to spend at least 400 euros for a minimum of two nights. For those on a smaller budget, you can stay just a stone's throw from this unusual building and enjoy the view every time you go out by staying at the Media One hotel. These 30 m² rooms offer panoramic views over Dubai and the Palm Jumeirah archipelago. With a bar, swimming pool, restaurant and two nightclubs, this hotel is sure to please party lovers. Expect to pay a minimum of €143 per night.

In this shopping complex, everything gives the impression of being in Egypt. But it's nothing of the sort. Decorated with pyramids, statues of pharaohs, sphynxes and columns characteristic of ancient Egypt, the Wafi Mall promises a return to the immediate past, but with dozens of restaurants, hundreds of shops, a luxury hotel, a souk, a mini golf course, a swimming pool and even a discotheque. Enough to keep you busy for a whole day in this holiday club-style resort. The décor is in stark contrast to that of the Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping centre just a few kilometres away.

Where to stay nearby?

The Novotel Bur Dubai Healthcare City is located close to the old city and not far from the Wafi Mall. It offers spacious, comfortable rooms, some of which are interconnected, ideal for families. A bar, swimming pool and restaurant are also available. An added bonus is the children's pool, supervised by a lifeguard. A minimum of €80 per night is required.

The Tower of Arabia' is one of the world's only seven-star hotels. The hotel that houses the Burj al-Arab is so exceptional that experts agree that it deserves more than five stars. Built by British architect Tom Wright in 1999, this skyscraper is built on an artificial island that gives it the appearance of rising out of the water at over 320 metres.

Its sail-shaped structure has been designed so that its shadow does not cover the beach. The excessiveness is even reflected in the price of the rooms. While the hotel has hundreds of diplomatic, presidential and royal suites, the 'cheapest' night costs a modest €1,200. It has two swimming pools and a spa with hammam, jacuzzi and saunas. There are several restaurants, bars and lounges where you can enjoy a drink or a cup of tea, and the SkyView bar offers a breathtaking view of Dubai. Guided tours of the Burj-al-Arab have recently been introduced.

Where to stay nearby?

A night at the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is very expensive, costing at least €1,000 a night. For those who can't afford it, we recommend the Park Regis Boutique Hotel Jumeirah. This 3-star hotel is located 1.3 km from the Burj Al Arab tower, and offers double or family rooms with exposed beams and a sitting area. From the jacuzzi you can see the famous sail-shaped tower. Expect to pay a minimum of €130 per night.