This article has been reviewed by Laura and Sumeet, travel enthusiasts who have travelled to 40+ countries. (Follow @Ciao.Namaste on Youtube). Should you have any inquiries, please do not hesitate to contact at contact@exploremonde.com
Dubai is a city of contrasts, where the old and new, the traditional and the modern, coexist side by side. From the towering Burj Khalifa to the traditional souks of Deira, there is something for everyone in Dubai.
Top 4 Iconic Things To Do in Dubai
Here are some of the iconic and absolutely must-do things to do in Dubai, UAE:
1. Burj Khalifa: The World’s Tallest Skyscraper
Visit the observation deck: The Burj Khalifa has two observation decks, located on the 124th and 148th floors. The 124th floor is the more popular option, as it offers stunning views of Dubai without the need for a special ticket. The 148th floor is only accessible with a special ticket, but it offers even more incredible views.
Have dinner at At.mosphere: At.mosphere is the world’s highest restaurant, located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa. The restaurant offers stunning views of Dubai and a fine dining experience.
Take a skydive: If you’re feeling adventurous, you can take a skydive from the Burj Khalifa. This is an unforgettable experience, but it’s not for the faint of heart!
Go shopping: There are a number of shops and boutiques located in Burj Khalifa, including a Louis Vuitton store and a Gucci store.
2. The Dubai Mall: Shop ‘Til You Drop
Shop with your family: The Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall in the world, with over 1,200 stores. You’ll find everything you could ever want or need here, from high-end designer brands to affordable souvenirs.
The Dubai Aquarium is home to over 140,000 marine animals, including sharks, rays, and jellyfish. You can take a walk through the underwater tunnel and get a close-up view of the animals.
The Dubai Mall has an Olympic-sized ice rink where you can go ice skating. It’s a great way to cool off on a hot day, and it’s also a lot of fun.
Kidzania is a children’s entertainment center where kids can learn about different professions. They can pretend to be doctors, firefighters, pilots, and more. This makes the Dubai Mall one of the best things to do in Dubai.
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Eat with your family. The Dubai Mall has over 200 restaurants, so you’re sure to find something to your taste. There are restaurants serving food from all over the world, so you can find something to satisfy your cravings.
3. The Dubai Fountain: A Water and Light Spectacle
The Dubai Fountain is a choreographed water and light show that takes place every 30 minutes. It’s a truly mesmerizing sight, and it’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai. The show is set to a variety of music, including classical, Arabic, and pop songs.
You can get closer to the action by taking a stroll on the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk. This is a floating platform that extends out into the lake, and it gives you a great view of the fountain.
You can also take a ride on a boat on the lake. This is a great way to see the fountain from a different perspective, and it also gives you a chance to cool off on a hot day.
4. Dubai Marina: Stroll along the Stunning Waterfront
The Dubai Marina Boardwalk is a great place to stroll, take a bike ride, or just relax and enjoy the views
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A dhow cruise is a great way to see the Dubai Marina and the city skyline from a different perspective. You can also enjoy a traditional Arabic dinner on a dhow cruise.
If you’re feeling adventurous, you can go skydiving over Dubai Marina. This is an unforgettable experience that you’ll never forget.
There are a number of companies that offer boat rides in Dubai Marina. This is a great way to see the marina from a different perspective and get up close to the superyachts.
Top 3 Adventurous Things to Do in Dubai Desert
1. Desert Safari: Thrills in the Sand Dunes
This is a popular activity that takes you on a 4×4 dune-bashing adventure through the desert. You’ll get to experience the thrill of speeding up and down the sand dunes, and you might even get to try your hand at sandboarding. The desert safari usually also includes a camel ride, a traditional Arabic dinner, and some entertainment, such as belly dancing or henna tattooing.
2. Camel Riding: A Traditional Desert Experience
This is a more traditional way to experience the desert. You’ll get to ride a camel through the sand dunes, and you can learn about the history and culture of camel herding in the UAE. Camel riding is a great way to get up close to these amazing animals and experience the peace and tranquility of the desert.
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3. Hot Air Balloon Rides: Aerial Views of the Desert Landscape
This is one of the best things to do in Dubai and a once-in-a-lifetime experience that allows you to see the desert from a bird’s eye view. You’ll float silently over the sand dunes, and you can take in the stunning views of the desert landscape. Hot air balloon rides are usually offered at sunrise or sunset, so you can enjoy the beautiful colors of the desert sky.
Top 3 Cultural and Historical Things To Do in Dubai
1. Dubai Museum: Journey through Time
The Dubai Museum is a great place to learn about the history and culture of Dubai. It is located in the heart of the city, in the Al Fahidi Historical District. The museum is housed in a restored fort, which was built in the 18th century.
The museum’s exhibits take you on a journey through time, from the early days of Dubai as a fishing and pearl diving village to its transformation into a modern metropolis. You can see traditional artifacts, such as fishing nets and Shows, as well as more modern items, such as photographs and videos of Dubai’s development.
There are also interactive exhibits that allow you to learn about Dubai’s history and culture in a fun and engaging way. For example, you can try on traditional clothing, learn how to write Arabic or take a virtual tour of the city.
The Dubai Museum is a great place to spend a few hours if you’re interested in learning about the history and culture of Dubai. It is open from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., from Saturday to Thursday, and from 2:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. on Fridays.
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The ticket price for adults is AED30, and for children (ages 6-17) is AED15. Children under the age of 6 are free.
2. Al Fahidi Historic Neighborhood: A Glimpse into Old Dubai
Al Fahidi Historic Neighborhood is a district in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is located on the eastern side of Dubai Creek and is home to a number of traditional Emirati buildings. The neighborhood was built in the 1890s and is considered to be one of the oldest surviving areas in Dubai.
The buildings in the Al Fahidi Historic Neighborhood are made of coral stone, mudbrick, and palm wood. They are characterized by their wind towers, which are used to provide natural ventilation. The neighborhood is also home to a number of mosques, souks, and museums.
One of the most popular attractions in the Al Fahidi Historic Neighborhood is the Dubai Museum. The museum is housed in a restored fort and tells the story of Dubai’s history and culture. Another popular attraction is the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. This center offers a variety of cultural programs and activities, including tours of the neighborhood, cooking classes, and Arabic language lessons.
3. Jumeirah Mosque: An Architectural Marvel
The Jumeirah Mosque is an architectural marvel located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai and is open to non-Muslims for guided tours. The mosque was built in 1979 in the traditional Fatimid style, which originated from Syria and Egypt. It is made of white marble and limestone and has a large central dome and two minarets. The interior of the mosque is beautifully decorated with intricate Islamic patterns.
The Jumeirah Mosque is a symbol of Dubai’s openness and tolerance. It is a place where people of all faiths can come to learn about Islam and its culture.
Here are some tips for visiting the Jumeirah Mosque:
- Dress modestly. Women should cover their hair and shoulders, and men should wear long pants and shirts.
- Remove your shoes before entering the mosque.
- Be respectful of the mosque and its surroundings.
- Take a guided tour to learn more about the mosque and its history.
3 Things to Do in Dubai for Dining and Nightlife
1. Dubai’s Culinary Scene: From Street Food to Fine Dining
Dubai has a vibrant culinary scene, with restaurants serving everything from street food to fine dining. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, you could try Al Mahara, a seafood restaurant located inside the Burj Al Arab. Or, if you’re in the mood for something more casual, there are plenty of great street food options to choose from. For a truly luxurious dining experience, book a table at At.mosphere, the highest restaurant in the world.
2. Rooftop Bars: Enjoy the Cityscape Views
Dubai has some amazing rooftop bars with stunning views of the city skyline. For a truly romantic evening, head to The Ivy Rooftop. Or, if you’re looking for a more lively atmosphere, try Level 31 at the Address Downtown Dubai.
3. Dubai Opera: A Night of Entertainment
The Dubai Opera is a world-class performing arts venue that hosts a variety of shows, from opera and ballet to concerts and comedy. If you’re looking for a night of entertainment, be sure to check out the Dubai Opera’s schedule.
3 Things to do in Dubai for a Beach Getaway
1. Jumeirah Beach: Relaxation by the Arabian Gulf
This is the most popular beach in Dubai and is known for its relaxed atmosphere and stunning views of the Burj Al Arab. It is a great place to relax and soak up the sun, or to go for a swim in the clear waters of the Arabian Gulf.
2. Kite Beach: Water Sports and Beach Activities
This beach is located in the heart of Dubai and is a popular spot for water sports enthusiasts. It is known for its strong winds, which make it ideal for kitesurfing and windsurfing. There are also a number of other water sports activities available, such as stand-up paddleboarding and kayaking.
3. La Mer: A Trendy Beachfront Destination
This is a newer beachfront destination that is quickly becoming popular with tourists and locals alike. It is known for its trendy beach bars and restaurants, as well as its vibrant atmosphere. There are also a number of family-friendly activities available, such as bungee trampolines and water slides.
Things to Do in Dubai with Family
1. Dubai Parks and Resorts: Theme Park Fun
It is a massive theme park complex with four different theme parks: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, LEGOLAND Dubai, and LEGOLAND Water Park. There is something for everyone at Dubai Parks and Resorts, from thrilling roller coasters to gentle rides for young children. The parks also have a variety of shows, restaurants, and shops.
2. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: A Fascinating Underwater World
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is home to over 140 species of marine life, including sharks, rays, and jellyfish. Visitors can take a walk through the underwater tunnel or watch the animals from the viewing gallery. There is also a petting pool where children can touch some of the animals.
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3. KidZania: Edutainment for Children
KidZania is an educational entertainment center where children can learn about different professions by playing. There are over 60 different activities to choose from, such as being a firefighter, a doctor, or a pilot. KidZania is a great way for children to learn about the world and have fun at the same time.
Things to do in Dubai for a Shopping Adventure
1. Souks in Dubai: Traditional Marketplaces
Dubai is home to a number of traditional souks, or marketplaces. These souks are a great place to find souvenirs, spices, textiles, and other locally-made goods. Some of the most popular souks include:
Dubai Gold Souk: This is the world’s largest gold souk, with over 200 shops selling gold and jewelry.
Spice Souk: This souk is a great place to find spices, herbs, and other dried goods.
Al Ghurair Textile Souk: This souk is a great place to find fabrics, clothing, and other textiles.
Naif Souk: This souk is a great place to find electronics, home goods, and other general merchandise.
2. Outlet Malls: Bargain Shopping
Dubai has a number of outlet malls where you can find discounted designer clothing, shoes, and other merchandise. Some of the most popular outlet malls include:
Dubai Outlet Mall: This is the largest outlet mall in Dubai, with over 200 stores
Wafi City Outlets: This outlet mall is located in the Wafi City shopping complex.
Dragon Mart: This is a large Chinese-themed mall with over 6,000 stores. It is a great place to find souvenirs, electronics, and other imported goods.
Things to do in Dubai for relaxation and rejuvenation
1. Spa Retreats: Pamper Yourself in Luxury
Dubai has a number of luxurious spas where you can pamper yourself with massages, facials, and other treatments. Some of the most popular spas include:
- Anantara Spa at The Palm Dubai
2. Yoga by the Beach: Find Inner Peace
There are many yoga studios in Dubai that offer classes by the beach. This is a great way to relax and rejuvenate while enjoying the beautiful scenery.
3. Wellness Retreats in the Desert
There are a number of wellness retreats in the desert where you can disconnect from the hustle and bustle of city life and focus on your physical and mental health. These retreats often offer activities such as yoga, meditation, and desert walks.
Tips for Visiting Dubai
Best time to visit: Dubai has a hot climate, so the best time to visit is during the cooler months, from November to March. However, the weather is pleasant year-round, so you can visit Dubai at any time.
Visa requirements: Citizens of most countries can get a visa on arrival in Dubai. However, it is advisable to check the visa requirements for your country of citizenship before you travel.
Currency and money-saving tips: The currency in Dubai is the UAE Dirham (AED). You can exchange your currency for AED at the airport or at any bank or exchange bureau in Dubai. There are a number of ways to save money in Dubai, such as:
- Staying in a budget hotel or hostel
- Eating at street food stalls or local restaurants
- Using public transportation
- Taking advantage of free or discounted activities
Cultural norms and etiquette:
Dubai is a Muslim country, so it is important to be respectful of the local culture and etiquette. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites.
- Avoid public displays of affection.
- Do not drink alcohol in public unless you are in a licensed establishment.
- Be mindful of your surroundings and avoid taking photos of people without their permission.
Note: The hours of operation, ticket prices, and admission criteria of museums, parks, etc. may change from time to time. For the most updated information, we recommend checking the official website of the attraction directly prior to your planned visit.
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