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Things to do

31 Amazing things to do in Dubai for the ultimate holiday

Sun, August 14, 2022

Tick off the city's top things to do and places to visit.

Burj Khalifa

Standing 828m high, the  Burj Khalifa  is the tallest building in the world and one of Dubai's must-visit attractions. The majestic building is located in the heart of the city and is a hub of activity day and night. Just looking up in awe at the sheer scale of this magnificent structure is memorable in itself, but it's definitely worth venturing inside too. You can capture perfect views of the city from the  observation  deck at levels 124 and 125, or have a bite to eat in the  At The Top Sky Lounge . For special occasions, treat yourself to a sunset session at The Lounge, Burj Khalifa ,  the highest lounge in the world at 585m. 

Opening hours - At The Top:  8am - 12am, daily

Price - At The Top: from AED169

• 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai

The Dubai Fountain

Located at the base of Burj Khalifa  is one of the world's largest choreographed fountain displays, where powerful jet streams soar as high as 150m in the air and sway in time to musical numbers. Stop by in the evening when displays begin at sundown and take place every 30 minutes, until the final song plays at 11pm. Diners can also sit back and enjoy the show at an array of restaurants at Dubai Mall  or Souk Al Bahar , both commanding prime positions near the fountain arena.

Opening hours:  6pm - 11pm, daily

Price:  free

• Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Dubai

Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah is one of the largest manmade islands in the world and a triumph of human ingenuity. Locals and tourists alike flock to its vast array of high-end hotels – Waldorf Astoria, Fairmont, One&Only, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray  and, perhaps most notably, Atlantis, The Palm . Getting here is simple, thanks to the monorail running down the 'trunk', which connects to the mainland's tram system.

• Palm Jumeirah - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Dubai Creek

• Baniyas Rd, Deira, Dubai

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. Best seen on foot, this area offers nostalgic views of a bygone era with traditional windtowers and a maze of winding alleyways, positioned along the historic waterways of Dubai Creek. Visit Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) to appreciate local culture with Arabic classes, heritage tours and guided mosque visits. After exploring, take an atmospheric abra  boat ride  to the souks on the other side of the creek. 

• Al Fahidi St, Al Souq Al Kabeer, Bur Dubai

The Dubai desert

Less than a 20 minute-drive from the modern streets of Downtown Dubai lies the mystique-filled Arabian desert. Go on a Dubai-style desert safari, complete with thrilling activities  such as quad biking and sandboarding. Those looking for luxury can book a safari with leading tour companies  Platinum Heritage  and Arabian Adventures . From the unforgettable offroad drive to cultural fun with henna painting and camel rides, and a feast of local cuisine under the stars, it's an only-in-Dubai treat. Want to stay a little longer? Treat yourself to an unforgettable night amid the dunes at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa .

• Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai-Al Ain Rd - Dubai

Dubai Mall is the world’s largest destination for shopping, entertainment and leisure, located next to the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Featuring over 1,200 retail stores, two major department stores and hundreds of food and beverage outlets, Dubai Mall covers more than 1 million sqm – an area equivalent to 200 football pitches. Even an entire day spent here is not enough to see it all. Along with its 1,200-plus shops and 150 restaurants, the venue  is home to a range of other fun attractions.

Opening hours: 10am - 1am, daily, except Wednesday (closes at midnight)

• Financial Centre Road - Downtown Dubai

Skydive Dubai

If there's one thing every adventure-seeker must sign up for, it's a skydiving experience. Skydive Dubai provides tandem skydive opportunities, supervised by trained professionals. You'll have to book well in advance to secure a spot, but it's worth it as you dive through the clouds from 13,000 feet and take in views  of the landmark Palm Jumeirah or rolling dunes of the desert. And you can keep reliving the epic experience thanks to perfectly-captured videos by the Skydive Dubai team. It's one for every braveheart's bucket list.

• Al Seyahi Street, Dubai Marina - Dubai

Madinat Jumeirah

Literally translated as 'City of Jumeirah', the Madinat Jumeirah complex is inspired by an ancient citadel. Housing luxury hotels and private enclaves designed to reflect traditional Arabian architecture, it's a great spot to indulge in a therapeutic day at the world-class Talise Spa , splurge on local trinkets and boutique brands at the Madinat Souk , or immerse yourself in the work of famous artists at the high-tech Theatre of Digital Art . And, with over 40 restaurants and lounges featuring cuisines from around the world, it's also an ideal place to refuel.

Opening hours & price: vary, depending on venues within the complex

• 6 King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Dubai

Dubai Frame

Since opening in 2018,  Dubai Frame  has become a cultural landmark that connects the Dubai's past with its present and represents a remarkable engineering feat.  Located within Dubai's famous Zabeel Park , this attraction lets you experience the transition between Old and New Dubai thanks to sweeping panoramic views of the city from 150m high. One of its striking features is the state-of-the-art clear glass bridge walkway, which connects parallel vertical towers so that, from the outside, the structure perfectly resembles a giant picture frame.

Opening hours:  9am - 9pm, daily

Price:  from AED20

• Zabeel Park, Za'abeel 1 - Dubai

The aptly-named Kite Beach is the perfect place to test out your watersports skills , although there's plenty to do out of the water at this popular spot too. Grab a smoothie from one of the many open-air cafes and restaurants, watch bikers and skaters fly by at the skate park, or enjoy a game of volleyball with friends on the sand. With plenty of beach activities, plus an incredible view of Burj Al Arab  in the distance, you can easily spend a whole day here.

Opening hours: 24 hours, daily, although sporting and dining venues at the beach have varying timings.

• Umm Suqeim, just off Jumeirah Beach Road

Dubai Water Canal

Dubai Water Canal is a 3.2-kilometre-long waterway extending from the Creek in Old Dubai  through Business Bay before finding its way to the Arabian Gulf. With 80,000sqm of public space and facilities and a 12km cycling path, the Canal has become a popular visitor attraction. There are also five pedestrian bridges that snake their way across the iconic waterway, so it's the perfect spot to stroll and take in classic views of the city at its best. Nearby is the Al Habtoor City  development, home to the thrilling  La Perle by Dragone  show, five-star hotels and an array of trendy restaurants.

• Dubai Water Canal, Al Safa, Dubai

If you'd like to shop, dine, watch a movie and swim in the sea all in one place, consider a trip to The Beach, opposite Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). With guest DJs playing on most weekends, a cinema and plenty of trendy boutiques , The Beach is always buzzing with activity. Take your pick from the range of dining options, try the exhilarating watersports on offer or just enjoy some relaxation time in a cabana with your favourite book. The Beach is also connected to the trendy new  Bluewaters Island  district by a pedestrian bridge.

Opening hours - F&B outlets: 10am - midnight, Saturday - Wednesday, extended to 1am on Thursday and Friday 

• The Beach, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai

City Walk offers European-style pedestrian streets alongside a host of shopping and entertainment options – perfect for a pleasant day out. Take a walk along tree-lined avenues with shops and restaurants and spot artwork etched by some of the world's finest urban artists . Afterwards, treat your family to an afternoon of fun and head over to The Green Planet  to see real wildlife in an indoor tropical rainforest setting. You can also catch a concert, live sports or a comedy show at the nearby  Coca-Cola Arena , the Middle East's largest indoor arena.

• Al Wasl and Al Safa Road Junction, Sheikh Zayed Rd - Al Wasl - Dubai

Dubai Miracle Garden

A world of floral wonder awaits you at Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest natural flower garden. The 72,000sqm park has an impressive line-up of famous buildings and structures completely transformed into colourful flower displays. You can immerse yourself among more than 50 million blooming flowers throughout the different exhibits. The nearby Dubai Butterfly Garden  is also worth a trip. Here, children can explore over 15,000 species of butterflies whilst learning more about them in a fun setting.

Opening hours:  9am - 9pm on weekdays, extended until 10pm on Saturday and Sunday

Price:  from AED60

• Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand Area, Dubai

Dubai Opera

Located in the Downtown district, Dubai Opera offers an enticing performing arts schedule from the likes of London’s West End and Manhattan’s Broadway. With views of  The Dubai Fountain  and located next to Burj Khalifa , the eye-catching exteriors are inspired by Arabian dhow ships while the stage area is designed to easily convert into three different event platforms: theatre, hall or concert hall. Want to know what's playing at Dubai Opera while you're holidaying in the city? Visit  Dubai Calendar .

Opening hours:  10am - 9pm, daily (show timings may vary)

Price:  from AED145

• Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard (near Burj Khalifa), Downtown Dubai, Dubai
• Dubai Marina

A 130km drive south-east of Downtown Dubai is Hatta , a not-to-be-missed scenic getaway. In this mountain town you can try kayaking along the serene Hatta Lake, or traversing rocky mountains on foot with specially-crafted hiking experiences . Recent additions to the area include Hatta Dome Park ,  a glamping experience that takes advantage of  Hatta’s mountainscape  views and back-to-nature vibes, plus  a chic lodge-style hotel and trailer parks. Indulge in a host of adventure activities such as zorbing, mountain biking and more at Hatta Wadi Hub. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, as the Hub is also home to Asia’s first ever water jump park, Hatta Drop-In.

• Hatta Wadi Hub, located off the Dubai-Hatta road

IMG Worlds of Adventure

Unlimited fun, excitement, speed and 5D entertainment – you can expect it all at IMG Worlds of Adventure. This enormous theme park  is the same size as 28 football pitches put together. With the most up-to-date and exciting rides , IMG Worlds of Adventure brings your favourite characters to life. Give your little ones the best time with rides featuring Ben 10, Powerpuff Girls and LazyTown, while older kids can delve into the world of Spider-Man, Hulk, Iron Man and The Avengers.

Opening hours : noon - 10pm, Sunday to Thursday, extended to 11pm on the weekend

Price - general admission:  AED345

• E311, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, City of Arabia Dubai Land, Dubai

Dubai Parks and Resorts

Dubai Parks and Resorts adds to the city's reputation as an entertainment paradise. Children are bound to get excited in the labyrinth of magnificent theme parks, which includes  Motiongate , Real Madrid World  and Legoland and Legoland Water Park . Adults can relax at the Riverland Boulevard , home to restaurants and a range of open-air entertainment. Don't want to leave? Check in to the luxury Polynesian-style hotel, The Lapita, or the region's first and only Legoland Hotel, both located within the theme park destination.

Opening hours:  10am - 11pm, daily

Price - One Park Pass:  from AED295

• Sheikh Zayed Road, Opposite Palm Jebel Ali, Dubai

The View at The Palm

Enjoy incomparable views of one of Dubai’s most talked about landmarks at The View at The Palm. Located 240m high, the observation deck presents never seen before 360-degree panoramas of  Palm Jumeirah  alongside the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline  in the distance. The View at The Palm is located on level 52 of The Palm Tower, which also houses a café, a creative exhibition that showcases the development of the island, interactive aquarium-themed tunnels and a gift shop. 

Opening hours : 9am - 10pm, weekdays, extended to midnight on weekends

Price:  from AED100

• Level 52, The Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Deep Dive Dubai

The latest addition to the city's thriving sports and adventure activities scene, Deep Dive Dubai is the place to be for all aqua enthusiasts . The recreational centre's 60.02m-deep pool is certified by Guinness World Records as the world's deepest swimming pool for diving. Aside from its remarkable depth, the pool features other unrivalled underwater additions, such as a 'sunken city', alongside year-round freediving and  scuba diving  courses and guided experiences.

Opening hours : 9am - 6pm, except on Friday (closed)

Price:  from AED400

• Deep Dive Dubai, NAS Sports Complex, Dubai

Sky Views Dubai

Thrill-seekers can try a trio of epic experiences at Sky Views Dubai, perched 219.5m above ground on top of the Address Sky View hotel. The Glass Slide allows visitors to zoom down a transparent tunnel on the 53rd floor, while the Observatory features a glass elevator and bridge to further test your head for heights. Meanwhile, true risk-takers will look forward to the Edge Walk – as they dangle off the building's side while strapped to a safety harness. All three experiences allow participants to enjoy phenomenal views  of Downtown Dubai's iconic landmarks, including the nearby Burj Khalifa .

Opening hours : 10am - 10pm, weekdays, extended to midnight on weekends

Price:  from AED70

• Address Sky View hotel, Emaar Square Area, Downtown Dubai

Burj Al Arab

For the first time since its launch, Dubai's famed Burj Al Arab  has opened its doors to visitors, granting access to the hotel's ultra-luxurious interiors on an immersive 90-minute tour. Not only will you get to explore the landmark’s gilded suites, and enjoy its incomparable views of the city , but you'll also uncover the hotel’s history and wealth of untold stories. You can also delve deeper and make the most of your experience with tour customisations.

Tour timings: 9:30am - 8:30pm, daily Price: from AED249

• Jumeirah Road - Umm Suqeim 3 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Museum of the Future

One of Dubai's most famous architectural landmarks , the Museum of the Future  takes pride of place along the city's superhighway, Sheikh Zayed Road. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation, the museum explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using science and technology. Termed a 'living museum', it incorporates elements of traditional exhibitions, immersive theatre and themed attractions, so visitors can look beyond the present and towards the future's limitless possibilities.

Opening hours : 10am - 9:30pm, daily

Price:  from AED149

• Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre - Dubai

Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

Built along the historic Dubai Creek and designed in the shape of a traditional Islamic lectern, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is the latest cultural hotspot to open its doors in the city. A landmark  unique to Dubai, the library is the largest in the region and representative of its collective cultural wisdom, educational milestones and continued forays in research and academia. Aside from enjoying the remarkable architecture and exploring the library's nine levels, visitors can discover a fully digitalised laboratory and several specialised collections inside.

Opening hours : 9am - 9pm, daily, except on Friday (opens 2pm) and Sunday (closed)

Price:  free

• Dubai Creek, Al Jaddaf

Serious foodies can’t possibly visit Dubai without making a stop at the  MENA 50 Best Restaurants  top spot, 3Fils. Its chic yet casual setting, coupled with calming harbourside views and a no-reservations policy, makes this one of Dubai's most unassumingly spectacular dining hotspots . Serving modern Asian cuisine, you’ll find tantalising dishes such as salmon carpaccio, wagyu sushi and fire-grilled octopus on the menu.  Opening hours : noon - 11:30pm, daily

• Shop 2, Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1, Al Urouba St, Jumeirah - Dubai

Aura Skypool

Unwind in the world's highest 360-degree swimming pool as you gaze out at landmarks including Burj Al Arab  and Ain Dubai. Situated 200m above ground, AURA Skypool is the perfect place for an unforgettable swim. Visitors to the Palm Jumeirah venue can also relax in its chic lounge area and sample a menu filled with delicious sharing plates and Pan-Asian flavours . Standouts to try include the glazed miso salmon, chilli honey cauliflower popcorn and matcha tiramisu. 

Opening hours : 10am - 7pm, daily

Price:  from AED150

• The Palm Tower, 50th Floor, Palm Jumeirah

Prepare to be amazed by Dubai's first permanent show, which combines acting, acrobatics, aquatic feats and aerial stunts across an exhilarating 90 minutes. All the action takes place inside a tailor-made, 1,300-seat theatre in the heart of Al Habtoor City , featuring a high-tech ‘aqua-stage’ that can fill with 2.7 million litres of water. Watch from the edge of your seat as performers dive, fly and defy gravity, as they tell a story which pays homage to the UAE's pearl diving history .

Show timings : 6:30pm - 8pm & 9pm - 11:30pm, daily

Price:  from AED209

• Al Habtoor City, 260 Sheikh Zayed Rd, Business Bay - Dubai

Alserkal Avenue

Once an industrial area in the centre of Dubai, Alserkal Avenue now comprises around 40 warehouses, converted into galleries, dance studios, artisanal cafes and more. The neighbourhood has nurtured a culture of creativity and is now one of the region’s leading art hubs. Since its humble beginnings as a standalone gallery in 2008, word caught on and similar concepts soon moved into the area. Popular spots include arthouse theatre  Cinema Akil , the hipster-inspired  Nightjar Coffee  and Leila Heller Gallery.

• 17th Street, Al Quoz 1, Dubai

Expo City Dubai

Building on the legacy of Expo 2020 Dubai , which welcomed 192 nations and more than 24 million visitors, is the future-centric Expo City Dubai. Explore popular country pavilions including the falcon-inspired UAE Pavilion, award-winning Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Pavilion and reworked spaces for Luxembourg, Pakistan and Australia. Alif – the Mobility Pavilion and Terra – the Sustainability Pavilion have been transformed into interactive educational experiences, while the Opportunity Pavilion is now the Expo 2020 Dubai Museum.  Al Wasl Plaza , the Dubai Exhibition Centre, the Garden in the Sky observation tower and the Surreal water feature also remain at Expo City Dubai, which has its own metro station. 

Opening hours: 24 hours daily, though attraction timings vary Price: free to enter, though attraction tickets vary

• Expo Road Dubai South, Jebel Ali

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Popular Tours

Top 5 Dubai Excursions - Based on customer feedback

Helicopter Tour (15 Min)

Fly high above the skies and capture breathtaking panoramic views of the city.

Marina Dinner Cruise

Departing exclusively at Dubai Marina Yacht Club, unlike any other cruise in Dubai, this cruise is a must-do excursion and is very popular with tourists from around the world.

Desert Safari - BBQ & Sunset Photo-Stop

The Desert Safari is a very popular and ‘must-do’ experience for those who wish to explore the mysteries of the vast Arabian Desert in traditional and authentic Bedouin style.

Burj Khalifa 124th Floor

At a remarkable height of 2,716 feet, the Burj Khalifa stands proudly as the tallest building in the world with the highest observation deck.

Sky Dive Dubai (Palm Jumeirah)

One off the bucket list! Get your adrenaline pumping and enjoy a thrilling experience of free-falling at over 120 miles per hour over the Palm, whilst being securely attached to one of our world class instructors.

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Things to do in Dubai: tours and activities

Top attractions in dubai.

Price (per adult)

Tickets option.

Go City | Dubai Explorer Pass

Book your Go City Dubai Explorer Pass with guide now and save on admission to your choice of top Dubai attractions for quick and easy sightseeing.

Burj Khalifa At the Top tickets with The Cafe

Book your tickets to visit the 124th and 125th floors of the Burj Khalifa and The Cafe for a signature treat and pastry of the day.

Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park

Enjoy the Aquarium and its 65.000 marine creatures and have fun at Atlantis Aquaventure with family and friends.

Nat Geo Day Tour: Taste of Tradition, Exploring Emirati Cuisine

Delve into Emirati cuisine on this culinary tour. Shop for ingredients at a local market, engage in a cooking class, and watch a musical performance.

Nat Geo Day Tour: Dubai’s Pearl Diving Legacy

Explore the fascinating culture and tradition of pearl diving in Dubai and understand its historical and cultural significance for the UAE.

Nat Geo Day Tour: The Heritage of Emirati Perfumery

Set off on an aromatic adventure into Emirati Perfumery. Learn about the significance of fragrances like oud, and create your own perfume with skilled guidance.

Dubai Frame tickets

Enjoy your Dubai Frame tickets and see the unique architecture that highlights the Dubai skyline.

Museum of the Future Timed Entry Ticket

Buy this admission ticket to the Dubai Museum of the Future, the ideal exhibition space dedicated to innovative and futuristic ideologies, services and products.

Burj Khalifa tickets: levels 124 and 125

Book your tickets to the Burj Khalifa to ride speedy elevators and visit the tallest building in the world.

Burj Khalifa tickets and 3-course meal at Rooftop

Book your tickets to At the Top, Burj Khalifa and climb the world's tallest building before a lavish meal with more breathtaking views at The Burj Club, Rooftop.

Burj Khalifa fast-track tickets: levels 124, 125 and 148

Discover Dubai from the world's highest skyscraper: take the elevator up to the 148th floor at the Top of the Burj Khalifa and get a different perspective of the city.

Dubai fountain show and lake ride by traditional boat

Book your tickets for the Dubai fountain show and lake ride by traditional boat to get front-row seats to the best show in town.

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Experiences in dubai, introducing dubai.

Dubai has grown in recent years to become one of the world’s great modern cities, famed for its gleaming architecture, luxury shopping, great weather and its ambition. Travelers to this desert metropolis will discover a place that’s always restless and striving for the sky.

Here, you’ll find the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Don’t miss the chance to see the stunning views from the observation deck, especially at sunset when its long shadow stretches off across the sand. You’ll also see the remarkable Palm Jumeirah manmade island and The World: an impressive artificial archipelago designed to resemble the various continents.

It’s not all about the future, however. You can discover the exotic history of Dubai in the traditional districts of Bastakyia and Deira, where you’ll find the old gold and spice souks. Take a traditional Abra water taxi across the Dubai Creek and look back at the skyline from the best viewpoint in the city, or visit the ancient fortress of Al Fahidi. Culture vultures will appreciate the magnificent Jumeirah Mosque and the Dubai Museum.

From Musement Mag

25 best tours, excursions and activities to do in Dubai

By Joan Torres Leave a comment Last updated on April 29, 2024

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Dubai is known for its glitz and glamour and whilst it has both of those in abundance, there are endless cultural and fun excursions to do in Dubai.

It’s hard to think of an activity you can’t do in Dubai, where you could be skiing in the morning and riding a camel across the desert in the afternoon, there are almost too many options!

So we’ve put together this guide of our favorite 25-day trips, excursions, activities, tours and things to do in Dubai to help you out.

Whether you want to take a trip to Abu Dhabi, head out snorkeling or shoot to the top of the Burj Khalifa, Dubai is your oyster. 

Overview – 25 best excursions, day trips, tours, activities and things to do in Dubai

Table of Contents

• Top Dubai activities
• Desert safaris
• Cheapest activities
• Burj Kalifa activities
• Cultural activities
• Luxury activities
• Sea activities
• More Information

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Dubai excursions prices. How much do they cost?

Despite being famous for being ritzy and high-end, there are activities in Dubai for every budget .

Those looking for something easy on the wallet can enjoy short Dubai tours starting from as little as $20, excursions will set you back around $80pp and if you want to splash out then luxury adventures start from around $270pp.

So you can make a choice dependent on you and your budget. 

Top tourist activities and day tours in Dubai

Best desert safaris in dubai.

This is just a small summary. For more options, check the 10 best desert safaris to do in Dubai

The most complete desert safari in Dubai: Red Dunes, Camel Safari, & dinner

If heading out to the desert is high on your list, this is the ideal adventure for you.

On this desert safari, you’ll tick off all the ‘must-do’s as you hit the sand for a bit of dune bashing, enjoy a camel ride, sample coffee, and sweets at a traditional Bedouin camp before finishing your day off with a barbecue and relaxing under the night sky.

Everything you could possibly want from a desert safari , all tied up in a neat little bow. 

Cost: $$ Duration: 7 hours

The most exclusive desert safari in Dubai: Platinum Desert Safari

Now, if you’re looking to hit the desert but want a slightly elevated experience, we’ve got you covered too.

This high-end adventure will see you whisked out into the desert in Range Rovers as you enjoy a wildlife drive through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, head to a royal lake, watch a falconry demonstration, take a camel ride and enjoy a gourmet dinner with canapes and sparkling date juice in a private oasis cabana, making it one of the best excursions from Dubai.

Cost: $$$$ Duration: 7 hours

The best early excursions from Dubai: Sunrise Safari with Wildlife Experience

You’ll be up with the birds for this trip and it will be well worth it as you head out in the darkness, only to see the sunrise above those magnificent golden dunes as you reach the desert’s edge.

After you’ve taken plenty of photos for Instagram, you’ll take a drive in search of magnificent desert wildlife such as gazelle and Arabian oryx before heading to Al Qudra Lakes to enjoy a waterside picnic.

Cost: $ Duration: 4 hours

The cheapest activities to do in Dubai

Fountain show and burj lake ride.

Take in one of the Dubai’s most fabulous tourist attraction as you drift out onto the water of Burj Lake.

You’ll have front row seats to the Dubai Mall Fountain Show, the world’s largest performing fountain where 6,000 lights and 22,000 gallons shoot through the air to modern and classical music.

It’s not just this spectacular show you’ll get to take in, you’ll also float past incredible monuments such as Burj Khalifa and Souk Al Bahar, making it the best budget-friendly activity to do in Dubai.

Cost: $ Duration: 30 minutes

The cheapest safari to do in Dubai: Desert Safari with Barbecue Dinner

Desert safaris can get pretty pricey when you start to add up all the different activities and offerings but fear not, you can still save some dirhams and enjoy a sandy escape.

This trip is extremely well priced considering you’ll still get to take in the golden dunes of Al Hibab, get your adrenaline pumping with a bit of dune bashing, enjoy a camel ride, see the beauty of henna up close and personal, watch a traditional dance show AND enjoy a barbecue dinner. 

Cost: $ Duration: 4-7 hours

The cheapest tour in Dubai: Half Day Dubai City Tour

If you’re short on time but still want to take in the city’s sights, this Dubai half-day tour is perfect for you.

You’ll start by admiring the famous Burj Al Arab Hotel and Jumeirah Mosque and enjoying the modern gems Dubai has to offer.

After, you’ll begin digging a little deeper looking for the city’s historical past as you head to Al Bastakiya to explore the museum and fort and then jump in a water taxi (or abra) to wander the spice souk and the gold souk for a spot of shopping. 

Day trips and excursions from Dubai

Abu dhabi full-day sightseeing tour.

They might seem like they’re a world apart but Abu Dhabi and Dubai are in easy reach of each other, making it a perfect excursion from Dubai.

This full-day tour will take in the Abu Dhabi Corniche, the Emirates Palace and the Qasr Al Watan palace but most notably the picturesque Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

One of the largest mosques in the world, this sight draws visitors from across the globe to gaze in awe at its otherworldly white marble structure and opulent design. 

Cost: $$ Duration: 9 hours

Al Ain Full Day Tour with Lunch

The city of Al Ain is also known as The Garden City on account of its lush green palms and is the traditional seat of the UAE Sheikhs, making it one of the best day tours from Dubai.

This day trip will show you everything the historical city has to offer; the Sheikh Zayed Palace Museum, Jahili Fort, the striking Qasr Al Muwaiji and the healing springs of Al Mubazzarah.

Most excitingly, you’ll visit the famous camel market where people trade for racing and breeding animals and you can have your photo taken with one of these humped beasts. 

Snorkeling Trip to Fujairah

On this trip, you can leave the hustle and bustle of the city behind as you head out to the beautiful beaches of Fujairah.

You’ll cruise out into the turquoise waters in a luxury boat that will take you to a prime snorkeling spot.

From here you’ll have a chance to explore the beautiful local reefs and keep an eye out for sea turtles, dolphins, reef sharks, rays, starfish, seahorses, parrotfish, bow mouth guitarfish and so much more.

You won’t regret swapping sky rises for snorkeling. 

Cost: $$ Duration: 8 hours

The best Dubai city Tours 

The best cultural city tour to do in dubai: old town, dubai creek, souks, and street food tour.

This is the best Dubai city tour to go on if you want to dig down past the flashy facade and into Dubai’s history.

You’ll be led to historic locations to learn about the culture and past, soak up famous art and artifacts in galleries and museums, float down Dubai Creek by abra and visit mosques and markets.

Throughout the day you’ll also have a chance to sample local delicacies like camels milk ice cream, street food snacks and local tea. 

Cost: $ Duration: 3 hours

The best combined Dubai City Tour: Old and Modern Dubai City Tour

This Dubai city tour perfectly blends the Dubai of old and new and will lead you through some of the city’s most famous sights.

You’ll visit ​​The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah, and The Atlantis to view the famous modern architecture and stop for a photo or two.

Then you’ll delve into Dubai’s history and culture with trips to the Gold and Spice Souks, the famous and ornate Blue Mosque, take an abra (water taxi), and visit the Al Khayma Heritage House in Al Fahidi Historical District. 

Cost: $ Duration: 4-5 hours

The best Burj Khalifa activities in Dubai

Burj khalifa: level 124 & 125.

Standing at a breathtaking 830m the Burj Khalifa holds the impressive feat of being the world’s tallest building, so it’s no surprise we’d say that this is a must-visit activity in Dubai.

With this ticket, you’ll take the world’s fastest elevator (this building isn’t short on records) and zip up to the 124th and 125th floors.

Here you’ll be able to take in a 360-degree view of the city and learn all about the building and its architecture. 

Cost: $ Duration: 1.5 hours

Dubai Burj Khalifa Tour: Level 124, 125 and 148

If reaching the heady heights of the 124th and 125th floors wasn’t enough, why not add floor 148 in too?

This ticket will allow you to scoot right past the elevator lines and give you access to exclusive observation decks from which to take in the city.

Visiting the 148th floor will make you feel like you’re on top of the world, and give you a panoramic viewpoint.

Our top tip?

Book a tour at sunset so you can take in that magnificent sight and even watch the synchronized fountain show.

Cost: $$ Duration: 1.5 hours

The best activities in Dubai for kids and families

Atlantis aquaventure & lost chambers aquarium.

Another great activity to do in Dubai for kids is The Lost Chambers Aquarium, where you’ll find over 65,000 marine animals to gaze at in awe as you wander through.

For big and little kids alike Atlantis Aquaventure is like the water park of your dreams with slides for every thrill level, Dubai’s longest lazy river, and a 500m stretch of private beach. 

Cost: $ Valid: 1 day

Dolphin Dip and Play at Atlantis

If you’ve seen all the marine life at the aquarium, you might be wishing you could get up close and personal with some of them, good news – you can! With this experience, you’ll spend 30 minutes getting to touch and play with dolphins at the Aquaventure Waterpark.

Not only will you have a chance to splash around with these amazing creatures, you’ll also enjoy same-day access to the waterpark so you can get your kicks on the water slides too. 

Ski Dubai Snow Classic Pass

You might be in the middle of a desert but in this playground of a city, you can still get your winter thrills!

This full-day pass offers you unlimited access to the rides so you can try whatever you like and zip downhill to your heart’s desire.

Become a giant snowball in a Zorb Ball, pick up some speed on a tubing run or bobsled, ride the chairlift right up to the top and real adrenalin junkies can try their hand at the Mountain Thriller ride, reaching speeds of up to 45kph!

The most cultural and authentic activities to do in Dubai

Private history tour in the old city.

This private tour will tell you everything you need to know about the city’s cultural, religious, and historical past.

Here you’ll travel to the roads of Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood as you take in its varied history, winding streets, and wind towers.

You’ll visit the Coffee Museum, Dubai Museum, and the Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House before you head across Dubai Creek to finish with some shopping at the Spice and Gold Souks.

Half-Day Street Food Tour

There’s more to this city than just glitzy all-day lunch brunches, and this Dubai city tour will let you discover its traditional food scene.

You’ll have a chance to understand the varied cultures that makeup Dubai as you sample Indian street food near the temple, taste vegetarian delights, pick up spices to take home in the souk, snack on the famous sweet Dubai dates, sit down with locals and try Lebanese cuisine and finally head down a narrow alley for dinner in a traditional restaurant. 

Cost: $$ Duration: 4 hours

The best luxurious activities to do in Dubai

The most epic luxury activity to do in dubai: hot air balloon ride .

Sure you can see the desert from a car or a dune buggy, or you could take to the skies!

You might not be able to track down a magic carpet but surely a hot air balloon ride is the next best thing.

On this adventure, you’ll float high above the dunes and take in the sunrise from your incredible vantage point.

Once you’ve come back down to earth, you’ll be driven back to the Margham desert where you’ll tuck into a traditional Arabic breakfast.

Cost: $$$ Duration: 4 hours

Luxury Yacht Charter from Dubai Marina

Get a taste of the rich and famous lifestyle by chartering your own luxury yacht as you take to the waters of the Persian Gulf.

With enough room for up to ten people, you can gather your nearest and dearest and live it up as you take in the Dubai cityscape, floating past buildings like Atlantis The Palm, Burj Al Arab, Sheikh Palace and Jumeirah Beach.

You can book either a day or night cruise so you just have to decide if you want to tan or take in the bright city lights. 

Cost: $$$ Duration: 2-6 hours

22-Minute Helicopter Flight

Another chance to take to the air, this time by more modern means as you zip up unto the sky on a scenic helicopter flight.

You’ll have a chance to see Dubai as never before, soaring high above the city’s famous sights, one of the most luxury activities to do in Dubai.

From your birds-eye-view, you’ll take in iconic buildings such as the Burj al Arab, the Burj Khalifa, and the Palm Jumeirah.

You’ll also be able to spot some of the city’s older monuments as you fly above the Al Fahidi and the famous Spice and Gold Souks. 

Cost: $$$ Duration: 22 minutes 

The best water activities to do in Dubai

Once you’ve exhausted yourself pacing the souks and malls of Dubai and you’ve visited the tops of all the tall buildings, you’ll probably want a well-deserved break.

What better way to relax than on a yacht?

You’ll leave the Dubai Marina and head out to see on your luxury yacht where you’ll drift past some of the city’s most landmarks.

If you join a morning trip you’ll be treated to a delicious breakfast whereas lunch and afternoon tours will tuck into a hearty barbecue, making it one of the most popular tours in Dubai.

Cost: $ Duration: 2-3 hours 

Dubai Speedboat Tour

For those looking for a bit more of a high-speed thrill on the water, one popular activity to do in Dubai is enjoying an exciting speedboat tour.

On your speedy vessel you zip through the waters and take in all the iconic landmarks Dubai has to offer – and your speedboat is the perfect place to get a picture in front of all of them.

You’ll have a chance to see The Dubai Eye Wheel, The Harbour Project, Dubai Rulers Private Island and The Burj Al Arab amongst much, much more. 

Cost: $ Duration: 1.5 hours 

Sunset Cruise on Traditional Boat

If you want to take in a boat cruise but are after something a little more authentic, this is a fun activity to do in Dubai.

On this outing, you’ll hop aboard an abra, which is a traditional wooden water taxi, to drift along the waters of the Dubai Water Canal.

You’ll watch the sunset as you enjoy commentary on your surroundings and learn more about the city, all whilst tucking into an Emirati high tea and sampling treats like legaimat, cehbab, Basboosat al Fostaq and much more.

Cost: $ Duration: 1 hour

More information to complement your excursions in Dubai

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

Touring and doing excursions around Dubai can be fun and comfortable but, do you wish to travel independently? Check:

• Dubai & UAE ultimate itinerary
• Independent travel in Oman

Additionally, check this list of the best hotels per area of the city in Dubai

Remember that in Dubai, the internet is censored. Check:

• How to find the right VPN in Dubai

Traveling to Oman? Check

• Where to stay in Muscat
• Best excursions and activities in Oman
• Travel to Oman – Independent guide

Traveling to Saudi Arabia? Here you can find all my  articles and guides to Saudi Arabia

Iran is so close to Oman, are you going there? Remember to check then  my tips for visiting Iran

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Dubai Tours

The 10 Best Dubai Tours

Dubai desert safari.

One of the most quintessential Dubai tours is a desert safari, taking you far from the glittering city lights. This is your chance to experience a slice of true wilderness, with sand stretching as far as the eye can see.

You’ll bounce through the desert on a jeep tour , doing a spot of dune bashing to get the heart pumping. Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife like the Arabian oryx and sand gazelles. These adventurous excursions usually stop somewhere like Al Khayma Camp for a smorgasbord of activities such as sandboarding , camel riding , and falconry . You will return to Dubai after a traditional desert feast.

Burj Khalifa Tour

You can’t leave Dubai without visiting the tallest building in the world! At 2,723 feet, the Burj Khalifa undoubtedly has the best views in town from its observation deck on the 125 th floor. You can ascend the tower and see the whole of Dubai sprawling below so don’t forget your camera! Head up to the outdoor terrace on level 148 for even more jaw-dropping panoramas before taking the elevator back down.

For the ultimate Burj Khalifa experience, visit at sunset to see the city come to life in the golden rays. Or, to avoid the crowds, early mornings are best.

Palm Jumeirah Speedboat Tour

Palm Jumeirah is the famous tree-shaped archipelago that’s home to flash hotels and luxurious residences belonging to the rich and famous. It’s one of the most iconic islands in the world, and the best way to see it is from the water

The top Dubai tours of Palm Jumeirah are by speedboat, allowing you to see the island up close in a short space of time. You’ll enjoy a fast-paced ride through the ocean, with the Dubai city skyline providing a glamorous backdrop. See if you can spot the Burj Al Arab and the Ain Wheel dominating the scene.

Dhow Cruise in Dubai Marina

Dhows are the traditional wooden boats that have been sailing up and down Dubai’s coast and creeks for years. It’s the most romantic way to travel on the water and gives a unique perspective of some of the top city sights.

For the best views, enjoy a cruise along Dubai Marina , which is surrounded by futuristic architecture and sleek superyachts. This is a place where the old-world rubs shoulders with modern-day life, creating an intoxicating experience that you won’t find anywhere else. Some tours put on dinner and entertainment to take your journey to the next level.

Dubai City Tours

Dubai tours come in all shapes and sizes, with the most popular ones concentrating on some of the city’s major landmarks. You’ll learn about the history of Dubai from your expert local guide as you visit all those places you’ve heard about in the guidebooks.

In modern Dubai, you will discover gems like the Burj Al Arab, Dubai Frame , and the Atlantis Hotel, with plenty of photo stops at each. Over in old Dubai, it’s time for the souks, where gold and spices are the stars of the show. The final touches are the beautiful Blue Mosque and the Al Khayma Heritage House.

Quad Biking & ATV Tours in Dubai

Head off into the desert for a day of adrenaline and adventure on a thrilling Dubai quad biking tour. You’ll experience the magic of the wild on an intimate level and get a taste for life on safari. After a comfortable transfer in an air-conditioned vehicle, it’s time to pull on your helmet and prepare for a rip-roaring ride.

For wildlife spotting and breathtaking scenery, choose a morning ATV excursion, and make the most of the cooler temperatures. Meanwhile, if you’d like to include dinner under the stars while watching traditional Emirati belly dancing, then the evening jaunts are just the ticket.

Camel Riding Tours

If there’s one thing that every visitor to Dubai wants to do, it’s camel riding. The city is a desert oasis after all! Don’t worry if you haven’t tried it before, once you’re onboard your trusty mount, all you need to do is sit back and enjoy the views.

These fun Dubai tours are all about enjoying fresh air and tranquility as you plod silently through the sandy sea. Rolling dunes and hardy wildlife often feature, and on some trips, you’ll get to visit a traditional Bedouin camp for coffee and a meal. Opt for the sunrise ride for a cooler desert experience.

Abu Dhabi Tours from Dubai

Abu Dhabi is just 150 kilometers south of Dubai, so if you have a day to spare, it’s well worth paying a visit to the capital of the United Arab Emirates. The skyscrapers here are just as sparkly as the ones in Dubai, but the city feels a little more authentic than its glamorous sister.

On your day tour you’ll explore the magnificent marble halls of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and see the flamboyant Presidential Palace of Qsar Al Watan . Other highlights include ancient artwork in the Louvre Museum and theme park thrills at Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros. World .

Hot Air Balloon Rides over Dubai Desert

There’s no better way to appreciate the desert than by taking a hot air balloon flight over the sea of sand (although helicopter tours are a close second!). These epic Dubai tours will show you just how vast the wilderness is, with the dunes looking like tiny waves far down below.

You’ll start out early in the morning to catch the sunrise flooding the desert, before drifting silently overhead. Wildlife is often spotted at this time of day, so keep an eye out for gazelles and camels. Back down on earth, you’ll enjoy a tasty breakfast before heading back to the city.

Theme Parks & Aquariums

When it comes to theme parks and wildlife attractions in Dubai, there’s something different for every day of the month! Top pics include the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo , where you can come face to face with creatures of the deep. The whole family can plunge down slides at the Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark or meet their cartoon heroes at IMG Worlds of Adventure .

Back on dry land, adrenaline junkies will love visiting Ferrari World and Ski Dubai for some seriously speedy thrills. Or, for something a bit more relaxing, head to Miracle Garden for out-of-this-world floral displays and fairytale castles.

Looking for more tours?

Planning your visit to dubai, about dubai.

The glittering city in the desert has rapidly grown to be one of the most popular city break destinations in the world. Towering skyscrapers, boundless adrenaline activities, and luxury hotels in Dubai all combine to offer a vacation like no other.

Dining and entertainment are world-class, with cultural influences from around the globe. Attractions are reliably top of the range, with innovation and technology at the core of everything the city does. Yet beneath the gloss, you’ll also discover a rich local history as you enjoy one of the many Dubai tours that lift the lid on this ambitious urban oasis.

Good to know before arriving

The easiest and most efficient way of navigating the sprawling Dubai metropolis is by taxi which can be hailed on the street or arranged through your hotel. For shorter, central journeys the Dubai Metro is also a good option. Taking a hop-on hop-off bus tour around Dubai is a fun introduction to the city, with some great views from the top deck.

If it’s your first visit, we recommend booking a hotel in Dubai Creek, Downtown, or Dubai Marina for easy access to the main sights. Staying a few days? Then get a Dubai Explorer Pass for discounts on multiple attractions and Dubai tours.

Places and experiences that cannot be missed

Once you’ve had your fill of the iconic sights like Palm Jumeirah, the Burj Khalifa, and the Marina on the must-do Dubai tours, it’s time to explore a little deeper. Take a walking excursion around the old city to discover the real Dubai then enjoy a dinner cruise or food tour to learn about local cuisine. For a change of scenery, book a day trip to the Hatta Valley , Al Ain , or the dramatic Fjords of Musandam .

Dubai isn’t known for being cheap, but there are plenty of free things to do, including strolling around the Gold and Spice Souks and visiting the Camel Museum.

What are the best attractions in Dubai?

What are the best day trips from dubai, what are the best outdoor activities in dubai, what are the best museums in dubai, what are the best sightseeing tours in dubai, what are the best theme parks & aquariums in dubai, explore more, best places to visit in dubai, tours and things to do in dubai, best day trips from dubai.

9 Absolute Best Dubai Tours & Excursions (2024)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 6, 2024

When we first visited Dubai, I wasn’t really sure what to expect. It turned out to be a beautiful trip with plenty of variation to keep the whole family happy and entertained for 10 days.

Dubai has so much to offer for all types of tourists that it might be overwhelming to know what to see and do first, and especially if you are short on time. So in this post, we are highlighting the very best Dubai tours and guided day trips to help you get the most out of your stay in Dubai.

No matter if you are visiting Dubai for a week or just making a short stopover in Dubai , consider booking at least a few of these tours. It’s the best way to see multiple facets of this extremely diverse city.

This is just a small hand-picked selection of the most popular Dubai tours and activities based on our personal experience, customer reviews, and price/quality ratio. Out of thousands of available tours in Dubai, we chose the very best ones. It should help you to save time and research and get the most out of your time in this fascinating city. Take a look!

Best tours in Dubai:

• Burj Khalifa
• Dubai desert tours
• Water parks
• Dubai city tours
• Dubai Marina dinner cruises
• Sightseeing boat tours
• Camel rides
• Abu-Dhabi day trip from Dubai
• Other more unique activities in Dubai

Good to know: We recommend GetYourGuide for booking all your guided tours in Dubai because they have excellent customer service and the best cancelation policy on the market (better than anything you get if booking through other websites or directly).

In addition, I noticed on our recent trip that by booking via GetYourGuide and choosing to pay in our currency, we saved a lot of money on exchange rates.

These are the best tours in Dubai:

1. Burj Khalifa

If you visit just one place in Dubai, make it Burj Khalifa . This huge tower rising high in the middle of the desert symbolizes all that Dubai has become in such a short time. There are several options for Burj Khalifa tickets, but it’s a very popular attraction so make sure to book in advance.

• Burj Khalifa Tickets: Level 124 & 125 This is the most popular option when it comes to visiting Burj Khalifa – the entrance tickets to the 124th and 125th floors. Prices vary depending on the time of the day you visit (the hour around sunset is the most expensive as it allows you to see Dubai from above in daylight as well as in the dark). We opted for the later tour and night views and loved this experience!
• Burj Khalifa Tickets and Tour: Level 124, 125, and 148 . What makes this tour different from the first one is that you get to skip the lines, avoid the crowds and visit the 148th floor of the Burj Khalifa which includes access to the outdoor terrace of the world’s highest observation deck.

In addition, you also have all kinds of combination tickets that can save you some money and time. Here are some of the best-rated Burj Khalifa combo tours :

• Dubai City Tour with Burj Khalifa Experience .
• Night City Tour with Burj Khalifa Tickets .
• Burj Khalifa Ticket with 1-Way Transfer from Your Hotel . The one-way transfer gives you the flexibility to stay and explore the Dubai Mall area longer after visiting Burj Khalifa. Afterward, you can easily take a metro or a taxi to get back – here you can read more about Dubai public transport .

TIP: Just next to Burj Khalifa are the famous dancing fountains of Dubai . A popular way to see the music and light fountain show is from the water, by taking a traditional boat tour on the lake . We did this on a recent trip to Dubai and the whole family really enjoyed it.

2. Dubai Desert Tours

No visit to Dubai would be complete without a visit to the desert. Dune bashing in a 4WD is one of the most fun experiences you can have in Dubai, but there are so many ways to experience the desert…

From luxury private experiences to more touristy trips including camel rides, BBQ dinner under the stars, or a traditional dance performance… desert tours are a good way to experience a different side of Dubai.

Here are some of the most popular and best-rated Dubai desert tours, including the best Dubai desert safari deals:

• Dubai Red Dunes Premium Safari . This is by far the most popular of Dubai desert safari tours. It’s really catered for mass tourism, but when in Dubai, you have to experience all of this… We all loved the thrilling 4WD drive and the kids truly enjoyed the short camel ride, sandboarding, BBQ dinner, traditional Tanoura and belly dance shows, and all the other activities that came with this tour. There are many companies organizing a very similar tour in Dubai. The tour linked above has the very best customer reviews on all the major websites.
• Desert Adventure Safari, Quad Bike, Camel Ride & more . This is a more adventurous Dubai tour that includes all kinds of fun outdoor activities in the desert.
• Dubai Morning Safari: Red Dunes, Sandboarding & Camel Ride or Quad . This is a shorter version of the above tour (and organized by the same highly-rated tour company). It gives you the best experience of the desert (driving in the dunes) without all the other more tourist-oriented activities that you get in the evening. So if your main interest is to experience the Dubai desert, this might be a great option.
• Dubai Sunrise Balloon Flight with Breakfast & Falcon Photo . This tour offers a more luxurious and truly unique way to experience the Dubai desert. If your budget allows it, I wouldn’t hesitate!

3. Dubai Water Parks

Dubai has two major water parks – the Aquaventure at Atlantis The Palm and Wild Wadi near Burj Al Arab and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel.

The price of the two parks is about the same and I really cannot say which one is better. We visited Aquaventure and loved it. If our kids had been taller, we would have definitely tried both parks (many water slides have 120 cm (a bit less than 4ft) height limit, but there are still really nice water play areas for the younger kids too).

Whatever you decide, make sure to book your tickets in advance as they are much cheaper online than at the entrance of the park.

• Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark .
• Wild Wadi Waterpark .

TIP: It’s worth noting that the entrance to Aquaventure is included for all hotel guests of Atlantis The Palm. If your family really likes waterparks it might be worthwhile looking into booking this hotel. In a less busy season and for families with up to 2 kids this might be a great option. Unfortunately, recently, they really hiked up the prices of the hotel. In any case, it’s worth checking the availability and prices for Atlantis The Palm if you haven’t booked a hotel yet.

TIP: Consider checking the prices for a family stay at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel as well. Guests of this hotel enjoy complimentary access to Wild Wadi Waterpark. The same is true for the guests of Burj Al Arab Hotel , however, this luxury hotel is in a totally different price category…

READ ALSO: Tips & Tricks for Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark

4. Dubai City Sightseeing Tours

While you can see most of Dubai’s attractions individually, taking a city tour is a nice way to see all the main sights in a short time. We did a city tour one day at the beginning of our trip and it gave us a good overview of the city and the places that were potentially worth going back and exploring more.

There are several options for Dubai city tours, ranging from hop-on hop-off busses, guided city tours, and private tours… Some tours focus on the modern city, while some others bring you to the old town, or offer a combination of both…

Old Dubai is so very different than the modern parts most of the tourists visit. If you want to get a taste of more traditional Dubai, the way it was just a few decennia ago, don’t miss it!

Here are some of the best Dubai city tours:

• Old Dubai Culture, History, Souks & Street Food Walking Tour . This is one of the best tours of the historic Dubai. We recently did it and I can say that their itinerary and food choices were great.
• Half-Day Blue Mosque, Creeks & Souks Tour . This tour offers the quickest way to see some of the highlights you’d probably miss otherwise.
• Magical Dubai 8-Hour Tour with Burj Khalifa Experience. Similar tour to the previous one, but it’s longer and also includes tickets to Burj Khalifa and Dubai Aquarium.
• Dubai: Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour (1 to 7 Days) . This is a good way to see Dubai at your own pace.

5. Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise

Dubai Marina area is one of our favorites in the city. There are several ways to explore it: on foot, by bicycle, by water bus, or by boat.

The most popular option is the Dubai Marina cruise with dinner .

There are many companies running these tours. And yes, they are oriented toward tourists, but it’s a really nice experience. If you choose well, it may not cost that much more than just a regular dinner at the restaurant (check this post for more information about how much everything costs in Dubai ).

Here are some of the best-rated Dubai Marina tours:

• Dubai Marina Sightseeing Cruise – the most popular option for sightseeing.
• Luxury Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise – the most popular option for dinner.
• Alexandra Dhow Cruise in Dubai Marina is one of the best options we found when looking for a more local experience when we visited. The boat is a traditional Arabic wooden dhow and you get to see a live traditional Tanura dance performance as well. Once again, it’s tailored for tourists, but so is everything in Dubai.

We took this dinner cruise and really enjoyed it. There are many companies offering dhow dinner cruises, but most have really poor ratings. We chose this dinner cruise because of the good reviews and excellent price/quality ratio. It’s also one of the best options for families – kids under 6 travel free, and kids under 12 get a discount.

You can find similar dinner cruises on Dubai Creek as well. But we found that the Dubai Marina area is a much nicer and more spectacular place to be in the evening.

6. Dubai Sightseeing Boat Tours

Many sights of Dubai are best admired from the water. The best way to see the iconic sights like the Burj Al Arab, Atlantis Hotel, and the Palm Jumeirah, is by taking a boat.

Here are some of the best sightseeing boat tours in Dubai:

• Speedboat Tour: Marina, Atlantis, Palm & Burj Al Arab . This is the best-rated speedboat tours in Dubai. It’s a great way to see many landmarks in a short time.
• Dubai Private Sightseeing Tour by Luxury Boat . A highly-rated private luxury boat tour. Depending on the number of people in your group, this luxury option may not be much more expensive than a regular boat tour. Worth taking a look!
• Self-Drive Boat Trip . If you rather combine the thrills of riding your own speedboat and sightseeing, this is a great option for you. And don’t worry about not knowing where to go or how to steer the boat, a guide escorts you all the way.

7. Camel Ride Tours

The above desert tours only include a very short ride on the camel. If you are looking for a longer camel ride in Dubai desert, consider one of these highly-rated options.

However, be sure to check what’s included because longer camel tours are getting replaced by shorter rides.

• Desert Safari with Camel Ride .
• Sunset Camel Trek in the Desert . We opted for this tour on our most recent trip to Dubai and it was great and very well organized. The camel ride itself was long enough to enjoy it without getting too repetitive.

8. Abu-Dhabi Day Trip from Dubai

With a driving distance of just an hour and a half, Abu-Dhabi is a very popular day trip from Dubai. Here are the best-rated and the most popular options:

• Abu Dhabi Full-Day Sightseeing Tour from Dubai . This is the most popular/best-rated day tour to Abu-Dhabi.
• Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Mosque Half-Day Tour from Dubai . Great for those who want to see the main landmarks in just a few hours.
• Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi & Grand Mosque Day Trip from Dubai . If you want to visit the Abu-Dhabi Louvre Museum, this tour is the best option.
• Abu-Dhabi Highlights & Ferrari World . Combine a visit to the city with the Ferrari World theme park.

READ ALSO: Abu Dhabi Tour from Dubai (best tours + review of the tour we chose)

9. Other Great Activities in Dubai

Dubai is a truly unique place with so much going on in the city. The tours I listed above are very popular and really worth doing in order to see the best of Dubai. But if you have more time (and money) and are looking for something more extraordinary and unique , then take a look at some of these great activities in Dubai.

• Scenic Helicopter Flight .
• Hot Air Balloon Rides .
• Zip Line across the Marina .
• Parasailing .

So, these are the most popular types of tours and excursions that you can do in Dubai.

It’s really difficult to say which activity was our favorite as they are all so different. As a minimum, I recommend visiting the Burj Khalifa, taking a city tour that brings you to Old Dubai, taking a day trip to the Dubai desert, and at least one water park.

Have you been to Dubai? What were your favorite tours?

READ ALSO: Dubai Travel Tips

More tips for your trip to Dubai:

• Costs: How Expensive is Dubai
• Clothing: What to Wear in Dubai
• How to plan a trip: Dubai Itinerary for up to 1 Week
• Fun facts: Interesting Facts About Dubai
• Getting around: Dubai Public Transport
• Things to do: Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai
• With kids: Things to Do in Dubai for the Whole Family
• Where we stayed: Review of DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Beach Hotel

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Mike Sagalovich

Monday 22nd of January 2024

Thank you for the great information! We are staying 3 days in Dubai and 3 days in Abu Dhabi. Do you have specific recommendation for Abu Dhabi? Thank you!

Hi Mike, in Abu Dhabi, a few things are must-see: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Royal Palace, and Louvre Abu Dhabi. If visiting with kids, don't miss Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld (there are other parks as well - see Yas Island ticket options). Just like in Dubai, there are also lots of great tours that visit several of the main highlights in a day, plus desert tours, etc. You can find the best selection here. Hope this helps. Have a great trip!

Kathye Jinks

Tuesday 28th of February 2023

Thanks very much for the most informative information. I'm so excited and can't wait to visit Dubai. You have given me so many choices.

Wednesday 1st of March 2023

Glad to help, Kathye. Have a great time in Dubai!

Friday 4th of March 2022

WOW Thank you so much for the information Really interested in all these tours, How do I go about it on getting a guide to make our reservations?

Monday 7th of March 2022

The links to the tours are literally in the post, Gladys. It's really easy and simple to make your own reservations.

Monday 9th of December 2019

Hi!! Im going to Dubai next February 2020 just for five days? Do you recommend to buy tours in advance or can get them in Dubai cheaper?

Thank you for you advice

Tuesday 10th of December 2019

Hi Monica, my experience is that booking tours in advance you always get a better deal. First - you can compare reviews and prices and also tour itineraries and pick one that's best for you. Whereas in the hotel, they often will try to sell you tours where they get the highest commission, not necessarily the best ones. Even once you're at a destination, you can still always book online, and - in most cases - you'll find better deals. Enjoy your trip!

Wednesday 15th of May 2019

I'd like to book a short (4 hour) city tour for my wife and I during a flight layover on 7/12/19

Hi Tom, we are just a travel blog and don't run any tours ourselves. Here is a Dubai layover tour that I think would fit your requirements, just make sure that you indeed have 4-5 hours + time for leaving the airport and getting back. I think that a total layover time of 7-8 hours is about the minimum you need. Hope this helps.

30 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Dubai

Written by Jess Lee Updated Mar 21, 2024 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Author Jess Lee is a travel writer who has specialized and lived in the Middle East for over 15 years.

Glitzy Dubai is the United Arab Emirates' holiday hot spot. This city of high-rises and shopping malls has transformed itself from a desert outpost to a destination du-jour, where tourists flock for sales bargains, sunshine, and family fun.

Dubai is famous for contemporary sightseeing attractions such as the Burj Khalifa (the world's tallest building) and shopping malls that come complete with mammoth aquariums and indoor ski slopes. But this city has many cultural highlights and things to do, as well as all the glamorous modern add-ons.

Take a wander around the Al Fahidi quarter, and you'll discover the Dubai of old, then cruise along Dubai Creek in a traditional dhow, and you'll soon realize there's more to this city than its flashy veneer.

Learn more about the best places to visit with our list of the top attractions and things to do in Dubai.

Shoot to the Top of Burj Khalifa

View the dubai fountain display, sneak in some shopping at dubai mall, visit an underwater world at dubai aquarium, cool off at atlantis aquaventure waterpark, head out into the desert, take afternoon tea in the burj al-arab, ski indoors at mall of the emirates' ski dubai, explore dubai creek, wander through colorful dubai miracle garden, walk through history in al fahidi quarter (old dubai), experience global village's culture & entertainment, cruise around madinat jumeirah on an abra, soak up the sun on jumeirah beach, discover uae history at dubai museum, snap sunset pics at dubai frame, swim & sunbathe at la mer beach, family time at motiongate & legoland in dubai parks, tour jumeirah mosque, take to the water at kite beach & umm suqeim beach, stroll sheikh zayed road, fuel up on thrills & spills in img worlds of adventure, haggle in the souks of deira, skydive over dubai's palm jumeirah, enjoy world-class theater at dubai opera, savor a nature break in dubai butterfly garden, explore local culture in the heritage and diving village, spot flamingos at ras al khor wildlife sanctuary, view traditional architecture at sheikh saeed al-maktoum house, browse cutting-edge art in alserkal avenue, best things to do with kids in dubai, where to stay in dubai for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to dubai, map of tourist attractions in dubai, best time to visit dubai, united arab emirates.

Highlight: The world's tallest building and Dubai's best panoramic city views

Dubai's landmark building and major tourist attraction is the Burj Khalifa , which at 829.8 meters is the tallest building in the world and the most famous of the city's points of interest.

For most visitors, a trip to the observation deck on the 124th floor here is a must-do while in the city. The views across the city skyline from this bird's-eye perspective are simply staggering.

The slick observation deck experience includes a multimedia presentation on both Dubai and the building of the Burj Khalifa (completed in 2010) before a high-speed elevator whizzes you up to the observation deck for those 360-degree views out across the skyscrapers to the desert on one side and the ocean on the other.

Nighttime visits are particularly popular with photographers due to Dubai's famous city-lights panoramas.

Buy your Burj Khalifa "At the Top" Entrance Ticket in advance to avoid long line-ups, especially if you are planning to visit on a weekend.

Highlight: A family-friendly evening entertainment spectacle

Wrapping around the Burj Khalifa are the gardens of Burj Park, with walkways dotted with modern art sculptures. Burj Park is where you come to see the Dubai Fountain display on Burj Lake.

Modeled on the famous Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas, this is the world's tallest performing fountain, with water displays shooting up to 150 meters high into the air.

The 30-minute-long displays take place regularly after dark, and although the display itself is free, there are entrance charges to access the add-on experiences.

The floating platform of the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk is one of the most popular experiences for close-up views, while there are also opportunities to take an abra (traditional wooden boat) onto Burj Lake to see the fountains from the water.

Highlights: Dubai Aquarium, plenty of family activities, dining options, and brand-name shopping

Dubai Mall is the city's premier mall and one of the city's best places to visit for a day of shopping and indoor activities to keep the kids busy. It provides entry to the Burj Khalifa as well as the Dubai Aquarium.

There is also an ice-skating rink, gaming zone, and cinema complex if you're looking for more entertainment options.

The shopping and eating are endless, and there are nearly always special events such as live music and fashion shows within the mall. The most famous of these are the annual Dubai Shopping Festival in January and February and the Dubai Summer Surprises Festival in July and August.

Location: Doha Road, just off Sheikh Zayed Road

Highlights: An awe-inspiring introduction to the underwater world

One of the city's top tourist attractions, the Dubai Aquarium houses 140 species of sea life in the huge suspended tank on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall.

Although there is free viewing from the mall, the highlight of a visit here is entering the Underwater Zoo, with its three-story high, 270-degree views along the length of the glass-panel tunnels.

As well as viewing the vast amount of marine life, the Dubai Aquarium offers plenty of aquatic experiences and things to do for visitors who want a close-up encounter with some of the aquarium's inhabitants, from hand-feeding eagle rays to diving with reef and tiger sharks.

Address: Dubai Mall, Sheikh Zayed Road

Highlight: Water-based theme park fun for a day devoted to family entertainment

Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark , based at Atlantis, The Palm on the Palm Jumeirah—Dubai's famous man-made island development—is a great place to cool off after a few days of hectic shopping and sightseeing.

The waterslide action here is excellent and world-class, with the Aquaconda, the world's longest water slide; a nine-story-tall slide, aptly named the Leap of Faith; and water coaster rides.

There's also underwater safaris using Sea TREK helmets; a dedicated water play area for smaller children with slides; and for when all your energy has been used up, a 700-meter sweep of white-sand beach.

Address: Crescent Road, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Highlight: See the UAE's dramatic interior of sweeping dunes on Dubai's best day trip option

You don't have to travel far from Dubai's coastal skyline of skyscrapers to reach some of the UAE's desertscapes of rippling dunes.

Both the dune fields and desert of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and the orange-hued dunes of Maleha (actually in the Emirate of Sharjah ) are within day-tripping distance of the city.

Desert adventure tours can combine a range of activities, from sandboarding, camel rides, and 4WD safaris to traditional Arabian falconry displays and desert dinners under the stars. There are also options for overnight camping under the stars.

The typical tour itinerary, giving visitors a taster of desert life, is easily slotted into even a short trip to Dubai, taking around six hours door to door, with a mid-afternoon departure from the city.

The Dubai Desert 4x4 Safari offers a half-day desert adventure and includes a camel ride, sandboarding lessons, a sunset barbecue, and a belly dancing show.

For a less rushed tour experience, choose one of the companies that operate inside the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, where trips can include wildlife drives to spot the reserve's free-roaming herds of gazelles and, if you're lucky, Arabian oryx.

Highlights: Treat yourself to one of Dubai's most famous dining experiences

The Burj Al-Arab is the world's tallest hotel, standing 321 meters high on its own artificial island on the Dubai coastline.

Designed to resemble a billowing dhow sail, the exterior of the building is lit up by a choreographed, colored lighting show at night.

Decadent in every way possible, the Burj Al-Arab is one of the most expensive hotels in the world, with the most luxurious suites costing more than $15,000 for one night.

For those without unlimited credit, the way to experience the over-the-top opulence is to book afternoon tea at Sahn Eddar (a minimum spend is required) in the soaring atrium lounge.

Non-guests can also book dinner at the Ristorante L'Olivo at Al-Mahara where floor-to-ceiling glass panels in the dining room walls allow you to view sea life while you eat, or you can enjoy French and Italian classics for lunch or dinner with city vistas at the Michelin starred Al Muntaha .

Address: Jumeirah Road, Dubai

Highlight: Cool off from the desert heat with some winter sports then shop till you drop in the mall

Mall of the Emirates is one of the city's most famous malls, with the spectacular (and surreal) Ski Dubai facility inside.

The indoor ski slope is complete with chairlifts and a penguin enclosure, all at a continuous temperature of -4 degrees Celsius.

There's also a cinema complex and a family entertainment center with a whole host of rides aimed at both the big and small.

The shopping opportunities are boundless, as are the eating options, offering every conceivable world cuisine.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai

Highlight: Abra rides across the creek for city skyline views

Dubai Creek separates the city into two towns, with Deira to the north and Bur Dubai to the south.

The creek has been an influential element in the city's growth, first attracting settlers here to fish and pearl dive. Small villages grew up alongside the creek as far back as 4,000 years ago, while the modern era began in the 1830s when the Bani Yas tribe settled in the area.

The creek is where you come to capture city views from the water, either by taking a trip on one of the many dhows that have been restored as tourist cruise boats or by hopping on an abra (small wooden ferry) between the ferry points on the creek's Bur Dubai and Deira banks.

On the Bur Dubai side of the creek, rubbing up against the Bastakia neighborhood, the waterfront has been regenerated as the Al Seef district, with a waterfront promenade backed by traditional coral-block and limestone buildings, a floating market, and shops selling crafts. It's a great place for a stroll with excellent water views.

Farther southeast down the creek, on the Deira bank just north of Al-Maktoum Bridge, is the Dhow Wharfage. It's still used by small traders from across the Gulf who sail their dhows onward to Kuwait, Iran, Oman, India, and down to Africa's horn.

This tiny remnant of Dubai's traditional economy is a fascinating place to wander around and watch cargo being loaded and unloaded on and off the dhows.

At the southeastern end of Dubai Creek, just before the creek joins with Dubai Canal, is the newly developed Dubai Creek Harbor with a waterfront marina walkway, which offers excellent vistas of the city skyline.

Highlight: Colorful photography options amid Dubai's most creative gardens

This is the zaniest garden ever. Not content with constructing the world's largest buildings and malls, Dubai has created the world's largest flower garden. Dubai Miracle Garden spans 2,000 square meters and is home to a reputed 100 million flowers.

Everything that can be covered with flowers has been, from twee English-style cottages to windmills and trucks. There's even a flower version of the Burj Khalifa.

Stroll the walkways and enjoy the riot of color and the wacky flower displays.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Rd, Al Barsha

Highlight: Admire Dubai's vernacular Gulf architecture amid the lanes of the tiny old town quarter

The Al Fahidi Quarter (previously known, and sometimes still referred to as the Bastakia neighborhood) was built in the late 19th century to be the home of wealthy Persian merchants who dealt mainly in pearls and textiles and were lured to Dubai because of the tax-free trading and access to Dubai Creek.

Al Fahidi occupies the eastern portion of Bur Dubai along the creek, and the coral and limestone buildings here, many with walls topped with wind-towers, have been excellently preserved.

Wind-towers provided the homes here with an early form of air conditioning—the wind trapped in the towers was funneled down into the houses. Persian merchants likely transplanted this architectural element (common in Iranian coastal houses) from their home country to the Gulf.

Lined with distinct Arabian architecture, the narrow lanes are highly evocative of a bygone, and much slower, age in Dubai's history.

Inside the district, you'll find the Majlis Gallery , with its collection of traditional Arab ceramics and furniture (housed in a wind-tower), and the Al Serkal Cultural Foundation with a shop, café, and rotating art exhibitions (located in one of the historic buildings).

Highlight: Evening entertainment hub with a global cultural focus

From October through April, this entertainment park provides family-friendly entertainment themed around taking visitors on a journey around the world.

Global Village's 26 country pavilions, ranging from Iraq to Japan and Russia to South Korea, each offer an individual experience of that country's culture, entertainment, and heritage. It's a unique option in the city for evening entertainment for families with little ones in tow.

As well as the pavilions, there are plentiful dining and shopping options on-site. Younger members of the family will enjoy the fun-fair-style Carnaval with plenty of rides, such as bumper cars, carousels, Swiss swings, and a big wheel, along with faster rides and a roller coaster.

Address: Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Road, Dubai

Highlight: Scenic canal cruises on traditional abra boats for easygoing sightseeing

The development complex of Madinat Jumeirah is a dining and retail district with a couple of five-star hotels, all set along the palm-tree-fringed banks of an artificial canal network.

All of Madinat Jumeirah has been styled to mimic traditional Gulf architecture, with wind towers and mashrabiya detailing.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah here offers easygoing shopping, with a large variety of traditional craftwork and souvenirs from the Gulf and across the wider Middle East, but the main reason to head here is to hop on an abra (small wooden ferry) and cruise down the canal.

Abras leave regularly from Souk Madinat Jumeirah's promenade and loop around the waterway, providing plenty of photo opportunities of the lush gardens and traditional architecture of Madinat Jumeirah, with the tall swooping sail of the Burj Al Arab in the background.

Address: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud Street, Dubai

Highlight: Dubai beach life summed up with everything you need at your fingertips

This long, wide strip of sandy white bliss is the number one beach destination for Dubai visitors .

Some of Dubai's most popular beach resorts are strung out all along its length, making this one of the most popular places to stay for visitors who want to make hitting the beach a major part of their Dubai stay.

The large areas of the beach have excellent facilities, with plenty of sun loungers, restaurants, lifeguards patrolling the stretches designated for swimming, and water sports operators offering jet skiing, kayak rental, parasailing, and boat rides.

This is a safe beach choice for families traveling with tots, as the turquoise water of the Gulf lapping the shore is shallow and calm.

Address: Dubai Marina, Dubai

Highlight: Delve behind the high-rise facade to discover Dubai's heritage

Dubai's excellent museum is housed in the Al-Fahidi Fort, built in 1787 to defend Dubai Creek. The fort's walls are built out of traditional coral blocks and held together with lime. The upper floor is supported by wooden poles, and the ceiling is constructed from palm fronds, mud, and plaster.

In its history, the fort has served as a residence for the ruling family, a seat of government, garrison, and prison. Restored in 1971 (and again extensively in 1995), it is now the city's premier museum.

The entrance has a fascinating exhibition of old maps of the Emirates and Dubai, showing the mammoth expansion that hit the region after the oil boom. The courtyard is home to several traditional boats and a palm-leaf house with an Emirati wind-tower. The right-hand hall features weaponry, and the left-hand hall showcases Emirati musical instruments.

Below the ground floor are display halls with exhibits and dioramas covering various aspects of traditional Emirati life (including pearl fishing and Bedouin desert life), as well as artifacts from the 3,000- to 4,000-year-old graves at Al Qusais archaeological site.

Address: Al-Fahidi Street, Al-Fahidi

Highlights: Aerial vistas of the modern cityscape below and galleries focused on Dubai's history

Sitting slap-bang between Dubai's older neighborhoods clustered around the creek and the city's modern sprawl, this ginormous 150-meter-high picture frame is one of Dubai's latest sights.

Inside Dubai Frame , a series of galleries whisk you through the city's history and explore Emirati heritage before you travel up to the Sky Deck, where there are fantastic panoramas of both old and new Dubai to be snapped on the viewing platforms.

Afterwards check out Future Dubai gallery, which imagines what a futuristic vision of the city will look like.

Address: Zabeel Park, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Road

Highlight: Take a day off sightseeing and head to the white sand for a relaxed break beside the sea

Backed by a fringe of palm trees, the stretch of La Mer Beach in Jumeirah is an easygoing spot for a full day of sun and sea.

Water sports operators here offer Jet Ski trips, boating, fly-boarding, and kayaking for beachgoers who itch to get off the sand, but for those who simply want to sloth out between swimming, there's plenty of sun lounger rental and a wide variety of cafés and restaurants just a hop from the sand for snacking and full meals.

La Mer is a sheltered bay with tranquil water, so it's a safe choice for both families and less-confident swimmers. Like all of Dubai's main beaches, it is regularly patrolled by lifeguards during the day.

If the sea and sand aren't enough, at the beach's northeast point, you'll find Laguna Waterpark, with several waterslides, a lazy river, and a surf pool.

Address: Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah

Highlight: Family-centered fun is the focus at these interconnected theme parks

At Dubai Parks and Resorts , your entertainment needs are all rolled together into one location. The only problem here is choosing what you want to do.

This mammoth project incorporates a swag of world-class theme parks providing something for everyone, whatever your age.

Motiongate takes its theme from Hollywood productions, with rides based around movie blockbusters; Bollywood Parks brings the world of India's famous movie industry alive on its rides; and Legoland Dubai and Legoland Waterpark provide younger visitors with a fun-packed day out on its interactive rides, water slides, and wave pool.

The district's attached Riverland Dubai dining hub means that there's no need to leave after you've exhausted yourself with theme park pursuits, as there's plenty of evening entertainment here as well.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Jebel Ali

Highlight: Gain greater insights into Islam on a tour of Dubai's most famous mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is considered by many to be the most beautiful of Dubai's mosques. An exact copy of Cairo's Al-Azhar Mosque, which is eight times its size, the Jumeirah Mosque is a fine example of Islamic architecture.

This stone structure is built in the medieval Fatimid tradition, with two minarets that display the subtle details in the stonework. It is particularly attractive in the evening when lit with floodlights.

The Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Centre for Cultural Understanding (which also runs a program of tours, lectures, Arabic classes, and cultural meals) organizes guided tours of the mosque designed to try to foster a better understanding of the Muslim faith.

Tours begin at 10am daily, except Fridays.

Address: Jumeirah Road

Highlight: Learn to kitesurf on one of Dubai's best water sports beaches

Thanks to its surf and prevailing wind, the northern section of Umm Suqeim Beach is Dubai's top spot for kitesurfing.

The beach is home to an array of water sports operators offering equipment hire, as well as kitesurfing lessons, along with paddleboarding and kayak rental.

This long stretch of yellow-sand beach sweeps south along the coast (becoming Umm Suqeim Beach), with plenty of space for sunbathers looking to lap up a lazy day of swimming and soaking up the rays on the sand and excellent facilities and dining choices. There are good views of the Burj Al Arab from the southern end of the beach.

While in the Jumeirah area, it's well worth brushing off the sand for an hour to visit the Majlis Ghorfat Um Al-Sheef just a three-kilometer hop from the beach. Built in 1955, this was the summer residence of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed al-Maktoum.

The residence, made out of gypsum and coral block, has been restored and maintains much of the original beautiful decor, giving you a better understanding of the opulent lifestyle of Dubai's rulers.

The Majlis Gardens feature a reproduction of an impressive Arab irrigation system, and many shady date palms.

Address: Jumeirah Road, Jumeirah, Dubai

Highlight: Take in central Dubai's skyscraper views from ground-level

Sheikh Zayed Road is the main thoroughfare running through Dubai's modern downtown business district.

This wide, eight-lane highway is rimmed with towering glass, chrome, and steel high-rises along its entire length. It's one of the best on-the-ground vantage points for Dubai's famed skyscraper views.

Main attractions are along, or just off, the strip between the roundabout and the first intersection, and most of Dubai's famous malls are located along the road's route.

The Dubai World Trade Tower has an observation deck on its top floor, which offers visitors panoramic views (a cheaper option than the Burj Khalifa), and the Gold and Diamond Park (Sheikh Zayed Road) is a one-stop shop for jewelry lovers, with 118 manufacturers and 30 retailers all under one roof.

Highlights: Adrenaline-packed rides and hours of fun for kids of all ages

The IMG Worlds of Adventure theme park, near Global Village, is immersive entertainment at its finest and has thrills and spills for both kids and big kids.

With one zone devoted entirely to Marvel's iconic characters; another to dinosaur-themed rides; and a zone where the Cartoon Network takes the helm, with gentler rides and activities for younger children, there's something here for every age.

Whether you want to help the Avengers battle Ultron, scare yourself silly in a haunted house, or join Spider-Man as he swings through the city, this is heaven for families looking for a fun-filled day out.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Dubai

Highlight: Shop the traditional way amid the heritage souks of Deira

Deira lies on the northern bank of Dubai Creek and the winding streets here unveil the melting pot of different nationalities that have come to call Dubai home. On the shore, ancient dhows load and unload with modern banks, hotels, and office buildings as a backdrop.

For travelers, Deira is most famous for its traditional souks (markets), which bustle with shoppers at all times of the day.

Deira Gold Souk is world-renowned as the largest gold bazaar in the world.

The Deira Spice Souk sells every imaginable spice, with stalls overflowing with bags of frankincense, cumin, paprika, saffron, sumac, and thyme, as well as the fragrant oud wood, rose water, and incense.

The fish market provides a much less touristy experience.

While in the district, culture lovers shouldn't miss two of Deira's finely restored architectural gems. Heritage House was built in 1890 as the home of a wealthy Iranian merchant and later became the home of Sheik Ahmed bin Dalmouk (a famous pearl merchant in Dubai). Today, it's a great chance to see the interior of a traditional family home.

The Al-Ahmadiya School, constructed in 1912, is the oldest school in Dubai and is now a museum of public education.

Highlight: Get the best aerial views of the city with Dubai's best thrill-seeker activity

For the ultimate sightseeing adrenaline rush while you're in the city, tandem-skydive over Dubai from Skydive Dubai's Palm Drop Zone.

There are bird's-eye views of the city's skyscraper coastline, Dubai Marina, and the artificial islands of Palm Jumeirah, all the way down the 3,900-meter-high plunge.

The entire experience takes around 90 minutes and includes the flight; an instructor you'll be harnessed to during the skydive; and a skydiving camera operator, who'll take pictures during your dive.

If you prefer desert dune scenery, Skydive Dubai also operates a separate tandem-skydiving experience in the desert, about 35 kilometers out of the city.

Skydiving in Dubai is an activity you need to book as far in advance as possible due to limited numbers and the high popularity of the experience.

Highlight: Enjoy the best of Dubai's cultural life while on your trip

For nighttime attractions, look no further. Opened in mid-2016, Dubai's classy new opera building is the centerpiece of the waterfront district in downtown Dubai and is a major cultural hub and main entertainment venue.

The Dubai Opera hosts a year-round program of famous musical theater productions, concerts by world-class musicians, opera, ballet, and classical music, as well as smaller productions, comedy nights, and concerts.

The 2,000-seat theater building itself is an astonishing piece of architectural mastery and one of Dubai's new landmarks, with its highly-contemporary glass and steel walls jutting out over the waterfront, built to resemble the curves of a traditional dhow.

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Road

Highlight: Take a nature break without leaving the city

Escape the city's skyscrapers for an afternoon at the Dubai Butterfly Garden . For a slice of nature, this vast butterfly garden, with around 15,000 butterflies flitting under the domed enclosures, can't be beaten.

It's a great chance for kids to get close-up views of butterflies as they often land on visitors' shoulders and hands.

There's a museum here, too, with plenty of information on butterfly varieties, their habitats, and life cycle.

Highlight: Explore Dubai's sea-going heritage and life along this coastline before the contemporary city

Dubai's architectural, cultural, and maritime heritage is showcased at the Heritage and Diving Village, with displays related to pearl diving and dhow building—two of old Dubai's historic economic mainstays.

There are also recreations of traditional Bedouin and coastal village life, with Persian homes, a traditional coffeehouse, and a small souk where potters and weavers practice their handicrafts at the stalls.

Local music and dance are performed from October to April, and visitors can get advice from practitioners of traditional medicine.

Location: Shindagha, Bur Dubai

Highlight: Spend an early morning spotting flamingos and other birds amid the city's wetlands

You don't have to go too far away from the skyscrapers to soak up a more natural vista. The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary incorporates the mangrove forests and wetlands of Dubai creek.

An important stop-off on the migration routes, it's a prime place to spot flamingos in winter when massive flocks of these majestic pink birds wade through the lagoons, backdropped by soaring high-rises.

Various hides in prime spots have been set up within the park to allow bird watchers good views of the birdlife.

Address: Ras Al Khor Street, Dubai

Highlight: Delve into Dubai's history amid the museums of this royal complex

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum was the Ruler of Dubai from 1921 to 1958 and grandfather to the current ruler. His former residence has been rebuilt and restored as a museum that is a fine example of Arabian architecture.

The original house was built in 1896 by Sheikh Saeed's father, so he could observe shipping activity from the balconies.

It was demolished, but the current house was rebuilt next to the original site, staying true to the original model by incorporating carved teak doors, wooden lattice screens across the windows, and gypsum ventilation screens with floral and geometric designs.

Thirty rooms are built around a central courtyard with wind-tower details on top.

Inside are the exhibits of the Dubai Museum of Historical Photographs and Documents with many wonderful old photographs of Dubai from the period between 1948 and 1953.

The marine wing of the museum has photos of fishing, pearling, and boat building. Throughout the building there are many letters, maps, coins, and stamps on display showing the development of the Emirate.

Nearby is the Crossroads of Civilizations Museum , which explores the United Arab Emirates' historic role as a trading center between Asia, Africa, and Europe long before oil became this region's most prominent industry.

Located inside the old residence of Sheikh Hashr bin Maktoum Al Maktoum, who was a member of Dubai's ruling family, the exhibits trace this coastal area's history as part of the global trade routes, with displays of artifacts and manuscripts.

Also on-site are the Rare Books and Manuscripts Museum and the small Armory Museum.

Address: Al Khaleej Road, Bur Dubai

Highlight: Explore Dubai's burgeoning contemporary art scene

Part of the old Al Quoz industrial district, Al Serkal Avenue has been regenerated to become Dubai's main arts hub and is home to some of the city's most important contemporary art galleries.

Established gallery names such as the Green Art Gallery , The Third Line and the Ayyam Gallery have made their home here, while a host of smaller gallery start-ups have also moved in.

The district's program of rotating collections focuses both on the work of major artists, as well as highlighting new Middle Eastern talent.

This emerging district is also the place to come for fashion and accessory boutiques by local designers, pop-up restaurants, and café life, and it showcases the energetic and youthful buzz of a city, which is usually more noted for its corporate face.

Address: Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz Industrial District

As well as Dubai's glut of theme parks, a stay in the city can incorporate plenty more active things to do.

There are plentiful desert tours that head out beyond the skyscrapers if you want the kids to sample more natural scenery. Many of the tours include sandboarding or camel riding.

To stick to the coast, the beaches and resorts offer kayak hire, as well as a bundle of other water sports to get the kids working off some energy in the sea.

And for those who enjoy the complete oddity of having some snow-fun amid the heat, the indoor ski run at Mall of the Emirates can't be beaten.

For easy access to Dubai's top tourist attractions, the best place to stay is Downtown Dubai.

Prime attractions nearby include the landmark Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building; Dubai Mall; and the Dubai Fountain. You'll also find plenty of shops, restaurants, and art galleries in this vibrant precinct.

If you're seeking some sun, sand, and sea, Jumeira and Dubai Marina lay about 15 minutes by car from Burj Khalifa and are also popular bases for tourists.

Below are some highly rated hotels in convenient and central locations for touring the city:

Luxury Hotels:

• The Palace Downtown Dubai is a five-star resort right in the heart of Downtown Dubai, combining traditional Arabic design features with contemporary facilities, all overlooking Burj Khalifa Lake. There's a pool, spa, and restaurants on-site.
• Armani Hotel offers rooms decked out in sophisticated luxury. It's set in the Burj Khalifa, for a stay in the top address in Downtown Dubai, with a pool and spa on-site.
• Burj Al Arab is Dubai's most iconic stay, set on its own manmade island, with palatial interiors, world-class restaurants, and suite-style rooms that overlook the waters of the Gulf.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• Ramada by Wyndham Downtown Dubai is in a top-notch location in Downtown Dubai, neighboring the Dubai Opera. There's excellent in-house facilities, including a pool, restaurants, and gym, and the spacious, modern rooms all come with balconies.
• Manzil Downtown by Vida is a classy, contemporary boutique hotel option with a large outdoor pool area and white-on-white rooms that incorporate modern Arabesque design features into their interiors. It's in a handy, central location in Downtown Dubai.
• Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach sits on Dubai's The Walk promenade, in Jumeirah so it's a top choice for those who want a waterfront location. There's a large pool area, private beach and plenty of resort facilities. It's about a 12-minute drive to the Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai from here.

Budget Hotels:

• XVA Art Hotel offers contemporary boutique-hotel style within a traditional Dubai building, right in the heart of the historic Al Fahidi (Old Dubai) district.
• Ibis Dubai Al Rigga is a great budget choice thanks to its central Deira position, close to Dubai Creek and the city's major historic tourist attractions, as well as its well-equipped, small rooms and in-house facilities, including two restaurants and a gym.
• Ibis Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel , next door to the namesake mall with Ski Dubai, is a popular option with both business and leisure travelers thanks to its modern, good-value rooms and solid facilities, including two on-site restaurants.
• See the Sights : Dubai Private Modern or Traditional Dubai Tour is one of the most convenient ways to see the city's sights. This half-day guided tour takes you to the main attractions, including Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai Museum, Deira Gold Souq, and more.
• Soar over the City: Dubai Helicopter Tour offers incredible views across the city and desert surroundings on a 15-minute or 25-minute helicopter ride. There is no better way to see the famous Palm Jumeirah or the manmade archipelago created in the shape of a world map, known as The World, than from the air.

By far, the best times to visit Dubai are the months of November, December, January, February, March, and April when the weather is, in general, at its most pleasant. This is peak tourism season, though, so prepare for hotel prices to be at their highest.

Keen shoppers after discounts galore should head here during January when the entire month is devoted to the Dubai Shopping Festival. Be aware that January is Dubai's coldest month, though, with an average high of 23 degrees Celsius and temperatures dropping as low as 14 degrees.

For the best weather, particularly if you're going to hit the beach or head out into the desert during your trip, plan to travel here during the months of November or April when the average daytime temperatures sit between 25 and 26 degrees Celsius, and only peak as high as 31 degrees.

These two months usher in plenty of blue skies and sunshine for outdoor activities, but without the scorching heat of summer. Whichever month you choose, pack a warmer layer. You will need it to counter the ferocious air conditioning of Dubai's many indoor venues.

Other Considerations When Timing Your Visit to Dubai

Before deciding on which month to visit, check out when Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting is happening. During this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sundown every day. The Islamic calendar is lunar, so the dates for Ramadan shift every year.

Ramadan in the UAE is strictly followed, and eating, drinking, chewing gum, and smoking in all public spaces is forbidden from daybreak to sunset for everyone, including non-Muslims.

Although some restaurants, mostly those based in international brand hotels and usually one designated café in a mall, will still serve food during the day (with blinds pulled down across the restaurant windows, so that those fasting don't need to see people eating) nearly all restaurants and cafés shut during daylight hours and only open up at sunset.

From sunset onwards, it's feasting time, with many hotels and restaurants putting on special Iftar (the Ramadan after sunset meal) menus, which need to be pre-booked due to high demand.

Businesses, including tourist sights and shops, are open, but keep shorter hours for the entire month.

A benefit of visiting during Ramadan is that the city is less busy than usual, as many Dubai locals decide to head on holiday during this month, and the city also receives fewer tourists.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Beyond Dubai: To dive into the UAE's other cities, check out our articles on things to do in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah . If you want to learn about the beach resorts beyond Dubai, have a look at our feature pieces on Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman .

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20 Mind-Blowing Experiences Unique To Dubai

Published: September 3, 2024

by Wilone Theriault

Dubai is a city like no other, offering experiences that will leave you amazed. From the world's tallest building to indoor skiing in the desert, Dubai has something for everyone. Imagine standing atop the Burj Khalifa , gazing at the sprawling city below, or shopping in the luxurious Dubai Mall with its endless array of stores and attractions. For thrill-seekers, there's Skydiving over the Palm Jumeirah or dune bashing in the vast Arabian Desert . Families can enjoy the wonders of Dubai Aquarium or the fun-filled IMG Worlds of Adventure . Whether you're an adventurer, a shopper, or someone who loves unique experiences, Dubai promises unforgettable memories.

1. Burj Khalifa: Touch the Sky

Dubai's skyline wouldn't be complete without the iconic Burj Khalifa . Standing at 828 meters, it’s the tallest building in the world. Visitors can take an elevator ride to the observation deck on the 148th floor for a breathtaking view of the city.

2. Dubai Mall: Shopper's Paradise

Next to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall offers more than just shopping. It’s home to an indoor ice rink, an aquarium, and even a virtual reality park. Spend a day exploring its 1,200 shops and numerous attractions.

3. Desert Safari: Adventure Awaits

Experience the thrill of a desert safari . Ride over sand dunes in a 4×4, try sandboarding, and end the evening with a traditional Bedouin camp dinner under the stars.

4. Palm Jumeirah: Man-Made Marvel

Palm Jumeirah is an artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree. It’s a feat of engineering and home to luxury hotels, including the famous Atlantis, The Palm. Take a monorail ride for a unique perspective.

5. Dubai Fountain: Water Dance

Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain performs daily shows set to music. The water jets shoot up to 150 meters, creating a mesmerizing display of light and sound.

6. Ski Dubai: Snow in the Desert

Inside the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai offers a winter wonderland with real snow. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or even meeting penguins in this indoor ski resort .

7. Dubai Marina: Waterfront Wonder

Dubai Marina is a bustling waterfront area with skyscrapers, restaurants, and shops. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade or enjoy a dinner cruise to see the city lights.

8. Jumeirah Beach: Sun and Sand

Relax at Jumeirah Beach , a pristine stretch of white sand with clear blue waters. It’s perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying water sports.

9. Dubai Creek: Historical Heart

Dubai Creek is where the city’s history began. Take an abra (traditional boat) ride across the creek, visit the Dubai Museum, and explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood.

10. Global Village: Cultural Extravaganza

Global Village is a seasonal attraction that showcases cultures from around the world. Enjoy pavilions representing different countries, live performances, and a variety of cuisines.

11. Dubai Opera: Cultural Hub

Dubai Opera hosts a range of performances, from opera and ballet to concerts and theater. Its dhow-shaped design is a nod to the city’s maritime history.

12. Miracle Garden: Floral Fantasy

Dubai Miracle Garden is the world’s largest natural flower garden. Wander through a colorful landscape featuring over 50 million blooms arranged in stunning designs.

13. Alserkal Avenue: Art District

Alserkal Avenue is Dubai’s contemporary art hub. Explore galleries, creative spaces, and cultural events in this vibrant district.

14. Dubai Aquarium: Underwater World

Located in the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium houses thousands of aquatic animals. Walk through the 48-meter tunnel for an immersive underwater experience.

15. The Dubai Frame: Picture Perfect

The Dubai Frame offers panoramic views of both old and new Dubai. This architectural landmark is shaped like a giant picture frame, symbolizing the city’s past and future.

16. La Mer: Beachfront Bliss

La Mer is a trendy beachfront destination with shops, restaurants, and water activities. Relax on the beach or enjoy the vibrant street art and murals.

17. IMG Worlds of Adventure: Theme Park Fun

IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world’s largest indoor theme park. It features rides and attractions based on popular characters from Marvel and Cartoon Network.

18. Dubai Parks and Resorts: Entertainment Galore

Dubai Parks and Resorts is home to multiple theme parks, including Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, and Legoland. It’s a family-friendly destination with something for everyone.

19. The Green Planet: Tropical Oasis

The Green Planet is a bio-dome that recreates a tropical rainforest. Discover exotic plants and animals in this lush, indoor ecosystem.

20. Al Marmoom Camel Race Track: Traditional Sport

Experience the excitement of camel racing at the Al Marmoom Camel Race Track . Watch these magnificent animals compete in a sport deeply rooted in Emirati culture.

Dubai's Unique Adventures Await

Dubai offers experiences you won't find anywhere else. From skydiving over Palm Jumeirah to dining in the world's tallest building , there's something for everyone. Desert safaris give you a taste of traditional Bedouin life, while indoor skiing at the Mall of the Emirates lets you hit the slopes in the desert. Luxury shopping and cultural tours provide a mix of modern and historic. Water parks and beaches offer fun in the sun, and theme parks like IMG Worlds of Adventure bring excitement for all ages. Helicopter tours give a bird's-eye view of the city's stunning architecture. Whether you're an adventure seeker or a relaxation lover , Dubai has it all. Plan your trip to experience these mind-blowing activities. Your unforgettable adventure in Dubai is just a flight away.

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A Perfect Dubai Itinerary: Top Attractions and Experiences You Can’t Miss

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 01/09/2024

Dubai is a larger than life city in the Middle East. It’s one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates and famous for many things. It’s known for its fun attractions, luxury shopping malls, futuristic architecture and an exciting nightlife scene.

It’s the kind of destination that has something for every type of traveller, no matter how young or old. If you’re travelling to Dubai or visiting from nearby Abu Dhabi, this Dubai itinerary will help you discover the city and hit all the highlights.

The United Arab Emirates is a very safe country. Even if you’re a  solo traveller , you’ll have no problem exploring the city on your own. So without further adieu, here is the ultimate itinerary for visiting Dubai.

Things to Book Before You Leave Home Few things are more frustrating on vacation than missing out on that amazing hotel or tour because it is sold out. Here are our top things to book before your vacation. 🏢 Most Popular Tourist Attractions in Dubai: 1. Burj Khalifa Skip the Line Tickets – tallest building in the world 2. Dubai Desert Safari – most popular tours in Dubai and so much fun 3. Dubai Marina Cruise – enjoy the city’s amazing architecture from the water 🛏️ Where to Stay in Dubai: 1. Sofitel Jumeirah Beach – awesome location and 5 star decadence 2. Hyatt Dubai Creek Heights – experience old Dubai with all the creature comforts

Dubai Itinerary: How to Get to Dubai and How to Get Around

Dubai airport is one of the biggest and busiest airports in the world. It is possible to fly virtually to and from anywhere in the world. It is also the home hub for Emirates Airlines – don’t miss my  Emirates Business Class Review  post.

⇒ Book your  flight to Dubai

Dubai is a sprawling city, but it’s well connected and offers plenty of public transport options. The metro line and bus are the easiest ways to get around the city on land. I used the metro quite a few times and found it very easy to navigate. If you need to travel on water, you can hop on the ferry or water taxis. 

The city’s main forms of public transportation are all managed by the RTA. They all use the  NOL card , so you don’t need to worry about buying a different ticket for whatever option you choose. This also includes the ferry and water taxi.

Road taxis are also available. Although they are more expensive than public transportation, they are well regulated by the government. This means you won’t experience a huge fluctuation in the prices. I used Uber quite a bit to get around and this worked well. 

I have become a big fan of using e-sims . They are so easy to set up, no messing around with sim cards and best of all you will still get messages on your “usual” number. I use Airalo.

Dubai also has a  hop-on-hop-off sightseeing bus  with six routes around the city. This classic red bus offers 46 well-placed departure points that follow a time table. Guests can hop-on or hop-off the bus at any stop they want.

Pre-recorded commentary (available in multiple languages) is also provided, so you can learn more about each major sight you pass.

Dubai Itinerary: Day 1

Kick-start your Dubai itinerary by visiting some of the city’s most popular points of interest. Let’s get into the best things you don’t want to miss.

See Dubai From Above at Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa  is Dubai’s famous skyscraper. Standing 828 metres high, it’s currently the world’s tallest building. It opened in downtown Dubai in 2010 and has since become an iconic symbol of the city.

The two observation decks of the Burj Khalifa are a must-see. As you can imagine, they offer spectacular views. One is located on the 124th and 125th floors of the building. The second one sits on the 148th floor. With an altitude of 555 metres, it’s the world’s highest observation deck.

I visited both levels. As you may expect the cost is higher to visit the 148th floor. To be honest I didn’t find much of a difference between the two floor choices – I guess it is more about having bragging rights to say that you have visited the top of the tallest building in the world!

Both the floors have indoor and outdoor areas. The viewing deck on 125 is enclosed so it is necessary to go down to the 124th floor to get outside. The 124th floor has a large open air area. 

If you do choose to visit the highest point of Burj Khalifa you will also get coffee and snacks included in your visit. And on the 125th floor selfie wings have been painted on the wall for photos. 

The whole area is done very well and there are lots of opportunities to purchase souvenirs, get a photo of yourself by a professional etc etc. 

The best way to visit Burj Khalifa is to book your ticket ahead of time to avoid queues. 

➡️ Book Your Skip the Line Tickets for Burj Khalifa.

Explore All the Entertainment Options at the Dubai Mall 

The Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping mall and a must visit on any Dubai itinerary. It spans an area of more than 1 million square metres and is filled with over 1,200 shops, as well as hundreds of food and drink options. Whether you want to pick up something fancy from a high-end retailer, or a souvenir to remember your trip by, you’ll easily find whatever you’re looking for.

And, if you’re not super keen on shopping, the mall also houses an Olympic size ice rink, a movie theatre, a haunted house, and an amusement park. It is almost quite overwhelming to visit this mall as it is so very large. Make sure you wear sensible shoes.

Discover an Underwater World at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Located inside the Dubai Mall, the  Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo  are not to be missed. The aquarium is one of the world’s largest, and home to many exotic fish species. You’ll feel as if you’re in another world as you admire 33,000 aquatic animals.

The walkthrough aquarium tunnel will give you an interesting vantage point of these incredible underwater creatures. And, you can also check out the world’s largest collection of sand tiger sharks while you’re here.

After you’ve spent some time visiting the aquarium, head to the Underwater Zoo and learn about the sustainability of marine life through fun and interactive exhibits. The zoo contains three different ecological zones: Rainforest, Rocky Shore, and Living Ocean. You’ll have a chance to see playful penguins and sea otters, as well as one of the world’s largest crocodiles.

➡️ Book Your Dubai Aquarium Tickets

Learn About the United Arab Emirates’ History at the Etihad Museum

The Etihad Museum is the best place in the city to learn about the history and heritage of the United Arab Emirates. Having only been founded in 1971, it is a fairly new country. Gain insight into the seven different emirates and how they came together to form one great nation. 

The visual and interactive displays/exhibits tell a story and make learning fun for all ages.

Visit Old Town Dubai

No trip to Dubai would be complete without experiencing the city’s Old Town . This area isn’t as built up and modern as the other districts, which allows you to experience Dubai without all the glitz and glam.

The Al Bastakiya Quarter is a historic district in Bur Dubai that dates back to the 1890s. Walk through the old labyrinth of streets and see the original architecture of the city. Have lunch at a traditional Arab tea house and visit a local museum, like the Coffee Museum.

The Spice Souk is a great market to visit if you’re into cooking. You’ll find top-quality traditional and rare spices from Dubai and neighbouring regions.

And of course no visit to Dubai would be compete without visiting the gold souq. There are many stores in the souq – as a westerner the biggest challenge is finding a store which carries the type of designs that you will find attractive. 

I am a big Georg Jensen fan so I like my jewellry simple. I did manage to get some great gold hoops. The store will quote you a gold price for the day and that plus the weight of the item that you are purchasing will generate a price. I felt very safe making the purchase and felt like the process for providing a price was above board.

➡️ Book Your Dubai Old Town Tour

Relax at Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek  is another area in Dubai you don’t want to miss. Walk along the saltwater creek and watch the sunset.

For a special treat, book an evening Dhow cruise and dinner. Ride on a traditional Arabian dhow and enjoy a buffet-style feast of Arabic and international cuisine. See the sights of Dubai from a different perspective.

➡️ Book Your Dhow Cruise

Admire the Famous Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain hosts the largest choreographed water show in the world. This powerful fountain performs water acts accompanied by a range of songs, from classical and contemporary Arabic music to world-famous songs.

This daily show runs every 30 minutes from approximately 6:00 pm until 11:00 pm. There are also two day time shows.

The best place to watch this captivating act is on a  Burj Lake ride by traditional boat.  Cruise the water on a traditional “abra” water taxi as you admire the fountains from the best seat in the house.

Take an Amazing Food tour

Perhaps the biggest highlight of my first trip to Dubai and of this Dubai Itinerary was taking an evening food tour with  Frying Pan Adventures . This local tour company is a fantastic insiders guide to a very non touristy side of the Dubai food scene. This is the perfect place for multi cultural food tour. 

I took the company’s signature Middle Eastern Food Pilgrimmage Tour and I absolutely loved it. Our tour guide was both Jordanian and Bangladeshi and lived in Dubai. In addition to telling us fantastic stories about the places that we visited she was able to present them in the context of Middle Eastern food traditions and customs. 

The first stop was for mezze – all vegan and dairy free – at the kind of falafel place that I would never have stepped into. We enjoyed some delicious freshly made bread with slow cooked fava benas, hummous, falafels, tahini, salsa verde – all were on offer to make your own sandwich style falafals.

I had never been a fan of Middle Eastern desserts until this tour. We actually went into the kitchens of some of the restaurants we are visited and saw these delectable desserts being made from scratch – and being able to eat some of them straight from the oven. 

We also visited an Iraqi restaurant – a first for me. The restaurant specialised in barbequing its fish in a pit in a uniquely Iraqi way. 

I don’t want to give away too much about this wonderful tour as a large part of what I enjoyed was having one interesting and surprising food experience after another. But I will say that I did experience saffron  ice cream  – yet another first for me on this great Dubai food tour. I had the best time on this guided tour. 

Dubai Itinerary: Day 2

Now that we’ve covered some of the city’s top sightseeing destinations, it’s time to check out some of Dubai’s modern, thrill-seeking attractions. You’ll notice there aren’t a lot of stops on your second day. This is because you’ll want to spend at least 2-3 hours at each attraction.

Hit the Slopes at the Mall of the Emirates

The Mall of the Emirates is another one of Dubai’s famous shopping malls. It’s a one-stop-shop that will keep you entertained all day with its many shopping and dining options.

What makes this mall stand out is it’s indoor skiing facilities. Beat the heat and cool off on the slopes at  Ski Dubai. Enjoy skiing or snowboarding on one of the park’s five different runs. 

They vary in difficulty from beginner to advanced. All of the clothing and equipment is provided so you don’t have to worry about bringing anything.

➡️ Book Your Ski Dubai Tickets

⇒ If you don’t have as much time in Dubai check out my post on  One Day in Dubai

Cool Off at the Aquaventure Waterpark

There is no better place to spend a hot day in Dubai than at  Aquaventure Waterpark . It claims the title of the largest waterpark in the Middle East. It’s perfect for all ages and a great way to keep kids entertained. There are thrilling rides and tidal waves for adults and splash areas and water playgrounds designed for kids.

There is also a private beach and a lazy river. When you need to refuel, the on-site restaurants serve snacks and cooling refreshments.

➡️ Book Your Aquaventure Waterpark Tickets Now

Spend the Evening at Dubai Marina Walk

Marina Walk is an outdoor area of Dubai that stretches for 7 km along the city’s waterfront. The paved walkway is well-landscaped and lined with palm-trees. It’s one of the best areas to enjoy a leisurely walk or a cycle ride.

You’ll find a wide range of restaurants, from fine-dining to casual. And, for the particularly hot days, there are plenty of ice cream shops. It’s also a popular departing point for water-themed entertainment activities, like  speed-boat sightseeing tours , wakeboarding, and jet skiing.

➡️ Book Your Dubai Marina Cruise

Or the other option is to visit the fantastic  La Mer  area. La Mer is filled with shops, restaurants, beaches, colourful beach hots and a boardwalk. La Mer is home to some of the hottest restaurants in Dubai. 

I had an outstanding meal whilst I was in Dubai at  Kaftan , a Turkish restaurant in La Mer on the boardwalk. Like most restaurants along the boardwalk it is large and offers a choice of indoor and outdoor seating. 

I chose outdoor covered seating (well most of the outdoor seating is covered) and enjoyed some fantastic baba ganoush with freshly made bread and an outstanding sliced meat dish with a tomato sauce.

Dubai Itinerary: Day 3

On day three of your Dubai itinerary, round off your trip by visiting a few more attractions in the city. Then, make your way to the desert for an experience you won’t forget.

Wake Up and Smell the Flowers at the Dubai Miracle Garden

Spanning over 72,000 square metres, the Dubai Miracle Garden is the world’s largest natural flower garden. It features millions of different flowers and plants.

See characters crafted out of flowers, including a topiary of Mickey Mouse and other Disney characters. Walkthrough large flower-filled heart passageways and admire a floral castle and houses. This garden is a true feast for your eyes. Don’t forget to pack your camera, the pictures will practically take themselves.

It is honestly a little bit like Instagram vomited! There are love heart shaped arches covered in flowers, an umbrella ceiling of course and numerous opportunities for selfies – and lots of people taking selfies. 

I was most impressed by the Emirates plane decorated with flowers. It is quite amazing to see so many flowers in bloom in the middle of a desert. The gardens are quite large so it does take some time to explore them. 

I took an uber each way to the Dubai Miracle Gardens as it was a bit off the main strip action in Dubai. It was well worth a visit – particularly if you like taking fun photos. 

➡️ Book Your Dubai Miracle Gardens Skip The Line Tickets Now

Visit One of Dubai’s Public Beaches

Dubai boasts many public beaches that are perfect for sun-seekers and water lovers. Jumeirah Open Beach is one of the most popular public beach options. It’s family-friendly and offers fun attractions, like volleyball courts, a kids playground and a jogging track.

There are lifeguards on duty and shower facilities are available.

Take an Exciting Desert Safari

Escape the city for the evening and go on a  desert safari . Just one hour outside of Dubai sits the rural desert that provides a whole new list of experiences and activities on its beautiful sand dunes. Go on a camel ride, sandboard the dunes, do some dune bashing and ride quad bikes through the desert. Partake in some local customs, like smoking a shisha pipe and henna painting.

If you’re looking for an alternative desert adventure option check out my article on the emirates next door – the  best places to visit in Sharjah . 

Visiting the desert is the perfect way to cap off your Dubai itinerary.

➡️ Book Your Dubai Desert Safari Now

Where to Stay in Dubai

Dubai is filled with world-class hotels and resorts. Here are three accommodation options that will take your trip to the next level.

Five Jumeirah Village

Five Jumeirah Village  has everything you need for a relaxing vacation. In fact, this luxury hotel is so relaxing you might have a hard time leaving the property to explore the city. With two outdoor swimming pools, a private beach area, a restaurant, and a bar, this is a great place for a good time.

The rooms have private balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows. As you can expect, the views are spectacular. They also include Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV, and tea/coffee making facilities.

➡️ Check Prices and Availability for Five Jumeirah Village

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai

Atlantis The Palm, Dubai  is one of the most popular hotels in Dubai. It’s so extravagant, it’s an attraction in itself. The rooms feature Arabian and oceanic decor, as well as a balcony with scenic views.

Everything is super modern, from the flat-screen satellite TV to the tea/coffee making facilities and minibar. And, if you check into this hotel, you’ll enjoy complimentary access to Aquaventure Waterpark.

➡️ Check Prices and Availability for Atlantis The Palm

If you’re looking for amazing deals on fantastic hotels in Dubai , make sure you check out Secret Escapes.

Al Bandar Rotana – Dubai Creek

If you’d prefer to stay in the historic heart of Dubai,  Al Bandar Rotana  is a great accommodation choice. It enjoys a waterfront location on the edge of Dubai Creek. The chic rooms feature stunning city or creek views and the very best amenities and technology.

When you’re not out exploring the city, book a treatment at the wellness centre, or dine at one of the property’s five restaurants.

➡️ Check Prices and Availability for Al Bandar Rotana

For a more boutique (albeit this is a hotel chain) option check out the  Voco hotel . This hotel feels glamourous but it is definitely more in the boutique direction vs the over the top mega Dubai 5 star option. 

It has a fantastic location on Dubai’s main street and is about halfway between New and old Dubai. And it is just a 5 minute walk to the metro station. 

I ended up getting an upgrade to a stunning suite at the Voco Hotel as there was an error when I was checking in. The room was absolutely huge and the views were jaw dropping. 

The highlight for me was the amazing views of Dubai from the shower and the bathtub. There are also some good views from the rooftop infinity pool.

I also enjoyed an excellent modern Indian lunch at Tresind, one of the restaurants at the Voco Hotel and one of Dubai’s hot restaurants. The food was outstanding and served with quite the flourish – Japanese grills, dry ice – it was a very full-on lunch! 

➡️ Check Prices and Availability at the Voco Hotel

Final Thoughts on the Ultimate Dubai Itinerary

Dubai really has it all. It’s the kind of city where there’s never a dull moment and the list of things to do seems endless in this global village. Even the museum and shopping malls have state-of-the-art facilities. You’ll be captivated your whole trip.

This Dubai itinerary will guarantee you hit all of the highlights and experience a vacation you won’t forget.

If you’re looking for more places to explore in the Middle East, make sure to check out the ultimate  Jordan itinerary .

Who Paid for What in this Dubai Itinerary Post? 

I covered the large majority of the costs associated with writing this post. However, Frying Pan Adventures did provide me with a complimentary tour. My opinions are my own as always and as you can tell from this post I absolutely loved my Frying Pan Adventures food tour.  This Dubai Itinerary post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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12 must-visit islands in the UAE

Island days are the best kind of days. With nearly 500 islands in the UAE – the emirate of Abu Dhabi has 200 and there are a further 260 in Dubai's manmade The World archipelago – you could spend a day on each and have yourself a very good year indeed. Except, like us, you’ll probably need to swap sunsets for spreadsheets eventually. To help you out, we’ve pulled together this list of the 12 best.

Palm Jumeirah

1. Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

It’s been called the eighth wonder of the world, so it’s fitting that Palm Jumeirah makes our list of the UAE’s best islands. Each of its 30-plus luxury resorts is a destination in itself, but remain in their cocooning embrace and you risk ending up with a major case of fomo. This luxury playground is home to a dazzling array of high-end restaurants (Stay by Yannick Alléno and Trèsind Studio should both be on your list) and hard-to-get-into nightclubs. Or you can push your limits on the Odyssey of Terror, the world’s tallest waterslide – one of 50 at Atlantis Aquaventure waterpark, part of Atlantis, The Palm. But perhaps the best way to take in the Palm’s architectural beauty is from the air. The Dubai Balloon is a tethered helium gondola with aerial views of the archipelago and of the emirate’s distinctive skyline beyond.

Views from Anantara World Islands resort

2. The World Islands, Dubai

Recreating the Earth’s landmasses on the waves was always going to be an audacious proposition, but The World Islands were constructed all the same – and some are open to visitors. Anantara World Islands Resort offers a unique experience in a country awash with superlatives; a short hop away is the adults-only Voco Monaco Dubai, part of The Heart of Europe collection of projects, inspired by the French Riviera. The first to open was Island Dubai on Lebanon island, with restaurants, water sports and beach activities. You can only get to the islands by air or by boat from the Palm, and transport is typically organised by the respective hotels.

The dog-friendly beach at Dubai Islands

3. Dubai Islands, Deira

Estimated to date back to the 1700s, Deira is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in Dubai. It’s also home to one of the emirate’s newest developments – the manmade Dubai Islands. Although still a work in progress, the area already hosts a mall and three hotels; the newest, Park Regis by Prince, has an AI concierge for tech fanboys. The area is also home to Dubai's only beach where dogs are allowed in the water. Overall, the development is one of the best places to enjoy a quiet beach day (whether or not you have four-legged friends in tow), minutes away from Dubai’s historic creek and bustling souks.

The mangroves on Sir Bani Yas Island

4. Sir Bani Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

An extraordinary experience awaits on Sir Bani Yas, the UAE’s largest natural island . One of eight desert islands in the Al Dhafra region, it was established as a wildlife reserve in 1977 by Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan, the first president of the UAE, and is now home to more than 17,000 free-roaming animals, including giraffes, hyenas, cheetahs, gazelles and Arabian Oryx. But animal safaris aren't the only outdoor experiences offered by the Anantara properties situated here. Settlers arrived on the sedimentary salt dome several thousand years ago, and 36 archaeological sites provide a distinct insight into the history of humankind. Or skip class and mountain bike through the sandy wadis of this proverbial garden of Eden.

Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

5. Yas Island, Abu Dhabi

Thrills of a different sort await on Yas Island , where you can take your pick of heart rate-boosting experiences: the planet’s fastest rollercoaster at Ferrari World; Formula 1 thrills in a high-performance car at Yas Marina Circuit; indoor skydiving at Clymb; or child-like fun at the fully air-conditioned, 1.65-million-square-foot Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi. More sedate but equally rousing for fans of the gentleman’s game: the par-72 championship Yas Links Abu Dhabi golf course.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

6. Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi

There’s culture and then there’s Saadiyat Island , Abu Dhabi’s answer to Berlin’s famous Museum Island. Already open to visitors are Louvre Abu Dhabi, which houses the region’s finest art collection, Berklee Abu Dhabi music school and Manarat Al Saadiyat, a centre for galleries and artistic exchange. Four more cultural experiences are on the way, all designed by world-class architects: Zayed National Museum, Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi and teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi, billed as an immersive journey at the intersection of art and technology. This being an island, there are beaches, of course, and the ever-popular Saadiyat Beach Club . The island is also home to an endangered animal rescue programme focusing on hawksbill sea turtles.

The Galleria, Al Maryah Island

7. Al Maryah Island, Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi's Al Maryah Island is where you head for world-class shopping without the crowds. The island’s Galleria Mall contains a panoply of aspirational brands, from Jimmy Choo, Hermès and Dior, to Louis Vuitton, Chanel, Van Cleef & Arpels and Cartier. Afterwards, take time to unwind at one of the many waterfront restaurants: Zuma, Nusr-Et, Almayass and the Michelin-stared 99 Sushi Bar are among the best.

Abu Dhabi's Dalma Island

8. Dalma Island, Abu Dhabi

Longtime UAE residents will tell you there’s not much to do on Dalma Island, 42 kilometres off Abu Dhabi’s westernmost coast. That depends on what you want to do, of course. Settlements here date back to neolithic times, and Dalma has been a significant pearling centre for centuries. There are at least 20 archaeological sites on the balloon-shaped island, and its principal museum sits in a century-old coral-and-stone building that was once the home of pearl merchant Mohammed Bin Jassim Al Meraikhi. There are also at least three ancient mosques, a desert water network that's hundreds of years old and several geological attractions. You’ll need to take the ferry or book a charter flight, and ring ahead to any attractions.

Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah

9. Al Marjan Island, Ras Al Khaimah

Four manmade coral-shaped islets make up Al Marjan Island complex in the northernmost emirate of Ras Al Khaimah . Their luxury hotels are set on a 7.8km stretch between the Arabian Gulf and the Yanis and Jais Mountains, but these UAE islands are also extra special for fans of outdoor activities and adventure sports, with Pullman, Double Tree and Hampton by Hilton hotels all offering activities such as parasailing, jet skiing, waterskiing and wakeboarding, flyboard and fly fishing, as well as deep-sea fishing adventures and scuba diving trips. Within an hour’s drive are the world's longest zipline, the Jais Flight, and the Bear Grylls Explorers Camp, with abseiling, archery and professional survival courses.

Sunset view of Al Noor island

10. Al Noor Island, Sharjah

Fittingly for Sharjah , the UAE's most arts-orientated emirate, Al Noor Island is a cultural retreat within the city. The manageable, child-friendly attraction sited within the Khalid Lagoon offers a relaxing day out. There’s a butterfly vivarium with 500-odd species, a literature pavilion, artistic installations everywhere and a programme of regular art events.

Sira Khorfakkan, Sharjah

11. Sira Khorfakkan, Sharjah

Cross over to the UAE’s underrated east coast for a change of scenery. Shark Island sits off Khorfakkan , an enclave of Sharjah. Sira Khorfakkan, as it’s known locally, is a small promontory encircled by coral reefs. Home to sea anemones and turtles, it’s perfect for snorkellers, but there’s plenty for scuba divers too: moray eels, rays, Arabian angelfish and the blacktip reef sharks that give the rocky isle its name.

Socotra cormorants can be spotted on unspoilt Sinniyah Island

12. Sinniyah Island, Umm Al Quwain

Off the coast of the least-visited emirate is unspoilt Sinniyah Island, a haven for bird lovers and nature enthusiasts. Its lush mangroves and shallow mudflats teem with birdlife, including migratory species such as flamingos and herons, as well as the endangered local Socotra cormorant. Ask a travel operator to book you a tour to this tranquil island getaway.