Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and Aquarium: A Day by Metro
Most first trips to Dubai include a Downtown day: the view from Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, the Aquarium and the Dubai Fountain at night. All four are next to each other, and the Red Line stops right there. Here is a simple plan.
Getting there
Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station. From the station, a long covered walkway leads into Dubai Mall. Allow extra time for the walk, especially with children. For lines, cards and rules, see our Dubai Metro guide.
Burj Khalifa: which observation deck?
| Ticket | Levels | Good for |
|---|---|---|
| At the Top | 124 and 125 | Most visitors, families |
| At the Top SKY | 148, then 124 and 125 | A quieter, higher deck |
Book online on the official Burj Khalifa site. Sunset slots are popular, so book early if you want the city lights. Daytime slots are often easier to get.
Dubai Mall and the Aquarium
Dubai Mall is huge, so pick a few areas rather than trying to see it all. The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is inside the mall. You can see part of the main tank from the mall floor for free. The tunnel and the zoo upstairs need a ticket.
Leave time for lunch. The mall has food courts and restaurants with views of the lake and the Fountain.
The Dubai Fountain
The Fountain performs in the lake in front of Burj Khalifa. Evening shows run about every 30 minutes from 6pm, and each lasts around five to six minutes. Times change during Ramadan, so check the Dubai Mall website on the day.
For a good view, stand on the promenade around the lake, or by Souk Al Bahar across the water.
A simple Downtown day
- Late morning: metro to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall, then the Aquarium.
- Lunch: in Dubai Mall.
- Afternoon: shopping, or a rest back at the hotel.
- Sunset: your Burj Khalifa slot.
- Evening: watch two or three Fountain shows, then dinner by the lake.
Where to stay for a Downtown day
All five Rose hotels give you an easy route to Downtown:
| Hotel | Area |
|---|---|
| Rose Executive Hotel DWTC | Opposite Dubai World Trade Centre, on Sheikh Zayed Road |
| Rose Park Hotel Al Barsha | Opposite Insurance Market Metro Station, Red Line |
| Rose Plaza Hotel Al Barsha | Near Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha 1 |
| Rose Garden Hotel Apartments Al Barsha | Studios to three bedrooms, Al Barsha 1 |
| Rose Garden Hotel Apartments Bur Dubai | Behind BurJuman Mall and metro station |
Book on our official site for the best available rate.
FAQ
Which metro station is for Burj Khalifa?
Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station on the Red Line. A covered walkway leads into Dubai Mall.
Which floors can you visit in Burj Khalifa?
At the Top covers levels 124 and 125. At the Top SKY adds level 148.
What time is the Dubai Fountain show?
In the evening, shows run about every 30 minutes from 6pm. Check the Dubai Mall website for the day’s times.
Is the Dubai Aquarium free?
You can see part of the main tank from the mall for free. The tunnel and the Underwater Zoo need a ticket.