Impressive artificial islands, jaw-dropping fusion cuisine, and world-class entertainment contribute to Dubai’s unique vitality. The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has flourished recently, becoming a stunning fusion of culture and wealth. Dubai is home to a dizzying array of attractions, including the Burj Khalifa, the most spectacular amusement park in the Middle East, many souks and bazaars, and the largest mall in the world. Whether you’re interested in desert safaris or meeting the world’s tallest building, you’ll find what you’re searching for in our list of the top 15 things to do in Dubai. But if you want to learn more about the various genre-based activities, you can access that list by clicking on the markers.
The Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain, the world’s second-largest choreographed fountain system, is one of the most breathtaking light, water, and musical exhibitions imaginable. The Dubai Fountain, in the heart of Downtown Dubai, puts on a spectacular display with its programmed water jets that dance to the beat of international music and shoot more than 100 feet into the air. Adjacent to the namesake structure, it takes up a breathtaking location on the artificial 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake. With assured front-row seating, free admission, and a performance every half hour starting at 6:00 p.m., you will want to attend these shows.
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- The lake’s fountain display is stunning under the moonlight. If you want to see it, go after 8:00 p.m.
- If you miss the show, that’s okay. It happens once every half an hour. The next concert will be just up your alley, so be patient.
Burj Kalifa
Nobody has to be told about the world’s highest skyscraper. Even before it was completed in 2008, the Burj Khalifa had the title of tallest building in the world, reaching a total height of 829.8 m (2,722 ft). Its soaring silhouette in the middle of Dubai makes it visible from almost anywhere in the metropolis. The Burj Khalifa must be seen on every vacation to Dubai. At the Top, the world’s tallest observatory draws more than 2 million visitors annually to the Burj Khalifa. Perched atop the Burj Khalifa on levels 124 and 125, the At the Top Burj Khalifa is an observation deck that provides visitors with breathtaking views of Dubai city tour. From 452 meters above ground, the city, desert, and ocean are visible via the floor-to-ceiling glass walls. Indulge in the stunning views from the comfort of an outdoor patio. Views from the Burj Khalifa are a favorite for some. The 124th-story vista may be too far away.
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- Get your tickets online in advance and skip the long queue at the box office.
- The Burj Khalifa experiences peak traffic in the evenings. The observatory is much less crowded in the morning and after 9:00 p.m., so if you go then, you may enjoy it in solitude.
- Although the view from the Burj Khalifa at sunset is breathtaking, it is also the busiest time of day. Visit the Burj Khalifa at least one hour before sunset to see the sunset from its observation deck.
Dubai Burj
A sail-shaped silhouette on Dubai’s beachfront, the Burj Al Arab is an iconic emblem of the city and a portal to a realm of comfort and luxury. One of Dubai’s most popular attractions, the Burj Al Arab is often considered the world’s most opulent hotel. Having high tea or supper at one of the hotel’s numerous world-class restaurants is an excellent opportunity to appreciate the Burj Al Arab’s magnificence. A boat ride or a jet ski excursion around the Burj Al Arab is another fun way to see this iconic structure. The Burj Al Arab, perched on a triangular island just off Dubai’s shore, is an iconic site no tourist should miss.
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- If you aren’t staying at the Burj Al Arab, having supper or high tea at one of the several 5-star restaurants is the best way to see the building. Everything about it is beautiful.
- If all you care about is the exterior, there’s no cost to visit Jumeirah Beach and take photographs with the hotel as a backdrop.
- Inject some excitement by going on a jet ski trip or a boat ride around the Jumeirah shore, which will pass by Burj Al Arab and more.
Dubai Mall
Every trip to Dubai would be complete with a stop at the Dubai Mall, the city’s premier retail destination. Dubai Mall, located in Dubai Downtown and spanning 12 million square feet, is the world’s most significant retail, entertainment, and leisure complex. From world-renowned fashion houses like Versace, Alexander McQueen, and Burberry to more than 150 eateries, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, amusement parks for kids, and an ice skating rink—this mall has it all with more than 1,200 stores and restaurants. Guests at the Dubai Mall may take in the breathtaking fountain display by the lake while standing close to the world’s tallest structure, the Burj Khalifa.
The Aqua World Amusement Park
Situated on the outer arms of the world-famous Palm Islands in Atlantis, The Palm Resort is home to the Aquaventure Waterpark. “Best Waterpark in the Middle East 2015” on TripAdvisor and “Middle East’s Leading Waterpark 2016” by the World Travel Awards are just a few of the accolades bestowed upon Aquaventure Waterpark, the biggest water park in the whole Middle East and Europe. At Aquaventure, you’ll find a variety of slides, including one that drops you 75 feet before arcing you around a double loop—Poseidon’s Revenge—and a few others that lead you into a shark-infested lagoon. Lazy riverboat excursions are also available. For a fantastic day at the theme park, consult our comprehensive Aquaventure Waterpark guide.
The Jumeirah Palm
The Palm Jumeirah is an unprecedented artificial archipelago off Dubai’s Jumeirah coast. One of the wealthiest areas in Dubai, Palm Jumeirah is constructed on ground that was formerly underwater. It is inhabited by some of the city’s most opulent residences, hotels, leisure centers, eateries, and beach clubs. At this contemporary Dubai hotspot, you can take a kayak tour of the islands, cruise around the island, or visit the world-renowned Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm. As they extend into the ocean, the islands provide a breathtaking and memorable panorama.
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Countless five-star dining establishments and watering holes may be found on Palm Jumeirah. Visit the Palm Islands if you need a break or want to relax.
Many ships stop in the Palm Islands on their way to and from the islands. During these trips, you will be able to see the islands and everything they have to offer. One of the most enjoyable ways to view the Palm Islands is on a cruise.
While jumping from 4,000 meters over the Palm Islands isn’t for everyone, it does provide a breathtaking panorama. No skydiving experience on Earth can compare to seeing the Palm Islands from above.
The Emirates Mall
With more than 630 worldwide brands, including fashion, department stores, sports, leisure, electronics, home furnishings, and the city’s most giant Carrefour, the Mall of the Emirates is widely recognized as the world’s first shopping resort. There are a plethora of entertainment options available in the mall as well. Some of these attractions include the 14-screen VOX Cinemas, the Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre (DUCTAC), the family-friendly Magic Planet, and the iconic Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort and snow park in the Middle East. Additionally, it offers more than 90 different eating and café alternatives worldwide. The Kempinski Mall of the Emirates and the Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates are five-star hotels located next to the mall.
Bastakiya Quarter
Nestled between Bur Dubai and Dubai Creek, Bastakiya Quarter evokes the era when Dubai was a little fishing community on the Persian Gulf. Bastakiya has managed to evade the rapid development that Dubai has experienced in recent decades. Its meandering alleyways are lined with historic wind-towered buildings transformed into eateries and art galleries. Be sure to stop by the textile souk, where you can discover the finest bolts of cloth before you wrap up your tour of Bastakiya. Lastly, if you want to see traditional Dubai life up close and personal, take a creek tour aboard one of the city’s conventional abra boats.
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- This historic district of Dubai is perfect for a pleasant day of exploring the city’s many art galleries and charming little eateries.
- If you plan to see the sites in Dubai, a city tour is a great option to take you to several locations, including the Bastakia Quarters.
- You may find Bastakia on the bank of Dubai Creek on the left. Taking a leisurely sail along Dubai Creek is the perfect way to unwind after exploring the quarter’s surroundings.
Desert Adventure
Have you experienced Dubai if you have yet to go on a desert safari? Going on a Dubai desert safari is a popular tourist activity. The desert around Dubai is beautiful, and the safari will transport you to a tent there. Enjoy a delectable buffet supper while gazing at the sky, or try camel riding, dune bashing, or sandboarding. Such safaris are a popular option for those who want to feel like they’re in the desert but want a little bit of luxury due to the abundance of activities offered.
Sand Dunes
Dunes in the desert provide an off-roading experience unlike any other. Cars with plenty of wheel power and flat-profile tyres may speed into the dunes and glide around the rolling desert terrain. Dune bashing is an exciting new sport that takes the finest of the 4×4 world and puts it in the middle of the desert. Get ready for an exhilarating journey over the dunes as you’re fastened into the seats of a Hummer, Land Cruiser, or comparable vehicle. Most desert tours include dune bashing. But other adventures focus just on dune bashing.
Quad-Riding in the Desert
Quad bikes are among the most accessible options for conquering the desert. Anyone may conquer the formidable desert on a quad bike with the help of simple riding methods. Dune Hill will be a breeze on a bike with a lightweight frame, wide tires, and robust motor, allowing you to easily glide over the sandy terrain. Both residents and tourists love quad-riding in the desert for its exhilarating and daring nature.
Meena Bazar
Another Dubai landmark that transports visitors to a bygone era is Meena Bazaar. With its traditional stores and marketplaces, Meena Bazaar has been a city landmark for half a century. It is a shopping district in Bur Dubai that sells a wide variety of goods, including apparel, jewellery, electronics, fragrances, shoes, dried fruits, and more. Squeezed into a small space, you can expect to be bombarded by honking horns, illuminated stores, authentic restaurants, and hundreds of bartering consumers.
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- You must be ready to negotiate if you want to obtain the most terrific deal at Meena Bazaar. A decent starting point is to quote half the price and walk away if you’re unhappy.
- People who have never been to Meena Bazaar before may find the crowds too much to handle. To beat the crowds, go first thing in the morning.
Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai is one of a kind, unlike any other park in Dubai or even the Middle East. Step into Ski Dubai, and you may not even notice you’re in Dubai, thanks to the consistently cold temperatures (-2°C). Situated inside the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai is an enormous 22,500-square-metre (about twice the area of a Manhattan city block) facility that is snow-covered throughout the year. Everyone can find their perfect slope on one of these five since they range widely in height, gradient, and difficulty. Everyone, from beginners to seasoned skiers and snowboarders, may have fun on the slopes. Here, you may find a 400-meter run with a more than 60-meter height gradient. Additionally, there is a Freestyle Zone where those with more fluid capabilities may showcase their abilities. To get the most out of your visit to Ski Dubai, read our comprehensive guide to the park and learn everything there is to know about this unique destination.
The Marina in Dubai
Dubai Marina, an artificial waterway stretching three kilometers along the Persian Gulf, is one of the world’s most developed waterfronts and was one of the most daring undertakings of the last few decades. Many high-rises flank its banks, including hotels, homes, and shopping centers. Taking a dhow tour around Dubai Marina is a great way to see this technical marvel. The Marina reflected in the glitter of these buildings makes for a picture-perfect nighttime view of Dubai. As you sail around Dubai Marina, you can take in sights like the Palm, Sheikh’s Boatyard, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai Marina Mall, the Dubai Yacht Club, and the yacht club promenade.
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- A sightseeing cruise is the best way to visit all the famous sites that line the shores of Dubai Marina.
- Dine at one of the many fantastic waterfront restaurants in the Dubai Marina Mall.