We’ve been banging on about just how wonderful Dubai is and the hundreds of things to see and do in this City of Gold. Confirming our fervent belief are millions of Tripadvisor users who voted Dubai as the third best travel destination in the world for 2026.
The travel information and booking website released its annual Traveller’s Choice Awards Best of the Best Destinations list for 2026, and our emirate came up triumphant as #3 in the World and #1 in the Middle East categories of 2026’s top destinations award.
Why Dubai is the third best travel destination
Dubai leapt over dream destinations such as Hanoi, Paris, Marrakech, Rome and Tokyo for the top billing on this list. According to Tripadvisor, what worked in Dubai’s favour is it “mixes modern culture with history, adventure with world-class shopping and entertainment.” Additionally, iconic venues such as the Dubai Opera, Burj Khalifa and the souks along Dubai Creek were all mentioned as must-visit locations.
Adventure sports also gave Dubai an edge over the competition. Activities like hot air balloon rides over the desert, high-speed rides at world-class theme parks and skydiving opportunities draw in thrill-seeking travellers from all corners of the world.
Tripadvisor’s top 10 travel Destinations for 2026
- Bali
- London
- Dubai
- Hanoi
- Paris
- Rome
- Marrakech
- Bangkok
- Crete
- New York City
Tripadvisor’s Travelers’ Choice Awards Best of the Best is a big deal as only cities that receive a large number of user reviews with high ratings in sub-categories of hotels, restaurants and things to do earn this title. The ranking is based on data collected over 12 months of traveller reviews of about 8 million listings on the Tripadvisor website. So you know it is universally believed, by tourists around the globe, that Dubai is the one of the best when it comes to a perfect holiday.