We Lived like Kings for a Day at Al Habtoor City in Dubai
Ever had a super-rich friend? I’ve got one! Born with a silver spoon, he’s been spoiled from day one. This bloke had everything—fancy toys, clothes, cars, gadgets—a true lucky fellow.
I wonder how I, a regular working guy, became friends with this crazy rich dude. But despite his envy-inducing lifestyle, he’s always been generous, so I can’t really hate him. Sometimes, he even takes me along on his luxurious trips!
Once, he took me to Al Habtoor City in Dubai and covered all expenses. And I kid you not, we both lived like royalty! I loved it so much that I saved up and went again with my family. I’ve even put together this travel guide from my amazing trip. Check it out below!
What is Al Habtoor City known for?
Al Habtoor City is known for being a luxurious condominium complex in Dubai. It features 5-star hotels, restaurants, lounges, residential towers, and more fancy spots overlooking the iconic Burj Khalifa.
Best Time to Go
The best time to go to Al Habtoor City is from November to March, with milder temperatures ranging from 17°C to 30°C (62.6°F to 86°F). This is when it’s easier to see various attractions, outdoor activities, festivals, and other fun events here.
How to Get Around
Trains: The metro is the most popular transportation to Al Habtoor City. Some of the nearest stations are Business Bay Metro Station, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Mall Metro Station.
Buses: The bus lines that stop near Al Habtoor City are 29, 98E, 7, F20, F14, 29, and 21.
Taxis: Taxis are accessible all around the city, so I think you can easily hail one to give you a hassle-free, direct ride to Al Habtoor City.
Car: If you prefer to drive, no worries! During good traffic conditions, your journey can be pretty straightforward.
What to Do around Al Habtoor City
Dance All Night at Ora Club Dubai
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Website: https://oraclubdubai.com/
Address: Hilton Dubai, Al Habtoor City – Floor 44 – Sheikh Zayed Rd
Contact Details: +971 54 455 5115, [email protected]
Want to paint the town red? Ora Club Dubai is where you can have a chic nightlife experience! This nightclub is filled with music, entertainment, and craft cocktails, as well as strong security with 30 bodyguards and a dog.
You can dance the night away with live DJs, dance performances, and even traditional music from around the region. Besides the Arabic Party that occurs 6 days a week, I say check out the Sunday English Party too for a different experience.
See La Perle’s Dynamic Shows
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Website: https://www.laperle.com/
Address: Al Habtoor City – 260 Sheikh Zayed Rd
Contact Details: +971 4 437 0001, [email protected], [email protected]
La Perle is a performing arts theater where you can embrace your love for the arts and culture. We’re in awe that the performers combine fascinating choreography with daring stunts that involve aerial acrobatics, motorcycle tricks, and so on.
I also like the amazing use of technology to transform the stage into multiple environments you can’t have indoors. For example, you’ll see waterfalls and rainfloods all over the stage to make the productions come alive.
Take the Kids to Kidzania
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Website: https://dubai.kidzania.com/
Address: The Dubai Mall, Second level. Cinema Parking – Financial Center Rd
Contact Details: +971 4 448 5222, [email protected]
The adults can have fun, while the kids can also have a blast at Kidzania. There are over 80 activities here and more than 60 city establishments the kiddos can try. They can pretend to be career-driven adults for a day in a totally safe playing environment.
Your children can be police officers, firemen, doctors, beauticians, and the like. Later, they can also spend their earned money (known as Kidzos) and treat themselves to retail therapy, spa days, or shops there—like a real adult on a day off!
Watch Ballet at Dubai Opera
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Website: https://www.dubaiopera.com/en-US/home
Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai
Contact Details: +971 4 440 8888, [email protected]
Should you want to see some ballet or classical music concerts, Dubai Opera is the most well-known venue in the city for that. I find it incredible that this traditional theater can turn into a concert hall or a seatless flat floor, depending on the show.
The lobby here also has a magnificent background where you can see the views of the iconic Burj Khalifa. The theater is next to the Dubai Fountain as well, so I bet there are many fantastic photos to snap here after watching a great performance.
Get Some “Me Time” at the Elixir Spa & Health Club
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Website: https://ukrainespa.ae/
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Business Bay
Contact Details: +971 52 260 4981, [email protected]
Elixir Spa & Health Club is a serene place for the ultimate relaxation, especially for luxury massage aficionados. You can get anything from a deep tissue massage to a hot stone massage, whichever you need to rejuvenate that day.
I like that there are many daily deals here to look forward to, like Men’s Day, Ladies’ Day, 60 going on 90, and Facial Day. All sorts of nail services are also available if you need a nice mani-pedi to go with your self-care day.
Where to Eat near Al Habtoor City
Babiole
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Website: http://www.babioledubai.com/
Address: Hilton Dubai, Al Habtoor City – 44 Sheikh Zayed Rd
Contact Details: +971 56 515 4665, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Babiole is a restaurant near Al Habtoor City where you can enjoy tasty Greek-Mediterranean dishes from midday until late at night. You can also expect some vibey tunes from the DJ to keep things lively throughout your dining experience.
Here, I love the truffle pizza and Kobe beef. But if you’re into seafood, I recommend fresh oysters, grilled seabass, and glazed black cod. As for dessert, I think the strawberry cheesecake is a must-try for sweets enthusiasts.
The Market
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Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/dxbahhi-hilton-dubai-al-habtoor-city/dining/the-market/
Address: Al Habtoor City, Sheikh Zayed Road
Contact Details: +971 4 435 5577, dining@hiltonalhabtoorcity.com
Pricing: $
If you’re unsure what you’re craving, The Market provides a diverse menu that can cater to many preferences. Here, you can indulge in an international dinner buffet, an Arabic live grill, Indian chaat (roadside snacks), and Asian soups.
I also love the ice cream station. There’s chocolate, vanilla, and hazelnut, as well as combo flavors like raspberry and strawberry and lemon and lime. It’s also great for me that there’s a decent selection of mini cakes, so it’s not too overwhelming to try them all.
Ribs & Brews
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Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/dxbahhi-hilton-dubai-al-habtoor-city/dining/ribs-brews/
Address: Al Habtoor City – Sheikh Zayed Rd
Contact Details: +971 4 435 5577, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Ribs & Brews is a sports and grill bar where you can mingle with like-minded folks who like great food, draught beers, and camaraderie. There are share plates, live music, and big sports games to see here, which I reckon makes up for a memorable night out.
For the big eaters, I suggest going for the buffalo chicken wings and Wagyu beef burger. But don’t fret! This pub also caters to vegetarians and vegans, so everyone can have a good time. There are a few desserts here too, but I say try the apple pie first!
V Lounge
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Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/dxbvhqq-v-hotel-dubai/dining/
Address: Al Habtoor City – Sheikh Zayed Rd
Contact Details: +971 4 435 5577, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
V Lounge is a spacious place near Al Habtoor City to hang out and toast craft cocktails with friends. Located 7 floors above Sheik Zayed Road, I believe this spot offers a nice, elevated position to see the beautiful city skyline.
As you’re chatting with friends, I think you’ll love the burgers, wasabi prawns, and buffalo chicken sliders. During Ladies’ Night, I like that guests can order unlimited sushi too!
Il Pastaio Dubai
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Website: https://www.ilpastaiodubai.ae/
Address: Al Habtoor City Boulevard – Sheikh Zayed Rd
Contact Details: +971 4 379 1382, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Il Pastaio Dubai is one of Los Angeles’ most popular Italian restaurants. The decor reminds me of its Sicilian origins, so I think you can really immerse yourself in the European setting.
I recommend trying out the Spaghetti Al Caviale (pasta with caviar) and Paccheri Alla Justin Bieber (made as this singer’s favorite). There are also many yummy desserts to try out, like cheesecake, tiramisu, and the crowd favorite—chocolate cake!
Where to Shop around Al Habtoor City
Mall of the Emirates
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Website: https://www.malloftheemirates.com/en
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Barsha – Al Barsha 1
Contact Details: +971 800 6636255, [email protected]
The Mall of the Emirates is a huge shopping mall with global department stores, a ski centre, and a multi-screen cinema, so I reckon this is an amazing family spot!
This features over 630 mid to high-end brands to choose from. It also offers sports, electronics, home furnishing, and the largest Carrefour (supermarket) in the city! And don’t forget the small liquor shop in the parking lot for your happy hour at home.
Dubai Marina Mall
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Website: http://www.dubaimarinamall.com/
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai Marina
Contact Details: +971 4 436 1020, [email protected]
Dubai Marina Mall is one of the main shopping malls in the city. Since it’s close to Dubai Marina, I believe dining al fresco here would give you stunning water and yacht views at night!
Besides the dining and shopping experiences, you can also look forward to many art exhibitions, live music performances, and seasonal celebrations here. Outside the mall, there are several cafes in the marina where you can sit and enjoy the night more.
Dubai Festival City Mall
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Website: https://www.dubaifestivalcitymall.com/home/
Address: Crescent Rd – Dubai Festival City
Contact Details: +971 800 332, [email protected]
If you’re a traveler needing a quick shopping spree before your flight, Dubai Festival City Mall is located less than 5 minutes from Dubai International Airport.
After shopping at more than 350 stores like Zara, H&M, and IKEA, this mall also offers wonderful views of the city skyline and sunset from Festival Bay. While you’re here, I say don’t skip the fountain show too—this occurs every 30 minutes after 7 pm.
Dubai Mall
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Website: https://thedubaimall.com/ar
Address: Downtown Dubai
Contact Details: +971 800 382246255, [email protected]
Dubai Mall is one of the biggest shopping malls in the world, so I bet you can find almost everything you’ll ever need here. Whether it’s fashion, gadgets, or a piece of fancy jewelry, you’ll surely find yourself a nice souvenir or gift for your loved ones.
In my opinion, the ice rink and aquarium here are pretty chill too (literally!). This makes the mall super fun and family-friendly. But for me, it’s pretty easy to get lost here, so I recommend using the mall’s app for easier navigation.
Ibn Battuta Mall
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Website: https://www.ibnbattutamall.com/
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Jebel Ali Village
Contact Details: +971 800 6254335, [email protected]
Art and culture fanatics might fall in love with Ibn Battuta Mall, the world’s largest themed shopping mall! This was named after a famous Arabian explorer, whose travel experiences shaped how the space was designed.
The mall offers 6 zones—China Court, India Court, Persia Court, Egypt Court, Tunisia Court, and Andalusia Court. The way I see it, it’s like traveling around the world as you shop and appreciate the gorgeous architecture!
Where to Stay near Al Habtoor City
Al Habtoor Palace
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Website: https://www.habtoorpalace.com/en
Address: Al Habtoor City – Sheikh Zayed Rd
Contact Details: +971 4 435 5555, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Al Habtoor Palace is an upscale hotel in a beaux arts-style building that overlooks Safa Park. It’s 6 km from the Dubai Mall, making shopping easily accessible.
While all plush rooms already have necessities like free Wi-Fi, TVs, and minifridges, I suggest upgrading your suites to get dining rooms and rooftop plunge pools. There’s even a butler service too—making that royal life dream come true!
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai
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Website: https://www.marriott.com/en-us/hotels/dxbjw-jw-marriott-marquis-hotel-dubai/overview/
Address: Business Bay
Contact Details: +971 4 414 0000, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai is a 5-star spot set in 2 modern high-rise towers. It’s conveniently 3 km from the Burj Khalifa skyscraper and 4 km from the Dubai Mall, so both sightseeing and shopping needs could be met.
I love the sleek floor-to-ceiling windows too! For extra privacy, I appreciate that the palatial suites offer separate living rooms. And if you want to take a refreshing dip after a long day, I suggest trying the heated outdoor pool!
Holiday Inn Express Dubai Safa Park
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Website: https://www.ihg.com/hotels/gb/en/dubai/dxbsp/hoteldetail
Address: Al Wasl District – Sheikh Zayed Road – Al Wasl Rd
Contact Details: +971 4 511 9333
Pricing: $$
Taking the little ones in tow? I bet the Holiday Inn Express Dubai Safa Park is for you! In my opinion, it’s a reasonably-priced 3-star hotel that’s also 12 km from the Wild Wadi Waterpark.
I adore the warm colors in the modern rooms too! It has all the essentials, but note that some have sofa beds. Also, make sure to use the nice perks, like the free hot buffet breakfast and the complimentary shuttle to Jumeirah and Dubai Mall.
V Hotel Dubai
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Website: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/dxbvhqq-v-hotel-dubai/
Address: Al Habtoor City – Sheikh Zayed Rd
Contact Details: +971 4 436 6666, reservations.v@hiltonalhabtoorcity
Pricing: $$$
V Hotel Dubai is a 5-star, ultramodern high-rise accommodation overlooking Dubai Creek and the Persian Gulf. It’s home to the city’s first permanent stage show, La Perle by Franco Dragone, so you can also enjoy an award-winning performance.
I recommend going for the upgraded rooms to get separate living rooms. Some even feature Gulf views, round beds, whirlpool tubs, and kitchenettes! Later, you can take a chill pill at the outdoor pool with the private cabanas and a poolside snack bar.
The First Collection Business Bay
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Website: https://www.thefirstcollection.ae/business-bay/
Address: Al A’amal St – Business Bay
Contact Details: +971 4 873 4444, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
The First Collection Business Bay is a well-lit, lush 4-star hotel near Al Habtoor City. It’s also accessible to the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC), Dubai Mall, and City Walk.
There are 3 primary rooms here (Deluxe, Premium, and Club), and I love that each has views of the stables, racecourse, Dubai Canal, and Burj Khalifa! With the rooms’ decent sizes, I think these are perfect for 2 guests seeking a convenient and relaxing stay.
Tips When Visiting Al Habtoor City
Now that you’re familiar with the ins and outs of Al Habtoor City, here are some tips to make your stay more hassle-free:
Get insured.
It’s wise to have travel insurance that can cover any health issues you may have. But no worries! There are plenty of medical facilities around Al Habtoor City.
Book everything in advance.
Making online reservations ahead of time can get you the best hotel rates and availability, especially during peak travel times. It also gives the staff enough time to cater to your special requests, if any.
Mind what you wear.
Although Dubai is quite cosmopolitan, it’s still advisable to dress appropriately when you’re in public. Swimwear is OK at the pool or beach, but it’s best to cover up when you’re walking to the hotel.
Learn some Arabic phrases.
While many folks here can speak English, learning a few Arabic words is still handy because you never know when you’ll be in a pickle.
Bring cash with you.
While credit cards are widely accepted around the city, some smaller shops might require cash. It’s handy to have some with you to keep things breezy.