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    Dubai is a kaleidoscope of magnificent skyscrapers, swanky malls, beaches, amusement parks, and traditional souks. Dubai is bright, vivacious and full of life. The city looks pretty and with so much to do, Dubai attracts tourists round the year. Before you get boggled with what to do and check out; here is our recommendation on top things to do in Dubai, for people of all age groups which includes a visit to the Burj Khalifa, skydiving at Palm Jumeirah, lake ride at Dubai fountain, desert safari with BBQ dinner and more. Try these experiences and make your Dubai trip worth in every sense.

    19 Best Things To Do In Dubai

    There are numerous things to do in Dubai from theater to beaches, shopping and more. The various fun and amazing experiences in Dubai have been noted down, right for you. Read more to know the most amazing things to do in Dubai.

    • Desert Safari – Explore The Sprawling Desert
    • Dhow Dinner Cruise – Enjoy The Stunning View Of Dubai Skyline
    • Hot Air Balloon Ride – Don’t Miss This Ultimate Thrill
    • Ski Dubai – Ski Resort In A Desert
    • Helicopter Ride – Fly In A Helicopter Over The City
    • Quad Biking – Dune Bashing At Its Best
    • Wakeboarding – Perfect Delight For Adventure Junkies
    • Souk Tour – Retail Therapy Always Works
    • Burj Khalifa – The Best Panoramic View Ever
    • Swanky Malls – Eat, Shop And A Lot More!
    • iFly – Experience Indoor Skydiving
    • Dubai Aquarium And Underwater Zoo – Fun And Frolic
    • Luxury Yacht Tour – Sail Along
    • Dubai Global Village – The Ultimate Fun
    • Kite Beach – Stroll, Sunbathe And Watch Sunset
    • Dubai Fountain – An Awe Inspiring Show
    • Etihad Museum – Learn About UAE’s Modern Era
    • Dubai Opera – Discover Dubai’s Splendid Architecture
    • Jumeriah Mosque – Most Photographed Mosque

    1. Desert Safari – Explore The Sprawling Desert

    4x4 desert safari Dubai

    Looking for the best activities in Dubai? Desert safari is one of the must-try and most fascinating things to do in Dubai with family, particularly with kids. Desert safaris here include camel safari, dune bashing sandboarding, and quad biking. Not only these adventure activities but you will be attending electrifying fire shows, Tanura shows, belly dance and your day will end with scrumptious barbeque dinner. It is half a day activity and no Dubai trip is complete without this!

    Location: Al Qudra Desert, Dubai
    Opening hours: 3:30 pm to 9: 30pm
    Tickets: INR 5095/person

    Must Read: 23 Best Places To Visit In Dubai With Family in 2023 For A Holiday Like None Other!


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    2. Dhow Dinner Cruise – Enjoy The Stunning View Of Dubai Skyline

    Dhow Cruise

    After spending the entire day in the city, how about cruising and dining in a traditional Dhow on Dubai creek? The view of the city with glittering skyline at night is astounding while the pleasant 3-hour long cruise and sumptuous dinner makes it one of the best things to do in Dubai. This romantic excursion is offered by many agencies who offer handsome deals. Undoubtedly, it is one of the best things to do in Dubai at night. 

    Location: Dubai Creek
    Opening hours: 8:30 pm to 11:30 pm
    Tickets: INR 850/person

    Suggested Read: Dubai New Year: A Guide For The Celebration

    3. Hot Air Balloon Ride – Don’t Miss This Ultimate Thrill

    marrakech hot air ballooning

    Flying in a luxurious hot air balloon over Dubai desert sounds like a dream. But this is one of the most adventurous things to do in Dubai and one can easily try this astounding experience while holidaying in Dubai. Floating at 4,000 ft from the ground; one can experience the world’s first in-flight falcon show during Dubai Hot Air Balloon Ride. Such an experience will surely create unforgettable memories and the view from this great height will leave your jaw drop.

    Location: Tiffany Tower – Suit no: 1202 – Cluster W – Dubai
    Opening hours: 9 am to 5 pm
    Tickets: INR 25,000/person. Ride plus breakfast. Half a day

    Suggested Read: Visit These 10 Top Art Galleries In Dubai To Feed You Mind And Soul With Ethereal Art

    4. Ski Dubai – Ski Resort In A Desert

    play with snow at ski dubai

    Settled at Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai is among the fun places to see in Dubai. People can enjoy indoor skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing and play with snow, make snowballs and creatures. For all those who have craving for ultimate thrill and adventure; skiing at Ski Dubai is one of the most exciting things to do in Dubai on a holiday. It is also amongst the best adventure sports in Dubai. 

    Location: Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road – Dubai
    Opening hours: 10 am to 11 pm
    Tickets: INR 4111/ person

    Suggested Read: Bungee Jumping In Dubai: 7 Tips Every Beginner Should Be Aware Of

    5. Helicopter Ride – Fly In A Helicopter Over The City

    Aerial view of Dubai

    Dubai is a fantasy-filled destination and there are a lot of things which adventure junkies and thrill-seekers will love to indulge in. One such thing is the helicopter ride over Dubai city. The experience of 25 minutes long helicopter ride will offer a breath-taking view of the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Creek, The Jumeirah coastline, Wild Wadi, The Palm Jumeriah, and The World Islands. Certainly, this is one of the fun things to do in Dubai, that no one should miss.

    Location: Atlantis, The Palm. Nasimi Beach Parking, Atlantis Hotel, Palm-Dubai
    Opening hours: 8 am to 6 pm
    Tickets: INR 12594/person

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    6. Quad Biking – Dune Bashing At Its Best

    Biking in desert

    Imagine yourself riding through and bashing the dunes while driving a four-wheeled bike in Dubai. What could be more exhilarating? Get ready to try one of the most adventurous things to do in Dubai all by yourself. Ride the dunes, drive through, bash them and enjoy a super thrilling ride in the deserts.

    Suggested Read: 60 Tourist Places In Dubai: Do Not Come Back Without Visiting These Marvels!

    7. Wakeboarding – Perfect Delight For Adventure Junkies

    wakeboarding

    Adventure enthusiasts visiting Dubai can experience wakeboarding and wake surfing at Marina. Thrilling rides are given to all who crave for this fun and even wake camps are organised for adventure junkies. Though not one of the top things to do in Dubai, wakeboarding has gained tremendous popularity in no time. 

    Suggested Read: 10 Most Fabulous Places To Enjoy Desert Camping In Dubai

    8. Souk Tour – Retail Therapy Always Works

    Dubai Market

    Heads up, shopaholics! Dubai is a shopper’s heaven. Besides having plush malls, Dubai is blessed with traditional souks which are antique market places. Local traders have their shops in the souk and they present the best of products at most competitive prices. In Dubai, there are quite a few souks but exploring the popular ones like Gold Souk and Spice Souk is one of the exciting things to do in Dubai, particularly for a refreshing retail therapy.

    Suggested Read: Aquaventure Waterpark: Slides, Rides, Sharks, Sting Rays And More In Dubai

    9. Burj Khalifa – The Best Panoramic View Ever

    Burj Khalifa

    Nothing can be more fascinating than watching the sunset from 124th and 125th levels of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower. With a jaw-dropping 360-degree view over the Arabian Gulf, Burj Khalifa is a favourite hotspot for all kinds of tourists and experiencing the beautiful sunset view from there has surely been one of the best things to do in Dubai with family.

    Location: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Dubai
    Opening hours: During sunset. The total duration is 1 and a half hours.
    Tickets: INR 4417/person

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    10. Swanky Malls – Eat, Shop And A Lot More!

    Dubai Mall

    Even if souks have been an enthralling experience, none can leave Dubai without visiting the ritzy malls. With high-end couture, boutiques, top-notch brand outlets, and world-class restaurants and other recreational activities; malls in Dubai like Malls of Emirates, The Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina Mall, etc. buzz round the year with tourists and local people. Walking through these high-end malls is an experience by itself and counted as top things to do in Dubai for shopaholics.

    Suggested Read: Bastakia In Old Dubai: The Ancient Foundation Of The Dazzling City Of Dizzying Heights

    11. iFly – Experience Indoor Skydiving 

    Indoor Skydiving

    This one is surreal activity that must be included in the list of the most fun things to do in Dubai. iFly offers various packages for indoor skydiving, specially designed for kids, first-time flyers and professionals. There is the double vertical wind tunnel at iFly that takes you to a whole new level of simulated, gravity-defying skydiving experience. With world-class security measures, get charged up to enjoy the amazing indoor skydiving experience, guided by professionals and experts.

    Location: Third Floor, Play Nation Area, City Centre Mirdif، Ghoroob, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Dubai
    Opening hours: 12 noon to 10 pm.
    Tickets: INR 3500/ person

    Suggested Read: Nightlife In Dubai: What’s In The Store For The Kind Of Traveler You Are!

    12. Dubai Aquarium And Underwater Zoo – Fun And Frolic

    Dubai underwater zoo

    If you are shortlisting things to do in Dubai with kids, this has to be on the list. Counted as one of the largest suspended aquariums of the world; Dubai Aquarium is home to numerous aquatic animals like fish, sharks, octopuses, dolphins, etc. One can also enjoy a glass bottom ride over the tank and those who are daring at heart can indulge in snorkeling activities. Located at the ground level of Dubai Mall; this is the perfect place to hang out after a hearty shopping.

    Location: The Dubai Mall
    Opening hours: 10 am to 12 midnight
    Tickets: Starting INR 1741/person

    Suggested Read: Dubai Marina: The One Stop Destination For Breathtaking Panorama And Unparalleled Luxury!

    13. Luxury Yacht Tour – Sail Along

    Seating area on luxury yacht Norma

    One can explore the entire Dubai Marina and Dubai Creek in a stylish luxury yacht. Sail along and enjoy the stunning views of Hotel Atlantis, Burj Khalifa and Dubai skyline. Sunbathe and chill out at the upper deck of the yacht while hot fresh barbeque breakfast will be served on board.

    Tickets: IBR 4054/person. The ticket price includes a ride plus breakfast.

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    14. Dubai Global Village – The Ultimate Fun

    Tourists strolling through the global village and enjoying the Dubai Shopping festival

    Dubai is truly a family holiday destination with so many things to do in Dubai with family. While talking about this, count Dubai Global Village; a complete package of fun, amusement, and recreation. From rides and carnivals to experience centres, shops and food; this place entertains visitors of all kinds. Come here with family and kids, spend the entire day and leave with a bunch of unforgettable memories.

    Location: Emirates Road – Exit 37 – E311 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
    Opening hours: 4 pm to 12 midnight
    Tickets: INR 290/ person

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    15. Kite Beach – Stroll, Sunbathe And Watch Sunset

    Couple at the Kite Beach, Dubai

    Dubai is known for some pristine and less explored beaches and Kite Beach is surely one of them. Adorned by blue water, this sun kissed beach along the Arabian Gulf makes it a perfect spot for sunbathing, leisure walks and stunning sunset views.

    Location: Kite Beach – Dubai
    Opening hours: 10 am to 10 pm

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    16. Dubai Fountain – An Awe Inspiring Show

    The Dubai Fountain

    The Dubai Fountain is located at the centre of downtown Dubai. Witness the popular 30 minutes display of water dance show. The water jet reaches a height of 140m in the air creating a magical ambience. This most popular show takes place every 30 minutes until the last show at 11 PM. Watching this spectacular show is one of the best things to do in Dubai with kids. 

    Location: Fashion Parking – Dubai Mall – Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
    Opening hours: Evening displays begin at sundown until 11 PM; afternoon show (1pm and 1:30pm), except on Fridays (1:30pm to 2pm)

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    17. Etihad Museum – Learn About UAE’s Modern Era

    What You Can Find At Etihad Museum In Dubai

    The magnificent Etihad Museum gives you a chance to discover the contemporary UAE history. It features rich heritage of the UAE in the areas of political, scientific, cultural, social and history through films, photos and more. It showcases everything like old passport, personal artifacts and more. Without a doubt, visiting this museum is one of the most unique things to do in Dubai. 

    Location: Jumeirah St – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
    Opening hours: 10.00 AM to 8.00 PM 

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    18. Dubai Opera – Discover Dubai’s Splendid Architecture

    Dubai Opera

    Dubai Opera is a performing arts center located in the new Opera district. The huge property can accommodate an audience of 2000 people. The building provides a wonderful view of the Dubai Fountain and the structure of the building has been influenced by the shape of Arabian dhow ships. Undoubtedly, it is a true architectural marvel in the city. 

    Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
    Opening hours: NA
    Seating capacity: 2000

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    19. Jumeriah Mosque – Most Photographed Mosque

    a shot of mosque taken in evening

    Visiting Jumeriah Mosque is one of the must do things in Dubai. It is among those few mosques that welcome people with  warmth from diverse communities. Hence, everyone should visit this mosque atleast once regardless of their religious belief. Travelers are attracted to this wonderful attraction because of its cultural significance. 

    Location: Dubai – United Arab Emirates
    Opening hours: 10.00 AM to 8.00 PM

    Further Read: Dubai In September 2023: An Ultimate Handbook To Answer Your Questions Instantly!

    With so many engaging and interesting things to do in Dubai; one should start planning a vacation right away. Plan your Dubai trip with Travel Triangle and experience these amazing things to do there as they offer the most awesome vacation time!

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    Please Note: Any information published by TravelTriangle in any form of content is not intended to be a substitute for any kind of medical advice, and one must not take any action before consulting a professional medical expert of their own choice.

    Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do In Dubai

    What can you do in Dubai for free?

    One can experience Dubai’s culture and heritage, gain free entry at Camel Museum, get free Yoga classes, have a free view of Dubai Aquarium, Dubai Fountains Display, get free entry to the Jumeirah Beach Corniche etc.

    What are the best activities in Dubai?

    The best activities in Dubai include visiting Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, the Dubai Mall, Ski Dubai, Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, the Dubai Fountain, Aquaventure Waterpark, Dubai Miracle Garden, Wild Wadi Waterpark etc.

    Which are the places to visit in Dubai on a 3 days trip?

    Some of the places to visit in Dubai during a 3-day trip include:
    – Burj Khalifa
    – Palm Jumeirah
    – Burj Al Arab
    – Dubai Aquarium
    – Dubai Desert
    – Wild Wadi Water Park

    Which is the best time to visit Dubai?

    The best time to visit Dubai is during winter months, particularly from November to April. If you wish to enjoy Dubai Shopping Festival, plan in January and February.

    Which are the best places to stay in Dubai?

    The best places to stay in Dubai are Atlantis The Palm, Four Points By Sheraton, Burj Khalifa, Hyatt Regency, etc.

    Which are the popular malls in Dubai?

    The popular malls in Dubai are:
    – Ibn Bauta Mall
    – Mall of the Emirates
    – Dubai Mall
    – Dubai Outlet Mall
    – Global Village
    – City Centre
    – City Walk

    Name some famous waterpark in Dubai?

    Popular water parks in Dubai are:
    – Legoland Water Park
    – Aqua Fun Water Park
    – Laguna Water Park
    – Wild Wadi Waterpark
    – Splash Pad

    How many days are required for a Dubai vacation?

    4-5 days are enough for a fulfilling Dubai vacation.

    What is there to shop in Dubai?

    The best things to buy in Dubai are Aladdin Lamps, Camel Milk Chocolates Dates, Spices, Lanterns, Persian Rugs, perfumes and hookahs.

    What can families do in Dubai?

    There are many activities like Sandboarding, watching dancing fountain, going on a desert safari, visiting the Dubai spice souk and the gold souk.

    Where can one see New Year fireworks in Dubai?

    Burj Khalifa, Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Souk al Bahar and Al Manzil Plaza are some of the places where you can witness the best New Year fireworks in Dubai.

    What is the currency of Dubai?

    The currency of Dubai is known as Arab Emirate Dirham (AED). One AED is equivalent to 19.52 INR and it keeps on changing on a day to day basis.


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