Are you ready for an adventure in the city of Gold? Dubai is one of the most exciting cities in the world. With its stunning skyscrapers, luxurious resorts, and world-class attractions, there’s never a shortage of things to see and do in this vibrant city. In this article, we’ll take you on a journey through the 10 best things to do in Dubai, from soaring to new heights at the top of the Burj Khalifa, to shopping Dubai Mall, to experiencing the thrill of a desert safari.
Read more: The 10 Best Things to Do in DubaiAs an established and long-term Dubai resident, I’ll also share with you some tips and tricks as well as hidden gems, where UAE residents dine and wine. So, let’s dive in and explore the best that Dubai has to offer!
1. Tour Burj Khalifa: The tallest building in the world with breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck.
First is Burj Khalifa. It’s an architectural marvel that towers over the Dubai skyline, standing at an impressive 828 meters high. It is the tallest building in the world, and an iconic landmark that is synonymous with Dubai since 2010. If it’s your first-time to visit our amazing city, then you must not skip this tour. To explore this jaw-dropping tower, you can take an elevator to the observation deck, located on the 124th floor, and enjoy panoramic views of the city below. From this vantage point, visitors can see the city’s stunning skyline, as well as the vast expanse of desert that surrounds it. At night, the building is illuminated with stunning light displays that are visible for miles around, creating a spectacular sight that must be seen to be believed.
You can book the ticket online through GetyourGuide and skip the queue! Plus, you can also cancel the tour without further charges.
After touring Burj Khalifa, you can experience dining at one of the fanciest restaurants in Dubai. Meditteraneo is a Mediterranean restaurant located in Armani Hotel. Book a seat at the balcony for a dazzling dinner and enjoy your meal with an entertaining water and light show of the Dubai Fountain.
If you long for a laid-back dining spot, then head to Time Out Market Souk Al Bahar. It’s located on the second floor and you’ll get to experience a trendy food scene with lots of options such as Italian, Mexican, Arabic, Japanese and Vietnamese cuisines. This trendy spot offers live entertainment too.
2. Check out Dubai Mall: One of the world’s largest malls with over 1,200 retail outlets, has an indoor theme park, and the largest indoor aquarium in the world.
Next stop is Dubai Mall. This mall is more than just a shopping destination. It’s a world of adventure waiting to be explored, especially for families with kids! Get ready to explore the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo as well as the thrilling VR Park. Children can experience the magic of the Dubai Ice Rink, or witness the spectacular Dubai Fountain show that will leave them spellbound. Plus, the mall is home to a variety of restaurants and cafes to satisfy your taste buds.
My kids love the glass boat ride at the aquarium. It was fun and quite different from the other boat rides that we did. They saw sharks and sting rays up close and enjoyed the short cruise inside an aquarium. So, if you’re planning to visit Dubai mall, make sure to check out the World’s Largest Indoor Aquarium.
3. Watch the impressive Dubai Fountain Show: A stunning water and light show with the Burj Khalifa as its backdrop.
Furthermore, the Dubai Fountain show in Dubai Mall is a must-do activity for anyone visiting Dubai. The sheer size and scale of the fountain, combined with the surrounding architectural marvels, create a mesmerizing atmosphere that will leave you awestruck. The best part is that the show is absolutely free and can be enjoyed by all ages. So, if you’re looking for a fun and exciting way to spend an evening in Dubai, make sure to add the Dubai Fountain show to your itinerary.
Here’s a useful tip. If you wanted to get the best view of the fountain show without the crowd, head to Souk Al Bahar. Just cross the bridge from Dubai Mall to Souk Al Bahar and get a spot near one of the entrances. You’ll have a front row view of the fountain show. The other option is by booking a table in one of the restaurants in Souk Al Bahar such as Time Out Market. They have seating areas where you can catch a glimpse of the fountain show while dining in style.
4. Visit the Palm Jumeirah- a stunning architectural wonder, an island built in the shape of a palm tree. It offers a unique sightseeing experience, with a range of hotels, restaurants, and shops lining the island.
Visiting this island is one of the 10 best things to do in Dubai. You can book a tour of The View, which will give you access to the observation deck. During the tour, you will learn about the construction of Palm Jumeirah and the history of Dubai.
Moreover, Palm Jumeirah offers range of attractions, including the Aquaventure Waterpark, and the Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis hotel. There are also many luxury hotels and resorts, where you can dine, enjoy a spa or pool day.
One of my favourite hotel and beach resorts in the island is the Raffles Hotel. I love the pool with a mini jacuzzi and the private beach overlooking the Arabian Sea. Plus, the courtyard and the garden makes you feel you have been whisked away to Versailles.
Moreover, for a laid-back day, head over to the West Palm Beach and have a cuppa at Jones the Grocer. This all-day dining restaurant offers scrumptious breakfast on the beach! And it has the best views of Dubai’s skyline as well.
5. Explore Dubai Miracle Garden- a massive flower garden with around 150 million flowers arranged in various shapes and patterns.
Dubai Miracle Garden is a true nature wonderland of colorful and intricate floral arrangements in Dubai. With over 150 million blooming flowers in a stunning array of shapes and colors, it is the world’s largest flower garden. The garden’s expert team of horticulturists work tirelessly to create unique and stunning displays each season, making it an ever-changing and enchanting experience for visitors of all ages. From heart-shaped flower arches and giant floral structures to serene butterfly gardens and aromatic herb displays. Dubai Miracle Garden is a sensory feast for the eyes and nose. This magical oasis is a perfect place to spend a peaceful afternoon with family and capture stunning photographs.
My favorite spot in this amazing garden is the floral installation of a life-sized A380 airline and the seating areas near the heart-shaped flower arches. These are really picturesque and perfect for a photoshoot.
6. Cruise around Bluewaters Island and JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence)- these places offer a stunning waterfront promenade experience with world-class entertainment, dining, and shopping options surrounded by breath-taking views of the city skyline and the Arabian Gulf.
If you are looking for a unique and fun outdoor experience in Dubai in the evening, then have a walk around Bluewaters Island and JBR Beach. The vibrant energy and stunning architecture of Bluewaters Island will leave you in awe . You can marvel at the impressive Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, and snap pictures of the breathtaking views of the city skyline. Then, head over to Jumeirah Beach Residence and take a leisurely stroll along the beachfront promenade, where you will be surrounded by an eclectic mix of restaurants, cafes, and shops. With its perfect mix of entertainment, shopping, and natural beauty, Bluewaters Island and JBR offer a truly memorable experience that you simply can’t miss when visiting Dubai.
Here’s a tip. Stroll towards JBR Beachfront. Have a cuppa or dinner in one of the restaurants there. Then head over to the bridge that connects JBR and Bluewaters Island. You’ll get a panoramic view of Ain Dubai as well as Dubai’s skyline. Enjoy the picturesque views of the water and the blue sky.
7. Experience Ski Dubai- an indoor ski resort in the Mall of the Emirates, featuring real snow and slopes for skiing, tobogganing and making snow balls.
Ski Dubai is a one-of-a-kind indoor ski resort that offers a unique and thrilling experience for families and adrenaline junkies alike. It has a variety of slopes and runs suitable for all skill levels, from beginners to advanced skiers and snowboarders. Ski Dubai is the perfect place to try skiing or snowboarding for the first time or to hone your skills. The indoor ski resort maintains a constant temperature of 2°C, providing an authentic snow experience all year round. The Snow Park offers fun and exciting activities such as tobogganing, zip-lining, and a penguin encounter. For adrenaline junkies, Ski Dubai offers a 150-meter-long indoor ski slope that provides a thrilling downhill skiing experience. With its unique combination of entertainment and adventure, Ski Dubai is a must-visit attraction that promises to deliver an unforgettable experience for the whole family.
I’ve visited Ski Dubai many times with my two school-aged kids, and we have never ever been disappointed. We love visiting this place anytime of the year. Our favourite area is the cafe on the ski slope. My kids enjoy riding the open ski lift and have a hot coco after the ride. If you love snow, then head over to Ski Dubai. Make sure to ride the ski lift and sit outside the cafe. The outdoor seating area offers exciting views of the skiers and the slopes.
8. Sun-bathe at the Kite Beach in Jumeirah.
The kite beach is a little slice of paradise that needs to be experienced to be believed. This pristine stretch of sand boasts crystal-clear waters, jaw-dropping views of the city skyline, and a constant breeze that makes it a haven for kite surfers and beach lovers alike. Whether you’re looking to soak up the sun, try your hand at water sports, or simply indulge in some delicious beachside dining, Kite Beach has everything you need. So, pack your sunscreen, grab your shades, and get ready to be blown away by the beauty of Kite Beach.
Evening walks at this place are my personal favourite! The serene atmosphere and picturesque sunset views make for a truly rejuvenating experience. With soft sand beneath my toes, I feel more connected to nature and the world around me. So have a go and have a leisurely stroll and unwind as you soak up the tranquil beauty of this place.
9. Cruise around Dubai Creek and visit the Al Fahidi District.
The Dubai Creek and the traditional Abra boats are a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Dubai. One of the main reasons to visit this historic waterway is to experience the unique blend of old and new that Dubai has to offer. The creek has played a vital role in the city’s development as a trading hub, and the Abra boats are a traditional mode of transport that have been used for centuries. A ride on an Abra boat provides an opportunity to see the city from a different perspective and soak up the local culture. Moreover, the creek is also surrounded by a number of iconic landmarks such as the Dubai Museum, Al Fahidi Historical District, and the Spice and Gold Souks, which offer a glimpse into the city’s rich history and heritage. Overall, a visit to the Dubai Creek and a ride on an Abra boat is a unique and unforgettable experience that shouldn’t be missed.
10. Experience the Best of Dubai’s Past, Present, and Future with the breathtaking Dubai Frame.
The Dubai Frame is a stunning architectural masterpiece that offers visitors a unique perspective on the city’s past, present, and future. Standing at 150 meters tall, this towering structure provides panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline, the old town of Dubai and the new glitzy districts. With its state-of-the-art technology and interactive exhibits, the Dubai Frame takes visitors on a journey through the city’s history, showcasing its transformation from a small fishing village to a bustling metropolis. Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for an unforgettable experience, the Dubai Frame is a must-do in Dubai that will leave you awestruck.
Plan your day-out late in the afternoon and catch one of the most beautiful sunsets of your lifetime.
