Dubai is a city of contrasts—futuristic skyscrapers on one side, golden deserts on the other, luxury waterfronts, historic neighborhoods, and world-class attractions spread across the map.
With so much to see, many visitors ask the same question:
Which side of Dubai should I explore first?
The real answer is that every corner of Dubai offers something different—
And the best way to discover it all is by driving your own rental car.
Here is a simple guide to help you choose where to begin.
Start With the Heart: Downtown Dubai
Ideal for: First-time visitors, families, city lovers
Downtown Dubai includes:
Burj Khalifa
The Dubai Mall
Dubai Fountain
The Opera District
This is modern Dubai at its most iconic. Park your Fluxe rental, explore the attractions, enjoy the restaurants, and take your first postcard-worthy photos.
Head West for Coastal Views and Luxury
Ideal for: Beach lovers, nightlife fans, and waterfront explorers
Key places on the western coastline include:
Jumeirah Beach
Dubai Marina
JBR (The Walk & The Beach)
Bluewaters Island
This side of Dubai offers beach relaxation, seaside dining, yacht marinas, and a stylish atmosphere that continues from day to night.
Explore Old Dubai and the Creek
Ideal for: History seekers, cultural explorers, and traditional markets
Highlights of Old Dubai:
Al Fahidi Historical District
Dubai Creek
Spice, Gold, and Textile Souks
Traditional abra boat crossings
This area shows Dubai’s roots before the skyscrapers—perfect for markets, museums, local food and cultural experiences.
Venture Out to the Desert
Ideal for: Adventurers, photographers, and thrill seekers
Just outside the city, you can:
Experienced dune bashing
Join desert camps
Ride camels
Watch a desert sunset and a starry sky
With your own rental car, reaching desert meeting points becomes easy and flexible.
Why Renting a Car Makes Everything Easier
Dubai offers metro lines and taxis, but renting a car provides greater freedom:
Travel according to your schedule
Save time by avoiding long waits
See multiple areas in a single day
Explore beyond public transport routes
Convenient for families and business travellers
With Fluxe Rent A Car, you benefit from:
A wide range of economy, SUV, and luxury vehicles
Simple booking and pickup options
Competitive pricing
Airport collection available
Friendly customer support
So, which area should you choose?
The best answer is to explore all sides of Dubai.
Start downtown, continue to the beaches, visit Old Dubai, and end your journey in the desert.
Dubai offers a complete mix of experiences—and Fluxe Rent A Car is here to help you reach every corner.