Choose from 78 Fun Things to Do in United Arab Emirates
ShowingFilter 21-40 of 78 listings.
Emirates National Auto Museum
The Emirates National Auto Museum is home to the private collection of Sheikh Hamad Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan and exhibits more than 200 unique and classic vehicles.
Set within a pyramid-shaped building, there’s a workshop located around the back of the main museum. All of the exhibits are in excellent condition, and car lovers will rejoice at this fascinating collection, which features everything from 4x4 vehicles and racing cars to classic American motors. It’s also home to a steam-powered Mercedes from 1885, along with what is considered to be the world's largest truck.
In 1983 the Sheikh bought seven Mercedes, one for each day of the week, which he had painted the colors of the rainbow. All seven are on display in the museum and each is kitted out with such conveniences as TVs and refrigerators.
Practical Info
The Emirates National Auto Museum is around an hour’s drive south of Abu Dhabi on Hamim Road off the E11. It’s open daily from 9am until 6pm.
Address: Hameem, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Open daily from 9am until 6pm.
Admission: AED 50, Children Under 10 are free
From $ 73
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
Central Market
Abu Dhabi’s Central Market is a contemporary, air-conditioned take on the traditional souk style markets. Located on one of the oldest sites in the city, the market is something of a paradoxical shopping mall, combining luxury shops and boutiques with food markets and local craft-based outlets. The old souk that once stood here was destroyed in a fire, and developers have rebuilt a chic shopping and leisure mall with an authentic twist.
Both the shopping experience and the architecture of the Central Market are certainly unique. The interior is influenced by the region, with wooden lattices allowing sunlight to bounce off fountains and seep into squares and courtyards amid hints of greenery. There is a good mix of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore, with plenty of local goods and souvenirs to be found amid the many outlets.
Practical Info
Abu Dhabi’s Central Market is located in the busy downtown area of the city, just off the famous Hamdan Street.
Address: Hamdan Street, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Open Sun-Thurs: 10am-10pm and Fri-Sat: 10am-11pm
From $ 49
Badiyah Mosque
Located in Fujairah Emirate, Badiyah Mosque is the oldest existing mosque in the United Arab Emirates. Archaeologists are unsure when exactly the place of worship was built, but expert estimates date buildings anywhere from 1446 BC to 640 AD. The small, squarish mosque was constructed from local materials — stone and ruddy mud — and despite its age, it continues to function as a working mosque with regular prayer services.
While visiting the Badiyah Mosque, leave some time for a quick trip up to the Al Bithnah Fort, notable for its beautiful vistas over the surrounding scenery. Visitors are required to wear conservative clothing (no shorts or bare shoulders) to get inside.
Practical Info
Badiyah Mosque can be visited on a day trip from Dubai.
Address: Fujairah, United Arab Emirates
From $ 64
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
Bedouin Camps
The Bedouin people are a desert-dwelling ethnic group found throughout the Arabian peninsula. Located in the dunes of the Dubai Desert far from any signs of permanent human habitation, Bedouin camps offer visitors a glimpse into what it might have been like for a Bedouin family trying to survive in the harsh desert landscape up until about 40 years ago.
The Basics
While rapid modernization throughout the region has led a majority of the former Bedouin herders and nomadic traders to seek new livelihoods in the cities, these camps make it possible for visitors to continue to learn about Bedouin heritage. A typical family-friendly evening will include a barbecue dinner, shared while seated on Arabian rugs, Bedouin tea, a belly dancing performance, and a group conversation while smoking a hookah (a water pipe used to smoke shisha, a molasses-based tobacco). Those who want to extend the experience can spent the night sleeping under the stars in a Bedouin tent. To make the most of your desert experience, combine your camp visit with a camel ride or sand-boarding excursion.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A visit to a Bedouin camp is a must for adventure travelers, families, and first-time visitors to Dubai.
- Bedouin camp tours from Dubai can last anywhere from five hours to overnight, depending on which option you choose.
- Be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, especially for daytime activities in the desert.
- Don’t forget a light jacket; the desert often cools significantly once the sun goes down.
How to Get There
The easiest way to get to a traditional Bedouin camp is by booking a guided tour that includes roundtrip transportation from Dubai.
When to Get There
With high temperatures around 80°F (26°C), winter is the ideal time for a desert safari. In summer (April to October), expect high humidity and daytime temperatures upwards of 100°F (38°C).
The Bedouin People of the UAE
The Bedouin, a group that adapted to the harsh conditions while herding camels, goats, and sheep, are the earliest known inhabitants of the UAE’s vast desert regions. They often used camels both for transportation and for milk. To learn more about Bedouin history before your camp experience, visit the Dubai Museum.
Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 60
Chillout Ice Lounge
With temperatures in Dubai often reaching heights of 50 degrees Celsius the opportunity to relax in subzero temperatures in the middle of the city is a unique one. The Chillout Ice Lounge is located inside the famous Times Square Center in the city. Refurbished in 2014, it features dramatic ice sculptures, seating and tables made of ice, plus ambient diffused lighting to set the tone in the minus-six-degrees climate.
On arrival at the Chillout Ice Lounge all visitors are issued with a complimentary welcome drink and thermal clothing. You will also be advised to spend a few minutes acclimatizing in a buffer zone area set to five degrees before venturing into the main lounge. Once in the lounge, you can order soup, sandwiches, juice, hot chocolate, tea and coffee, plus a variety of desserts and mocktails.
The lighting in the Chillout Ice Lounge changes color intermittently, filtering through blocks of ice and making it a romantic setting for couples. The venue also holds a magic show for children on several days of the week, making it ideal for families, although it is not advisable to take infants under the age of one.
The most convenient way to enjoy Dubai's Chillout Ice Lounge is by joining an organized tour that includes entrance fees and hotel pickup and drop off.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour, reservations are recommended and can be made via the venue’s website. Be sure to wear clothing that covers your legs for your visit as thermal pants are not provided.
Did You Know? Launched in 2007 by Sharaf Hospitality, the Chillout Ice Lounge in Dubai is the first ice lounge in the Middle East.
Address: Times Square Center, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Sat-Wed 10am-10pm; Thurs-Fri 10am-midnight
Admission: Adults: AED 75; Children: AED 35
From $ 185
Bur Dubai Village
Bur Dubai Village, located near the mouth of Dubai Creek, takes visitors back in time through a series of heritage villages complete with recreated architecture and local artisans practicing their crafts using traditional techniques. For shoppers, the village is a great place to find unique, handmade items to take home as souvenirs or gifts.
Long before the skyscrapers and palm-shaped islands, Dubai’s economy relied heavily on pearling. Teams of men would spend months at a time at sea diving for the rose-colored pearls produced in the Persian Gulf. One of the most unique experiences at the Bur Dubai Village is the opportunity to learn more about the city’s pearl diving culture and watch a demonstration of how it’s done.
Bur Dubai Village is open every day of the week, but Friday hours are limited and many of the shop will be closed. After you’ve toured the heritage village, set aside some time for a meal or drink by the waterside.
Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 39
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 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
Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building on the planet, soaring 2,717 feet (828 meters) high with more than 160 stories set in a stepped design that narrows as it climbs, syringe-like, to the sky. The design is patterned after the repetition of a single geometric shape, meant to echo Islamic art. Bringing a new meaning to the term skyscraper, the building is part of the massive downtown Dubai complex of offices, hotels, shopping malls, entertainment precincts, and apartment buildings.
When to Get There
The Basics
With a Burj Khalifa admission ticket, travelers can ride the high-speed elevator to the 124th-floor At the Top observation deck for stunning 360-degree views over Dubai and the Persian Gulf. It's also possible to ride to the exclusive, 125th-floor and then go even higher to the 148th-floor At the Top SKY deck (the tallest viewing platform in the world at 1,821 feet or 555 meters), watching a multimedia presentation on the way and then taking in the sights through the deck's floor-to-ceiling glass walls. If you'd rather not get so high, wander through through the gardens and fountains of Burj Khalifa Park, or shop till you drop at the Dubai Mall, located inside the building. Along with a huge variety of shops such as Galeries Lafayette, Bloomingdale's, and Marks & Spencer, the mall features an aquarium, ice rink, Sega theme park, and movie theater.
With a Burj Khalifa admission ticket, travelers can ride the high-speed elevator to the 124th-floor At the Top observation deck for stunning 360-degree views over Dubai and the Persian Gulf. It's also possible to ride to the exclusive, 125th-floor and then go even higher to the 148th-floor At the Top SKY deck (the tallest viewing platform in the world at 1,821 feet or 555 meters), watching a multimedia presentation on the way and then taking in the sights through the deck's floor-to-ceiling glass walls. If you'd rather not get so high, wander through through the gardens and fountains of Burj Khalifa Park, or shop till you drop at the Dubai Mall, located inside the building. Along with a huge variety of shops such as Galeries Lafayette, Bloomingdale's, and Marks & Spencer, the mall features an aquarium, ice rink, Sega theme park, and movie theater.
Just about every Dubai city tour stops at the exterior of the Burj Khalifa, with some including tickets to the Burj Khalifa observation decks. Comprehensive tours of Dubai, the most modern city in the United Arab Emirates, often also stop at other top Dubai attractions such as the Dubai desert (for a desert safari or dune bashing), Ski Dubai, the Dubai Aquarium, the Dubai Fountain, and the Burj Al-Arab.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to the Burj Khalifa
Previously known as Burj Dubai, the iconic Burj Khalifa is located at the First Interchange on Sheikh Zayed Road, not too far from the central business district. Taxis and buses run along Sheikh Zayed Road, the Red Line metro stops here and a free shuttle runs from major hotels.
- Burj Khalifa tickets are required to access the structure's observation decks.
- An At the Top admission ticket includes access to levels 124 and 125, while an At the Top SKY ticket allows access to levels 124, 125, and 148.
- Kids under 4 years old enter free.
Previously known as Burj Dubai, the iconic Burj Khalifa is located at the First Interchange on Sheikh Zayed Road, not too far from the central business district. Taxis and buses run along Sheikh Zayed Road, the Red Line metro stops here and a free shuttle runs from major hotels.
When to Get There
Both ticket options have prime and non-prime hours, with higher prices during prime hours. For At the Top tickets, prime hours are from 3:30pm to 6pm daily; for At the Top SKY, prime hours are from opening until 6pm.
Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Daily
Admission: AED 125-300
From $ 17
Dhayah Fort
Even though the United Arab Emirates has many historic forts, Dhayah Fort in Ras Al Khaimah is the only hilltop, fortified castle that’s located up in the mountains. When the Al Qawasim tribe was battling the British in the early 19th century, this isolated fort in the northern emirate was the last holdout before eventually falling in December 1819. More recently it housed the royal family until 1964, and after a very short period as a local prison, was opened to the general public as a place to celebrate Emirati history. With its tall, strong, fortified walls, the Dhayah Fort was specifically built for warding off invaders, though travelers today are welcome to climb to the top and enjoy the view. There aren’t really any artifacts on display—just a brief history of the fort—and the jewelry and artifacts that have been uncovered are displayed inside of the National Museum. If you visit as part of a full-day tour of Ras Al Khaimah emirate, your local guide will relay the battles and history behind the fort, and provide a lot more color to the visit—as if the walls could talk.
Insider's Tip: The Dhayah Fort can be a little hard to find and blends in with the desert surroundings. It’s best to visit with a guided tour, or if traveling on your own, follow the signs for Dhayah guest house, which is located across the street.
Practical Info
Dhayah Fort is located 8.5 miles and 15 minutes northeast of Ras Al Kaimah. Reaching the top requires climbing up over 220 steps, so it’s best to avoid the heat of the day—especially when visiting in summer.
Address: Dhaya Fort, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Daylight hours
From $ 200
Fujairah Fort
Fujairah Fort, the oldest fort in the United Arab Emirates dating back to 1670, was built from mud, wood, gravel and gypsum on a rocky outcrop where it protected the old village and valuable date palm oasis from invaders. The historic structure was damaged by an attack by the British in the early 20th century, but it was recently resorted to its former state.
Surrounding the Fujairah Fort, the Fujairah Department of Archaeology and Heritage has set up a Heritage Village, where visitors can stroll through resorted historic houses filled with exhibits on the traditional lifestyle of Fujairah’s ancient residents.
Practical Info
The recently restored Fujairah Fort is free to the public. Plan you visit for evening to see the setting sun bring out the orange and red hues in the brick and bud buildings.
Address: Fujairah, United Arab Emirates
From $ 180
Atlantis Palm Hotel
In Dubai, a hotel can be considered a top tourist attraction, and that’s certainly the case with the extravagant Atlantis Palm Hotel. The 1,539-room, ocean-themed resort occupies the top portion of the crescent of land surrounding the man-made Palm Islands, just off the coast of Dubai, and it includes 42 acres (17 hectares) of amusement and entertainment space. Even if you’re not a resort guest, it’s worthwhile to spend a day enjoying everything it has to offer.
The Basics
Many of the attractions are aquatic in nature. Prebook tickets to Aquaventure Waterpark, which houses 42 rides and attractions, including a near-vertical body slide. Dolphin Bay brings guests face-to-face with some of the ocean’s most endearing creatures, while a ticket to the Lost Chambers Aquarium sends you on a journey through mythical Atlantis, surrounding by thousands of marine animals, with upgrades available to scuba diving and ray feeding experiences. The Atlantis Palm Hotel also hosts some of the world’s top luxury brands in its extensive retail space, and more than a dozen restaurants, a pair of nightclubs, and a spa with 27 treatment rooms round out the offerings.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The hotel is a must-see for animal lovers and first-time visitors to Dubai.
- Choose among a range of activities and tour options, including aquarium entry, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
- Experiences at the Atlantis Palm Hotel can last anywhere from 30 minutes to a full day.
- Out of respect for local customs, a cover-up over swimwear is requested when visitors are walking around the resort.
How to Get There
To get to the Atlantis Palm Hotel, take the Dubai metro to Mall of the Emirates Station. From there, it’s a short taxi ride to the hotel.
When to Get There
Dubai’s warm weather means there’s no bad time to visit the Atlantis Palm Hotel. Many of the attractions are indoors and air-conditioned, and the waterpark offers ample opportunity to cool off on a hot day.
Things to Do on Dubai’s Palm Islands and the World
Dubai’s offshore islands have become some of the city’s most recognizable landmarks, and there are plenty of ways to experience them. See them from above aboard a helicopter or seaplane, or gaze down from the Burj Khalifa Observation Deck. From the Dubai Marina, speedboats, Jet Skis, and rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) zip visitors out to the Palm archipelago to see the islands and the towering Atlantis Palm Hotel from the water.
Address: Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 30
Global Village
In the past year some 5 million people visited Dubai’s Global Village—a bright lights entertainment hub with games, rides, food and fun. Travelers can find world-class shopping, a wide array of restaurants and live shows that range from cultural dance to daredevil stuntmen at this amusement park place in the heart of UAE.
Global Village highlights not only what makes Dubai’s culture and traditions so unique, but the UAE’s love of glitter and glam, too. Still, visitors agree that entertainment options here stretch far beyond the local flavor. Kid-friendly shows cater to a younger set, while international concerts and street performers offer something for the adults in the crowd, too. And for those who want to ride the rides, dozens of amusement park-style options are available for children, families and thrill-seekers.
Practical Info
Global Village is off of Exit 37, near Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road. It is accessible via public bus 103 from Union Station and 104 from Al Ghubaiba Station. The park is open Saturday through Wednesday from 4 p.m. until 12 a.m. and Thursdays and Fridays from 4 p.m. until 1 a.m.
Address: Sheik Mohammed Bin Zayed Rd, Exit No. 37, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: General Admission: AED 15
From $ 4
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
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
Emirates Park Zoo
With 1,700 animals, the Emirates Park Zoo in Abu Dhabi is home to a variety of species, from local goats to the more exotic savannah lions and cheetahs. Located close to the city, it is the perfect way to spend a day out with the family, with a petting zoo and sea lion show providing entertainment for the kids.
From admiring the rare and impressive white tigers to feeding giraffes and elephants under the guidance of trained zoo professionals, there is something for everyone here. The zoo aspires to play its part in conservation and as such wants to encourage children and adults alike to learn more about the challenges of wildlife in the modern world. The site is split into several sections, including the bird park, primate parade, the aquarium, and snake alley. Several areas are indoors and air-conditioned, meaning the zoo can be visited all year round.
From Abu Dhabi, the easiest way to visit the Emirates Park Zoo is to book a day tour that includes hotel pickup and drop off. Traveling with a private guide makes it a unique experience, giving you an insight into the lives of the animals as well as ample free time to walk around and explore the zoo at your own pace.
Practical Info
If not arriving as part of an organized tour, you can reach the zoo by taking a metered taxi or regional bus from the city.
Did You Know? The Emirates Park Zoo has a unique and unusual guest, Jasper the cheetah. Rescued with other cheetah cubs from smugglers selling them as pets, Jasper has developed a quirky skill as a painter. His paintings are sold to the public and all the profits go towards conservation.
Address: 12th Street, Al Bahya, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Sunday-Wednesday 9am-8pm; Thursday-Saturday 9am-9pm
Admission: Adult: 30 AED / Child: 20 AED / Child under two: Free
From $ 11
Burj Al-Arab
The sail-like silhouette of the Burj Al-Arab has become a symbol of Dubai's opulence and affluence, standing at 1,053 feet (321 meters) as the third-tallest hotel and one of the most luxurious hotels in the United Arab Emirates. Opened in 1999, the landmark boasts plenty of superlatives, including its five-star status.
The Basics
Besides shelling out to stay the night at the Burj Al-Arab, visitors have plenty of other options for viewing and touring the sumptuous landmark, which can be spotted from numerous spots around Dubai. Snap a shot of the soaring Jumeirah Beach hotel jutting out to sea on a city sightseeing tour or on a boat cruise.
When to Get There
Entering the Burj Al-Arab requires reservations, and grabbing cocktails at the Skyview Bar proves the most budget-friendly way to get inside (must be booked in advance).
Dubai's Sky-High Attractions
The Basics
Besides shelling out to stay the night at the Burj Al-Arab, visitors have plenty of other options for viewing and touring the sumptuous landmark, which can be spotted from numerous spots around Dubai. Snap a shot of the soaring Jumeirah Beach hotel jutting out to sea on a city sightseeing tour or on a boat cruise.
To get inside, choose from the hotel's many bars and restaurants available for reservation. The Sahn Eddar Lobby Lounge offers a decadent seven-course afternoon tea service, set to the sounds of live classical music with views of the hotel's amazing atrium, while the 27th-floor Skyview Bar and its floor-to-ceiling glass windows mix cocktails with stellar views over the Dubai skyline and Persian Gulf. Hungry visitors can book a traditional Arabic lunch inside the world's tallest atrium at Al Iwan, or go for a more international menu with views over the city at the 27th-floor Al Muntaha. For a romantic dining experience, book a three-course seafood dinner at Al Mahara, a restaurant with its own floor-to-ceiling aquarium. Tours of Dubai city often include a stop for photos at the Burj Al-Arab, or you can book a tour that includes afternoon tea or lunch at one of the restaurants. For a different take on the views of the UAE city, book a helicopter tour.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to the Burj Al-Arab
One of the most popular Dubai attractions, the Burj Al-Arab hotel stands on its own island promontory, linked to the mainland by a private bridge—you can't miss it. It can be reached by taxi or Red Line metro via Jumeirah Road.
- The hotel is most often admired from the outside; reservations are required to enter, and overnight bookings come with a hefty cost.
- The Burj Al-Arab's dress code is smart casual; no flip flops, shorts, or beachwear allowed.
- Most guided tours allow only an outside photo stop.
One of the most popular Dubai attractions, the Burj Al-Arab hotel stands on its own island promontory, linked to the mainland by a private bridge—you can't miss it. It can be reached by taxi or Red Line metro via Jumeirah Road.
When to Get There
Entering the Burj Al-Arab requires reservations, and grabbing cocktails at the Skyview Bar proves the most budget-friendly way to get inside (must be booked in advance).
Dubai's Sky-High Attractions
Although the Burj Al-Arab is known for its height, it technically only has 28 inhabited stories. If it's views you're after, only a visit to the world's tallest building, the nearby Burj Khalifa, will suffice.
Address: Jumeirah Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 23
Emirates Palace
Opened in 2005, the 5-star Emirates Palace hotel is one of Abu Dhabi’s top attractions for its sheer scale and grandeur. The multi-domed luxury hotel, part of Kempinski Hotels, sits on the beachfront in palm-sprinkled gardens and makes a lavish retreat for guests and a must-see for Abu Dhabi visitors.
The Basics
Overlooking its 0.8-mile (1.3-kilometer) private beach, Emirates Palace is a modern Arabian showstopper, with soaring arches, domes, and windows fronted by fountains and a gigantic staircase. The hotel measures just over a half-mile (1 kilometer) from wing to wing, and features vast halls; gold, crystal, and marble décor; Swarovski chandeliers; and 394 rooms and 92 suites.
Visitors not ready to splurge on a stay can experience the hotel in other ways: eating at an on-site hotel restaurant or booking a spa treatment. Many Abu Dhabi city tours include an exterior photo op or time to explore the hotel's public areas, while others include lunch at one of the restaurants.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Emirates Palace is a must for luxury travelers, sightseers, and culture vultures.
- Experience the hotel on a photo op or brief visit on a wider city tour.
- Most communal areas are open to visitors, so you can view the interior independently.
- Dress code is smart-casual: Expect to be refused entry if wearing shorts, flip-flops, or open sandals.
- The hotel and grounds are wheelchair accessible.
How to Get There
There are several ways to reach Emirates Palace. Visitors can view the hotel on a guided Abu Dhabi tour, or catch a cab or self-drive to the entrance on the city’s West Corniche Road. Alternatively, several public buses run by the hotel—look for those heading to Al Marina and ask to hop off just before for a short walk to the gate.
When to Get There
Nonresidents can view the hotel’s communal areas free, any time. That said, it’s best to avoid weekends—Fridays and Saturdays—or during any big event, as the hotel may refuse entry if it’s busy. To ensure admission, you may want to reserve a table at a restaurant or the café.
Top Tips for Visiting Emirates Palace
To experience the opulence of Emirates Palace’s without staying there, pop in to enjoy its signature Palace Cappuccino, sprinkled with 24-carat gold flakes. Otherwise, up the luxury with an afternoon tea of scones, sandwiches, and dessert cakes with premium teas or coffees. Both are served at Le Café, and you’re advised to book ahead due to high demand.
Address: Al Ras Al Akhdar, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Varies
From $ 39