Top 10 Things to Do in Dubai

01 Desert Safari Adventure
Tour

What it is: A thrilling excursion into the Arabian desert featuring dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and traditional entertainment at evening camps.

Why it’s special: The combination of adrenaline-pu...

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02Burj Khalifa Observation Deck
Tour

What it is: Visit the world’s tallest building and enjoy panoramic views of Dubai from the observation decks on floors 124, 125, and 148.

Why it’s special: Seeing the city’s skyline from this iconic landmark...

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03Dubai Mall & Aquarium Exploration
Tour

What it is: A massive shopping and entertainment complex that houses over 1,200 stores, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, and an indoor ice rink.

Why it’s special: Combining retail therapy with unique...

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04Dubai Marina Cruise
Tour

What it is: A relaxing cruise along the Dubai Marina waterways on a luxury yacht or traditional dhow boat.

Why it’s special: Guests experience glittering city lights, high-rise views, and options for dinner ...

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05Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates
Tour

What it is: An indoor ski resort offering skiing, snowboarding, and penguin encounters in a climate-controlled environment.

Why it’s special: Ski Dubai provides snow fun in the heart of the desert, making it...

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06Global Village Dubai
Tour

What it is: A seasonal cultural and entertainment destination showcasing pavilions from countries around the world, with food, performances, and shopping.

Why it’s special: It provides a cultural journey in ...

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07Jumeirah Beach Relaxation
Tour

What it is: Dubai’s iconic beach offering pristine sands, clear waters, and views of the Burj Al Arab.

Why it’s special: It combines luxury with leisure. Visitors can sunbathe, swim, enjoy water sports, or d...

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08Dubai Opera and Cultural Evenings
Tour

What it is: A world-class performing arts venue hosting operas, concerts, ballets, and theatrical performances.

Why it’s special: Dubai Opera offers a sophisticated cultural experience with stunning architec...

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09Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm
Tour

What it is: A large waterpark featuring slides, a lazy river, splash pools, and marine animal encounters.

Why it’s special: It is one of the most thrilling family attractions in Dubai, combining fun with uni...

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10Dubai Miracle Garden
Tour

What it is: An expansive floral garden with over 150 million flowers arranged in artistic designs and themed displays.

Why it’s special: It offers vibrant photo opportunities and a colourful, serene experien...

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Adventure and Nature-Based Activities in Dubai

01Water-Based Adventure
Tour
  • Jet Skiing along Jumeirah Coastline: Race across turquoise waters with stunning views of the Burj Al Arab. Ideal for adrenaline junkies and photography enthusiasts.
  • Parasailing over Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Ma...
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02Unique Jungle or Wildlife Encounters
Tour
  • Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary: Home to thousands of flamingos and migratory birds. Visitors can observe wildlife from designated hides, making it one of the most serene things to do in Dubai.
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Cultural and Spiritual Activities in Dubai

01Visiting Temples and Religious Sites
Tour
  • Jumeirah Mosque: One of the few mosques in Dubai open to non-Muslim visitors. Guided tours provide insight into Islamic culture, architecture, and traditions.
  • Sikh Gurudwara in Bur Dubai: Offers a we...
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02Participating in Ceremonies or Rituals
Tour
  • Traditional Emirati Ceremonies: Visitors can watch or join cultural performances, including henna application, falconry demonstrations, and camel racing festivals.
  • Ramadan Experiences: Certain hotels...
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03Exploring Local Art, Dance, and Cuisine
Tour
  • Alserkal Avenue: Dubai’s contemporary art district features galleries, performance spaces, and installations that highlight both Emirati and international artists.
  • Traditional Music and Dance: Shows ...
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Off the Beaten Path: Unique Things to Do in Dubai

01Offbeat Spots
Tour
  • Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: Wander through narrow lanes lined with traditional wind-tower houses, art galleries, and quaint cafés. It provides a glimpse into Dubai’s pre-modern history, away from the bustling city.
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02Quiet Villages
Tour
  • Hatta Heritage Village: Nestled in the Hajar Mountains, this restored village offers traditional mud-brick houses and a peaceful environment to explore Emirati heritage.
  • Al Seef District: While gaini...
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03Unexpected Local Activities
Tour
  • Desert Stargazing: Away from city lights, several desert spots offer guided stargazing sessions, revealing constellations visible only in clear desert skies.
  • Fishing Trips in Dubai Creek: Join local ...
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Free and Low-Cost Things to Do in Dubai

01Free Sightseeing
Tour
  • Dubai Fountain Show: Located outside Dubai Mall, the choreographed water and light show is free to watch and runs in the evenings every 30 minutes.
  • Al Seef Promenade: Walk along Dubai Creek to enjoy ...
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02Local Markets
Tour
  • Gold and Spice Souks in Deira: Wander through bustling alleys filled with fragrant spices, jewellery, and souvenirs. Bargaining adds to the fun and keeps costs low.
  • Textile Souk: Explore colourful fa...
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03Community Experiences
Tour
  • Cultural Festivals: Many free events celebrate Emirati heritage, such as National Day parades and public performances.
  • Public Art Installations: Areas like City Walk and Alserkal Avenue feature stree...
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

The best thing to do in Dubai depends on your interests. For adventure lovers, a desert safari is a must, offering dune bashing, camel rides, and evening cultural shows. Couples can enjoy a romantic cruise along Dubai Marina, while families may prefer visiting the Dubai Aquarium or Aquaventure Waterpark. Downtown Dubai and Burj Khalifa visits are iconic experiences for first-time visitors. Planning around these highlights ensures you enjoy some of the top things to do in Dubai, whether you prefer adventure, leisure, or cultural exploration.

Yes, a 7-day itinerary is ideal for experiencing the things to do in Dubai without feeling rushed. You can combine urban sightseeing, desert adventures, beach relaxation, and cultural exploration. Spend a couple of days at Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Marina, one day in the desert, another exploring heritage areas like Al Fahidi, and a day for beach or water activities. Families, couples, and solo travellers can comfortably cover the top things to do in Dubai while leaving time for hidden gems and local experiences.

A budget of INR 1 lakh can cover a 5–7-day Dubai trip if planned wisely. Mid-range Dubai hotels, local dining, sightseeing, and entry fees for popular attractions can be managed within this budget. Desert safaris and a few guided tours are affordable, while luxury dining or premium experiences may require additional funds. Booking in advance and using Dubai tour packages or online discounts helps maximise the budget. Even with INR 1 lakh, travellers can enjoy most of the top things to do in Dubai without compromising comfort.

Popular activities include desert safaris, Dubai Mall exploration, Burj Khalifa visits, Dubai Fountain shows, and Marina cruises. Families enjoy Aquaventure Waterpark and Dubai Aquarium, while adventure seekers try dune bashing, jet skiing, or flyboarding. Cultural experiences, including Al Fahidi tours and visits to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, are also in demand. These experiences represent the best mix of things to do in Dubai, catering to tourists of all types, from first-time visitors to repeat travellers seeking diverse experiences across the city.

First-time visitors should prioritise iconic experiences such as visiting Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Fountain. A desert safari introduces travellers to the emirate’s natural landscapes, while Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach provide relaxation and entertainment. Cultural visits to Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary offer insights into local heritage. Combining these activities ensures a comprehensive introduction to the things to do in Dubai, capturing the city’s luxury, adventure, and cultural facets efficiently.

Must-try cultural experiences include exploring Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, participating in desert camp traditions, visiting the Dubai Museum, and witnessing traditional music or dance performances. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary and Hatta Heritage Village provide insights into local nature and heritage. Attending seasonal festivals or Ramadan events also adds authenticity to your trip. These are among the top things to do in Dubai for travellers who wish to connect with the city’s history, arts, and traditional customs.

Yes, Dubai offers numerous offbeat experiences. Al Qudra Lake and desert stargazing provide quiet escapes. Visitors can try art workshops at Alserkal Avenue, take a cycling tour through Hatta mountains, or experience falconry demonstrations. Local cooking classes and small cultural markets offer hands-on interaction with Emirati traditions. These unique activities enrich your itinerary and highlight lesser-known things to do in Dubai, making your trip more memorable beyond conventional sightseeing.

Dubai’s nightlife is diverse. Options include cruising along Dubai Marina, watching the Dubai Fountain show, enjoying rooftop dining, or attending performances at Dubai Opera. Desert safaris also include evening cultural camps with traditional music, dance, and BBQ dinners. For a more relaxed evening, the Miracle Garden and Global Village host illuminated displays. Nighttime in Dubai provides a mix of leisure, entertainment, and cultural experiences, representing the top things to do in Dubai for couples, families, and solo travellers alike.

Though known for the desert and urban skyline, Dubai offers trekking opportunities in the Hajar Mountains and Hatta region. Hatta Hill Park and surrounding trails provide moderate hiking with scenic mountain and lake views. Desert dunes also offer adventurous trekking, particularly during cooler months. These activities combine fitness, adventure, and stunning landscapes, making them some of the most rewarding things to do in Dubai for outdoor enthusiasts seeking a mix of nature and exercise.

Dubai’s culinary scene is a fusion of Emirati, Middle Eastern, and international cuisines. Must-try dishes include machboos, shawarma, luqaimat, and fresh seafood. Food tours in areas like Deira, Al Seef, and Global Village allow travellers to sample local street food, sweets, and spices while exploring historic markets. Luxury dining at Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai offers high-end experiences for food enthusiasts. These tours are among the top things to do in Dubai, combining flavour, culture, and sightseeing for a complete culinary adventure.

Absolutely. A desert safari is one of the most iconic things to do in Dubai, combining adventure, culture, and natural beauty. Activities include dune bashing, sandboarding, camel rides, and evening camp experiences with live music, belly dancing, and traditional meals. It is ideal for families, couples, and solo travellers seeking both thrill and cultural immersion. Scheduling a desert safari during cooler months ensures comfort, making it a highlight of your Dubai itinerary and a memorable representation of the emirate’s unique landscapes.

Dubai’s beaches offer more than sunbathing. Popular activities include jet skiing, parasailing, paddleboarding, kayaking, and flyboarding. Jumeirah Beach, Kite Beach, and La Mer are hotspots for these adventures. Visitors can also enjoy relaxing beach walks, picnics, and waterfront dining. For families, beachside playgrounds and water sports make these areas highly appealing. Beach activities rank among the top things to do in Dubai, providing both relaxation and excitement along the city’s famous coastline.

Yes. Dubai hosts numerous cultural, food, and music festivals throughout the year. Highlights include the Dubai Shopping Festival, the Dubai Food Festival, and the National Day celebrations with parades and performances. Ramadan events, art exhibitions, and Global Village seasonal celebrations also offer immersive experiences. Tourists can witness traditions, performances, and community gatherings firsthand. Participating in festivals is one of the most engaging things to do in Dubai, providing cultural insight and memorable experiences for families, couples, and solo travellers.

Family-friendly activities include visiting the Dubai Aquarium, Aquaventure Waterpark, KidZania, and Dubai Miracle Garden. Desert safaris with camel rides, dune bashing, and interactive cultural shows are also popular with children. Beaches like Jumeirah Beach and Kite Beach offer safe swimming and play areas. These activities are among the top things to do in Dubai for families, combining fun, adventure, and educational experiences that appeal to children of all ages.

Dubai’s coastline offers diverse water sports such as jet skiing, parasailing, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, kayaking, and flyboarding. Popular locations include Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Marina, and La Mer. Beginners can opt for guided lessons, while experienced enthusiasts can enjoy high-speed adventure. Water sports are considered essential things to do in Dubai, blending thrill, fitness, and scenic views for families, couples, and solo travellers.

Dubai offers several spiritual and wellness experiences, including yoga classes on beaches, meditation retreats in desert resorts, and visits to mosques and temples. Some hotels also provide spa treatments inspired by Middle Eastern traditions. Participating in these activities allows travellers to relax, reflect, and connect with the city’s cultural and spiritual heritage. These experiences are among the top things to do in Dubai, adding balance and tranquillity to an otherwise adventure-filled itinerary.

Couples can enjoy romantic desert safaris with private dinners under the stars, luxury cruises along Dubai Marina, and sunset visits to Burj Khalifa. Rooftop dining, beach walks, and spa treatments at premium resorts enhance the experience. Cultural experiences, such as visiting Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood or attending Dubai Opera, offer meaningful shared moments. These activities rank among the top things to do in Dubai, creating memorable and intimate experiences for couples visiting the emirate.

priyanka gosavi
priyanka gosavi
Reviewed:
My trip ti dubai arranged by journey routers was amazing. Great experience and the team was very nice,polite and helpful Kireet was our co-ordinator who arranged everything for us and explained everything in detail which was very much helpful to us Planning to connect again with jouney routers for our next trip…....read more