Summer in Dubai is here, and while the heat is intense, it doesn’t mean you have to stay cooped up indoors. Discover the top nighttime activities to enjoy in Dubai during these sizzling months, from night swimming and visiting libraries to window-shopping at night markets, watching water shows, cruising in air-conditioned boats, and watching live musical performances in the malls. These are the top free things you can do in Dubai at night.
1. Watch the spectacular fountain show in Dubai Mall!
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Catch the breathtaking water and light show at Burj Khalifa Lake. Yes, the weather is humid and hot, but the show lasts just 30 minutes. After a shopping spree or a delicious meal in Dubai Mall, step outside to watch the spectacle, then head back indoors. The show runs daily from 6 PM to 11 PM. For an optimal experience, head to Time Out Market in Souk Al Bahar and watch the show from the terrace.
2. Have a lovely stroll and browse the shops at Souk Madinat.
Visit the Madinat Souk nearby for unique shopping and dining experiences with a view of the Burj Al Arab. This is a great place to unwind during the summer months in the glitzy city of Dubai.
Escape the humidity with a stroll through the Madinat Souk. Discover unique treasures or enjoy some window shopping. If you get hungry, Souk Al Bahar offers numerous restaurants and cafés. Here’s a tip: head to Costa Coffee, and just before the entrance, snap a perfect souvenir shot with the Burj Al Arab as your backdrop. There’s a theater in the souk and you can also check the shows whilst you are there.
Here’s an insider tip: If you want to visit the Burj Al Arab without spending thousands of dollars, you can book the “Inside the Burj” tour. You’ll get to see the famous golden room, enjoy a coffee and dates for free, and take in the stunning views of the Arabian Sea from the lounge. Read my honest review and experience here.
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3. Check out Mohammed Bin Rashid Library: A library with an indoor playground for kids!
The Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is a haven for bookworms and those seeking a quiet stroll through one of the largest libraries in the world. With sections tailored for every age group, it’s an ideal destination for families. The kids’ section features a playground and offers numerous interactive experiences. For a relaxing break, there’s a café where you can enjoy a cup of coffee, with credit card payments highly accepted. Remember to dress modestly, as this rule is strictly enforced. Additionally, the library hosts regular cultural events, workshops, and lectures, making it a vibrant hub of learning and community engagement.
4. Beat the heat with a refreshing night dip in Dubai’s Public Beaches.
Cool down with a night swim in Dubai’s public beaches such as the Umm Suqeim Beach, Jumeirah 1 and 2 and Dubai Island Beach.
Experience the magic of night swimming at Dubai’s public beaches. As the sun sets and the city’s skyline illuminates, the cool waters provide a refreshing escape from the daytime heat. All the beaches are equipped with swimming lamps, ensuring a safe and enjoyable swim under the stars. The Kite beach offers a stunning view of the Burj Al Arab, adding a touch of luxury to your evening swim. Night swimming in Dubai’s public beaches is a unique way to enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife while staying cool and relaxed.
5. Watch live shows in the malls of Dubai.
Discover the excitement of Dubai Summer Surprises (DSS), an annual shopping extravaganza celebrated across the city’s malls. Enjoy incredible discounts and captivating live shows for kids. Don’t miss the mesmerizing fountain show at Festival City promenade if you will visit that mall. One of the highlights of DSS is the abundance of free and entertaining activities tailored for kids within the malls. Experience the fun-filled live shows from late afternoon till evening hours. Explore DSS for unforgettable family entertainment and unbeatable shopping deals! Dubai Summer Suprises will kick off on 28th of June to 1st of September 2024.
6. Enjoy an evening cruise around Bluewaters Island and have a scrumptious dinner there.
Bluewaters Island offers spectacular views of Dubai’s skyline and boasts a variety of dining options. You can also visit the Madame Tussauds museum there. For a budget-friendly experience, consider a short boat trip in an air-conditioned water taxi, allowing you to explore Dubai from the water. For just 5 AED, you can enjoy a 25-minute boat ride. Entry to Bluewaters Island is free, and the boat ride is so affordable, it’s practically free too. For more details, read my blog about it here.
Visiting Dubai in the summer can be tough on the wallet, but these free activities offer both entertainment and enrichment for the whole family. Experience the top free things to do in Dubai at night!
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