THE 10 BEST Things to Do in Dubai (2024) - Tripadvisor
If you're planning to visit Dubai, Tripadvisor is an excellent resource to help you discover the best things to do in the city, from iconic landmarks to unique experiences. Here are some of the most popular and top-rated activities and attractions in Dubai according to Tripadvisor:
1. Burj Khalifa: At The Top Observation Deck
- Location: Downtown Dubai
- Overview: Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, offers unparalleled views of Dubai from its observation decks on the 124th, 125th, and the highest deck on the 148th floor. It’s a must-see for anyone visiting Dubai, offering breathtaking vistas of the city skyline, desert, and ocean.
- Why Visit: For one of the world’s most iconic landmarks and the best views of the city from above.
- Tip: Book skip-the-line tickets in advance, especially during peak hours or sunset times to avoid long waits.
2. Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner
- Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
- Overview: A desert safari is an unforgettable adventure. You’ll experience thrilling dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, and a BBQ dinner at a desert camp, complete with traditional Arabic entertainment like belly dancing and Tanoura performances.
- Why Do It: For an authentic Dubai experience and a fun mix of adventure, culture, and cuisine in the desert.
- Tip: Choose a private desert safari for a more exclusive experience or opt for a sunset safari for picturesque views.
3. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
- Location: The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
- Overview: Located inside Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo houses thousands of marine species, including sharks, rays, and penguins. The giant aquarium tank is one of the largest suspended tanks in the world, offering unique viewing experiences.
- Why Visit: For a family-friendly activity that allows you to get up close with marine life and enjoy special experiences like shark diving or a glass-bottom boat ride.
- Tip: Book the VIP experience for access to the underwater tunnel, and explore the Underwater Zoo for a more immersive experience.
4. Dubai Fountain Show
- Location: Downtown Dubai (in front of the Burj Khalifa)
- Overview: The Dubai Fountain is one of the world’s largest choreographed fountain systems, performing daily to a variety of music, ranging from classical to contemporary hits. The fountain is set on Burj Khalifa Lake and performs every 30 minutes in the evening.
- Why Visit: It’s a free, mesmerizing spectacle that offers a magical view when paired with the lights of Burj Khalifa.
- Tip: You can take a boat ride on the lake for a more up-close view of the fountain.
5. The Dubai Frame
- Location: Zabeel Park
- Overview: The Dubai Frame is a massive architectural landmark that offers fantastic views of both old Dubai (with its historic buildings) and new Dubai (with towering skyscrapers). Visitors can enjoy the views from the glass-floored observation deck and learn about the city's history and future in the museum.
- Why Visit: For a blend of modern architecture, panoramic views, and history.
- Tip: Don’t miss the Sky Deck, where you can walk on a glass floor and feel like you're floating above the city.
6. Dubai Miracle Garden
- Location: Al Barsha South
- Overview: Open only in the cooler months, Dubai Miracle Garden is a stunning flower garden, home to over 50 million flowers arranged in elaborate designs and sculptures. It is the world’s largest natural flower garden and is a colorful, vibrant place for a relaxing stroll.
- Why Visit: For its jaw-dropping beauty, unique floral designs, and the chance to snap some Instagram-worthy photos.
- Tip: Plan your visit between November and April to catch the garden in full bloom.
7. Ski Dubai
- Location: Mall of the Emirates
- Overview: If you’re visiting Dubai and want a taste of winter, head to Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort located in the Mall of the Emirates. The resort offers skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and even penguin encounters in a massive snow park.
- Why Do It: It’s a cool, unique experience to escape the desert heat and enjoy winter sports in the middle of the desert.
- Tip: Make sure to wear warm clothing or rent thermal wear, as temperatures inside the snow park can drop as low as -4°C (25°F).
8. Dubai Marina Cruise
- Location: Dubai Marina
- Overview: Take a traditional dhow cruise or a modern yacht around Dubai Marina and enjoy views of the sparkling skyline, luxury yachts, and the iconic Palm Jumeirah. Many cruises offer dinner, entertainment, and music for a more romantic or festive experience.
- Why Do It: For a relaxing evening with beautiful views of the city and luxury yachts on the water.
- Tip: Book a sunset cruise for the most picturesque views of Dubai’s skyline as the sun sets.
9. Dubai Parks and Resorts
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, near the Palm Jebel Ali
- Overview: Dubai Parks and Resorts is home to several theme parks, including Motiongate Dubai, Legoland Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Water Park. It’s the largest integrated theme park destination in the region and offers something for every age group.
- Why Visit: For a full day of fun with family-friendly attractions and themed experiences.
- Tip: Consider a multi-park ticket for access to all parks, or choose a VIP ticket for priority access to rides.
10. Dubai Marina Walk
- Location: Dubai Marina
- Overview: The Dubai Marina Walk is a scenic pedestrian promenade lined with cafes, restaurants, and shops. It stretches along the water, offering views of the marina, luxury yachts, and nearby skyscrapers.
- Why Do It: It’s perfect for a leisurely walk, people-watching, or a relaxing evening with dinner by the water.
- Tip: Visit in the evening to enjoy cooler temperatures and vibrant nightlife along the promenade.
11. Dubai Opera
- Location: Downtown Dubai
- Overview: Dubai Opera is an architectural masterpiece and a cultural hub that hosts world-class performances, including opera, ballet, classical music concerts, and Broadway shows.
- Why Visit: For an evening of culture and world-class entertainment in one of the most sophisticated venues in the city.
- Tip: Check the schedule in advance to book tickets for your favorite performances or shows.
12. Dubai Mall
- Location: Downtown Dubai
- Overview: While not technically an activity, Dubai Mall is a world-famous shopping destination and entertainment complex. It includes an aquarium, an ice rink, a VR park, indoor theme park, and countless dining and retail options.
- Why Visit: It’s perfect for a day of shopping, dining, and family fun with something for everyone, from ice skating to virtual reality experiences.
- Tip: Don't miss the Dubai Aquarium and Dubai Ice Rink while you're there.
13. Dubai Creek Dhow Cruise
- Location: Dubai Creek
- Overview: A traditional dhow cruise along Dubai Creek is a peaceful and scenic way to experience old Dubai. The evening cruises often include a dinner buffet, live entertainment, and stunning views of the city’s historical landmarks.
- Why Do It: To see a different side of Dubai with views of the Dubai Creek, Deira, and Bur Dubai, and to experience the city’s traditional heritage.
- Tip: Try to catch a sunset cruise for a peaceful and picturesque view of the creek.
14. The Palm Jumeirah
- Location: Palm Jumeirah
- Overview: Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island shaped like a palm tree and is home to some of Dubai’s most luxurious resorts, including Atlantis The Palm. Visitors can explore the island, enjoy the beach, or take a monorail ride for panoramic views.
- Why Visit: For its distinctive shape, luxury resorts, and incredible views of the coastline.
- Tip: Visit Atlantis The Palm for access to the Aquaventure Waterpark and Lost Chambers Aquarium.
