Dubai is not just a luxurious destination for 5-star hotels, it’s also a dynamic city offering limitless experiences to travelers. From cultural trips to adventurous activities, fine dining options to must-see destinations, Dubai is an innovative city for all kinds of travelers. On this page, find our selection of the 30 unmissable things to do in Dubai and the cheapest deals online. All these activity ideas in Dubai are once-in-a-lifetime experiences, so make sure to read the whole list not to miss anything.
Helicopter tours in Dubai sell like hotcakes. It is one of the best sightseeing options with an adventurous touch. Fly over the Burj Khalifa, Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai Frame, Dubai Marina and many more. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience when you have the chance. This luxurious experience comes with various tour options. You can get a deal for a more extended tour over the scenic desert and the mountains or combo tickets. The tours usually take 15-30 minutes and can be extended depending on your option. The capacity is limited with a small group of 6 people, which allows you to share this experience with your friends or family!
Helicopter tours in Dubai sell like hotcakes. It is one of the best sightseeing options with an adventurous touch. Fly over the Burj Khalifa, Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai Frame, Dubai Marina and many more. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience when you have the chance. This luxurious experience comes with various tour options. You can get a deal for a more extended tour over the scenic desert and the mountains or combo tickets. The tours usually take 15-30 minutes and can be extended depending on your option. The capacity is limited with a small group of 6 people, which allows you to share this experience with your friends or family!
Best suited for adventurers, this adrenaline-pumping experience allows you to explore the city like you’ve never done before. Known as one of the longest zip lines in the whole world, XLine is 1 km in length and 170 meters in height. In the 2 parallel ziplines, you can either live this experience alone or slide down with your loved ones. Following the highest safety standards, you can capture stunning moments with your camera during the activity. Remember, it’s always advisable to book your ticket beforehand since it gets busy during the peak time and always wear comfortable clothes!
250 meters in height, Ain Dubai is the observatory wheel of Dubai, formerly known as Dubai Eye. Even though it’s closed for enchantments at the moment, this won’t stop you from admiring the beauty of Ain Dubai from afar. With a 60-minute cruise tour in the Marina, visitors are offered an open-air deck to watch stunning views of the gorgeous skyline and stop for a photo session in front of the Ain Dubai. Booking a cruise tour for Ain Dubai, travelers also get a chance to see the other districts, such as Jumeirah Beach Residence and more!
Located right next to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping and leisure destination. After a long day of sightseeing and doing adventurous activities, this is where you’ll want to end up for a unique shopping experience. With more than 1,300 stores, hundreds of food & drink options, over 200 luxury brands and endless entertainment options, such as The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and ice rink, this shopping and entertainment center is truly magical. The most luxurious hotels are also situated close to the Dubai Mall, so if you’re planning to book a hotel, definitely check this place out.
This multicultural vibrant marketplace is running from only October to April, so you better plan your trip accordingly. It offers a passport to hundred nations without ever leaving Dubai. With more than 90 cultural showcases, luxurious pavilions and numerous entertainment options, this is a must-visit destination to create unforgettable memories. To access the world’s largest international fair and taste many global cuisines, buy an entry ticket now. If you like, you can also select the ticket option with a meal voucher. It’s the biggest event of the year, so you’ll definitely not want to miss it.
Watching the spectacular show of the world’s tallest performing fountain is a must-do when you visit Dubai. The show takes place daily, from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm. With a different variety of music and water patterns, each show lasts for 5 minutes. Dubai Fountain is completely free to enjoy! However, if you desire to see this spectacular show up close, there are some tour options for you to choose from. For the best experience, you can buy a ticket for a traditional abra ride on the lake and watch the performance from a more distinguished view.
In a place where adrenaline-pumping slides meet lazy rivers and tropical vibes, it’s impossible not to have fun. The park has more than 30 rides and other attractions. There are fast slides for adventure seekers, but also more relaxing experiences for those who want to enjoy a peaceful vacation. There are 2 main tickets available, one of them is a day pass ticket and the other one includes an unlimited meal deal. There are combo tickets for the Wild Wadi, combining many other fun destinations like Dubai Miracle Garden or Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, for those who want to customize their experience and make the best out of this trip.
Located along the Dubai Creek, Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood allows you to take a step back in time and experience the charm of old Dubai with all its glory. With narrow alleyways, traditional wind towers and courtyard houses, it’s truly a magical place. In this neighborhood, you can explore the traditional souks, dine with the authentic Emirati cuisines, visit numerous art galleries and wander around the historical buildings. All you need for a cultural trip, Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood has it.
Helicopter tours in Dubai sell like hotcakes. It is one of the best sightseeing options with an adventurous touch. Fly over the Burj Khalifa, Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai Frame, Dubai Marina and many more. Don’t miss this once-in-a-lifetime experience when you have the chance. This luxurious experience comes with various tour options. You can get a deal for a more extended tour over the scenic desert and the mountains or combo tickets. The tours usually take 15-30 minutes and can be extended depending on your option. The capacity is limited with a small group of 6 people, which allows you to share this experience with your friends or family!
A table suspended 50 meters above the Marina, Dinner In The Sky is where you’ll have a one-of-a-kind dining experience. Dining with a gourmet meal while facing the magnificent view of the Dubai skyline, this is a must-do activity, if you’re brave enough. Using state-of-the-art equipment, the safety always comes first in Dinner In The Sky. Offering views of the Marina, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa and more, visitors enjoy tasty meals while they’re hanging in the sky. As a supervisor accompanies you on your journey into clouds, you’ll also get brief before starting dining.
For a captivating journey into the depths of the ocean, visit no place than the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. With giant tanks hosting more than 33,000 marine animals, you can witness colorful fish dances, majestic sharks and waddling penguins with all their cuteness. Situated at the Dubai Mall’s level 0, this place allows visitors to step into a whole different world under the water. Ensuring you to witness unique experiences, the aquarium is also home to the 750kg King Croc! Book your place on a guided tour now and start exploring the ocean!
Dubai’s one of the most popular beach destinations, the Kite Beach is a paradise for kite flyers. Especially popular amongst the watersports enthusiasts, you can try various sports including stand-up paddleboarding, flyboarding and kitesurfing. With white sands and gentle waves, the Kite Beach has more to offer than watersports. Located outside the Jumeirah neighborhood, there are many food options from beachside shacks to chic restaurants. With Burj Al Arab right in front of you, sun seekers and leisure travelers are welcomed to relax on the beach and swim in the crystal clear water.
A creative haven and cultural oasis in the heart of Dubai, Alserkal Avenue is a community of artists, entrepreneurs, and art enthusiasts. If you are looking for an art gallery visit before leaving the city, Alserkal Avenue has so much to offer. From various art galleries to studios and workshops, creative spaces to community events, Alserkal Avenue is a place to wander, discover, and connect with the creative spirit of Dubai. You can immerse yourself into diverse art styles and galleries, discover creative processes, find locally-made fashion pieces at boutique stores and many more!
This time, instead of exploring the history of Dubai, you are being offered a time travel into the future. With its unique torus shape and facade designed with Arabic calligraphy, Museum of the Future lets you explore limitless possibilities of what the future might look like. In this iconic museum, you can get lost in the Infinite Labs, in which you can have an interactive exhibit experience, witness real-world innovations that are already taking place in Tomorrow Today and let your children learn through interactive games and workshops in designated spaces. This is not just a museum, but a one-of-a-kind experience.
Dubai is full of opportunities for all kinds of people. Whether you fancy a really luxurious hotel stay, enjoy a vibrant night in the city or plan a beachside retreat, this is your city. In the middle of all these luxury and innovative projects, history and cultural heritage is also a part of Dubai. Traditional markets, called souks, are the places you’ll want to visit for a memorable journey. Best known markets in the city are the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, Textile Souk, Meena Bazaar and Bur Dubai Souk. Immerse yourself in these traditional wonders and explore the city’s heritage for an unforgettable experience.
Adrenaline junkies assemble! If you seek an adventurous experience, don’t end your trip without skydiving over the Palm Jumeirah. You can participate in this activity whether you’re a total beginner or an experienced one. Capture the moment to take it home with you and enjoy the magnificent sight below you! By booking a ticket for skydiving over the Palm, you’ll get an edited video of the entire dive and photographs of the moment. Visitors are offered with 60 seconds of free fall, expert instructors by their side, insurance and high-standard safety measures. Book your place now!
Hop-On Hop-Off Busses are perfect and the most convenient way for sightseeing. The fun part is, visitors get the chance to explore many destinations all at once! You are also free to choose your own timing option. Whether you want a 24-hour or 72-hour pass, you’re the boss of your own trip. Traveling more than 3 routes and 23 stops in the city, visitors explore the most famous attractions with audio guides. Many language options to choose from, you are provided with headphones through the journey. If you are short on time and want to explore the popular destinations all at once, this is a must-do activity while you’re still there.
Burj Al Arab is a symbol of Dubai’s wealth and luxury. Flooded with celebrities and wealthy guests all year long, the hotel is also a famous attraction among tourists. Being the only official 7-star hotel in the world, Burj Al Arab is a must-see in Dubai. Booking a tour to explore the inside of Burj Al Arab, visitors get a chance to have a unique journey in this iconic landmark. Learn what makes this place a legendary destination and see what it has to offer by your own eyes. Beware of the dress code and avoid wearing any of the restricted clothes.
This place isn’t just a golf & yacht club, but more like a prestigious haven for leisure and luxury. Situated in the vibrant city, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club was voted as one of the world’s “Top 100 Must-Play Golf Courses” by the magazine called Golf World. With its state-of-the-art facilities, distinctive hole designs, water sports options and private yacht charters, this place is a unique gateway for luxury-seeking travelers. Beyond the greens and the water, visitors also have access to various fine dining options, unique events and a relaxing experience in the spa.
This place isn’t just a golf & yacht club, but more like a prestigious haven for leisure and luxury. Situated in the vibrant city, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club was voted as one of the world’s “Top 100 Must-Play Golf Courses” by the magazine called Golf World. With its state-of-the-art facilities, distinctive hole designs, water sports options and private yacht charters, this place is a unique gateway for luxury-seeking travelers. Beyond the greens and the water, visitors also have access to various fine dining options, unique events and a relaxing experience in the spa.
Situated in the Atlantis, The Palm resort in Dubai, this aquarium is home to more than 65,000 marine animals, such as jellyfish, sharks and seahorses. Award-winning Lost Chambers Aquarium is one of the largest aquariums in the world, therefore it’s a very popular tourist destination. You can walk through the water tunnels to explore the marine animals up close, take a behind-the-scenes tour, have a joyful dining experience in the restaurants and go scuba diving if you like. You can either buy an entry ticket to begin exploring, or book a combo ticket to access both Aquaventure and the Lost Chambers Aquarium for a full experience.
Located within the Mall of Emirates, this indoor playground is a unique destination for winter lovers. Offering various snow-related activities, it provides many activities for all kinds of travelers. Don’t miss this winter wonderland in the middle of the desert! From thrill rides to penguin encounters, winter themed activities to snowboarding and ski lessons, this place has so much to offer for those who enjoy the cheerful snow. Whether you book a classic or a plus ticket, you are assured to have limitless fun with your loved ones.
Located within the Mall of Emirates, this indoor playground is a unique destination for winter lovers. Offering various snow-related activities, it provides many activities for all kinds of travelers. Don’t miss this winter wonderland in the middle of the desert! From thrill rides to penguin encounters, winter themed activities to snowboarding and ski lessons, this place has so much to offer for those who enjoy the cheerful snow. Whether you book a classic or a plus ticket, you are assured to have limitless fun with your loved ones.
Owned and operated by three brothers, the Orfali Bros Bistro is a well-known dining place located in the Wasl 51 neighborhood in Dubai. Known for its modern Mediterranean cuisine, it has a casual atmosphere and is a popular destination among the locals and tourists. The passionate owners of the restaurant are constantly experimenting with new dishes and flavors, which make the restaurant a fine dining place to discover. It has received many good reviews and critics, also has been featured in several publications. Whether for a romantic dinner or a family time, you can try this experimental restaurant to enjoy a fun dinner experience.
Docked at Port Rashid, the Queen Elizabeth 2 is a unique luxurious hotel transformed from an ocean liner. Also known as QE2, the ship firstly launched in 1969 and sailed the world over 40 years, which makes it a unique destination with a rich maritime history. Accessing most areas of the QE2 requires payment. You can either make a dining reservation in one of its restaurants, book a room in the hotel or get a ticket for an in-depth tour. QE2 tours offer various options for travelers. For the most convenient experience, you can get a skip-the-line with ship inside tour and lunch ticket.
Combining the magnificent sights of the city with delicious meals, going on a cruise dinner on the Dubai Water Canal is a truly magical experience. The cruise offers travelers glittering sights from the city, allowing them to explore famous Dubai landmarks from a different view. By booking a cruise dinner ticket on Dubai Water Canal, visitors can enjoy a 2-hour cruise on glass-encased dhows and have a memorable dining experience with their partners or friends. Dinner cruise tours offer various ticket options, from additional beverages to hotel transfers, so that you can customize this perfect experience as you like.
Parasailing over the Palm or Jumeirah Beach Residence offers great panoramic views from the city while enjoying the wind licking your face. Suitable for all kinds of travelers including children over 6 years old, you should have this thrilling experience before leaving Dubai. Parasailing offers differ from place to place, so you have many options to choose from for the best experience. While some of the operators offer personalized service for a customized experience, you can also simply book a place and start enjoying the winds of Dubai immediately.
Known for its architectural beauty, Jumeirah Mosque is one of the most iconic landmarks of Dubai. It is designed in the Fatimid tradition and was built from white stones and intricate carvings. With its “Open Doors, Open Minds” policy, the mosque opens its doors for non-Muslim visitors. While entering the mosque is free for non-Muslim tourists, the guided tours come with a small entrance fee. Daily guided tours take approximately 75 minutes and it is available in Arabic and English languages. Prior booking is not necessary and visitors should be considerate on their clothes.
A dynamic destination hosting seven levels of restaurants, Pier 7 offers a luxurious blend of dining, entertainment and magnificent views. Located in the Dubai Marina, Pier 7 includes 7 different restaurants that stand out with their unique location and breathtaking yacht views, skyscrapers and the beautiful Arabian Gulf. Offering international dining options in more than seven restaurants, Pier 7 is a perfect place to take your date for a romantic dinner. You can have a lovely experience in well-known restaurants such as Atelier M, The Scene by Simon Rimmer, Asia Asia and many more. After having a pleasurable time, you can catch the sunset on the terrace or indulge in various entertainment experiences!
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