We Didn’t Leave Al Wasl until We Got Every Bit of Insider Info
Me and my buddies know how nerve-wracking it can be to dive into new turf. It’s like you’re an alien dropped onto some strange planet, having to figure things out quickly or else you’ll die. Well, as dramatic as that sounds, traveling can be really scary for some.
So even though spontaneity has its charm, we reckon there’s nothing more satisfying than getting ready (or maybe even overdoing it) to cut down on any hiccups that might pop up on your journey—especially to a far-off land or an ancient district, like Al Wasl.
Al Wasl might not pop up first when you’re chatting about Dubai neighborhoods because it’s kind of old-school. But man, does it have a lot of stuff to love. We’ve put together everything we know below, so you can see it for yourself and have a blast.
What is Al Wasl known for?
Al Wasl Dubai is known for being among Dubai’s most important districts. Once a trade hub, it’s now a cultural hotspot with galleries, theaters, and trendy shops. It’s the city’s past and present in one dynamic neighborhood—a must-see!
Best Time to Go
The best time to visit Al Wasl, Dubai, is during the cooler winter months from November to March. You’ll dodge the scorching heat and have a blast checking out spots like the Burj Khalifa and Jumeirah Beach without sweating that much.
How to Get Around
What to Do in Al Wasl, Dubai
Wander around City Walk
Media from citywalkdubai
Website: https://www.citywalk.ae/
Address: Al Safa St – Al Wasl – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 590 5090, [email protected]
City Walk is where it’s at in Al Wasl—trendy shops, awesome dining, and cool hangouts all in one spot. Whether you’re browsing or splurging, it’s a shopper’s paradise and foodie heaven, amazing for those taking a casual stroll.
But this isn’t just for grown-ups. With play areas, cinemas, and loads of family fun, we appreciate that it’s like a mini amusement park right in the heart of Dubai.
And the best part for us is that exploring the area won’t cost you a cent. Yep, it’s totally free! Of course, if you’re eyeing specific attractions, you might need tickets or reservations.
Get Active at Safa Park
Media from cute_tahnun
Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Safa – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 800 900
Smack dab in the middle of the city buzz, Safa Park is like a peaceful hideout for everyone wanting to burn some extra calories. Since ‘75, it’s been giving guests killer views of the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai.
Here, you can take a leisurely walk or hit the courts for some hoops or tennis. We also suggest renting a bike, packing a picnic, or firing up the grill for a family feast—this park’s all about good vibes!
But we feel this park’s also all about inclusivity, so don’t fret if you’re not sporty! You could get your sweat on or just chill with a new book.
See the Animals at the Green Planet
Media from thegreenplanetdubai
Website: https://www.thegreenplanetdubai.com/
Address: City Walk – Al Wasl – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: 800 7699, [email protected]
If you’re looking for a relaxed vibe in Al Wasl, The Green Planet is the spot to hit up. Imagine an indoor rainforest packed with over 3,000 plants and critters—it’s like stepping into a tropical getaway without a long flight!
For us, this place is an amazing showcase of innovative design. It’s got this smart setup where sunlight filters in through cleverly placed holes, keeping the atmosphere just right for both visitors and inhabitants.
But, of course, the main attraction for us is the animals. With vibrant birds and laid-back sloths, we love that it’s always lively here. Feeling adventurous? You can also get up close with sugar gliders or snakes in special encounters!
Ride a Boat along the Dubai Water Canal
Media from dubaiwatercanal
Address: Al Safa – Jumeirah 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Dubai Water Canal is a 3.2-km waterway linking Old Dubai to Business Bay that provides a fantastic Dubai adventure. You can check out hotspots like the V Hotel and Hilton Al Habtoor City and catch a glimpse of the epic La Perle by Dragone show.
Need some fresh air? Lace up and hit the 6.4-km waterfront path for a walk, jog, or bike ride. Five pedestrian bridges here also offer killer skyline views, especially the funky Tolerance Bridge, celebrating Dubai’s diversity.
But that’s not all! We’re in awe that the water canal keeps evolving with posh homes, hotels, and plans for shops and a marina. The way we see it, it’s like a playground waiting to be explored!
Bring Your Kids to OliOli Play Museum
Media from olioliuae
Website: http://www.olioli.ae/
Address: 62 4 A St – Al Quoz – Al Quoz 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 702 7300, [email protected]
OliOli Play Museum is where fun and learning collide in Al Wasl. With 8 galleries packed with hands-on exhibits, we reckon there’s something for every kid (and kid at heart).
From designing rockets to going undercover as a secret agent, the possibilities seem endless. Plus, parents can get in on the action! The museum isn’t just for the little ones—we think all kinds of families can bond over imaginative play here.
And when hunger strikes, don’t worry. La Petite Treehouse Cafe is filled with healthy snacks to keep the adventure going strong.
Where to Eat in Al Wasl, Dubai
Muchachas Mexican Cantina
Media from _muchachas_
Website: https://www.muchachasdubai.com/
Address: Holiday Inn Express – Al Wasl – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 327 5878, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Muchachas Mexican Cantina serves fresh and flavorful dishes and delicacies worth trying in Al Wasl. In our opinion, the ambiance here is a breath of fresh air, making it perfect for a laid-back meal.
For one, the interior has a charming mix of pastel hues, which we reckon is a welcome change from the typical Mexican vibe. The setup is snug yet spacious, ideal for those Instagram-worthy snaps without feeling crowded.
And from zesty guacamole to tasty tacos like duck with pico verde, it caters to all taste buds. The must-try for us is the fondue, brimming with mushrooms and veggies. And let’s not forget the churros—we think it’s the classic sweet finale you can’t miss.
REIF Japanese Kushiyaki
Media from reifkushiyaki
Website: https://reifkushiyaki.com/
Address: Dar Wasl Mall – Al Wasl Rd – Al Wasl – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 255 5142, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Reif Japanese Kushiyaki lures foodies in with its Japanese delights. Led by the renowned chef Reif Othman, we love that it offers an intimate dining vibe with seats giving a peek into the bustling kitchen.
In our opinion, the Wagyu katsu sando (deep-fried beef cutlet sandwich) leads the charge among a myriad of other mouthwatering options, like the inventive kushiyaki skewers (grilled beef) and sumptuous ramen bowls.
Kishmish
Media from kishmishdubai
Website: http://www.kishmish.ae/
Address: Dar Wasl Mall – Al Wasl Rd – Al Wasl – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 349 6665, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Want to try something unique? Tucked near Al Wasl is Kishmish, a spot for those craving Afghan flavors with a modern touch. This restaurant dishes up classics in a cool, industrial-chic space.
We adore the vintage furniture, artsy walls, and fancy chandeliers mingling with lush greenery—a blend of culture and coziness, just right for a chill meal with pals.
You can feast on dishes like grilled lamb, naan (flatbread), and juicy chicken, with the sweet kick of raisins. For dessert, you may also dig into Afghan halva (a sweet, dense confection), ice cream, or creamy rice pudding. Just wash it down later with rose tea!
Molten Me Dubai
Media from molten_me
Website: http://www.moltenme.com/
Address: Wasl Vita Mall – Wasl Vita – Jumeirah 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 343 1310, [email protected]
Pricing: $
Just a skip from City Walk and across from the Galleria Mall, Molten Me Dubai is a dessert lover’s dream. Its claim to fame is the irresistible molten lava cakes that come in many flavors. This goes from classic chocolate to indulgent hazelnut and pistachio.
We say top off your molten lava cake with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream or sip on a well-brewed cup of coffee. Plus, if you can’t resist bringing some sweetness home, we like that this hub has you covered with takeout and delivery options.
Despite the restaurant’s small size, we feel it’s perfect for catching up with pals or treating yourself solo. Just make sure to snag a spot fast—the seats are pretty limited.
Flaky Pastry Croissant Co.
Media from flakypastrydubai
Address: Al Wasl & Al Safa Road Junction, Al Mustaqbal Street, City Walk II – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 54 998 4434
Pricing: $$
Flaky Pastry Croissant Co. exudes cozy charm, fitting right into Al Wasl’s vibe. We find the chic interiors really cool, as they set the scene for a delightful culinary adventure.
Here, you can dive into an amazing lineup of pastries, from savory Margheritas to heavenly double-baked almond croissants. We like that most of these flavors balance lightness with buttery richness.
But the real star for us is the signature flaky pastry croissant—crispy on the outside and fluffy inside! This seems to pair well with a hot cup of Joe. Who says you can’t have breakfast food in the evening?
Where to Stay in Al Wasl, Dubai
La Ville Hotel & Suites
Media from lavilledubai
Address: Al Multaqa St – Al Wasl – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 403 3111, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Like to be pampered in a fancy setting in Al Wasl? La Ville Hotel & Suites is a chic 5-star boutique hotel in Dubai’s urban neighborhood, perfect for both business and leisure travelers.
Featuring 156 modern rooms and apartments with stunning views of Burj Khalifa, we find the hotel very sophisticated with its stylish design and upscale amenities.
For one, the guests can enjoy diverse dining options, a rooftop bar with breathtaking views, and a rooftop infinity pool for relaxation. You may also use handy amenities like the 24/7 fitness center and complimentary Wi-Fi so you can surf the net all day.
Four Seasons Resort Dubai
Media from fsdubai
Website: https://www.fourseasons.com/dubaijb/
Address: Jumeirah Beach Rd – Jumeirah – Jumeirah 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +1 800 819 5053, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
The Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach is where luxury meets relaxation. For us, this place is like a stylish Arabian getaway, blending modern touches with traditional charm for that perfect balance.
Rooms, suites, and specialty suites cater to all tastes, whether you’re flying solo or bringing the whole crew. If you’ve got the means for it, we’re in awe of the presidential suite’s spacious balcony—you can practically sunbathe there and never leave!
Al Habtoor Palace
Media from alhabtoorpalace
Website: https://habtoorpalace.com/
Address: Al Habtoor City – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 435 5555, [email protected]
Pricing: $$$
Al Habtoor Palace is your go-to for a luxe stay in Al Wasl. Decked out with Beaux-Arts vibes, its 182 guest rooms and 52 suites are all about that fancy life. And with perks like butler service and fine dining, we’re pretty confident you’ll feel like royalty.
The highlights for us are the signature suites, including the swanky Sir Winston Churchill Suite and the first Bentley Suite in the Middle East. They come with personalized butler service and Bentley rides, adding a touch of glam to your stay.
And when you’re not in your suite, there’s a spa, tennis courts, and a pool to chill at. Plus, with free parking, WiFi, and top-notch room service, it looks like smooth sailing in here.
Roda Beach Resort
Media from rodabeachresort
Website: http://www.roda-hotels.com/beach-resort/
Address: 28 Al Nessnass St – Jumeirah – Jumeirah 3 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 304 7000, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
Roda Beach Resort in Jumeirah is the ultimate chill spot. It’s practically next door to Kite Beach, so we bet you can live in your flip-flops and sunscreen all day long.
We love that there’s plenty to keep you entertained at the resort. You can splash around in the pool or catch some rays on the sunbathing deck. Feeling peckish? We think it’s best to grab a bite and a drink at the pool lounge for a refreshing scene.
If you’re feeling adventurous, just head down to the beach and dive into some watersport action. Whether it’s jet skiing or paddleboarding, there’s something for everyone craving a dose of adrenaline or just a casual time by the water.
Beach Walk Hotel
Media from beachwalkhoteljumeirah
Website: https://www.beachwalkhotel.ae/
Address: Beach Road – Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Contact Details: +971 4 304 2000, [email protected]
Pricing: $$
The Beach Walk Hotel in Al Wasl nails the city-beach combo. Stylish rooms with AC and big TVs make for comfy stays, plus the free Wi-Fi here keeps you connected hassle-free.
But the rooftop pool is the real deal for us. It offers beautiful views and round-the-clock access, thanks to the 24-hour front desk. We suggest fueling up with a continental breakfast, then hitting nearby Kite & Surf Beach for some serious fun.
What’s more, there are electric scooters for rent, so getting around looks like a blast. We recommend trying it while you’re here!
Tips When Visiting Al Wasl, Dubai
Now that you know your way around Al Wasl, here are some cool tips to ensure your visit to this area goes smoothly:
Explore the souks (markets).Al Wasl is just a hop away from traditional souks like the Gold Souk and Spice Souk. Take some time to wander through these bustling areas, where you can haggle for unique souvenirs and soak up the lively atmosphere.
Be chill during Ramadan.If you’re in town during Ramadan, note that some eateries may have different hours during the day. Remember to be respectful of those who are fasting during this holy month.
Snap responsibly.Dubai’s got some stunning spots for photos, but be cool about it. Respect the rules, especially around places like government buildings and stuff. Nobody wants their holiday snaps to involve getting in trouble.
Keep the electric juice flowing.Make sure you’re prepped for any power needs. Dubai’s got the 220V electricity thing going on, so it’s smart to bring along a universal adapter and a charger that’s up for the voltage dance.
Limber up before a stroll.Before you go wandering around for miles, take a sec to stretch those legs. Nobody wants a cramp to cramp their style while exploring Al Wasl and beyond.