What to See and Do in Dubai

​What to see and do in Dubai, UAE

Dubai attracts visitors year-round for a variety of compelling aspects – its unequaled architecture, modest past, exciting shopping attractions, and super enticing leisure and dining choices to mention a few.  So no matter if this is your debut Dubai trip or revisiting, you’ll never run out of things to do here. But, if you’re confused on what to do in Dubai, here we’ve rounded up a list of top 10  Dubai sites, attractions and experiences from every category. 

The Dubai Mall

Whether you’re in Dubai for the first or 100th time, we’re sure that you won’t get enough of this gigantic mall. It’s one of the world’s biggest malls with over a thousand retail outlets and this is apart from its 200 dining options plus a vast array of recreational options.

In fact, it’s worth dedicating an entire day for your Dubai Mall trip; this not only allows you to shop and dine on the go at your heart’s content,  but also check out its many jaw-dropping attractions such as Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo,  VR Park Dubai, Dubai Ice Rink, KidZania Dubai, Hysteria Dubai Mall etc. 

Before leaving the Dubai Mall, make sure that you watch the iconic Dubai Fountain show just outside of it. It’s a marvelous representation of choreographed water display in immaculate harmonization of music and light. 

​Go on a Desert Safari

When the whole setting becomes too dazzling and noisy for you, a desert safari in Dubai allows you to unwind away from all chaos of the city. It retreats you to the region’s unspoiled desert landscape and further promises you a refreshing jaunt with exotic thrill and entertainment.

Choose from a morning, evening or overnight desert safari; each of them is unique and encompasses the adventurous ever dune bash in a 4X4 vehicle, camel ride, quad biking, sandboarding etc. Add to this cultural experiences such as henna tattooing, falconry, Shisha smoking, belly dance, and Tanura show. Dining is included in evening and overnight desert safaris. 

Wander the ​Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

This is one authentic place in Dubai which lets you experience the region’s humble yet inspiring historical roots.

This immaculately preserved neighborhood is locally known as Al Bastakiya Quarter and is hidden away in the city’s old part, at Bur Dubai.

A stroll through its quaint, narrow alleys (dotted with ancient sand-coloured structures and topped by wooden wind towers) will take you back to the region’s yesteryears. But what make this truly special are its many amazing insightful museums, distinct art cafes, and exciting cultural landmarks like Sheik Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) and the oldest of its Al Fahidi Fort which now houses Dubai Museum. 

Have Fun on Bluewaters Island

Nestled off Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Bluewaters Island (developed by Meraas) is the city’s newest waterfront neighborhood with endless possibilities for adventure, fun, and recreation. 

You’ll get to see here the world’s biggest observation wheel – Ain Dubai, check out the Middle East’s first and only Madame Tussauds Museum, enjoy the best in world-class entertainment at Rotunda Dubai, and of course, sit back at the highly popular Cove Beach. There is also the world’s only Caesars Palace property outside of Las Vegas.

Top the Burj Khalifa

Adjoining the Dubai Mall, this 828- meter architectural masterpiece is the world’s tallest building. A visit to ‘At the Top’ observation deck on 124th or 148th level is a surefire way to enthrall yourself with the most unequaled views over Dubai’s marvelous city skyline, desert, ocean and more.

Get your Burj Khalifa tickets in advance to avoid any hassle; it also comes with a fascinating multimedia display on Dubai’s past and best of all, the fastest of its kind elevator ride in the region.

You can enrich your Burj Khalifa Dubai trip by adding a dining session at the Café (on ground level) or within one of the restaurants at Armani Hotel Dubai (inside Burj Khalifa).

Enjoy a Dhow Cruise

You can’t go to Dubai without enjoying a relaxed cruise aboard a traditional Arabian dhow whose role was once inevitable to boost the region’s economy.

It was mainly used for pearl farming and fishing in the pre-oil phase. For this, all you’ve to do is to head to Dubai Marina or Dubai Creek. Once the dhow sets sails across Dubai’s water, this gently glides you by the region’s nighttime skyline views.

Subject to your chosen cruise package, the approximately two hours sail includes buffet dining, unlimited refreshments, and live entertainment in the form of Tanura show.  

Go Skiing in the Dubai Snow

Dubai knows how to make impossible effortlessly possible. And the coolest instance for this is Ski Dubai inside Mall of the Emirates. It’s the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East. With tonnes of snow at any given time, this gives you the rare chance to enjoy your favourite winter activity right in the center of the desert city.

So come prepared to try skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and even catch up with real and adorable penguins. The best thing is that you can visit here during any part of the year. This is a genuine must-experience, particularly if it’s your first time trip to Dubai. 

Visit Dubai Parks and Resorts

Take any recent list of things to see in Dubai – you’ll find this on top. Dubai Parks and Resorts is the first of its kind concept in the region, with accommodation, retail, dining, and most of all, four theme parks under its roof.

In fact, a visit here is a must for staunch theme park lovers.  From Hollywood-inspired rides and Bollywood style colorful shows and attractions to LEGO-themed experiences, you’ll find it all here, thanks to its Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, LEGOLAND Dubai, and LEGOLAND Water Park. 

Explore the Traditional Souks

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise with over 70 malls. While each of these malls has its own distinctive personality and charm, the city is equally famed for its souks or traditional bazaars.

That’s not all; a visit to souks will have you sorted, especially if you’re on the lookout of bonafide Dubai keepsakes at exceptionally low rates. They are mostly peppered across Bur Dubai and Deira regions and the most popular of all is undoubtedly the Gold Souk.

With hundreds of thousands of shops selling jewelry made out of gold and other precious metals, it’s a real treat to see an entire souk doused in unmatched glow and glimmer. 

Dubai’s one and only – Palm Jumeirah

Interlaced with the most stylish sights all around, the majestic appeal and distinct style of this iconic man-made island would never be jaded. A monorail ride is the most affordable yet relaxed way to appreciate the posh area.

But if you wish to check it out with a twist, take to the skies on an exciting helicopter ride or the exhilarating ever sky diving session. This airborne adventure is sure to leave you in awe, as it gives you the once-in-the-lifetime chance to take in the island as well as its unequaled palm-tree structure in its real splendor. 

Conclusion – What to See and Do in Dubai

With its jaw-dropping sights, incredible diversity, and eclectic ambience, Dubai is no ordinary Arabian destination. And we anticipate that this exclusive guide has given you some amazing ideas and inspiration to put together your desired travel program and find your perfect Dubai bliss. 

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