The 23 best things to do in Dubai

Take a magical trip to Dubai and discover a stirring mix of profound traditions and futuristic vision wrapped into starkly evocative desert splendor. The glamorous hub of the United Arab Emirates embraces sunshineinnovation and cultural dynamismand is known as a shopping and dining haven with a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene.

There's no such thing as boredom amid this sci-fi-esque land of iconic skyscraperspalm-shaped islandscity-sized malls and palatial beach resorts. These are the best things to do during your trip to Dubai.

1. Stand amidst the clouds at Burj Khalifa

Dubai is famous for its dramatic skyscrapersand above them all looms the Burj Khalifashaped like a deep-space rocket andat 828m (2718ft)the world's tallest building. It's a stunning feat of architecture and engineeringand a trip to the observation deck (At the Top) on the 124th floor (452m/1483ft above ground level) is the most popular way to take in the amazing views it offers. You can also buy tickets for the At the Top SKY observation deck on the 148th floorwhich is the world's highest outdoor observation deck at 555m (1820ft).

Clad in 28,000 glass panelsthe Burj Khalifa also lays claim to several more superlativesincluding the highest occupied floor and an elevator with the longest travel distance. On hazy daysit’s better to visit at night.

Planning tip: It can be costly getting to the top of Burj Khalifa – with prices starting near Dhs179 dirham (US$49) per person for the 124th floor and more than Dhs399 (US$109) for the 148th floor – so instead of booking a ticket for an observation deckopt for high tea at Atmosphere Burj Khalifa and enjoy the views from the 122nd floor while enjoying delicious pastriestea and bubbly without the crowds. Prices start at about Dhs450 (US$122) per persongiving you more bang for your buck.

2. See a different side of Dubai in Al Fahidi Historic District

Wandering around this restored heritage area in Bur Dubai provides a tangible sense of historic Middle Eastern architecture and culture. Low-lying traditional courtyard buildings flank this quiet labyrinth of lanes in Al Fahidi Historic Districtmany of them featuring arabesque windowsdecorative gypsum screens and wind towers.

Some contain craft shopssmall heritage museumsart galleriesartsy guesthouses or cafes serving local fareincluding Middle Eastern breakfasts and camel milk smoothies. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding leads guided tours of the quarter.

Planning tip: Visit in the morning to avoid the heat and explore the heritage sites at a leisurely pace.

3. Wander through the blooms at Dubai Miracle Garden

Covering some 72,000 square meters (775,000 sq ft) and touted as the largest natural flower garden in the worldthere’s a sense of Alice in Wonderland–esque surrealism when entering Dubai Miracle Garden. Wander past quirky bloom-covered peacocksclocks and castlesor alternativelychill out in a cabana with billowing drapes and floor cushions.

Home to 150 million flowersand adjacent to the enormous nine-dome Dubai Butterfly Gardenit is incredibly popularattracting 55,000 visitors a week. There are food outlets on site as well as a souvenir shop and small trampoline park.

Planning tip: The garden is best visited in the cooler monthsfrom November to Aprilwhen flowers are in their prime.

4. Discover a world of entertainment in Dubai Mall

Shopping malls represent an integral part of the culture and life in Dubai. Not merely places for maxing out your credit cards on fashionelectronics or gourmet foodsmalls are also where locals go to socialize in cafes and restaurantsto catch a movie in a state-of-the-art multiplex or to get adrenaline kicks in an indoor theme park or game arcade. The best and biggest of the bunch is Dubai Mallwhich features not only 1300 stores but also the giant Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zooan indoor ice rink and a genuine dinosaur skeleton.

Planning tip: Serious shoppers can plan a trip around the Dubai Shopping Festivalwhich lures bargain-hunters from around the world. It takes place in January each yearand there are huge discounts in the souqs and malls. The city is abuzz with activities during the festivalranging from live concerts to fashion shows and nightly fireworks.

5. Escape the urban bustle in Mushrif National Park

One of the oldest parks in DubaiMushrif National Park covers more than 500 hectares (1235 acres) of natural ghaf forest. Mushrif is located around 15km (9.3 miles) east of the city centerand is a haven for birdsincluding owlsOrphean warblershoopoes and black redstarts. Dating from 1974the park has plenty of manmade attractions as wellincluding walking trails and bicycle tracksa large children's playgrounda swimming pool and barbecue pits.

Detour: If time is limitedvisit one of Dubai’s other parkslike Safa Park or Zabeel Parkwhich also offer green spaces and recreational facilities.

6. Spy wildlife at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

On the outskirts of Sharjahthe 225-sq-km (87-sq-miles) Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve accounts for 5% of the Emirate of Dubai's total land. The reserve was established in 1999 and has been involved in projects to reintroduce mountain gazellessand gazelles and Arabian oryx.

It's possible to stay inside the reserve at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spawhich was designed for super-luxe ecotourism. The reserve is divided into four zonesthe third of which is only open to resort guests and the fourth to a small number of desert tour operatorsincluding Arabian Adventuresoffering a less costly admission than overnighting at the resort.

Planning tip: Book desert safaris and eco-tours in advanceand opt for morning or sunset tours to avoid the midday heat.

7. Escape the summer heat in IMG Worlds of Adventure

In 2016Dubai added four theme parks to its stable of attractionsincluding IMG Worlds of Adventurethe world's largest indoor theme park at the time. Housed in an air-conditioned hangar the size of 28 football fieldsthe park is truly impressivewith more than 20 rides and attractions split across four themed zones – MarvelCartoon NetworkLost Valley Dinosaur Adventure and IMG Boulevard. You won't go hungry as there are 28 dining outlets to choose from.

Planning tip: Purchase tickets online ahead of time for better rates and to avoid long lines.

8. Etihad Museum details the birth of the UAE

Opened in 2017the striking Etihad Museum engagingly chronicles the birth of the United Arab Emirates in 1971spurred by the discovery of oil in the 1950s and the withdrawal of the British in 1968.

Documentary filmsphotographsartifactstimelines and interactive displays zero in on historic milestones in the years leading up to and immediately following this momentous occasionand they pay homage to the country's seven founding fathers. Free tours of the adjacent circular Union House are availablewhich is where the historic signing of the Constitution of the United Arab Emirates took place.

9. Indulge yourself at the Gold Souq

For a dose of Arabian Nights flairhead to Dubai's historic core and plunge headlong into its charmingly chaotic warren of markets. The famed headliner is the dazzling Gold Souq. Even if you don't have a thing for blinga walk through here will feel like you've entered a giant Aladdin's Cave. It's fun to just watch the actionespecially in the evening. If you're buyingsharpen your haggling skillswhether shopping for teensy earringsan engagement ring or a red-carpet-ready necklace.

Planning tip: Bargaining is expected. When you find a piece you’re interested instart by offering a price lower than what you are willing to pay. Sellers will then counter with something higher but also lower than the original price.

10. Escape to the desert dunes

The Arabian desertwith its weathered mountainsundulating sand dunes and wide-open spacesexudes a special mystique that can easily be savored on a day trip from urbanized Dubai. There are numerous tour operators to set you up with everything from camel treks to sandboarding or overnight desert safaris. The best ones offer an authentic look at local culture through encounters with Bedouins and traditional meals. Alternativelyconsider hiring a 4WD and staying at a desert resortso you can appreciate the magnificent scenery on your own schedule.

11. Get creatively inspired in Dubai Design District

This hub for creatives lures visitors with its edgy architecturecontemporary restaurantspublic artgalleries and calendar of cultural events. Visitors to Dubai Design District can tap into this laboratory of tastemakers by browsing showrooms and pop-upseavesdropping on bearded hipsters in sleek caféschecking out art exhibits in building lobbiesor attending free screenings and workshops.

Planning tip: Visit during Dubai Design Week in November for a full range of activitiesexhibitions and workshops.

12. Learn more about delicate creatures at the Dubai Butterfly Garden

If you want to deepen your knowledge of these pretty flying insectspop into the Dubai Butterfly Gardenlocated next to the Dubai Miracle Garden. Some 15,000 butterflies flutter around ten indoor domed gardensand you can see for yourself how they begin as caterpillars and evolve into their flying adaptations. Don’t miss the Butterfly and Insect Museumwhich features in-depth analysis and information about thousands of colorful butterfly species from around the world.

13. See a different perspective at the Museum of Illusions

Opened in 2018the Museum of Illusions in the Al Seef district is fast becoming a family favorite in Dubai. Kids will love the 150-plus illusionsincluding the rooms of mirrorsdistorted perspective and various other optical illusionswhile parents can take memorably wacky photos. Avoid visiting at weekendsif possibleas visitors are restricted by number and you may have to wait your turn.

Detour: After visiting the museumtake some time to explore the Al Seef districtwhich offers a blend of modern and traditional architecturealong with various dining options.

14. Visit Jumeirah Mosque at dusk

Snowy white and intricately detailedJumeirah is Dubai's most beautiful mosque and one of only a handful in the UAE open to non-Muslims. It's particularly beautiful at dusk and visitors are allowed in six days a week. One-hour guided tours are operated by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.

Planning tip: Any of modest dress is preferredand traditional clothing can be borrowed for free.

15. Watch the water dance at Dubai Fountain

The dancing Dubai Fountain is spectacularly set in the middle of a giant lake against the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa and free for all to enjoy. Water undulates as gracefully as a belly dancerarcs like a dolphin and surges as high as 140m (459ft)all synced to stirring classicalArabic and world music soundtracks played on speakers. There are plenty of great vantage pointsincluding a floating boardwalkwhich takes you just 9 meters (30ft) away from the fountain.

Other good viewing spots include some of the restaurants at Souk Al Baharthe bridge linking Souk Al Bahar with Dubai Mallthe Dubai Mall waterfront terraceor aboard a 25-minute Dubai Fountain Lake Ride on a traditional wooden abra boat.

Planning tip: The fountain is currently undergoing renovation work and will reopen in October 2025.

16. Tour the world at Global Village

The carnival-like Global Village is a bit like a "world fair" for shoppersand you'll find it on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). Each of the 30-something pavilions showcases a specific nation’s culture and products. Aside from shoppingthere's also lots of entertainment – from Chinese opera to Turkish whirling dervishes – as well as a funfair with dozens of ridesfrom tame to terrifying.

Planning tip: Global Village is open between October and Mayand shuts during the hot summer months.

17. Discover a world of bling at Burj Al Arab

This landmark luxe hotelwith its dramatic design that mimics the billowing sail of a shipfloats on its own artificial island and has become the iconic symbol of Dubai’s boom years. Found on the stunning man-made island of Palm Jumeirahwhich is shaped like a palm treethe Burj Al Arab's interior is all about impactdrama and unapologetic blingwith dancing fountainsgold fittingsshiny marble and whirlpool baths your butler can fill with champagneif you so wish. If a stay exceeds your budgetyou can still partake in the opulence by making reservations for cocktailsafternoon tea or dinner in the underwater restaurant.

18. Gaze into the future at Dubai Frame

Opened in January 2018this 150m (492ft) rectangular “picture frame” sits in Zabeel Parkright between historic and modern Dubaiand provides grand views of both parts of the city. Galleries on the ground floor of Dubai Frame tell the story of Dubai (the past) before visitors are whisked up to a viewing platform at roof level (the present). The final stop is another gallery depicting a vision of Dubai 50 years from now (the future).

19. Take a breath at Al Qudra Lake

One for the nature loversAl Qudra Lake is a series of man-made lakes set amidst the rolling dunes of the Saih Al Salam desert on Dubai’s southern outskirts. Part of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reservethe surrounding area is unspoiled. Swap skyscrapers for wide open dunes and oasis-like pools where you can spot plenty of free-roaming wildlifemore than 100 species of birds and several desert plants.

20. Rent a kayak at Kite Beach

This longpristine stretch of white sandoff Jumeirah Road and next to a mosqueis very clean and has lots of activitiesincluding kitesurfingbeach tennisbeach volleyball and kayaking. There are showersWi-Fitoilets and changing facilities on Kite Beachplus lots of food trucks and cafes. It offers great views of the Burj Al Araband gets very busy on Friday and Saturday when a seaside market with crafts and gifts sets up.

Detour: Jumeirah Beachabout 3 miles from Kite Beachstretches along the coastline with the same iconic views but in a more relaxed atmosphere that is best for tranquil lounging.

21. Explore scents from around the world at the Perfume Museum

The waterfront Perfume Museum is part of the Al Shindagha Museum restoration project and is the former home of a Dubai sheikha who loved all things perfume. The old building has been restored and its interactive exhibits are based around scentsmells and fragrance. Keep your entry ticket and you’ll get free access to the nearby Dubai Creek House.

22. Expand your palate at the Spice Souq

Steps from the Deira Old Souq abra station next to the Dubai Creekthe sound of Arabic chatter bounces around the lanes of this covered market. Dubai's famous Spice Souq is filled with intoxicating sights and smells. Its vendors work hard to unload cardamomsaffron and other aromatic herbs photogenically stored in burlap sacks alongside nutsincense burnershenna kitsshishas and dried limes. Away from the tourist-oriented main thoroughfaretiny shops also sell groceries and other household goods.

23. Take the kids on an adventure at Dubai Parks and Resorts

Dubai Parks and Resorts covers 2.3 million sq meters (25 million sq ft)making it one of the largest integrated theme park destinations in the Middle East. The complex welcomes you with a central Riverland Dubaifeaturing themed dining and retail options in a picturesque setting that harkens to a 1950s American boardwalkand allows you to experience the magic of Hollywood at Motiongate Dubai. The only Hollywood-themed park in the Middle Eastrides in this theme park are inspired by blockbuster movies like The Hunger Games and Shrek.

Families with younger children will especially love Legoland Dubaiwhile the Legoland Water Park provides adventure with water slides and fun-filled zones perfect for children ages 2 to 12.