The Thorough Guide to Dubai: The 56 best things to do in Dubai

A complete list of everything to do in Dubai, UAE.

Just 50 years ago, Dubai was a small town in the edge of the desert and now one of the most up-and-coming, luxurious cities in the world. Home to the second most five-star hotels in the world (after London), a seven-star hotel and the tallest building in the world, Dubai is like no other city in the world! In fact, you’ll see a theme develop throughout this article – Dubai likes to have the biggest and best things. There are countless record-breaking and award winning attractions to discover.

Tourism plays a big part in Dubai’s economy. In 2018 Dubai welcomed 15.93 million visitors, retaining its ranking as the fourth most popular destination globally. As a relatively young city, Dubai is still growing. 1/4 of the world’s cranes are located in Dubai – that’s about 30,000 cranes! It’s no wonder then that Dubai is quickly becoming one of the hottest holiday destination on the planet.

Time needed: 4-10 days.

When to go: September-April for sunny weather but to avoid the scorching temperatures.

Weather: Averages of 14°C-23°C in the Winter and 38°C-42°C in the Summer.

Language: Arabic.

Currency: United Arab Emirates Dirham.

Dubai’s Iconic Attractions

1) Burj Khalifa

At over 828 metres (2,716.5 feet) and 163 floors, Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. Visitors can visit 3 decks for 360° panoramic views of the entire city. You might recognise it from Mission: Impossible – Ghost Protocol where Tom Cruise performs death-defying stunts on the outside of the building (but unfortunately he wasn’t there when we visited).

This iconic Y-shaped building is a feat of human engineering and holds many world records, including:

• Tallest structure ever built: 829.8 m (2,722 ft)
• Building with most floors: 163
• World’s longest travel distance elevators: 504 m (1,654 ft)
• World’s highest installation of an aluminium and glass façade: 512 m (1,680 ft)
• World’s highest nightclub: 144th floor
• World’s highest restaurant (At.mosphere): 122nd floor at 442 m (1,450 ft)
• World’s highest New Year display of fireworks
• World’s largest light and sound show staged on a single building

There are a few different ways to experience the Burj Khalifa. Take a trip up the inside on a tour or visit the observations decks, all of which involve taking one of the 57 fastest double-deck lifts in the world, cruising at 10m/s.

At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY

Levels 148, 125 & 124

At 555 metres (1,821 ft) high, level 148 offers visitors a guided tour before they head down to levels 125 and 124.

At the Top, Burj Khalifa

Levels 125 & 124

Explore the 360° observation decks at levels 125 and 124 for as along as you like! At 456 meters, level 125 offers a spacious deck tastefully decorated in Arabic mashrabiya. Level 124 offers access to an outdoor terrace.

Buy your ticket here: Burj Khalifa Level 124 & 125 Entry Ticket

The Lounge, Burj Khalifa

Levels 154, 153 & 152

Tea in the Clouds (inclusive of a tour of the outdoor terrace) or Bubbly Sundowner (inclusive of a glass of house beverage or bubbly, complimented by gourmet canapes).

Pro-tip: Book a slot 90 minutes before sunset to see the whole of Dubai by day and night! There are also sunrise slots bookable on Friday and Saturday during winter.

Got cash to splash? Why not stay at the world’s first Armani hotel Dubai, which occupies the concourse level through to level 8 and levels 38 and 39. Or enjoy a 3-course set lunch at the Armani Deli. Visit The Burj Club to take advantage of the luxurious Gym, Spa or Rooftop restaurant. Or dine in the world’s tallest restaurant, At.mosphere, located on the 122nd floor.

Metro: Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa station, where there are frequent feeder buses to The Dubai Mall. From the mall, walk to the Lower Ground Floor (LG) for the ticket counter.

Metro Link Bridge: The glass tunnel between Burj Khalifa Station and The Dubai Mall is fully air-conditioned and has travellators for ease of access.

Bus: Two buses service The Dubai Mall every 15 minutes: route 27 from the Deira Gold Souk station and route 29 from Ghubaiba bus station. The buses arrive and depart from the tourist drop-off area located in front of the Grand Drive Entrance, Lower Ground Floor of The Dubai Mall.

Taxi: You can get to The Dubai Mall by booking Careem or Uber.

2) The Dubai Fountain

The Burj Khalifa is not only the world’s tallest building, but is also home to the world’s tallest and largest performing fountain. At more than 274 metres (900 ft) in length, the 30-acre Burj Lake shoots 22,000 gallons of water up 152 metres (500 ft) in the air in a breath-taking display. The shows are free and run every 30 minutes in the evenings to a range of music, including classical, contemporary Arabia and pop.

If you want to get up close and personal, Burj Khalifa offer a couple of immersive packages:

The Dubai Fountain Lake Ride – Set sail on a traditional Abra on the Burj Lake.

The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk – A brand-new floating platform located within The Dubai Fountain, The Boardwalk allows you to get closer than ever. Start your journey from Burj Park or Fountain promenade and stroll down the 272-metre boardwalk, with the closest point putting you only 9 metres away from the fountains!

Pro-tip: The terrace of the Apple store offers an incredible platform to watch the fountain from.

Other Water Experiences – pedal boats, kayaks, water bikes.

Hours: 18:00-23:00 (every 30 mins) daily; 13:00 & 13.30 Saturday-Thursday; 13.30 & 14:00 Friday

3) Burj Al Arab

The pinnacle of luxury, Dubai’s Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is one of the most iconic buildings in the world. This sail-shaped building is a one of a kind 7-star hotel. Located on a manmade island that is linked to the mainland by a private bridge, this luxury hotel possesses the world’s largest fleet of Rolls Royces, butler service, 24 karat gold iPads, and a rooftop helipad.

Experience the hotel as a guest – choose from 202 opulent suites, which range from AED 25400 to 127000 (£5000 to 25,000) a night.

Or relax in the 150m high Talise Spa. Take a dip in the sky-high infinity pool or work out in the world-class fitness centre.

Hours: Spa facilities: 06:00-22:00, daily; Spa treatments: 11:00-20:00, daily

For exquisite dining, choose between six award-winning signature restaurants and two incredible cocktail bars.

Pro tip: Get to the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah an hour early and ask your taxi to drop you off at the main gate rather than the lobby. Ask the security guard if you can wander the grounds of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel before your slot.

We did this and got to explore the hotel grounds before we entered the Burj Al Arab. The grounds are large with plenty of great views back to the Burj Al Arab. The private beach and marina can offer great photo spots.

We’d also recommend booking in an hour before sunset, as this allows to soak up the evening sunshine, but also experience Dubai lit up at night. All the upper floors of the hotel offer incredible views over the city and a witnessing a Dubai sunset is an experience that shouldn’t be missed.

Don’t worry if everything seems a little out of your price range. Dubai may be one of the most luxurious places in the world, but that doesn’t mean you can’t do it on a budget!

Read next: Dubai on a budget – is it possible?

4) The Palm

The Palm Islands are three artificial islands: Palm Jumeirah, Deira Island and Palm Jebel Ali off the coast of Dubai. The Palm Jumeirah is the only completed island, housing a number of hotels, resorts and restaurants. Here you’ll find the first monorail in the Middle East, a 5.4-kilometre-long (3.4 mi) journey from the mainland to the tip of the Palm.

Situated at the end of the manmade archipelago is Atlantis, a 1548-room ocean-themed 5-star resort. With soaring pink turrets and a distinctive Arabian archway, this hotel offers other-worldly luxury, combining incredible views with thrilling activities, including free access to an underwater aquarium and a waterpark.

Visit The lost Chambers Aquarium, where 65,000 marine animals swim in the Ambassador Lagoon.

Hours: 10:00-21:00 daily

Prices: Aquarium: From AED 110; Fish Tales Tour: AED 45

Pro-tip: If you wander around the Atlantis you can actually view a few of the tanks for free!

Or get wet at Aquaventure, the world’s largest waterpark, with 79 slides.

Hours: 10:00-18:30 daily, closed Sundays

Prices: Day Pass: From AED 269; Super Pass: AED 289

5) Dubai Frame

Also known as Berwaz Dubai, Dubai Frame comprises two 150 metre towers, connected by a 95 metre long bridge. Designed to represent a metaphorical connection between the old and new city you can take a one-hour tour for unique views of ‘old’ and ‘new’ Dubai from the sky-high glass bridge. It is also said to be the largest picture frame in the world!

Hours: 09:00-21:00 daily

Prices: Adults: AED 50, Children (3-12): AED 20, Children under 3/People of determination: free

Shopping in Dubai

6) The Dubai Mall

If you haven’t already, you’ll spot a theme in this article – Dubai likes to have the best and biggest things! The Dubai Mall is also the world’s largest shopping centre! Escape the heat and enjoy some air conditioned retail therapy (or window shopping) in over 1,200 shops. There are plenty of activities on offer, from meeting the resident dinosaur to taking a spin on the Ice Rink. Visit the Virtual Reality Theme Park for a taste of the future in one of the many VR games on offer. Home to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, you can also marvel at 300 sharks and countless species of fish completely free from the outside of the ginormous tank. With all this to offer it’s no wonder The Dubai Mall draws in almost 100 million visitors a year.

Hours and prices: The Mall: 10:00-00:00 daily, free; The Aquarium: 10:00-22:0 Sun–Wed; 10:00-23:00 Thu-Sat, from AED 169; Ice Rink: 12:00-22:00 Sun-Wed; 10:00-22:00 Thu-Sat, from AED 72.25; VR: 10:00-23:00 Sun-Wed; 10:00-01:00 Thu-Sat, AED 15.

7) Mall of Emirates

The world’s first shopping resort, the Mall of Emirates features about 630+ brands, in an area of 233,467 sqm. Visit Dreamscape, a ‘Free Roam’ Virtual Reality world filled with adorable Toothless dragons, alien zoos and fantastic beasts. Or take a trip to Magic Planet, a popular award-winning family entertainment centre with a great selection of video and arcade games. For adrenaline junkies, Snow Park is packed with icy activities, from ice cave to skiing. Check out the Adrenaline section later for more!

Hours and prices: The mall: 10:00-22:00 Monday-Wednesday, 10:00-00:00 Friday-Sunday, free; Dreamscape: 11:00-00:00 daily, AED 78.75; Snow Park: 10:00-00:00 Sunday-Thursday, 9:00-00:00 Friday-Saturday.

8) Dubai Marina Mall

Located in the up and coming region of Dubai Marina, Dubai Marina Mall is a 4-level shopping centre with 130 outlets within 390,000 square foot (36,200 m2) space. Here you’ll find high street fashion brands, boutique fashion, waterfront dining with many restaurants to choose from, supermarket, beverage outlets, kids playground and the luxurious 6-screen Reel Cinemas.

While you’re in the marina, why not visit the Dubai Marina Walk – one of the best options to enjoy shopping, dining and exploring the marina as there are 69 eateries and 306 shopping outlets.

9) Ibn Battuta Mall

In this largest themed shopping mall in Dubai, explore the courts of China, India, Persia, Egypt, Tunisia and Andalusia. With shops, restaurants, hotels and an entertainment centre, Ibn Battuta Mall has something for everyone. There’s even a bowling alley and cinema for when you need a break from all that retail therapy.

Hours: 10:00-22:00 Saturday-Wednesday, 10:00-00:00 Thursday-Friday.

10) Souk Madinat Jumeirah

For those that don’t know, a Souk is an Arab market or marketplace. In this traditional Arabian bazaar you can find local treasures, from spices to slippers to locally made jewellery. With 3km of waterways and surrounded by lush gardens, Souk Madinat Jumeirah has a lots to offer, including plenty of top-class restaurants, bars and shops.

Hours: Shops: 10:00–23:00 daily, Restaurants: 08:00–02:00

11) Old Town Souks

A trip to Dubai is not complete without a trip to the souk! There are plenty to choose from: buy fresh herbs, spices, ingredients or remedies in the Spice Souk or pick up fabric or garments in the Textiles Souk. It is estimated that the Gold Souk is home to as much as ten tonnes of gold and there are dozens of jewellery shops offering some incredible souvenirs.

• Spice SoukLocation: Deira, Near Al Ras Metro Station
  Hours: 10:00-14:00 daily & 16:00-22:00; 16:00-22:00 Fridays
• Gold SoukLocation: Deira, Near Al Ras Metro Station
  Hours: 10:00-22:00 daily (Some shops close 13:00-16:00); 16:00-22:00 Fridays
• Textile SoukLocation: Bur Dubai, Near Bur Dubai Abra Station
  Hours: 10:00-22:00 daily; 16:00-22:00 Fridays
• Perfume SoukLocation: Deira, Sikkat Al Khali Street, Near Al Ras Metro Station
  Hours: 10:00-14:00 daily & 16:00-22:00; 16:00-22:00 Fridays

Theme and Water Parks and Resorts in Dubai

Speaking of waterparks, Aquaventure isn’t the only option in Dubai to cool down.

12) Wild Wadi Waterpark

Check out Wild Wadi Waterpark, which has 30 rides and attractions to enjoy. Plummet down the main attraction, Jumeirah Sceirah tower which has two 32 metre-high tandem slides, at 80km/h .

Hours: 10:00-18:00 Tuesday-Sunday, Closed Mondays

Prices: Adults: AED 270, Children under 1.1m: AED 220, 50% off disability access

13) Laguna Waterpark

Or combine your trip with a beach day! Dubai’s Laguna Waterpark is located next to La Mer, an up and coming beach destination. It’s also is the only place in the Middle East where you’ll find a full, 180-degree wave machine, on which you can try your hand at surfing or bodyboarding.

Hours: 10:00-18:00 Tuesday-Sunday, Closed Mondays

Prices: Day Pass – AED 195 at the gate / AED 99 online

14) Dubai Parks and Resorts

Dubai Parks and Resorts is the Middle East’s largest integrated theme park destination, housing 3 theme parks and a water park. At 25 million square feet this multi-themed leisure and entertainment destination

15) Motiongate

For immersive and creative storytelling, visit Motiongate where you can explore three of the largest and most successful motion picture studios in Hollywood:

• DreamWorks Animation
• Columbia Pictures
• Lionsgate

The park feature 27 rides and attractions themed on movies and even includes Smurfs Village.

Hours: 11:00-20:00 Saturday-Wednesday, 11:00-21:00 Thursday-Friday

16) Bollywood Parks

Split into six zones, Bollywood Parks immerse you in some of the greatest Bollywood blockbusters of all time.

• Bollywood Boulevard
• Mumbai Chowk
• Rustic Ravine
• Royal Plaza
• Bollywood Film Studios
• Mela Junction

Hours: 15:00-11:00 daily

17) Legoland

With 60 interactive rides and 15,000 Lego models, Legos come to life at Legoland Dubai. The theme park was created from 60 million Legos and encompasses six lands, indoor (air conditioned!) and out. In the Summer you can cool down in the Legoland Waterpark, with 20 water slides and attractions designed especially for families with kids aged 2-12.

Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Opposite Palm Jebel Ali

Hours: Legoland: 11:00-18:00 Sunday, Monday & Wednesday, 11:00-19:00 Thursday- Saturday, Closed Tuesday
Waterpark: 10:00-18:00 Thursday-Tuesday, Closed Wednesday

Prices: Save up to 30% by booking in advance online: 2 Park Pass, 1 day – Legoland Dubai and Legoland Waterpark: AED 295; Motiongate, Bollywood Parks, Legoland or Legoland Waterpark: AED 295, Children under 3: free; 1 Park Pass, 1 day – Bollywood Parks: AED 275; Motiongate: AED 275, Children under 3: free; Legoland: AED 275, Children under 3: free; Legoland Waterpark: AED 275, Children under 3: free

18) IMG Worlds of Adventure

The world’s largest indoor theme and amusement park at 1.5-million-square-feet, IMG Worlds of Adventure makes for a pretty epic day. Make sure to try the high-speed Velociraptor roller coaster, which reaches 100kph in 2.5 seconds. Also in the Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure Zone, which is home to 69 animatronic dinosaurs, is the gravity-defying Predator, featuring a 35-metre “beyond vertical” drop.

Hours: 12:00-18:00 Sunday-Thursday, 12:00-20:00 Friday-Saturday

Prices: Adults: AED 257, Children under 1.2m: AED 236, Children under 1.05m: free

Museums in Dubai

For all you history buffs out there (or just those of you who want to escape the heat and find some air conditioning!) Dubai has its fair share of museums to choose from.

19) Etihad Museum

Lying on the site where the country’s unification was signed in 1971, this ultra-modern museum offers a comprehensive look at the formation of the seven Emirates that make up the UAE. Covering 25,000 sqm and containing educating yet interesting exhibitions, a visit to this museum is crucial to a well-rounded UAE visit.

Hours: 10:00-20:00 daily

Prices: Adult: AED 25, Group: AED 20, Student: AED 10, People of Determination: free, Child: free

20) Coffee Museum

Located in Al Fahidi, this cosy space explores the roasting & brewing styles from around the world. The Coffee Museum is also a coffee shop and you can sip on a cup of coffee while watching a roasting demonstration, which lends the museum its lovely aroma. There are also displays of antiques, including a 300-year-old coffee pot. Entry is free, but the coffee isn’t!

21) Al Shindagha Museum: Perfume House

Stimulate your senses and indulge in the enticing world of Emirati perfume making. Learn about the traditional techniques for making scented oils and perfumes that date back centuries on an aromatic journey through the museum.

Hours: 10:00-20:00 Wednesday-Monday, Closed Tuesdays

Price: AED 40

22) Museum of Illusions

Trick your eyes and entertain your mind at the Museum of Illusions

Hours: 10:00-22:00 Sunday-Thursday, 10:00-23:00 Friday-Saturday

Prices: Adult 16+: AED 80, Children 5-15: AED 60, Family (4): AED 225, Senior/Student: AED 70, Family & Friend (5): AED 320

Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi Fort

Built in 1787 as the premises of the monarch and a fort of defence, this fort later turned into an arsenal for artillery and weapons. Opened as an official museum in 1971, it displayed the history of Dubai and its original heritage. Unfortunately it is now under renovation until further notice, but will hopefully be back one day to serve more tourists a rich, full and integral knowledge of the very old history of Dubai.

Cultural Attractions in Dubai

23) Dubai Opera House

Dubai’s futuristic looking opera house is actually the only one in the UAE. Take a backstage tour to discover behind the scenes secrets or take an architecture tour to explore the stunning Dhow themed designs. Both take around 45 minutes. Or why not explore the Events page and catch a show? Choose from a variety of programming from West End shows to opera – there’s something for everyone!

Pro-tip: Grab a drink on the rooftop bar before the show for stunning views of the Burj Khalifa and dancing fountains.

Prices: Backstage: AED 95, Children 7-16: AED 6; Architecture Tour: Adult: AED 75; Children 3-16: AED 40

24) Global Village

Dubai’s Global Village combines the cultures of 90 countries across the world in one place. With themed stalls, shows, presentations and attractions it has become a global-themed part-funfair, part-cultural festival. There a plenty of fun activities for all the family, from shopping to shows, street food to funfair & fireworks on weekends.

Hours: October-April – 16:00-00:00 Saturday-Wednesday, 16:00- 01:00 Thursday & Friday, Mondays are exclusively reserved for families and ladies, except those falling on a public holiday

Price: AED 15

25) Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

This charming neighbourhood offers a glimpse into old Dubai before the Emirates were formed in 1971: buildings with high air towers (Barajeel), built with traditional building materials such as stone, gypsum, teak, sandal wood, fronds and palm wood are aligned side by side, separated by alleys, pathways and public squares. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding offer a variety of cultural meals and walking tours. For a better understanding of Dubai, book the 90 minute Emirati Heritage Tour, which includes a walk through the Al Bastakiya neighborhood of the Al Fahidi Historic District and a visit to the Diwan Mosque. Guests then return to the SMCCU house for a cultural discovery Q&A session and will be treated to Arabic tea, coffee and dates.

Hours: 10:30 Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday, 9:00 Saturdays

Price: AED 65, Buy One Get One Free offer available

26) Mawaheb from Beautiful People

Located in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, this art studio is a place where adults with special needs (known as people of determination) can learn artistic skills and develop their self confidence in a relaxed, safe environment. An educational, artistic facility that is designed to do good for the Dubai community, it produces gorgeous artwork that’s even visible in some of DXB Airport’s largest concourses. All proceeds of sold art go back into the studio.

Hours: 08.30-14.30 Sunday-Thursday

27) Al Seef

A heritage neighbourhood-meets-creekside destination, Al Seef is split between two distinct districts along a 1.1 mile (1.8km) boardwalk on the banks of Dubai Creek. On one side you’ll find a representation of New Dubai, with stylish, modern exteriors, while on the other side sits a representation of historical, traditional Dubai, with classic architecture. Full of restaurants and shops, you can sample flavours from around the world from Arabic to American, Indian to Emirati. Or simply take in the stunning views of Dubai’s historic creek, traditional dhows and old-world architecture.

28) Jumeirah Grand Mosque

Opened in 1979, Jumeirah Grand Mosque was a gift from the Late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the former Ruler of Dubai and father of the current Ruler of Dubai HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The Mosque can accommodate approximately 1500 worshippers and is the only mosque in Dubai that’s open to non-Muslim visitors. Crafted entirely from white stone in the medieval Fatimid style, which originated from Syria and Egypt, the Mosque adopts an ‘Open Doors, Open Minds’ policy, allowing visitors of all faiths to visit. As with most places in the UAE, modest clothing is preferred and ladies are required to bring their own head cover/scarf.

Hours: 10:00-14:00 daily, Closed Fridays

Prices: Entry: free; Guided Tour: AED 25

29) The Ripe Market

The Ripe Market is an outdoor community market featuring up-and-coming artisans, makers, and entrepreneurs. There’s plenty to buy, including local produce, unique toys, take-home gifts, as well as lots going on: workshops, live music, fitness classes, educational activities, horse riding and even a petting zoo.

Shows and Concerts in Dubai

30) Theatre of Digital Art

TODA, the Theatre of Digital Art, is the first of its kind in Dubai, offering art aficionados in the UAE the chance to experience masterpieces via digital shows Accompanied by stunning music, visual effects and surround sound, you can explore multimedia exhibitions, contemporary immersive installations, and art in virtual reality.

Hours: 12:00-23:00 daily

Prices: Prices start from – Adults: AED 75, Children: AED 45

31) Hindi Lane

Sitting snugly between Meena Bazaar and the Creek, Hindi Lane is a narrow and vibrant alleyway lined with vendors selling religious paraphernalia and offerings, including baskets of fruit, flower garlands, gold-embossed holy images, sacred ash and sandalwood paste. Dedicated to Shiva and Krishna, it’s best to visit around Diwali when the store fronts are strewn with an array of flashing, multicoloured fairy lights and lit with candles.

32) La Perle

Created by world-renowned Artistic Director, Franco Dragone and located in the heart of al habtoor city, this spectacular show combines acrobatics, water stunts, motorbikes and more. It is a live theatre spectacle that must be seen at least once!

Hours: 09:00-23:00 Tuesday-Saturday, Closed Sunday & Monday

Prices: Tickets start from AED 119

33) Alserkal Avenue

Alserkal Avenue is an industrial compound hosting warehouses and is an arts and culture district for Dubai. With a line-up of galleries, dance studios, artisanal cafés, pop-up shops, concept spaces, platforms and more the area is an art lover’s dream.

Hours: 10:00-19:00, daily

Prices: Free

The best beaches in Dubai

34) Jumeirah Public Beach

Also known as Sunset Beach, Jumeirah public beach offers stunning views of the Burj Al Arab. It is also Dubai’s last surfing beach, with small to medium waves that are perfect for beginners.

Facilities: Toilets, showers, changing cubicles and wi-fi via Smart Palms.

Hours: 24 hours but swimming only until sunset

Price: Free

35) Jumeirah Beach Residence

Also known as JBR, Jumeirah Beach Residence offers 1.1 mile (1.7 km) long waterfront community, located against the Persian Gulf in Dubai Marina. Check out The Walk, a popular promenade where you can shop or dine in one of the many cafés and restaurants.

Facilities: Showers, toilets and changing rooms housed in distinctive panelled pods, splash zone, and an outdoor gym.

Hours: 07:00-23:00

Price: Free

36) Al Mamzar Beach Park

Five pristine beaches for sunbathing or swimming.

Facilities: Swimming pool, playgrounds, picnic areas with barbecues, water sports and bicycle rentals, snack bars, lawns, Smart Palms for wi-fi access and air-conditioned cabanas.

Hours: 08:00-22:00 Sunday-Wednesday; 08:00-23:00 Thursday-Saturday. Ladies day: Monday & Wednesday

Price: AED 5 per person, AED 30 per car

37) Kite Beach

For those of you who enjoy activities, such as kitesurfing, beach tennis, beach volleyball and kayaking, Kite Beach, is for you! On Fridays and Saturdays, a seaside market of food trucks, cafés and pop-up shops is set up, luring in the crowds.

Facilities: Showers, wi-fi, toilets and changing areas.

Hours: 24 hours but swimming only until sunset

Price: Free

38) Club Mina

A private beach attached to Le Meridien, Club Mina is a family favourite. With a menu of cocktails available for adults in the swim-up bar.

Facilities: Five pools (including a shaded one for kids), a children’s club and a water-sports centre.

Hours: 07:00-21:00

Prices: During the week -Adults: AED 200, Children: AED 125; During public holidays and weekends – Adults: AED 300, Children: AED 175. Children get free admission on Tuesdays.

39) Nikki Beach Dubai

In this Dubai branch of the famous Miami beach club, this 5-star lifestyle beachfront resort, features spectacular views of the Arabian Gulf. Lounge on daybeds, load up on seafood and toast the sunset with a glass of bubbly at Nikki Beach Resort & Spa.

Hours: 08:00-20:00

Prices: Free; Bed from AED 150

40) La Mer

La Mer is one of Dubai’s newest beachfront destinations, opened in 2018, offering shops, restaurants, a waterpark, a beachfront with hammocks and a huge play park.

Hours: 10:00-20:00 Sunday to Wednesday, 10:00-00:00 Thursday to Saturday; Swimming only until sunset

Prices: Free

Gardens and Nature in Dubai

Dubai may be situated on a desert and be famous for city-side beaches, but that doesn’t mean there’s no gardens! Check out these attractions for lush greenery and stunning flowers.

41) Dubai Miracle Garden

With more than 150 million flowers in full bloom, this 72,000-sq-m paradise has flowered into one of the region’s most picturesque, sweet-scented destinations.

Hours: November-March: 09:00-21:00 Sunday-Thursday, 09:00-23:00, Friday-Saturday; Closed April-October

Prices: Adults: AED 40, Children (3-12): AED 30

42) Dubai Butterfly Garden

Right next door to the Miracle Garden is the Butterfly Garden, which is home to more than 15,000 butterflies from 26 species and more than 50 varieties. The garden consists of ten custom built domes, around 6,673 sqm, and is claimed to be the World’s Largest Covered Butterfly Garden.

Hours: 09:00-18:00 daily

Prices: AED 55; Group packages available

43) The Green Planet

The Green Planet is a tropical rainforest within a bio-dome, which shelter colourful birds, reptiles & sloths. Explore this enchanting attraction which houses over 3000 plants and animals. Don’t miss the tropical thunderstorm that happens at 13:00 and 17:00 every day!

Hours: 10:00-18:00 daily

Prices: At the gate: AED 120; Online: AED 89

44) Dubai Garden Glow

Discover elaborate, whimsical flower & animal displays constructed out of handmade colourful lights at Dubai Garden Glow. You can also visit the Dinosaur Park, Magic Park, Ice Park and Art Park!

Hours: 17:00-22:00 Saturday-Thursday, 17:00-22:30 Friday & Public Holidays

Prices: AED 65

Taking a boat trip in Dubai

There’s no better way to experience Dubai than from the water. And there are options for every budget, from a traditional Abra to a luxurious yacht.

45) Abra Ride Across Dubai Creek

For just AED 1 you can hop on one of the many traditional boats, known as abras, to cross the creek that separates Bur Dubai from Deira, Dubai’s city centre. These water taxis run every few minutes throughout the day across four stations along Dubai Creek:

• From Deira Old Souk Abra Station (near the Spice Souk) to Bur Dubai Abra Station (west of the Old Souk)
• From Al Sabkha Abra Station (just southwest of Baniyas Square) to Dubai Old Souk Abra Station

Each abra holds about 20 passengers, with 150 abras working the two routes. You simply buy a one-way ticket and each journey only takes about five minutes.

You can even hire your own abra for an hour to explore further up the creek!

46) Rent a yacht

If you want bit more luxury, why not push the boat out (whey!) and take a Dubai Marina tour? Take a slow-paced, panoramic evening tour of Dubai Marina and Palm Lagoon and witness an unforgettable sunset.

Hours: 18:00, 19:00 & 20:00

Prices: Adult: AED 175, Children (5-12): AED 120, Private charter: AED 1995

Or head out to sea on a private yacht with Xclusive Yachts, Dubai’s only 5 star Luxury Yacht Rental Company. There’s a wide variety of packages to choose from, all with different boats, times and prices.

Adrenaline Activities in Dubai

For all you adrenaline junkies out there, Dubai has probably the best selection of heart-pounding activities of any city in the world!

47) Dubai Wheel

Let’s start tame – take a trip on Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel, and soar more than 126m (820 ft) in the air! There are three different pod experiences on offer, starting from AED 130: observation cabins, social cabins and private cabins. Visitors can enjoy the 38-minute journey with unbeatable views and endless photo opportunities. Check out this photo we snapped in 2017 when the wheel was being built! Don’t worry though, it’s now a fully complete wheel.

48) Flying with Falcons by Balloon Adventures Dubai

Take an unforgettable and luxurious hot air balloon ride over the Dubai desert. As the longest operating balloon company in the UAE, Balloon Adventures Dubai have changed the hot air balloon game and invented a falconry twist to ballooning, exclusively available on all private balloon flights. Find out first hand how Falcons operate and function at altitude (4000 ft.)and see up close how the world’s fastest animal flies and lines up a target as it aims to strike.

Hours: Mornings and evenings

Prices: Adult: AED 1,250, Children: AED 1,100

49) Ski Dubai

Located in the Mall of Emirates, Ski Dubai offers a variety of activities & gives you a chance to ski, snowboard, meet the penguins, zip line or take a chairlift ride. The resort has 22,500 square meters of indoor ski area and maintains a chilly temperature of -1°C degree to 2°C throughout the year.

Hours: 10:00-00:00 Sunday-Thursday, 09:00-00:00 Friday-Saturday

Prices: Snow Park: AED 175; Snow Daycation Pass: AED 275; Snow Premium: AED 490: 2 hour slope: AED 220; Full day slope: AED 320

50) XLine Dubai

XLine zip line, the world’s longest steepest, and fastest urban zipwire, offers thrill seekers the chance to zoom over Dubai Marina at speeds of up to 50mph (80kph) at an incline of 16 degrees, headfirst in true Superman style. It’s one of the best ways to see the The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Eye and the coast line, while getting your adrenaline fix, too.

Hours: 9:00-17:00 daily

Prices: Solo ticket: AED 650; Double Trouble ticket: AED 1200; Young Adventurer ticket: AED 499; Family Ticket: AED 999

51) SkyDive Dubai

Ever fancied jumping out of a plane at speeds of 120mph over a man-made island? Well you can with SkyDive Dubai. Offering all the thrills of freefall with views of the city like you’ve never imagined. Experience the stunning view of the iconic Palm Jumeirah island from 13,000 ft. Or head 35 km outside Dubai and see the desert from a bird’s eye view. Beginners are welcome to jump in tandem with the company’s experienced guides.

Prices: The Palm: AED 2,299; Desert: AED 1,799

52) Helicopter Tour

If you want to see Dubai from the sky but don’t fancy falling out of a plane, why not book a helicopter tour? Choose between 4 tours:

• 12-minute Iconic Tour
• 17-minute Palm Tour
• 22-minute Vision Tour
• 40-minute Odyssey Tour

Prices: Iconic Tour: AED 646 per Person; Palm Tour: AED 814 per Person; Vision Tour: AED 1045 per person; Odyssey Tour: AED 1838 per person

53) Dinner in the Sky

Dinner in the Sky Dubai is no ordinary restaurant – the experience takes place 50 metres (nearly 165 ft) in the air, at a table that rotates ever so slowly over the course of an hour. Clip in your seatbelt and enjoy one of the one of the most unusual dining experiences on the planet, with incredible views of the Persian Gulf. Artful Dining by Le Meridien Mina Seyahi and The Westin Dubai are responsible for the menu, which ranges from burrata salads to Middle Eastern mezzes.

54) Jet Ski and Flyboard hire

Enjoy thrilling watersports with a stunning view of Dubai from the sea. Ride In Dubai specialises in Jet Ski and Flyboards. With high quality service and experienced, professional jetski & Flyboard instructors, watersports make for a great fun-packed day.

Prices: Jetski: From AED 250; Flyboard: From AED 270

55) Deep Dive Dubai

For a unique diving experience filled with adventure and wonder for beginners and professionals alike, visit Deep Dive Dubai. A world-record breaking facility allowing thrill-seekers to dive the 60-meter pool, the deepest in the world!

Hours: 12:00-20:00 Wednesday-Sunday

Prices: Discover Scuba: AED 1800; Discover Snorkelling: AED 400; Discover Freediving: AED 100; Guided scuba (30m): AED 1200; Guided freedive: AED 900; Guided scuba (60m): AED 1500

56) Al Marmoom Camel Race Track

A popular heritage destination, Al Marmoom offers an experience of the UAE heritage and culture like no other. The Al Marmoom Heritage Village and Al Marmoom Festivals are the venture of Dubai Camel Racing Club. Part of the annual heritage festival, watch as 100s of camels race. reaching speeds of up to 40 mph (65kmh).

Hours: Between October-April; 07:00-09:00 & 14:00-16:00

Price: Free but book in advance

We don’t support or condone any activity that makes money at the expense of an animal’s health or wellbeing. Read more about Ethical Wildlife Tourism here.

Read next: Let’s Talk About Ethical Wildlife Tourism

Interactive Dubai Map

Read next:

The 15 best day trips From Dubai

The best hotels, bars and restaurants in Dubai

What You Need to Know Before You Go to Dubai + Public Transport Map

Dubai on a Budget – is it possible?

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