Bubulander Travel Guide: Dubai

A Creative's Guide to Dubai

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Dubai is a city known for its luxury and futuristic skyline, but beneath the glitz, a thriving arts and cultural scene is flourishing full of children friendly content. We asked our favourite local family to tell us where to go and what to do alone or as a family in Dubai. Enjoy Myriam’s notes!

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The Art Scene

• Nestled in the industrial district of Al Quoz, Alserkal Avenue is an avant-garde cultural hub filled with contemporary art galleries, artist studios, and independent design spaces. It is home to some of the most renowned galleries in the UAE, such as Leila Heller Gallery and The Third Line.
• Located in Downtown Dubai, Foundry blends art, co-working spaces, and social gatherings under one roof. It regularly features contemporary exhibitions and offers an ideal setting for those looking to work, network, or simply be inspired by the creativity around them.
• For those who appreciate live performances, the Dubai Opera is a must-visit. This architectural marvel hosts a range of performances from ballet and opera to jazz concerts and Broadway musicals. The building itself, inspired by a traditional dhow, is an artwork in its own right.
• To experience the soul of Dubai, visit the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, where restored houses, small museums, and wind towers transport you to the city’s past. Walk through the Dubai Museum, explore the bustling Gold and Spice Souks, and enjoy an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek for an authentic cultural experience.
• A recent addition to Dubai’s cultural scene, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is a massive futuristic library with over a million books and interactive exhibitions. Shaped like an open book on a lectern, it’s a paradise for knowledge seekers and a stunning architectural landmark.

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The Family Scene

Kidzania

A mini city designed just for kids, where they can explore different careers and role-play real-world jobs in a fun, interactive environment!

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Located in Dubai Mall, this giant aquarium lets you explore underwater life with over 140 species, including sharks and rays, in a stunning glass tunnel.

Aquaventure Waterpark & Dolphin Bay

A thrilling waterpark at Atlantis The Palm with exciting slides, a lazy river, and the chance to swim with dolphins in the beautiful Dolphin Bay.

‍Kite Beach

A lively beach with golden sands, perfect for kite surfing, beach sports, and enjoying family-friendly cafes and food trucks along the shoreline.

Miracle Garden

A stunning garden filled with over 50 million flowers arranged in beautiful designs. It’s a colorful wonderland that’s perfect for a family day out.

Top Golf

An interactive golfing experience for all ages. Hit micro-chipped balls at targets and enjoy food, drinks, and fun games in a vibrant, social atmosphere.

Twiggy Family Beach Club

A laid-back beach club at the luxurious Park Hyatt, offering a relaxed, family-friendly vibe with dining, swimming, and beach fun for everyone.

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The Food Scene

Breakfast

Koncrete

📍 Location: Al Quoz
💡 Best for: A creative atmosphere and artisanal coffee

Koncrete is more than just a café—it’s a space where design, art, and coffee blend seamlessly. With its industrial-chic aesthetic, this café attracts artists, entrepreneurs, and remote workers looking for inspiration. 

☕ Must-try: Cold brew with a side of almond croissant

Brix

📍 Location: Jumeirah Fishing Harbour
💡 Best for: Specialty coffee and indulgent pastries

Tucked away in the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour, Brix is a sleek and minimalist café that prioritizes coffee craftsmanship. Here, coffee is treated as an art form.

☕ Must-try: Spanish latte paired with a dark chocolate tart

Onda

📍 Location: Wasl 51, Jumeirah
💡 Best for: A healthy and stylish breakfast

Onda brings a fresh, wholesome take on breakfast, offering a menu packed with nourishing ingredients. 

🥑 Must-try: Chia pudding with fresh berries and coconut

Arabian Tea House

📍 Location: Al Fahidi Historic District
💡 Best for: An authentic local breakfast in a heritage setting

For a breakfast experience steeped in tradition, Arabian Tea House is a must-visit. The menu features classic Emirati breakfast dishes like balaleet (sweet vermicelli with eggs) and chebab (Emirati pancakes with date syrup). Pair it with Karak tea for the full local experience.

🍵 Must-try: Emirati breakfast tray with Karak tea

Alica Bakery

📍 Location: Jumeirah
💡 Best for: Freshly baked goods and a homely ambiance

If you’re looking for a cozy, feel-good breakfast spot, Alica Bakery is the perfect pick.🥐 Must-try: Almond croissant with a cappuccino

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Lunch and Dinner

Kokoro

📍 Location: Various locations
💡 Best for: Affordable yet high-quality Japanese dishes

For those seeking an unpretentious and satisfying Japanese meal, Kokoro is a hidden gem. 

🍜 Must-try: Spicy miso ramen and salmon poke bowl

 3Fils

📍 Location: Jumeirah Fishing Harbour
💡 Best for: Innovative Asian-fusion dishes in a casual setting

Recognized as one of the best restaurants in the Middle East, 3Fils serves up an impressive menu of Japanese-inspired dishes with a creative twist. T

🍣 Must-try: Wagyu tataki and crispy eel sushi‍

Pierchic

📍 Location: Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah
💡 Best for: A romantic or special occasion lunch with stunning views

This upscale seafood restaurant offers unparalleled views of the Burj Al Arab and the Dubai coastline. 

🦞 Must-try: Seafood platter and lobster risotto

Koko Bay

📍 Location: West Beach, Palm Jumeirah
💡 Best for: A relaxed, beachside lunch with tropical vibes

🥗 Must-try: Truffle mushroom gyoza and crispy squid

Orfali Bros

📍 Location: Wasl 51, Jumeirah
💡 Best for: Modern Middle Eastern flavors with a twist

Founded by three talented brothers, Orfali Bros is a must-visit for those who love innovative Middle Eastern cuisine. 

🍽️ Must-try: Shish Barak a la Sgyoza (a Levantine dumpling dish with a Japanese twist) and the Umami Eclair

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Dubai Nights 

Ossiano 

📍 Location: Atlantis The Palm
💡 Best for: A once-in-a-lifetime fine dining experience

For an extraordinary dining experience, Ossiano is one of Dubai’s most iconic restaurants. tation.

🦞 Must-try: The signature caviar and langoustine dishes

 Time Out Market

📍 Location: Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai
💡 Best for: A casual yet vibrant dining experience with multiple options

If you love variety, Time Out Market Dubai is the perfect place to explore the city's best restaurants in one lively location. Overlooking the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain, this food hall brings together top chefs and culinary brands under one roof. 

🍽️ Must-try: MASTI’s Indian-inspired dishes & Pitfire’s artisan pizzas

Blind Tiger 

📍 Location: Jumeirah Al Naseem
💡 Best for: An intimate, sophisticated cocktail bar with live jazz

Tucked away in the luxurious Jumeirah Al Naseem, Blind Tiger is an elegant speakeasy known for its expertly crafted cocktails and smooth jazz music.

🍸 Must-try: Their signature negroni paired with a charcuterie board

Soul Kitchen

📍 Location: Wasl 51, Jumeirah
💡 Best for: A lively restaurant with fusion cuisine and live entertainment

If you love good food and live performances, Soul Kitchen is a must-visit.

🍽️ Must-try: Truffle hummus, grilled lamb chops, and their signature cocktails

Sonara Camp 

📍 Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
💡 Best for: A unique outdoor experience with gourmet dining & entertainment

For a dining experience like no other, escape the city and head to Sonara Camp, where you’ll enjoy a stunning desert sunset, live performances, and fine dining under the stars. 

🔥 Must-try: Slow-cooked lamb shoulder & traditional Arabic desserts

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