Things to Do in Dubai

An indoor ski slope in the middle of the desert. Five runs, a snow park, and penguin encounters. Ski Dubai is one of those things you have to experience at least once, even if you are not a skier.

A 1km zipline that sends you flying across Dubai Marina at speeds up to 80km/h. The views are incredible and the whole experience takes about two hours including the safety briefing.

Tandem skydiving with views of the Palm Jumeirah from 13,000 feet. One of the most popular activities for visitors and residents alike. Book well in advance during peak season.

If jumping out of a plane is not your thing, iFly gives you the freefall experience indoors. Great for kids and adults. Located at City Walk with walk-in sessions available.

The largest waterpark in the Middle East. Record-breaking slides, a lazy river, a private beach, and marine animal encounters. A full day out for families, couples, or groups.

A classic Dubai experience. Dune bashing in a 4x4, camel rides, sandboarding, henna, and a BBQ dinner under the stars. Book through licensed operators for a safe and well-organised trip.

Hatta is a completely different side of the UAE. Kayaking on the Hatta Dam, mountain hiking trails, and cooler temperatures. About 90 minutes from Dubai and well worth the drive.

A guided climbing route on the UAE's highest peak in Ras Al Khaimah. Metal rungs, cables, and zip lines take you across rock faces with stunning mountain views. No prior experience needed. About 90 minutes from Dubai.

The tallest building in the world. The At The Top observation deck on floors 124 and 125 is the standard experience. SKY level on floor 148 is the premium option with a dedicated lounge. Book online for better prices.

A 150-metre golden picture frame in Zabeel Park. The glass-floor walkway at the top is not for the faint-hearted. Views of old Dubai on one side and new Dubai on the other.

Located in Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest building in Dubai. A small but well-done museum showing what Dubai looked like before the discovery of oil. Worth a visit, especially combined with the Al Fahidi district.

A beautifully restored heritage area in Bur Dubai. Narrow lanes, wind towers, art galleries (XVA Gallery is a highlight), coffee museums, and local restaurants. The most authentic part of old Dubai.

A stunning dhow-shaped building in Downtown Dubai. Hosts opera, ballet, concerts, comedy shows, and theatre. Architecture tours are available if you want to see behind the scenes.

The building alone is worth seeing. Inside, immersive exhibitions explore the future of technology, space, and sustainability. One of the most talked-about attractions in Dubai since it opened.

A converted industrial warehouse district in Al Quoz that has become the heart of Dubai's art scene. Contemporary galleries, independent cafes, concept stores, and regular events. A completely different vibe from the rest of the city.

Over 150 million flowers arranged into arches, castles, and sculptures including a life-size Emirates A380. Open from November to May. Located in Dubailand near Arjan. A surprisingly impressive afternoon out.

Standing at 250 metres, Ain Dubai is the world's tallest observation wheel. Located on Bluewaters Island off JBR. Each rotation takes around 38 minutes with panoramic views of the Marina skyline, Palm Jumeirah, and beyond.

One of the few mosques in Dubai open to non-Muslim visitors. Guided tours run several times a week and offer genuine insight into Islamic culture and Emirati traditions. A respectful and educational experience.

A massive aquarium inside Dubai Mall with a 48-metre walk-through tunnel. Shark encounters, cage diving, and glass-bottom boat rides are available. The tunnel is free to view from the mall, but the full experience is ticketed.

A miniature city where kids aged 2 to 16 can role-play adult jobs. Firefighter, pilot, doctor, chef, and more. Each activity earns KidZos (the in-house currency). Kids absolutely love it.

A full LEGO-themed park at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Over 40 rides and attractions designed for children aged 2 to 12. LEGOLAND Water Park is right next door for an add-on.

The world's largest indoor theme park. Marvel, Cartoon Network, and Lost Valley zones with rides for all ages. Fully air-conditioned, making it a great option during the summer months.

An Olympic-size ice rink inside Dubai Mall. Open skate sessions, figure skating lessons, and ice hockey. A fun break from shopping and a welcome cool-down on hot days.

An indoor tropical rainforest at City Walk. Over 3,000 plants and animals across four levels. Sloths, toucans, sugar gliders, and more. Educational and genuinely impressive for all ages.

A Hollywood-themed park at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Rides and attractions based on DreamWorks, Columbia Pictures, and Lionsgate films. Suitable for slightly older kids and teenagers.

The world's first Real Madrid theme park at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Interactive experiences, rides, and a chance to feel like you are part of the team. Great for football fans of all ages.

A hands-on play museum in Al Quoz designed for children aged 2 to 11. Eight themed galleries covering art, science, water, and building. Beautifully designed and genuinely educational. One of the best indoor kids activities in Dubai.

A 40,000 sq ft immersive experience at WAFI Mall with 12 zones of light, sound, and digital art. Instagram-worthy and genuinely engaging. Good for older kids, teens, and adults.

A seasonal attraction in Zabeel Park featuring illuminated sculptures, a dinosaur park, and an ice park. Open from October to May. Best visited after dark. Popular with families and younger children.

A motorsport complex in Motor City with go-karting, track days, and supercar driving experiences. You can drive Ferraris, Lamborghinis, and McLarens on a proper racing circuit.

A high-tech driving range at Emirates Golf Club. Each bay has games and scoring, plus a full food and drinks menu. A fun outing even if you have never picked up a golf club before.

Padel has exploded in Dubai. Courts are everywhere, including Just Padel and NAS Sports facilities. Easy to pick up, highly social, and a great workout. Book courts through the various club apps.

Dubai has some excellent running routes. Dubai Marina Walk, Kite Beach, and the Dubai Canal boardwalk are the most popular. The cooler months (November to March) are the best time for outdoor running.

Al Qudra cycling track is 85km of flat desert road popular with cyclists at sunrise and sunset. The Dubai Cycling Track at Nad Al Sheba is another favourite. Both are car-free and well-maintained.

Outdoor yoga sessions at Kite Beach are popular during the cooler months. Rooftop yoga studios and wellness centres operate year-round across the city. A great way to start the day.

A growing favourite among Dubai runners. The Creek Harbour boardwalk offers a flat, scenic loop with views of the city skyline and the developing Creek Tower site. Less crowded than the Marina and well lit in the evening.