15 Incredible Things To Do In Dubai

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I have grown up in Dubai and witnessed the city thrive. Highly progressive, it feels different every time you visit. From sparkling skyscrapers and distinctive arts to expansive deserts, stunning landscapes, breathtaking beaches, thrilling adventures, diverse dining, beautiful parks, theme parks, luxurious experiences, and ongoing events, Dubai sets the standard in every category.

Dubai feels like a breath of fresh air, and I can’t get enough of it. Plus, it is safe. I can walk around at night on my own without feeling concerned about my safety.

Having enjoyed most of Dubai’s attractions, I am excited to share my curated list of the best things to do in the city.

Before diving into the list, here’s a quick savings tip: Dubai has an efficient rapid transit rail network, the Dubai Metro, that makes commuting to major tourist spots very easy and reliable. Use the metro services to save both your time and money.

1. Hit Up The Impressive Burj Khalifa

This is the first attraction that will catch your eye in Dubai. Standing at a height of 829.8 meters (2722 feet), Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the World. This iconic structure has Observation Decks at the 124th and 148th floors, showcasing incredible panoramic views of the city.

The glass walls at these observation decks allow you to take a fascinating, picturesque tour of Dubai’s skyline. Sunset is the most worthy time to catch glimpses of the amazing, illuminating transition of Dubai from the Burj Khalifa. Visiting Burj Khalifa should be at the top of your Dubai itinerary.

So here are a few things that I recommend:

• To avoid the long waiting queues, make sure you purchase the tickets for the observation deck ‘At the top‘ in advance. If purchased from the ticket counter for the same day visiting, the tickets may get expensive or the slots will get filled.
• Get an access to the 124th, 125th and 148th floors featuring an outdoor terrace, luxury lounges and get served with Arabic Coffee and Dates by booking your tickets here.
• If you fantasize a special dine featuring Dubai’s amazing views and the mesmerizing Fountains at the 124th level of Burj Khalifa, make your reservations here.

Nearest Metro Station: Dubai Mall / Burj Khalifa Metro Station

2. Shop At The Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall is the world’s biggest shopping mall. It had also been declared as the most visited building in the year 2011, attracting over 54 million visitors each year.

The Dubai Mall comprises about 1200 shopping stores, a huge Ice Skating Rink, Dubai Fountains, numerous restaurants, cafes, the world’s largest sweet shop ‘Candylicious’, an exotic Aquarium, Kidzania, a Dinosaur fossil, 22 22-screen cinema, and much more.

There are so many activities within the mall to keep you entertained, making it a must-visit in Dubai. Dubai Mall is one of the best places to visit in Dubai, especially for shopaholics.

Nearest Metro Station: Dubai Mall / Burj Khalifa Metro Station

3. See The Dubai Fountains

Yes, there is still more to do at the Dubai Mall!

The Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed water fountain show. It’s wonderful and mesmerizing to see the fountains shoot up high in the air and dance on the musical tunes.

The fountains also have a perfectly synchronized and coordinated light effect during the evenings. You can view these fountains by getting a good place at the lake promenade or by reserving a place at one of the restaurants surrounding the Dubai Fountains.

Show Timings: The Dubai Fountain show takes place from 6 PM to 11 PM with an interval of 30 minutes between each show.

4. Visit The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Take a trip to one of the largest aquariums in the world, the Dubai Aquarium. Located centrally at the Dubai Mall, this enormous aquarium is home to 140 different aquatic species, more than 300 rays, and sharks. It also has the world’s largest collection of Sand Tiger Sharks.

Aquarium Tunnel and Underwater Zoo : AED 145 (USD 35) per person. Book in advance to avoid the huge queues.

5. Sip On The Gold Cappuccino At Burj Al Arab

Dubai’s most famous landmark, Burj Al Arab, is an extremely luxurious hotel and the third tallest hotel in the world. Visitors who have reservations at any restaurant within the hotel or those who have arrived to stay there are allowed to enter the hotel.

The restaurants in Burj Al Arab provide world-class dining experiences. The Al Mahara restaurant in Burj Al Arab is surrounded by a large aquarium and is accessible through a simulated submarine voyage.

Doesn’t that sound dreamy? The SkyView Bar at the 27th floor is also a famous restaurant that offers luxury dining while overlooking the gorgeous views of the city’s coastline.

If your budget can’t quite stretch that far, you can opt for a simple guided tour inside Burj Al Arab with optional beverages.

Nearest Metro Station: There is no direct metro to Burj Al Arab. The closest station is the Mall Of The Emirates Station, from where you can hire a cab to reach Burj Al Arab.

6. Soak In The Sunshine At Umm Suqeim Beach

When you are in Dubai, the beaches are gonna be the highlights of your entire trip. One of the best and picturesque beaches in Dubai is the Umm Suqeim Beach. The soft sands, clear waters, and a stunning view of the iconic Burj Al Arab Hotel makes it a must visit place in Dubai.

The activities you can indulge in at this beach are swimming, picnicking, and sunbathing.

Nearest Metro Station: There is no direct metro to the Umm Suqeim Beach. The nearest metro station is the Equiti station, from where you can take a cab to reach the beach. It’s just a 10-minute drive from the station.

7. Experience The Dubai Desert Safari

Spending a day in the desert is one of the unique things you get to do when you are in Dubai. You can go for Sand Boarding, Dune Bashing, Camel Riding, Overnight Camping, Quad Biking, and many more fun-filled activities in the desert.

You will be welcomed with many Arab delicacies and also be entertained with many Arabic traditional performances from expert artists. A BBQ dinner set up under the twinkling stars at the middle of the desert also create lovely memories that you take with yourselves. The Dubai deserts are simply one of the most fun places to visit in Dubai.

Here are some of the best deals that can help you plan a perfect Desert Safari to look forward to;

• A perfect Afternoon Desert Safari with all the major activities and sunset viewing. Book this tour now.
• Heritage Dinner Safari at a Retreat, Wildlife Tour to Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and Bedouin Camp Dinner. Book this tour now.

Note : All the above mentioned Desert Safaris consist of BBQ or Buffet Dinners including both vegetarian and no vegetarian options.

8. Spend A Day At Atlantis the Palm

Visiting Atlantis the Palm is like a trip to a whole new world in itself. It’s a 5 – star hotel and resort in Dubai, located at the top of the iconic Palm Jumeirah Island having marvelous views over the Arabian Gulf.

Unwind at the relaxing Nasimi Beach, which also hosts many concerts, explore the marine life at the world-class aquarium named the Lost Chambers, enjoy distinctive water rides at the Aquaventure Water Park, stroll through the lavish interiors of the hotel, swim with dolphins at the Dolphin Bay, and treat yourself at a variety of dining options. It’s not important to stay at the hotel to have access to all the activities. Atlantis is one of the most extravagant places to visit in Dubai.

You can pre-book your preferred activities and plan a day trip to Atlantis the Palm to spend a wonderful time at the Palm Jumeirah. Entry to the Aquaventure Water Park and The Lost Chambers is complimentary to hotel guests.

9. Go To Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is an artificial canal city comprising spectacular skyscrapers, a scenic promenade, waterfront restaurants, one of the largest shopping malls, a lovely beach, and exciting yacht tours. The Cayan Tower ( a.k.a. Infinity Tower) known to be the world’s tallest twisted tower, can be seen from many places at the Dubai Marina. A yachting trip from the Dubai Marina Promenade gives brilliant views of all the stunning skyscrapers, including the iconic Burj Al Arab and Atlantis.

Nearest Metro Station: Sobha Realty Metro Station

10. Go On A Walk At Madinat Jumeirah

The Madinat Jumeirah showcases an impressive outlook of the traditional Arabic architecture, comprising of elegantly designed souq, various wind towers, windy alleys, shiny lamps, lots of palm trees, and a bridged walkaway over a lake.

The delightful and calm ambiance at Madinat Jumeirah makes it an ideal retreat for visitors. You can also catch glimpses of the Burj Al Arab from a few restaurants or while taking an Abra (Boating) tour at the lake. There are many restaurants, bars, and cafes that make Madinat Jumeirah more vibrant and lively.

Nearest Metro Station: The nearest station is the Mall Of The Emirates metro station from where you can higher a cab to reach Madinat Jumeirah.

11. Take The Kids To The Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai never fails to surprise anyone. The Miracle Garden is an example of one such surprise. It’s hard to even imagine having a garden in a desert area. But, for Dubai, nothing seems to be impossible.

The Dubai Miracle Garden is one of its kind and also the world’s largest natural flower garden, showcasing over 45 million flowers and 250 million plants. It is a must-visit place for all visitors. The entire garden is very beautifully decorated with different themes each year.

There is a Butterfly Garden too, located adjacent to the Miracle Garden, which is the world’s largest indoor butterfly garden and sanctuary for over 15,000 butterflies from 26 species. This one is a must-visit too!

The Miracle Garden is seasonal and opens from October till April when there are temperature drops in Dubai.

Nearest Metro Station: There is no nearest metro station to the Dubai Miracle Garden. However, there is a direct bus service from the Mall Of The Emirates Metro Station to the Dubai Miracle Garden.

12. Go To Ski Dubai

You can visit Dubai for Skiing! Yes, you got it right. Ski Dubai is an indoor Ski resort located in the Mall of the Emirates. It is a beautiful arena of snow, having igloos, slides, slopes, and a snowy mountain. There you can go for various activities such as skiing, snowboarding, tubing, tobogganing, bob sleighing, and much more.

There is a ‘Snow Penguins’ show at Ski Dubai, which is a visual treat for those who love penguins. You can also book for Penguin Encounters to meet the little penguins after the show.

Nearest Metro Station: Mall Of The Emirates Metro Sation.

13. Spend Time At The Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek used to be an important part of Dubai that divided it into two sections, Bur Dubai and Deira. Historically, it was the only port in Dubai from where major sea transportation to and from other countries took place.

At present, there are many traditional Dhows (ships) and Abras (boats) that sail across the Dubai Creek, giving its visitors a new perspective of Dubai. Taking a tour through the Dhow cruise and Abra Ride is a great way to explore the old side of Dubai. Almost all the Dhow provide buffet lunches, dinners, and luxury dine ins as well with lots of live entertainment activities.

Nearest Metro Station: Al Fahidi Metro Station.

14. Visit Al Bastakiya

Explore Dubai city’s heritage and culture at Al Bastakia, also known as the Al Fahidi neighborhood. Taking a heritage walk along its narrow alleys, artsy walls, houses with traditional wind towers, and banks of the creek gives you an idea about the ancient traces of Dubai’s origin.

Many of the houses in this locality have been converted into art galleries, souvenir shops, museums, and cool cafeterias. The Dubai Museum, located adjacent to Al Bastakia, showcases the rise of Dubai from a small fishing village to one of the most extravagant cities in the world.

15. Have A Gala Time At Motiongate Themepark

Based on 5 movie-themed areas, this place is a must for fun lovers who want to experience jaw drawing shows and adrenaline pumping activities. It is located at Dubai Parks and Resorts, which has a plethora of restaurants and some live entertaining activities. Apart from the gaming zones, there is a kids’ play area, some retail stores, and eateries too. So, if you are looking for a place to unleash the thrilling and fun side of you, you must visit Motiongate.

Dubai is full of amazing experiences, adventures and activities and so it rightfully marks it’s place as one of the best places to visit in Middle East.

Good To Know :

• When it comes to good food, Dubai is the place that boasts a variety of Indian culinary restaurants. Here’s a mini guide to Indian Restaurants in Dubai, that you should consider dining at.

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Have you been to Dubai or making plans on visiting there? If you have any queries or suggestions do let me know in the comment box below.

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