Dubai is a city where tradition meets futuristic ambition, creating a unique travel experience filled with awe-inspiring attractions, luxury, and adventure. Known as the city of superlatives, Dubai boasts the world’s tallest building, man-made islands, and cutting-edge entertainment options.
There is an array of things to do in the city of iconic futuristic skyscrapers, palm-shaped islands, and city-sized malls. Whatever kind of vacation you plan, numerous activities in Dubai cater to all preferences and budgets.
List of 11 splendid things to experience on your trip to Dubai
Shop and Stroll in The Luxurious Dubai Mall
One of the world’s largest shopping complexes, The Dubai Mall is not just a haven for shoppers but offers numerous activities in Dubai beyond retail therapy. With over 1,200 retail and luxury stores, an indoor aquarium, a world-class ice rink, 14,000 parking spaces, and theme parks, there are all kinds of activities and attractions for all kinds of visitors.
Visit The Dubai Mall during the Dubai Shopping Festival from December to January to avail great deals on stores.
Timings: Monday – Thursday: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm
Friday – Sunday: 10:00 am – 12:00 am
Entry Fee: No Entry Fee, ticket prices vary for activities inside the mall.
Location: Financial Centre Road, Downtown Dubai
| Experiences at The Dubai Mall | Ticket Price | Timing |
| Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo | AED 199 onwards (~INR 4,500) | Mon-Fri: 10 am – 11 pmSat-Sun: 10 am – 12 am |
| Dubai Ice Rink | AED 90 onwards (~INR 2,000) | Mon-Thu: 10 am – 10pmFri-Sun: 10 am – 12 am |
| Kidzania | AED 80 onwards (~INR 1,800) | Sun-Thu: 10 am – 10 pmFri-Sat: 10 am – 11 pm |
Tip: Wear comfortable shoes to walk for the whole day.
Explore Floral Wonders at Dubai Miracle Garden
A sweet-scented world’s largest flower garden, known for its marvelous vibrant flowers, picturesque floral arrangements, and modern landscaping. It has over 150 million flowers in full bloom, opening for visitors during winter from October to April every year. Explore Dubai Butterfly Garden, situated just next to the Dubai Miracle Garden.
Plunge into the city of wonders with our Dubai Tour Package to explore the lively marvels of Dubai.
Attractions in Dubai Miracle Garden:
- Floral Clock
- Sunflower Field
- Hill Top
- Emirates A380
Ticket Price: AED 100 (~INR 2,300 for adults) and AED 85 (~INR 1,950 for ages 3-12 years)
Location: Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand, Dubai
Marvel at the Dubai Fountain Show
The Dubai Fountain Show is one of the most popular Dubai activities and is loved by all ages. The captivating well-choreographed musical fountain projects high into the sky, illuminating through the spectacular light projections. The shows occur every 30 minutes from 6 pm onwards, gathering crowds of The Dubai Mall and around, to relax and click as many pictures.
Ticket Price: Free to watch,
AED 20 (~INR 500 ) for a front-row Boardwalk, AED 68.25 (~INR 1,600) for Abra boat Lake Ride
Location: Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
Explore Dubai’s Cultural Heart at Al Fahidi Historical District
Dive into the heritage of old Dubai and what it was like during the mid-19th century at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Wander through narrow lanes, and traditional wind-tower architecture, and visit museums that shed light on the history of Dubai.
Entry Fee: Free
Top Spots in Al Fahidi:
- Coins Museum – over 470 rare coins are displayed
- Calligraphy House (Dar Al Khatt)
- Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU)
- Municipality House, for traditional Dubai architecture
- Arabian Tea House, for a refreshing Emirati treat
Location: Al Fahidi St, Al Souq Al Kabeer, Bur Dubai
A Thrilling Adventure: Desert Safari
One of the best things to do in Dubai is to experience the vast Arabian desert. The desert safaris offer adrenaline-pumping activities like 4×4 rides or dune buggy for dune bashing, camel rides, spectacular desert sunsets, and sandboarding. End your day with a traditional Arabian BBQ dinner and mesmerizing cultural and belly dance performances under the starlit sky.
Ticket Price: AED 99 (INR 2,300) onwards
Time Duration: Approximately 6 hours
Location: Al Aweer Desert, Lahbab Desert, or Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Sky-High Adventures: Skydive Dubai
Skydive Dubai should be noticed if you are a thrill-seeker looking for one of the best activities in Dubai. Feel the adrenaline rush like no other as you jump from the height of 13,000 feet with an exquisite perspective of the city from white sand beaches, deserts, and Palm Jumeirah right beneath you.
| Skydive Locations in Dubai | Ticket Price | Time Duration | Location |
| Palm Drop Zone | AED 2,599 (INR 60,000) | 4 hours | Skydive Dubai, Palm Drop Zone, Al Seyahi St, Dubai |
| Desert Drop Zone | AED 2,199 (INR 50,529) | 4 hours | Skydive Dubai Desert, Al Ain Rd, Dubai |
Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates
Believe it or not, you can enjoy snow activities in the middle of the desert! Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East that features major snow activities and attractions along with friendly encounters with penguins. The snow wonderland is located in the Mall of Emirates.
| Activities in Ski Dubai | Ticket Price | Time Duration |
| Slope | 240 AED onwards (INR 5,500) | 2 hours |
| Penguin Encounter | 230 AED onwards (INR 5,300) | 40 minutes |
| Ski Lessons | 190 AED (INR 4,400) | 60 minutes |
| Snowboard Lessons | 190 AED (INR 4,400) | 60 minutes |
Timings: Sat-Sun: 09:00 am – 12:00 am;
Mon-Thu: 10:00 am – 11:00 pm;
Fri: 10:00 am – 12:00 am
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Interchange 4, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai
Hot Air Balloon Ride
One of the best things to do in Dubai is float peacefully on a hot-air balloon over the Arabian sands, as the remarkable Dubai unfolds its beauty as you ascend an altitude of over 4000 ft gliding above the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Share the sky and meet with the majestic Peregrine Falcon during your enchanting sunset or sunrise ride. If you are thinking of visiting with your romantic partner, this reason is enough to start planning a trip to Dubai.
Package Price: AED 1100 onwards (INR 25,200 approximately)
Time Duration: Around 1 hour, or 4-6 hours for different packages
Location (Starting Point): Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve Offices, 83 St, Dubai
Experience the Iconic Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah, an artificial archipelago shaped like a palm tree, is one of the most iconic landmarks for world-class activities to do in Dubai. The luxurious island offers stunning beachfront views, fine dining, and luxury resorts like Atlantis, The Palm.
Activities in Palm Jumeirah:
- The View at the Palm
- Aquaventure Waterpark
- Lost Chambers Aquarium
- Sail around Palm Jumeirah
- Skydive Dubai
Entry Fee: No entry fee for visiting, activity costs may vary
Location: Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Shop at Gold Souk
Witness the dazzling largest and oldest gold market with over 400 gold vendors, Gold Souk. Even if you do not wish to make purchases, walk through the streets and feel like you have entered a pot of gold treasures. Gold items of all karats and styles, from basic to intricate, from traditional to modern will be displayed.
Entry Fee: Free
Location: Sikkat Al Khail St, Deira, Dubai
Tip: Bargaining is expected! Make sure to buy after good research in the market, and from licensed retail shops instead of street vendors.
Dine at Dubai Marina
Popularly known as ‘New Dubai’, Dubai Marina is a man-made cosmopolitan canal city. Hop on to the Dubai Marina Cruise to witness Dubai’s dazzling skyline views as you sail through the waters of the Marina, enjoying Arabian and international cuisines along with some entertainment and Tanoura Dance show on the cruise.
Ticket Price: AED 50 (~INR 1,150) onwards
Time Duration: 90 minutes – 2 hours
Popular Dinner Cruises in Dubai:
- Dubai Dhow Cruise – ₹1,241 onwards
- Dubai Marina Cruises – ₹1,953 onwards
- Yacht Cruised – ₹4,137 onwards
FAQ
What is the best time to visit Dubai?
The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March. These months offer pleasant weather, perfect for outdoor activities and sightseeing. You will enjoy mild temperatures, clear blue skies, and delightful nights.
How to reach Dubai?
Dubai is well-connected by air from India. There are numerous direct flights from major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bangalore. Airlines such as Emirates, Air India, and IndiGo operate frequent flights. A flight usually takes approximately 3-4 hours, making it a perfect international destination to explore. Check out the Dubai Tour Package for more information!
What are the best places to visit in Dubai?
Dubai is a treasure trove of attractions. Visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and Dubai Mall for luxury shopping. Experience the essence of Old Dubai at Al Fahidi District, and relax at Jumeirah Beach. Do not miss the thrilling Desert Safari and the futuristic Museum of the Future.
What are the things to do in Dubai for free?
If you are on a budget trip, there are a lot of things to do in Dubai for free. From enjoying the breathtaking views of the city to strolling along Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk and relaxing at sprawling Dubai beaches. Families love the free musical show at The Dubai Fountain that occurs daily in the evening. If you are an art admirer, visit Alserkal Avenue, or Jameel Arts Centre. Explore Old Dubai by visiting the traditional souks.
Are you bedazzled by the wondrous Dubai? Explore the packages and book yourself an enthralling trip to Dubai.
