Top 24 Activities to Experience in Dubai

Discover the local coffee culture.

The Arab world boasts a rich coffee culture — from classic Turkish coffee to trendy options like cereal lattes — and Dubai is filled with numerous cafes for your daily caffeine needs. “There are so many cool, unique, artsy, and design-focused coffee spots,” says Sullivan. “Some feature stunning gardens and outdoor areas, while others have moody interiors with immersive themes.” Sullivan’s top picks include The Grey, Nightjar Coffee, and Tom&Serg.

Explore Dubai Creek.

Historically, Dubai Creek served as a vital trade route linking ports in the Arabian Gulf. Today, it offers a stunning perspective of the city, and is one of Hayter's top recommendations. “Visit Dubai Creek just before sunset and rent an abra (traditional wooden boat) for a private cruise,” advises Hayter. “When you're in the center of the creek, watching the sky turn pink as the call to prayer resonates, it's simply magical.”

Enjoy stargazing in the desert.

If you're captivated by the night sky, consider booking a night safari with ecotourism company Platinum Heritage, which includes expert guidance from an astronomer and telescope access. “The darkness of the sky allows for an astonishing view of countless stars,” says Hayter. “Having an astronomer explain what you're seeing makes it an unforgettable experience.”

Enjoy a round of golf.

While golf might not be the first activity that comes to mind when considering a trip to the Middle East, Dubai boasts several well-known courses, including The Emirates Golf Club – Majlis Course, renowned as one of the best in the area. Kelvin Cheung, chef partner at Jun’s and a resident of Dubai for two years, recommends checking if your credit cards offer complimentary rounds of golf as a benefit. The optimal time to play here is between November and March, when the weather is most pleasant.

Unwind at a beach in Dubai.

“Dubai features some amazing and less crowded public beaches where you can soak up the warm Arabian sea and sunshine for free,” notes Sullivan. Check out Kite Beach, which offers excellent showers and restrooms, along with several food stalls and coffee shops. For a fun addition, rent a Careem bike and ride along the expansive boardwalk at Kite Beach.

Savor the diverse dining options.

With its innovative restaurant designs and remarkable variety of culinary delights, Dubai is a paradise for food lovers. When planning your dining experiences, consider stylish venues like Amazonico, which takes diners on a sensory adventure through the Amazon; SEVA, a relaxed, plant-based café within a wellness center; and Jun’s, a fusion eatery with the Burj Khalifa as a stunning backdrop, where the chef personally greets each table. “The city offers an incredible array of flavors and textures, truly pushing boundaries,” says chef Cheung of Jun's. “Because Dubai's food scene delivers top-notch quality and service everywhere, my team and I are continually inspired to provide excellence with every experience. Few places in the world cater to such a diverse audience.”

Experience the amenities of a luxury hotel.

Dubai boasts some of the finest hotels in North Africa and the Middle East, making it essential to visit a world-class hotel and indulge in its wellness offerings. “There are so many stunning hotels in Dubai, and you can often buy day passes to access their amenities, including beaches, pools, and spas; some even offer tennis and padel courts,” says Sullivan. 'Apps like Privlee and Viya are fantastic for both tourists and locals; you pay a fee for unlimited access to partner hotels, beach clubs, and gyms, allowing you to explore somewhere new each day.”

Wander through the historic streets of Old Dubai.

“I find immense joy in wandering the streets, sikkas (alleys), and souks of Old Dubai, which are always bustling with energy,' shares Badran of Wander With Nada. 'The winding souks are filled with vendors eager to sell their goods; you’ll frequently hear 'Shakira' and 'professor' as they’ve seemingly agreed this is the best way to catch attention. Shoppers duck into inviting small shops where you’ll often find stools and a cup of chai, with every purchase involving a spirited haggling session. The sounds of carts blend with the enticing aromas of spices and musky perfumes.'

Discover Al Serkal Avenue.

Al Serkal Avenue, once an industrial warehouse district, has evolved into a creative oasis. “It’s a haven of art, community spaces, and all things quirky,' notes Badran. 'Visiting transports you to a realm filled with art galleries, charming cafes, boutique shops, and more.” The galleries here are open to the public at no charge, making it a delightful place to explore even if you’re not particularly into art.

Embark on a desert adventure.

Experience the desert in a 4x4, or opt for an adrenaline-pumping ride in a dune buggy or quad bike with Expert Rangers. For the ultimate Arabian desert experience, consider a package that features sandboarding, camel rides, an authentic Arab dinner, and entertainment.

Capture the best view of Dubai.

For adrenaline enthusiasts, why not try a dive with Skydive Dubai? Plummeting 13,000 feet above Palm Jumeirah offers an unforgettable experience to cherish.

Treat yourself to a traditional spa experience.

A hammam is a traditional cleansing ritual featuring hot steam, an invigorating scrub, rhassoul clay, and vitamin-E enriched products — you’ll emerge feeling softer than ever. We suggest booking a hammam session at the Guerlain Spa at One&Only The Palm.

Visit Hatta.

Hatta, located in the Hajar Mountains about 60 miles from Dubai, is an ideal spot to embrace the outdoors — hike along trails with stunning views, kayak in the reservoir, or mountain bike on designated paths. Don’t miss the heritage village featuring restored traditional homes and a defense tower.

Try scuba diving in a pool.

Deep Dive Dubai is not just any swimming pool — it holds the title of the deepest in the world at approximately 197 feet. Here, you can take scuba, freediving, and snorkeling courses, and if you're already certified, feel free to explore this underwater realm designed to resemble a sunken city.

Explore the Museum of the Future.

This building is a marvel of architecture in both form and design. The exterior is adorned with Arabic poetry, while its circular shape symbolizes humanity, and the void at the center represents the infinite future. Inside, you’ll discover immersive exhibits that encourage visitors to ponder the world, the future, and their own identities. It's advisable to buy tickets in advance, as the museum attracts many visitors and same-day tickets can be hard to come by.

Explore Expo City Dubai.

This location is a visionary miniature city that retains much of what was showcased during the World Expo (Expo City was part of the exhibitions held in 2022, which were delayed due to the pandemic). The sustainable city offers educational experiences and attractions focused on global issues, along with numerous playgrounds and parks.

Enjoy a day at Dubai’s latest resort.

Beyoncé delivered a stunning exclusive performance at the opening ceremony of Atlantis The Royal — a spectacular way to grab global attention. This ultra-luxurious resort is definitely worth a visit, even if you're not staying overnight. It features eight restaurants led by celebrity chefs (including Nobu by the Beach), a breathtaking infinity pool at great heights, a club offering panoramic skyline views, and countless other experiences.

Schedule a tour with Wander with Nada.

Nada from Wander With Nada is an engaging and vibrant guide, packed with knowledge about Dubai, making her the ideal person to discover the city with. You can select from various tour options, including one that showcases Dubai's landmarks and another that explores Old Dubai.

Enjoy a party at a beach club.

Dubai's beach clubs live up to the excitement, with Twiggy by La Cantine and Nammos topping our list. Rent a cabana or a beach chair and spend the day (or a few hours) basking in the sun, sipping drinks, and enjoying the vibrant music.

Browse in the Dubai Gold Souk.

In Dubai's Gold Souk, the streets seem lined with gold, featuring an intriguing marketplace with nearly 400 vendors. Here, you can find gold in all karats and styles, ranging from simple designs to intricate masterpieces. If you’re eyeing a special piece, don’t hesitate to haggle for a better deal, as it's part of the local culture.

Shop at a Dubai mall.

Dubai boasts an array of malls where you can discover nearly every brand imaginable. Visit the Dubai Mall, one of the largest in the world (also home to the Dubai Aquarium); explore the textile souk for traditional finds; or head to the Dubai Design District (D3), featuring pop-up fashion boutiques and ever-changing art installations.

Enjoy indoor skiing.

If you can imagine it, Dubai can make it happen, and Ski Dubai is a perfect example. Want to ski indoors and then step out into warm weather? This is the place for you. It keeps chilly conditions all year round and offers ski suits to ensure your comfort. Lessons are available, plus there’s a chair lift and even penguins inside.

Get a custom-made outfit.

One thing many foreigners might not realize about the Middle East is the incredible talent of local tailors, who create everything from casual wear to exquisite wedding gowns. A visit to Dubai offers a chance to bring your dream design to life. Head to the textile souk for fabric, get measured by a skilled tailor, and soon you’ll have a new outfit ready in just a few days. Tailoring a traditional dishdasha (for men) or abaya (for women) is a wonderful way to take a piece of Dubai home with you.

Take a ride on the Dubai Metro.

The Dubai Metro offers a comprehensive and well-maintained public transit system that links key destinations throughout Dubai at budget-friendly rates. Locals often rely on these trains for their daily travels, so taking a ride on the Metro is a great way to experience life like a resident.