The city of Dubai is famous for its towering skyscrapers and luxurious shopping malls. From the iconic Burj Khalifa to the breathtaking man-made islands such as Palm Jumeirah, visiting this thriving metropolis as a student can help witness the marvels of modern architecture and ultimately indulge in world-class facilities. Apart from the obvious glitz and glamour, Dubai also boasts a rich cultural heritage while also being a hub for innovation and education.
Dubai’s vast barren landscapes can also be a great way to experience different land-based fun activities, such as desert safaris and camel riding. And to make traveling easier for students, accommodation options are available in plenty throughout the city – from budget-end to upscale variants. If you are a student who is traveling to Dubai for the first time and want to learn more about the best possible attractions that you can explore, then our compact guide can be a headstart for your journey.
1) The Jumeirah Mosque
Being one of the prominent landmarks in Dubai, the Jumeirah Mosque is well known for its architectural beauty as well as its significance as a religious place. Touted to be one of the few mosques in the United Arab Emirates that allow the entry of visitors of all faiths, the place also offers guided tours that help promote the cultural appreciation and understanding of the monument among the common masses.
What is most surprising about the Jumeirah Mosque is its architectural design and interior features. Adorned with geometric designs and intricate carvings on the exterior showcasing the artistry and craftsmanship of Islamic architecture, the mosque also flaunts its spacious interiors with intricate calligraphy and a magnificent chandelier. And the site can house more than 1,200 worshipers at any given moment.
Since the Jumeirah Mosque is a place of worship, entry is free of cost for everyone out there, including students. However, be sure to dress modestly, covering your knees and shoulders, with women additionally required to cover their heads with a scarf.
2) The Coffee Museum
As a student, if you are a coffee enthusiast, then taking a round trip to the Coffee Museum in Dubai can be a great way to unwind yourself. Situated within the bounds of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, the museum offers a perfect insight into the rich history and the worldwide significance of coffee. The place is packed with artifacts that include traditional coffee brewing vessels, antique coffee grinders, and unique coffee beans imported from various parts of the globe.
In addition to the aforementioned, students can also get an insight into the origins of coffee and how coffee cultivation spread from Ethiopia and Arabia, to the rest of the world. The place features science-backed facts regarding coffee and its positive effects on the human body. Once you are done exploring the museum since entry is free of cost (regardless of your age or stature), you can conclude your trip with a cup of coffee from the Brew Bar of Dubai Coffee Museum at just under 10 AED.
3) The Kite Beach
Showcasing the vibrant Dubai coastline, the Kite Beach is a safe haven for students who love adventures. Being popular among kite surfers (hence the name), the place offers far more than just a beach to sunbathe. From adrenaline-pumping watersports such as kite-surfing or wind-surfing to relaxing paddleboarding, the place is a perfect playground for students who want to have a bit of fun without having to pay through their noses.
Entry to Kite Beach is free of cost for everyone and students who want to indulge in adventurous activities can take help from the numerous rental shops and experienced instructors available there. Additionally, you can go on a jogging trip along the beach, perform yoga sessions in harmony, or just enjoy a simple workout in harmony. There is also a dedicated area for child students to freely play with swings, slides, and different climbing structures. And when you are hungry, you can take a bite from the numerous food trucks and casual cafes established there.
4) The Dubai Mall
When it comes to total land area, the Dubai Mall is by far the world’s largest shopping mall – sitting adjacent to the iconic Burj Khalifa and is a part of the $20 billion Downtown Dubai complex. Apart from being a paradise for shopping aficionados, the mall also houses the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is home to more than 33,000 aquatic animals, the Dubai Ice Rink which is an Olympic-sized ice rink, the VR (Virtual Reality) Park, and the Dubai Fountain.
Each year more than 100 people visit the Dubai Mall, making the place a one-stop-shop for dining, shopping, and entertainment. Entry to the Dubai Mall is free, irrespective of the visitor’s age, and students can enjoy its various attractions seamlessly.
5) The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
An hidden gem in Dubai, the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is just a short drive from the Dubai city center. The place is a safe haven for migratory birds and reports suggest that more than 450 different species of birds arrive here every year. From spoonbills to egrets to flamingos to herons – the best time to see these birds would be from October to April – as they will be in a breeding rampage.
The site is also home to other wildlife creatures such as lizards, foxes, Arabian oryx, and snakes, along with multiple types of fish such as mullet and catfish. Students can view the wildlife creatures from numerous hides and viewing platforms established throughout the sanctuary, without disturbing them. Additionally, there are walking trails and boardwalks to help you explore the place at your own pace.
There is no entry fee to visit the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. However, students are advised to wear comfortable shoes and clothing and may carry binoculars to enhance their viewing experience.
