Dubai, the dazzling gem of the UAE, combines luxury, adventure, and culture in one vibrant city. From futuristic skyscrapers to bustling souks, it offers unforgettable experiences for every traveler. This guide will help you discover the best things to do in Dubai Mall (one of the city’s most popular attractions), explore top spots across the city, and find the best places to visit in Dubai for free!
Table of Contents
- Burj Khalifa: The World’s Tallest Tower
- Dubai Mall: Shopping and Entertainment
- Dubai Fountain Show: Captivating Water Display
- Miracle Garden: Explore Stunning Floral Displays
- Old Dubai and Dubai Creek: A Journey Through History
- Museum of the Future: A Visionary Experience
- Dubai Desert Safari: Thrills in the Sand Dunes
- Gold Souk: Unique Shopping Experience
- Dubai Marina Cruise: Spectacular Waterfront Views
- Abu Dhabi Day Trip
- Jumeirah Mosque: Discover Islamic Culture
- Camel Racing: Tradition Meets Tech
- Dubai Bus Tour: Explore Top Attractions Easily
- AYA Universe: Immersive Digital Experience
- Dubai Frame: 150-Meter-Tall Structure
- The Palm Jumeirah: Man-Made Island
- Best Beaches to Visit
- What to Pack for a Full Day Exploring Dubai
1
Burj Khalifa
Standing at 828 meters, the Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building. Head to its observation decks on the 124th, 125th, or 148th floor for stunning views of Dubai’s skyline, the Gulf, and the desert.
Price: AED 169–AED 379 (67-150$ CAD). The price varies by time and floor. Click here to see the different options.
Opening Hours: Daily, 5:00am to 11 pm.
Pro Tip: Opt for an early morning or sunset slot for the best views and photography. Don’t miss the multimedia display on Dubai’s transformation!
How to Get There: Take the Dubai Metro to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station, then follow the signs inside the mall to the ticketing counter.
2
Dubai Mall
This is hands down the most impressive mall I’ve ever visited! It’s absolutely massive and always buzzing with energy. But Dubai Mall is so much more than a shopping spot—it’s home to attractions like the Dubai Aquarium, VR Park, and even a full-sized ice rink.
Price: Entry is free, but attractions like the aquarium and ice rink have separate ticket prices.
- Aquarium: A ticket costs AED 199 (78$ CAD) for adults and children over 2 years old.
- Ice Rink: Ticket prices vary depending on availability, typically ranging between AED 120–145 (47–57$ CAD). Click here to visit the ice rink’s official website.
Opening Hours: Mon–Thu: 10am to 11pm; Fri–Sun: 10am to 12pm.
Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Dubai Fountain show just outside the mall.
How to Get There: Take the Dubai Metro to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station
3
Dubai Fountain Show
Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. Watch as water jets soar as high as 150 meters, dancing to a mix of classical, Arabic, and contemporary music. Evening shows, illuminated by lights, were my personal favorite.
Price: Free. For a fee, you can even watch the show up close from the lake itself for a unique perspective!
Opening Hours: Daily shows run every 30 minutes from 6pm to 11pm.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure a good viewing spot or book a table at a nearby restaurant for a dinner-and-show combo.
What to Expect: Be prepared for crowds at all times of the night as everyone gathers to watch the show. However, this is still one of the best things to do in Dubai at night!
How to Get There: Take the Dubai Metro to Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station, then take a short walk through the mall to the fountain area.
Reserve Your Guided Tour Through GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here is an option we believe is among the best.
Dubai: Burj Khalifa Fountain Show and Burj Lake Ride – Click Here
4
Dubai Miracle Garden
Marvel at over 150 million flowers, including the iconic Emirates A380 display, and explore themed areas like the Smurfs’ Village and Aladdin’s universe. With vibrant colors, cozy benches, and restaurants, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a refreshing drink.
Price: AED 100 (40$ CAD) for adults; AED 85 (34$ CAD) for children. Book your tickets in advance to avoid full booking once getting there.
Opening Hours: Daily, 9am to 9pm; weekends until 11pm (seasonal, November to May).
Pro Tip: Visit in the morning to enjoy cooler temperatures and avoid crowds. If you have energy left, stop by the Butterfly Garden just a few meters from the Miracle Garden entrance!
How to Get There: Take a taxi or bus from the Mall of the Emirates Metro station. Take bus #105, which stops directly at the Miracle Garden.
5
Old Dubai & Dubai Creek
Explore the Al Fahidi Historical District, visit the Dubai Museum, and take an abra ride across the creek to experience the charm of old Dubai. Strolling through the district, with its stunning architecture and welcoming shopkeepers, was a highlight of my trip.
Price: Exploring the Historical District is free.
- Abra ride: AED 1 (0.40$ CAD)
- Dubai Museum: AED 3 (1.20$ CAD).
My Highlight: Don’t miss the Heritage Museum (BLDG #33) within the Historical District! The owner is hilarious, and you’ll learn so much fascinating history. Bonus: It’s completely free to visit.
Opening Hours: Varies by location; museums typically open 8:30am to 8:30pm.
How to Get There: Al Fahidi Metro station for the historical district; Al Ghubaiba station for the creek.
6
Museum of the Future
The Museum of the Future is a must-see with its stunning architecture and mind-blowing exhibits. Step inside and explore interactive displays on AI, robotics, and sustainable living that give you a sneak peek into the world of tomorrow!
Price: AED 149 (59$ CAD).
Opening Hours: Daily, 9am to 7pm.
Pro Tip: Tickets sell out quickly, so book online at least two weeks in advance. We learned the hard way—don’t risk showing up without a reservation!
How to Get There: Dubai Metro to Emirates Towers station; the museum is a short walk from there.
7
Dubai Desert Safari
Experience Dubai’s desert with a safari adventure, featuring dune bashing, camel rides, and sandboarding. End the day with a Bedouin-style dinner under the stars, complete with cultural performances.
Price: Between AED 150–AED 600 (59-235$ CAD) depending on the package.
Opening Hours: Afternoon to late evening (times vary by tour).
Pro Tip: Dress in light, breathable clothing and avoid heavy meals before dune bashing.
How to Get There: Most tours include hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Reserve Your Guided Tour Through GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here are a few options we believe are among the best.
Dubai: Desert Safari, Quad Bike, Camel Ride & Al Khayma Camp – Click Here
Dubai: Safari, Quad Bike, Camel Ride, and Buffet Dinner – Click Here
8
Gold Souk
Nestled in Old Dubai, the Gold Souk in Old Dubai is a dazzling maze of over 380 shops showcasing gold jewelry, gemstones, and the world’s largest gold ring. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or just admiring the incredible craftsmanship, it’s a must-visit.
From the Gold Souk, explore the Spice, Perfume, and Diamond Souks, and wander surrounding streets for hidden gems.
Price: Free to enter; prices vary by item.
Opening Hours: Daily 9am to 9pm.
Pro Tip: Bargain with confidence to score the best deal! Check prices at a few different stalls first to get a sense of the going rate before starting your negotiation.
How to Get There: Al Ras Metro Station, a short walk to the souk.
9
Dubai Marina Boat Cruise
Set sail through Dubai Marina on a luxury yacht, traditional dhow, or speedboat. Soak in amazing views of landmarks like the Ain Dubai Ferris wheel, Atlantis Hotel, and sparkling skyscrapers.
Price: AED 150–AED 500 (59-196$ CAD) (varies by boat type).
Opening Hours: Cruises typically operate between 6pm and 10pm.
Pro Tip: Opt for an evening cruise with dinner and entertainment for the best ambiance with city lights.
For a More Affordable Option: If you’re looking for a budget-friendly way to enjoy the water, the Dubai Ferry is a fantastic choice (I tried it, and it was amazing!). You can hop on from various locations and head to Dubai Marina.
I personally took the ferry from Al Ghubaiba to Dubai Marina at 1 PM, and it cost just 50 dirhams (20$ CAD) for a one-way ride—far cheaper than a yacht experience. It’s one of the best things to do in Dubai marina to enjoy the views without breaking the bank.
Click here to explore the different routes and here for the latest prices.
10
Abu Dhabi Day Trip
Just a short drive from Dubai, Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is packed with amazing attractions like the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the iconic Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the adrenaline-filled Ferrari World.
Most day tours include transport, making it super easy to explore the capital without any hassle.
Price: AED 250–AED 400 (98-157$ CAD) (varies by tour).
Pro Tip: Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites like the Grand Mosque.
How to Get There: Book a guided tour or hop on a bus from Dubai.
My Experience: Visiting Abu Dhabi was hands down the highlight of my trip to Dubai! Our guided tour was fantastic—everything was perfectly planned, and we got to see so much in one day. For a detailed guide about Abu Dhabi and this unforgettable day trip, check out Abu Dhabi Day Tour: Ultimate Guide for an Adventure From Dubai.
11
Jumeirah Mosque
One of the most stunning mosques in Dubai, the Jumeirah Mosque warmly welcomes non-Muslim visitors for guided tours, offering a unique opportunity to learn about Islamic culture and architecture. Its intricate design and peaceful atmosphere make it a must-visit.
I particularly enjoyed the guide’s thoughtful explanations about his faith and loved experiencing the inside of a mosque for the first time—it was truly memorable!
Price: AED 40 (16$ CAD) (includes the tour and refreshments).
Opening Hours: First guided tour: 10:00 AM. Second guided tour: 2:00 PM. Registration opens 30 minutes before each tour. Open Saturday to Thursday; closed on Fridays.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure your spot and enjoy:
- Complimentary Emirati snacks
- The upstairs Mosque of the World Gallery
- Custom henna art
Dress Code: Wear modest clothing that covers your legs, shoulders, chest, and arms. Headscarves are available on-site if needed.
How to Get There: Take a taxi or bus to Jumeirah Beach Road.
12
Camel Racing
Experience the excitement of camel racing at Al Marmoom Camel Racing Track, a blend of tradition and modern technology. Watch as camels race at incredible speeds, guided by remote-controlled robot jockeys—an event like no other!
Price: Free.
Opening Hours: Early mornings, with races typically finishing by 9am on weekends (seasonal, October to April).
Pro Tip: Check the race schedule ahead of time to ensure you catch this unique spectacle.
How to Get There: Drive or take a bus to Al Marmoom Camel Racing Track.
For all the details you need to plan your visit, check out Dubai Camel Racing Guide: Everything You Need to Know.
13
Day Bus Tour
Hop on a double-decker bus to explore Dubai’s top attractions like the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah. With audio guides and convenient stops, it’s perfect for first-time visitors or those short on time.
Price: AED 210–AED 300 (83-118$ CAD).
How to Get There: Tours start at major hubs like Dubai Mall. Booking through websites like GetYourGuide makes it super easy!
Opening Hours: Typically 9am to 6pm.
Pro Tip: Opt for a ticket that includes night tour options to experience Dubai’s dazzling cityscape after dark. You can also choose tickets with 24, 48, or 72-hour validity to fit your schedule.
Reserve Your Guided Tour Through GetYourGuide
Booking a guided tour is often the best choice for many reasons. It can simplify trip planning, eliminate the stress of organizing logistics, and ensure you don’t miss any highlights. When it comes to booking tours, we trust GetYourGuide. We’ve taken numerous tours with them and have always had positive experiences. For this activity, here is an option we believe is among the best.
Dubai: City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour – Click Here
14
AYA Universe
AYA Universe is a creative Dubai attraction blending digital and physical worlds with 12 vibrant, interactive zones. Perfect for unforgettable memories and Instagram-worthy photos!
My Honest Opinion: AYA Universe is one of the best activities for families in Dubai, especially with young kids, as the interactive elements are captivating. I enjoyed my visit, but for the price, it’s not a must-see attraction. If you’re on a tight budget or short on time, you can skip it without missing out on Dubai’s highlights.
Price: AED 135 for adults (53$ CAD); children under 3 enter free.
How to Get There: Located in Wafi City Mall, the nearest metro station is Dubai Healthcare City. From there, it’s a short taxi ride or a 10-minute walk.
Opening Hours: Sunday to Thursday: 10am – 10pm. Friday to Saturday: 10am – 12am.
Pro Tip: Visit on weekdays for smaller crowds and more space to explore and take photos. Plan to spend 1.5 to 2 hours to fully enjoy all the zones.
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15
Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is a striking 150-meter-tall structure designed to showcase panoramic views of both old and new Dubai from its sky bridge.
While it’s an architectural marvel with unique photo opportunities, it’s not a must-do. The ticket price feels steep, and you can spot it for free from the metro or a taxi. Save your money for more worthwhile experiences!
Price: AED 50 for adults (19$ CAD); AED 20 for children (8$ CAD).
How to Get There: Al Jafiliya Metro station.
Opening Hours: Daily, 9am to 9pm.
16
The Palm Jumeirah
The Palm Jumeirah, a stunning man-made island shaped like a palm tree, offers breathtaking views and iconic attractions. Don’t miss The View at The Palm, a 240-meter-high observation deck with a panoramic 360-degree perspective.
Price: AED 100 (39$ CAD) for The View at The Palm (prices increase for higher levels).
How to Get There: Take the monorail to Nakheel Mall station, where you’ll find the entrance to The View.
Opening Hours: Daily, 9:00am to 7:30pm.
Pro Tip: Sunset is the best time to visit for magical golden-hour views and perfect photo opportunities.
My Honest Opinion: I didn’t try this activity myself, but fellow travelers mentioned the view can be underwhelming due to sand-induced haze. Higher observation levels also come with a significant price increase. While I didn’t feel I missed much, it could still be worth it for panoramic view enthusiasts.
17
Best Beaches to Visit
Dubai boasts some of the most beautiful beaches, offering crystal-clear waters, pristine sands, and incredible skyline views. Here are the top beaches to explore:
1. Jumeirah Public Beach: A popular family-friendly beach with soft sands and calm waters, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or enjoying water sports.
- Price: Free entry.
- Swimsuit Regulation: Modest swimwear is recommended, especially for women. Bikini tops and swim trunks are generally acceptable, but avoid overly revealing attire.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7, though lifeguards are on duty from 7:00am to sunset.
- Location: Near the iconic Burj Al Arab.
2. Kite Beach: Famous for its active vibe, Kite Beach is perfect for kitesurfing, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball. There are plenty of food trucks and cafés nearby to keep you fueled during the day.
- Price: Free entry (charges apply for water sports).
- Swimsuit Regulation: Casual swimwear like bikinis, one-pieces, and swim trunks is acceptable. Avoid clothing that might offend local sensibilities.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7, with lifeguards on duty from 8:00am to sunset.
3. La Mer Beach: A chic beachfront destination with a relaxed vibe, La Mer combines a pristine beach with trendy dining spots and boutique shops. It’s ideal for a mix of relaxation and entertainment.
- Price: Free entry (parking fees apply after two hours).
- Swimsuit Regulation: Respectful swimwear is mandatory. Bring a cover-up for walking around the shops and restaurants.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7; restaurants and shops typically open from 10:00am to midnight.
*As of December 2024, the beach area is undergoing reconstruction, resulting in the temporary closure of most shops and restaurants. This has created a quieter atmosphere, making it less vibrant than usual.*
4. Al Mamzar Beach Park: This tranquil beach park offers five sandy beaches, picnic spots, and barbeque areas, making it perfect for families. There are also swimming pools for those who prefer freshwater.
- Price: AED 5 (2$ CAD)per person; AED 30 (12$ CAD) for car entry.
- Swimsuit Regulation: Modest swimwear is encouraged. While bikinis are accepted, avoid overly revealing attire to respect local norms.
- Opening Hours: 8:00am to 10:00pm (daily); Tuesdays are women-only days.
5. Sunset Beach (Umm Suqeim Beach): A serene beach popular among photographers for its breathtaking sunset views and direct sightlines of the Burj Al Arab. Great for relaxation or a walk along the shore.
- Price: Free entry.
- Swimsuit Regulation: Swimwear is acceptable, but modesty is appreciated.
- Opening Hours: Open 24/7, though it’s best to visit during daylight hours for safety.
18
What to Pack for a Full Day Exploring Dubai
1. Clothing and Accessories:
- Lightweight, breathable clothing suitable for warm and humid weather.
- A swimsuit and cover-up for water activities.
- A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses for sun protection.
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals for exploring malls, souks, or outdoor attractions.
2. Essentials for Sun Protection:
- Reef-safe sunscreen (high SPF) to protect your skin and the environment. Click here!
- Refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day. Click here!
- Aloe vera gel or after-sun lotion for soothing skin after sun exposure. Click here!
3. Beach and Water Activities Gear:
- A quick-drying towel for after water activities. Click here!
- A waterproof bag or dry bag to protect your belongings and phone during water activities. Click here!
- Flip-flops or water shoes for comfort at beaches or pools. Click here!
4. Tech and Gadgets:
- Waterproof camera or GoPro to capture stunning scenery and water adventures. Click here!
- A power bank to keep your phone and other devices charged. Click here!
- Maps or a downloaded offline map app like Maps.Me in case of limited cell service.
5. Personal Items:
- Your passport or a copy of it for identification purposes.
- Credit/debit cards and some cash in UAE dirhams for small purchases or tips.
- Insect repellent for evening outdoor activities near water. Click here!
- A small first-aid kit with bandages, antiseptic wipes, and any personal medications. Click here!
6. Snacks and Extras:
- Lightweight snacks like granola bars for energy between meals.
- A reusable shopping bag for any souvenirs you might pick up.
7. Additional Dubai-Specific Tips:
- Dress Code: Be mindful of local customs and dress modestly, especially in public areas and religious sites.
- Hydration: The heat can be intense, so drink water frequently throughout the day.
- Best Time to Visit: Plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak heat.
- Mosque Visits: Women should bring a headscarf for visiting mosques like the Jumeirah Mosque.
By packing these essentials, you’ll be well-prepared to enjoy all the activities, adventures, and water related activities Dubai has to offer!
Final Thoughts
Dubai’s diversity ensures there’s something for every traveler. From futuristic wonders to cultural landmarks, thrilling adventures to gourmet treats, the city offers endless opportunities to create lifelong memories. Plan your trip today and immerse yourself in the magic of Dubai!
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