If you’re planning to visit Dubai, you’ll find a stirring mix of profound traditions and futuristic vision wrapped into starkly evocative desert splendor. Dubai embraces sunshine, innovation, and cultural dynamism and is known as a shopping haven with a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene.
You won’t be short of things to do in the sci-fi-esque land of iconic skyscrapers, palm-shaped islands, city-sized malls, and palatial beach resorts. Here are some great things to do to make the most of your trip.
1. Burj Khalifa
Dubai is famous for its dramatic skyscrapers, and above them all looms the Burj Khalifa, shaped like a deep-space rocket and, at 2,718 feet, the world’s tallest building. It’s a stunning feat of architecture and engineering, and a trip to the observation deck on the 124th floor (1,483 feet) is the most popular way to take in the amazing views it offers. You can also buy tickets for “At the Top Sky” on the 148th floor, which is the world’s highest outdoor observation deck at 1,820 feet.
Detour: It can be costly getting to the top of Burj Khalifa, with prices starting near $50 per person for the 125th floor and more than $100 for the 148th floor, so instead of booking a ticket, consider booking high tea at Atmosphere Burj Khalifa and enjoy the views from the 122nd floor while enjoying delicious pastries, tea, and bubbly without the crowds. Prices start at about $95 per person, giving you more bang for your buck.
Clad in 28,000 glass panels, the Burj Khalifa also lays claim to several more superlatives, including the highest occupied floor and an elevator with the longest travel distance. On hazy days, it’s better to visit at night.
2. Al Fahidi Historic District
Wandering around this restored heritage area in Bur Dubai provides a tangible sense of historic Middle Eastern architecture and culture, and is one of the city’s free things to do. Low-lying traditional courtyard buildings flank this quiet labyrinth of lanes in Al Fahidi Historic District, many of them featuring arabesque windows, decorative gypsum screens, and wind towers.
Some contain craft shops, small heritage museums, art galleries, artsy guesthouses, or cafés serving local fare, including Middle Eastern breakfasts and camel milk smoothies.
Planning tip: Visit in the morning to avoid the heat and explore the heritage sites at a leisurely pace.
3. Dubai Miracle Garden
Covering around 21,528 square feet and touted as the largest natural flower garden in the world, there’s a sense of Alice in Wonderland-esque surrealism upon entering Dubai Miracle Garden. Wander past quirky bloom-covered peacocks, clocks, and castles, or alternatively, chill out in a cabana with billowing drapes and floor cushions.
Home to 100 million flowers, and adjacent to the enormous nine-dome Dubai Butterfly Garden, it is incredibly popular, attracting 55,000 visitors a week. There are food outlets on-site as well as a souvenir shop and a small trampoline park.
Planning tip: The garden is best visited in the cooler months, from November to April, when flowers are in their prime.
4. Dubai Mall
Shopping malls represent an integral part of the culture and lifestyle in Dubai. Not merely places for maxing out your credit cards on fashion, electronics, or gourmet foods, malls are also where locals go to socialize in cafés and restaurants, to catch a movie in a state-of-the-art multiplex, or to get adrenaline kicks in an indoor theme park or game arcade. The best and biggest of the bunch is Dubai Mall, which features not only 1,300 stores but also the giant Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, an indoor ice rink, and a genuine dinosaur skeleton.
Serious shoppers can check out the Dubai Shopping Festival, which lures bargain-hunters from around the world, taking place in January each year, and offering huge discounts in the souqs and malls. The city is abuzz with activities during the festival, ranging from live concerts to fashion shows and nightly fireworks.
5. Mushrif National Park
One of the oldest parks in Dubai, Mushrif National Park covers nearly 2 square miles of natural ghaf forest. Located about 9 miles east of the city center, it is a haven for birds, including owls, Orphean warblers, hoopoes, and black redstarts. Since 1974, the park has also included various man-made attractions such as walking trails, bicycle tracks, a large children’s playground, a swimming pool, and barbecue pits.
Detour: If time is limited, consider visiting one of Dubai’s other parks, like Safa Park or Zabeel Park, which also offer green spaces and recreational facilities.
6. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
On the outskirts of Sharjah, the 87-square-mile Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve accounts for 5% of the Emirate of Dubai’s total land. Established in 1999, the reserve has been involved in projects to reintroduce mountain gazelles, sand gazelles, and Arabian oryx.
It’s possible to stay inside the reserve at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa, designed for super-luxe ecotourism. The reserve is divided into four zones, with some areas only open to resort guests and select desert tour operators, providing a less costly admission compared to overnighting at the resort.
Planning tip: Book desert safaris and eco-tours in advance, and opt for morning or sunset tours to avoid the midday heat.
7. IMG Worlds of Adventure
In 2016, Dubai added four theme parks to its stable of attractions, including IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world’s largest indoor theme park. Housed in an air-conditioned space the size of 28 football fields, the park is truly impressive, featuring more than 20 rides and attractions across four themed zones – Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure, and IMG Boulevard. You won’t go hungry as there are 28 dining outlets to choose from.
Planning tip: Purchase tickets online ahead of time for better rates and to avoid long lines.
8. Etihad Museum
Opened in 2017, the striking Etihad Museum chronicles the birth of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, spurred by the discovery of oil in the 1950s and the withdrawal of the British in 1968.
Documentary films, photographs, artifacts, timelines, and interactive displays focus on historic milestones leading up to and immediately following this momentous occasion. Free tours of the adjacent circular Union House, where the historic signing of the Constitution of the United Arab Emirates took place, are also available.
9. Gold Souq
For a taste of Arabian Nights flair, head to Dubai’s historic core and plunge into its charmingly chaotic warren of markets. The famed headliner is the dazzling Gold Souq. Even if you don’t have a thing for bling, a walk through here will feel like you’ve entered a giant Aladdin’s Cave. It’s entertaining to just watch the action, especially in the evening. If you’re buying, sharpen your haggling skills, whether shopping for small earrings, an engagement ring, or a red-carpet-ready necklace.
Planning tip: Bargaining is expected. When you find a piece you’re interested in, start by offering a price lower than what you are willing to pay. Sellers will then counter with something higher but also lower than the original price.
10. White Dubai
Dazzling rooftop bars, chill beachfront lounges, classic pubs, cool karaoke joints, speakeasy-style nightclubs, and live-music venues offer such variety that finding a party location to suit your mood is hardly a tall order in Dubai. One of the biggest draws for nocturnal action is White Dubai. This mega-venue, with its impressive light and sound systems, sits atop the grandstand of the Meydan Racecourse.
Planning tip: Avoid casual wear as this exclusive nightclub has a dress code.
11. Desert Escapes
The Arabian desert, with its weathered mountains, undulating sand dunes, and wide-open spaces, exudes a special mystique that can easily be savored on a day trip from urbanized Dubai. Numerous tour operators offer experiences ranging from camel treks to sandboarding or overnight desert safaris. The best ones provide an authentic glimpse into local culture through encounters with Bedouins and traditional meals. Alternatively, hiring a 4WD and staying at a desert resort allows you to appreciate the magnificent scenery on your own schedule.
12. Dubai Museum
Housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, the city’s oldest surviving structure, Dubai Museum provides a well-laid-out introduction to the emirate’s history. Marvel at its turbo-evolution from a simple desert settlement to a futuristic metropolis in just a third of a century. Dioramas recreate traditional scenes in a market, at home, and in the mosque, while other galleries focus on life at sea and in the desert. An archaeological exhibition illustrates the ancient history of the region with a display of items unearthed during excavations at local digs.
13. Dubai Design District
This hub for creatives enchants visitors with its edgy architecture, contemporary restaurants, public art, galleries, and a calendar of cultural events. Visitors to Dubai Design District can tap into this laboratory of tastemakers by browsing showrooms and pop-ups, enjoying the ambiance in sleek cafés, exploring art exhibits in building lobbies, or attending various activities and workshops.
Planning tip: Visit during Dubai Design Week in November for a full range of activities, exhibitions, and workshops.
14. Dubai Butterfly Garden
If you want to deepen your knowledge of these beautiful flying insects, pop into the Dubai Butterfly Museum, located next to the Dubai Miracle Garden. Home to around 15,000 butterflies in nine indoor domed gardens, you can watch how they begin as caterpillars and evolve into their flying forms. Don’t miss the Butterfly and Insect Museum, featuring in-depth analysis and information about thousands of colorful butterfly species from around the world.
15. Museum of Illusions
Opened in 2018, the Museum of Illusions in the Al Seef district is quickly becoming a favorite for families and Instagram fans. Kids will love the 150-plus illusions, including rooms of mirrors and distorted perspectives, while parents can take memorable, wacky photos. To avoid long wait times, aim to visit during weekdays.
Detour: After your museum visit, explore the Al Seef district, which features a blend of modern and traditional architecture along with various dining options.
16. Jumeirah Mosque
Snowy white and intricately detailed, Jumeirah is Dubai’s most beautiful mosque and one of only a handful in the UAE open to non-Muslims. It’s particularly stunning at dusk, and visitors are welcome six days a week. One-hour guided tours are available through the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.
Planning tip: Modest dress is preferred, and traditional clothing can be borrowed for free.
17. Dubai Fountain
The dancing Dubai Fountain is spectacularly set in the middle of a giant lake against the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa. Water undulates gracefully, arcs like a dolphin, and surges as high as 459 feet, all synced to stirring classical, Arabic, and world music soundtracks. Several vantage points offer excellent views, including a floating boardwalk that brings you just 30 feet away from the fountain or various restaurants nearby.
18. Emirates Airline Festival of Literature
Celebrating all things reading and writing, the Emirates Airline Festival of Literature unites authors and thousands of fans annually for a nine-day event in March. The festival includes talks, panels, a special children’s program, and many free activities, allowing attendees the opportunity to meet local and world-renowned authors while participating in literary discussions and workshops.
Planning tips: If meeting authors is a priority, look out for signing sessions and Q&A events.
19. Global Village
The carnival-like Global Village serves as a ‘world fair’ for shoppers and can be found on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). Each of the 30-something pavilions showcases a specific nation’s culture and products. In addition to shopping, there is plenty of entertainment ranging from Chinese opera to Turkish whirling dervishes, plus a funfair with dozens of rides.
20. Burj Al Arab
This landmark luxe hotel, with its dramatic design resembling the billowing sail of a ship, is built on its own artificial island and has become the iconic symbol of Dubai’s boom years. Located on the stunning man-made Palm Jumeirah island, the Burj Al Arab’s opulent interior features dancing fountains, gold fittings, shiny marble, and whirlpool baths filled with champagne upon request. If an overnight stay exceeds your budget, consider reservations for cocktails, tea, or dinner in the underwater restaurant.
21. Dubai Frame
Opened in January 2018, this 492-foot rectangular “picture frame” sits in Zabeel Park, right between historic and modern Dubai, providing grand views of both parts of the city. Galleries on the ground floor of Dubai Frame narrate the story of Dubai’s past before whisking visitors up to a viewing platform for present views. The final gallery depicts a vision of Dubai 50 years from now.
22. Al Qudra Lake
Nature lovers will enjoy Al Qudra Lake, a series of man-made lakes amid the rolling dunes of the Saih Al Salam desert on Dubai’s southern outskirts. This area is part of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, offering unspoiled scenery where you can spot free-roaming wildlife, over 100 species of birds, and a variety of desert plants.
23. Kite Beach
This long, pristine stretch of white sand off Jumeirah Road is very clean and provides various activities, including kitesurfing, beach tennis, volleyball, and kayaking. Kite Beach is equipped with showers, Wi-Fi, toilets, and numerous food trucks and cafés, offering great views of the Burj Al Arab. It is particularly busy on Fridays and Saturdays when a seaside market sets up with crafts and gifts.
Detour: About 3 miles from Kite Beach, Jumeirah Beach stretches along the coast, providing the same iconic views in a more relaxed atmosphere, ideal for tranquil lounging.
24. Perfume Museum
The waterfront Perfume Museum is part of the Al Shindagha Museum restoration project and is located in the former home of a Dubai sheikha who cherished perfume. The building has been restored, featuring interactive exhibits centered around scents and fragrances. Keep your entry ticket for free access to the nearby Dubai Creek House.
25. Spice Souk
Nearby the Deira Old Souk abra station, the sounds of Arabic chatter fill the lanes of the covered Spice Souk. This market is brimming with intoxicating sights and smells, with vendors displaying cardamom, saffron, and other aromatic herbs stored in burlap sacks alongside nuts, incense burners, henna kits, and dried limes. Away from the main tourist thoroughfare, small shops also sell groceries and household goods.
26. Dubai Parks
Dubai Parks and Resorts covers an impressive 25 million square feet, positioning it as one of the largest integrated theme park destinations in the Middle East. The complex welcomes you with Riverland Dubai, featuring themed dining and retail options reminiscent of a 1950s American boardwalk. Experience the magic of Hollywood at Motiongate Dubai, the only Hollywood-themed park in the Middle East, with rides inspired by blockbuster movies like The Hunger Games and Shrek.
Families with younger children will especially enjoy Legoland Dubai, while the Legoland Water Park provides adventure with water slides and fun-filled zones perfect for kids ages 2 to 12.
Explore Dubai
This article has covered a wide range of attractions, showcasing the multifaceted allure of Dubai. By immersing yourself in both cultural and contemporary experiences, you’ll make your trip truly unforgettable.
