Dubai may be a compact city, but its offerings are quite massive. And with EXPO 2020 just less than two months away, this Arabian metropolis has lined up for you the best of attractions and experiences. Not to mention, there is a wealth of things to do in Dubai. Want to see the best of Dubai on your upcoming holiday but don’t know where to begin? Don’t worry; this Dubai bucketlist, curated with a mix of the region’s classic, stylish and brand-new experiences, will get you started!
10 Best Things to do in Dubai
1. See Dubai from the World’s Tallest Building
At a height of 828 meters, Burj Khalifa literally needs no introduction. You can get the most up-close views of this cloud-piercing structure almost from everywhere in Downtown Dubai. But, did you know that it’s worth visiting its observation decks on 124th and 148th levels? Backed by high-speed elevator ride as well as a multimedia display on Dubai’s humble past, they feast your eyes with the most stunning views over the city skyline, desert and sparkling ocean. Don’t miss it; this is one of the highest vantage points to soak up Dubai’s unparalleled charm.
2. Get Lost in the Sheer Immensity of the Dubai Mall
Adjacent to Burj Khalifa, this huge mall is a world unto itself with an inexhaustible spectrum of attractions and experiences packed into it. More than 1200 outlets make it a haven for serious shopaholics. Foodies are in for a treat here, thanks to over 200 distinct dining choices. Its attractions such as Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink, VR Park Dubai, and Ekart Zabeel and KidZania Dubai prove that it is an absolute amusement and leisure destination too. Your Dubai Mall visit is not complete without taking in the astonishing Dubai Fountain show at Burj Lake. It is nothing but an immaculately choreographed water performance in perfect sync of music and light. So be sure to visit this mall, if you are looking for a fun destination which appeals to all members in your group.
3. Travel Through Time at Al Bastakiya Quarter
Step into this 19th century quarter where its old world appeal is still preserved to its original glory. Walk through its narrow lanes and relive the region’s past when it was just a quaint settlement. See the charming sandstone structures crowned by wooden wind towers – most of which are now converted into museums, art galleries and significant cultural attractions. Majority of them are free to enter and some of the must-visits among them are Dubai Museum (inside the city’s oldest of its kind Al Fahidi Fort), Coin Museum, Coffee Museum, and Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.
4. Watch Palm Fountain Show
2020 was a challenging year when the whole world literally doomed due to the pandemic. But, Dubai instilled hope to recoup in this difficult time by launching the world’s largest fountain - Dubai Fountain. Imagine it as a grander form of Dubai Fountain Show. Located against the background of Atlantis, The Palm Resort at the Pointe, it is sure to leave you in awe with its jaw-dropping showcase of water performance in seamless harmony of music and extraordinary multi colored lights.
5. Enjoy the best views over the Iconic Palm Jumeirah
Palm Island, with its breathtaking palm-tree design, is another Dubai attraction that you shouldn’t miss during your visit here. If you wish to see the majesty of this island in its true splendor, you should take to a sky-high standpoint which till lately was possible only on a helicopter ride or a thrilling sky diving session. But, with the unveil of the View at the Palm Jumeirah, people from all walks of life can now catch the 360 degree views of this legendary artificial island and that too for a fraction of the cost of above aerial activities. You will find this observation deck on the 52nd level of Palm Tower.
6. Desert Safari
Need a respite from the tinsel part of Dubai but don’t want to travel far? A quick alternative is to go on a desert safari. It will venture you to the region’s secluded desert landscape, which is not more than 40 minutes’ drive from the city centre. While you can do it yourself, it is highly advisable to opt for a fully guided desert safari (arranged by some of the region’s top service providers like Rayna Tours), owing to the convenience and flexibility it offers. The highpoint of any desert safari is 4X4 dune bash. Moreover, dependent on your desert safari choice, it includes a wide array of activities and experiences like camel ride, henna tattooing, Shisha smoking, BBQ dining, belly dance and Tanura show.
7. Visit Dubai Parks and Resorts
Dubai is more than its architectural gems and imposing engineering marvels. With an array of theme parks, it also serves up amusement and thrill in equal measure. One of the unmissable among them (particularly for hardcore theme park lovers) is Dubai Parks and Resorts. It is the first integrated resort in the Middle East, featuring multiple accommodations, a retail and dining segment and four cool parks under its roof. The Hollywood-themed Motiongate Dubai is the largest of four parks. Bollywood Parks Dubai is another movie-inspired park here, as it is dedicated to the all-time favorite Hindi movies. Other two parks are LEGOLAND Dubai and LEGOLAND Water Park – both exclusively designed for the families of kids from 2 to 12 years.
There are also many Dubai Waterparks.
8. Browse Dubai’s Souks for Rare Finds
The city’s traditional Arabian bazaars, locally called souks, come with an array of treats that are definite to tempt bargain shoppers, art collectors, souvenir aficionados and foodies alike. From Spice Souk and Perfume Souk to Textile Souk and Gold Souk, they are mostly dotted across Old Dubai in Bur Dubai and Deira areas.
9. Spot Astonishing Wildlife at Dubai Safari Park
Dubai is a favorite of wildlife enthusiasts, thanks to Dubai Safari Park! Spanning over 119 hectares of land, it is a safe abode for over 3000 animals brought from different parts of the world. With four exciting zones (such as African Village, Arabian Desert Safari, Asian Village and Explorer Village), it is where you get to see close to 80 species of mammals, about 50 varieties of reptiles, and over a 100 types of birds. You can also look forward to be part of many thrilling experiences, mainly the drive-through safari adventure that lets you have an up-close look at some of its mightiest inhabitants that freely roam here.
10. Dhow Cruise
As the sun shrinks, head down to the historical Dubai Creek or the stylish Dubai Marina to reward yourself with the outstanding views of Dubai’s illuminated city skyline. This lets you cruise Dubai’s waters aboard a traditional Arabian dhow which once played a significant role in supporting the region’s economy in its pre-oil phase. Besides guaranteeing you a refreshing standpoint to absorb the region’s nighttime views, it is mostly inclusive of buffet dining and traditional performances like Tanura onboard.
Conclusion
Whatever reason attracts you to Dubai, one thing is sure that it will certainly live up to your imaginations. But, just make sure that you create a proper checklist (as per your preferences) to make the most of your time here. The rest is assured that you will return with memories that you could treasure for a lifetime.
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