Last upgraded: June 16, 2025
Planning a journey to Dubai and questioning what’s actually worth your time (and cash)?
Dubai Marina at night Whether you’re heading there with good friends, kids in tow, traveling solo, or simply wish to see if Dubai lives up to the buzz, this list has you covered. From desert safaris to indoor ski slopes to gold-drenched facials,
here’s your cheat sheet for the very best things to do in Dubai.Bonus: We have actually included suggestions to save money, prevent crowds, and link you to deep dives from our Dubai travel archives.
Struck the Big Tourist Attractions(Yes, They deserve It)Let’s be honest. When you land in Dubai, you’re entering a city that does not do subtle. And that’s half the fun.
- Burj Khalifa– The world’s tallest high-rise building. It’s iconic, and yes, it deserves standing at the base and craning your neck skyward. If you want the view, attempt to book your visit early in the day or around sunset for the best experience.Dubai Water fountain Show– Located right listed below the Burj Khalifa, this water and light show is among the best totally free things in the city. More complimentary things to do in Dubai tips here.Dubai Miracle Garden– Over 50 million flowering flowers organized in whimsical shapes, think huge teddy bears made of petals. Perfect with kids, or simply if you’re craving a color overload.Ain Dubai– The world’s largest observation wheel. Enter the night for flashing skyline views.
- Include a Little Peculiarity(The Uncommon Stuff)Dubai is excellent at taking things to the extreme(in the best method). Ski Dubai– A huge indoor ski hill inside
the Shopping mall of the Emirates. Where else can you ski, bobsled, or hang with penguins in the
- middle of the desert?Chillout Lounge– A café built from ice, down to the chairs. They hand you a parka and serve soup, sandwiches, and steaming mocktails. It’s garish and fun,
- specifically if it’s +42 ° C outside.Global Town– A seasonal multicultural theme park with food, reveals, and shopping from 90+nations. Think Epcot, but with more shawarma.For even more unanticipated experiences(zorbing, lava shell massages
- , and more), don’t miss 15 distinct things to do in Dubai. Things to Do with Kids(That Grownups Secretly Love Too) We have actually traveled the world with our kiddos
, and Dubai makes it simple to keep everyone delighted. Dubai Fish tank– Inside the Dubai Shopping center, with an enormous watching panel and walk-through tunnel.Adventure Zone– Ziplining, wall climbing, trampolines, basically a kid’s dream day.LEGOLAND Dubai– Smaller than its U.S. cousins, however loaded with charm.Desert Safari– Camel trips, henna painting, dune slamming, and tummy dancing under the stars.Get the full breakdown in our family-friendly
- Dubai guide. Explore Dubai free of charge(Yes, Really)
Dubai has a lot of luxe destinations, but you do not require to clear your
wallet to enjoy the city. Jumeirah Beach– Public, clean, and best for a swim or individuals viewing session.Dubai Creek– Watch wooden boats glide by and roam through the lovely Al
- Fahidi Historic District nearby.Alserkal Avenue– Dubai’s hippest art scene. No entry fee, however you might leave inspired.Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary– Flamingos in the desert? Yup. Best in winter.Here’s our complete list of the very best free places to visit.
- The Best Keepsakes to Purchase in Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, and yes, you can discover something cool beyond refrigerator magnets. Camel Milk Chocolate– Sounds odd. Tastes fantastic. Al Nassma is the go to brand.Pashmina Shawls– Genuine pashmina is very soft and lightweight (and features bragging rights). Keep an eye out for fake acrylics.Arabic Coffee Sets– Perfect if
you’ve fallen for cardamom laced coffee.Spices and Dates– Stock up on saffron, za’atar, and plump Medjool dates from the
- myriad of souks around the city.Miniature Burj Khalifas– Yes, they’re a bit touristy, however they’re fun.
- Especially the gold-plated ones. You’ll discover most of
- these in the Gold, Spice, and Fabric Souks or at the massive Dubai Shopping mall. For more concepts, take a look at our guide to the best things
- to buy in Dubai.< img width ="800"height="531" src ="https://www.thebarefootnomad.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/traditional-colorful-Arabic-scarves-DP.jpg"alt="standard vibrant Arabic headscarfs souvenir Dubai"/ > When Should You Go to Dubai?Here’s the brief answer: November to March. Warm days, cool
nights, and whatever’s open.Shoulder seasons like April or October? Great if you like heat and much shorter lines. Summer season? It’s workable, however get ready for a sauna experience. A great deal of outside attractions shut down and you’ll reside in air conditioning.We break everything down in our seasonal guide to going to Dubai. Dubai Marina at night Benefit Tips: Quick Wins for an Easier Journey Wi-Fi is everywhere, consisting of shopping malls, beaches, even the City
. Bring a VPN just in case.Public transportation is efficient, clean, and safe. Use the City for longer ranges and ride-sharing apps for brief hops.Dress code– Dubai’s lovely unwinded, but modest clothing is valued in public
locations. Believe shoulders and knees covered. The Takeaway Dubai is one of those uncommon cities where you can ski, store, sandboard, and sip saffron tea, all in the very same day. It’s fancy, yes, however it’s also filled with heat, color, and creativity.Whether you’re preparing a week
- of household enjoyable, a romantic trip, or an unique solo journey, Dubai has something unforeseen awaiting everybody. Still planning? Conserve this post for later and take a look at these posts of ours next: