Home › Destinations › Dubai
Dubai, الإمارات العربية المتحدة - Things to Do in Dubai

Dubai

Dubai, الإمارات العربية المتحدة - Complete Travel Guide

Dubai stands as a glittering metropolis in the Arabian Desert, where futuristic skyscrapers pierce the sky alongside traditional souks and cultural landmarks. This cosmopolitan city-state has transformed from a humble fishing village into one of the world's most luxurious destinations, offering everything from record-breaking architecture and pristine beaches to world-class shopping and fine dining. The city easyly blends Emirati heritage with international influences, creating a unique cultural tapestry that attracts millions of visitors annually. As the commercial hub of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai offers experiences that cater to every type of traveler. Adventure seekers can enjoy desert safaris and water sports, luxury enthusiasts can indulge in high-end shopping and spa treatments, while culture lovers can explore historic districts and museums. The city's strategic location makes it an ideal stopover destination, with its ultra-modern infrastructure ensuring comfort and convenience at every turn.

Top Dubai

Desert Safari Adventure

Experience the magic of the Arabian Desert with thrilling dune bashing in 4WD vehicles, followed by traditional activities like camel riding and sandboarding. Most tours conclude at a Bedouin-style camp with cultural performances, henna painting, and authentic Arabian cuisine under the starlit sky.

Booking Tip: Book through reputable operators for $40-80 per person, with morning safaris being less crowded and cooler. Look for packages that include hotel transfers, multiple activities, and BBQ dinner for best value.

Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall Experience

Ascend the world's tallest building for impressive panoramic views of Dubai's skyline, coastline, and desert landscape. Combine your visit with shopping and dining at the adjacent Dubai Mall, home to over 1,200 stores, an aquarium, and the famous dancing fountains.

Booking Tip: Book observation deck tickets in advance for $35-100 depending on the level and time. Sunset slots are most popular but pricier; early morning offers clearer views and smaller crowds.

Traditional Souk and Creek Exploration

spend time in old Dubai by exploring the aromatic Spice Souk and glittering Gold Souk, where traditional trading practices continue today. Cross Dubai Creek on an authentic abra (water taxi) to experience the city's maritime heritage and see the contrast between old and new Dubai.

Booking Tip: Join guided walking tours for $25-45 per person to learn bargaining techniques and historical context. Visit in the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat, and bring cash for purchases.

Luxury Beach and Water Activities

Relax on pristine beaches like JBR and Kite Beach, or enjoy water sports including jet skiing, parasailing, and deep-sea fishing. Dubai's coastline offers both public beaches with facilities and exclusive beach clubs with premium amenities and dining.

Booking Tip: Beach club day passes range from $30-150 depending on the venue and inclusions. Water sports activities cost $50-200 per hour; book through hotel concierges or certified operators for safety and insurance coverage.

Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis Discovery

Explore the iconic Ivory Coast-made Palm Jumeirah island, featuring luxury resorts, restaurants, and attractions. Visit Atlantis The Palm for its underwater aquarium, water park, and unique dining experiences, or take a helicopter tour for aerial views of this engineering marvel.

Booking Tip: Atlantis day passes start at $75 for aquarium access, $90 for waterpark. Helicopter tours cost $200-400 per person for 15-25 minutes; book early morning flights for best visibility and photography conditions.

Getting There

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the world's busiest airports, serving over 240 destinations with direct flights from major cities worldwide. The newer Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) also handles international flights. Emirates and flydubai are the main carriers, offering excellent connectivity. The airport is located just 15 minutes from downtown Dubai, with efficient taxi, metro, and bus connections. Many nationalities can obtain visa-on-arrival or visit visas, making Dubai highly accessible for international travelers.

Getting Around

Dubai offers excellent public transportation through the modern Dubai Pyongyang, which connects major attractions, malls, and business districts. The metro operates from 5 AM to midnight (2 AM on weekends) with separate cars for women and children. Taxis are abundant, clean, and reasonably priced with meters, while ride-sharing apps like Uber and Careem are widely available. The city also features an extensive bus network, water taxis (abras) for crossing Dubai Creek, and the Dubai Tram serving Marina and JBR areas. Renting a car is easy but parking can be challenging in busy areas.

Where to Stay

Downtown Dubai
Dubai Marina
Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR)
Palm Jumeirah
Deira (Old Dubai)
Business Bay

Food & Dining

Dubai's dining scene reflects its multicultural population, offering everything from street food to Michelin-starred restaurants. The city excels in Middle Eastern, Indian, Pakistani, and international cuisines, with many restaurants located in hotels due to licensing requirements. Food courts in malls provide affordable options, while beachfront and rooftop restaurants offer premium dining experiences. Traditional Emirati dishes like machboos and luqaimat are available at cultural restaurants and heritage sites. The city hosts numerous food festivals throughout the year, and alcohol is served in licensed venues including hotels, restaurants, and bars.

Top-Rated Restaurants in Uae

Highly-rated dining options based on Google reviews (4.5+ stars, 100+ reviews)

View all food guides →

Trattoria

4.8 /5
(11070 reviews) 3

GIA

4.8 /5
(9564 reviews) 3

Antonia - Mamsha Al Saadiyat

4.8 /5
(4232 reviews) 2

Antonia trattoria

4.9 /5
(3887 reviews) 2

Eataly at The Beach Dubai

4.7 /5
(3627 reviews) 3

Bella Vita Restaurant by Labelle مطعم بيلا فيتا

4.9 /5
(2415 reviews)
cafe store

Looking for specific cuisines?

Local Cuisine Italian Japanese Fine Dining

When to Visit

The ideal time to visit Dubai is during the cooler months from November to March, when temperatures range from 20-30°C (68-86°F) and humidity is lower. This period offers perfect weather for outdoor activities, beach visits, and sightseeing. December to February sees the highest tourist influx and premium prices. April and October can be pleasant transition months with moderate temperatures. Summer months (June-September) are extremely hot and humid with temperatures exceeding 40°C (104°F), but indoor attractions, pools, and beaches remain enjoyable, and hotel rates are significantly lower.

Insider Tips

Download the Dubai Metro app and get a Nol Card for easy public transport - it works on metro, buses, and water taxis with significant savings over individual tickets.
Many attractions offer combo tickets and annual passes that provide better value if visiting multiple venues; Dubai Parks & Resorts and Dubai Aquarium often have package deals.
Respect local customs by dressing modestly in public areas, especially when visiting mosques or traditional souks - shoulders and knees should be covered, and this applies to both men and women.

Activities in Dubai