Top 10 Things to do in Dubai for your Ultimate Holiday

  • Abhishek Dhital
  • Last Updated on Mar 25, 2024

Are you preparing to visit Dubai during your next journey? Excellent idea! With its outstanding skyscrapers and the countless activities you can do in Dubai, you will for sure enjoy your trip to one of the most modern destinations in the world. Exploring the top things to do in Dubai is not just a relaxation activity, it's a gateway to comprehending the city's soul.

Embarking on Dubai tourism is like immersing yourself in a city that effortlessly combines modern elements with time-honored traditions, crafting an exceptional adventure for tourists. Dubai has placed itself as a worldwide center for innovation, luxury, and cultural diversity, providing the top tourist attractions for those exploring its vibrant way of living.

Vibrant Dubai city during night | Abound Holidays

The emirate is well-known for its iconic skyline illuminated with futuristic skyscrapers, each a testament to architectural creativeness. Beyond the modern sensations, Dubai offers visitors a memorable opportunity to explore the intersections of unique practice and progress. The essence of delving into these prime attractions lies in the mixed fun and charm they weave. Dubai activities aren't only about shopping malls and skyscrapers, it's a subtle experience that lets travelers witness the city's various identities from the cultural immersions to the stimulating adventures in the desert safari, each place contributes to a holistic knowledge of Dubai's past, present, and future.

Additionally, exploring the best places to visit in Dubai is not just about witnessing landmarks, it's about welcoming the fusion of modernity and tradition, building memories that echo the heartbeat of this dynamic city.

In this informative blog, we'll present you a compilation of the Top 10 things to do in Dubai. So, dive into this incredible journey and allow the magic of Dubai to reveal a rich collection of experiences that will stay with you forever.

Table of Contents

Things to do in Dubai

This vast desert city constantly introduces impressive shopping destinations, cultural establishments, and galleries, all aimed at attracting a new wave of visitors. For those seeking an adrenaline kick, options start from sliding between the towering floors of a glass skyscraper to skydiving or taking a dive into the world's largest dive pool. In this remarkable city, the possibilities are nearly unlimited, and we've got a comprehensive list to authenticate to it. Also for more exciting Dubai tour packages, visit here.

Visit Dubai Miracle Garden

Embark on a visit to a floral paradise at Dubai Miracle Garden, well-known as the world's largest natural flower garden. Hosting an amazing collection of floral arrangements, this garden stands as a testament to human creativity and creation. It goes beyond being just a garden, it's a vibrant canvas that transforms with the changing seasons, providing sensory pleasure and a serene escape amid Dubai's urban hustle. Encompassing an impressive 72,000 square kilometers, the park showcases famous buildings and structures transformed into vibrant flower displays. Visitors can immerse themselves among over 50 million blossoming flowers through various displays.

Opening Hours: 9 am-9 pm weekdays, open until 10 pm on Saturday and Sunday.

Book your visit here.

Experience Dubai Desert Safari

Less than a 20-minute drive from the main roads of Downtown Dubai lies the amazing Arabian desert. Go on a Dubai-style desert safari, filled with thrilling activities like quad biking. This exciting experience offers a unique combination of adrenaline-rushing activities and a glimpse into the intriguing desert landscape. The desert safari also gives opportunities to witness the spectacular desert sundown and partake in classic activities such as camel riding and sandboarding. The Dubai Desert Safari swears an extraordinary journey into the vast, golden sands of the Arabian outdoors.

Vehicles for Dubai desert safari | Abound Holidays

More information about booking your spot here.

Explore the stunning Jumeirah Mosque

Vibrant Jumeirah Mosque in Dubai | Abound Holidays

Explore the charm of Jumeirah Mosque, a major attraction in Dubai for its remarkable accessibility to non-Muslims. This mosque, boasting the typical medieval Fatimid style and built entirely from white stone, stands as one of the most exquisite structures in the emirate, especially during sundown. Guided tours are available daily, excluding Fridays, lasting around 1 hour and 15 minutes. To secure a seat, arriving half an hour before the planned tour is advisable. Photography is permitted, the visitors adhere to a fair dress code, covering arms and legs, and women are required to cover their hair. Jumeirah Mosque offers a cultural experience that welcomes all to relish its architectural and historical essence.

Visit Dubai Creek

Modern Yacht sailing in Dubai water | Abound Holidays

The Dubai Creek serves as a spirited hub where classic wooden abras share the water with elegant modern yachts, offering a captivating combination of the old and the new. Located in the heart of the city, this saltwater zone is the original site where the Bani Yas Tribe established their first settlement. While you are at the Creek, at an incredible AED 1 per ticket, a traditional abra ride is a must. As the sun sets, the Creek transforms into a fascinating wonder, with lights reflecting off the water, creating a charmed atmosphere.

Visit the observation deck of Burj Khalifa

Dubai's skyline is dominated by the world's tallest building, a unique structure visible from nearly every corner of the city. Each day, thousands of visitors visit the tower, eagerly boarding one of the quickest elevators globally, and swiftly ascending to the observation decks on the 124th and 125th floors. But the adventure doesn't end there, the top awaits on the 148th floor, boasting the world's highest observing platform at an impressive height of 555 meters. From this observation point, relish in an exceptional panorama that encompasses the entire city.

There are several types of tickets available such as:

  • Ticket to the top of Burj Khalifa, which includes access to the 124th and 125th floors.

  • Ticket to the Lounge, which gives you access to the 152nd, 153rd, and 154th floors, the Lounge Bar of the Burj Khalifa.

  • VIP ticket at The Top Sky, which gives access to the 148th floor of Burj Khalifa + 124th and 125th floors, also quick access to the security checkpoints and elevator.

Additionally, If you plan to explore the Dubai Aquarium alongside your visit to the Burj Khalifa, go for the combined ticket covering the Burj Khalifa (124th and 125th floors) and the Aquarium. This option proves more cost-effective compared to buying the two tickets each.

Secure your access to the combined tickets by clicking here!

Shopping in Dubai

Renowned worldwide as a shopping Shangri-la, Dubai boasts a large collection of malls and markets that cater to every budget and taste. Beyond the mega-malls, classic souks provide a genuine and immersive shopping experience. Shopping in Dubai is also a cultural excursion. Sellers enthusiastically engage visitors, bargaining is an art, and the variety of products reflects the city's remarkable character.

Dubai Mall shining during night | Abound Holidays

You can't miss these two prominent malls of Dubai, considered shopping utopia for shopping lovers.

  • Dubai Mall: Located in the center of the city, next to the Burj Khalifa, you'll find the Dubai Mall. With over 1200 stores and numerous dining choices, you're bound to discover something that fits with both your budget and taste. This shopping paradise extends beyond retail stores, featuring indoor waterfalls, cinemas, an ice rink, an aquarium, and several other choices of attractions.

The Dubai Mall is open every day from 10 am until midnight. The food court and eateries are open until 1 am.

  • The Mall of Emirates: The Mall of the Emirates is more than just a shopping destination, it is a dynamic experience that seamlessly integrates retail therapy, recreation, and culinary treats, making it a must-visit landmark in Dubai's rich landscape. The elevated skylights and modern aesthetics create an inviting atmosphere for visitors to explore and shop in a world of luxury and relaxation. This shopping utopia beckons guests with an extensive collection of over 600 stores, ranging from global brands to local boutiques. Boasting a unique mix of retail and recreation, the mall is not only a shopper's paradise but also a hub for entertainment buffs. The iconic Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort, adds an incredible twist, letting visitors experience winter sports in the heart of the desert. The famous Vox Cinemas delivers a cinematic experience beyond greatness, making it an ideal destination for those desiring entertainment beyond shopping.

Visit Global Village

Every year from October to April, several visitors visit the famous Global Village. This renowned place will give you the full dose of satisfaction in quality shopping, family enjoyment, entertainment, and cuisine from around the globe. Global Village is situated outside of the city and offers replicas of numerous iconic structures, including the Taj Mahal and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. This place also features several pavilions, each dedicated to diverse countries like Egypt, Japan, Thailand, the USA, and a bunch more! Remember, on Mondays, this spot is open for families with children and women only.

  • Entrance Fee: 15 AED for a single entry.

  • Opening Time: Daily from 4 pm to midnight.

  • How to get there?

To reach the Global Village, take the Metro to the Mall of Emirates Station and then take bus 106 (20 AED round trip).

Enjoy the walk at The Beach

If you want to relax at the beach or swim, you should go to the public beach known as "The Beach". Here, you can take a walk along the sea or enjoy the multiple restaurants with decks and standard boutiques. Also, you can lease umbrellas and deck cheers for the day and enjoy the sunbathing.

Yacht Sailing at the sea of Dubai | Abound Holidays

How do I get there?

Take the subway to DAMAC, then transfer to the tram to Jumeirah Beach Residence to go to "The Beach."

Additionally, you can also go to one of the following beaches in Dubai, if you like swimming or sunbathing:

  • Kite Beach (best for Kite Surfers)

  • Sunset Beach (best view of the Burj Al Arab)

  • Al Mamzar Beach (located near a large park with a skate park, picnic areas, playground, and swimming pools)

Explore Dubai Parks and Resorts

If you are visiting Dubai with your family, this place is a real treat. Your children will have a great time in this huge amusement park. This extraordinary place is not just a cluster of theme parks, it's a world where fantasy comes to life. The parks collectively build an atmosphere of entertainment, laughter, and shared experiences, making it an ideal destination for families seeking wholesome amusement in the lively city of Dubai.

This place includes several theme parks and hotels, such as:

  • Bollywood Parks Dubai (famous for Indian film environments)

  • Motiongate Dubai (famous for its Hollywood movie-themed attractions and atmosphere)

  • Legoland Waterpark (famous for the water slides and wave pools)

  • Legoland Dubai (famous for the Lego Bricks)

  • Lapita Dubai Parks and Resorts (hotel inspired by Polynesian themes)

More information on booking for Dubai Parks and Resorts here.

Visit Dubai Financial District

The Financial District is a testament to Dubai's prompt rise as a multinational financial hub. As you witness the line of amazing office buildings, you will see the pulse of Dubai's economic activity. The Financial District is not just about tall structures, it's an extended representation of the city's strategic essence and economic vision on the world stage. Apart from its business-centric environment, this zone offers a refined blend of lifestyle conveniences. You'll be stunned by all the modern accomplishments that Dubai has achieved in a short period.

Wide view of the Dubai Financial District | Abound Holidays

Here are the major buildings inside the Financial District.

  • World Trade Center (Dubai’s First Skyscrapers)

  • Gate Building

  • Jumeirah Emirates Tower

  • Galleries of the DIFC

Cultural Experiences in Dubai

local guy performing fire show in Dubai |Abound Holidays

Exploring cultural experiences in Dubai is a fascinating journey through this vibrant and passionate city. From the well-known Al Fahidi Historic District, where cobblestone streets and wind towers relate stories of the past, to the Jumeirah Mosque, welcoming both Muslims and non-Muslims to understand Islamic practices, Dubai offers a rich combination of legacy and modernity. The Dubai Museum, located in the Al Fahidi Fort, provides captivating displays that trace the city's growth from a fishing village to a global metropolis. Classic souks, like the Spice Souk and Gold Souk, offer a genuine taste of the bustling markets, while artistic events at the Dubai Opera showcase the city's dedication to the arts. Cultural experiences in Dubai are not just a glimpse into the past but a celebration of the city's mixed identity and its ongoing progress toward the future.

Luxury Experiences in Dubai

night view of the Atlantis Dubai | Abound Holidays

Witnessing the luxury experiences in Dubai is an amazing journey through extravagance and refinement. The city, recognized for its commitment to luxury, boasts iconic landmarks such as the Burj Al Arab, a symbol of exceptional luxury that stands proudly on its own island. Dubai's skyline, overwhelmed by the Burj Khalifa, invites travelers to soar to new heights and enjoy panoramic views from its observation decks. Luxury shopping destinations like the Mall of the Emirates and the Dubai Mall offer a curated choice of high-end brands. Deluxe resorts on Palm Jumeirah, like the Atlantis, promise sumptuous accommodations and world-class comforts. Whether it's a luxury dining experience in Michelin-starred restaurants or a refreshing spa day overlooking the Arabian Gulf, luxury experiences in Dubai redefine the definition of indulgence.

At The End

Before you venture on your Dubai journey, consider these "Top 10 things to do in Dubai". Pack essentials for the weather, appreciate cultural norms, and ensure your safety to make the most out of your journey. So, pack your bags and immerse yourself in the wonders of Dubai.

Abhishek Dhital

Abhishek Dhital

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