What to Do in Dubai? Our Top 30 Activities

Are you planning your trip and wondering what to do in Dubai? A destination that’s really taking off, Dubai is the city of excess! This is true both in terms of its infrastructure and impressive skyscrapers, as well as the activities it offers.

But this city in the United Arab Emirates is also full of surprises! Don’t overlook its 200 years of history and all the cultural attractions that Dubai has to offer.

Whether you’re a family with children, an adventurous traveler, or a cultural explorer, here’s an overview of the 30 best activities and attractions we recommend in Dubai.

Top 30 Dubai: Thrilling Activities and Unique Experiences

What to do in Dubai? This city is constantly changing, and there are always plenty of extraordinary things to see and do. To help you choose and prioritize, we’ve created a Top 30 list of things to do in Dubai.

Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the world’s tallest tower

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Burj Khalifa

Visit the world’s tallest building and enjoy the breathtaking view of Dubai

The Burj Khalifa is one of Dubai’s most famous towers. Standing 828 meters tall, itis the world’s tallest skyscraper. The Burj Khalifa offers breathtaking views of the city of Dubai and its surroundings. You can go up to the “At the Top” observatory located on the 124th/sup floor to enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view. It is recommended to book in advance to avoid long lines.

The Burj Khalifa also houses high-end restaurants, offices, luxury apartments, and even a world-renowned hotel, the Armani Hotel Dubai.

In addition to visiting theBurj Khalifa observation deck, you can also enjoy the evening sound-and-light shows for free.

One of the many levels of the Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping mall, featuring Nike Town.

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Dubai Mall

Explore one of the world’s largest shopping malls, with over 1,200 stores and restaurants

The Dubai Mall is located next to the Burj Khalifa. It’s a bit like a shopper’s paradise! There, you’ll find a wide variety of luxury brand stores, fashion boutiques, jewelry stores, electronics shops, and much more.

In addition to shopping, the Dubai Mall offers a wide variety of attractions. For example, explore the Dubai Mall’s giant aquarium and discover the many species of fish, sharks, and other marine animals. There’s also an ice rink, a movie theater, and rides for kids.

The mall also offers a wide variety of restaurants for every budget. From high-end restaurants to fast-food joints, there’s something for everyone.

The Dubai Mall is a must-see for shopping and entertainment enthusiasts.

Dubai Fountains at Night

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Dubai Fountain

Watch a fountain show synchronized with music and lights

As you can see, this isn’t just a simple fountain—it’s a full-scale show featuring water jets and light displays that dance to the beat of the music. It also holds the title of “world’s largest fountain.”

Located between the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall, this is the free show you won’t want to miss! Every 30 minutes, enjoy a new fountain dance set to a wide variety of music genres: Middle Eastern, classical, contemporary…
The show takes place daily at 1:00 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. and in the evening between 6:00 p.m. and 11:00 p.m.

Of course, you won’t be the only ones wanting to enjoy the show. To get the most out of the experience, we recommend taking a boat tour on the lake.

Burj Al Arab in Dubai

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Burj Al Arab

Visit Dubai’s iconic sail-shaped hotel and enjoy breathtaking views of the city

Also known as the Tower of the Arabs, this luxury hotel is the only one in the world to hold a 7-star rating. It is undoubtedly Dubai’s most famous architectural landmark.

It features elegant luxury suites, , wellness facilities, and spectacular views of the sea and the Persian Gulf. Everything is absolutely magnificent!

Recently, a guided tour of the interior of the Burj Al Arab has become available. It allows you to learn more about the history and construction of this iconic building.
You’ll also be able to admire the hotel’s breathtaking atrium and access the 25th floor.

Dubai Miracle Garden

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Dubai Miracle Garden

Take a stroll through this colorful garden, home to more than 45 million flowers

The Dubai Miracle Garden is the world’s largest natural flower garden: it features over 45 million flowers across 72,000 square meters.

The garden is open only during the due to high temperatures during the summer. During this time, enjoy the vibrant colors and fragrances of the various flowers, plants, and shrubs, as well as the impressive floral sculptures and artistic installations.

The Dubai Miracle Garden is the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nature.

Souks in Dubai

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Deira and its souks

Stroll through the narrow streets of this picturesque neighborhood and visit the various souks (gold, perfume, spices)

This isone of the oldest neighborhoods in Dubai. Here you’ll find traditional architecture and the enchanting atmosphere of a small Arab village. It’s a must-see!

But what certainly best represents the Deira neighborhood are the souks.It’s here, in particular, that you’ll find the famous Gold Souk, the Spice Souk, and the Perfume Souk. It’s the perfect place to find travel souvenirs.

A tip: Never buy at the listed price—be sure to haggle.

Palm Jumeirah, the palm-shaped island in Dubai

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Palm Jumeirah

Discover this artificial island shaped like a palm tree

This artificial island shaped like a palm tree is certainly Dubai’s most famous structure, but also its most controversial. Construction took 7 years.

It is home to numerous luxury villas and several luxury hotel complexes, including the famous Atlantis Hotel. The Lost Chambers aquarium and the Aquaventure water park are also located at the tip of the island.

You can travel from one end to the other via a monorail or view it and take photos from a helicopter.

Mall of the Emirates Stores

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Mall of the Emirates

A massive shopping mall where you’ll find a movie theater, an amusement park, and many other activities, such as Ski Dubai

The Mall of the Emirates is a massive shopping mall offering a variety of experiences and entertainment. It features luxury boutiques and major brands, as well as a movie theater and an amusement park. But it’s best known for its indoor ski resort, Ski Dubai.

There are also restaurants and cafés serving local and international cuisine, and even cooking classes. The Mall of the Emirates is one of the largest shopping malls in the world. If you want to go shopping in Dubai, this is a must-visit destination!

Ain Dubai, Dubai's Ferris wheel

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Ain Dubai

It’s the world’s largest Ferris wheel! The view offers a magnificent panorama of Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah

The Ain Dubai Ferris wheel stands majestically at 210 meters tall and offers a breathtaking view of JBR Beach and Dubai Marina. The cabins are spacious (you can stand up in them) and air-conditioned.

The wheel turns relatively slowly, allowing you to enjoy the exceptional view of the Dubai Marina skyline for about 30 minutes. From the top, you can clearly see the palm tree shape of the Palm Jumeirah peninsula.

Ain Dubai is currently closed.

Aerial view of the Aquaventure Water Park in Dubai

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Aquaventure Waterpark

Located within the Atlantis The Palm resort, this water park will entertain young and old alike

This water park is undoubtedly the most popular in Dubai. Water slides, lazy rivers, and thrilling rides. Everything is designed to entertain both kids and adults!

For adrenaline junkies, you can ride the Leap of Faith, a nearly vertical slide, almost 28 meters high, that sends you plunging into a shark tank! Shark Attack, another must-see attraction, immerses you in the middle of an aquarium where you can discover fish, rays, and sharks.

Dubai Museum

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Dubai Museum

Discover thehistory and culture of Dubai at this museum located in a historic fort in Bur Dubai

This is the cultural tour you’ll want to plan during your stay! Just a few years ago, Dubai was a fishing village. This museum explains the way of life of Dubai’s residents in the 20th century and helps you understand the city’s evolution up to the present day.

The museum is located in a magnificent building constructed in 1787, called Al Fahidi Fort. Inside, you’ll discover a room entirely dedicated to pearl harvesting as well as a reconstructed souk.

The Dubai Museum is currently undergoing renovations and is closed to the public.

Entrance to the Madinat Jumeirah Souk

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Madinat Jumeirah

A clever blend of a traditional Arab souk and a modern shopping mall

A “Arabian Nights” atmosphere guaranteed!

The Madinat Jumeirah hotel and shopping complex resembles a contemporary Arab village with narrow streets lined with souvenir shops and restaurants. The roof of this very modern, air-conditioned souk is magnificent: it’s made of carved wood.

Beautifully decorated and adorned with bougainvillea, the village is bordered by canals where you can take an abra ride. It also offers a breathtaking view of the Burj Al Arab.

Boats moored in Dubai Marina

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Dubai Marina

Relax at one of the many restaurants and cafes around the marina, or take a boat cruise

A very touristy area, Dubai Marina is a neighborhood perfect for a stroll. It’s the ideal place to wander along its landscaped promenades while enjoying the cityscape.

Ideal for a stay, this neighborhood runs along the waterfront and features playgrounds for children as well asa wide variety of restaurants and shops, including the Dubai Marina Mall.

This is where many cruise ships depart from—another must-do activity during your stay.

Dubai Museum of the Future

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Dubai Museum of the Future

Immerse yourself in a futuristic atmosphere in this building with breathtaking architecture

Recently opened, this museum’s design—a true work of art—attracts many tourists.

Inside, it’s a true journey to another world that awaits you. Topics such as global warming, health, and artificial intelligence are explored. On the agenda: immersive and futuristic experiences

One thing is for sure—is that you won’t walk away from this visit unscathed.

Ain Dubai from JBR Beach in Dubai

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The Beach JBR

Enjoy the beach, restaurants, shops, and attractions for the whole family

This free-access beach is the perfect place to relax and swim. It also offers a variety of attractions where young and old alike can have fun: camel rides, Aquasplash, or jet skiing.

You can easily walk to Bluewaters Island and the Ain Duba Ferris wheel.

The Walk at JBR is a promenade stretching several kilometers along this beach, featuring a wide variety of shops and restaurants.

Perfect for a relaxing day!

Abras, traditional boats of Dubai

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Dubai Creek

Take a cruise on an abra, a traditional Dubai boat, and discover the traditional architecture of Dubai’s historic creek

To cross Dubai Creek and travel from one neighborhood to another—Bur Dubai and Deira—you’ll need to take an abra, a traditional Dubai boat.

These small wooden boats can carry about twenty people at a time. They are very representative of the city’s past. In the past, abras were used to transport goods.

This quintessential Dubai activity is sure to delight the kids!

Dubai Frame

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Dubai Frame

Enjoy the view of the city from the giant picture-frame-shaped structure

This magnificent monument is known for its unique photo-frame shape. But that’s not all—it’s also highly symbolic! Located at the foot of Zabeel Park, a visit here lets you learn more about the history and evolution of Dubai.

An observatory located 150 meters high, offers an incredible panoramic view of the city: on one side is Old Dubai, and on the other is modern Dubai.

Global Village Dubai

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Global Village

Visit this cultural theme park where you can discover traditions and flavors from around the world

This theme park offers an immersive experience of traveling around the world. The culture, cuisine, and crafts of 75 different countries are showcased and grouped into different pavilions.

Open daily starting at 4:00 PM and only from October through April, you can also enjoy shops, restaurants, a carnival, and the many shows and fireworks displays held to celebrate the world’s cultural diversity.

World Islands in Dubai, a group of artificial islands shaped like a map of the world
©NASA.gov – ISS022-E-24940

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The World Islands

Fly over these 300 small artificial islands representing the world map by helicopter

This group of artificial islands representing the continents of the globe is accessible by boat or by air. Most of these islands are private and reserved exclusively for celebrities. As a tourist, you can visit Lebanon Island and enjoy its beach or other water activities.

In our opinion, the best way to experience The World Islands is to see this archipelago from the sky. And the ideal way to do that is to take a helicopter tour! Not only is the experience incredible, but you’ll truly appreciate the sheer size of the city of Dubai.

Dubai Canal Walk

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Dubai Canal Walk

This promenade, stretching several kilometers, offers breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai skyline

Located along Dubai’s man-made canal, this 6.4-kilometer promenade offers extraordinary views of the city. Along the way, you can also enjoy restaurants and shops.

We strongly recommend taking this walk in the late afternoon or evening. Seeing the city’s twinkling lights really adds to the magical atmosphere of the place. Take a moment to watch the comings andof the abras, and don’t miss the Tolerance Bridge, one of the five pedestrian bridges, known for its purple arch.

Jumeirah Mosque

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Jumeirah Mosque

Visit one of the few mosques open to non-Muslims and discover Islamic architecture

The Jumeirah Mosque is Dubai’s most iconic mosque because it opens its doors to visitors of all faiths. Of course, you’ll need to follow the guidelines and wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees. women must also cover their hair.

Its architecture is truly sublime : its large central dome is flanked by two minarets. It is built entirely of white stone.

Guided tours are available and offer the chance to learn more about Islamic culture and the mosque’s history. Please note that the mosque is closed on Fridays.

Dubai Mall Aquarium Tube

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Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Explore theaquarium located inside the Dubai Mall and discover fascinating marine creatures

It isone of the world’s largest aquariums located right in the middle of the Dubai Mall ! It is home to more than 30,000 fish and other aquatic species, such as rays and sharks.

You can walk through this immense tank via an immersive tunnel. Through the glass walls, you can explore the aquatic life and feel as if you’re right in the middle of the aquarium.

Another attraction: the underwater zoo. You can go on a journey to meet various animals such as penguins and, above all, meet the zoo’s star, King Croc, a crocodile weighing 750 kg and measuring 5 meters long.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi

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Excursion to Abu Dhabi

Set out to discover the gems of the capital of the United Arab Emirates on a day trip

Abu Dhabi is located just 1 hour and 30 minutes from Dubai and is easily accessible on a day trip. This tour is definitely worth it. You’ll be amazed by the city’s rich culture.

Your driver will pick you up at your hotel early in the morning and take you to explore Abu Dhabi’s must-seemust-see attractions in Abu Dhabi, including the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Mosque and the Louvre.

The Lost Chambers, an aquarium in Dubai

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Lost Chambers Aquarium

Dive into this lost city at the bottom of the sea in search of sharks and crocodiles

This aquarium promises an incredible experience by transporting you to an underwater world. Located inside the Atlantis Hotel, right next to the Aquaventure water park on Palm Jumeirah, you’ll discover thousands of marine creatures, including manta rays and sharks.

The place is incredible. It takes you deep into the heart of the sea, where you can wander through various underwater tunnels. You’ll truly feel as if you’ve dived to the bottom of the sea. DIn fact, the bravest visitors can even go scuba diving there!

Ski Dubai, the indoor ski slope in Dubai

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Ski Dubai

Try your hand at skiing on this indoor ski slope

Ski Dubai is a ski resort located inside the Mall of the Emirates. It has all the mountain vibes: artificial snow, cool temperatures, and chairlifts.

Inside this complex, you can hit the slopes of the world’s largest indoor ski run on skis, a snowboard, or on a tube.

Ski Dubai also features a family area with various snow games and opportunities to meet penguins.

Entrance to Dubai Parks and Resorts

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Dubai Parks and Resorts

Have fun at one of the theme parks, such as Motiongate, Legoland, or Legoland Water Park

Dubai Parks and Resorts is a massive complex comprising three different theme parks: Motiongate (movie-themed attractions), Legoland (family amusement park), and Legoland Waterpark (water park).

You can spend the day at a single park or choose to hop from park to park. The choice is yours! Either way, these amusement and water parks guarantee memorable experiences for the whole family.

Etihad Museum in Dubai

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Etihad Museum

Discover the contemporary history of the United Arab Emirates in a fun and interactive way

This museum is entirely dedicated to the history and founding of the United Arab Emirates. Its modern building offers a fun and interactive visitor experience.

You’ll discover interactive exhibits,, as well as historical documents, photos, personal accounts, and other artifacts that perfectly illustrate the history and culture of the UAE.

Take a moment to look at the building’s shape! It symbolizes the signing of the United Arab Emirates’ constitution in 1971: the roof represents the paper and the treaty, and the five pillars represent the pens used to sign this act of union.

Zip line over the Dubai Marina

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Zip line over the marina (Xline)

Get your thrills as you cross Dubai Marina on the world’s longest zip line

This zip line promises a memorable experience. The ride starts from a platform 170 meters above the ground. Strapped into a harness and facing forward, you’ll soar over the water for 1 kilometer at a top speed of 80 km/h. Adrenaline rush guaranteed!

Keep your eyes open during your descent! You’ll enjoy a breathtaking view of the skyscrapers at Dubai Marina.

Meet dinosaurs and superheroes at IMG Worlds of Adventure theme park

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IMG Worlds of Adventure

Experience thrilling adventures at this extraordinary theme park

IMG Worlds of Adventure is the largest indoor theme park.

It promises visitors great adventures in its 6 themed zones: Marvel, Cartoon Network, IMG Boulevard, Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure, Haunted Hotel, and IMG Kids Zone.

Shows, roller coasters, or even encounters with superheroes… there’s something for everyone!

Dubai garden glow

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Dubai Garden Glow

The park’s illuminations are sure to amaze you

This attraction offers a unique visual experience. Plan your visit for the evening!

The park is divided into 3 zones:
Glow Park features sculptures and displays created using millions of colorful LED lights. The result is breathtaking!
Dinosaur Park features life-size animated dinosaur replicas animated life-size replicas.
Magic Park showcases optical illusions that transform your visit into an extraordinary adventure.

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