Did you know that Dubai welcomed over 16 million international visitors in 2019, making it one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world? This vibrant city, known for its iconic skyscrapers, luxurious shopping malls, and thrilling adventure activities, offers a diverse range of must-see attractions that cater to all interests. From the towering Burj Khalifa to the serene Dubai Miracle Garden, Dubai is a destination that promises an unforgettable experience. In this article, we will guide you through the top 10 best things to do in Dubai, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this dynamic city.
Top 10 Best Things to Do in Dubai
1. Burj Khalifa
Witness panoramic views of the Dubai skyline from the observation decks of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Travel to the 124th floor on the world’s fastest glass elevator and enjoy a meal at the highest restaurant, At.mosphere, located on the 122nd floor. Marvel at the indoor fountain in the Burj Khalifa, which is lit up with 6,000 twinkling lights in the evening. Unwind at the Burj Khalifa Lounge, the highest lounge in the world. For the best experience, visit the Burj Khalifa right before sunset to catch the spectacular views of the ocean, desert, and dazzling lights. Explore the historic significance of Dubai with a visit to the museums of Al Shindagha and Etihad.
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2. Burj Al Arab
Admire the iconic architecture of the Burj Al Arab, the world’s tallest all-suite hotel that resembles a billowing sail. Towering 321 meters, the Burj Al Arab boasts a helipad on the 28th floor and a restaurant that appears suspended in mid-air. Embellished with 24-carat gold, the hotel’s interiors exude Arabian luxury. Tourists can book the “Inside Burj Al Arab” show to experience the opulent hotel atrium and the glamorous Royal Suite, along with a curated experience and digital interactives that showcase the history of the original architectural designs.
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3. The Dubai Fountain
Marvel at the Dubai Fountain, the tallest choreographed fountain shows in the world. To enhance the experience, take an Abra boat ride during the fountain show to catch the marvel from the Marina waters. The Dubai Fountain Boardwalk offers an opportunity to witness this marvelous fountain from just nine meters away. Visitors can also reserve a table at any of the high-end restaurants by the lake and enjoy a lavish meal as they witness the captivating Dubai Fountain show.
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4. Dubai Miracle Garden
Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden, one of the most attractive natural flower gardens in the world. Spanning over 72,000 square meters, this floral paradise boasts more than 150 million flowers in full bloom, creating an extravaganza of color and scent. The Dubai Miracle Garden features hundreds of flower-formed displays that change each season, ensuring a unique experience with every visit. This enchanting natural wonder is open from mid-November to May, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in its beauty.
The Dubai Miracle Garden is a must-visit destination for travelers exploring the top dubai attractions and must-visit places in dubai. With its stunning floral displays and serene ambiance, it offers a tranquil respite from the bustling city. Whether you’re seeking a leisurely stroll through the gardens or a photographic adventure, the Dubai Miracle Garden is a captivating addition to any dubai sightseeing and dubai travel guide.
One of the highlights of the Dubai Miracle Garden is the ever-changing seasonal displays. The garden’s dedicated team of horticulturists and designers collaborate to create new and innovative floral arrangements each year, ensuring that every visit to the top attractions in dubai is a unique and unforgettable experience. From intricate heart-shaped structures to towering flower-covered castles, the Dubai Miracle Garden is a true feast for the senses.
As you wander through the Dubai Miracle Garden, you’ll be captivated by the vibrant colors, delicate fragrances, and the stunning backdrop of the Dubai skyline. This must-visit place in dubai is not only a visual delight but also a testament to the city’s commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The dubai miracle garden is a true testament to the city’s ability to blend modernity with natural beauty, making it a must-see destination for any dubai bucket list.
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5. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Discover the underwater universe of the Dubai Aquarium, one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world. Home to more than 33,000 aquatic animals and over 140 species, the dubai aquarium features a massive 10-million-liter tank where visitors can walk through underwater tunnels and catch a glimpse of endangered tiger sharks, giant crocodiles, and other marine life.
For an added thrill, visitors can participate in the Swim with the Sharks session or try their hand at cage snorkeling, a guided diving experience through the dubai underwater zoo’s aquatic exhibits. This captivating attraction offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the wonders of the ocean, making it a must-visit destination for dubai attractions and sightseeing enthusiasts.
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6. Ski Dubai
Experience a winter wonderland at Ski Dubai, the Middle East’s first indoor ski center located within the Dubai Mall. Offering five ski runs, including the longest one spanning over 1,300 feet with a 197-foot vertical drop, Ski Dubai provides a fantastic opportunity to enjoy snow-based activities such as skiing, snowboarding, and tobogganing. Visitors can also get up close with the resident snow penguins, adding to the enchanting winter atmosphere.
| Attraction | Highlights | Ideal For |
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ski dubai, dubai attractions, dubai sightseeing, dubai travel guide, top attractions in dubai, must-visit places in dubai, dubai bucket list |
Ski Dubai offers a unique winter experience in the heart of the desert, allowing visitors to enjoy snow-based activities year-round. Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-time snowboarder, this indoor ski resort is a must-visit attraction that showcases Dubai’s diverse offerings beyond its glittering skyline and luxurious experiences.
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7. Aquaventure Waterpark
Unleash your inner child at the Aquaventure Waterpark, situated adjacent to the Atlantis resort. Spread over 17 hectares, this renowned water park offers a plethora of thrilling rides and attractions, including the Leap of Faith, a 27.5-meter plunge through a clear tube surrounded by rays and sharks. Explore the Secret Chambers and the Atlantis Underwater Zoo, home to 65,000 marine animals, for a truly immersive aquatic experience.
The Aquaventure Waterpark is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking an exhilarating day of adventure in Dubai. With its world-class rides, exciting marine life encounters, and beautiful natural surroundings, the waterpark is a true aquaventure that should be on every dubai attractions and dubai bucket list. Visitors can enjoy a full day of family-friendly fun and dubai sightseeing at this top dubai attraction.
For those seeking an adrenaline-filled experience, the Leap of Faith is a thrilling 27.5-meter plunge through a clear tube surrounded by sharks and rays, offering a truly unique and must-visit places in dubai. The Secret Chambers and Atlantis Underwater Zoo provide a captivating glimpse into the dubai travel guide and the diverse marine life that call the region home, making the Aquaventure Waterpark a top attractions in dubai that should not be missed.
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8. Mall of the Emirates
Indulge in the ultimate shopping and entertainment experience at the iconic Mall of the Emirates. This expansive complex houses over 600 retail outlets, including high-end designer stores, alongside a diverse range of dining options and the world-class Ski Dubai indoor ski resort. Visitors can explore the mall’s various attractions, such as the Vox Cinemas, Magic Planet family entertainment center, and the luxurious Kempinski Hotel.
| Attraction | Description |
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| Mall of the Emirates | An expansive shopping and entertainment complex in Dubai, featuring over 600 retail outlets, high-end designer stores, dining options, and the world-class Ski Dubai indoor ski resort. |
| Ski Dubai | The Middle East’s first indoor ski center, located within the Mall of the Emirates, offering five ski runs, including the longest one spanning over 1,300 feet with a 197-foot vertical drop. |
| Vox Cinemas | A state-of-the-art cinema complex within the Mall of the Emirates, offering a premium movie-going experience. |
| Magic Planet | A family entertainment center inside the Mall of the Emirates, featuring a variety of rides, games, and activities for all ages. |
| Kempinski Hotel | A luxurious hotel located within the Mall of the Emirates, providing guests with high-end accommodations and amenities. |
Whether you’re seeking a shopping spree, a day on the slopes, or a family-friendly outing, the Mall of the Emirates offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every traveler’s interests in Dubai.
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9. Museum of The Future
Venture into the future at the Museum of the Future, a groundbreaking new attraction in Dubai. This seven-story, hollow elliptical structure, designed with stainless steel and Arabic calligraphy, takes visitors on an immersive journey to the year 2071. Featuring the latest virtual reality and augmented reality technologies, the museum of the future presents futuristic experiences, including a trip to space, a visit to the Amazon rainforests, and a spa of the senses. The Museum of the Future is an architectural marvel, with no sharp edges and a streamlined design that stands at a height of 77 meters.
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10. Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame, a remarkable architectural marvel, offers visitors a unique perspective on the city’s captivating contrast between old and new Dubai. Situated in the heart of Zabeel Park, this towering 150-meter-tall structure is the world’s largest picture frame, providing a panoramic vista of the city’s iconic landmarks and skyline.
Visitors can take an elevator to the top of the Dubai Frame and walk across the sky bridge, which connects the parallel vertical towers, for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the city. This vantage point allows you to observe the striking juxtaposition of Dubai’s historic neighborhoods and its modern, towering skyscrapers, giving you a true sense of the city’s remarkable transformation over the years.
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FAQ
1. What are 5 new attractions in Dubai?
Some of the notable new attractions in Dubai include the Museum of the Future, Ain Dubai (the world’s largest ferris wheel), Dubai Frame, Dubai Garden Glow, and Dubai Safari Park.
2. What is the most popular thing in Dubai?
The Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, is one of the most popular and iconic attractions in Dubai. Other top attractions include the Dubai Fountain, Dubai Miracle Garden, Dubai Aquarium, and Ski Dubai.
3. Can ladies wear shorts in Dubai?
While Dubai is generally more liberal compared to other parts of the UAE, it is still advised for female visitors to dress modestly, especially in public and religious places. Wearing shorts, short dresses, or revealing clothing is generally not recommended.
4. What are the don’ts in Dubai?
Some of the key don’ts in Dubai include: avoiding public displays of affection, refraining from consuming alcohol in public, respecting local customs and dress codes, avoiding photographing people without their permission, and being mindful of religious and cultural sensitivities.
5. What are the 10 rules in Dubai?
1) Respect local culture and customs, 2) Dress modestly in public, 3) Avoid public displays of affection, 4) Do not consume alcohol in public, 5) Respect religious sites and practices, 6) Do not photograph people without permission, 7) Avoid drugs and drug-related activities, 8) Respect traffic laws and regulations, 9) Dispose of trash properly, 10) Seek permission before filming or recording in public.
6. What not to wear in Dubai?
In Dubai, it is best to avoid wearing very short shorts, mini-skirts, sleeveless tops, and other revealing clothing, especially in public and religious places. Modest, conservative attire is recommended to respect the local cultural norms.
