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Dubai is a city that never fails to impress. From towering skyscrapers to vast desert landscapes, this vibrant metropolis offers an endless array of activities to suit every type of traveler. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a culture enthusiast, or someone who just wants to relax and take in the view, Dubai has something for you.
To help you plan your trip, we’ve curated a list of the top things to do in Dubai that you can easily book through GetYourGuide. From iconic landmarks to thrilling adventures, here’s your guide to experiencing the very best that Dubai has to offer.
No trip to Dubai is complete without a visit to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Standing at an impressive 828 meters, this architectural marvel offers panoramic views of the entire city, the Arabian Gulf, and beyond. The observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors provide an unparalleled experience, where you can see Dubai from the clouds and take in the beauty of the city’s skyline.
Why You Should Do It: The Burj Khalifa is an iconic Dubai landmark and offers jaw-dropping views that are perfect for both daytime sightseeing and sunset views.
Book with GetYourGuide: Skip the lines and reserve your tickets for At the Top and enjoy the views with a guided tour.
For a taste of adventure, there’s nothing like a Desert Safari. Just a short drive from the city, you can experience the rugged beauty of the Arabian Desert. Ride over the sand dunes in a 4x4 vehicle, try your hand at sandboarding, or take a leisurely camel ride. Most safaris also include a traditional dinner in a Bedouin-style camp with live entertainment, including belly dancing, tanoura dance, and music.
Why You Should Do It: A desert safari is one of the most popular and thrilling ways to experience the natural beauty of Dubai’s desert landscape.
Book with GetYourGuide: Choose from a range of desert safari experiences, including evening and VIP options for a more exclusive adventure.
If you love shopping, The Dubai Mall is a must-visit. This sprawling shopping complex is one of the largest in the world, offering over 1,200 retail stores, an indoor ice rink, a cinema, and the spectacular Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. It’s not just a shopping mall; it’s an entire entertainment destination. After indulging in some retail therapy, head to the Dubai Fountain just outside, where you can watch the world’s largest choreographed fountain show.
Why You Should Do It: Whether you’re after luxury brands or affordable fashion, Dubai Mall offers a shopping experience like no other. It’s also home to world-class attractions and dining options.
Book with GetYourGuide: Skip the lines at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo or book a guided shopping tour through the mall.
For a unique perspective of the city, hop aboard a traditional dhow cruise. These wooden boats have been used for centuries to navigate the waterways of Dubai. You can take a relaxing cruise around Dubai Creek, Dubai Marina, or the Palm Jumeirah, and enjoy stunning views of the city’s skyline, luxurious resorts, and modern landmarks. Many dhow cruises include dinner, making it a perfect option for a romantic evening.
Why You Should Do It: A dhow cruise offers a relaxing way to see Dubai from the water, with the chance to enjoy great food and stunning views of the skyline at night.
Book with GetYourGuide: Book a dhow dinner cruise for a memorable evening with live entertainment and a delicious buffet dinner.
To get a feel for old Dubai, take a walk through the Al Fahidi Historic District (formerly known as Al Bastakiya). This charming neighborhood, with its narrow alleys and traditional wind-tower houses, gives you a glimpse of what Dubai was like before the skyscrapers and modern developments. You can visit the Dubai Museum at Al Fahidi Fort to learn about Dubai’s transformation from a humble fishing village to the global metropolis it is today.
Why You Should Do It: Al Fahidi is perfect for history buffs and anyone who wants to learn about Dubai’s rich cultural heritage.
Book with GetYourGuide: Join a walking tour of the Al Fahidi Historic District for an immersive cultural experience with a knowledgeable local guide.
Dubai’s beaches are among the most beautiful in the world, and Jumeirah Beach is the perfect place to unwind. Located next to the iconic Burj Al Arab, the soft golden sands and clear blue waters make it a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, or enjoying watersports like jet skiing and parasailing. Many resorts in the area offer beach clubs with pool access, perfect for a full day of relaxation.
Why You Should Do It: Whether you want to swim, sunbathe, or try watersports, Jumeirah Beach is the perfect place to soak up the sun and take in the view of the Burj Al Arab.
Book with GetYourGuide: Book a beach day pass for exclusive access to some of Dubai’s most luxurious private beaches.
One of the most iconic attractions in Dubai, Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island that’s shaped like a palm tree and is home to some of the world’s most luxurious hotels and resorts. While there, you can visit Atlantis The Palm to enjoy the Aquaventure Waterpark, explore The Pointe for dining and shopping, or take a helicopter tour to see the palm-shaped island from the sky.
Why You Should Do It: The Palm Jumeirah is a testament to Dubai’s engineering prowess and offers plenty of things to do, from luxury resorts to waterparks and sightseeing.
Book with GetYourGuide: Book tickets for Aquaventure Waterpark, a helicopter tour, or explore the Atlantis resort with ease through GetYourGuide.
If you're visiting Dubai between November and April, the Dubai Miracle Garden is a must-see. This colorful paradise is home to over 50 million flowers, making it the world’s largest flower garden. You’ll find stunning floral sculptures, vibrant displays, and themed gardens throughout the park. It’s an Instagram-worthy spot that showcases Dubai’s creativity and love for the extraordinary.
Why You Should Do It: A unique and beautiful experience, perfect for nature lovers and photographers.
Book with GetYourGuide: Skip the lines and book your tickets to Dubai Miracle Garden for a peaceful escape into nature.
If you want to see Dubai like never before, a helicopter tour is the way to go. Fly over some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and the Burj Al Arab. From the sky, you’ll get a truly unique perspective of Dubai’s stunning architecture and sprawling desert landscape.
Why You Should Do It: A helicopter tour gives you an unparalleled view of Dubai’s breathtaking skyline and man-made wonders.
Book with GetYourGuide: Reserve your helicopter tour for a once-in-a-lifetime experience soaring over Dubai.
For those who appreciate the arts, a visit to the Dubai Opera is a must. Located in the heart of Downtown Dubai, this stunning venue hosts world-class performances, from opera and ballet to musicals and concerts. The Dubai Opera’s striking architecture is just as impressive as the shows it hosts, making it a cultural experience not to be missed.
Why You Should Do It: Enjoy an evening of world-class entertainment in one of the most beautiful performance spaces in the world.
Book with GetYourGuide: Book tickets to a Dubai Opera performance and experience Dubai’s cultural scene in style.
Dubai is a city of endless possibilities, where the old meets the new and where adventure and luxury go hand in hand. Whether you want to shop, explore, relax, or embark on an adrenaline-packed adventure, Dubai has something to offer every traveler. With GetYourGuide, you can easily book the best activities, tours, and experiences in Dubai, ensuring that your trip is as seamless and unforgettable as possible.