Choose from 78 Fun Things to Do in United Arab Emirates
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Al Ain Oasis
In the heart of Al Ain, a garden-filled city located 100 miles (160 kilometers) east of Abu Dhabi, you’ll find the Al Ain Oasis. The largest green space in the emirate of Abu Dhabi offers a welcome respite from the clamor and heat of the country’s fourth largest city. Locals and visitors alike come here to wander the shady, palm-lined paths past the water channels of the ancient irrigation system that once brought water to local farmers.
As you explore the 3,000-acre (1,200-hectare) space, you’ll be shaded by more than 100 varieties of date palms--nearly 150,000 of them. Rent a bike or throw on some walking shoes and give yourself a few hours to enjoy the winding brick-paved trails.
As you explore the 3,000-acre (1,200-hectare) space, you’ll be shaded by more than 100 varieties of date palms--nearly 150,000 of them. Rent a bike or throw on some walking shoes and give yourself a few hours to enjoy the winding brick-paved trails.
Address: Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
From $ 57
Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital
Usually, it’s bad news when your vacation includes a trip to the hospital, but that’s not always the case in Abu Dhabi. The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital is one of the city’s more bizarre yet fascinating attractions. The world’s first and largest hospital dedicated to the predatory bird opened in 1999 under the direction of a prominent German veterinary surgeon.
About 6,000 birds pass through each year, occupying the 200 air-conditioned treatment rooms. This might seem strange until you understand that the sport of falconry has deep roots in the city. The sport is so popular that falcons are even issued passports and the prized animals can cost tens of thousands of dollars. If a falcon loses even one strand of feather, they can experience balance issues in flight so their owners bring them to the hospital for checkups, treatments and feather substitutions regularly.
Guided tours of the facility provide insight into the history of the sport and the physiology of this graceful bird. You’ll be able to see the birds swoop through a free-flight aviary, witness a falcon pedicure and feel the weight of one as it perches on your arm.
About 6,000 birds pass through each year, occupying the 200 air-conditioned treatment rooms. This might seem strange until you understand that the sport of falconry has deep roots in the city. The sport is so popular that falcons are even issued passports and the prized animals can cost tens of thousands of dollars. If a falcon loses even one strand of feather, they can experience balance issues in flight so their owners bring them to the hospital for checkups, treatments and feather substitutions regularly.
Guided tours of the facility provide insight into the history of the sport and the physiology of this graceful bird. You’ll be able to see the birds swoop through a free-flight aviary, witness a falcon pedicure and feel the weight of one as it perches on your arm.
Address: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Mondays - Thursdays: 8am to 3pm
Sundays: 8am to 3pm
From $ 143
Abu Dhabi Cruise Port
Towering skyscrapers, modern high rises and brilliant flashing lights greet travelers who dock at this urban port. Abu Dhabi, the largest and wealthiest of the emirates, is ripe with ornate royal palaces, high-end shopping and even a Ferrari World theme park, but travelers looking to experience old-world wonder can get it by going beyond city limits.
How to Get to Abu Dhabi
These streets aren’t made for walking and public buses, though readily available and inexpensive, can be somewhat uncomfortable. Visitors can hire taxis for cheap, including pink cars that signal to tourists they are for females only. It’s also possible to rent a car in the cruise terminal. Signs in English and Arabic make roads easy to navigate, although parking can be a headache.
One Day in Abu Dhabi
Get a taste of Abu Dhabi’s unmatched wealth with a trip to some of its most impressive architectural wonders. Start with a visit to Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Grand Mosque—the largest of its kind in the U.A.E. Opened in 2007, this place of prayer can accommodate up to 40,000 people. Its interior is decorated with crystal chandeliers, Murano glass, polished marble and the world’s largest hand-woven carpet. Then continue on to the Emirates Palace—a five-story luxury hotel that cost approximately $3 billion to build. Enjoy afternoon tea before wandering the impressive halls lined with Persian carpets and more than one thousand chandeliers. The hotel even has an ATM that vends gold at the going rate.
How to Get to Abu Dhabi
These streets aren’t made for walking and public buses, though readily available and inexpensive, can be somewhat uncomfortable. Visitors can hire taxis for cheap, including pink cars that signal to tourists they are for females only. It’s also possible to rent a car in the cruise terminal. Signs in English and Arabic make roads easy to navigate, although parking can be a headache.
One Day in Abu Dhabi
Get a taste of Abu Dhabi’s unmatched wealth with a trip to some of its most impressive architectural wonders. Start with a visit to Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Grand Mosque—the largest of its kind in the U.A.E. Opened in 2007, this place of prayer can accommodate up to 40,000 people. Its interior is decorated with crystal chandeliers, Murano glass, polished marble and the world’s largest hand-woven carpet. Then continue on to the Emirates Palace—a five-story luxury hotel that cost approximately $3 billion to build. Enjoy afternoon tea before wandering the impressive halls lined with Persian carpets and more than one thousand chandeliers. The hotel even has an ATM that vends gold at the going rate.
Port Information
Ships dock at Mina Zayed, which is a 15-minute walk to the waterfront promenade. Because of the port’s industrial nature, it’s best to take a taxi to the nearby exit gate. Travelers have access to a visitor desk, ATM, Wi-Fi and a few shops inside the terminal. Dirham is the official currency and most people speak both Arabic and English. ATMs can be found in most shopping malls and hotels often exchange money for travelers. Women should avoid wearing tank tops and shorts. Men who plan to visit mosques will not be allowed in wearing shorts.
Address: Mina Zayed Port, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
From $ 65
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
Abu Dhabi Heritage Village
Located on the Corniche Breakwater, the Emirates Heritage Club runs a reconstructed traditional village demonstrating the lifestyles and traditions of the cultures native to the Arabian Peninsula. If you’ve ever wondered what Abu Dhabi was like before the discovery of oil transformed it into a pocket of extreme wealth, you’ll get a glimpse here.
Come in the morning before it gets too hot to explore the open-air museum. Enter a traditional goats’ hair tent and learn about the ancient falaj irrigation system that allowed desert dwellers to begin cultivating crops. Local craftsworkers conduct workshops in traditional metalwork, pottery, spinning and weaving. The traditional mosque is a far cry from the palatial white marble Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, demonstrating just how far the United Arab Emirates have come.
Be sure to stop by the gift shop during your visit. You’ll be able to pick up local herbs and spices as well as items made by the local artisans working in the village.
Come in the morning before it gets too hot to explore the open-air museum. Enter a traditional goats’ hair tent and learn about the ancient falaj irrigation system that allowed desert dwellers to begin cultivating crops. Local craftsworkers conduct workshops in traditional metalwork, pottery, spinning and weaving. The traditional mosque is a far cry from the palatial white marble Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, demonstrating just how far the United Arab Emirates have come.
Be sure to stop by the gift shop during your visit. You’ll be able to pick up local herbs and spices as well as items made by the local artisans working in the village.
Address: Heritage Village, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Saturdays - Thursdays: 9am to 5pm; Fridays 3:30pm to 9pm
From $ 25
Al Ain Zoo
Al Ain Zoo is a popular stop for travelers and families who want to learn more about local wildlife and national conservation efforts. The exhibits of this well-kept zoo are stocked with more than 4,000 animals and a handful of add-ons offer visitors a chance to get up close to the wild in a truly unique way. Giraffe feedings, parrot shows and group talks with Al Ain zookeepers provide an opportunity to learn more about the interesting animals, well-kept habitats and preservation efforts taking place here. Exciting exhibits like the Mixed Asian show, which includes gazelle species like Chital, Nilgai and Blackbuck; as well as the nocturnal house and Mixed African exhibit showcase animals not just from UAE, but from across the globe as well.
Practical Info
The zoo is located an hour and a half drive from Abu Dhabi and Dubai. It is open daily from 9 a.m. until 4 p.m. October through April and from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. May through September. Admission prices are AED30 for adults and AED10 for children ages 3- 12. Al Ain Zoo dress code says shoulders and knees should be covered and shawls will be provided if necessary.
Address: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Adults: AED30; Children: AED10
From $ 57
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 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
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
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 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
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
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 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
Al Ain National Museum
Situated on the edge of Al Ain Oasis in the same complex as the Sultan Bin Zayed Fort (Eastern Fort), the Al Ain National Museum serves to showcase the unique heritage and ancient history of this region.
Divided into three distinct sections – Archaeology, Ethnography, and Gifts – the museum's main themes explore the various aspects of UAE history and everyday life. The archaeology displays are particularly extensive, with artefacts dating back to the first millennium BC, including weapons, jewellery, pottery, and coins that were excavated from ancient tomb sites nearby.
The ethnography galleries focus on the various aspects of the life of the Bedu desert dwellers, including exhibits on education, marriage, and farming, while the gift section refers to the gifts that Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan received throughout his lifetime. These include Bedouin jewellery, musical instruments, a silver dagger, and even a golden palm tree.
The Al Ain National Museum is located next to the Sultan (or Eastern) Fort on the eastern side of the Al Ain Oasis. There is a bus from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai to Al Ain Bus Station, which is a good spot for accessing the region’s historical sites. The journey time from Dubai is around two hours.
Address: Zayed bin Sultan Street, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Open 8am-7:30pm (closed on Mondays) and Friday 3pm-7:30pm
Admission: Adults: AED 3; Children (under 10): AED 1
From $ 41
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 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 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 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