Things to do in Dubai

Landmarks, culture, beaches, desert and family days out, with honest notes on timing and what to book ahead.

The classics deserve their reputation, but the best Dubai trips mix the skyline with the creek, a beach afternoon and a night in the desert. Filter by area or interest to plan your days.

Keyword

At the Top, Burj Khalifa

Dubai from the world’s tallest building

Premium
1 to 2 hours

Editor’s pick

Culture & heritage · Old Dubai: Bur Dubai & Deira

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Wind towers, courtyards and quiet lanes

Value
1.5 to 3 hours

Editor’s pick

Culture & heritage · Old Dubai: Bur Dubai & Deira

Abra Ride across Dubai Creek

The best few dirhams you will spend in Dubai

Value
About 5 to 10 minutes per crossing

Editor’s pick

Attractions · Palm Jumeirah

Aquaventure Waterpark

A full day of slides at the tip of the Palm

Premium
Full day

Editor’s pick

Desert safari

Desert Safari

Dunes, sunset and dinner under the stars

Mid-range
6 to 7 hours (evening tour)

Shopping & dining · Downtown Dubai

The Dubai Mall

Shopping, aquarium and fountain views under one roof

Value
Half a day or more

Attractions · Downtown Dubai

The Dubai Fountain

A free show at the foot of Burj Khalifa

Value
A few minutes per show

Attractions · Downtown Dubai

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Sharks and rays in the middle of The Dubai Mall

Mid-range
1 to 2 hours

Culture & heritage · Downtown Dubai

Dubai Opera

Shows and concerts in a dhow-shaped hall

Premium
An evening

Attractions · DIFC

Museum of the Future

Temporarily closed for a new exhibition. Reopening planned for Q1 2027; check the official site.

Dubai’s most photographed building

Premium
2 to 3 hours

Attractions · Old Dubai: Bur Dubai & Deira

Dubai Frame

Old Dubai on one side, the skyline on the other

Value
1 to 1.5 hours

Culture & heritage · Old Dubai: Bur Dubai & Deira

Al Shindagha Museum

The story of Dubai, told along the creek

Value
1.5 to 2 hours