Welcome to Dubai, a city that’s like no other! Dubai is the perfect destination if you’re looking for an adventure that will take your breath away. This buzzing metropolis is home to some of the world’s most iconic landmarks, exhilarating experiences, and luxurious indulgences. From skydiving over Palm Jumeirah to skiing on real snow in the desert, there’s no shortage of things to do in Dubai. 

To ensure you don’t miss out on any of the city’s must-do experiences, we’ve compiled the ultimate bucket list of the top ten things you must do in Dubai. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveller, this list will help you make the most of your trip to Dubai. 

So pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready to experience the thrill of a lifetime in Dubai!

From Sand Dunes to Skyscrapers: 10 Unforgettable Things To Do In Dubai!

1. Soar to New Heights: Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, standing at an impressive 828 meters tall. Visiting the observation deck on the 124th floor of the tower is a must-do activity for any first-time visitor to Dubai.

As you step into the high-speed elevator, you’ll feel your ears pop as you ascend to the top of the building in just seconds. Once you arrive at the observation deck, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the city skyline, the Arabian Gulf, and the surrounding desert.

If you want an even more exclusive experience, consider visiting the At Top Sky Lounge on the 148th floor. Here, you’ll enjoy unparalleled city views while sipping on drinks and enjoying canapes.

For those looking for something truly unique, why not book a private tour of the Burj Khalifa’s exclusive residences? These luxurious apartments are some of the most sought-after real estates in the world and offer unparalleled city views.

No matter how you experience the Burj Khalifa, one thing is for sure: it’s an unforgettable experience you won’t want to miss. Book your tickets in advance to avoid disappointment, and don’t forget your camera!

2. Thrill Seekers Unite: Skydiving over Palm Jumeirah

There’s nothing quite like skydiving over the iconic Palm Jumeirah for the ultimate adrenaline rush in Dubai. As you ascend to 13,000 feet in a small plane, you can take breathtaking views of the man-made island and the surrounding Arabian Gulf.

Once you’re ready to jump, you’ll be securely strapped to an experienced skydiving instructor who will guide you through the entire experience. As you jump out of the plane, you’ll feel an initial rush of wind before settling into a peaceful freefall. After about a minute of freefall, your instructor will deploy the parachute, and you’ll gently glide back down to earth.

One of the best things about skydiving over Palm Jumeirah is the view. As you descend, you can take in panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline, including the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Marina, and the towering skyscrapers of downtown.

3. Unleash Your Inner Speed Demon: Dubai Autodrome

For those with a need for speed, the Dubai Autodrome is the perfect destination. This state-of-the-art race track is home to various high-speed experiences, from go-karting to supercar driving experiences.

One of the most popular experiences at the Dubai Autodrome is the Formula DXB experience, which puts you behind the wheel of a Formula 1-style race car. You’ll receive training from experienced instructors before hitting the track for a thrilling drive that will leave you feeling like a true racing champion.

4. Relax in Style: Dubai’s Luxurious Beach Clubs

For a good reason, Dubai is known for its plentiful beach clubs. These exclusive destinations offer the perfect combination of luxury, relaxation, and stunning views of the Arabian Gulf.

One of Dubai’s most popular beach clubs is the Nikki Beach Club, which boasts a pristine beachfront location and a chic Mediterranean-inspired ambience. For those who want to take their relaxation to the next level, Burj Al Arab’s private beach club, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, is the ultimate indulgence. 

5. Desert Adventures: Camel Riding and Dune Bashing

Dubai is known for its stunning desert landscapes, and there’s no better way to experience them than by embarking on a thrilling desert adventure. From camel riding to dune bashing, there are various ways to explore the sandy dunes surrounding the city.

One of the most popular desert adventures in Dubai is camel riding, which offers a unique perspective on the desert landscape. You’ll climb aboard a gentle camel and be led through the dunes by an experienced guide, taking in the stunning views and learning about the region’s rich history and culture.

Dune bashing is the ultimate adrenaline rush for those seeking a more adventurous experience. You’ll hop in a 4×4 and hit the dunes at high speeds, careening up and down the steep hills and valleys. 

6. Hit the Slopes: Ski Dubai

Believe it or not, you can hit the slopes and go skiing in the middle of the desert in Dubai. Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort located in the Mall of the Emirates, featuring five runs of varying difficulty, a freestyle snow park, and even a penguin encounter.

Whether you’re a seasoned skier or a first-timer, Ski Dubai has something for everyone. You can take ski lessons with experienced instructors, rent equipment, and hit the slopes to your heart’s content. And if skiing isn’t your thing, you can still enjoy the winter wonderland atmosphere by building snowmen, riding on a sleigh, or even trying your hand at snowboarding.

7. Take to the Water: Jet Skiing and Flyboarding

Dubai is known for its stunning coastline and crystal-clear waters, making it the perfect place to try some exciting water sports. Jet skiing and flyboarding are two popular options for thrill-seekers looking to experience the thrill of speed and agility on the water.

Jet skiing involves riding a personal watercraft on the open water, similar to a motorbike. You’ll feel the rush of the wind in your hair and the water splashing on your face as you speed across the waves. With the Dubai skyline in the background, this is an unforgettable way to experience the city’s beauty from a unique perspective.

For a more extreme water adventure, flyboarding is a perfect choice. You’ll strap on a pair of boots attached to a board, propelling you into the air using a water jet. As you soar above the water, you’ll feel weightless and free, like flying through the air. 

8. Get Your Culture Fix: Dubai Museum and Old Dubai

While Dubai is known for its luxurious shopping malls and towering skyscrapers, it’s also rich in history and culture. One of the best places to explore the city’s heritage is the Dubai Museum and Old Dubai.

The Dubai Museum is in the heart of the city’s historic Al Fahidi Fort, built in the late 1700s. The museum is home to a vast collection of artefacts and exhibits that showcase Dubai’s traditional way of life before the discovery of oil. The museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage, from interactive displays to ancient artefacts.

After visiting the museum, stroll through the winding streets of Old Dubai, also known as the Al Bastakiya Quarter. Here, you’ll find traditional wind-tower houses, art galleries, and charming cafes tucked away in narrow alleyways. This area starkly contrasts the glitz and glamour of modern Dubai and offers a refreshing change of pace.

9. Retail Therapy: Dubai’s Malls

Dubai is known as a shopper’s paradise, with some of the world’s most luxurious shopping malls. Visiting Dubai’s malls is a must-do for any tourist or resident, whether you’re looking for high-end designer brands or local souvenirs.

The Dubai Mall is the world’s largest mall and home to over 1,300 stores, including luxury brands like Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton. The mall also features an indoor waterfall, an aquarium, and an ice rink, making it a popular destination for shopping and entertainment.

Another popular mall in Dubai is the Mall of the Emirates, which is home to over 700 stores and features Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort. The mall also boasts an impressive range of options, from fast food to fine dining restaurants.

10. Take a Ride: Dubai’s Water Taxis and Abra Boats

Dubai is known for its luxurious cars and impressive highways, but sometimes the best way to explore the city is by water. Dubai’s water taxis and abra boats offer a unique and scenic way to see the city from a different perspective.

The water taxis, also known as “abra taxis”, are traditional wooden boats used for transportation in Dubai for centuries. They are still used today to cross Dubai Creek, which divides the city into two main areas: Deira and Bur Dubai. Taking an abra taxi across the creek is a popular way to experience the city’s history and culture while enjoying the beautiful views of the skyline.