Planning a trip to Dubai can be tricky. In a city famed for its glittering neighbourhoods, world-class restaurants, and a general dedication to the high life, you're spoilt for choice. Dubai is home to some of the most exclusive, impressive, and downright outrageous hotels on the planet (Burj Al Arab, we’re looking at you), but we suggest exploring Dubai the Plum Guide way, by settling in to one of our remarkable homes and living like a local for the week (or two). We do have the best accommodation on offer, after all. Pondering where to stay in Dubai? Look no further than our dedicated guide to the city’s finest neighbourhoods. Just beware of one thing - you may never want to go home.

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As the name suggests, this is the nucleus of Dubai, and the place to find endless things to do, eat, and see in the City of Gold. A circuit board of glittering streets, soaring buildings, and contemporary design, this is the place to stay if you want to throw yourself into Dubai at full force. Plum Guide has a fabulous collection of properties tucked in the heart of Downtown, a stone’s throw (or diamond’s throw, as the case may be) from some of its top sights. Don’t miss craning your neck at the Burj Khalifa, which stands proudly at 829.8m and remains the world’s tallest tower. Ready for some retail therapy? Look no further than the Dubai Mall, where the biggest names in fashion stand gleaming in this $20 billion Downtown complex. Leave the mall and take a stroll down Burj Plaza, which leads you around the glistening lake towards Burj Park. Come evening time, you’ll have a wealth of acclaimed restaurants to choose from, ranging from decorated fine dining establishments to sizzling street food.

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In the most Dubai-like of all Dubai design features, this artificial archipelago is shaped like a palm tree when viewed from above. Built from reclaimed land, it is home to some of the city’s most exclusive resorts - so if you're in the market for a slice of the high life, this is the place for you. Once you’ve settled in, head to The View at the Palm, for 360-degree views of the city and the emirate’s coastline. Be sure to make use of the silky-smooth Palm Monorail, which glides past 1,000 meters of the Arabian Gulf and stops by prime sights like Golden Mile Galleria, Al Ittihad Park, and Nakheel Mall.

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When considering where to stay in Dubai, you’d be forgiven for overlooking Al Fahidi. This district is a little more under the radar - popular with locals raising families out of the glare of the inner city lights. But if you’re looking for a slower pace and plenty of culture, look no further. Located along the Dubai Creek, much of this area’s original features are still standing - a little like taking a trip into the Dubai of yesteryear, if you will. Get lost in the winding streets to discover time-worn wind towers, independent museums, and traditional food on your very own historical walking tour. By night, sleep peacefully under the stars well away from the buzz of Dubai’s city centre.

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This newly-completed harbour, nestled on the historic banks of Dubai Creek, is fast becoming one of the city’s most sought-after neighbourhoods - for permanent residents and visitors alike. Settle into one of Plum Guide’s light-flooded properties in this waterside district, where you’ll be able to drink in views of Downtown while relaxing into the peaceful surroundings. Here, you’ll find al fresco dining a-plenty. There's something about being by the water that makes us want to slow right down, sink into a book, and let the hours drift by - all with the Dubai skyline glowing in the distance, of course. Wondering where to stay in Dubai? This might just be the perfect spot for you.

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Stick close to the water if you fancy filling your stay with waterside feasts, waterside markets, soothing boat trips, rooftop drinks, and the odd mega-yacht sighting. One of the city’s most exclusive neighbourhoods, this might just be the Dubai of your imagination. Stretching along two miles of glowing sand facing the Arabian Gulf, you’ll find glassy skyscrapers glistening in the sun, while the beaches beg you to unwind in the soft sand - and perhaps enjoy a camel ride or two. Be sure to take a long walk (or maybe a morning jog, if the mood strikes) along Dubai Marina, passing by Dubai’s International Marine Club. Or hire a bike and head to the canals of The Walk, an exclusive network leading you past some of the area’s most striking buildings - and even more striking supercars.

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Framed by the Persian Gulf, Sharjah, and Al Awir, Deira is one of Dubai’s most culturally significant neighbourhoods. While it may not shine quite as bright as some of the city’s more glamorous districts, it offers a slightly more affordable lifestyle, with enough fantastic food, shopping, and cultural hubs to make you feel like a Dubai local. Explore this eastern area with your eyes open for bustling cafes and craft stores, before heading to the jewel of the area - its collection of world-famous traditional Arab souks. Dig for gold, spice, and perfumes while the heading aromas of the city flood your senses.

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