Top attractions, spas, restaurants and more for your Dubai bucket list
If you’re looking for the best things to do Dubai, we have you covered. There are so many fantastic things to do and places in Dubai – from stunning beaches to super rooftop bars, massive world-class nightclubs to desert escapes. And to make sure you don’t miss a single one, we’ve rounded up more than 100 of the very best things to do and best places to visit in Dubai right here.
We bring you Dubai’s best outdoor activities, water sports, cinema experiences, ladies’ nights, brunches, happy hours, award-winning restaurants, family-friendly fun, spa days, all the top places to visit in Dubai and more.
It’s time to get out there and start ticking all these awesome things to do in Dubai off your places to visit in Dubai bucket list.
Best things to do in Dubai: Attractions
Cruise past The Dubai Fountain
For the ultimate up-close experience with Burj Khalifa, take a cruise on the lake. Attractions also include pedalos, a floating garden, kayaks and water bikes.
Dubai Fountain, Dubai Mall, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, www.thedubaimall.com (800 28843867).
Dress up and visit Burj Al Arab
You’ll need a reservation just to get into this hotel, so book a drink at Gilt, a day on the infinity pool terrace or afternoon tea in style. Wear your best garb.
Burj Al Arab, Umm Suqeim (04 301 7777).
Experience the rain in the rainforest at The Green Planet
Missing wildlife? What about the rain? Fancy a trip to the jungle? A tropical thunderstorm happens at 1pm and 5pm every day now at The Green Planet.
The Green Planet, City Walk, Al Safa Street, www.thegreenplanetdubai.com (800 637227).
Experience the underwater world, 60-metres-below
For the closest experience, you can get to visiting another world, head to Deep Dive Dubai where you can fully immerse yourself in the underwater world. The world-record breaking diving facility is equipped with a 60-metre-deep pool and sunken city for divers of all levels to explore. There are freediving, snorkelling and scuba diving experiences and courses available, led by a team of international diving professionals and supported by the latest equipment, technology and facilities.
From Dhs400. Wed-Sun, noon-8pm. Nad Al Sheba, deepdivedubai.com.
Explore Palm Jumeirah
An epic example of engineering ingenuity, this artificial archipelago is truly a modern wonder to behold. Take a stroll around the boardwalk and enjoy the sights.
Palm Jumeirah.
Get the adrenaline pumping from 220m up
Fancy yourself as a bit of a thrill-seeker? If so then the Sky Views Dubai observation deck at Address Sky View Hotel is one must-do to cross off of your Dubai bucket list. From 220m up you can traipse across the 46m long glass walk, zip down the see-through slide and harness-up to walk along the open-air viewing area. If you’re feeling really brave you can even leap across the precipice, safe in the knowledge that your harness will do its thing.
Dhs55 (Edge Walk Dhs699) Open daily 10am-10pm. Address Sky View Hotel, Downtown Dubai.
Go up Dubai’s Burj Khalifa
It’s the tallest building in the world with a staggering 160 floors and looms at 828 metres high. Take a trip to the 148th floor for observation deck, At The Top.
Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, www.burjkhalifa.ae.
Have a day out at La Mer
If you have a penchant for top grub by the beach, surfside shopping or lazing the day away on the sands then you can’t really go wrong at La Mer.
La Mer, Jumeriah 1 (800 637 227).
Hop on a Dubai sightseeing bus tour
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor to Dubai, hop aboard a sightseeing bus to make your way around the city without driving.
Daily, call for timings. Various locations, www.bigbustours.com (04 3407709). www.citysightseeing-dubai.com (04 316 7506).
Meander among the flowers at Dubai Miracle Garden
It’s time to stop and smell the roses, literally. The 72,000sq m Miracle Garden has more than 150 million flowers for you to admire.
Al Barsha South, Dubailand, www.dubaimiraclegarden.com (04 422 8902).
See butterflies at Dubai Butterfly Garden
Right next door to the Miracle Garden is the Butterfly Garden, which is home to more than 15,000 butterflies of more than 50 different varieties, all fluttering around.
Al Barsha South, dubaibutterflygarden.com.
Sip and watch at Cinemacity
Overdue a trip to the pictures? For a VIP viewing experience then check out Cinemacity at Address Fountain View, right by Dubai Mall. The licensed cinema offers the works with its dine-in service with a selection of à la carte menu of Japanese fusion dishes, brought straight to your super-cosy recliner seat via the butler service.
Dhs60 (club class seats), Dhs100 (full reclining VIP seats with dine-in service). Cinemacity, Fountain Views, Downtown Dubai, cinemacity.ae (04 770 0111).
Stroll along The Beach
The Walk and neighbouring al fresco district The Beach at Dubai’s JBR were designed to make the most of strolls. People watching is prime here, plus there are loads of things to eat – don’t miss the Turkish ice cream.
The Beach, JBR, www.thebeach.ae (04 3173999).
Take a trip across Dubai Creek
Hop on an abra, hand over a dirham and enjoy a smooth sail across the Creek. It’s a short trip to the other side, but it’ll take you back to everything Dubai is really about.
Dhs1. Dubai Creek.
Travel the world at Dubai’s Global Village
There are 78 countries represented at this huge outdoor attraction as well as fairground fun, international food, shows, shops and even an oddities museum.
Global Village, Exit 37, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed road, www.globalvillage.ae (04 3624114).
Jump out of a plane at Skydive Dubai
Ever fancied jumping out of a plane at speeds of 120mph over a man-made island? Well why not? Skydive Dubai is one for the braver out there. Don’t look down (gulp).
Dhs1,699 (tandem skydive). Skydive Dubai, Dubai Marina, www.skydivedubai.ae
Ride the roller coasters at IMG Worlds of Adventure
Dubai’s 1.5-million-square-foot IMG Worlds of Adventure is the biggest indoor theme park on the planet, and it’s home to some pretty epic rides. See how we got on when we visited at youtube.com/timeoutgcc.
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Dubailand, www.imgworlds.com (04 403 8888).
Splash around at a waterpark
Wild Wadi’s main attraction, Jumeirah Sceirah tower has two 32 metre-high tandem slides which will see you plummet at a speed of 80km/h. Or pay a visit to Aquaventure to try the Leap of Faith slide, which hurtles you through a glass tunnel surrounded by sharks.
Jumeirah Beach Road (04 348 4444); Atlantis The Palm (04 426 0000).
Speed around the track at eKart Dubai Mall
Fancy racing your mates on a rooftop overlooking Burj Khalifa? You can now do just that, as EKart Zabeel has an outdoor track in Downtown Dubai for the winter.
The Dubai Mall Zabeel, Downtown Dubai, www.ekartzabeel.ae.
Swim with sharks in Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Gather your courage and slip into the deep blue sea (kind of) to swim with sharks at this cool attraction in the massive shopping mall.
Dubai Aquarium, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, www.thedubaiaquarium.com (800 382246255).
Tackle the slopes at Ski Dubai
Just because you’re in the desert doesn’t mean that you won’t see snow. Granted you won’t see it outside – but you’ll get plenty of it at Ski Dubai. Learn to ski, chill out (literally) with the penguins or sip a hot chocolate at the snow cinema.
Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, Barsha, www.skidxb.com (800386).
Take a snap of Dubai from the Dubai Frame
This cool vantage point at Zabeel Park allows visitors with a head for heights to see the city’s past, present and future in a one-hour tour with unique views of ‘old’ and ‘new’ Dubai from a 150-metre-high sky glass bridge. Don’t forget your camera phone as you’ll want to capture the super views.
Zabeel Park, www.thedubaiframe.com (800900).
Zip over the top of Dubai Marina on the XLine
XLine zip line offers thrill seekers the chance to zoom over the glistening waters of Dubai Marina at speeds of up to 80 kilometres per hour at an incline of 16 degrees, headfirst in true Superman-style. It’s one of the best ways to see the city, while getting your adrenaline fix, too.
Dubai Marina, www.xdubai.com/xline.
Best things to do in Dubai: Culture
Be amazed by La Perled
Acrobatics, water stunts, motorbikes and more – this is a live theatre spectacle that must be seen at least once.
La Perle by Dragone, Al Habtoor City, www.laperle.com (04 4370001).
Buy fresh fish at the Waterfront Market
Get ready to cook yourself a feast after you pick up the freshest catch at this traditional fish market in Deira.
Deira, www.waterfrontmarket.ae.
Buy jewels at Dubai Gold Souk
If you’re in the market for gold rings, chains, blocks or even tie pins it is an essential visit. Even if you’re not haggling / investing it is a sight that defies Instagram filters.
Gold Souk, Deira.
Check out the outdoor Ripe Market
If you have a few hours to meander, drift, saunter and stroll there is no finer place than at Dubai’s greatest community market, Ripe Market, to shop and pick up some bargains.
Open Sat 9am-7pm; Sun 10am-7pm. Academy Park, Umm Suqeim, www.ripeme.com (055 5431282).
Catch a film in style at Cinema Akil
Indie spot Cinema Akil shows a variety of films and you should absolutely order a cup of chai from Project Chaiwala to sip while you watch.
Warehouse 68, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz 1, www.cinemaakil.com (058 524 6362).
Check out the art galleries at Al Quoz
Dubai’s artiest area is Al Quoz, and there are loads of exhibitions to check out. Dubai’s artsy hub also has workshops, plus, there are loads of cool coffee shops to check out. We recommend Nightjar, one of Time Out Market Dubai’s superstar vendors, too.
Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, www.alserkalavenue.ae (04 3333464).
Discover history at Dubai Museum
Have a spare Dhs3 in your pocket? Inside the walls of Dubai’s Al Fahidi Fort in Old Dubai is a brilliant tribute to Dubai’s past. The historic building is home to a wide variety of life-size dioramas that depict Emirati life from a bygone era.
Al Fahidi Historical District, Bur Dubai (04 353 1862).
Do a heritage tour of Al Fahidi with SMCCU
Learn about the UAE as you wander through Old Dubai on a heritage tour. Then relax with a Q&A over dates and a coffee.
Sat, 9am. Sun, Thu & Thu 10.30am. 90 minutes. Al Fahidi, Bur Dubai, www.cultures.ae.
Do a sustainable mountain and desert safari with Platinum Heritage
You’re in the desert – why not explore it properly? Head out with this cool company who will give you the low-down on the environment while you explore the dunes.
www.platinum-heritage.com.
Explore Souk Madinat Jumeirah
This mall is modelled on an ancient Souk, and if you don’t get lost at least once you’re winning. Take visitors to show off the views.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, www.jumeirah.com (04 366 8888).
Haggle at Dubai gold and textile souks
Retail therapy in Dubai doesn’t necessarily mean heading to one of the (many) sprawling malls. For a more traditional experience, head down to one of the many souks at the Creek.
Dubai Creek, Deira.
Immerse yourself in art at TODA
The Theatre of Digital Art is the first of its kind in Dubai, offering art aficionados in the UAE the chance to experience masterpieces via digital shows accompanied by stunning music, visual effects and surround sound.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, www.toda.ae.
Nip down the road to Sharjah
Sharjah has loads of art an culture, but a recent highlight is the reopening of the The Flying Saucer. The iconic structure was constructed in the mid-1970s and for the past two years has been undergoing a major restoration by Sharjah Art Foundation to reflect its original architecture. It now houses exhibitions and an arts space.
www.sharjahart.org.
See a show at Dubai Opera
Since opening in 2016 this stunning dhow-shaped building has been a hub for theatre, musicals, operas, ballet and comedians. Early 2022 highlights include Chicago and Jack Dee, setting the tone for the A-list acts to come.
Dubai Opera, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai www.dubaiopera.com (04 440 8888).
Sniffing out a bargain at the Spice Souk
Roaming through the narrow alleyways, packed full of bags of vibrantly coloured spices, you’ll be bowled over by the warming scents of the spices.
Baniyas Street, Deira.
Visit Jumeirah Mosque
One of only a handful of mosques in the country open to non-Muslims, a visit here is an engaging cultural experience designed to inform and educate about Islam and Emirati culture. Modest dress is required.
Open Sat-Thu, 10am and 2pm. Jumeirah Mosque, Jumeirah Beach Road, www.jumeirahmosque.ae (04 3536666).
Visit Etihad Museum
Learn about the history of the UAE at this museum in Jumeirah. Covering 25,000 sqm it’s located in the same spot as Union House, where the constitution was signed in 1971.
Jumeirah, etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.gov.ae.
Walk along Al Seef
Al Seef on Bur Dubai side of the Creek is an area of Dubai steeped in history, with a huge amount of Emirati culture. It leans heavily on the contemporary elements of life in Dubai but also has a nostalgic twist. There are loads of coffee shops for a pit stop, too.
Al Seef, Bur Dubai, www.alseef.ae.
Watch camels race at Al Marmoom
A camel race might, at first, seem an ungainly animal, but they’re actually far more graceful than that. The desert-dwelling beasts can reach speeds of up to 65kmh and races are every bit as entertaining as you imagine.
Opening dates and times vary. Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack, Al Ain Road (055 676 0006).
Watch the horse racing at Meydan
Whether you love the sport or just a jolly good day out, there’s heaps to do at Meydan Racecourse. The Dubai World Cup Carnival starts on January 14 and runs through to the big day for the Dubai World Cup on March 26, so there’s plenty of chance to visit.
Meydan Racecourse, Nad Al Sheba, www.dubairacingclub.com.
Best things to do in Dubai: Dining experiences and restaurants
Book dinner at the best restaurant in Dubai, Zuma
Zuma Dubai has won so many Time Out Dubai Restaurant Awards we’ve lost count.. Book now.
Gate Village 6, DIFC, www.zumarestaurant.com (04 425 5660).
Dine next to the turtles at Il Borro Tuscan Bistro
Visit the Time Out Dubai Restaurant of the Year 2021 for a superb meal and you’ll also see a couple of turtles gliding by when you sit outside.
Jumeirah Al Naseem, Umm Suqeim (04 275 2555).
Dine on a rooftop at folly by Nick & Scott
The rooftop of this excellent restaurant has stunning views, and the European dishes from this top duo are outstanding.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim (04 430 8535).
Chat to your private chef at Höseki
This will set you back a bit, but it’s worth it if you’re looking for something special. Seating just nine diners, you’ll have a private chef who will cook a special menu each day.
Bvlgari Hotel & Resorts, Jumeirah (04 777 5555).
Dine at Al Dawaar revolving restaurant
Head for heights? Dubai’s only revolving restaurant circles through 360 degrees of panoramic splendour.
Al Dawaar, Hyatt Regency Dubai, Naif, www.hyatt.com (04 209 6914).
Dinner dates with Burj Khalifa backdrop at Thiptara
With a front-row seat to The Dubai Fountain, you couldn’t be any closer to the awesome dancing waters than at Thiptara.
Palace Downtown Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard (04 888 3444).
Eat a gold burrata at FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai
Always wanted to eat a gold burrata? Probably not, but now you can. The cheese comes with truffle, and fully coated in edible 22-karat gold at Cinque.
Dhs200. Cinque, FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai (04 455 9989).
Dig into fondue at an après-ski bar
Whether it’s après ski or après shop, what better way to enjoy a spot of post-snow fun than with a pot of bubbling, molten Swiss cheese? (The Alps, possibly, but as an alternative this is très bon.)
Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, Barsha, www.skidxb.com (800386).
Dine on the Creek with Bateaux Dubai
Dubai Creek at night is magical. And this fancy boat trip is a top way to see it.
Bateux Dubai, Al Seef Street, Bur Dubai, www.jaresortshotels.com (04 3366768).
Dine in the desert at Al Hadheera
With live camel and horse shows, falconry and even fireworks there’s a touch (a lot) of theatre to go with your meal.
Prices vary. Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa, Al Qudra (04 809 6194).
Eat from a food truck at Last Exit
When you can’t decide which fancy restaurant to go to, ditch the plans and take the family to a food truck park.
Last Exit, Sheikh Zayed Road, www.lastexit.ae (04 3173999).
Enjoy Dubai’s Best Buffet Brunch
What better way to experience brunch culture than at the best? Brasserie 2.0 is Time Out Dubai’s Best Buffet Brunch 2020 and it really is a must-try, especially if you love seafood.
Dhs400 (soft drinks), Dhs550 (house beverages). Fri 1.30pm-4.30pm. Le Royal Méridien Beach Resort & Spa, Dubai Marina (04 316 5550).
Get a head for heights with dinner in the Sky at JBR
Prepare to be strapped into a bucket chain and dine with your legs dangling 50m high above JBR. Gulp.
From Dhs499. Skydive Dubai, Dubai Marina (050 925 6341).
Have dinner underwater in Dubai
Well, not literally, but it’s as close as you’ll get. Ossiano has tables looking out into Atlantis The Palm’s famous aquarium so you can watch the fish, while, erhm, eating fish.
Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah (04 426 2626).
Let the good times roll at SushiSamba
Popular London sushi export, SushiSamba has arrived in Dubai. Its open kitchen, complete with a sushi counter, robata grill and Tsukiji market, plates up a selection of Japanese-Brazilian-Peruvian dishes. SushiSamba also serves up epic views from its 51st-floor location in the Palm Tower that maki for a pretty special evening.
Open Sun-Wed, 6pm-2am. Thu-Sat, 6pm-3am. Level 51, St. Regis, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, sushisamba.com/locations/dubai (04 582 1555).
See culinary theatrics at Carnival by Trèsind
With innovative dishes and eclectic déco, the sense of playfulness at this cool spot extends to the food, while mixologists produce drinks with a heavy slice of theatrics.
Burj Daman Building, DIFC (052 242 4262).
Have sundowners in the world’s tallest building
Shoot your way up to the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa and enjoy afternoon tea, dinner or sundowners and snacks with a view at At.mosphere.
Atmosphere, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, www.atmosphereburjkhalifa.com (04 888 3828).
Try a camel burger at La Mer
Not tried camel yet? A burger is as good a way as any – especially this fully-loaded one.
Bareburger, La Mer, Jumeirah 1, www.bareburger.com (04 343 7110).
Try a proper Middle Eastern shawarma
We recently revealed that you voted shawarma as the most iconic dish in Dubai, so of course they should be on this list. Visit Allo Beirut for the top one.
Various locations including Hessa Street, www.allobeirutstreetfood.com.
Take afternoon tea on the QE2
Head to this regal vessel for sandwiches, scones and a touch of nostalgia.
Served Thu-Sat, 3pm-5pm. QE2, Mina Rashid, www.qe2.com (04 526 8888).
Watch the world’s largest fountain while dining at Chuan
Earlier this year The Palm Fountain opened at The Pointe, claiming a Guinness World Record for the world’s largest fountain. It runs every night from 7pm, so book into our best Chinese restaurant 2020 while you’re there.
The Pointe, Palm Jumeirah Dubai (04 564 3888).
Best things to do in Dubai: Nightlife
Check out a ladies’ night in Dubai at STK JBR
Yes, ladies’ nights a huge thing in Dubai. Every night of the week, there are bars across the city serving up free drinks and bargain dinner deals for the fairer gender. STK Dubai is a happening steakhouse in JBR that’s is part dining room, part party. Dinner here is a lively affair, with dancing, fireworks, live entertainment and more. It can get pretty pricey, too, which is why its ladies’ night is so marvellous. Expect five free drinks during the first sitting, three free drinks during the second sitting (or just by the bar) plus two courses for Dhs199, or three courses for Dhs239. It’s fun, it’s upbeat and it’s one to get dressed up for. Take your mates, take your mum, take visitors – just go.
Free. Tue 7pm-1am. Rixos Premium Dubai, The Walk, JBR (04 323 0061).
Find a taste of Ireland one of Dubai’s best pubs The Irish Village
A Dubai institution, going strong for more than two decades, The Irish Village and its enduring presence continues to charm hordes of expats every week. The Irish Village’s large garden and homely feel make it a wonderfully low-key favourite among residents. With regular live music, good food and a great vibe, The Irish Village should be your default pub option.
Open daily 11am-1am. Garhoud (04 282 4750).
Go bowling in the world’s highest bowling alley
Every bone in our body knows that there is absolutely no benefit to a bowling alley being so high up. It is EXACTLY the same as a bowling alley on ground level, but we can’t help wanting to head to Dubai’s The 44 bar for a bit of sport. This is just cooler. The same goes for the pool tables, dart boards, pinball machine and screens showing live sport. Hip and enjoyable. For more top bowling alleys in Dubai click here.
Open Sat-Thu, noon-2am; Fri, 11am-2am. The 44, Hilton Dubai, Al Habtoor City, www.facebook.com/the44dubai (054 581 1758).
Listen to live music at Q’s Bar & Lounge
As far as we’re concerned there’s absolutely nothing to stop you falling head over heels in love with this utterly charming jazz bar in Dubai’s Palazzo Versace hotel, that needs to be viewed as up there with the world’s very best. And what else would you possibly expect, what with Q’s Bar & Lounge being the first live music bar opened by the legendary composer, producer, conductor and artist that is Quincy Jones? There’s live music five nights a week, international acts hand-picked by the great man himself for long-term residencies at this gorgeous, dark, intimate jazz bar. For more live music in Dubai, click here.
Show times vary. Open Tue-Sat 7pm-2am. Palazzo Versace Dubai, Al Jaddaf (04 556 8865).
Live sets and sundowners
To turn the volume up on the good times then Soho Garden Palm Jumeirah is just the ticket. This happening hangout sits at the rooftop of Nakheel Mall and serves views of the Palm and beyond. Soho Garden Palm Jumeirah hosts an exciting array of nightlife offerings, including sundowners, live music performances and DJ sets. There’s also Soho Garden Meydan servicing the downtown Dubai crowd.
Open 5pm-3am daily. Nakheel Mall Palm Jumeirah, Rooftop West, Dubai, sohogardendxb.com (054 233 5555).
Sip sunset drinks at The Penthouse
The Penthouse at FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai is one of the best bars in town. Big DJ nights every Thursday ease into a chilled-out Saturday ladies’ day poolside brunch. The Penthouse’s bar food is excellent and there’s a fantastic ladies’ night on a Tuesday when you’ll get three free drinks. But it’s all about those views at this rooftop bar – the most visitor-friendly vistas in Dubai, which help us unleash our inner tourist, too. One of the best places to visit in Dubai with guests, the views are unrivalled and the venue is fantastically chic. Go, now.
Open Sat-Wed 4pm-3am, Thu-Fri 4pm-4am. FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai (052 900 4868).
Sunbathe and party on the beach at Nikki Beach
Book a cabana or day bed at the best beach club in Dubai, Nikki Beach, (we gave it a trophy and everything) and you’re making a promise to yourselves: ‘We’re having a great time and we don’t care who knows it’. You’ll be joined by Dubai’s glamour set at the sleek, shiny and world-famous import. There’s also a top party brunch every Saturday, too. There are super views out to sea at this beach club too, making for a romantic backdrop for sundowners at Caribbean restaurant Key West, just a short jaunt up the sands. For Dubai’s best beaches click here. For more Dubai beach clubs, click here.
Open daily, 11am-8pm. Nikki Beach Dubai, Dubai Pearl, Pearl Jumeirah, www.nikkibeach.com (04 376 6162).
Best things to do in Dubai: Off the beaten track – outdoors and more
Admire the wildlife at Ras Al Khor Sanctuary
You can see a different side to Dubai at Ras Al Khor’s 6.2sqkm sanctuary. Best known for being home to flamingos, you can also spy herons, cormorants, sandpipers, osprey and much more. Bring the binoculars.
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, Ras Al Khor, www.rasalkhorwildlife.ae (800900).
Take a stroll down Hindi Lane
This area has a strong community feel and you’ll find a hindi temple too. It’s reached through the vibrant and colourful “Hindi Lane”. Non-hindus are allowed in, but you must remove your shoes.
Bur Dubai.
Discover Indian street food in Karama
This bustling area of the city is a haven for authentic street eats. One of the top picks is O’Pao for its innovative sliders – don’t miss the O’Pao cheese burst version.
Karama, www.opaodxb.com.
Dig into seafood from the table at Dampa Seafood Grill
The concept is simple – you’ll get a load of food dumped straight on your table and you attack it with your hands. Dig into buckets of fresh seafood tossed in delicious spices at this budget spot in Deira.
Deira (04 299 0884).
Get new threads made in Satwa
Have a dress you love that you want in another colour? Need a suit for a wedding? Head to Satwa for any number of tailors who can create exactly what you want.
Satwa.
Have an adventure in Hatta
Beyond the desert and into the mountains lay memorable experiences for adventurous types. Whether it is in the shape of a 350m zip-line adrenaline ride, kayak in the serene waters of Hatta, side-by-side horse riding excursions or hiking and mountain bike treks this really is a hub for adventurous types. Book yourself one of the 13 shiny metal American-style airstream trailers at Hatta Sedr Trailers Resort, too.
Hatta Wadi Hub, Hatta, www.visithatta.com (800 637227).
Learn to dive at Al Boom Dubai
Always wanted to learn to dive? You can do that right here in Dubai. PADI dive training teaches the importance of diving in pairs and will get you ready to explore the open water. Watch out for cool looking fish.
Al Boom Dubai, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 1, www.alboomdiving.com, (04 3422993).
Have a romantic stroll at Dubai Love Lakes
This has romance written all over it, so cynics you might want to skip this one. These two intertwined heart-shaped manmade lakes set up near Al Qudra Lakes are hugely popular. The site even has trees planted that spell out the word “love”. All together now, “ahhh”.
Al Qudra
Hike at Wadi Helo
Pull on your hiking boots, grab your walking buddy and hop in the car to head to this wadi just outside Dubai in Sharjah. It’s the perfect weather to enjoy nature, so make the most of it and get back to nature.
Sharjah.
Horse ride in the desert
There are few things more adventurous than riding through the desert. Trot, walk or gallop, depending on your skills, and enjoy the amazing scenery. Giddy up.
Bab Al Shams, Al Qudra, www.babalshams.com.
Picnic at Secret Beach
Pack up your cool box, make the sandwiches, throw a blanket in the car and gather the gang for a perfect picnic. This secluded beach is an ideal place to get away from it all and enjoy the winter sun.
Al Sufouh.
Sand board on the dunes
Ready for some exercise? Give this super-cool sport that’s like snowboarding on the sand a whirl. The red dunes are where the gnarliest action can be found. Yes, we did use the word ‘gnarliest’.
oscarknighttours.com.
Paddle a kayak on the Palm
Is it arm day? Skip the gym and hop into a kayak for some fun on the water. And if you head to this swish beachside spot on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah we’d suggest grabbing lunch at The Beach House, too.
Open daily. Call for timings. Anantara Palm The Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, www.anantara.com (04 5678888).
See the desert from a hot air balloon
Fancy taking to the skies? For a bucket list adventure, book this. Balloon Adventures Dubai runs morning excursions where you’ll float serenely over the desert – 4,000m above the ground. Depending on your head for heights, this may or may not be terrifying, but it’s sure to be exhilarating.
Pick up from 4am across Dubai www.balloon-adventures.com
See stunning street art on 18B street
Back in 2016, practically overnight and without any social media hype, many of the area’s longstanding and traditional buildings were given a fresh and colourful new coat of paint. Epic murals line the buildings, with colossal sharks, falcons, lions and even guitars taking a starring role.
18B Street, Karama.
Try dune buggying
Motorbikes, quad bikes and, our favourite, buggies can be hired for those that want to try out riding over for themselves. Harder than it looks to master, but easier than you may think to learn, it’s a far cry from a gentle camel ride.
MX Dubai, Al Ain Road, near Skydive Dubai, www.mxdubai.com (055 262 2707).
Visit Hatta Heritage museum
If you’re into hiking there are 32.6km of hiking routes – which you can do for free or with a guide. There are several levels, which are colour coded from green to black, for beginners to experienced hikers and off-road runners. While you’re there stop by Hatta Heritage Village for spot of culture, with craft shops, heritage centre and Emirati restaurant, Al Hajarain.
visithatta.com/en.
Best things to do in Dubai: Spa, sports and wellbeing
Chill out at the snow room at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray Talise Ottoman Spa
We’re dreaming of a white… room full of snow. If you’re missing out on waking up to a windowsill filled with icy flakes of joy, rather than beaming sun, The Talise Ottoman Spa at Dubai’s Jumeirah Zabeel Saray on Palm Jumeirah has got you covered. The room is beneficial for pain receptors as well as relaxing and brightening your mood, plus it’s always a fun novelty to see snow in a desert climate.
Prices vary. Open daily 10am-9.30pm. Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Palm Jumeirah (04 453 0000).
Go cycling at Al Qudra Cycle Track
Drive out past Dubai’s Arabian Ranches and you’ll see a cycling path running alongside the road to your left. Al Qudra cycling track is 86km with a 50km loop, that will put your biking (and endurance) skills to the test. You can rent a bike, helmet and lights at Trek UAE, and there’s a Last Exit food truck park for a pit stop. Access to the bike track is free, and you’ll enjoy views of the desert dunes (watch out for gazelles). All levels are welcome, but expect to spend up to three hours completing the track, which is most popular on weekend mornings.
Free. Al Qudra Road (no number).
Play golf on a championship course
Following in the footsteps of greatness is as close to sporting excellence many of us will ever get. So, the opportunity to play on the same course as the world’s greatest golfers is enough to make amateur players to reach for the balls and get their niblick out. The Earth Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates is one of several championship courses in Dubai to try.
Call for tee times. Jumeirah Golf Estates, Green Community, www.dubaigolf.com (04 818 2000).
Play a round of night golf at Emirates Golf Club
Who wants to stroll around a golf course during the day anyway? If you’ve always felt like the way to improve a round is to play under floodlights, we have good news for you, as several courses in the UAE offer the option to play at night. During the summer it’s especially handy, as it’s pretty much unbearable out there in soaring temperatures and humidity. But it also means that those of us with nine to five jobs can get out on the course during the week without a ludicrously early start or taking the day off. It kind of feels more acceptable to head to the 19th hole at 8pm as well.
Prices and times vary. Emirates Golf Club, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai (04 417 9842).
Practise full moon yoga at Talise Madinat
The full moon yoga at Talise Madinat at Dubai’s famous Jumeirah Al Qasr hotel takes place on the beach so you can lose yourself to the sound of gentle waves along with smooth classical music. There’s also a stunning view of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. The yoga guru will guide you through an hour of yoga intended to unite your body and mind and take you on a journey of self-discovery. At best you’ll learn you have secret inner powers, at worst, you’ll have a nice chill out and stretch by the water’s edge. For more yoga in Dubai, click here.
Dates and prices vary. Jumeirah Al Qasr, Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim (04 366 6818).
Relax with a couples’ massage at at Amara Spa
This is the ultimate couples’ package to get you and your fella/lady in tip-top condition. The experience at Park Hyatt Dubai’s Amara Spa kicks off with a rose petal hand and foot ritual in the privacy of a lavish garden. From there you’ll be scrubbed down with coffee and cardamom before being rolled up in a sandalwood and rosewater body wrap to silken your skin. After that you’ll be given a nice oily massage and a Thai body stretch to loosen to up a bit before an aromatic facial to polish it all off.
Park Hyatt Dubai, Deira (04 602 1660).
Swing over to TopGolf
It is no secret that Dubai loves its golf. Whether you are a self-appointed pro or a bang-average beginner, TopGolf is a super-fun place for all. With 90 climate-controlled hitting bays in a huge three-storey site, there’s more golf than you can swing a club at. The licensed venue also serves up a selection of food and beverages to graze on. Be it with friends, family or colleagues, partaking in some driving range antics is guaranteed to bring you together.
Prices vary. Open Mon-Thu, 10am-1am. Fri, 10am-2am. Sat, 9am-1am. Sun, 9am-1am. Emirates Golf Club, Sheikh Zayed Road, www.topgolfdubai.ae (04 371 9999).
Take in views of the Palm from the world’s highest infinity pool
For one of Dubai’s ultimate pool days, look no further than AURA Skypool. There are three options available: a morning session to set your day up in the best possible way, an evening session to take in all those incredible sunset hues and an all-day session so you can enjoy both. There are some tasty Pan-Asian dishes on offer to graze on over the truly epic views. What’s more, you are guaranteed poolside snaps that your Instagram profile will thank you for.
From Dhs200 (morning session. From Dhs225 (evening session). From Dhs425 (all-day session). Open 7am-10pm daily. Nakheel Palm Tower, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, auraskypool.com.
Treat yourself in Guerlain Spa
Treating yourself doesn’t just mean a block of chocolate and a sit down, it means allowing yourself the occasional indulgence. Especially in Dubai. Like a luxurious signature treatment at the gorgeous One&Only The Palm’s Guerlain Spa. With just silky milk scrubs, personalised massages, scented baths, purifying wraps and relax. For Dubai’s best spas click here.
Guerlain Spa, One&Only The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, www.oneandonlyresorts.com (04 440 1040).
Try “underwater yoga” at The Lost Chambers Aquarium
Admittedly it’s not actually “underwater” yoga, but this is as close to it as you’re going to get – and it’s a lot easier than practising a cobra pose in a swimming pool. This fun, different (and oh-so-Dubai) yoga class is brought to you than none other than Dubai’s Atlantis The Palm. Make your way through a variety of hatha positions with the serene backdrop of multicoloured tropical fish, rays and sharks. Peaceful yet challenging, this is one class that’s worth dragging yourself out of bed early for (even on a Friday).
The Lost Chambers Aquarium, Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah (04 426 1040).
Yoga at The View
For an uplifting morning that you can be just a little smug about, head to The View for Vinyasa-style yoga at the observation deck on level 52 of The Palm Tower. As you watch the sunrise you’ll get to admire the 360-degree sprawling views of the Palm Jumeirah, the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s unmissable landmarks. Available on Tuesdays and Saturdays, the sessions hosted by Core Direction are well worth the early start.
Dhs149. Tue, 7am. Sat 8am. The View at The Palm, Palm Jumeirah theviewpalm.ae/events/yoga-at-the-view.
Best things to do in Dubai: Family activities
Bounce around at BOUNCE X Park
Bounce Dubai’s X Park is a brilliant way to find your inner Spider Man and jump around its many obstacles and pipes to work up a sweat, from its spider wall to its climbing wall. Kids can unleash all their pent up energy in this parkour zone. Plus, billed as one of the most effective exercises you can do, trampolining is a fun, low-impact workout that tones muscles and improves coordination. One of the best places to visit in Dubai with families.
Times vary. Al Quoz, www.bounce.ae.
Have fun at LEGOLAND
The LEGOLAND extravaganza at the city’s Dubai Parks and Resorts has successfully brought LEGO to life with more than 40 rides, shows and attractions on six themed lands crammed with 15,000 LEGO models and more than 60,000 LEGO bricks. Start off at the factory where you’ll get a guided tour and find out how LEGO bricks are made, before moving onto LEGO City where you can learn to drive an electric car and fly a LEGO plane. From there it’s onto the various kingdoms and imagination zones, before taking a turn on some rides at the Adventure zone before heading to Miniland, where kids will be able to marvel at 20 miles of LEGO bricks.
Dubai Parks And Resorts, Jebel Ali, Dubai, www.legoland.com/dubai (04 820 0000).
Jump around like a maniac at Air Maniax
An indoor aerial assault course with extra added high-tech fanciness to help record the exact moment you face-plant into a crash mat or bounce in to a ball pool. Air Maniax Dubai has different zones for different levels of bounce, zip, crash and wallop. The most fun you will have falling over and jumping in to things in the city.
Air Maniax, Al Quoz, www.airmaniax.com (04 348 8981).
Make a splash at LEGOland Water Park Dubai
Aqua fun for the whole family at Dubai’s LEGOLAND Waterpark where the rides are great, the water is cold and the sun always shines. The Joker Soaker kids’ area has the perfect amount of tumbling buckets of water, water shooters and slides, the lazy river is a great way to chill out and stay cool and with 20 water slides throughout the park to enjoy, there is no excuse not to get wet.
Dubai Parks And Resorts, Jebel Ali, Dubai, www.legoland.com/dubai (04 820 3123).
Play at Mattel Play! Town
A fun and colourful edutainment centre where loveable dinosaur Barney is a permanent fixture. Kids kids can meet Barney, go on an adventure with Thomas & Friends, be a hero with Fireman Sam, build their dream home with Bob the Builder and dance their little hearts out with Angelina Ballerina – and generally just have heaps of fun.
City Walk, playtowndubai.com.
Ride the waves at Wavehouse Dubai
Wavehouse brings together live music, gaming, bowling, dining and a wave machine all in one place. Whether you’re looking for bowling, drinks or surfing – it’s here at Atlantis The Palm. There’s a four-lane, ten-pin bowling alley awaits complete with visual 3D mapping projections (and super plush couches). Lanes can be hired from Dhs60 per person, per game from noon to 1am daily. There’s also the LEVELS arcade with more than 50 games including the world’s largest Pac Man. Fancy showing off your surfing skills? Check out the Waverider outside.
Prices and timings vary. The Avenues, Atlantis The Palm, atlantisthepalm.com (04 426 2000).
See the penguins at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Head to Penguin Cove at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo in Downtown Dubai, which is home to 16 Antarctic Gentoo penguins. The species is native to Antarctica, and visitors to the aquarium at The Dubai Mall can learn more about the fascinating birds. The Gentoo penguin is one of 18 known penguin species in the world and they can grow to 90cm tall and weigh up six kilos. They can dive to depths of up to 200m at 36kmph, and can remain underwater for up to seven minutes. Intrigued? Waddle along for some fun.
The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, www.thedubaiaquarium.com.
Soar in the air at Sky Zone
This Dubai family-fun site has more than 200 locations elsewhere in the world. Sky Zone Dubai is an indoor trampoline park where little adrenalin junkies can work their way around the various areas that include a foam zone, dodgeball arena and zip line. The youngest jumpers have their own toddler area to play in and there is a great café for parents where healthy snacks are on offer in addition to the usual pizza and chicken nuggets. The coffee isn’t half bad either.
Ibn Battuta Mall www.skyzone.ae (800 759 9663).
