Academic City Travel Guide
Tourist Guide
Visit Academic City
Popular places to visit
Dubai Mall
Take a trip to see the largest entertainment and shopping destination in the world.
Burj Khalifa
The world's tallest building is a phenomenal feat of engineering and home to luxurious apartments, offices and a top-class hotel.
The Walk
You can enjoy some retail therapy with a trip to The Walk, a popular shopping spot in Dubai. Stroll along the seaside in this family-friendly area or visit its top-notch restaurants.
Dubai Cruise Terminal
Explore the waterfront of Dubai Cruise Terminal and enjoy activities such as boating in Dubai. Wander the riverfront or discover the desert landscapes in this culturally rich area.
Mall of the Emirates
You can search for that perfect souvenir when you visit Mall of the Emirates, a favourite shopping spot in Dubai. Stroll along the beautiful beaches or discover the area's desert landscapes.
Burj Al Arab
Burj Al Arab is just one of the places to see in Dubai, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Discover the area's desert landscapes and shops.
Activities
90-Minute Speedboat Tour: Dubai Marina, Atlantis, The Palm & Burj Al Arab
Dubai Marina Yacht Tour with Optional Breakfast or BBQ
City Sightseeing Dubai Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Sunset and Night Tour
Dhow Cruise at Marina Dubai with Dinner and Live Entertainment
Our pick of the best Academic City Hotel Deals
Grand Millennium Business Bay
The cleanliness of this hotel is excellent, terrific and knowledgeable staff, and nice size rooms. The in-house breakfast at Sofia's is an excellent value. My only issue is that it is on the fringe of Business Bay, which makes it a bit far from the Dubai Mall and even the metro stop. We love to walk ...
Reviewed on 8 Feb 2026
Atlantis, The Palm
We had a lovely 2 night stay. The check-in was efficient and friendly, and we will received an upgrade to a stunning room with a view over the sea and palm. The hotel is energetic with lots going on. It’s great for kids, we did the water park and post chambers, which were great fun. Breakfast buffet ...
Reviewed on 8 Feb 2026
Radisson Blu Hotel Dubai Waterfront
Really Good
Reviewed on 14 Feb 2026
Sofitel Dubai The Palm Resort & Spa
It was simply the best! The staff was very attentive, I could not ask for a better hotel experience.
Reviewed on 9 Feb 2026
Ciel Dubai Marina, Vignette Collection by IHG
My husband and I had a very pleasant stay at Ciel Hotel Dubai. The overall experience was smooth, comfortable, and truly enjoyable. What stood out the most was the friendliness and professionalism of the staff. A special thank you to Ganesh, who was welcoming and attentive, as well as Witness, who ...
Reviewed on 9 Feb 2026
The First Collection Dubai Business Bay
Yes
Reviewed on 5 Feb 2026
Other neighbourhoods around Academic City
Jadaf
Spend some time visiting places like Dubai Creek while getting to know Jadaf, and be sure to check out the abundant dining options. You can hop aboard the metro at Creek Station or Al Jadaf Station to see more of the area.
Business Bay
If you're spending time in Business Bay, you might enjoy attractions like Dubai Water Canal and Godolphin's Al Quoz Stables. You might also enjoy the neighbourhood's ample dining options before hopping on the metro at Business Bay Station to see more of the city.
Downtown Dubai
Dubai Mall and KidZania are top sights in Downtown Dubai, and you should be sure to explore the popular shops. Hop aboard the metro at Dubai Trolley Station 1 Tram Station or Dubai Trolley Station 2 Tram Station to see more sights in the area.
Za'abeel
Well liked for its restaurants and theme parks, Za'abeel is worth a visit. Check out the variety of things to see and do like Dubai Frame and Dubai Water Canal, and jump on the metro at Max Fashion Station to get around the city.
DIFC
DIFC is popular for its popular shops. Explore top sights like Tabari Artspace and XVA Gallery, and you can get around town on the metro at Financial Centre Station.
Trade Center
Known for its fantastic nightlife and popular shops, there's plenty to explore in Trade Center. Check out top attractions like Museum of the Future and Boulevard at Emirates Towers, and jump on the metro at Emirates Towers Station or Financial Centre Station to see more of the city.
