If you are looking for someplace fun to visit for a few days, Dubai is the perfect place. There are so many exciting activities for you to do that it might be hard to fit them all in a short time. Dubai is a city that’s all about spending money.
From the Burj Khalifa to the Palm Jumeirah, the city has some of the most expensive real estate in the world. But it’s not all about the money. There’s also plenty for the budget traveler to do. This article breaks down some of the best things to do in Dubai.
Best Time of Year to Visit Dubai
The best time to visit Dubai is during the cooler months, from November to March, when daytime temperatures are pleasant and perfect for outdoor activities. This period also coincides with major events like the Dubai Shopping Festival and Global Village, making it ideal for tourists. Summers (June to September) can be extremely hot, but indoor attractions remain open and well-air-conditioned.
Top 15 Things to Do in Dubai
Dubai is a city that seamlessly blends futuristic innovation with rich cultural heritage, offering a plethora of experiences for every traveler. From towering skyscrapers to serene deserts, here are 15 must-do activities to make the most of your visit to this dynamic metropolis:
1. Ascend the Burj Khalifa
Everyone’s Dubai trip will become incomplete without paying a visit to Burj Khalifa because it is among the world’s best wonders. It is the tallest and most attractive building in the world, with a height of 828m. The grand structure is in the city’s heart and is a hive of activity day and night.
The world’s tallest building allows you to capture the unmatchable view of the city of Dubai with your eyes. Indeed, viewing the spectacle from the street is exciting enough, but you can also climb to the top of the 160-story behemoth. You should get ready for the excitement of the high-speed elevators before you experience complete awe when you step onto the observation deck.
There are several things to do in Burj Khalifa. You can enjoy the high tea on the 148th floor along with the stunning view of the city. Moreover, you can explore the exhibition that allows you to pay tribute to the traditional arts and crafts on the 125th floor.
Highlights:
- Breathtaking city views from the observation decks.
- Interactive exhibits detailing the tower’s construction.
- Sunset visits offer stunning photo opportunities.
2. Explore The Dubai Mall
Adjacent to the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall is not just a shopping destination but an entertainment hub. It houses over 1,200 retail outlets, an indoor ice rink, and the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.
Highlights:
- Dubai Aquarium with a massive viewing panel.
- Indoor ice skating rink.
- VR Park offers immersive virtual reality experiences.
3. Experience a Desert Safari
Desert Safari in Dubai is a place that will allow you to explore unmatchable experiences. You should start your desert safari with dune bashing. You will take a tour of the Dubai desert on a safari adventure that will allow you to marvel at the beautiful view of the dunes.
This desert safari will allow you to create unforgettable moments and capture eye-catching photos at the time of sunset. Moreover, it will allow you to enjoy a BBQ or barbeque dinner on a starry night. You will have the chance to choose between non-vegetarian and vegetarian dishes. As you unwind at the campsite following your Dubai desert safari, you can take in a live performance of belly dancing, a Tanoura dance performance, and a fire show as well.
Highlights:
- Thrilling 4×4 dune bashing.
- Sunset photography opportunities.
- Cultural performances like belly dancing and Tanoura shows.
4. Visit Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah is an artificial archipelago resembling a palm tree. It’s home to luxury hotels, including Atlantis The Palm, and offers upscale dining and entertainment options.
Highlights:
- Aquaventure Waterpark with record-breaking slides.
- The Lost Chambers Aquarium.
- Scenic monorail rides along the palm.
5. Stroll Through Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is a man-made canal city known for its skyscrapers, restaurants, and vibrant nightlife. The Marina Walk offers a picturesque promenade lined with cafes and boutiques.
Highlights:
- Dhow cruises offer dinner and entertainment.
- Jet skiing and other water sports.
- Panoramic views of the city skyline.
6. Wander Around Dubai Creek
Dubai Creek is the historic heart of the city, dividing it into Deira and Bur Dubai. Traditional abra boats ferry passengers across the water, offering a glimpse into Dubai’s past.
Highlights:
- Visits to the Gold and Spice Souks.
- Exploration of Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood.
- Cultural experiences at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.
7. Relax at Jumeirah Beach
Jumeirah Beach offers a stretch of white sand with clear blue waters, perfect for sunbathing and swimming. The beach provides stunning views of the Burj Al Arab.
Highlights:
- Water sports like paddleboarding and jet skiing.
- Beachfront cafes and restaurants.
- Children’s play areas and jogging tracks.
8. Marvel at the Dubai Miracle Garden
Open during the cooler months, the Dubai Miracle Garden is the world’s largest natural flower garden, featuring over 50 million blooming flowers arranged in intricate designs.
Highlights:
- Floral structures like the Emirates A380 plane.
- Heart-shaped pathways and themed gardens.
- Butterfly Garden houses thousands of species.
9. Visit the Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is a 150-meter-high structure resembling a giant picture frame, offering panoramic views of both old and new Dubai from its glass bridge.
Highlights:
- An interactive museum detailing Dubai’s transformation.
- Glass-floored sky deck for thrilling views.
- Stunning photo opportunities.
10. Ski at Ski Dubai
Located in the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort offering snowboarding, skiing, and penguin encounters, providing a winter experience in the desert.
Highlights:
- Five ski runs of varying difficulty.
- Snow Park with tobogganing and ice caves.
- Meet and greet with Snow Penguins.
11. Watch the Dubai Fountain Show
Set on the Burj Khalifa Lake, the Dubai Fountain features the world’s largest choreographed fountain system, with water jets shooting up to 150 meters in the air, synchronized to music.
Highlights:
- Evening shows every 30 minutes.
- A variety of music genres from classical to contemporary.
- Best viewed from the Dubai Mall promenade or nearby restaurants.
12. Explore the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Located inside the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is a favorite amongst both adults and kids. This place has an ambient tunnel aquarium, which is amongst the world’s largest aquariums.
Here you will find over 30,000 aquatic animals, including the largest population of sand tiger sharks. Visitors to the Underwater Zoo can see various animals, including penguins, crabs, piranhas, water rats, jellyfish, sea horses, and many more. Last but not least, this aquarium and underwater zoo will allow you to explore the large collection of sand tiger sharks, which will be a treat to watch.
Highlights:
- 10-million-liter tank with diverse marine life.
- Glass-bottom boat rides.
- Interactive exhibits and feeding sessions.
13. Experience Global Village
Global Village is a seasonal cultural and entertainment destination featuring pavilions from over 90 countries, offering shopping, dining, and live performances.
Highlights:
- Cultural shows and concerts.
- International cuisines and street food.
- Carnival rides and games.
14. Visit the Dubai Museum
Housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, the Dubai Museum offers insights into the city’s history and heritage, showcasing artifacts and exhibits from traditional Emirati life.
Highlights:
- Life-size dioramas depicting historical scenes.
- Ancient artifacts and archaeological findings.
- Interactive displays on pearl diving and desert life.
15. Attend a Performance at Dubai Opera
Dubai Opera is a multi-format performing arts center located in Downtown Dubai, hosting a variety of shows including opera, ballet, concerts, and theater productions.
Highlights:
- State-of-the-art acoustics and architecture.
Diverse programming featuring international artists. - Elegant dining options within the venue.
These activities showcase the diverse experiences Dubai has to offer, blending modern attractions with cultural heritage. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural enrichment, Dubai caters to all interests, ensuring a memorable visit.
Related: Theme Parks in Dubai
Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
- Visit Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo to see sharks, rays, and thousands of sea creatures up close.
- Spend the day at LEGOLAND Dubai, where interactive rides and building zones bring LEGO to life.
- Explore IMG Worlds of Adventure with zones themed around Marvel, dinosaurs, and cartoons.
- Watch colorful butterflies flutter at the Dubai Butterfly Garden, home to thousands of species.
- Enjoy water fun at Aquaventure Waterpark with kid-friendly slides and splash zones.
Things to Do in Dubai for Free
- Watch the Dubai Fountain Show, a mesmerizing water and light performance near Burj Khalifa.
- Stroll through Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood and experience traditional Emirati architecture.
- Explore JBR Beach and its lively boardwalk without spending a dirham.
- Visit Souk Madinat Jumeirah for window shopping with scenic canal views.
- Enjoy a peaceful walk along the Dubai Marina Promenade, lined with lights and cafes.
Things to Do in Dubai with Family
- Embark on a Desert Safari for dune bashing, camel rides, and a Bedouin-style dinner show.
- Wander through the colorful blooms of Dubai Miracle Garden, great for family photos.
- Ride the monorail to Atlantis The Palm and explore its fun-packed attractions.
- Discover wildlife and nature at the Dubai Safari Park with themed zones.
- Catch a movie or play indoor games at The Dubai Mall’s family entertainment centers.
Read More: Beach Clubs in Dubai
Things to Do in Dubai for Couples
- Dine at a rooftop restaurant like At.mosphere in Burj Khalifa with city skyline views.
- Take a romantic dhow cruise through Dubai Creek or Marina with live music and dinner.
- Watch the sunset together from the top of the Dubai Frame or Sky Views Observatory.
- Relax at a luxury spa or enjoy a couples massage at one of Dubai’s top resorts.
- Explore the art and ambiance of Infinity des Lumières, a digital immersive gallery.
Fun Activities in Dubai for Adults
- Skydive over The Palm Jumeirah for an unbeatable adrenaline rush and view.
- Sip cocktails at a chic rooftop bar in Downtown or the Marina.
- Enjoy live performances at Dubai Opera, from musicals to ballet.
- Try your luck or strategy in an escape room or virtual reality game center.
- Explore world cuisines at Global Village, offering food, shopping, and cultural shows.
Are Dubai’s Major Attractions Suitable for Families With Kids?
Absolutely. Dubai is known for being family-friendly, offering a range of attractions for all age groups. Parks like Dubai Aquarium, IMG Worlds of Adventure, Dubai Miracle Garden, and LEGOLAND are specially designed to engage children. Even cultural sites and desert safaris often provide child-friendly experiences such as camel rides, playgrounds, and interactive museums.
Is Dubai Expensive for Tourists?
Dubai can be both luxurious and budget-friendly, depending on your preferences. High-end experiences like fine dining, luxury hotels, and private tours can be expensive, but there are many affordable alternatives. Public beaches, metro transportation, local eateries, and free attractions like The Dubai Fountain and Al Fahidi Historical District make Dubai accessible for budget-conscious travelers, too.
Do I Need to Book Dubai Attractions in Advance?
For major attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, Desert Safaris, and Dubai Opera, it’s recommended to book in advance, especially during peak season (November–March). Online bookings often provide discounted rates and allow you to skip long queues. For more flexible plans, tickets for malls, beaches, and public areas can often be purchased on-site.
What Should I Wear When Exploring Dubai?
Dubai is a modern and multicultural city, but it’s important to dress modestly in public areas out of respect for local customs. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal due to the climate. In malls, religious sites, and traditional areas, it’s best to cover your shoulders and knees. Swimwear is acceptable at the beach or pools, but not in public areas beyond those spaces.
Conclusion
Home to the world’s tallest building, Dubai is a city where anything is possible. It’s a modern wonder with a diverse culture and a unique future. From architectural marvels to the world’s biggest mall, this article has covered the top 6 things to do in Dubai. Do visit them when you are in Dubai to make the most of the city.
