What to do in Dubai? Well, Dubai is a city that is made for tourists. We, the passionate visitors of Dubai, crave the city! However, many other-worldly sights make it difficult to decide on Dubai things to do.
Don’t worry, though! Our job, as Dubai experts, is to take down long lists like this. We’ve gathered some of Dubai best places to visit. It might take a month to fully discover Dubai. So, take time to pick any of them that excites you the most. If it was still confusing, we got some tips to guide you through picking your favorite spots.
Top 10 Dubai Places to Visit
For those of you who are in a hurry or just want a simple and straightforward answer, here are the Top 10 best Dubai things to do:
- Visit Burj al Khalifa
- Attend a fountain show at Dubai Fountain
- Shop from Dubai Mall
- Go to a desert safari
- Tour the Dubai Miracle Garden
- Visit Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
- Discover the old Dubai in Al Fahidi Historic District
- Ski in Mall of Emirates
- Dine in Dubai Marina cafes and restaurants
- Tour the Palm Jumeirah
This is the summary of any Dubai travel guide you can find on the web. Do each of these items, and you’ll have a memorable trip to Dubai. Be sure that you’ll get the most out of Dubai by visiting these places. These places are the answer to the question, Why should we travel to Dubai.
Now, for those of you who have a little more time to spare, buckle up! We’re just getting started! We’ll review each of these places, categorize them, and give you some useful tips on how to pick one.
Dubai Things to Do: 21 Best Dubai Places to Visit
What to Do in Dubai? Let’s take a look at a detailed list of the 21 best Dubai places to visit.
Burj Khalifa
Location
Downtown Dubai
Overview
This marvelous building is not only a Dubai highlight but also an iconic landmark worldwide. With a height of 830 meters, Khalifa immediately broke the record for the tallest structure ever built in human history. It has become a prominent part of modern-day Dubai. We suggest visiting this place because no Dubai trip would be complete without Burj Khalifa.
Main Activities
- At levels 124 and 125, you can get an astonishing 360 view of Dubai’s skyline, landmarks, and the coast of the Persian Gulf.
- There’s VIP access to level 148. This floor is the highest observation deck in the world at a height of 555 meters.
- Throughout the levels, especially level 122, you can find many luxurious dining places.
Practical Tips
- Book tickets online beforehand. Burj Khalifa is one of Dubai’s most popular destinations. So it’s usual if the tickets get sold out quickly, especially during sunset.
- Your visit to Burj Khalifa lasts around 1-2 hours.
- The best time to visit Burj Khalifa is around sunset. This time of day can enhance the views and make them more breathtaking.
- Tour other nearby attractions, including Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain
Cost
- Entrance fees for levels 124 and 125 start from AED 159 and can increase during premium hours
- Entrance tickets for level 148 (At the top sky VIP) start from AED 399.
Dubai Mall
Location
Downtown Dubai, near Burj Khalifa
Overview
Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall in the world. Before going to this place, prepare yourself for some long walks. It expands over 1.1 million square meters. Besides, it hosts more than 1200 stores, which makes it a paradise for shopping addicts. However, if you’re not particularly looking for a shopping place, Dubai Mall still offers other exciting activities.
Main Activities
Beyond shopping at over 1,200 stores, Dubai Mall offers a complete entertainment experience. Visitors can explore the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, watch the indoor ice rink, try virtual reality games at VR Park, or catch the latest movie at the cinema complex. The mall also provides access to the Dubai Fountain and Burj Khalifa.
Practical Tips
- Wear comfortable shoes – the mall is huge.
- Use the metro (Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station) to avoid traffic.
- Check the mall’s app or website for events and show timings.
- Great place to escape the summer heat.
Cost
No entrance fee is needed for the Dubai Mall.
Al Fahidi Historical District
Location
Bur Dubai, near Dubai Creek
Overview
As the name suggests, this place is the historic identity of Dubai. Strolling in Al Fahidi District on its own is a memorable experience. This neighborhood is built following the traditional Dubai architecture. Pass through narrow alleys and observe wind towers. It’ll be a different sight of Dubai, often overlooked by its modern designs. Besides, this place hosts many museums and art galleries.
Main Activities
This district is a step back in time. Tourists can walk through narrow lanes lined with restored wind-tower houses, art galleries, and cafés. Visit the Dubai Museum, the Coffee Museum, or take a cultural tour at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. It’s a peaceful, photogenic spot to learn about traditional Emirati life.
Practical Tips
- Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat.
- Dress modestly out of respect for local culture.
- Entry is free, but some museums charge a small fee.
- It’s within walking distance of Al Fahidi Metro Station.
Cost
No entrance fee is needed to visit the area alone.
Miracle Garden
Location
Dubailand, Al Barsha South 3
Overview
The list of Dubai’s superlatives continues with the largest natural flower garden in the world. Miracle Garden seems like it has come out of a Disney fairy tale. It expands around 72,000 square meters and hosts more than 150 million flowers. They’re arranged in stunning patterns to make the Miracle Garden insanely beautiful. This garden is a must-visit among Dubai places to visit.
Main Activities
Take a stroll through heart-shaped flower arches, snap photos with giant floral sculptures like the Emirates A380 and Disney characters, and relax in shaded cabanas while enjoying snacks from local vendors. Don’t miss the Butterfly Garden next door for an up-close experience with thousands of butterflies.
Practical Tips
- Open seasonally (usually from November to May).
- Visit on weekdays early in the day to avoid crowds and heat.
- Dress in light layers and wear sunscreen—shade is limited.
- Entry is ticketed; combo deals with the Butterfly Garden are available.
Cost
Entrance fees for:
- Adults AED 100
- Children aged 3–12: AED 85
- Children under 3: Free
Dubai Fountain
Location
Downtown Dubai, near Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall
Overview
Attend a fantastic water show at the Dubai Fountain. It is located in the Burj Khalifa Lake outside of Dubai Mall. Although surrounded by these two major attractions in Dubai, it is still mesmerizing. So don’t forget to check out the Dubai Fountain on your way to Dubai Downtown. The performances happen daily.
Main Activities
Watch the water dance to Arabic or international music every 30 minutes in the evening, hop on a traditional abra boat for a closer view, or walk the floating Fountain Boardwalk for a unique perspective just meters from the show.
Practical Tips
- Shows run every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM.
- The best viewing spots are near the Waterfront Promenade or the Souk Al Bahar bridge.
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early to secure a good viewing location.
- Boat and boardwalk tickets are available at the lake’s edge kiosks.
Cost
The Dubai Fountain show is free to watch. But if you want to get a closer look, you must pay AED 25 per person.
Burj Al Arab
Location
Jumeirah Beach Road
Overview
Opened in 1999, Burj al-Arab is the only place in the world that carries the title of being a seven-star hotel. The luxury in this hotel is limitless. Since the beginning, Burj al-Arab has attracted many tourists to Dubai. Apart from its lavish essence, it’s an architectural masterpiece with its iconic sail-shaped structure. Take a tour of its high-end suits, dining, and private beach.
Main Activities
Dine at the underwater-themed Al Mahara restaurant, enjoy afternoon tea at the Skyview Lounge with panoramic city views, or book a guided “Inside Burj Al Arab” tour to explore the Royal Suite and the hotel’s opulent interiors.
Practical Tips
- No walk-ins—advance booking for a restaurant or tour is required.
- Smart casual or formal dress code is strictly enforced.
- Valet service is standard; taxis and ride-hailing apps are convenient options.
- Photography is allowed on tours but restricted in some areas.
Cost
The entrance fee ranges from AED 100 to 360. Various tours are provided for visitors to explore the inside of Burj al-Arab, which have different prices starting from AED 179.
Palm Jumeirah
Location
Off the coast of Dubai, the man-made island
Overview
Palm Jumeirah is another recognizable sight of Dubai. You can open up Google Maps right now in your house to see its iconic palm shape. Located in the waters of the Persian Gulf, these islands are fully man-made. Palm Jumeirah has many answers to the question of what to do in Dubai with its high-end residents, leisure spots, and stunning beaches.
Main Activities
Walk along The Pointe for views of Atlantis and the nightly fountain show, take in 360° views from The View at the Palm observation deck, join a luxury yacht cruise around the island, or rent a kayak or jet ski along Palm West Beach.
Practical Tips
- Use the monorail for scenic and stress-free transportation.
- Book yacht cruises or observation deck visits in advance.
- Sunset is ideal for photos, especially at The Pointe.
- Most beach clubs have minimum spend policies—check ahead.
Cost
Entering Palm Jumeirah is free.
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Location
Inside Dubai Mall
Overview
Probably the most exciting destination inside Dubai Mall is the Dubai Aquarium. It offers a breathtaking view of Dubai that you’ll carry in your memory for years. Surround yourself with the sight of over 140 species of sharks, fish, and other forms of marine life. Besides, the Underwater Zoo hosts other animals like penguins and crocodiles.
Main Activities
Walk through the 48-meter tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays, try the glass-bottom boat ride over the aquarium, book a behind-the-scenes tour, or join the shark feeding or scuba diving experience for a serious adrenaline rush.
Practical Tips
- The tunnel can get crowded—mornings are calmer.
- Basic views are free from the mall, but activities require paid tickets.
- Check for combo passes with VR Park or KidZania for better value.
- Animal encounters must be booked ahead due to limited slots.
Cost
The regular pass tickets start at AED 199 per person. Children under two are free to enter.
Desert Safari
Location
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Overview
Going to a Desert Safari is an essential activity in Dubai. It’ll let you immerse in the natural surroundings of Dubai. Besides, you’ll see the other side of Dubai outside of its urban area. It’s an adventurous experience. It’ll offer a range of exciting activities in the heart of Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. An absolute top notch when it comes to Dubai things to do.
Main Activities
Ride over towering dunes in a 4×4 vehicle, try sandboarding or quad biking, enjoy a camel ride, and join cultural experiences like henna art, traditional dance shows, and Emirati-style dining in a desert camp setting.
Practical Tips
- Wear closed shoes and light, breathable clothes.
- Evening safaris offer a complete package; morning safaris are more peaceful.
- Avoid eating too much before dune bashing—it gets rough!
- Bring cash for optional activities like quad biking or souvenir shopping.
Cost
A desert safari price can depend on the type of tour you’re selecting. The prices usually start from AED 130 per person and can go up to AED 890 for private or VIP desert tours.
Ain Dubai
Location
Bluewaters Island
Overview
Inspired by the London Eye, Ain Dubai literally translates into Eye of Dubai. However, Ain Dubai doubles the height of its counterpart in London. With a height of 250 meters, it’s the tallest ferris wheel in the world. Ain Dubai challenged the limits of engineering with its gigantic structure. Looking at it alone is visually pleasing. Now imagine all the awe-inspiring views of the city on top of the Ain Dubai observation wheel.
Main Activities
Take a 38-minute ride in a glass cabin for panoramic views of JBR, Bluewaters, and Palm Jumeirah. Upgrade to a Skybar cabin for drinks during the ride, or book a private cabin for a celebration or romantic dinner in the sky.
Practical Tips
- Book online for best prices and guaranteed time slots.
- Choose a sunset slot for the most stunning views.
- Pair your visit with dinner at nearby Bluewaters restaurants.
- Check official channels for operating status—it’s sometimes under maintenance.
Cost
Ticket prices start at 130 for adults and 100 for children. However, the prices go up to AED 180 during peak hours, like sunsets.
Green Planet
Location
City Walk
Overview
What to do in Dubai? Visit an indoor rainforest zoo. Right in the heart of Dubai Deserts, lies the Green Planet with over 3,000 species of tropical plants and animals. Paying this place a visit can be an adventurous detour in your trip’s schedule. The adorable birds or sloths of Green Planet can capture any tourist’s heart.
Main Activities
Feed tropical birds, encounter sloths up close, walk across canopy bridges high above the forest floor, and join interactive animal talks and live demonstrations with snakes, lizards, or parrots.
Practical Tips
- Indoors and climate-controlled—perfect for any time of year.
- Ideal for kids and families; strollers are allowed.
- Tickets can be combined with nearby attractions like Hub Zero.
- Book in advance for close-up animal encounters—slots fill quickly.
Cost
Tickets for the Green Planet cost are like this:
- Adults: AED 175
- Children from 2 to 10: AED 150
- Children under 2: Free
Global Village
Location
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, near Arabian Ranches
Overview
Global Village is one of Dubai’s largest cultural hubs. It is a festival park that features rural houses and pavilions from over 70 countries. Besides, Global Village is a shopping attraction. It also hosts many cultural performances. And if you’re a food lover, we’ve got good news! Global Village is an international food festival as well.
Main Activities
Explore pavilions from over 90 countries showcasing cultural shows, traditional food, and handicrafts. Ride roller coasters and carnival games in the funfair area, catch live concerts or street performances, and try dishes from all over the world at food trucks and restaurants.
Practical Tips
- Open seasonally (usually October to April).
- Visit on weekdays for smaller crowds and shorter ride queues.
- An entry ticket is required; some attractions inside require extra tokens.
- Modest dress is recommended as it’s a family-oriented venue.
Cost
Weekday tickets are for AED 25, and any day tickets are priced at AED 30. Children under 3 and people above 65 are free to enter.
Dubai Marina
Location
Dubai Marina District
Overview
The wonders of Dubai don’t seem to stop. Dubai Marina is another mega project to shape the face of 21st-century Dubai. This man-made 3.5 km-long canal forms a unique neighborhood in Dubai. The waterfront itself is fascinating to look at. Besides, Dubai Marina hosts many other luxury and fun activities.
Main Activities
Walk along the scenic Marina Walk, rent a private yacht or take a dinner cruise on a traditional dhow, enjoy watersports at Marina Beach, or dine at waterfront restaurants with views of the skyscrapers and yachts.
Practical Tips
- Evenings are vibrant and cooler—perfect for strolls or cruises.
- Parking can be tough; consider using the tram or metro.
- Book boat cruises in advance, especially during weekends.
- Marina Mall nearby is great for indoor shopping and dining.
Cost
No entrance fee is needed to visit Dubai Marina.
Dubai Museum
Location
Al Fahidi Fort, Bur Dubai
Overview
The top attraction in Al Fahidi Historical District is the Dubai Museum. We believe a complete trip to Dubai should consist of visiting here for two main reasons. First, the Dubai Museum is located inside the oldest building. Secondly, this museum will take you on a full journey of Dubai’s history. It’ll show you how a small village on the coast of the Persian Gulf managed to become a modern metropolis.
Main Activities
Step into Al Fahidi Fort and explore dioramas and exhibits showing Dubai’s transformation from a fishing village to a modern city. Wander through recreated souks, desert camps, and pearl diving displays for a quick cultural deep dive.
Practical Tips
- Located in Bur Dubai, close to Al Fahidi Metro Station.
- The museum is compact—about an hour is enough for a full visit.
- Entry fee is minimal (cash or card accepted).
- Best visited in the morning before it gets crowded.
Cost
It’ll cost you AED 3 per adult and AED 1 for children under six to enter this museum.
Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House
Location
Al Shindagha, Bur Dubai
Overview
This house used to belong to the former Dubai ruler, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum. He reigned over Dubai from the year 1912 to 1958. Established in 1896, it is one of Dubai’s historical highlights. The house is now turned into a museum showcasing old photographs, documents, and artifacts.
Main Activities
Tour the restored historic residence of Dubai’s former ruler and view exhibitions of old photographs, coins, maps, and official documents that offer a rare glimpse into Dubai’s early 20th-century history.
Practical Tips
- Located in Al Shindagha Historic District, near the creek.
- Entry fee is low; combo tickets with nearby museums may be available.
- Combine with a walk along Dubai Creek or a visit to the Perfume Museum.
- Closed on Fridays until the afternoon—check hours before visiting.
Cost
The entrance fee is AED 15 for adults and AED 5 for children under five.
Mall of the Emirates
Location
Al Barsha 1
Overview
This mall is our second shopping center highlight in this list. Shopping is a must among Dubai things to do. And Mall of the Emirates is all about that. Following right behind the Dubai Mall, this place is the second largest mall in Dubai. It has over 630 brands. However, along with the shopping, it’s home to Ski Dubai.
Main Activities
Shop international brands, dine at gourmet restaurants, or try indoor attractions like Dreamscape VR and Magic Planet. The highlight is Ski Dubai, where you can snowboard, ski, or meet penguins—yes, real ones!
Practical Tips
- Connected to the metro via a direct walkway—very convenient.
- Ski Dubai requires separate tickets and winter gear (available on-site).
- Weekends can be very busy—go early for shorter lines.
- Great for escaping the summer heat with indoor fun.
Cost
Entering the Mall of Emirates won’t cost you anything.
Aquaventure Waterpark
Location
Palm Jumeirah
Overview
Save up some time to visit this wonderful water park. One of Palm Jumeirah’s main attractions is the thrilling Aquaventure Waterpark. If you think the list of Dubai’s world records is over, you’re wrong! Aquaventure Waterpark is the largest of its kind globally. It has 105 water slides to match everyone’s preference. Besides, it offers many areas for kids. Surely you and your family are going to have a fun time here.
Main Activities
Slide down the record-breaking Leap of Faith, float along the lazy river, splash around at the kids’ zone, or swim with dolphins and rays at nearby marine experiences. Relax on the private beach or enjoy food courts between rides.
Practical Tips
- Located at Atlantis on Palm Jumeirah—tickets include beach access.
- Bring water shoes and quick-dry clothes; towels and lockers cost extra.
- Book Dolphin Bay or aquarium experiences separately.
- Arrive early to beat queues for popular rides.
Cost
Adult passes start at AED 345 and go up for premium access. Tickets for children under seven or less than 1.2 meters tall start at AED 295.
IMG Worlds of Adventure
Location
City of Arabia, off Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
Overview
Another world record for Dubai, IMG is the largest indoor theme park worldwide. Even if you’re not a theme park lover, kids are going to love this place. It consists of different parts dedicated to everyone’s favorite shows, like Marvel and Cartoon Network. Moreover, a popular spot here is the Lost Valley. It has dinosaurs in it. I know it wouldn’t be a surprise if Dubai has a real-life Jurassic Park, but no, they’re not alive!
Main Activities
Ride Marvel and Cartoon Network-themed roller coasters, enjoy immersive 5D cinema experiences, walk through a haunted hotel, or meet life-sized dinosaurs in the Lost Valley zone. Plenty of family-friendly rides and a huge food court are also on-site.
Practical Tips
- Entirely indoors and air-conditioned—perfect all year round.
- Go on weekdays to avoid long waits, especially for thrill rides.
- Height restrictions apply for many attractions—check in advance.
- Shuttle buses are available from key tourist spots—book ahead.
Cost
The general entrance fee is AED 345 per person. Children under 105 cm can enter freely. Tickets for the IMG kids zone are AED 50 for an hour and AED 100 for a day. They must be purchased separately.
Dubai Dolphinarium
Location
Creek Park, Umm Hurair 2
Overview
Dubai Dolphinarium is a fun Dubai place to visit. It is a family-friendly hub in the city that brings a smile to your kids’ faces. And beware that you’ll be fronted with irresistibly adorable dolphin and seal performances. Dubai Dolphinarium is fully indoor. It is open every day of the week except Tuesdays. It offers other activities as well, like swimming with Dolphins.
Main Activities
Watch dolphins and seals perform synchronized tricks and acrobatics, book a session to swim with dolphins, or enjoy additional attractions like the mirror maze, trampoline park, or bird show inside the same facility.
Practical Tips
- Located in Creek Park—park entry ticket is separate.
- Combo deals are available for shows and activities.
- Arrive early to choose the best seats; front rows may get splashed!
- Ideal for families with younger kids.
Cost
Ticket prices for different Dubai Dolphinarium activities are listed below:
- Dolphins and seals show: AED 75 for adults and AED 25 for children
- Exotic birds show: AED 50 for adults and AED 20 for children
- Swimming with dolphins: start at AED 475 for shallow swimming and can go up to AED 1100 for premium access to swimming with dolphins.
Jumeirah Mosque
Location
Jumeirah 1, near Jumeirah Beach
Overview
Many agree that Jumeirah Mosque is the most beautiful mosque in Dubai. Besides, it’s the only mosque in Dubai that is open to non-muslims to visit, too. We know that Dubai is an Islamic city. So, one of the Dubai things to do must be visiting a place dedicated to this culture. Here, you can see Islamic culture with a blend of architectural genius.
Main Activities
Join a guided tour (open to non-Muslims) led by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, where you can learn about Islamic culture, architecture, and traditions in a welcoming Q&A setting. The tour includes Arabic coffee and dates.
Practical Tips
- Tours run at 10 AM daily except Fridays—no reservation needed.
- Modest dress required (shoulders and knees covered); abayas and scarves provided on-site.
- Arrive 15–20 minutes early to register and enjoy refreshments.
- Photography is encouraged—bring a camera!
Cost
The entrance fee is free for everyone. However, if you want a guided tour, you must pay from AED 25 per person.
Ski Dubai
Location
Mall of Emirates
Overview
Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort inside Mall of Emirates. It expands over 22,500 square meters. The temperature remains at −1 to 2 °C. Pack some winter clothes when visiting Ski Dubai. This temperature won’t get any warmer even during the hottest days of summer. It features real snow. Besides, Ski Dubai offers a range of various activities for all ages making it one the most exciting Dubai things to do.
Main Activities
Ski or snowboard on five indoor slopes, try snow tubing, build a snowman, or have a snowball fight in the Snow Park. You can also book an encounter with King and Gentoo penguins or take ski lessons from certified instructors.
Practical Tips
- Winter clothes and gear are provided, but gloves are not always included.
- Penguin encounters must be booked in advance.
- Great for all ages—kids can safely enjoy snow play areas.
- Located inside Mall of the Emirates, combine with shopping or dining.
Cost
Ski Dubai has different tickets and passes. The general prices start at AED 195.
Etihad Museum
Location
Jumeirah 1, near Union House
Overview
One last activity in our list of “what to do in Dubai” is dedicated to another Museum. If you want to dig deeper into the history of Dubai, this place is a must-see. Formerly known as the Union House, the UAE constitution was signed in this area back in 1971. Now, it has been turned into the Etihad Museum. It showcases Dubai’s heritage, such as old documents, political history, and cultural backgrounds. Moreover, the building itself is a gorgeous piece of art.
Main Activities
Browse interactive exhibits and multimedia galleries that showcase the founding of the UAE in 1971. Walk through themed halls that focus on the Constitution, flag, founding leaders, and historic documents.
Practical Tips
- Located in Jumeirah near Union House—easy to reach by taxi.
- Best for visitors interested in modern UAE history.
- Quiet and well air-conditioned—perfect for a cultural afternoon.
- Allow 1–1.5 hours to explore fully.
Cost
The entrance fee is AED 25 for adults and AED 10 for children.
General Dubai Guidelines Every Tourist Should Know
- Beware of Dubai’s cruel summers: Summers in Dubai are extremely hot. It is something you must consider before planning a summer trip to Dubai, especially if you’re a fan of desert activities. Most citizens stay indoors during summer.
- Dress appropriately: Something you should consider is that Dubai is an Islamic city. This means that you must wear moderate clothes in Dubai’s malls or streets. Moreover, in religious sites, you’re obligated to cover your knees and shoulders. However, you can still wear a swimsuit in pools or on beaches.
- Attractions timing and booking: Many tourist attractions in Dubai have limited opening hours. Besides, popular destinations like Burj Khalifa need ticket booking in advance. Most of them offer online booking for more convenience. So, keep these in mind next time you’re scheduling your trip to Dubai.
- Ramadan restrictions: Ramadan is a sacred month in Islamic culture. Muslims fast during this month. That’s why any public drinking, eating, or smoking is prohibited during the day. Check your trip schedule with an Islamic calendar beforehand.
- Shopping in Dubai: One of the things that Dubai is famous for is shopping. However, if you’re low on budget, note that many luxury Dubai malls are overpriced.
- Some other general guidelines: Don’t play loud music or swear in public. Don’t drink alcohol in public. Don’t take photos of people without permission. Carry some UAE local currency (AED or dirham) for small purchases. And lastly, don’t look for any casinos. There are none in Dubai.
- Car Rental in Dubai: Nothing like renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the city. So, we suggest you check out the top 10 car rental companies in Dubai and reserve a car before hand.
Wondering What to Do in Dubai? Review Guide
Before picking a list of the best Dubai things to do, there are some tips to consider. These will help you pick your favorite attractions. Let’s review some more specific tips to help you decide what to do in Dubai. We’ll focus more on your interests and the purpose of your travel to Dubai.
- Your Personal Interests
One of the first things to think of is your own interests. What type of person are you? Are you adventurous or more of a family-oriented person? Pause for a couple of seconds and think about it. Try to picture your ideal travel destination. Then, take a look at this table. Here, we’ve ordered Dubai destinations based on people’s characteristics.
| Type of Personality | Preferred Attraction or Activity |
|---|---|
| The adventure seeker | Desert safari and dune bashing, sandboarding, Dubai Marina Xline, shark diving, jet skiing, iFly Dubai, Ski Dubai, Ain Dubai |
| The history buff | Dubai Museum, Al Fahidi historical district, Dubai Creek, Jumeirah Mosque, Etihad Museum, Saruq Al-Hadid Archaeology Museum, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, The Heritage Village |
| The shopaholic | Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Gold Souk, The Outlet Village, Ibn Battuta Mall, Global Village, Dubai Design District, Souk Madinat Jumeirah |
| The sybarite | Burj Al Arab, Fashion Avenue, Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah, Talise Spa, Private Yacht Cruise, The Ritz-Carlton, Burj Khalifa |
| The family-oriented | Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, Aquaventure Waterpark, Miracle Garden, Green Planet, Kite Beach, Dubai Fountain Show, Dubai Dolphinarium, Global Village, IMG Worlds of Adventure |
- Your Travel Purpose
It’s good to give your travel a purpose. It helps to reduce your options. Then, it’ll be easier to choose from only those destinations that are related to your trip purpose. For instance, if you’re focusing more on family-friendly places, you can skip Jumeirah’s skydiving and attend Dubai’s Miracle Garden. Once you decide that, you can use the previous table to schedule your trip. However, if you’re like most tourists who want a little bit of everything, you can prioritize some iconic landmarks. It takes us to our next point.
- Prioritize Iconic Destinations
Are you planning a Dubai trip, but you have a limited stay? Well, it’s the case with many tourists. Or those who are first-timers and haven’t even visited the most popular places in Dubai.
We suggest prioritizing the iconic landmarks of Dubai. Visit those places that make Dubai, Dubai. For instance, it’s okay if you don’t attend a Dubai Dolphinarium show, but visiting the tallest tower in the world isn’t something you can find elsewhere.
Here is a list of iconic Dubai places to visit for every tourist:
- Burj Khalifa
- Palm Jumeirah
- Burj Al Arab
- Dubai Mall
- Dubai Fountain
- Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
- Dubai Miracle Garden
- Time of Your Travel
One final tip to remember is the time of your travel. In what season are you planning your trip to Dubai? Your answer affects the type of activities you want to do in Dubai.
We’ve already discussed the extreme summers of Dubai. For instance, no matter how much you love adventures or desert safaris, you might want to cancel due to the summer heat. The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March, when the weather is cooler.
The other point we talked about was Ramadan restrictions. If that concerns you, avoid visiting Dubai during Ramadan. Ramadan 2024 was from March 10 to April 9. Next year it’ll be from February 28 to March 30.
Apart from weather conditions, Dubai hosts many annual or seasonal festivals. If you’re interested in participating in one of them, you can plan your stay in Dubai accordingly. Here is a list of the best Dubai festivals:
- Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF): from December 6 to January 12
- Dubai International Jazz Festival: the 2025 jazz festival will be held from March 8 to March 10
- Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS): June 28 to September 1
- National Day Festival: December 2
- New Year Festival
Categorizing Dubai Things to Do
This city has an overwhelmingly high number of tourist attractions. So, let’s break them down into smaller categories. This way, it’ll be a lot easier to pick your favorite Dubai places to visit. We suggest you pick at least two attractions from each category. This way, you’ll have a personalized trip schedule and experience a vast range of activities.
Dubai Things to Do: Architectural Landmarks
These landmarks are praised because of their world-class architecture. Every traveler should see at least one or two items of this category.
- Burj Khalifa
- Palm Jumeirah
- Burj al-Arab
- Ain Dubai
- Dubai Marina
- The Dubai Frame
Outdoor & Adventure Activities
Visit these places to bring fun and excitement to your trip. Besides, for you adrenaline addicts out there, visiting museums might not be your ideal trip.
- Desert Safari & Dune Bashing
- Skydiving
- Aquaventure Waterpark
- Jet Skiing & Flyboarding
- Hot Air Balloon Ride
- Hatta Mountain Biking & Kayaking
- Ski Dubai
Cultural & Historical Experiences
Explore Dubai’s underrated side by visiting these cultural hubs. Find out what Dubai’s roots are beyond the 21st-century city it is today.
- Dubai Museum (Al Fahidi Fort)
- Al Fahidi Historic District
- Jumeirah Mosque
- Dubai Creek & Abra Ride
- Gold Souk & Spice Souk
- Etihad Museum
- Al Shindagha Museum
Leisure, Entertainment & Shopping
You don’t want to visit Dubai without buying one or two souvenirs. Visit Dubai’s world-famous malls. Besides, discover some fun family-friendly activities from this category.
- The Dubai Mall
- Mall of the Emirates
- Global Village
- Dubai Miracle Garden
- La Mer
- City Walk
- Dubai Opera
- Dubai Fountain Show
Last Word
We went over some of the best Dubai things to do that every tourist should visit, like Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, and the Miracle Garden. However, Dubai wonders are never-ending. Rent a car and explore the city yourself. And let us know what places we missed in Dubai.
We also covered some useful ways to categorize Dubai places to visit. We understand how hard it can be to decide what to do in Dubai. But considering your interests, the time of your travel, and its purpose can help you pick Dubai attractions.
FAQ
What is the most popular thing in Dubai?
The Burj Khalifa is Dubai’s most famous landmark and a must-see for visitors.
Is $100 a day enough in Dubai?
It can cover basic needs like public transport, cheap meals, and one activity, but it’s tight for mid-range travel.
What is the special attraction of Dubai?
Dubai’s charm lies in its mix of futuristic skyscrapers, luxury shopping, and unique desert experiences.
What is good to buy in Dubai?
Popular items include gold jewelry, Arabic perfumes, dates, designer brands, and electronics.
Is Dubai cheap for tourists?
Dubai is generally expensive, but with planning, you can find affordable food, transport, and accommodations.
Which month is best to visit Dubai?
Between November and March, when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor activities.
Can you drink in Dubai?
Yes, but only in licensed bars, restaurants, and hotels. Public drinking is not allowed.
Can I wear shorts in Dubai?
Yes, especially in tourist areas, but it’s best to dress modestly in public and religious places.
