Things to Do · Dubai
Updated June 2026The Best Things to Do in Dubai
From the top of the Burj Khalifa to a sunset desert safari and the old souks, here are the 12 experiences in Dubai worth your time — and how to book them for less.
The short answer
The best things to do in Dubai are heading up the Burj Khalifa, a desert safari, exploring Old Dubai and the souks, visiting Palm Jumeirah and taking a Dubai Marina cruise. Most big-ticket attractions sell out, so book skip-the-line tickets and tours in advance through GetYourGuide or Viator. For where to stay, when to visit and a full itinerary, see our Dubai travel guide.
Key takeaways
- 3–4 days is enough for Dubai’s highlights, plus a day for an Abu Dhabi trip.
- The desert safari is the one unmissable experience — book an afternoon one for sunset.
- Book big attractions ahead (Burj Khalifa, Museum of the Future) — they sell out and advance tickets skip the queue.
- Visit November–March for comfortable weather; summer is intensely hot.
- Plenty is free too — the Dubai Fountain show, the beaches and Old Dubai cost nothing.
The highlights
12 best things to do in Dubai
A mix of the iconic and the underrated — with a quick note on what’s worth pre-booking.
Burj Khalifa
Ride to the observation decks of the world’s tallest building for jaw-dropping views — best at sunset. Timed tickets sell out, so book ahead.
Book tickets on TiqetsDesert safari
Dune-bashing, a camel ride, sandboarding and a BBQ dinner under the stars — Dubai’s signature experience. Afternoon safaris catch the sunset.
Book on GetYourGuideOld Dubai & the souks
Cross Dubai Creek by abra, wander the gold and spice souks, and explore the Al Fahidi historic district. A guided food or walking tour brings it to life.
Book a tour on GetYourGuideDubai Aquarium & Dubai Mall
Walk the glass tunnel of one of the world’s largest aquariums inside Dubai Mall, then catch the free Dubai Fountain show outside after dark.
Book tickets on TiqetsPalm Jumeirah & The View
The famous man-made island, home to Atlantis and Aquaventure waterpark. Head up The View at The Palm for the best photo of its fronds.
Book on GetYourGuideDubai Marina cruise
Glide past the skyscrapers on a dhow dinner cruise or a sleek yacht — the Marina and JBR skyline looks unreal lit up at night.
Book on ViatorMuseum of the Future
Dubai’s striking torus-shaped museum is as much an experience as an attraction. Hugely popular — advance, timed tickets are essential.
Book tickets on TiqetsSki Dubai
Ski, toboggan or meet penguins on real snow inside Mall of the Emirates — a surreal escape from the desert heat.
Book on KlookDubai Frame
Walk the glass skywalk of the giant golden Frame for views of old Dubai on one side and the modern skyline on the other.
Book tickets on TiqetsAquaventure Waterpark
Record-breaking slides, a lazy river and marine encounters at Atlantis on the Palm — the region’s biggest waterpark and a family favourite.
Book on GetYourGuideJBR & Kite Beach
Free, lively beaches with soft sand, watersports and beachfront dining. Sunset at JBR or Kite Beach is one of Dubai’s best free things to do.
Find beach activitiesGlobal Village (seasonal)
An open-air world of pavilions, street food and shows from dozens of countries. Open roughly October–April — a fun, cheap evening out.
Book tickets on TiqetsBeyond the city
Best day trips from Dubai
Abu Dhabi
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Ferrari World — an easy, hugely popular full-day trip.
Book on GetYourGuideHatta
Mountains, a turquoise dam, kayaking and a heritage village — a refreshing change of scenery a couple of hours from the city.
Book on ViatorMusandam (Oman)
A dhow cruise through dramatic fjords with dolphins and snorkelling — the “Norway of Arabia,” just over the border.
Book on GetYourGuidePlan it
Know before you go
Planning the whole trip? Our Dubai travel guide covers where to stay, a day-by-day itinerary, budgets and visa tips.
FAQ
Things to do in Dubai: FAQs
What are the top things to do in Dubai?
The must-dos are the Burj Khalifa observation decks, a desert safari, exploring Old Dubai and the souks, visiting Palm Jumeirah, a Dubai Marina cruise and the Museum of the Future. Add Dubai Mall and the free Dubai Fountain show, and you’ve covered the highlights.
How many days do you need in Dubai?
Three to four days is enough to see Dubai’s main highlights at a comfortable pace, with one day for the new districts and beaches and another for Old Dubai. Add a fifth day if you want a day trip to Abu Dhabi or Hatta.
Is a Dubai desert safari worth it?
Yes — it’s the one experience almost everyone rates. A typical afternoon safari includes dune-bashing, a camel ride, sandboarding and a BBQ dinner with entertainment, timed so you catch the sunset over the dunes. Book ahead, as the best operators fill up.
What is the best time to visit Dubai?
November to March, when temperatures are pleasant for sightseeing and the beaches. Summer (June–September) is extremely hot, so outdoor activities are tough, though hotel prices drop. See our Dubai travel guide for a month-by-month breakdown.
Are there free things to do in Dubai?
Plenty. The Dubai Fountain show, the beaches at JBR and Kite Beach, wandering Old Dubai and the souks, and the abra ride across Dubai Creek all cost little or nothing. Window-shopping the malls and watching the skyline at night are free too.
Do I need to book Dubai attractions in advance?
For the popular ones, yes. The Burj Khalifa, Museum of the Future and desert safaris regularly sell out, and advance tickets let you skip the queue. Booking online is usually the same price or cheaper, with free cancellation if your plans change.
Keep planning
More for your Dubai trip
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Browse tours, tickets and desert safaris, read the reviews, and book the experiences worth doing — with free cancellation.
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