6 Places to Visit in Dubai if You Can't Go to Europe

These Dubai destinations lets you enjoy a mini Europe getaway without travelling out of the UAE

Posted on

3 July 2023

| Last updated on 5 January 2024

by Clarice Awa

Pictured: Riverland (The French Village) in Dubai Parks and Resorts.

These lovely locales offer a unique taste of Europe right in the UAE.

That's right, residents and visitors can visit remarkable European-inspired destinations without having to leave the emirates!

From cobblestone streets to Old World architecture, we round up some places in Dubai that transport you to a European-esque mini getaway!

1. Visit a little French town at Riverland, Dubai Parks & Resorts

Located in Dubai Parks and Resorts, Riverland (or The French Village) is a free-entry dining, leisure, and entertainment destination inspired by old French towns.

Visitors can stroll along the charming European-inspired town, the man-made river, tuck into a meal at any of the restaurants housed in a medieval-esque building, check out the water wheel, or enjoy any of the family-friendly events taking place at Riverland throughout the year.

2. Rustic European day out at Century Village Dubai

Century Village Dubai combines dining with a European flair and ambiance, from cobblestoned streets to old-fashioned street lamps and ornate fountains. The best time to visit this place is during the cooler winter months (November to February).

Head over to this expat hotspot in Garhoud for al fresco dining bringing the flavours of Ireland, Germany, Italy, Portugal, and further west with a New York-style bar and grill.

3. Lush European oasis at The Courtyard, Al Quoz

For a European-esque break from the hustle and bustle of the city, check out The Courtyard, a serene art and culture destination in Al Quoz. This lush green community space has lovely cafes and shops to visit, and it is dubbed as an "oasis" by many residents.

Art, culture, wellness, and other community events often take place at The Courtyard, so be sure to keep an eye on their social media pages to know what's coming up soon.

Image credit: @courtyarduae (Instagram)

4. Shop like you're in Italy at Dubai Outlet Village

Dubai Outlet Village is another great suggestion if you want to experience as though you are shopping in Europe. The architecture of this shopping mall is reminiscent of old Italian towns, such as San Gimignano in Tuscany.

Visitors will find a wide range of international brands at more affordable prices, as well as luxury clothes and accessories.

5. Go to Europe without travelling out of the UAE at Mercato Mall

Mercato Mall is as a European-style shopping, leisure, and dining destination in Dubai, loved for its unique architecture themed like a colourful Mediterranean marketplace. This shopping centre has been a popular place for UAE citizens and expats for over two decades.

Image credit: Mercato Mall Dubai

6. Picturesque European vibes at Vincitore Boulevard

Vincitore Boulevard is a newly developed mixed residential, retail, and dining destination in Al Barsha South, Arjan. Inspired by architecture styles from the Victorian Era, it's a small and luxurious district with grassy stoned pathways, soothing water features, lovely cafes and shops, and an open air courtyard.

Image credit: Vincitore Real Estate Development LLC

Upcoming places in Dubai that feel like Europe

Rain and snow at Dubai's upcoming European destination

Côte d’Azur beach resort, located in the Heart of Europe on Dubai's upcoming World Islands, houses a lovely street where the climate is controlled all year long. At this 1-km long street, visitors will soon be able to experience rain, snow, and shine similar to France's weather.

According to a Khaleej Times report, the climate can be controlled to deliver a temperature of 27 degrees, winds with a speed of 5 km/h, and humidity levels of up to 60%.