Choose from 55 Fun Things to Do in Dubai
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Abu Dhabi Corniche
The Abu Dhabi Corniche stretches along the northwestern shore of the island city, a popular spot for beachside recreation. The 5-mile (8-kilometer) stretch of attractive waterfront includes walking paths, cafes, playgrounds and bicycle rentals, and no matter what you decide to do along the coast, you’ll have an excellent view of Abu Dhabi’s skyline. In the evenings, the promenade is the perfect place for a stroll.
The Corniche’s crowning jewel is its public white sand beach. With numerous lifeguards on duty during swimming hours and floating fences keeping swimmers within 130 feet (40 meters), the Corniche Beach is great for families traveling with children. Come on a weekday, and you’ll usually find an umbrella.
The Corniche’s crowning jewel is its public white sand beach. With numerous lifeguards on duty during swimming hours and floating fences keeping swimmers within 130 feet (40 meters), the Corniche Beach is great for families traveling with children. Come on a weekday, and you’ll usually find an umbrella.
Practical Info
Besides the free public beach, you’ll also find singles and family sections, each charging a small admittance fee. Abu Dhabi remains conservative, so stick with modest swim wear and be sure to cover up before leaving the beach area. It’s not unusual to see local families fully covered while playing in the sand.
Address: Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Open daily, swimming restricted after 6pm
From $ 25
Dubai Museum
Set inside Al Fahidi Fort, the Dubai Museum recounts the Emirates’ history up until the oil boom, which forever altered its skyline. Dioramas and artifacts convey what daily life was like for Dubai’s earliest communities, while life-sized re-creations of the city’s early souks and wharfs bring the past to life.
The Basics
Housed in Dubai’s oldest structure—built in 1787—the Dubai Museum gives visitors insight into a side of the city hard to imagine amid all the ultramodern skyscrapers. The museum is a highlight on many city tours, along with other popular Dubai attractions such as the Jumeirah Mosque, Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Creek, and the Gold and Spice souks.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Dubai Museum is a must-see for history buffs.
- See the museum as part of a city sightseeing tour, with stops at several other popular attractions.
- The Dubai Museum is accessible to wheelchair users, but there are some steep walkways that may require assistance for manual wheelchairs.
How to Get There
To reach the Dubai Museum, either walk along Al Fahidi Street through the backstreets of Bastakia or make your way there from Bur Dubai Souq. The Dubai Museum is a short walk from both the Bhubaiba and Fahidi bus and metro stations. Limited free public parking is also available.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily (limited hours on Fridays) except for during Ramadan, when the museum remains closed on Fridays. Despite being in the oldest building in Dubai, the museum is completely air-conditioned, making it a perfect way to spend an hour or so during the hottest part of the afternoon.
History of Al Fahidi Fort
Located on the southern shores of Dubai Creek, the 200-year-old Al Fahidi Fort was built at what was then the edge of urban Dubai to lend protection to the city. Throughout its history, the building served as an arsenal for weapons and artillery, and as a prison before it became a museum in 1971.
Address: Al Fahidi Fort, Al Fahidi Street, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: 3 AED
From $ 23
Dubai Creek (Khor Dubai)
The seawater Dubai Creek (Khor Dubai), flowing between Deira and Bur Dubai in the historic center of the United Arab Emirates city of the same name, is the reason for Dubai's very existence. When trade with the outside world began over a century ago, this protected inlet was the obvious choice to develop a commercial seaport. The creek has been widened many times during the last century, and today, it's often busy with abra—small wooden water taxis—ferrying passengers between the souks of Deira on the northeastern bank and the historic district of Bur Dubai on the southwestern bank.
The Basics
The Basics
While water taxis are often included as part of guided sightseeing tours and serve as a practical way to see the sights of Dubai Creek while getting from Point A to Point B, the waterway can also be enjoyed via a sunset dinner cruise aboard a traditional Arabian wooden sailboat known as a dhow. Many comprehensive tours of Dubai city include a cruise on Khor Dubai or a dhow dinner cruise (Bateaux Dubai is a popular one) with visits to the Burj Khalifa, the Burj Al-Arab, the Dubai desert, the Dubai Marina, and the Old City area.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to the Dubai Creek
- Take a water taxi as a form of transportation to use Dubai Creek as the locals do.
- Take your Dubai Creek experience up a notch with a dinner dhow cruise.
- Handicap accessibility is not guaranteed on creek tours.
There are four stations where travelers board water taxis—two on the Deira side and two on the Bur Dubai side. From the creek, it's possible to spot palaces, mosques and other Dubai landmarks, including the Gold Souk and the Dubai Heritage Village.
When to Get There
If visiting on your own, arrive in the early morning or evening to enjoy some peaceful moments, or during the hectic middle of the day to see bustling life all around you. Expect temperatures of up to 110°F (43°C) in summer.
Dhows and Abras on the Dubai Creek
Dhows are wooden boats with long, thin, hulls, typically used to carry heavy cargo for trading. Lateen-rigged sails on one or more masts help power the boats carrying fruit or fresh water. Abras are the traditional motor-powered water taxis used in Dubai.
Address: Creekside Park, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Free
From $ 23
Dubai Parks and Resorts
Dubai Parks and Resorts has grown to become the region’s first integrated resort destination, comprising three theme parks, a waterpark, an entertainment district, and a Polynesian-style family resort. From Lego-building experiences to Bollywood-themed stunt shows and fireworks every Friday night, there is truly something for everyone.
The Basics
For many Dubai Parks and Resorts visitors, the highlights are the twin parks LEGOLAND Dubai and LEGOLAND Water Park, each with its own set of rides, water features, and, of course, LEGO-building ops. Motiongate Dubai and Bollywood Parks Dubai are cinematic theme parks based on Hollywood and Bollywood classics, while Riverland Dubai serves as the gateway to the parks, with a collection of shops and restaurants divided into four themed zones.
One of Dubai’s most popular family attractions offers numerous ways to visit. If you’re planning to spend only a day at the parks, choose between a 1- or 2-park pass. With two days to dedicate to the area, you can opt for a 2-day all-parks pass that offers unlimited access to all three theme parks and the waterpark. Single-day park passes with hotel transfers are also an appealing option for a care-free experience.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dubai Parks and Resorts are a must for families visiting the region.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection and drink plenty of water.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared to spend a lot of time on your feet.
- Some of the parks’ rides, attractions, and amenities are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Dubai Parks and Resorts are located about 20 minutes outside of Dubai. The park offers a free shuttle service from malls and hotels around the city, including Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates.
When to Get There
The best time to visit the parks is during the winter months, from November to April, when temperatures are cool enough to enjoy the many outdoor attractions. Save Motiongate for the hottest part of the day, as the park features more indoor sights. Expect temperatures to top 100°F (38°C) degrees from June to September.
Fireworks by the River
While Dubai Parks and Resorts doesn’t currently offer a nightly fireworks display, the resort does host a fireworks show, called Fireworks by the River, each Friday night at Riverland Dubai. The area isn’t ticketed, so you can come enjoy the show over coffee or dinner at one of the area’s 40 restaurants.
Address: Sheik Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Varies by season
Admission: Varies
From $ 43
Dubai Fountain
Everything’s bigger in Dubai, and that includes the Dubai Fountain on Burj Khalifa Lake in the heart of downtown. Designed by WET, the people behind the famous Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas, the Dubai Fountain holds the record for the world’s largest dancing fountain system.
The fountains extend 900 feet (275 meters) along the manmade lake, and during the dozen daily shows, high-powered water jets propel water up to 500 feet (150 meters) into the air -- the same height as a 50-story building. During a performance, as much as 22,000 gallons of water will be airborne. The sheer amount of water isn’t the only impressive feature of the fountains; the system uses 6,600 incandescent fountain lights and 25 projectors to paint images on the dancing water.
Performances take place every 30 minutes each evening, and each “dance” is different from the last, with different Arabic and world music and different water movements. You’ll find the Dubai Fountain just outside of the Dubai Mall.
Address: Financial Centre Road, Dubai Mall, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 26
Dubai Metro
One of the fastest and most convenient ways to get around Dubai is on the Metro. Opened in 2010, the public transportation system features driverless, automated trains with five cars each, including one reserved for women and children.
Two lines are operational; the Red Line mostly parallels Sheikh Zayed Road and features 29 stations with a total one-way travel time of an hour and 12 minutes, while the Green Line services 20 stations between the Dubai Airport Free Zone and Dubai Healthcare City with a round-trip time of one hour and 23 minutes. Three more lines are in the works, and some tours include metro rides to reach attractions around the city.
Both the Dubai Metro and the local bus network use rechargeable Nol Cards when it comes to fare payment. Every metro station has a ticket vending machine with instructions in English and a variety of card categories, including 10-journey tickets and unlimited day passes.
Practical Info
The Dubai Metro runs from about 6am to midnight Saturday through Thursday, but doesn’t start operation until 1pm on Fridays.
Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Varies by destination
From $ 100
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
The first national park in the United Arab Emirates, the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve offers visitors a stunning landscape of sand dunes and desert fauna. Once a huge camel farm, the land it occupies was bought by Sheik Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum in 1993, who, inspired by the national parks of South Africa, decided that Dubai needed its own reserve. The reserve is a must-visit for adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts, with its rolling dunes setting the scene for thrill-seekers to experience fat-bike riding, off-roading, camel trekking, sandboarding, and falcon demonstrations.
The Basics
The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve offers one of the the UAE’s best opportunities for viewing native wildlife and experiencing the adventure possibilities of the inland desert. Options are plentiful, including morning dune drives, hot air balloon flights over the Arabian desert, private desert safaris, and outdoor dinners in a Bedouin-inspired camp. To visit, you must book a guided tour with round-trip transportation from an approved operator—both half-day and full-day tours are available.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Guided tours from Dubai last anywhere from two to seven hours, depending on the option chosen.
- Remember to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, as the reserve offers very little shade.
- Drink plenty of water—it’s easy to get dehydrated in this arid environment.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes, particularly if you’re participating in adventure activities.
How to Get There
The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is situated about 37 miles (60 kilometers) outside of Dubai, a journey of about 45 minutes by road.
When to Get There
For the best weather—temperatures around 80°F (27°C)—visit the Dubai Desert (or anywhere in the United Arab Emirates for that matter) between November and March. Occasional rain showers occur from January to March, but they rarely last for long. Those who opt for a summer visit should expect highs well over 80°F (38°C).
Flora and Fauna of the Desert Reserve
While it may not look like it at first glance, the desert is teeming with life. Among the many critters that call the dunes home are the sand cat, Gordon’s wildcat, Arabian red fox, sand fox, gazelle, Arabian hare, hedgehog, and the pygmy shrew. Even the plants are colorful and diverse, with several species of trees, flowering shrubs, herbs, and grasses. The true success story of the national park is that of the Arabian oryx, a species of antelope. Before the park was established in 2003, the Arabian oryx was close to extinction. Today, well over 100 live here.
Address: E-66, Murqqab, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Varies
From $ 79
Dubai Spice Souk
Dubai may have the world’s largest shopping mall, but for many visitors, the best shopping is found in the city’s traditional souks, or markets. Each of these historic markets specializes in one product or category of products, and one of Dubai’s most famous (and most pungent) souks is the Spice Souk.
Located in the eastern part of Dubai next to the Gold Souk, the Spice Souk includes a small area of narrow lanes lined by small shops selling almost any spice you can imagine. Huge bags and bins of colorful and fragrant spices -- everything from frankincense and saffron to dried chillies -- overflow into the streets. You’ll also find shops selling incense and sheesha, a type of tobacco smoked in a water pipe.
If you come to buy spices, be prepared to haggle; knowing your basic numbers in Arabic will help. Even if you’re not in the market for spices, a trip to the Spice Souk is worth an hour of your time just to soak up the atmosphere of one of the few remaining places where you can catch a glimpse of a more traditional Dubai.
Address: D 85, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 27
Bastakia Quarter (Bur Bastakia)
South of Dubai Creek, the Bastakia Quarter—aka the Al Fahidi Historic District—is comprised of wind tower (barjeel) houses, courtyards, and lanes dating from the late 1800s when Persian merchants first settled the area. As Dubai’s oldest district, it’s filled with museums and cultural attractions.
The Basics
Named after the south Iran town of Bastak by its Persian settlers, Bastakia is a web of restored mud-and-stone houses, squares, and narrow alleys. Among them are wind tower houses, whose towers circulate breezes around the interiors, plus museums, art galleries, shops, and cafes. Explore for an authentic feel of bygone Dubai, when the city was little more than a small pearl-trading port.
Many city tours that encompass Old Dubai include Bastakia, often as a brief stop after Dubai Museum, in the nearby 19th-century Al Fahidi Fort. Tours devoted to Dubai’s heritage usually incorporate a stroll through Bastakia, while others focus wholly on walking tours around the enclave. Other travelers come here independently to relax and explore.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Bastakia is a must for history fans, art buffs, and souvenir hunters keen on uncovering Old Dubai.
- Opt to explore on a guided walk, as part of a tour, or independently.
- Bring comfy shoes and sunscreen to browse the lanes and squares.
- Combine a walk here with a visit to Dubai Museum, located in nearby Al Fahidi Fort.
- Admission to Bastakia is free, so you can come and go as you wish.
How to Get There
Driving to Bastakia isn’t ideal as there’s only limited parking nearby. Cabs are best: Ask for a drop-off where Al Mankhool Road meets Al Fahidi Street in Bur Dubai. Alternatively, catch the metro or bus to its relevant Al Fahidi stops, or ride an abra water taxi from Deira Old Souk dock to Bur Dubai dock. Bastakia is a 15-minute walk from all three, which may be too much in summer’s heat.
When to Get There
Bastakia is open all day, every day, although its museums and shops follow their own opening times. To enjoy the quarter at its best, visit between 9am and 2pm, Sundays–Thursdays, when the museums and attractions are open. It’s also good for evening strolling, when some cafes are still open and you can admire the creekside sunset.
Tips for Exploring Bastakia
While in Bastakia, you can also visit the Coin Museum, explore the roots of Arabic coffee at the Coffee Museum, or peruse the craft shops and galleries that showcase local artists. Finish with a lemon-and-mint drink—a Dubai classic—at a cafe.
Address: Al Fahidi Street, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Free
From $ 26
Al Bithnah Fort
Al Bithnah Fort, located in the village of Al Bithnah 8 miles (13 kilometers) west of Fujairah City, was built in 1735 in response to Wahhabi invasions and to protect the strategically important trade route through Wadi Ham in the eastern region of the United Arab Emirates. The original fort was destroyed and rebuilt at least twice during its long history and has recently been renovated to its former glory.
Bigger than many of the other forts in Fujairah Emirate, the views of the surrounding mountains from the top of the circular Al Bithnah Fort tower make it worth a visit.
Practical Info
Al Bithnah Fort is free to enter, and sometimes the gate guard will show visitors around.
Address: Al Bithnah, United Arab Emirates
From $ 64
Dubai Marina
Carved along the Gulf shoreline south of Dubai’s The Palm island, Dubai Marina is a skyscraper-packed waterfront community that’s one of the city’s swishest residential and leisure hotspots. At its heart is a 2-mile (3-kilometer) waterway framed by residential blocks, hotels, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
The Basics
Built during the 2000s, Dubai Marina is one of Dubai’s busiest leisure districts; visitors head here to relax, shop, sightsee, and eat. While strolling along the palm-dotted 4.3-mile (7-kilometer) Marina Walk, you’ll see skyscrapers, million-dollar yachts, and traditional dhows. Top attractions include the Dubai Marina Mall, the Dubai Marina Yacht Club, sightseeing cruises, and the nearby Walk at JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence), a beachfront shopping and dining promenade.
Many people visit the marina as part of a Dubai city tour, stopping to see the waterway with the benefit of a guide and without the hassle of having to arrange transport. Others join a dinner cruise or hop aboard a luxury yacht.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dubai Marina is a must-visit for sightseers, shoppers, and sailing and architecture buffs.
- Bring sunglasses and suncrean if you plan to stroll along Dubai Marina Walk—there’s not much shade.
- Most Dubai city tours include a brief stop at the marina so you can take in the skyscrapers and yachts.
How to Get There
The easiest way to Dubai Marina is to step off the metro at the DAMAC or Jumeirah Lakes Tower stations. You can wander to the marina from either or catch a metro shuttle bus to the waterside. Otherwise, jump in a cab or a number 8 Dubai public bus.
When to Get There
Dubai Marina’s mix of outdoor and indoor attractions make it perfect year-round. It’s popular in the evenings, when many people stroll the Marina Walk to see the illuminated towers and boats and absorb the relaxed vibe over drinks and dinner. For daytime walks or shopping, avoid the crowds and hottest sun by arriving early.
Other Attractions at Dubai Marina
Visitors tend to make a beeline for the 140 stores and restaurants at Dubai Marina Mall or spend their time watching the yachts from a waterside café. Many also head to the north end to take in the super-high, twisted Cayan Tower, while adventure-lovers book rides on the zipline, swooshing along the cable high above the waterway.
Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 45
Dubai Gold Souk
Dubai’s internationally famous Gold Souk has its roots in the 1940s, when Indian and Iranian traders began setting up stalls in the area. Today it’s one of the world’s busiest jewelry markets, with hundreds of shops and stalls selling just about everything that glitters—namely, gold. An estimated 20 percent of the world’s gold passes through the souk, with a whopping 10 tons for sale in the market at any given moment.
The Basics
While visitors shopping for gold can land some incredible deals in the Dubai Gold Souk, even non-shoppers will be impressed by the sheer spectacle of it. The souk is a popular stop on guided city shopping city tours, which help visitors navigate the more than 300 retailers. Many comprehensive city tours include a visit to the Dubai Gold Souk along with trips to the Dubai Museum, Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah, Burj al Arab, and Burj Khalifa; the souk is also a stop on double-decker, hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus tours.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Dubai Gold Souk is a must for shopping enthusiasts.
- Be prepared for a bit of friendly haggling to land the best deals.
- Combine your visit to the Dubai Gold Souk with a sightseeing tour of the city or a visit to the nearby Spice Souk.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes—you’ll spend a lot of time on your feet.
How to Get There
Centrally located in Dubai City, the Gold Souk is easily reached via the Green Line to Al Ras metro station. It’s also a stop on hop-on hop-off tours.
When to Get There
The Gold Souk is open from 10am to 10pm Saturday through Thursday with limited (if any) hours on Fridays. The shops within the market often close between 1 and 4pm, so plan your visit accordingly.
Getting the Best Deals
There are plenty of deals to be had at the Gold Souk if you know a few key things. Before you go, look up, or ask your hotel concierge for, the current price of gold, as this fluctuates daily. As long as you stick to the shops rather than the street vendors, there’s no need to worry about the authenticity of the gold for sale; the Dubai government maintains strict regulations. Don’t be afraid to shop around a bit before you buy, and remember that friendly haggling is expected—and you can often negotiate a better price by paying in cash.
Address: 54 Al Khor Street, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Sat-Thurs 10am-10pm, Fri 4pm-10pm
From $ 27
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Within the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is no stranger to superlatives, including the world’s largest collection of sand sharks and one of the world’s largest acrylic panel viewing platforms. Numerous marine habitats, including an underwater tunnel, house 33,000 marine animals, from crocodiles to tropical fish.
The Basics
The Dubai Aquarium, home to the world’s largest suspended aquarium, also ranks among Dubai’s most popular family attractions. You can choose between two admission packages: the Researcher Experience, which includes a guided behind-the-scenes tour of the Underwater Observatory, or the Explorer Experience, which includes a glass-bottom boat tour and a submersible simulator experience. Add-ons offer the opportunity to interact with sea otters, rays, or King Croc, the aquarium’s most famous resident. Guided tours of Dubai that include aquarium entrance might also feature the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Creek, and the Burj Al-Arab, depending on the option you choose. The aquarium is also an option on the Dubai Explorer Pass.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Dubai Aquarium is a must-visit for families and animal lovers.
- Much of the aquarium is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
- Give yourself at least two hours to see everything the aquarium has to offer.
- Consider booking any special experiences ahead of time to avoid lines and disappointment.
How to Get There
The Dubai Aquarium is located on the ground floor of the Dubai Mall. The easiest way to get there is to take the Dubai Metro to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station. Buses 27 and 29 also stop at the mall.
When to Get There
The Dubai Aquarium is open daily from 10am to 12am. As one of Dubai’s most popular attractions, expect long lines during the high season, from November to March. If you’re visiting Dubai in the summer months, consider visiting in the afternoon to enjoy an air-conditioned respite from the heat.
Educational Presentations
The Dubai Aquarium puts on regular presentations throughout the aquarium, where you can learn more about the animals you’re seeing. Popular sessions include ray, shark, and crocodile feedings, as well as short presentations at the otter, piranha, and penguin exhibits. Be sure to check the schedule upon arrival.
Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Open daily from 10 am to midnight
Admission: Varies
From $ 22
Bait Al Banat Women's Museum
Located in the Gold Souk area of Dubai, the Bait Al Banat Women’s Museum opened in 2012 as a project of Emirati Professor Rafia Ghubash with the aim of preserving and sharing the history of women in the United Arab Emirates and breaking down cultural stereotypes and misconceptions about women’s role in the development of the country.
Three floors of exhibit space celebrate women throughout the nation’s history, including many female artists who were pioneers in their fields. An entire hall is dedicated to Emirati poet Ousha Bint Khalifa, nicknamed ‘The Girl of the Arabs.’ Highlights of the exhibit include her hand-written poems. The Women’s Studies Centre on the second floor of the museum maintains a library and database of documents available for research in the field.
Practical Info
The Bait Al Banat Women’s Museum is closed on Fridays.
Address: Al Sabkha, Gold Souq, Near Al Khor St, Deira, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Sat-Thur 10am-7pm
From $ 45
Al Jahili Fort
Al Jahili Fort is one of the most historic buildings in the UAE and one of the region’s largest forts. Built at the end of the 19th century, it served as a summer residence for Sheikh Zayed I, the ruler of Abu Dhabi at the time.
The fort has been well preserved and carefully restored and is now a popular cultural attraction for many visitors. It’s set in beautifully landscaped gardens and is home to exhibitions dedicated to both Sheikh Zayed and Sir Wilfred Thesiger, the British explorer, writer, and photographer who crossed the ‘Empty Quarter’ desert twice in the 1940s. There is also a visitor information center on-site.
Practical Info
Al Jahili Fort is located in the southeast of Al Ain, not far from the the Al Ain Palace Museum. It’s open from 9am until 5pm from Tuesday to Thursday, and 3pm until 5pm on Fridays. The fort is closed to visitors on Mondays.
Address: Al Mutawaa, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Tue-Thur 9am-5pm, Fri 3pm-5pm
From $ 41
Dubai Dolphinarium
Enjoy a dolphin and seal show, dolphin encounters, tropical bird shows, a mirror maze, trampolines, and more at Dubai Dolphinarium at Dubai’s Creek Park. The venue was the Middle East’s first indoor air-conditioned dolphinarium when it opened in 2008, and remains a popular Dubai attraction today.
The Basics
Dubai Dolphinarium offers an array of family-friendly activities. Topping the list are the three-times-daily 45-minute dolphin and seal shows, where the marine creatures perform juggling, hoop-jumping, ball games, and even painting. Other attractions include dolphin encounter experiences, a show featuring exotic birds, a mirror maze, a 5D and 7D movie theater, trampolines, and a virtual reality experience.
Travelers who want to save time and fuss while they’re in Dubai can pre-book tickets for the shows or purchase UAE sightseeing passes that includes admission the dolphinarium as well to numerous other Dubai attractions.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Dubai Dolphinarium is a must for fun-loving families.
- Prebook for the dolphin and seal show; buy tickets for the trampolines, maze, and other entertainments direct from the venue.
- To access the dolphinarium, you’ll need to pay an entrance fee at the main gate of the Creek Park complex.
- The venue has a restaurant, gift shop, and restrooms with baby-changing units.
- Facilities for wheelchair users are good: the dolphinarium and the shows are all wheelchair-accessible.
How to Get There
Dubai Dolphinarium is located in Creek Park in Dubai’s Umm Hurair district, just south of Dubai Creek. To get here by cab, ask the driver for the Health Care City at Creek Park—the dolphinarium is next door. Otherwise, hop off the metro at the Health Care City stop and go on foot from there. Be aware, however, that it’s a half-mile (1-kilometer) walk.
When to Get There
The dolphin and seal shows start at 11am, 3pm, and 6pm Monday-Saturday, and tickets give you access to any of the three. It’s sensible to arrive 15 minutes before the start; standard seats are on a first-come, first-served basis. The dolphinarium is open 10am-7:30pm, Monday-Saturday.
What Else to Do at Dubai Dolphinarium
Why not make the most of your trip by seeing the Creek Park Bird Show? Tickets are available at the dolphinarium; performances follow the dolphin shows, with a short break in-between to relax. The 30-minute interactive shows feature parrots, macaws, cockatoos, toucans, and more.
Address: Gate 1 in Creek Park, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Varies
From $ 31
Dubai Miracle Garden
A floral wonderland of 50 million flowers, the Dubai Miracle Garden is one of the UAE's most original attractions. Branded as the world's largest natural flower garden, it boasts hundreds of flower-formed displays spread over 18 acres (7.3 hectares), all of which create an extravaganza of color and scent on the outskirts of Dubai.
The Basics
Visitors can book a tour to the gardens with round-trip transportation from Dubai. Many tours also include visits to the nearby Butterfly Garden and Dubai Global Village.
The Miracle Garden offers a multitude of floral sculptures, all created or revamped annually and open for viewing between November and May each year. The flower-formed sculptures are created from different species such as petunias, viola, geraniums, and marigolds, and shaped into everything from cartoon characters to castles, pyramids, hearts, birds, and animals. Explore the walkways around the fairy tale-like displays, whose colors and scents are lent extra intensity by the surrounding desert-and-highway landscapes and backdrop of Dubai’s skyscrapers.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Miracle Garden is great for families with kids and anyone wanting a break from urban Dubai.
- Don’t forget sunscreen—there’s not much shade—and bring your camera to capture the Instagram-worthy exhibits.
- The garden closes for summer and is typically only open from mid-November to mid-May.
- Exhibits change regularly, so don’t count on seeing a specific one from season to season.
- Food kiosks, coffee shops, kids’ playgrounds, hammocks, and restrooms are all here for breaks from the sightseeing.
How to Get There
The Dubai Miracle Garden lies in Al Barsha South 3 in the Dubailand area southeast of central Dubai. Drive south via Highway E44 before turning onto the E311 toward the Arabian Ranches. It’s possible to arrive by cab or the buses that run here from the Mall of Emirates metro station, as well as on a guided tour.
When to Get There
The garden is open mid-November to mid-May, although dates can vary. Opening hours are generally 9am to 9pm Sunday to Wednesday and 9am to 11pm Friday and Saturday. Remember, the park is closed during the summer months.
What The Kids Will Want to See at Dubai Miracle Garden
There’s plenty for youngsters at the Miracle Garden, with sculptures replicating cartoon characters, animals, and other designs. Creations include a 59-foot (18-meter) Mickey Mouse; teddy bears, frogs, and parrots; and even a life-sized floral model of an Emirates Airbus 380 airplane.
Address: Al Barsha South 3, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Varies
From $ 75
Aquaventure Waterpark
Brave water rides, see marine animals, and much more at the Aquaventure Waterpark in Dubai. One of the Middle East's biggest and best water parks, it sits next to Atlantis, The Palm resort on Palm Jumeirah island. Visit for record-breaking slides, river rides, multiple pools, and a private beach spread over 42 acres (17 hectares) of seafront.
The Basics
Aquaventure offers everything from daredevil flumes, such as the near-vertical Leap of Faith, to the world’s biggest waterslide, kids’ areas, pools, and a super-long zipline. Visitors can relax between rides at the beach, restaurants, and shops, and enjoy an optional range of marine encounters.
You can choose a standard all-day admission ticket or combine your entry with a marine encounter, such as a shark safari or ray-feeding adventure, or admission to the Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis. Other options include city tour and park admission combos and ticket-and-transfer deals that include return transport to the park.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Aquaventure is a must for water- and thrill-loving families, couples, and groups.
- Choose from multiple tickets: from all-day access to admission combined with experiences, such as ray feeding.
- Life vests are supplied, but bring your own swimwear and towels.
- Wear swimwear that’s respectful of local customs: See-through swimsuits, for instance, aren’t allowed.
- Don’t bring selfie sticks—they’re not permitted on any rides.
- Save time by prebooking tickets to avoid the often-long lines at the main ticket counter.
How to Get There
Aquaventure neighbors Atlantis, The Palm hotel, on the outer crescent of the Palm. Drive here along Crescent Road and The Avenues, or hire a cab from the nearest metro station, the Mall of the Emirates. Alternatively, ride the monorail here from Al Sufouh’s Gateway station, or book a tour that includes entry and round-trip transport from Dubai hotels.
When to Get There
Aquaventure is great for cooling off year-round. It’s busiest during Dubai’s peak November–April season, but whenever you visit, it’s sensible to arrive early to reduce waiting times. The park opens at 10am daily and closes at sunset—usually between 5:30pm and 7pm.
Finding the Top Attractions at Aquaventure
Thrill-seekers should hotfoot it to Aquaventure’s high-speed slides. Plunge down the Leap of Faith into a tube surrounded by sharks, and brave Poseidon’s Revenge: hurtling through a trapdoor into a 75-foot (23-meter) slide. Find the Leap of Faith at the Tower of Neptune and Poseidon’s Revenge further on, at the Tower of Poseidon.
Address: Crescent Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Varies
From $ 30
Dubai Mall
The world’s largest shopping mall by area, Dubai Mall boasts a huge range of attractions—making it a full-blown UAE entertainment destination. At the heart of Downtown Dubai, this 4-level colossus houses around 1,300 stores, plus restaurants, cinemas, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, and the Burj Khalifa.
The Basics
Dubai Mall’s outlets and family entertainments draw all types of visitor. The array of fashion houses, sportswear, children’s shops, and more make it an exciting shopping experience, while entertainment-seekers will love Dubai Ice Rink, Dubai Aquarium, and the Burj Khalifa ‘At The Top’ observatories. Other musts include Dubai Dino, the Jurassic-era dinosaur skeleton displayed at the Souk Dome. It's no surprise that the mall features on many Dubai tours—usually as an exterior photo op. Some tours include a guided walk and free time to shop, while others add on entry to the Burj Khalifa, Ski Dubai, or Dubai Aquarium.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dubai Mall is a must-visit for shopaholics and fun-loving families with kids.
- Expect to spend half a day or more here, perhaps on top of a visit to the Burj Khalifa or Dubai Aquarium.
- Wear comfy shoes: the mall is the size of 200 football pitches, so there’s lots of walking.
- Some shops are grouped into themed areas, such as boutiques at Fashion Avenue, footwear at Level Shoes, and jewelers at the Gold Souk.
- Free WiFi, mobile charging stations, and ATMs are available in the mall.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Dubai Mall is by cab or metro. If the latter, take the Red Line to the Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa stop, and catch a shuttle or ride the travelators on the Metro Link glass bridge—it’s a 1-mile (1.5-kilometer) trip. Frequent buses to the mall also run from Deira Gold Souk and Al Ghubaiba bus station.
When to Get There
Dubai Mall is great any time, but perhaps best in summer, when it offers cool respite from Dubai’s heat. The quietest times to explore are early after the 10am opening, and Sundays-Wednesdays before the weekends hit. Perhaps synchronize your visit with the Dubai Fountain shows outside: at 1pm and 1:30pm (1.30pm and 2pm Fridays) and half-hourly between 6pm and 11pm.
Other Attractions at Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is ringed by the attractions of Downtown Dubai, so it’s easy to combine a visit with other activities. Perhaps catch a Dubai Fountain show at the adjoining Burj Lake or relax at a waterfront restaurant outside the mall with Burj Khalifa views.
Address: Dubai Mall, Doha St, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 26
Dubai Cruise Port
Shimmering skyscrapers and towering condos rise high above smooth desert sands at this unique port in the heart of the Middle East. While indoor ski resorts, luxury hotels, white sandy beaches and duty-free shopping have made Dubai an adult wonderland, travelers can still experience some of the city’s former charm (and the natural beauty of the nearby desert) on a day excursion to this popular port.
How to Get to Dubai
Free shopping shuttles leave every hour from the port and take travelers to Mercato Mall or City Center Drive. Otherwise taxis are easy to find near the berth and can be hired for a day rate.
One Day in Dubai
Start the day exploring Dubai’s past at Dubai Creek. This landmark divides the business district from touristy sections of the city and is an ideal spot for witnessing where old meets new. Stop at the Eheikh Saeed al-Maktoum House, for a taste of Dubai before the oil trade took off. Then head to the observation deck on the 124th floor of Nurj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world—for unmatched views of the city skyline. Round out the day with a stop at Burj Al Arab, the only seven-star hotel on the planet. Visitors aren’t always welcome, but scoring a table at the chic underwater restaurant is sure to be a memorable experience.
How to Get to Dubai
Free shopping shuttles leave every hour from the port and take travelers to Mercato Mall or City Center Drive. Otherwise taxis are easy to find near the berth and can be hired for a day rate.
One Day in Dubai
Start the day exploring Dubai’s past at Dubai Creek. This landmark divides the business district from touristy sections of the city and is an ideal spot for witnessing where old meets new. Stop at the Eheikh Saeed al-Maktoum House, for a taste of Dubai before the oil trade took off. Then head to the observation deck on the 124th floor of Nurj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world—for unmatched views of the city skyline. Round out the day with a stop at Burj Al Arab, the only seven-star hotel on the planet. Visitors aren’t always welcome, but scoring a table at the chic underwater restaurant is sure to be a memorable experience.
Port Information
Dirham is the official currency of Dubai and although Arabic is the national language, English is widely spoken. The cruise terminal, much like the city itself, answers all the needs of travelers. ATMs, free Wi-Fi, a restaurant and shopping shuttles for visitors make the port a perfect spot for jumping off into the city or the desert.
Address: Cruise Terminal, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 47