Embark on a desert safari and go kayaking in Dubai Creek with this guide to amazing activities in Dubai. Dubai, one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates, is a rapidly developing metropolis designed to offer grand experiences, yet deeply rooted in its culture. This futuristic megacity is a city of contrasts, where the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, stands alongside traditional souks and golden deserts. There’s no shortage of exciting things to do in Dubai, from dining at a table suspended 165 feet (50 meters) above the marina, to wandering through the spice souks and traditional Dubai markets, sampling Dubai’s famous dishes online, and even venturing into the desert on a dune buggy adventure. Here’s your guide to all the amazing things to do in Dubai.
A quick look at the best fun activities in Dubai
Fun activities for couples: hot air balloon ride, visit a traditional Bedouin village, and take photos with a professional guide.
Fun activities for children and families: visiting themed amusement parks, indoor skating, watching the light show at the Dubai Fountain, and much more.
Fun activities on your own: Ride the world’s longest zip line, go kayaking in Dubai Creek, and stroll through the trendy streets of Al Satwa.
Fun food experiences: Take a street food tour and eat while you’re suspended above the city.
Fun activities for couples in Dubai
1. Enjoy a hot air balloon ride over the Arabian Desert at sunrise
Soar above the Arabian Desert on a hot air balloon ride at sunrise from Dubai . Take to the skies as the first rays of dawn touch the sand dunes, turning the landscape golden. It’s a cinematic experience to explore the natural beauty of Dubai from a completely new perspective.
Highlights of a hot air balloon ride in Dubai
Watching the sunrise over the desert from 4,000 feet is a serene, once-in-a-lifetime moment above the sand dunes.
Address
You will be picked up directly from your accommodation.
Working hours
Most operators start at 4:00 AM and the trial lasts 4 hours.
2. Please visit Al Marmoom Oasis
Al Marmoom Oasis , located in the largest unfenced desert reserve in the UAE, for one of Dubai’s most romantic experiences : a journey from the city to a traditional camp. Enjoy the desert scenery, listen to live Emirati folk music, savor a delicious Bedouin meal, and experience what life is like in a traditional Bedouin village.
The highlights of visiting Al Marmoom Oasis
They gathered for a stargazing session with the guide and learned how nomadic Bedouins used the sky as their map.
Address
Al Muqattarah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
3. Explore Old Dubai and its markets
Away from the glittering skyscrapers of the city center, Dubai’s traditional souks offer a completely different rhythm and atmosphere. These historic markets have been centers of commerce and culture for centuries. Explore the famous Gold Souk and Textile Souk, or visit the Perfume Souk, where you can even commission a bespoke fragrance created by a local perfumer.
Insider’s Advice
Haggling is part of the experience in most Dubai markets. Be friendly, know your budget, and don’t be afraid to leave if the price isn’t right. You’ll often get the best deal when you pay in cash.
Address
Dubai Gold Souk, Deira, Al Ras, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Working hours
From Saturday to Thursday, from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Friday, 9:00 AM – 12:30 PM, 1:30 PM – 5:00 PM
4. Capture Dubai’s magical moments with a special photoshoot
Capture your Dubai trip with a private photoshoot led by a professional photographer. The photographer will take you to the most beautiful locations and help you capture stunning, high-quality holiday photos that you’ll cherish for years to come.
The best time to book a professional photoshoot
For the most beautiful lighting and the most vibrant colors, book your photo session during the golden hour — just before sunset — when the Dubai skyline glows and the light is soft and warm.
Fun activities in Dubai with children
5. Go indoor skiing at Ski Dubai
It might not be the most traditional place to put on your skis, but Ski Dubai , inside Mall of the Emirates, is one of Dubai’s most popular family-friendly attractions. Swap the desert heat for soft snow, speed down the indoor slopes, and hop on a suspended chairlift for a snowy retreat in the heart of Dubai.
Insider’s tip for Ski Dubai
With the Snow Plus Pass, you can experience a variety of winter activities, from zorbing to skiing trails, with all equipment available for rent on site.
Address
Mall of the Emirates – Dubai
Working hours
Open daily, from 10:00 AM to 11:30 PM
6. Visit the indoor rainforests at The Green Planet
Step into a tropical rainforest at The Green Planet , Dubai’s stunning indoor rainforest. Wander among lush vegetation, watch sloths resting in the tree branches, and enjoy the vibrant birds soaring freely around you within this incredible biodome.
Address
City Walk, Al Wasl
Working hours
Open daily, from 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
7. Enjoy the Magic Fountain show in Dubai
No trip to Dubai is complete without seeing the spectacular Dubai Fountain show . For an even more unforgettable experience, take a boat ride on Burj Lake and watch the show right from the water. As you glide across the lake, watch the fountains leap, spin, and dance in perfect harmony with the music and lights.
An insider’s tip for viewing the Dubai Fountain
If you are watching the show from the Corniche, stand near the bridge next to the Sea Market for the clearest and unobstructed view.
Address
Dubai Fountain, Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
Working hours
The fountains wake up every 30 minutes from 5:45 pm until 11:30 pm daily.
8. Enjoy swimming at Aquaventure Waterpark
Have you ever wanted to experience a 27-meter free-fall water slide? Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or traveling with young adventurers, Aquaventure Waterpark in Dubai is one of the most exciting activities in Dubai for a family day out. If you prefer to relax by the water on a private beach, you can unwind while the kids enjoy the slides and water play areas.
An insider’s tip when visiting Aquaventure Waterpark in Dubai
Take a leisurely stroll down the slow-moving river to enjoy the park in a more tranquil way between the big thrill experiences.
Address
Atlantis The Palm, Crescent Road
Working hours
Open daily, from 9:45 am to 6:30 pm
9. Visit Motiongate Theme Park
Take the kids on a memorable outing to Motiongate Dubai , a cinematic theme park inspired by three major Hollywood studios: DreamWorks, Columbia Pictures, and Lionsgate. Explore immersive worlds from your favorite movies, enjoy epic rides, and meet beloved characters in the park’s various zones.
the address
Motiongate Dubai
working hours
Open Sunday to Thursday from 11:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Friday–Saturday 11:00 AM–9:00 PM
10. Visit Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Located just outside the city and easily accessible by public transport, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is one of Dubai’s most important protected wetland areas. Home to a rich ecosystem of migratory birds, fish, and other wildlife, the sanctuary offers a tranquil escape from the city’s fast-paced energy.
Highlights of Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Visit in winter (November to March) to see thousands of flamingos gather along the shore, painting the horizon with soft pink hues. This reserve is one of the most spectacular natural attractions in the UAE.
the address
Ras Al Khor Road
working hours
Open Sunday to Thursday from 7:30 am to 5:30 pm
Closed on Fridays and Saturdays
Fun activities you can do on your own in Dubai
11. Ride the world’s longest urban zip line
Take to the air and experience the sensation of flying for over a kilometer while marveling at the views below and reaching speeds of up to 80 kilometers per hour. The zipline experience across the marina is one of the most thrilling activities for adventurers in Dubai.
The most prominent features of the Dubai Zipline experience
After that, you will receive professionally edited photos and video of the experience, which are included in the price.
the address
Dubai Marina Mall – Dubai Marina – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
working hours
Open daily, from 9:45 am to 12:45 pm and from 1:45 pm to 5 pm
12. Experience La Perle by Dragone: The #1 spectacular show not to be missed in Dubai
One of the most exciting things for anyone visiting Dubai is to get some tickets to La Perle by Dragone . This spectacular show features acrobats, underwater divers, a huge cast of 65 performers, and a lavish stage design with immersive technology.
An insider’s tip for watching La Perle by Dragone
With only 14 rows, you’re guaranteed a great seat. Many packages include dinner at one of Al Habtoor City’s excellent restaurants before the show.
the address
Al Habtoor City, 260 Sheikh Zayed Road
working hours
The shows start at 6:30 PM and 9:00 PM
13. Kayaking in Dubai Creek at night
For a truly unique activity in Dubai, take a kayaking tour on Dubai Creek at sunset or at night. Enjoy the stunning Dubai skyline from the water as the lights shimmer in the creek, and paddle past a wildlife sanctuary where you can observe many bird species.
Highlights of a kayak tour in Dubai Creek
Enjoy the Jumeirah Bay skyline lights from a unique vantage point.
the address
Dubai Creek Marina, Dubai Creek Resort, Port Saeed, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
14. Enjoy watching the street art in the streets of Al Satwa
Visit Al Satwa district in Dubai , known as the “Dubai Street Museum.” This trendy area is filled with large-scale and beautifully painted street art, as well as murals on building walls.
Insider’s tip for visiting Al Satwa on a street tour
There are guided tours led by a local expert who will take you to explore many of Dubai’s hidden treasures away from the well-known trails.
15. Experience the most amazing dune buggy adventure in Dubai
Unleash your adventurous spirit with a dune buggy safari , one of Dubai’s most exciting and enjoyable activities. Speed across the red sand dunes of the Lahbab Desert in a powerful 1000cc Polaris buggy, tackling steep inclines, sharp turns, and rolling hills. Whether you’re a beginner or an expert driver, the adrenaline rush will be unforgettable.
Fun activities in Dubai if you love food and drink
16. Discover the most delicious street food in Dubai
Dubai’s street food scene is brimming with bold flavors and hidden gems. Join a street food tour and let your guide lead you to the city’s best local spots—including some of the finest vegetarian street food the city has to offer. It’s the perfect way to sample authentic dishes you might not discover on your own.
An insider’s tip for a street food tour in Dubai
Come hungry. Many of the street food tours in Bur Dubai and Deira include generous food samples at family-run restaurants and stalls, so you’ll need plenty of room in your stomach to try everything.
17. Have a meal while you’re suspended high above the city.
For a truly unique and exciting experience in Dubai, try Dinner in the Sky. At 165 feet (50 meters) above the ground, you’ll enjoy a sumptuous three-course meal while taking in breathtaking views of Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah from a completely new perspective.
Insider’s Advice
Bring a light jacket with you; the air can be crisp at 165 feet.
the address
Skydive Dubai, Mina Seyahi
working hours
The experience starts at 6:30 PM and 9:30 PM and lasts for an hour and a half.