25 Best Things to Do in Dubai

From shopping in traditional souks to skiing indoors, locals recommend how to experience this dazzling city.

In Dubai, it’s possible to chill on the beach, go skiing, and have a cocktail at the top of a skyscraper all in the same day. “Dubai’s got a glorious magnetism to it,” says Nada Badran, a licensed tour guide who has lived in the city for more than 30 years. “There’s so much palpable energy in the air, and every day, the city offers a new opportunity for creative fulfillment.” The wide variety of things to do ranges from classic experiences like shopping in the souks of Old Dubai to active adventures like kitesurfing or exploring the desert.

Dubai is sometimes shrouded by misconceptions, says Isabella Craddock, founder and editor of Near+Far, a magazine for modern Middle East travelers. “The first misconception is that it’s all glossy, fake, and superficial, which couldn’t be further from the truth,” she tells Travel + Leisure. Another misconception is that it’s not a safe place to visit. On the contrary, Dean Hayter, travel product manager at Scenset, says that “living in Dubai is the safest I have ever felt in any city.”

Ready to book a trip to this vibrant city? Get inspired with this list of the best things to do in Dubai, as recommended by local experts.

Top 5 Can’t Miss

• Dine above the clouds and take in the city views at the Burj Khalifa.
• Walk through Old Dubai to shop the colorful stands and sip a warm cup of chai.
• Hire a traditional wooden boat to cruise Dubai Creek at sunset.
• Go stargazing and check out nocturnal animals in the desert.
• Relax, enjoy a game of sand volleyball, or try kitesurfing on the beach.

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Visit the world’s tallest building.

Go high above the clouds when you visit the Burj Khalifa, the tallest skyscraper in the world. There are a variety of indoor and outdoor observation decks to choose from, including The Lounge on floors 152, 153, and 154, where you can enjoy drinks and appetizers at over 1,900 feet above the ground. For a fine dining experience, head to At.mosphere, located on floor 122. It’s the perfect spot to celebrate an anniversary or a milestone birthday.

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Get lost in the streets of Old Dubai.

“I am probably at my happiest when wandering in Old Dubai’s streets, sikkas (alleys), and souks, which are swarming with activity,” says Badran. “The labyrinthine souks are where everyone wants to sell you something; ‘Shakira’ and ‘professor’ are heard countless times, as vendors appear to have unanimously agreed it’s the best way to capture customers’ attention. People duck into beckoning small shops where stools are commonplace, as is a cup of chai, and every transaction involves a lengthy bargaining debate. Sounds of carts mingle with scents of aromatic spices and musky perfume.”

Once you’ve tired of shopping, visit the nearby Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest building in the city, which houses the Dubai Museum, or enjoy a cup of Arabic coffee at the Coffee Museum.

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Cruise Dubai Creek.

Dubai Creek was once part of the trade route connecting ports in the Arabian Gulf. A boat ride on the waterway is a beautiful way to see the city and one of Hayter’s top suggestions in Dubai. “Go to Dubai Creek before sunset and hire an abra (traditional wooden boat) for a private cruise,” Hayter says. “When you’re in the middle of the creek and the sky turns pink and the call to prayer fills the sky, it is magical.” You’ll see Old Dubai next to landmarks like the Deira Twin Towers, all lit up.

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Go stargazing in the desert.

Fascinated by the constellations? Book a night safari with ecotourism company Platinum Heritage, which will take you away from the city lights to the darkness of the desert. You’ll start with a ride on a vintage Land Cruiser, followed by a walk where your guide will point out nocturnal desert creatures. After a three-course dinner, use a telescope to peek at far-off galaxies and hear stories about how the Bedouin people used the stars for navigation. “The sky is so dark that you get to see the most incredible blanket of stars,” says Hayter. “If you’re with an astronomer who can explain everything you’re looking at, it’s an amazing experience.”

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Relax at a Dubai beach.

“Dubai has some great and uncrowded public beaches, where you can just enjoy the warm Arabian sea and sunshine at no cost,” says Craddock. Try Kite Beach, since it also offers fantastic showers and bathrooms, plus a handful of food stands and coffee shops. Those looking to get out on the water can rent kitesurfing gear or a stand-up paddleboard. You can also rent a Careem bike and cruise along Kite Beach’s lengthy boardwalk.

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Learn about local coffee culture.

The Arab world is known for its coffee — from traditional Turkish coffee to modern delights like cereal lattes — and Dubai has myriad cafes in which to get your daily fix. “[There are] so many cool, unique, artsy, and design-led coffee shops,” says Craddock. “Some have beautiful gardens and outdoor spaces, while a new slew of them have moody interiors and unique, immersive themes.” Craddock’s favorites are The Grey, Nightjar Coffee, and Tom&Serg.  

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Enjoy the diverse dining scene.

Between the innovative design of its restaurants and the exceptional diversity of its culinary offerings, Dubai is a fantastic place for foodies. When planning your meals, consider chic restaurants like Amazonico, which takes you on a sensory journey through the Amazon; Seva Table, a laid-back, plant-based cafe within a wellness center; and Jun’s, a fusion restaurant with the Burj Khalifa skyscraper as its backdrop, where the chef, Kelvin Cheung, aims to introduce himself to each table.

“The city offers a wide range of flavors and textures, and truly pushes boundaries,” says Cheung. “Because the Dubai food scene offers top-quality food and service in every corner of the city, my team and I stay motivated to deliver excellence with every experience. There are very few places in the world that cater to such a diverse set of people.”

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Play a round of golf.

Golf may not come to mind immediately when planning a vacation to the Middle East, but Dubai has several recognizable courses, including The Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club, one of the city’s best. Cheung suggests checking to see if your credit cards include free rounds of golf as a perk. The best time to golf here is between November and March when the weather is more comfortable.

The Best Times to Visit Dubai for Beautiful Weather, Lower Prices, and Smaller Crowds

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Indulge in the facilities of a luxe hotel.

Dubai has some of the best hotels in North Africa and the Middle East, so visiting a world-class hotel and enjoying its wellness offerings is a must. “Dubai has so many gorgeous hotels, and more often than not, you can purchase day passes to enjoy their facilities, including beaches, pools, and spas; some also have tennis and padel courts,” says Craddock. “Apps like Privilee and Viya are great for tourists and residents; you pay a fee and have unlimited access to partner hotels, beach clubs, and gym facilities, so you can try somewhere new every day.”

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Explore Alserkal Avenue.

Alserkal Avenue is an industrial warehouse district that has been transformed into a creative hub. “It’s an oasis of art, community spaces, and all things quirky,” says Badran. “To visit is to be transported to another world of art galleries, cozy cafes, boutique shops, and plenty more.” The venue’s galleries are open to the public at no cost, and it’s fun to wander here even if you’re not an art buff. Stop by for a nitro cold brew at Nightjar Coffee, or catch an indie film at Cinema Akil.

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Go on a desert adventure.

Tour through the desert in a 4×4, or go extreme off-roading in a dune buggy or on a quad bike with Expert Rangers. And if you want the full Arabian desert experience, book the package that includes sandboarding, camel riding, an Arab dinner, and entertainment.

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Get a bird’s-eye view of Dubai.

If you’re a thrill seeker, consider a dive with Skydive Dubai. Divers fall 13,000 feet through the sky over Palm Jumeirah, one of Dubai’s human-made islands — what a memory to take home with you. If you’re looking for an option that doesn’t require jumping out of a plane, book a gyrocopter flight to see landmarks like the Burj al Arab from the sky.

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Book a traditional spa treatment.

A hammam is a traditional cleansing ritual that involves hot steam, a revitalizing scrub, rhassoul clay, and products rich in Vitamin E — you’re bound to exit this experience glowing and refreshed. We recommend booking a hammam treatment at the Guerlain Spa at the One&Only The Palm. There’s even a couples’ treatment room for those who want to enjoy the experience with a partner.

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Head to Hatta.

The town of Hatta is in the Hajar Mountains, about 80 miles outside of Dubai. This is the perfect place to appreciate nature — go for a hike with spectacular views, kayak in the reservoir, or mountain bike on designated trails. There’s also a heritage village that’s home to restored traditional houses and a defense tower. At Hatta Wadi Hub, you can try out axe-throwing and archery, test your bravery on the aerial adventure course, or zip down the hillside on an inner tube.

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Scuba dive in a pool.

Deep Dive Dubai isn’t your typical swimming pool — it’s the deepest in the world at about 197 feet deep. Scuba, freediving, and snorkel courses are offered here, and if you’re already certified, you’re welcome to explore this underwater world designed to look like a sunken city. There are even experiences available for kids as young as six.

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Visit the Museum of the Future.

The Museum of the Future is an architectural wonder, with an exterior wrapped in Arabic poetry. The structure’s circular shape represents humanity, while the abyss in the middle signifies the indefinite nature of what lies ahead. Inside, you’ll find immersive exhibitions that ask observers to reflect on the world, themselves, and the future. Purchase tickets in advance as the museum is a popular attraction and day-of tickets aren’t always available.

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Visit Expo City Dubai.

Launched for the 2022 World Expo, this expanding site is a future-forward, sustainable city within a city. Visitors will find educational experiences and attractions that revolve around global topics, plus multiple playgrounds and parks. Head up to the rotating Garden in the Sky for spectacular, 360-degree views from a height of 180 feet.

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Spend a day at Atlantis The Royal.

Beyonce performed an exclusive show for the opening ceremony of Atlantis The Royal — a surefire way to get the world’s attention. This ultra-luxurious resort is worth checking out, even if you aren’t staying the night. It’s home to eight restaurants helmed by celebrity chefs (including Nobu by the Beach), a sky-high infinity pool, a club with panoramic views of the skyline, and dozens of other experiences. Day passes are available for Aquaventure, the world’s largest water park with 105 waterslides.

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Book a tour with Wander with Nada.

Nada Badran of Wander With Nada is a fun and peppy guide, but she’s also incredibly knowledgeable about Dubai, providing first-time visitors with local insights and insider experiences. Choose from several tour options, including one that highlights Dubai landmarks and another that focuses on Old Dubai.

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Party at a beach club.

Beach clubs in Dubai are worth the hype, with impeccable service, stunning infinity pools, and sumptuous dining. Two of our favorites are Nammos and Twiggy — the latter offers both adults-only and family-friendly options. Rent a cabana or beach chair and spend the entire day (or just a few hours) relaxing with a drink in hand, listening to vibey beats.

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Be dazzled by the Gold Souk.

The streets may as well be paved with gold in Dubai’s Gold Souk, a fascinating marketplace with nearly 400 vendors. You’ll see gold products of all karats and styles, from simple to elaborate. If you decide to purchase something special, don’t be shy about negotiating for a better price according to the local custom. The Perfume Souk and Spice Souk are also nearby if you want to spend the whole day shopping.

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Shop in a massive mall.

Dubai has no shortage of malls, where you’ll find just about every brand you can name. Visit Dubai Mall to see one of the largest shopping centers in the world (it’s also home to the Dubai Aquarium). The Textile Souk is the place to go for colorful silks and embroidered materials. Pop-up fashion boutiques, high-end designers, and rotating art installations can be found at the Dubai Design District (d3).

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Go skiing indoors.

If you can dream it, Dubai can make it a reality, and Ski Dubai is proof. Want to ski indoors and then step outside into warm weather? This is the place. Maintaining freezing temperatures all year long, this ski resort provides guests with ski suits to keep them cozy. Lessons are available, and there’s even a chairlift — and penguins — inside.

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Order a tailor-made outfit.

If there’s one thing foreigners may not know about the Middle East, it’s that the tailors are amazing. Most locals have everything from simple everyday outfits to wedding gowns tailor-made for them. A trip to Dubai is an opportunity to have your dream design brought to life. Visit the Textile Souk for fabric, get measured by a tailor, and voila, you’ll have a new outfit within days. Getting fit for traditional dishdasha (a robe for men) or abaya (a robe-like dress for women) is a nice way to bring a bit of Dubai home, too.

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Ride the Dubai Metro.

The Dubai Metro is an extensive and well-maintained public transportation system that connects major locations in Dubai at an affordable price. There are two stops at the Dubai Airport, so you can use it as soon as you arrive. Residents typically use the metro for their daily commute, so hop on a train to feel like a local.