Choose from 55 Fun Things to Do in Dubai
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Dubai Spice Souk
Dubai may have the world’s largest shopping mall, but for many visitors, the best shopping is found in the city’s traditional souks, or markets. Each of these historic markets specializes in one product or category of products, and one of Dubai’s most famous (and most pungent) souks is the Spice Souk.
Located in the eastern part of Dubai next to the Gold Souk, the Spice Souk includes a small area of narrow lanes lined by small shops selling almost any spice you can imagine. Huge bags and bins of colorful and fragrant spices -- everything from frankincense and saffron to dried chillies -- overflow into the streets. You’ll also find shops selling incense and sheesha, a type of tobacco smoked in a water pipe.
If you come to buy spices, be prepared to haggle; knowing your basic numbers in Arabic will help. Even if you’re not in the market for spices, a trip to the Spice Souk is worth an hour of your time just to soak up the atmosphere of one of the few remaining places where you can catch a glimpse of a more traditional Dubai.
Address: D 85, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 27
Hatta Heritage Village
This tiny traditional village in the Al Hajar Mountains is an impressive replica of Dubai’s old world wonders. Comprised of some 30 buildings, the grounds of Hatta Heritage Village have been attracting travelers in search of authentic UAE since 2001. Visitors can wander through original forts, a mosque built of sticks and mud, experience the vibrant cultural dance and get an up close look at the colorful traditional dress of locals. While a trip to Hatta Heritage Village is worth the trek, travelers agree that adding a swim at nearby Hatta pools in Oman will certainly round out the experience.
Practical Info
Hatta Heritage Village is located southwest of Hatta Hill Park. It is open Saturday through Thursday from 8 a.m. until 8:30 p.m. and on Fridays from 2:30 until 8:30 p.m.
Address: Hatta, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Saturday-Thursday 8 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Friday 2:30-8:30 p.m.
From $ 55
Jumeirah Beach
Chances are, if you’re visiting Dubai, you’ll want to spend some time at the beach. While many of the big resorts limit beach access to guests only, the city has a handful of public beaches, and Jumeirah Beach Park is by far the best of them.
Jumeirah Beach Park opened in 1989 as the first beach park in Dubai. Today, the 30-acre (12-hectare) beachfront green space features volleyball courts, showers, playgrounds, picnic tables, food kiosks, barbecue areas and lifeguards monitoring the sandy stretch of beach. The facilities are the best you’ll find on pretty much any public beach.
Practical Info
When not on the beach itself, visitors are required to dress appropriately, so be sure to bring something along to cover up after sunning and swimming.
Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 30
Marina Mall
Located in a fashionable part of the city on the eastern side of Dubai Marina, the Marina Mall offers more than 130 retail outlets across four levels. It’s a modern and convenient shopping and leisure destination for residents and visitors of the marina, although by Dubai standards it certainly isn’t the largest of malls.
In terms of retail outlets, Marina Mall features a mix of high street and designer brands, with a number of boutique fashion offerings thrown in too. It is also a place to visit for al fresco dining, with a promenade that extends onto the waterfront. There are a variety of other food and drink options throughout the complex, and it also features a cinema, a supermarket, and a children’s play area. The five-star Address Dubai Marina Hotel also links directly to the mall.
Practical Info
The nearest metro stations to Marina Mall are Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Lakes Towers, both on the red line and both within a 10-minute walk of the shopping center.
Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai 32923, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Open Sat-Wed: 10am-10pm and Thurs-Fri: 10am-Midnight
From $ 61
Dubai Mall
The world’s largest shopping mall by area, Dubai Mall boasts a huge range of attractions—making it a full-blown UAE entertainment destination. At the heart of Downtown Dubai, this 4-level colossus houses around 1,300 stores, plus restaurants, cinemas, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, and the Burj Khalifa.
The Basics
Dubai Mall’s outlets and family entertainments draw all types of visitor. The array of fashion houses, sportswear, children’s shops, and more make it an exciting shopping experience, while entertainment-seekers will love Dubai Ice Rink, Dubai Aquarium, and the Burj Khalifa ‘At The Top’ observatories. Other musts include Dubai Dino, the Jurassic-era dinosaur skeleton displayed at the Souk Dome. It's no surprise that the mall features on many Dubai tours—usually as an exterior photo op. Some tours include a guided walk and free time to shop, while others add on entry to the Burj Khalifa, Ski Dubai, or Dubai Aquarium.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dubai Mall is a must-visit for shopaholics and fun-loving families with kids.
- Expect to spend half a day or more here, perhaps on top of a visit to the Burj Khalifa or Dubai Aquarium.
- Wear comfy shoes: the mall is the size of 200 football pitches, so there’s lots of walking.
- Some shops are grouped into themed areas, such as boutiques at Fashion Avenue, footwear at Level Shoes, and jewelers at the Gold Souk.
- Free WiFi, mobile charging stations, and ATMs are available in the mall.
How to Get There
The easiest way to reach Dubai Mall is by cab or metro. If the latter, take the Red Line to the Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa stop, and catch a shuttle or ride the travelators on the Metro Link glass bridge—it’s a 1-mile (1.5-kilometer) trip. Frequent buses to the mall also run from Deira Gold Souk and Al Ghubaiba bus station.
When to Get There
Dubai Mall is great any time, but perhaps best in summer, when it offers cool respite from Dubai’s heat. The quietest times to explore are early after the 10am opening, and Sundays-Wednesdays before the weekends hit. Perhaps synchronize your visit with the Dubai Fountain shows outside: at 1pm and 1:30pm (1.30pm and 2pm Fridays) and half-hourly between 6pm and 11pm.
Other Attractions at Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is ringed by the attractions of Downtown Dubai, so it’s easy to combine a visit with other activities. Perhaps catch a Dubai Fountain show at the adjoining Burj Lake or relax at a waterfront restaurant outside the mall with Burj Khalifa views.
Address: Dubai Mall, Doha St, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 26
Dubai Museum
Set inside Al Fahidi Fort, the Dubai Museum recounts the Emirates’ history up until the oil boom, which forever altered its skyline. Dioramas and artifacts convey what daily life was like for Dubai’s earliest communities, while life-sized re-creations of the city’s early souks and wharfs bring the past to life.
The Basics
Housed in Dubai’s oldest structure—built in 1787—the Dubai Museum gives visitors insight into a side of the city hard to imagine amid all the ultramodern skyscrapers. The museum is a highlight on many city tours, along with other popular Dubai attractions such as the Jumeirah Mosque, Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Creek, and the Gold and Spice souks.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Dubai Museum is a must-see for history buffs.
- See the museum as part of a city sightseeing tour, with stops at several other popular attractions.
- The Dubai Museum is accessible to wheelchair users, but there are some steep walkways that may require assistance for manual wheelchairs.
How to Get There
To reach the Dubai Museum, either walk along Al Fahidi Street through the backstreets of Bastakia or make your way there from Bur Dubai Souq. The Dubai Museum is a short walk from both the Bhubaiba and Fahidi bus and metro stations. Limited free public parking is also available.
When to Get There
The museum is open daily (limited hours on Fridays) except for during Ramadan, when the museum remains closed on Fridays. Despite being in the oldest building in Dubai, the museum is completely air-conditioned, making it a perfect way to spend an hour or so during the hottest part of the afternoon.
History of Al Fahidi Fort
Located on the southern shores of Dubai Creek, the 200-year-old Al Fahidi Fort was built at what was then the edge of urban Dubai to lend protection to the city. Throughout its history, the building served as an arsenal for weapons and artillery, and as a prison before it became a museum in 1971.
Address: Al Fahidi Fort, Al Fahidi Street, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: 3 AED
From $ 23
Dubai Parks and Resorts
Dubai Parks and Resorts has grown to become the region’s first integrated resort destination, comprising three theme parks, a waterpark, an entertainment district, and a Polynesian-style family resort. From Lego-building experiences to Bollywood-themed stunt shows and fireworks every Friday night, there is truly something for everyone.
The Basics
For many Dubai Parks and Resorts visitors, the highlights are the twin parks LEGOLAND Dubai and LEGOLAND Water Park, each with its own set of rides, water features, and, of course, LEGO-building ops. Motiongate Dubai and Bollywood Parks Dubai are cinematic theme parks based on Hollywood and Bollywood classics, while Riverland Dubai serves as the gateway to the parks, with a collection of shops and restaurants divided into four themed zones.
One of Dubai’s most popular family attractions offers numerous ways to visit. If you’re planning to spend only a day at the parks, choose between a 1- or 2-park pass. With two days to dedicate to the area, you can opt for a 2-day all-parks pass that offers unlimited access to all three theme parks and the waterpark. Single-day park passes with hotel transfers are also an appealing option for a care-free experience.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dubai Parks and Resorts are a must for families visiting the region.
- Don’t forget to bring sun protection and drink plenty of water.
- Wear comfortable walking shoes and be prepared to spend a lot of time on your feet.
- Some of the parks’ rides, attractions, and amenities are accessible to wheelchair users.
How to Get There
Dubai Parks and Resorts are located about 20 minutes outside of Dubai. The park offers a free shuttle service from malls and hotels around the city, including Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates.
When to Get There
The best time to visit the parks is during the winter months, from November to April, when temperatures are cool enough to enjoy the many outdoor attractions. Save Motiongate for the hottest part of the day, as the park features more indoor sights. Expect temperatures to top 100°F (38°C) degrees from June to September.
Fireworks by the River
While Dubai Parks and Resorts doesn’t currently offer a nightly fireworks display, the resort does host a fireworks show, called Fireworks by the River, each Friday night at Riverland Dubai. The area isn’t ticketed, so you can come enjoy the show over coffee or dinner at one of the area’s 40 restaurants.
Address: Sheik Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Varies by season
Admission: Varies
From $ 43
Dubai Miracle Garden
A floral wonderland of 50 million flowers, the Dubai Miracle Garden is one of the UAE's most original attractions. Branded as the world's largest natural flower garden, it boasts hundreds of flower-formed displays spread over 18 acres (7.3 hectares), all of which create an extravaganza of color and scent on the outskirts of Dubai.
The Basics
Visitors can book a tour to the gardens with round-trip transportation from Dubai. Many tours also include visits to the nearby Butterfly Garden and Dubai Global Village.
The Miracle Garden offers a multitude of floral sculptures, all created or revamped annually and open for viewing between November and May each year. The flower-formed sculptures are created from different species such as petunias, viola, geraniums, and marigolds, and shaped into everything from cartoon characters to castles, pyramids, hearts, birds, and animals. Explore the walkways around the fairy tale-like displays, whose colors and scents are lent extra intensity by the surrounding desert-and-highway landscapes and backdrop of Dubai’s skyscrapers.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Miracle Garden is great for families with kids and anyone wanting a break from urban Dubai.
- Don’t forget sunscreen—there’s not much shade—and bring your camera to capture the Instagram-worthy exhibits.
- The garden closes for summer and is typically only open from mid-November to mid-May.
- Exhibits change regularly, so don’t count on seeing a specific one from season to season.
- Food kiosks, coffee shops, kids’ playgrounds, hammocks, and restrooms are all here for breaks from the sightseeing.
How to Get There
The Dubai Miracle Garden lies in Al Barsha South 3 in the Dubailand area southeast of central Dubai. Drive south via Highway E44 before turning onto the E311 toward the Arabian Ranches. It’s possible to arrive by cab or the buses that run here from the Mall of Emirates metro station, as well as on a guided tour.
When to Get There
The garden is open mid-November to mid-May, although dates can vary. Opening hours are generally 9am to 9pm Sunday to Wednesday and 9am to 11pm Friday and Saturday. Remember, the park is closed during the summer months.
What The Kids Will Want to See at Dubai Miracle Garden
There’s plenty for youngsters at the Miracle Garden, with sculptures replicating cartoon characters, animals, and other designs. Creations include a 59-foot (18-meter) Mickey Mouse; teddy bears, frogs, and parrots; and even a life-sized floral model of an Emirates Airbus 380 airplane.
Address: Al Barsha South 3, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Varies
From $ 75
Hatta Rock Pools
Located near the village of Hatta, just outside of Dubai in the Hajar Mountains, the Hatta Rock Pools have become one of the city’s most popular weekend getaways. This series of spring-fed pools meander through narrow canyon passages, amid the waterfall-dotted mountain scenery.
After experiencing the scorching desert temperatures of Dubai, the cool, dry climate of the mountains is nearly as refreshing as a dip in the turquoise waters. With its close proximity to the Hatta heritage village, you may want to consider combining the two attractions into a single day trip from Dubai. The rocky mountain passages and interesting landscapes of the area are also popular for off-roading in a 4x4.
Since the Hatta Rock Pools sit near the Oman-UAE border, remember to take your passport, as you’ll need it to pass through checkpoints.
After experiencing the scorching desert temperatures of Dubai, the cool, dry climate of the mountains is nearly as refreshing as a dip in the turquoise waters. With its close proximity to the Hatta heritage village, you may want to consider combining the two attractions into a single day trip from Dubai. The rocky mountain passages and interesting landscapes of the area are also popular for off-roading in a 4x4.
Since the Hatta Rock Pools sit near the Oman-UAE border, remember to take your passport, as you’ll need it to pass through checkpoints.
Address: Hatta Rock Pools, Hatta, United Arab Emirates
From $ 160
Dubai Marina
Carved along the Gulf shoreline south of Dubai’s The Palm island, Dubai Marina is a skyscraper-packed waterfront community that’s one of the city’s swishest residential and leisure hotspots. At its heart is a 2-mile (3-kilometer) waterway framed by residential blocks, hotels, shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
The Basics
Built during the 2000s, Dubai Marina is one of Dubai’s busiest leisure districts; visitors head here to relax, shop, sightsee, and eat. While strolling along the palm-dotted 4.3-mile (7-kilometer) Marina Walk, you’ll see skyscrapers, million-dollar yachts, and traditional dhows. Top attractions include the Dubai Marina Mall, the Dubai Marina Yacht Club, sightseeing cruises, and the nearby Walk at JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence), a beachfront shopping and dining promenade.
Many people visit the marina as part of a Dubai city tour, stopping to see the waterway with the benefit of a guide and without the hassle of having to arrange transport. Others join a dinner cruise or hop aboard a luxury yacht.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Dubai Marina is a must-visit for sightseers, shoppers, and sailing and architecture buffs.
- Bring sunglasses and suncrean if you plan to stroll along Dubai Marina Walk—there’s not much shade.
- Most Dubai city tours include a brief stop at the marina so you can take in the skyscrapers and yachts.
How to Get There
The easiest way to Dubai Marina is to step off the metro at the DAMAC or Jumeirah Lakes Tower stations. You can wander to the marina from either or catch a metro shuttle bus to the waterside. Otherwise, jump in a cab or a number 8 Dubai public bus.
When to Get There
Dubai Marina’s mix of outdoor and indoor attractions make it perfect year-round. It’s popular in the evenings, when many people stroll the Marina Walk to see the illuminated towers and boats and absorb the relaxed vibe over drinks and dinner. For daytime walks or shopping, avoid the crowds and hottest sun by arriving early.
Other Attractions at Dubai Marina
Visitors tend to make a beeline for the 140 stores and restaurants at Dubai Marina Mall or spend their time watching the yachts from a waterside café. Many also head to the north end to take in the super-high, twisted Cayan Tower, while adventure-lovers book rides on the zipline, swooshing along the cable high above the waterway.
Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 45
Dubai Metro
One of the fastest and most convenient ways to get around Dubai is on the Metro. Opened in 2010, the public transportation system features driverless, automated trains with five cars each, including one reserved for women and children.
Two lines are operational; the Red Line mostly parallels Sheikh Zayed Road and features 29 stations with a total one-way travel time of an hour and 12 minutes, while the Green Line services 20 stations between the Dubai Airport Free Zone and Dubai Healthcare City with a round-trip time of one hour and 23 minutes. Three more lines are in the works, and some tours include metro rides to reach attractions around the city.
Both the Dubai Metro and the local bus network use rechargeable Nol Cards when it comes to fare payment. Every metro station has a ticket vending machine with instructions in English and a variety of card categories, including 10-journey tickets and unlimited day passes.
Practical Info
The Dubai Metro runs from about 6am to midnight Saturday through Thursday, but doesn’t start operation until 1pm on Fridays.
Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Varies by destination
From $ 100
Hili Archeological Park
Since excavations began in the village of Al Hili, located 7 miles (12 kilometers) north of Al Ain, began during the 1960s, archaeological teams have uncovered ruins of settlements and tombs dating back to the Bronze Age. By 1995 the site was fully excavated, restored and opened as the Hili Archeological Park. Today, visitors from around the United Arab Emirates and the world come to see the remains of the country’s oldest settlement, where inhabitants once worked in agriculture and the copper trade.
Among the highlights of the UNESCO-listed park is a giant tomb where six hundred people were found buried. The two tomb entrances are decorated with reliefs depicting crude human and animal figures. Kids (and their parents) will appreciate the small children’s play area located within the archeological park grounds.
Practical Info
Hili Archeological Park is open seven days a week with limited (though still plenty long) hours on Fridays.
Address: Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Open daily
From $ 41
Mall of the Emirates
The Mall of the Emirates, Dubai’s second largest shopping complex after the Dubai Mall, houses 560 international retailers spread over 2,513,017 square feet (233,467 square meters) of retail space. Superlatives are plentiful — the mall houses the largest Carrefour supermarket in the city and five dozen stores made their Middle Eastern debut here.
While the shopping remains a huge draw to the Mall of the Emirates, even non-shoppers will find something to do. Ski Dubai (the first indoor ski slope in the region), multi-screen VOX Cinemas, Magic Planet arcade and family entertainment center, Peekaboo play area and the Dubai Community Theatre & Art Centre also make their home within the Mall of the Emirates.
Two five-star hotels, the Kempinski Mall of the Emirates and the Sheraton Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel both adjoin the shopping mall.
Practical Info
You won’t find many local brands within the Mall of the Emirates, and prices aren’t cheap, but it’s still a fun (and air conditioned) place to enjoy some window shopping.
Address: Al Barsha 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Daily 10am-1am
From $ 40
Palm Islands & the World
Fly over Dubai and you'll notice something unusual about the shoreline — the unique shapes of Palm Islands and the World, some of the world's largest artificial islands. From above, these islands resemble a trio of palm trees (Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali, and Palm Deira) and a roughly circular world map, golden on the otherwise azure surface of the Persian Gulf in the United Arab Emirates.
The Basics
Private Islands for Sale
The Basics
First constructed in 2001, the islands are always in various stages of development, especially the World, which is set to replicate the entire world and cover 5.5 miles (nine km) of reclaimed land. Although the palms are mainly home to a mix of leisure, residential, marina and commercial structures, visitors need not own property (or even stay in one of the hotels) on the completed Palm Jumeirah or any of the other islands to get a good look at this manmade wonder. Tours by speedboat, rigid-inflatable boat (RIB), and jetski take visitors from the Dubai Marina to the Palm Jumeirah archipelago, where it's possible to see the 5-star hotels tower above the water and spot the Burj Al-Arab from afar.
The best views of the Palm Islands and the World are from the air. Flightseeing tours aboard a helicopter or seaplane provide the perfect bird's-eye views—and photo ops—of these impressive archipelagos. Heading to the Observation Deck at the Burj Khalifa or to the top of one of the city's many other high-rise skyscrapers is another way to see the sprawling development from above.
Things to Know Before You Go
How to Get to the Palm Islands and The World
Things to Know Before You Go
- A wide variety of small-group and private tours viewing the islands are available by boat or helicopter, some in combination with Dubai city tours.
- The layout of the islands is best appreciated from above.
- Expect sky-high temperatures of up to 110°F (43°C) in summer.
The completed Palm Jumeirah stretches 3.2 miles (five km) by 3.2 miles. Although there is no public transit in place to reach the Palm Gateway Monorail Station on the coast, from here, travelers can take a 10-minute ride out to the tip of the palm to see the length of the artificial island from a good vantage point. Taxis can also drive out to palm leaves. Dubai's famed Atlantis hotel, Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark, and Lost Chambers Aquarium are set on Palm Jumeirah.
Private Islands for Sale
If you're in the market for a private island to call home, some of the islands in The World project are still up for grabs.
Address: Al Sufouh Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Free
From $ 17
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
The race car–themed Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi features 20 rides and attractions—everything from the toddler-friendly carousel of Ferrari prototype cars to cutting-edge racing simulators that will please older kids and teens. The largest indoor theme park in the world is also home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, the Formula Rossa, a hydraulic-powered thrill ride that sees visitors strapped into a Ferrari Formula One-like coaster car and launched at speeds of up to 150 miles (240 kilometers) per hour.
The Basics
The Ferrari World theme park has become one of the most popular attractions in the United Arab Emirates, and travelers have several options for experiencing the park. Those staying in Abu Dhabi can opt for a basic entrance ticket, but it’s also possible to visit on a day trip from Dubai, with the option to visit other notable Abu Dhabi attractions like the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and Falcon Hospital as well.
Things to Know Before You Go
- This theme park is a must-visit for families with kids and car lovers.
- Day trips from Dubai to the park typically last about nine to 12 hours.
- The amusement park has lockers and strollers for rent.
- Outside food and drink aren’t allowed into the park, but the food court specializes in Italian cuisine.
How to Get There
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is accessible by car from Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and Sharjah. While opting for a guided day trip is the most convenient option for travelers staying in Dubai, those based in Abu Dhabi can take advantage of a free shuttle service that stops at various locations throughout the city and Yas Island. Parking is available onsite.
When to Get There
While summers can be scorching in Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World is comfortably air-conditioned throughout the year. The park is open daily from 11am to 8pm.
Things to Do on Yas Island
Ferrari World is one of several attractions on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island. This emerging entertainment district 30 minutes outside the UAE capital is also home to the Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Marina, Yas Waterworld, Yas Mall (the second-largest shopping center in the country), Yas Beach, and the award-winning Kyle Phillips–designed Yas Links Abu Dhabi.
Address: Yas Island Drive, Abu Dhabi 128717, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Open daily, 11am - 8pm
Admission: Admission prices vary
From $ 40
Palm Jumeirah
Jutting into the Persian Gulf from southern Dubai, the Palm Jumeirah is an artificial island in the shape of a palm tree and ringed by a crescent-shaped breakwater. The world’s biggest artificial island, it draws visitors to its palatial hotels, theme parks, and shopping malls.
The Basics
The Palm Jumeirah offers some of Dubai’s most opulent 5-star hotels—including Atlantis, The Palm—all of them rising from its Crescent breakwater or trunk. The island’s 17 fronds are home to 1,730 private villas. Visitors come to enjoy the hotels’ beaches and dining options, as well as attractions, such as Atlantis’ Aquaventure Water Park and Lost Chambers Aquarium. Also popular are shopping malls, such as The Pointe and Golden Mile Galleria.
Nearly all Dubai tours include photo ops outside the Atlantis, arriving via road or the island’s monorail system. Some hop-on hop-off bus routes, meanwhile, let you alight at the Atlantis to explore at leisure, while boat and Jet Ski tours afford fabulous views of the Palm and Atlantis from the sea. However, the best option to admire the palm-shaped island design is to take a helicopter or seaplane trip that flies over the island.
Things to Know Before You Go
- The Palm Jumeirah is a must-see for first-time Dubai visitors, shoppers, families, and theme park lovers.
- If time is short, take a half-day tour that covers Dubai’s highlights and an Atlantis photo stop.
- If you can’t manage a flightseeing experience, the monorail is the next-best way to see the Palm’s fronds and palm shape.
- Bring your hat and sunscreen; there’s little shade anywhere on the island.
How to Get There
The Palm extends into the Gulf from Dubai’s Al Sufouh area, midway between the Burj Al Arab and Dubai Marina. To visit, catch the monorail from the Gateway station on the trunk to Atlantis, The Palm on the Crescent breakwater. Alternatively, take a taxi to the island.
When to Get There
The Palm Monorail runs every 15 minutes, every day, from about 9am until 10pm. Check timetables before traveling, however. If you have a ticket for the Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park, aim to arrive early during the peak season (November-April) and on Friday and Saturday, to avoid the biggest crowds.
Visiting the Atlantis, The Palm
Though Atlantis’ main lobby is usually open to nonresidents, access may be restricted from time to time. Your best bet is to reserve a table at one of Atlantis’ on-site restaurants to ensure entry.
Address: Dubai, United Arab Emirates
From $ 17
Global Village
In the past year some 5 million people visited Dubai’s Global Village—a bright lights entertainment hub with games, rides, food and fun. Travelers can find world-class shopping, a wide array of restaurants and live shows that range from cultural dance to daredevil stuntmen at this amusement park place in the heart of UAE.
Global Village highlights not only what makes Dubai’s culture and traditions so unique, but the UAE’s love of glitter and glam, too. Still, visitors agree that entertainment options here stretch far beyond the local flavor. Kid-friendly shows cater to a younger set, while international concerts and street performers offer something for the adults in the crowd, too. And for those who want to ride the rides, dozens of amusement park-style options are available for children, families and thrill-seekers.
Practical Info
Global Village is off of Exit 37, near Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road. It is accessible via public bus 103 from Union Station and 104 from Al Ghubaiba Station. The park is open Saturday through Wednesday from 4 p.m. until 12 a.m. and Thursdays and Fridays from 4 p.m. until 1 a.m.
Address: Sheik Mohammed Bin Zayed Rd, Exit No. 37, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: General Admission: AED 15
From $ 4
iFly Dubai
Located in the Mirdif neighborhood of Dubai, iFly Dubai is a skydive center that lets you replicate the experience of a parachute drop in a controlled indoor environment. iFlyers—as they’re called—fly on air gusts created in an acrylic wind tunnel. You’ll get the sensation of a real skydive—without having to jump from a plane.
The Basics
iFlyers take part in an introductory briefing with an instructor before donning a wind-suit and full-face helmet and entering a 32-foot (10-meter) wind tunnel in a small group. Then, with an instructor on-hand throughout, they rise up to 13 feet (4 meters) above-ground on air gusts to experience an exhilarating, gravity-defying “flight.” Depending on the instructor’s judgment, participants may also be invited to perform flips and turns.
Visitors can prebook for iFly sessions online to save time and hassle. Options include beginner’s packages that feature two 1-minute flights, upgraded packages that offer two 2-minute flights, or virtual reality experiences that let you fly over virtual Dubai locations. All include training and equipment. Repeat iFlyers, meanwhile, can experience two 1-minute flights specifically aimed at helping them develop their technique.
Things to Know Before You Go
- An iFly flight is a must for thrill-seekers and fun-lovers.
- Choose a basic session to see if a flight is right for you before committing to anything longer.
- Family and friends can watch and photograph your flight from outside the tunnel.
- Children aged three and above can fly, provided the supplied helmets fit.
- The whole experience takes 45 minutes, including pre-flight training.
How to Get There
iFly is situated in the City Center Mirdif Mall in eastern Dubai. Hop in a cab—most drivers will know where it is—or take the metro to the Rashidiya stop and catch a taxi from there—it’s a few minutes’ drive. Regular shuttle buses also run from the station to the mall.
When to Get There
Summer is ideal for enjoying iFly; it’s indoors, so you can escape Dubai’s worst heat and avoid the center’s busiest periods during the peak winter tourist season. iFly is open daily: 12pm-10pm Sunday-Wednesday, 12pm-11pm Thursday, and 10am-11pm Friday.
Tips for an iFly flight
Once you’ve booked for iFly, arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled flight to allow time for signing waivers. It’s best to wear a short or long top, plus long pants and trainers as you’ll need to put the supplied wind-suit over your clothes. Free lockers are available.
Address: 1st Floor, South Entrance, Playnation, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Varies
From $ 169
Jumeirah Mosque
Built from white sandstone and crowned with a central dome and two towering minarets, Jumeirah Mosque is Dubai's main place of worship and arguably one of the most beautiful mosques in the United Arab Emirates. Aside from being an extremely popular photography site in Dubai, the landmark is also notable in that it is the only mosque in the city open to non-Muslim visitors—an excellent way to gain a deeper understanding of Islam and its traditions.
The Basics
How to Get to the Jumeirah Mosque
When to Get There
The Basics
While it is most often visited as a photo stop on city tours, non-Muslim travelers are able to enter for an hour-long visit and Q&A session when accompanied by a guide from the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. This program, called 'Open Doors, Open Minds' is a way for non-Muslims to learn about Emirati culture. A visit to the mosque is often included in half-day or full-day sightseeing tours of Dubai, and the mosque is also one of many stops on hop-on, hop-off sightseeing buses, in addition to attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al-Arab, Dubai Creek, and the Dubai Mall.
Things to Know Before You Go
- Photography is allowed inside the mosque, so don't forget to bring your camera.
- Visitors are asked to wear modest dress (long pants or skirts and sleeves, with headscarves for women) and to remove their shoes before entering the mosque.
- The site's informational 'Open Doors, Open Minds' program includes coffee, dates, and pastries.
- Appropriate attire can be provided at the mosque if necessary.
Located on Jumeirah Road, the mosque is accessible by taxi, public transportation, or on an organized tour.
When to Get There
Should you miss out on the daily interior tour (held at 10am six days a week), the mosque is still worth visiting at dusk, when its intricate facade is lit up beautifully.
Jumeirah Mosque Architecture
The mosque is built in the medieval Fatimid tradition, developed in the Middle East during the Fatimid Caliphate. The mosque was built in 1976, and its adherence to the Fatimid style is considered a triumph of modern Islamic architecture.
Address: Jumeirah Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Admission: Varies
From $ 27
IMG Worlds of Adventure
In September 2016, IMG Worlds of Adventure opened in Dubai as the world’s largest indoor theme park. The 1.5 million square foot space is divided between three themed areas and IMG Boulevard, the park’s welcome zone.
In the Marvel zone, visitors encounter their favorite comic book superheroes, with thrilling attractions like Avengers Battle of Ultron, Hulk Epsilon Base 3D, Spider-Man Doc Ock’s Revenge and Thor Thunder Spinner. The Lost Valley zone brings dinosaurs to life, while the Cartoon Network zone features characters from Adventure Time, The Powerpuff Girls, Ben 10 and The Amazing World of Gumball. IMG Worlds of Adventure also houses a 12-screen cinema screening the latest blockbusters.
Practical Info
Kids under the age of three get free admission to IMG Worlds of Adventure.
Address: IMG Worlds of Adventure City of Arabia, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Hours: Open daily 12pm to 10pm
Admission: AED 300/AED 250 Adults/Children
From $ 69