Dubai is a city full of unforgettable experiences, offering a blend of adventure, luxury, and cultural charm. Whether you're seeking sky-high thrills or serene desert moments, here's your ultimate guide to the best things to do in Dubai.
Dubai has something for everyone from heart-pounding adventures to cultural experiences, serene moments, and family fun. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the city promises more than you expect, every single time. Dubai stands out as one of the top travel destinations in the world, and its proximity to India makes it a favored getaway for many Indian tourists looking to experience the charm of the Gulf region. Given the city's vast scale and diversity, it's perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed when deciding what to see and what to skip.
# Burj Khalifa & The Dubai MallThese two iconic landmarks are situated side by side in the heart of the city, making it convenient to explore both in one trip.
- Burj Khalifa: The tallest building in the world, offering jaw-dropping panoramic views from its observation decks.
- The Dubai Mall: The largest shopping mall globally in terms of floor space, featuring high-end retail stores, entertainment zones, and gourmet dining.
# Dubai Aquarium & Underwater ZooLocated on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall, this 10-million-litre aquarium is home to over 33,000 aquatic creatures from oceans, rivers, and lakes around the globe. It offers a unique opportunity to walk through a glass tunnel surrounded by marine life a surreal experience for all ages.
# Palm JumeirahThis awe-inspiring man-made island is shaped like a palm tree and features luxury hotels, upscale malls, and family-friendly theme parks. Divided into four main sections — the trunk, spine, fronds, and crescent — it’s connected to the mainland via a bridge and is best explored via monorail or boat tours.
# Dubai Miracle GardenSpread over 72,000 sq. meters, this is the world’s largest natural flower garden, boasting over 45 million blooming flowers in artistic designs. It’s a must-visit for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts. Note: The garden operates seasonally from mid-November to mid-May.
# Burj Al ArabLocated at the end of Jumeirah Road, this iconic sail-shaped luxury hotel is one of the most photographed landmarks in Dubai. While staying here may be reserved for the elite, visitors can still dine at one of its world-class restaurants — just be sure to make a reservation in advance.
# Dune BashingFor thrill-seekers, dune bashing is one of the top adventure activities in Dubai. Hop into a 4x4 SUV and speed across the golden sand dunes just outside the city — a family-friendly and adrenaline-filled experience that’s unforgettable.
# Sandboarding
Another fun desert activity, sandboarding is the desert’s answer to snowboarding. All you need to do is slide down the sandy slopes on a board while trying to keep your balance — exciting, easy to learn, and incredibly fun.
# Skiing at Ski DubaiYes, you can ski in the desert! Ski Dubai, located inside the Mall of the Emirates, offers a fully indoor winter wonderland with real snow, ski slopes, and even penguins. Open to everyone above 3 years of age, it’s a surreal contrast to Dubai’s desert climate.
# Skydiving Over Palm JumeirahOne of the most exhilarating experiences Dubai offers is skydiving from 13,000 feet, with stunning aerial views of the city, the Palm Jumeirah, and the Gulf. Participants must be at least 18 years old and weigh under 100 kg for safety reasons.
# Water Sports at Jumeirah BeachFor beach lovers and thrill enthusiasts, Jumeirah Beach is the go-to spot. Surrounded by luxury hotels, the beach offers various water sports like jet skiing, kite surfing, and paddleboarding, making it an ideal place to relax or get active by the sea.