The UAE is a popular travel destination, and as such, you should research all aspects of Dubai before planning your holiday. This cosmopolitan city features a unique blend of futuristic architecture, desert activities, luxury shopping options, and great cultural heritage, along with many exciting attractions. You can use this guide to find out about the many things that Dubai has to offer based on your travels, whether you are travelling with family, friends, or alone.
There are an abundance of things to see and do in Dubai; this list focuses on the 11 best things to do in Dubai, including famous landmarks, cultural sites, and entertainment venues.
1. Burj Khalifa (Dubai’s Iconic Observational Peak)
Amongst Dubai’s most iconic buildings, the Burj Khalifa remains a symbol of Dubai. The view you experience while at any of the 3 levels (124, 125, and 148) from the Burj Khalifa is a breathtaking 360-degree panorama. You will experience the iconic views of Dubai and the desert surroundings in a unique way whether you visit during daylight hours or at sunset.
It is very common for tourists to include visiting Burj Khalifa first when selecting the best things to do in Dubai, because nothing in Dubai gives visitors an aerial perspective of the city like Burj Khalifa.
2. The Dubai Mall and Experience The Dubai Fountain Show
Next, make sure to visit the Dubai Mall, which is adjacent to the Burj Khalifa. This enormous shopping destination is home to amazing shopping, dining, and entertainment, as well as a variety of other offerings. It is not just a shopping mall; it’s an incredible experience all on its own with attractions such as the Dubai Aquarium, a virtual reality park, and a waterfall that runs through the mall. You could spend hours at this mall easily!
Then in the evening, take a break from shopping to watch the Dubai Fountain Show! This is one of the best things to do in Dubai at night! The fountains dance to music while the Burj Khalifa lights up in the background!
3. Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner
The Desert Safari is considered one of the most exhilarating and unique experiences for adventure seekers in Dubai. On this experience, you will go dune bashing in the back seat of a 4×4 vehicle, ride camels, make stops for photos, ride quads, and try sandboarding. Most tours finish in a traditional desert camp where there are live performances and a BBQ dinner.
No matter if you choose a morning, evening, or overnight safari, this will certainly be one of your unforgettable adventures when searching for new and best things to do in Dubai. Get the best deals on your Desert Safari with BBQ dinner.
4. Marina Dhows Cruise
If you’d like some relaxing things to do in Dubai, consider taking a Marina dhow cruise. The wooden dhows cruise smoothly along the sparkling Dubai Marina and include an extensive buffet dinner and live entertainment.
Of all the best things to do in Dubai during the evening, this is one of the most romantic for couples and families.
5. A Day at Atlantis the Palm
Attractions at Atlantis the Palm make it an exciting place to take the family to enjoy! Some fabulous things are Aquaventure Waterpark since it has exciting rides and also the second-longest lazy river (over 2.5 kilometres). The Lost Chambers Aquarium has an underwater experience with 1000s of different types of sea life and fish. These attractions were rated as the best things to do in Dubai for all ages.
6. The Museum of the Future
The Museum of the Future is unique because it’s a 21st-century museum; there are no historical things to see. Instead the museum has only futuristic possibilities to explore, through interactive and immersive exhibits. People have said that the museum is on the list of the best things to do in Dubai and a must-see landmark. The building itself is an oval-shaped venue covered with Arabic symbols, making it one of the most spectacular buildings in the world.
7. Skydiving in Dubai
Skydiving in Dubai is an incredible experience and certainly one of the best things to do in Dubai for adrenaline junkies. When you jump from thousands of feet in the air, you will get to see amazing aerial views of Palm Jumeirah and the Dubai skyline as you plummet to earth, then enjoy a gentle descent with your parachute. Tandem skydiving is operated by experienced professionals, thus making it safe, easy and appropriate for beginners. Skydiving is simply one of those experiences that will be talked about as one of the most memorable adventures. So what’s stopping you from grabbing incredible skydiving deals in Dubai?
8. Ski Dubai – A Winter Wonderland in the Heart of the Desert
Ski Dubai, located inside the Mall of the Emirates, is one of the coolest places to ski in the world! If you love winter sports but don’t want to leave Dubai, Ski Dubai is the perfect place to go! Whether you’re skiing, snowboarding, tubing, or visiting the penguins, Ski Dubai is one of the best things to do in Dubai with kids and the whole family! You never know what to expect while you’re there!
9. The Dubai Frame
One of the coolest things to check out in Dubai is the Dubai Frame. This structure has been created to show you what Old Dubai and New Dubai look like at the same time, from the same location. Visitors love the glass-bottom walkway on top!
Many photography enthusiasts think of the Dubai Frame as one of the top attractions to photograph in Dubai.
10. Discover The Global Village
The Global Village is an attraction that runs from October through to April every year. At the Global Village, you’ll find pavilions representing over 90 countries and an array of cultural experiences, food, entertainment, shows, carnival rides, and shopping.
If you’re a family with children looking for the best things to do in Dubai during the winter season, check out the Global Village.
11. Bluewaters Island and Ain Dubai
Bluewaters Island is a lively and enjoyable place to explore on the waterfront, with many restaurants, beach clubs, cafes, walking paths, etc. Also located on Bluewaters Island is Ain Dubai, a massive Ferris wheel, and although it has been closed at times, Bluewaters Island continues to be a popular destination because of its great atmosphere and food!
Final Thoughts:
The metropolis of Dubai offers a blend of modern and historical attractions. In addition to its impressive skyscrapers, many water-based recreational opportunities and areas of historical significance, there continue to be increasing numbers of things to see and do each year in Dubai. So whether this is your first holiday or a repeat visit, these attractions will create an unforgettable experience for all and this list provides you a short
With exclusive travel offers, limited-season experiences, and high-demand attractions, this is the ideal time to plan your next journey. Dubai’s most sought-after experiences often book out early, and you can save up to 25% on hotels, flight deals, and festive experiences—this is your moment to plan a December getaway, making early planning essential for a seamless holiday.
For deeper inspiration, explore our The Best Christmas Hotels in London for expert recommendations and must-visit attractions. And if winter escapes are on your radar, our 9 Best Things to Do in Atlanta opens the door to magical seasonal destinations and unforgettable festive experiences worldwide.
