Dubai, the mere mention of the name conjures images of high-end hotels, world-class restaurants, and frankly bizarre attractions in the middle of the desert. Dubai is a city that refuses to rest on its laurels; this Emirati powerhouse is constantly moving forward (and skyward), always unveiling something new to see.
Additionally, Dubai offers a plethora of outdoor activities, sports, and, surprisingly, opportunities to connect with nature. A crossroads between East and West, it embodies the Arab dream and enjoys an ever-growing reputation on the global tourism stage. So, what should you do in Dubai? Where should you begin in this insatiable city?
Here is our guide to the best things to do and visit in Dubai, aimed at illuminating your first experience in this remarkable city.
Burj Khalifa
We need no introduction to it. As a symbol of observation platforms, Burj Khalifa hosts “At The Top” on its 124th floor: a spectacular viewpoint that is highly popular with visitors (consider a skip-the-line ticket to avoid long queues). A true engineering marvel, this tower—which seems to pierce the sky—has been voted the tallest building in the world (for now) at 828 meters (more than 2.5 times the height of the Eiffel Tower). Completed in just six years, it symbolizes Dubai’s ambition to reach new heights!
Deira: The Old Town
Let’s start with an authentic and traditional experience often overshadowed by modernity: welcome to Deira, the old town of Dubai.
Here, forget the skyscrapers and traces of modernity; Deira offers a wealth of scents and flavors! From spice stands to local specialties, indulge in the country’s gastronomy while enjoying the bargains in the souks and the vibrant hustle and bustle. The Dubai Museum will provide a cultural interlude on the history of this small fishing village that has evolved into the prominent city it is today in the United Arab Emirates.
Gold Market
Visiting Dubai without experiencing its riches would be unthinkable. Beyond the grand hotels, shops, and attractions, the city is home to the largest gold market… in the world!
Still in Deira, take advantage of your stroll to discover this unique and authentic place where enthusiasts, curious observers, locals, and tourists haggle over opulent merchandise ranging between 18 and 22 carats. This merchandise is meticulously verified by the government before it is offered for sale, ensuring authenticity for buyers.
While gold takes center stage, precious stones, silver, and diamonds also adorn the market stalls, enhancing its allure.
A Desert Safari
Adventurers, look no further for things to do in Dubai during your stay! As a gateway to the desert, the city offers various activities to experience the majestic dunes.
Enjoy a safari by car or camel to explore the stunning desert landscapes, dine in the wilderness, sleep under the stars, or meet the Bedouins. Engage in a barbecue on the sand or try your hand at sandboarding or desert surfing.
Take this opportunity to revel in the absolute silence of the desert as you watch the sunset—a guaranteed change of scenery!
A ski session
Yes, you read that correctly: it is possible to ski in Dubai amid the desert. To do so, head to Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort housed within a 4,000 m² dome located inside the vast Mall of the Emirates shopping center.
Ski Dubai features five slopes of varying inclination, a ski school, ski lifts, and rental facilities! Why not take your first-ever ski lesson if you’re a beginner (admit it, it would be quite unusual)? For tobogganing or snowboarding enthusiasts, you can enjoy the experience as if you were in a traditional winter wonderland. After your session, warm up with a hot chocolate at the resort’s café.
Dubai Mall
If its ski resort alone is impressive, Dubai Mall has even more to offer its visitors. This flagship symbol of the city is the largest shopping center in the world.
And rightfully so, it houses no less than ten shopping complexes within its 1 million m², featuring 1,200 stores! In addition to its luxurious shops, you’ll find the largest aquarium in the world, a 22-screen cinema, The Address Dubai Mall hotel, and an Olympic-sized ice rink.
There is no doubt that if you step through the doors of this uniquely spectacular venue, you will not have a moment of boredom. The question remains: where do you start?
The Beach and the Burj Al Arab
Enjoy lounging at the beach next to the Burj Al Arab, one of the world’s most luxurious hotels shaped like a billowing sail.
This location is perfect for that iconic photo of you standing in the sand with the skyscraper as your backdrop. Standing at 321 meters, the Burj Al Arab has become one of Dubai’s most emblematic symbols.
A Boat Trip
Since we’re at the water’s edge, let’s stay here. In one of the world’s leading cities of excess, a boat ride seems fitting. Take the opportunity to sail on the Persian Gulf!
But how do you do it? Generation Voyage recommends two options:
An abra cruise
Here’s one of Dubai’s less ‘superfluous’ experiences: an abra (water taxi) ride on Dubai Creek. Your traditional boat will take you to the old town, divided into Bur Dubai and Deira, where you’ll discover a totally different atmosphere from modern Dubai, highlighted by various iconic sites and monuments like the Women’s Museum. The trip will continue past the palace of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the Dubai World Trade Centre, Jumeirah Mosque, and the Museum of Islamic Arts. This enriching experience will allow you to discover the city’s history through time.
Renting a Boat
The other possibility is more independent. Indeed, by renting a boat in Dubai between individuals, you will be masters of your program. No schedules, no constraints!
In addition, the opportunity would be perfect to discover Abu Dhabi , the other megalopolis of the United Arab Emirates.
Jumeirah Mosque
Flickr – Laurent Gass PHOTOGRAPHY
Non-Muslims are rarely permitted to enter mosques, but at Jumeirah Mosque, the “Open Doors, Open Minds” initiative allows for public visits.
Joining a guided tour is ideal because you’ll get to see the vast interior of this architectural marvel in the Fatimid style, and you can ask the guide questions about local culture or Islam itself.
The Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain is actually a collection of fountains located in the Burj Khalifa lake. They are the largest dancing fountains in the world, measuring 275 meters in length and projecting water up to 275 meters high (previously 150 meters).
Shows occur every day in the early afternoon and every 30 minutes from 6 p.m. to 10 p.m., with boat rides available on the lake for a close-up view of the enchanting fountain displays
City Parks
Dubai boasts numerous green parks where visitors can walk and unwind. For jogging or leisurely strolls, parks such as Dubai Creek Park, Zabeel Park, Safa Park, and Al Mamzar Beach Park are excellent choices. These lively places are perfect for picnicking and socializing with people from all over the world.
It’s also pleasant to stroll along the Jumeirah Beach Residence (an area where you can also book accommodations) and the Dubai Marina, which offers numerous cafes and restaurants to relax in.
Dubai Marina
Want to experience Dubai at its best? Loved by both locals and visitors, Dubai Marina showcases the city’s modern side. Known as “New Dubai,” this area has many buildings that house hotels, shopping centers, and supermarkets.
Dynamic and lively, Dubai Marina is an unmissable meeting spot where people enjoy walking, dining, partying, or simply observing its dazzling lights after dark. Thrill-seekers can book a jet ski session, while others can unwind aboard a yacht for a luxurious cruise.
If you enjoy urban panoramas, head up to the 52nd floor of the Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel: in addition to its exquisite suites ideal for an unforgettable stay, it houses the “The Observatory,” a bar-restaurant that promises breathtaking views of Dubai Marina!
Sheikh Mohammed Center
Wikimedia Commons – Amin Alwan
The Sheikh Mohammed Cultural Center aims to foster awareness and understanding among the different cultures present in Dubai. Created alongside the Jumeirah Mosque’s “Open Doors, Open Minds” initiative, this intercultural center strives to break down barriers between individuals from diverse backgrounds by educating them about the culture, customs, and religion of the United Arab Emirates.
Visitors typically participate in a cultural lunch to discover local traditional cuisine—a privileged moment that encourages exchanges and intercultural communication.
Amusement Parks
Facebook – Aquaventure Waterpark
To delight both young and old, Dubai offers an abundance of amusement parks and thrilling activities:
- Wild Wadi Water Park or Aquaventure: These massive water parks feature rivers, waves, and rapids designed for adrenaline and fun. Dolphin enthusiasts can even enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience swimming with these magnificent mammals.
- Children’s City: This theme park is perfect for children aged 2 to 15. Educational and entertaining, it boasts learning spaces like a planetarium, a nature center, and an area dedicated to discovering the human body.
- Motiongate Dubai: Cinema enthusiasts, rejoice! Set 25 minutes from Dubai Marina, Motiongate Dubai immerses you in a cinematic adventure with three film studios (Columbia Pictures, DreamWorks Animation, and Lionsgate) featuring 27 rides and 15 multimedia experiences! Extend your experience with a show at the Hollywood Theatre.
- Legoland: For LEGO aficionados, Legoland offers a whimsical journey into your dream world, featuring 15,000 constructions made from over 60 million LEGO bricks. Expect a variety of attractions, six distinct themed areas, and a visit to the official LEGO factory. A fun fact: you can even obtain your LEGOLAND driver’s license at the park’s driving school!
- Green Planet: Interested in a world tour of tropical flora and fauna? Visit Green Planet, an educational facility housing a unique ecosystem where 3,000 species of animals coexist in harmony. Home to birds, bats, snakes, and monkeys, Green Planet invites visitors of all ages to discover Earth’s wonders while instilling a sense of preservation.
Dubai Flyovers
Seeing Dubai from the sky is an incredible way to appreciate the city. The options are plentiful, and the views are guaranteed to be spectacular.
- By Helicopter: Among the most famous aerial tours, a helicopter ride offers a unique private experience, providing the opportunity to view the city from above in complete luxury.
- By Hot Air Balloon: Everything is possible in Dubai, including a hot air balloon ride! Experience an extraordinary safari from the sky while enjoying breathtaking views of the Dubai desert. Upon landing, a gourmet breakfast awaits before embarking on a Land Rover adventure through the Dubai Nature Reserve.
- By Seaplane: Another unique option is to take to the skies in a seaplane. From the waters of Dubai, enjoy a window seat for stunning views of the city’s most beautiful sights, making for a truly unforgettable experience.
Al Quoz
Despite its discretion, often overshadowed by extravagance, Dubai’s artistic heritage is worth exploring. To discover it, visit Al Quoz, the cultural and artistic district that appeals to design aficionados and contemporary enthusiasts alike.
This vibrant area features art galleries showcasing the work of budding artists and established talents. In addition to exhibitions, Al Quoz hosts cultural events, concept stores, bars, and various organic and vegan restaurants—providing a chance to explore Dubai from a different perspective!
Abu Dhabi
f you’re looking to venture beyond Dubai’s classics, consider a trip to Abu Dhabi. Known for its own wealth of attractions, the capital of the United Arab Emirates presents numerous treasures and must-see sights. During an excursion from Dubai, discover this queen city of oil that captivates every traveler.
Beyond its economic prestige, Abu Dhabi is home to the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, featuring 1,000 columns and 80 domes. This monumental structure integrates the essence of Abu Dhabi, enriching its tourism landscape since its completion in 2007. It’s often compared in size to Mecca. Excursions from Dubai often feature visits to this breathtaking mosque, so don’t forget to dress modestly.
Abu Dhabi also boasts the Emirates Palace, the world’s most expensive hotel, which is open for visits. The emirate offers beautiful strolls along its famous Corniche and a cultural experience at the Heritage Village, an open-air museum narrating the story of the locals before the discovery of oil. Don’t miss the excitement at Ferrari World, home to the renowned red car’s universe!
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