The building alone is well worth a visit. In the 16th century, the Lanfranchi family built this palace leaning against a group of medieval structures showing paintings dating to that era. In 2007 Palazzo Lanfranchi became the Graphic Museum, where you can see collections of prints and drawings from the University of Pisa taking part in educational and art events.

The St Thomas synagogue first opened its doors in 1833, which makes it the the second oldest synagogue in the United States. The building features a domed ceiling with beautiful chandeliers and mahogany pews. The white sand floors both to remind congregants of the 40 years the Jews spent wandering the desert in biblical times and also to pay homage to their Portuguese ancestors who had to muffle the sounds of their footsteps during prayer. Only four synagogues in the world still honour this Dutch-Portuguese tradition.

Dubai Frame is a striking addition to the city’s skyline and a clever piece of engineering. Located in Zabeel Park, it sits between old and new Dubai, giving visitors a unique perspective on both sides of the city. At 150 metres high, the observation decks offer panoramic views, and the glass-floored bridge connecting the two towers makes for a thrilling experience — and a perfect spot for selfies.

Dubai may be famous for the glitz and glamour of its sky-high towers, but the heart of the city is the creek. This saltwater estuary was where the Bani Yas tribe first settled, and its waters supported the city’s early economy through pearl diving and fishing. Today, the area blends history with culture: you’ll find museums, heritage retail spaces, and the winding alleyways of the gold, spice, and textile souks. A ride on a traditional abra across the water is a must, offering a simple yet memorable way to see the creek from the water.