The enormous pink-arched resort at the tip of Palm Jumeirah is one of Dubai's most recognisable landmarks. Even if you're not staying here, there are reasons to visit: Aquaventure, one of the world's largest water parks, has slides, a lazy river, and a private beach. The Lost Chambers Aquarium recreates a sunken Atlantean city around tanks holding 65,000 marine animals, including sharks and rays.
Non-guests can buy day passes for the water park (which includes aquarium access). The resort also has a string of celebrity-chef restaurants -- Nobu and Ossiano (underwater fine dining) being the most notable. It's expensive, glossy, and unapologetically over the top, which is more or less the point of Dubai.