If you’re planning your next trip to Dubai, you may be wondering what the best places to visit in Dubai are. While Dubai has many beaches and an amazing skyline with its famous Burj Khalifa, there are also plenty of historic places that can teach you more about the culture of this desert city. Here are 10 places to visit in Dubai that will inspire you with their history and natural beauty.

#1 Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek is a saltwater creek located at the heart of Dubai. It divides Dubai into two main parts: Deira and Bur Dubai. A hub for trade for hundreds of years, it runs all through Dubai, from Diera on its north end to Jumeirah on its south end. The Corniche runs along its eastern shoreline, where you’ll find some of Dubai’s most beautiful beaches. Bring your kids out to play in the Arabian Gulf waters here—this stretch is generally quite safe, although swimming isn’t allowed near oil pipelines or industrial areas.

#2 Burj Khalifa

Standing 2,722 feet (828 meters) tall and featuring an awe-inspiring double decker bridge, Dubai’s iconic Burj Khalifa is a must-see for anyone visiting Dubai. It’s also home to several world records, including tallest building in the world, highest restaurant in the world and tallest indoor observation deck. Who wouldn’t want to go up there? ! Each level has its own appeal, but we think it might be worth it to splurge on tickets for Dubai’s 148th floor At The Top observation deck; not only will you get some of the best views of Dubai city, but you can pop into Nad Al Sheba Wildlife Park before or after your visit—complete with Arabian Oryx and exotic birds.

#3 Jumeirah Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a grand mosque in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates and is considered one of the most important mosques in United Arab Emirates. The mosque is named after Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, ruler of Abu Dhabi and founder of UAE. It was completed in 2007 and holds up to 40,000 worshipers.

#4 Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

(Dubai) This mosque is dedicated to Sheikh Zayed, and was built at a cost of around $4.5 billion. The construction of this mosque began in 1996 and took almost 14 years to complete; it was opened for public worship in 2007. It’s one of Dubai’s most important buildings and houses one of its most beautiful interiors.

#5 Palm Jumeirah Island

One of Dubai’s most popular destinations, Palm Jumeirah is an artificial island constructed off Dubai’s coastline, just south of mainland Dubai. It was designed by Turner-Prize winning architect, Lord Norman Foster and creates a perfect holiday paradise for residents and tourists alike. Surrounded by crystal clear waters, palm trees and pristine beaches – it provides access to some of Dubai’s most beautiful buildings. The Dubai Marina Mall is one of its biggest attractions. There are also numerous hotels on or near Palm Jumeirah including The Cove Rotana Hotel & Spa, Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Le Royal Meridien Hotel Downtown Dubai Marina, Hilton Garden Inn Dubai Marina Mall, JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai and others.

#6 Al Qasr Hotel Downtown Dubai

Located right near Burj Khalifa, Dubai’s tallest building, Al Qasr is a historic place with luxurious rooms and traditional Arabic decor. This luxury hotel offers an amazing view of Dubai Creek and its surroundings. Also located nearby are some of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks including Dubai Museum, Bastakiya District, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Spice Souk, Gold Souk and much more. A stay at Al Qasr Hotel is perfect for travelers who want an upscale experience while experiencing Dubai’s rich history. It has great on-site restaurants, beauty salon services, gymnasium facility, meeting rooms and ballroom that can host parties for up to 500 people. You can even request car service from here if you want transportation around Dubai at any time of day or night.

#7 Jebel Ali Racecourse

Housed in a beautiful building and set around a leafy courtyard, Mercato is one of Dubai’s best-loved shopping destinations. It’s home to an array of both local and international brands, such as Emporio Armani, Tous and Zara Home. There are also more than 50 cafes and restaurants on site—themed after different countries—so you can grab something delicious while you shop.

#8 Mercato Shopping Mall

This mall is considered as one of Dubai’s cultural landmarks. Located near Burj Khalifa, Mercato features handmade goods and artisanal products that you can use as souvenirs from your Dubai trip. It also includes eateries, boutiques, entertainment centers and cafes where you can relax and spend your afternoon away from busy streets. #7 Jumeirah Mosque: If you love Islamic architectures, then Jumeirah Mosque would be an exciting place for you to visit when in Dubai. Since it is one of three mosques in Dubai situated on an island at Jumeirah Bay, it stands out with its two minarets made with special Turkish tiles called Iznik tiles.

#9 Souk Madinat Jumeirah

A historic open-air market that has been created into a tourist attraction that’s still thriving with locals, Souk Madinat Jumeirah is an experience not be missed. Learn more about local culture and buy something unique at one of its many cafes, shops and restaurants. It’s located close to Burj Al Arab so you can easily combine your trip here with visiting one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks. #8 Dubai Creek: What would Dubai be without her Creek? This body of water is integral to the city’s history, with changes over time demonstrating how Dubai has developed. You can walk or take a boat ride along it for great views of everything from modern buildings to traditional dhows (shipping vessels). From traditional pearl diving to souks (markets) lining its banks, there are many things about Dubai Creek that will surprise you.

#10 Wild Wadi Water Park

With over 40 rides and attractions, Wild Wadi Water Park has something for everyone. Most notable are their world-class slides, including The Kite, which reaches speeds of up to 45 miles per hour. Open year-round, Wild Wadi is a fantastic way to spend a day with family or friends during Dubai’s hot summer months.