Dubai is perhaps the most fascinating city to visit in the world. This dazzling emirate of the UAE is known throughout the world as a city that does the impossible. The elegant fusion of modern architecture, a luxury lifestyle, and modest cultural traditions makes Dubai a unique destination for holidaymakers. The emirate, however, strives to remain an excellence destination and adds a few new attractions every year to its repertoire. This abundance of experiences can be a bit confusing for someone planning a Dubai vacation, leading them to wonder where to go and what to do. Among the array of shopping, dining, and recreational opportunities in the emirate, the following Dubai experiences are some of the best for your Dubai holiday checklist.
Burj Khalifa
As a Dubai visitor, you certainly will want to revel in the moment where you stand at the foot of the tallest tower on earth and marvel at its magnificent beauty. Burj Khalifa’s sheer splendour will make your jaws drop in awe. With its 828 metres sleek structure, the Burj Khalifa is an iconic landmark in Dubai Downtown, representing the very best of modern architecture and one of Dubai's most impressive feats till date. When you are in Dubai, there can be no comparison to the view you see from Burj Khalifa’s top observatory deck. It is best to visit in the evening to view the spectacular views of the city from above, as well as to witness the dazzling illuminations of the Burj Khalifa Dubai. You can also see the sunset twice in one day here - once from the ground level and the second time by taking a high-speed elevator after the first view, and watching the sunset on the horizon from the highest observatory in the world.
Global Village
Every year, the Global Village, a Dubai attraction that brings the world to one place, takes place from October till April, providing a unique experience for visitors. At 1,600,000 square metres, Global Village near Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E 311) is a celebration of food, culture, and fun from over 90 countries. It has been categorized as the biggest tourism and leisure attraction in the world that attracts over 5 million visitors each year. Shop, eat and be merry while you explore different countries in their dedicated pavilions. In a nutshell, it is a grand world carnival where you can view beautiful landmarks, witness cultural entertainment, shop for merchandise, and sample lip-smacking cuisine of different countries. It is the perfect way to familiarize yourself with your favourite destinations on your travel bucket list before you travel there yourself.
Xline Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is one of the newest modern addresses in the city. This artificial canal city offers the best of contemporary living and recreations along with chic shopping and dining options. Dubai Marina is a gorgeous waterfront surrounded by glistening skyscrapers and towers. The best way to take in these wonderful sights is by a ziplining experience at this attraction. Xline Dubai Marina is the longest urban ziplining experience in the world and is the perfect way to add a touch of adventure to a sightseeing tour. Taking in the sights of the modern skyline of Dubai from a height of 170 metres, zooming along the waterfront at a speed of 80km/h is an experience not to be missed.
Dubai Creek Dhow Cruise
As Dubai's emirate heritage comes to life along Dubai Creek, the area deserves a special visit. When visiting Dubai, a cruise on Dubai creek is a must-do experience. Take a traditional Arabian dhow tour along the shores of Dubai Creek to witness the old-world charms of Old Dubai in contrast to the glittering skyscrapers of modern Dubai. Evening cruises are the best way to enjoy the illuminated skyline and savour an Arabian dinner amid joyful Emirati entertainment.
Dubai Mall
A popular thing to do in Dubai for locals and visitors is shopping! Dubai Mall is the ultimate shopping destination in the emirate and is considered a paradise for shoppers. Although shopping is its primary purpose, this colossal shopping venue houses a multitude of attractions. You can venture into the underwater realm of colourful marine animals at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. At VR Park - the world's largest virtual reality park - you can leave behind the real world and experience a virtual world of fun, adventure, and thrill. The Dubai Mall is a comprehensive attraction that boasts more than 1200 retail shops, more than 100 restaurants, and some wonderful experiences for visitors to enjoy on a Dubai vacation.
Aquaventure water park
The Aquaventure water park is a cool and fun way to beat the heat in Dubai city. this water park is the largest in the UAE with over 30 thrilling water adventures, including some challenging, finger-numbing water slides that are not meant for the fainthearted. You can experience the thrill of high-speed water tube rides and slides that plunge you in near vertical drops. Water rides here are among the fastest, longest, steepest, and scariest in the world. In addition to this, Aquaventure water park has a lazy river ride, a private beach shore, and designated splash areas for children. In your list of Dubai Things to do, Aquaventure water park should be included since it is a great spot for the whole family to splash in cool waters and enjoy time together.
Desert Adventures
Take a drive to the edge of Dubai city. As you take a glimpse of the Dubai desert, the veil of modernity is lifted, revealing Dubai as a desert city. The Arabian desert has its own charm and provides an adventure experience like no other. A desert safari Dubai tour is the best way to get acquainted with Dubai’s vast desert. Sun-soaked golden dunes here beckon you to explore, and you can even enjoy desert activities such as dune bashing, quad biking, and sandboarding. There is nothing more magical than overnight desert safari Dubai, where you can take in the beautiful scenery alongside good food and Arabian folklore.
Ski Dubai
Do you know that you can go snow-skiing in Dubai? Head to Mall of the Emirates where Ski Dubai welcomes you to try your skills in skiing and other winter sports. Winter fun with loved ones in an enclosed climate-controlled snow arena is one of Ski Dubai's top draws for locals and visitors alike. You can ski, sled, and swerve down snow slopes, take a chairlift ride or go zorbing. Don’t forget to say hello to friendly penguins who love frolicking in the snow.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Explore the authentic side of Dubai beyond its glistening skyscrapers. Located on the banks of Dubai Creek, the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood preserves a piece of Dubai's past. Visitors can get a glimpse of how Dubai used to look and feel few decades back when the emirate was an ordinary fishing and trading village. Although we are familiar with the glamour of Dubai, the winding alleys and houses in this part of Dubai lack the glitz and are dominated by sand-coloured houses and towering windmills. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is a popular attraction for those seeking an insight into how Dubai looked before it developed into a modern, futuristic city.
Palm Jumeirah
Last but not the least, the Palm Jumeirah takes the cake as one of the most breathtaking attractions to visit in Dubai. There is nothing quite like the sight of this man-made palm tree island sprawling out in the Persian Gulf. The island is famous for providing the finest in luxury and eloquent recreation. It comprises of Atlantis The Palm – one of the most popular 5 start resorts of Dubai. Aquaventure water park sits right next to it along with an enigmatic aquarium, dolphin bay and sea lion point. Additionally, the Palm Jumeirah is home to the largest water fountain in the world, Palm Fountain.