The beautiful city of Dubai is a destination that has something for everyone. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a culture enthusiast, or just looking for some fun in the sun, you can find it all here! From world-class shopping to mesmerizing desert safaris, there are endless possibilities of exciting activities and attractions to explore in this remarkable city. Here are the top 10 most exciting activities to do in Dubai that will make your trip unforgettable.
City Sightseeing
Dubai is a city that is famous for its glitz and glamour. One of the best ways to take in all that the city has to offer is to go on a city sightseeing tour. Dubai has some of the most iconic landmarks that are worth exploring. You can choose to go on a bus tour or a walking tour, depending on your preferences.
The bus tour takes you around the city, allowing you to take in the city’s beautiful architecture, breathtaking skyline, and the famous Dubai Mall. One of the most popular bus tours is the Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour. This tour lets you stop at some of the famous landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai Creek, and more. You can take as long as you like at each stop and then continue with the tour.
If you prefer walking tours, you can choose to explore the city’s traditional markets, which include the famous Gold and Spice Souks. Here you can indulge in some shopping or enjoy the local delicacies. Dubai’s cultural tour will take you back in time to see the ancient culture and history of the city.
In summary, city sightseeing is a must-do activity in Dubai, as it offers you a glimpse of the city’s past, present, and future. The city’s beauty and landmarks are awe-inspiring and something you do not want to miss out on. So hop on a bus or go for a walk, and immerse yourself in Dubai’s history and culture.
Visiting the Burj Khalifa
When it comes to visiting Dubai, there’s no way you can miss out on visiting the iconic Burj Khalifa, which stands tall at 828 meters and is the tallest building in the world. You can either choose to admire its towering beauty from the outside or go inside or explore its observation deck on the 124th floor, which offers breathtaking views of the city.
One of the best ways to visit the Burj Khalifa is to book your tickets in advance to avoid long waiting lines. Once you’re there, make sure to take the elevator ride, which takes you to the top in just a few seconds. The observation deck offers a panoramic view of Dubai, and on a clear day, you can see up to 80 kilometers away.
Apart from the observation deck, there are many other things you can do while visiting the Burj Khalifa, such as dining at the world-renowned Atmosphere Restaurant or enjoying the world-class fountain show at the base of the tower.
Visiting the Burj Khalifa is truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience that you’ll never forget. It’s the perfect way to experience the grandeur and beauty of Dubai from above. So, make sure to add this to your list of things to do in Dubai!
Explore Traditional Dubai
Dubai is not all about modern buildings and luxurious amenities. There are still many traditional aspects of the city that are worth exploring. The city’s rich history and culture can be best experienced by visiting the old neighborhoods, souks, and historic landmarks.
The Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort is the perfect place to start your exploration. The museum gives an insight into the city’s transformation from a humble fishing village to the global hub that it is today. The fort itself is an architectural marvel that dates back to 1787.
Another interesting place to visit is the Al Bastakiya quarter. This historic neighborhood has narrow streets and traditional wind-tower houses that have been restored to their original condition. The area is also home to many art galleries and cafes that offer a glimpse of modern Dubai.
The souks or traditional markets of Dubai are another must-visit. The Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Textile Souk are some of the most popular ones. These souks offer a range of goods that reflect the city’s rich cultural heritage. The Gold Souk, in particular, is a paradise for those who love gold jewelry.
Visiting the Jumeirah Mosque is also an essential part of exploring traditional Dubai. The mosque is one of the most beautiful structures in the city and is open to non-Muslim visitors for guided tours. The mosque’s architecture is a mix of Islamic and medieval European styles.
Finally, take a walk along Dubai Creek, which was the lifeline of the city for centuries. The creek divides the city into two parts – Deira and Bur Dubai. The area around the creek is dotted with traditional markets, mosques, and other historic landmarks.
An Evening Desert Safari in Dubai
Dubai is known for its majestic deserts, and one of the best ways to experience the vast expanses of golden sand is through an evening desert safari. The desert safari is a must-try adventure when you visit Dubai.
The safari begins with a thrilling 4×4 ride over the desert dunes. The ride may be bumpy, but it’s a lot of fun and will leave you with an adrenaline rush. As you travel deeper into the desert, you will get to witness the beautiful sunset views and take in the peaceful atmosphere.
Once you reach the desert camp, you will be greeted with Arabic coffee, dates, and a warm welcome from the locals. You can sit back and relax in traditional Bedouin-style tents as you watch the stars twinkle in the night sky. Enjoy a delicious dinner of local cuisine, along with live entertainment such as belly dancing, henna painting, and camel riding.
One of the highlights of the evening desert safari is the opportunity to go dune bashing in a 4×4 vehicle. Experienced drivers will take you on a roller-coaster ride over the sand dunes, giving you a thrilling and memorable experience. If you are feeling adventurous, you can also try sandboarding or quad biking.
As the night progresses, the temperature drops and the stars come out, making it the perfect setting for stargazing. Take a moment to appreciate the beauty of the vast desert under the stars.
An evening desert safari is a perfect way to spend time with family and friends or for a romantic date night. It’s a truly unforgettable experience and one you will cherish for a lifetime.
Desert Dune Buggy Ride
If you’re looking for an adventure, then a desert dune buggy ride is perfect for you. You’ll get the opportunity to drive a dune buggy through the stunning sand dunes of the Arabian desert. The ride will take you through the desert with experienced drivers who will guide you through the bumpy terrain and let you explore the stunning beauty of the desert. The tour will last around two hours and will be filled with adrenaline as you zip through the sand dunes. This is an excellent activity for groups, families or even solo travelers who want to experience the thrill of off-roading. Just make sure you bring your camera along to capture some breathtaking views. Don’t forget to dress appropriately for the ride, and wear closed-toe shoes. You’ll definitely feel like an adventure seeker with this fun activity!
Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, the Palm
If you are looking for a day of fun in the sun, look no further than the Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm. This world-renowned water park is one of the biggest and best in Dubai, boasting a wide range of thrilling rides and attractions that will keep the whole family entertained.
With a vast array of rides and slides, the Aquaventure Waterpark offers something for everyone, from the adrenaline junkies who crave heart-stopping drops and fast speeds to the more relaxed sun-seekers who want to lounge in the pool and soak up the sunshine.
One of the highlights of the park is the Leap of Faith, a towering slide that sends riders plummeting through a shark-filled tunnel before splashing down in a pool below. Other popular rides include the Anaconda, a giant water slide that sends riders whirling through the dark and twisting tubes, and Poseidon’s Revenge, a slide that sends you plummeting through a trapdoor into a heart-racing, high-speed journey through twists and turns.
If you’re looking for something a little more relaxed, the park also features a lazy river, a wave pool, and a kids’ play area, perfect for families with young children.
Beyond the rides, the park is also home to a host of restaurants, shops, and attractions, including an aquarium where you can get up close and personal with a variety of marine life.
So, if you are visiting Dubai, don’t miss the opportunity to visit the Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm, for a day of water-based fun and adventure.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium
The Lost Chambers Aquarium is located in the Atlantis, The Palm resort and is a fascinating attraction for visitors of all ages. This aquarium features a wide variety of marine life and is designed around the theme of the lost city of Atlantis.
Visitors can walk through the tunnels and corridors, observing a range of sea creatures such as rays, sharks, and exotic fish. You can also witness the feeding of the fish and even have a chance to interact with some of the marine animals. It’s a great opportunity for families and children to learn about sea life and ocean conservation.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium also offers unique experiences such as “Behind The Scenes Tours” where you can see how the aquarium is maintained and even feed the fish yourself. You can also try out “Aquatrek,” where you wear a special helmet and walk underwater to get a close-up view of the fish.
The Atlantis resort itself is a stunning attraction with a host of amenities such as restaurants, spa treatments, and shopping options. Visitors can even opt to stay at the resort and have a luxurious experience. The resort is known for its opulent rooms, impeccable service, and top-notch dining experiences.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium is a perfect combination of education and entertainment, and definitely worth a visit during your trip to Dubai. Don’t forget to capture those Instagram-worthy moments as you explore the lost city of Atlantis!
Wild Wadi Water Park experience
If you’re looking for an adrenaline rush, look no further than the Wild Wadi Water Park experience. Located right in the heart of Dubai, this park is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the city. It’s not just about the rides, but also about the unique atmosphere that this park creates. The park has more than 30 thrilling rides and attractions, suitable for all ages. The famous Jumeirah Sceirah is the main attraction of the park, which is a free fall waterslide with a speed of up to 80 km/h. Other popular rides include Tantrum Alley, Burj Surj, Wipeout, Riptide Flow Rider, and many more.
For those who are looking for something less intense, the Juha’s Journey is a relaxing ride that takes you around the park on an inner tube. There’s also a lazy river called the Flood River Flyer, where you can drift away on a rubber ring and enjoy the scenic view. If you’re visiting with young children, there’s an area called Juha’s Dhow and Lagoon, which has mini slides, water guns, and a large dumping bucket. The area is designed for children aged 2 to 12 years, with safety being the top priority.
The park also offers private cabanas, where you can relax and enjoy the view with your friends and family. The cabanas come with a personal fridge, sun loungers, towels, and a private shower. You can also order food and beverages, so you don’t have to worry about getting out of the park to grab a bite. Overall, the Wild Wadi Water Park experience is a must-visit for anyone who wants to cool off and have some fun in the sun. With so many attractions and rides to choose from, there’s something for everyone at this exciting water park.
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is one of the top attractions in Dubai and offers a unique and fascinating experience for visitors of all ages. The aquarium is located inside the Dubai Mall, which is one of the largest malls in the world. The Dubai Aquarium is home to over 140 species of sea life, including over 400 sharks and rays. The aquarium has a capacity of 10 million liters of water and houses the largest collection of Sand Tiger sharks in the world.
Visitors can experience the aquarium in various ways. One of the most popular ways is by taking a walk through the underwater tunnel, which gives visitors a chance to see the marine life up close and personal. The tunnel is 48 meters long and provides a 270-degree view of the tank. Another option is to take a glass-bottom boat ride, which offers a unique and thrilling view of the sharks and rays swimming below.
The Underwater Zoo is a new addition to the aquarium, and it offers a chance to experience the wonders of the ocean in a new way. Visitors can explore three different zones, which include Rainforest, Rocky Shore, and Living Ocean. The Rainforest zone has a variety of creatures such as spiders, snakes, and crocodiles. The Rocky Shore zone is home to a wide variety of creatures that inhabit tide pools. The Living Ocean zone is home to a diverse range of marine life, including seahorses, jellyfish, and other sea creatures.
For visitors who are looking for a unique experience, there are also several options available. For example, visitors can sign up for the “Shark Encounter,” which allows them to dive into the aquarium and come face-to-face with the sharks. Another option is to sign up for the “Cage Snorkeling” experience, which offers a chance to snorkel with the sharks and rays.
Overall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is a must-visit attraction in Dubai. It provides visitors with a unique and exciting opportunity to experience the beauty and wonder of the ocean and its inhabitants. Whether you choose to walk through the underwater tunnel, take a glass-bottom boat ride, or participate in one of the unique experiences, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is sure to leave a lasting impression.
Hot Air Balloon Ride over Dubai
Dubai is a beautiful city and one of the best ways to appreciate its beauty is by taking a hot air balloon ride over the city. This thrilling activity allows you to see Dubai from a different perspective and admire the skyline in a way that’s different from any other. Imagine soaring over the Arabian Desert with a panoramic view of Dubai’s modern architecture, the majestic sand dunes and vast plains as the sun rises slowly in the horizon. This is what a hot air balloon ride in Dubai promises you.
The hot air balloon ride typically lasts about an hour and it starts early in the morning, usually at sunrise, to make sure you can enjoy the picturesque landscape of Dubai before the sun gets too high. This activity is ideal for thrill-seekers and those who love breathtaking aerial views. Hot air ballooning over Dubai is a perfect opportunity to capture stunning photos that are great for your Instagram and other social media platforms. It’s also perfect for nature lovers who want to experience Dubai’s diverse ecosystem from a new perspective.
Several companies offer hot air balloon rides in Dubai, and most of them include a post-ride breakfast, so you can sit back, relax and enjoy the beautiful sunrise and scenery. The ride may seem expensive but it’s an unforgettable experience and definitely worth every penny. It’s best to book in advance and dress in comfortable, casual clothing as the balloon rides tend to be chilly in the morning. If you’re looking for something unique and unforgettable to do in Dubai, consider taking a hot air balloon ride. You’ll leave with beautiful memories and photos to last a lifetime.
Dubai Parks and Resorts
Dubai Parks and Resorts is a must-visit destination for thrill-seekers and families alike. This massive entertainment complex spans over 25 million square feet and features four theme parks: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, Legoland Dubai, and Legoland Water Park. Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of movies, experience the magic of Bollywood, or let your creativity soar at the Lego-themed attractions. From exhilarating rides to live performances, Dubai Parks and Resorts promises an unforgettable adventure.
Img Worlds of Adventure
Step into the world’s largest indoor theme park, IMG Worlds of Adventure, and prepare for an adrenaline-pumping experience. Spread across 1.5 million square feet, this colossal amusement park is divided into five zones, each offering a unique theme. Encounter your favorite Marvel superheroes, venture into the prehistoric era at the Lost Valley, explore Cartoon Network’s animated universe, and get spooked at the Haunted Hotel. With thrilling rides, immersive attractions, and beloved characters, IMG Worlds of Adventure ensures an action-packed day for visitors of all ages.
Ski Dubai
Escape the desert heat and embrace a winter wonderland at Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort located in the Mall of the Emirates. Strap on your skis or snowboard and hit the slopes of the 22,500-square-meter snow park, complete with five runs of varying difficulty levels. Experience the thrill of tobogganing, encounter penguins at the interactive Snow Park, or sip hot chocolate while marveling at the snowy surroundings. Ski Dubai is a remarkable testament to Dubai’s ability to create magical experiences in unexpected places.
Dubai Opera
For a dose of culture and entertainment, head to the magnificent Dubai Opera. This architectural masterpiece hosts a wide array of performances, including opera, ballet, theater, concerts, and more. The state-of-the-art venue boasts a stunning design inspired by traditional Arabian dhows, offering a world-class acoustics and an intimate atmosphere. Whether you’re a fan of classical music or contemporary performances, attending a show at Dubai Opera is a truly enchanting experience.
Dubai Autodrome
Rev up your excitement at the Dubai Autodrome, a premier motorsport facility that caters to racing enthusiasts and thrill-seekers. Take a thrilling ride in a high-performance supercar, go-kart around the challenging circuit, or fulfill your racing dreams with a professional driving experience. With a range of adrenaline-fueled activities, including karting, racing academies, and track days, Dubai Autodrome is a haven for speed enthusiasts and those looking for an unforgettable adventure.
Jet Ski at La Mer
Get your heart racing and make a splash at La Mer, one of Dubai’s vibrant beachfront destinations. Embark on a thrilling jet ski ride along the pristine waters of the Arabian Gulf and soak in breathtaking views of Dubai’s iconic skyline. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced rider, jet skiing at La Mer offers an exhilarating experience amidst stunning coastal scenery. After your adventure, unwind at one of the trendy beachfront cafes or indulge in some retail therapy at the adjacent shopping outlets.
Shopping Malls
Dubai is renowned for its extravagant shopping malls, where retail therapy becomes an unforgettable experience. From the world’s largest mall, The Dubai Mall, to the luxurious Mall of the Emirates and the opulent City Walk, Dubai’s shopping destinations are not just about shopping but also about entertainment and leisure. Explore a vast array of high-end fashion brands, discover global cuisines at gourmet restaurants, catch the latest blockbuster at state-of-the-art cinemas, or visit indoor attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Dubai’s shopping malls are an essential part of the city’s culture and a treat for visitors of all interests.
Conclusion:
Dubai is a city that never fails to impress with its endless array of exciting attractions and experiences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, entertainment, or retail therapy, Dubai has it all. From the exhilarating rides at Dubai Parks and Resorts and IMG Worlds of Adventure to the snowy slopes of Ski Dubai and the cultural performances at Dubai Opera, the city offers an extraordinary blend of modernity and tradition. So, plan your trip, pack your bags, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure in the dazzling city of Dubai.