Things to Do in Dubai | Guide to Top Tourist Spots, Restaurants & Shopping

Renowned for its expertly-designed man-made islands, world-class restaurants, high-end shopping opportunities and overall glamorous appeal, Dubai is a city with never-ending attractions. When it comes to finding things to do in Dubai, this glitzy city makes sightseeing easy. In fact, few places on the planet can treat visitors to a camel ride along the beach with world record-breaking architecture in the background!

Fabulous Things to Do in Dubai

Looking for something fun and exciting to do during your visit to Dubai? This city is jam-packed with amazing attractions that will appeal to all of your senses. Here is a look at some of the top things to do in Dubai.

The Dubai Fountain

Located at the ground level of the Burji Khalifa building, The Dubai Fountain presents a stunning show that is free to the public. The fountains shoot water into the air to the beat of some of the most iconic music of the world while a colorful light show complements the entire act. The Dubai Fountain is the most elaborate choreographed water feature in the world and is stunning to watch. Shows occur daily from 1pm to 1:30pm and from 1:30pm to 2pm. For an even more vivid show, stop by The Dubai Fountain after the sun goes down, where the light and water show is presented every 30 minutes until 11pm at night. Be sure to bring your video recorder to capture all of the action.

Check In to Palace Downtown, Step Out to The Dubai Fountain

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

For around 161 AED per person, guests can discover some of the most fascinating sea creatures of the world at Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. This exotic underwater wonderland is located at the base of The Dubai Mall and features over 140 species of sea and freshwater creatures. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is the perfect destination for those who want to learn more about aquatic life found around the world.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is a two-story facility that features 10 million liter main aquarium and an underwater zoo. While at the aquarium, guests can walk through the Aquarium Tunnel and watch sharks and other fish swim above and around them. For those who are really looking for a thrilling adventure, the aquarium staff also offer a glass-bottom boat ride along the top of the massive aquarium tank as well as a guided shark dive where guests can actually dive into the tank and mingle with the sharks.

Located on the second floor of the facility is where guests will find the Underwater Zoo. This zoo features an assortment of different sea life from around the world in three different zones: the rainforest, living ocean, and rocky shore. At the Underwater Zoo, visitors will find crocodiles, water rats, crabs, and more. At Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo visitors can reserve rooms for birthday parties and other events. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is open daily from 10am to midnight.

Check In to Address Downtown, Step Out to Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

The Palm Jumeirah

Regarded as one of the most interesting and unusual man-made landmarks in the entire world, The Palm Jumeirah is an artificial island that is shaped like a palm tree. It is brilliantly designed and is home to resorts, world-renowned restaurants, water activities, and beautiful views of the city skyline. The Palm Jumeirah is open to the public and there is no charge to wander in and check it out. Guests can enter onto the island by way of the main road and explore its many “fronds,” or side streets. Venture out to The Pointe at the tip of the palm where visitors will find a promenade loaded with boutiques and fine dining experiences.

Check In to Atlantis The Palm Dubai, Step Out to The Palm Jumeirah

Aquaventure Waterpark

Located on the grounds of Atlantis, the Palm Dubai is where guests will find the thrilling water adventure park known as Aquaventure Waterpark. This water park is free to guests of the resort and also has a limited number of day-passes available for visitors who are just in the area for the day. Tickets should be purchased from the Aquaventure Waterpark website and visitors can choose from passes such as the two-day mega pass, single day pass, and more. Passes start out at 100 AED per person.

At Aquaventure Waterpark visitors are invited to hop in the water and swim among tropical fish and dolphins, dive down inside of the aquarium, and learn about the sea life that is found around the Persian Gulf. The water park also has an assortment of thrilling water slides, swimming pools, and kid-friendly water activities. For those who want a serious adrenaline rush, try the park’s zipline adventure. Aquaventure Waterpark is open from 10am to 6pm daily.

Check In to Atlantis The Palm Dubai, Step Out to Aquaventure Waterpark

Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort

A beautiful historical landmark that was originally constructed in 1787 as a military fort to defend Dubai Creek, Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort is a stunning castle-like building that was constructed of wood, coral, and limestone. The building is just as fascinating as the collection of artifacts that guests will find inside.

Once inside Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort, guests will be treated to life-size displays that showcase the lifestyle of the Arab people of the region. Guests will learn about life and the economy both before and after the oil boom and will get to see artifacts that date back centuries. Within Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort, there are displays that give visitors a glimpse at the traditional homes, mosques, and schools used by the residents of Dubai. Not only are there a lot of exciting attractions inside of the museum, but guests will have even more fun exploring the courtyard where there are an assortment of traditional Arab fishing boats and an Emirati wind tower. Wander into the wind tower and discover a fine display of traditional musical instruments and weapons. Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort is open daily from 2pm to 8:30pm and admission is 3 AED for adults and 1 AED for kids.

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Restaurants in Dubai

Dubai is home to an astounding 6000 restaurants where guests can dine on some of the most coveted delicacies of the world as well as street food that’s fit for a king. Visitors do not need to travel far to find food that will tantalize the tastebuds and soothe the soul. Whether you are in the mood for homestyle Italian pasta, traditional Arabic food, or something a little more exotic, you will find it all in Dubai. Here is a look at some of the most popular restaurants in the city:

• Al Balad Restaurant – A casual dining restaurant located in downtown that doles out beautiful and fragrant Lebanese dishes. This restaurant is open daily from 10:30am to midnight.
• Barry’s Bench Menu – A casual Mexican food haunt that is located on the beach, this fabulous restaurant serves up hearty plates of nachos, tacos, tostadas, and other quick-serve delights. This restaurant has plenty of outdoor seating and is open from 9am to midnight daily.
• Billionaire Mansion Dubai – For those who want to splurge on surf and turf menu options prepared by Michelin-star chefs, Billionaire Mansion Dubai is a suit and tie restaurant where all guests are treated like royalty. Indulge on prime sea bass, wasabi prawns with fruit salsa, or even tuna with a side of truffle sauce. This restaurant is open from 8pm to 4am daily, except for Monday.
• Social by Heinz Beck – A renowned 5-star restaurant where guests are invited to indulge on gourmet Italian cuisine served-up artistically on a plate. This restaurant is open from 6:30pm to 11pm Monday-Saturday.
• AT.MOSPHERE Restaurant – Located at the top of Burj Khalifa, AT.MOSPHERE Restaurant is the world’s tallest restaurant and serves up a worldly menu of breakfast, lunch, and dinner delights that are made from fresh and local ingredients. This restaurant is open from 7am to 2am daily.

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Shopping in Dubai

As being one of the most luxurious vacation destinations in the world, Dubai offers prime shopping opportunities that visitors will not find anywhere else. From traditional Arabic goods to designer labels like Jimmy Choo, Louis Vuitton, and Cartier, travelers will find everything they desire and then some. Serious shopaholics should keep these fine shopping venues on their radar when traveling to Dubai.

The Dubai Mall

When it comes to store choices, a glamorous atmosphere, and phenomenal activities to do with the family, The Dubai Mall delivers. This expansive downtown shopping complex features over 1,300 stores and boutiques as well as over 200 restaurants and entertainment venues. This mall is home to Fashion Avenue, which is completely dedicated to designer label brands from around the world. Whatever you are in the mood to shop for, you will find it at The Dubai Mall.

At The Dubai Mall, guests will also find Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, located on the first floor. Spend the day shopping and dining, and then head over to Reel Cinema Megaplex to watch a blockbuster hit. The Dubai Mall is also home to KidZania, a fun activity and education center, as well as Dubai Ice Rink, where guests can spend some time ice skating on an Olympic-size rink. The Dubai Mall is open from 10am to 12am daily.

Check In to Sofitel Dubai Downtown, Step Out to The Dubai Mall

Tehran Persian Rugs & Antiques

Ever dreamed of owning a real Persian rug? Tehran Persian Rugs & Antiques is a one-stop shopping experience for those who are looking for the perfect handmade Persian rug for their home or office. It is located on the 2nd floor of The Dubai Mall and features hundreds of expertly crafted rugs in an assortment of exotic colors and patterns. This store also features an assortment of Arabic antiques for those who are looking for home decor that is unusual and full of Middle Eastern history. Historians and home decor enthusiasts can go wild while finding their new favorite “thing.” This brilliant store is open from 8am to 10pm daily.

Check In to Vida Downtown, Step Out to Tehran Persian Rugs & Antiques

Jumeirah Emirates Towers Shopping Bouvelard

A futuristic shopping and relaxation center for those who are looking for an experience that is unique and full of luxury, Jumeirah Emirates Towers Shopping Bouvelard has it all. This shopping strip features designer stores like Cartier, Montblanc, Ferrini, and Pro Technology, as well as fine dining restaurants, and guest services. It is a health and wellness hub of the area where visitors can indulge in “me time” at Talise Spa, which is home to a healing bath, fitness classes, and a complete menu of beauty services. Jumeirah Emirates Towers Shopping Bouvelard is a place that puts comfort and relaxation at visitor’s fingertips.

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Annual Festivals in Dubai

Want to get a taste of the Emirati culture while visiting Dubai? Here are some annual festivals that encapsulate the art, cuisine, music, and heritage of the Emirati people. The dates of these festivals change each year so be sure to do your research so you do no miss out on participating while you are in town.

• Dubai Shopping Festival – An annual event that happens in January and February where retailers offer customers huge discounts and perks to shop until they drop.
• Dubai International Jazz Festival – This event is in full-swing during February and March and brings the jazz legends of the world to one grand stage for tourists as well as locals to enjoy.
• Art Dubai – Held in March and April each year, Art Dubai is a place for creative minds and those who love art collide for an event that is colorful and enriching. Artists can showcase their skills while visitors get to check out their work and make some purchases.
• Dubai World Cup – For those who love horses, stop by the Dubai World Cup during March and April to watch races and find out who will win the big prize. This event is held at Nad Al Sheba Racecourse.
• Festival of Taste – A delicious annual festival for self-proclaimed foodies, visitors will get to sample an amazing lineup of food prepared by the most renowned chefs of the world. This event is held in April and May.
• National Day – A lively festival that is held on December 2nd and celebrates United Arab Emirates nationalism. Guests can take part in games, live performances, and fireworks displays. This is the most popular event in the country.

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