The Burj Al Arab stands out as an iconic landmark in Dubai, just as the Eiffel Tower does in Paris. This luxurious hotel, which was completed in 1999, is located on an artificial island, comes with its own helipad and fleet of chauffeur-driven Rolls Royce limousines, and is spread over 1053ft (321m). Its unique sail-like silhouette, designed by British architect Tom Wright, is wrapped in a translucent fiberglass exterior and rises 60 floors, making it the world's tallest hotel at the time of its opening. Inside, British-Chinese designer Khuan Chew created over 258,333 sq feet (24,000 sq meters) of opulent marble, gold-leaf, hand-knotted carpets, water elements, pillars and other lavish design elements. At the top of the hotel, there is a metal crosspiece, said to be the largest cross in the Middle East, visible only from the sea.

Within the Burj Al Arab, guests can enjoy a variety of bars, restaurants and other amenities. The Skyview Bar, on the 27th floor, provides a stunning view of the Gulf and Dubai skyline. For a unique dining experience, visitors can book a table a Al Mahara, a stunning seafood restaurant with a giant aquarium. If you're not staying at the hotel, you need to make a reservation and a minimum spend applies - check the Burj's website for details.

For a great photo of the Burj Al Arab, you can take a stroll on nearby Jumeirah Public Beach as the sun dips into the Gulf. This wide and clean beach is a great place to spend the day, with a floodlit section for nighttime swimming and boarders to watch during surf time.