Top Things to do in Dubai in 2024

When we think of Dubai, one of the first things that comes to mind are the endless desserts and butter-smooth dunes. A Desert safari in Dubai is one of the most popular activities and one of the top things to do in Dubai.  

• Open and Close Time: Tours typically start in the afternoon and last until evening.
• Entry Fee: AED 150 - AED 300 per person, depending on the chosen tour package.
• Best For: Adventure seekers and those looking to experience traditional Bedouin culture.
• Best Time to Visit: Afternoon for desert activities and sunset for magical desert views.

Cruise along the Dubai Marina on a traditional dhow cruise or a luxury yacht for breathtaking views of the city's modern skyline. Dine at one of the waterfront restaurants or indulge in a shopping spree at The Walk and The Beach.

• Open and Close Time: Open 24 hours a day 
• Entry Fee: Free
• Best For: couples, families, and those seeking a leisurely waterfront experience.
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for stunning sunset views and vibrant atmosphere

The hot air balloon ride over the Dubai deserts is one of the most memorable and adventurous activities that one can take part in. As the balloons fly high over the sky, you get to experience the amazing vistas and sunsets. This jaw-dropping experience is one of the best adventurous ways to see Dubai. 

• Open and Close Time: Tours typically start before sunrise and last for approximately 4 hours.
• Entry Fee: Prices vary depending on the tour operator and package, ranging from AED 900 to AED 1500 per person.
• Best For: Adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those seeking a unique aerial perspective of Dubai.
• Best Time to Visit: Early morning for the sunrise ride when the desert is at its most serene and the temperatures are cooler.

Reaching At the top, Burj Khalifa is one of the top things to do in Dubai. Ascend the observation deck of the tallest building in the world for sweeping views of Dubai's skyline. Enjoy breathtaking views that extend across the city and beyond.

• Open and Close Time: 8:30 AM - 11:00 PM (Daily)
• Entry Fee: AED 149 - AED 379 per person, depending on time of visit and experience package.
• Best for: tourists seeking awe-inspiring views and memorable photo opportunities.
• Best Time to Visit: early morning for sunrise views or late afternoon for sunset vistas

Shopping Malls in Dubai are world-famous and considered some of the best in the world. Dubai has been a primary shopping destination in the last couple of decades. The Dubai shopping festival is one of the major shopping festivals in the world and attracts millions of shoppers to Dubai every year. The shopping malls in Dubai have everything: stores, restaurants, entertainment zones, and even underground aquariums. A visit to one of the malls should be part of your Dubai vacation. 

• Open and Close Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Sunday to Wednesday), 10:00 AM - 1:00 AM (Thursday to Saturday)
• Entry Fee: Free
• Best For: Shopaholics, families, and entertainment enthusiasts.
• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds or evenings for the spectacular fountain show

This is one of the most surreal activities in Dubai. I-Fly Dubai is an indoor skydiving arena where people of all ages can try skydiving. The instructions are pretty simple, and you will have a professional guide helping you on the fly. This is especially a great choice for people who are apprehensive about taking part in actual skydiving and also never forget check more about things to do in skydiving.

• Time to visit: 10 AM to 8 PM 
• Time to spend: 3 hours
• Charges per person: AED 149

Get up close and personal with marine life at the Dubai Aquarium, home to thousands of aquatic animals. Walk through the underwater tunnel or experience a thrilling shark dive for an unforgettable adventure.

• Open and Close Time: 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Daily)
• Entry Fee: AED 175 for Explorer Experience, AED 300 for Explorer Plus Experience
• Best For: Families, marine enthusiasts, and thrill-seekers.
• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings to avoid crowds or late afternoons for feeding sessions.

Visit Global Village to immerse yourself in a cultural extravaganza with pavilions representing more than 75 nations. Enjoy international cuisine, go shopping for one-of-a-kind souvenirs, and take in live entertainment.

• Open and Close Time: 4:00 PM - 12:00 AM (Sunday to Wednesday), 4:00 PM - 1:00 AM (Thursday to Saturday), closed on Mondays
• Entry Fee: AED 15 per person
• Best For: Families, foodies, and those interested in global cultures.
• Best Time to Visit: Evenings for lively atmosphere and cooler weather.

Relax and unwind at Kite Beach, a popular beach and water sports destination. Enjoy kite surfing, beach volleyball, or simply soak up the sun on the soft sands.

• Open and Close Time: Open 24 hours (public beach access)
• Entry Fee: Free
• Best For: Beach lovers, sports enthusiasts, and families.
• Best Time to Visit: Early mornings for tranquility or late afternoons for beach activities.

The Etihad Museum is a modern, contemporary museum focusing on the history of the UAE. The museums showcase the birth, growth, political, and social aspects of the country. It is one of the unique experiences in Dubai. 

Also check out other famous Museums in Dubai such as Women's Museum, Coffee Museum, Antique Museum and Dubai Museum. 

• Time to visit: 10 AM to 8 PM
• Charges per person: 100 AED

The Dubai Opera Center is one of the most beautiful architectural pieces in the country. It resembles the shape of the Dhow boats. This performance center can host up to 2000 people for various shows. It is also one of the best places to get a glimpse of the Dubai Fountain show. 

• Open and Close Time: Timing varies based on events and performances.
• Entry Fee: Ticket prices vary based on event and seating category.
• Best For: Performing arts enthusiasts, culture lovers, and music aficionados.
• Best Time to Visit: Evenings for performances or during special events and festivals

Enjoy a leisurely stroll along the scenic Dubai Marina Walk, lined with cafes, restaurants, and boutiques. Marvel at the luxurious yachts and waterfront skyscrapers as you soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

•  Open and Close Time: Open 24 hours
•  Entry Fee: Free
•  Best For: Couples, families, and those seeking a relaxed waterfront experience.
•  Best Time to Visit: Evenings for cooler temperatures and illuminated skyline views.

Desert camping is one of the most unique and interesting experiences. Dubai is a prominent desert region, and a lot of people like to camp in the deserts and experience the wilderness and nature surrounding them and if you are so fascinating about deserts then add Desert Safari in your list.

• Official Website to book: Desert Camping
• Time to visit: 6 PM to 8 AM
• Charges per person: AED 250 

Take a traditional abra ride along Dubai Creek to get a taste of the history of the city's maritime culture. Discover the vibrant souks by the waterfront, the ancient homes, and the cultural sites beside the creek.

• Open and Close Time: 5:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Daily)
• Entry Fee: AED 1 - AED 2 per person, depending on the route
• Best For: History buffs, culture enthusiasts, and those seeking authentic Dubai experiences.
• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon or evening for cooler temperatures and illuminated waterfront views.

Take in the captivating show of lights, music, and water that is the Dubai Fountain. Admire the perfectly timed fountain jet choreography against the Burj Khalifa backdrop.

• Open and Close Time: Evening shows start at 6:00 PM and run every 30 minutes until 11:00 PM.
• Entry Fee: Free
• Best For: Visitors of all ages, especially those seeking a magical evening experience.
• Best Time to Visit: Evening for the illuminated fountain show against the night sky.

Escape the desert heat and hit the slopes at Ski Dubai, the Middle East's first indoor ski resort. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, or simply play in the snow at this winter wonderland.

• Open and Close Time: 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM (Sunday to Wednesday), 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM (Thursday to Saturday)
• Entry Fee: AED 250 - AED 410 per person, depending on the chosen package and activities.
• Best For: Snow sports enthusiasts, families, and those seeking a unique indoor experience.
• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for fewer crowds or evenings for a cozy après-ski atmosphere.

The Helicopter tour of Dubai is a unique experience. This exquisite activity explores Dubai from a bird's-eye view and takes you up close to all the skyscrapers. The best time to do the activity would be during the golden hours. 

• Official Website to book: Helicopter Ride, Dubai
• Time to visit: 10 AM to 11 pm
• Charges per person: AED 3900 per flight 

Quad biking is a fun adventure activity in the desert. You can hop on a quad bike and dune bashing to your heart's content. The best part about it is that you do not need much time to learn how to operate one. This can be combined with your desert camping or desert safari activities. 

• Official Website to book: Desert Quad Biking
• Time to visit: 4 PM to 8 PM 
• Charges per person: AED 250

Adventure junkies should have wakeboarding on their list of things to do in Dubai. You strap yourself to a speedboat and zoom past the waters and play around with the wakeboard. While the activity is preferred by purists, it has gained immense popularity in no time. 

• Official Website to book: Wakeboarding Dubai 
• Time to visit: 10 AM to 5 PM 
• Time to Spend: ( 30 min/ 1 hr/ 2 hr) 

The Souks of Dubai are one of the best ways to experience the traditional and rural Dubai. The souks are traditional antique market places in Dubai where the local traders sell products at some of the most competitive prices.

There are specific souks for specific specialty products, i.e., the gold souk for gold and jewelry shopping, the spice souk for spice shopping, and so on. It is a shopper’s heaven. 

Can you believe in the concept of an indoor rain forest? You will not believe your eyes in Dubai when you visit this green planet. It exposes you to a whole new dimension of exotic varieties of flora and fauna in the form of a vertical rain forest. You will tour this green planet for about 3 hours, with the expert team explaining everything about the varieties there. The admission price to this man-made forest is about INR 1800. 

• Time to visit: 10 AM to 8 PM
• Charges per person: AED 80

Stay at one of the luxurious resorts on the iconic Palm Jumeirah island, offering private beaches and world-class amenities. Take a stroll along the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk for stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline.

• Open and Close Time: Open 24 hours (public areas)
• Entry Fee: Free
• Best For: Luxury travelers, honeymooners, and beach enthusiasts.
• Best Time to Visit: Year-round for luxurious beachfront experiences and iconic views

Relax and unwind at La Mer, a vibrant beachfront destination offering a mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Enjoy water sports, beach activities, or simply lounge on the pristine sands.

• Open and Close Time: Open 24 hours (public beach access); operating hours for restaurants and attractions vary.
• Entry Fee: Free
• Best For: Families, friends, and those seeking a trendy beach experience.
• Best Time to Visit: Evenings for cooler temperatures and lively atmosphere.

At Dubai Autodrome, a cutting-edge racing complex that offers track days, karting, and driving experiences, you can feel the excitement of motorsports. Compete against friends or show off your abilities on official racetracks.

• Open and Close Time: Timing varies based on events and bookings.
• Entry Fee: Prices vary based on selected activities and packages.
• Best For: Motorsports enthusiasts, adrenaline junkies, and thrill-seekers.
• Best Time to Visit: During scheduled events or track days for maximum excitement.

Marvel at the world's largest flower garden featuring over 50 million blooming flowers arranged in stunning designs. Capture Instagram-worthy photos amidst colorful floral sculptures and themed displays.

• Open and Close Time: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Sunday to Thursday), 9:00 AM - 11:00 PM (Friday and Saturday)
• Entry Fee: AED 55 per person (adults), AED 40 per person (children 3-12 years old), free for children under 3 years old
• Best For: Nature lovers, photography enthusiasts, and families.
• Best Time to Visit: Cooler months (November to March) when flowers are in full bloom

Step into a tropical paradise at the Dubai Butterfly Garden, home to thousands of colorful butterflies from around the world. Explore themed gardens, waterfalls, and educational exhibits highlighting the life cycle of butterflies.

• Open and Close Time: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Daily)
• Entry Fee: AED 55 for adults, AED 25 for children (3-12 years old), free for children under 3 years old
• Best For: Families, nature lovers, and those interested in entomology.
• Best Time to Visit: Mornings when butterflies are most active, or weekdays to avoid crowds.

At IMG Worlds of Adventure, the biggest indoor theme park globally, discover your inner superhero. Take pleasure in thrilling rides, live performances, and interactive activities that are modeled after your favorite films and characters.

• Open and Close Time: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Sunday to Wednesday), 10:00 AM - 11:00 PM (Thursday to Saturday)
• Entry Fee: AED 299 per person (general admission)
• Best For: Families, thrill-seekers, and fans of comics and movies.
• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays for shorter wait times, or early mornings to avoid crowds.

From the Dubai Frame, an architectural icon that provides sweeping views of both old and new Dubai, take in the futuristic skyline of this city. Discover the museum's interactive exhibits and installations that highlight the past, present, and future of the city.

• Open and Close Time: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Daily)
• Entry Fee: AED 50 for adults, AED 20 for children (3-12 years old), free for children under 3 years old
• Best For: Photography enthusiasts, history buffs, and architecture lovers.
• Best Time to Visit: Late afternoon for golden hour views or evenings for illuminated cityscape.

Experience the Wild Wadi Waterpark's heart-pounding water slides, leisurely rivers, and underwater adventures. Take part in exhilarating rides and attractions that are appropriate for all age groups, such as the renowned Jumeirah Sceirah.

• Daily Hours of Operation: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
• Entry Fee: AED 336 per person (above 1.1 meters), AED 284 per person (below 1.1 meters)
• Best For: Families, thrill-seekers, and water park enthusiasts.
• Best Time to Visit: Weekdays to avoid crowds or early mornings for shorter queues.

Discover one of the world's largest gold markets at the Gold Souk in Deira. Browse a stunning collection of gold jewelry, diamonds, and precious gemstones at competitive prices.

• Open and Close Time: 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM (Saturday to Thursday), 4:00 PM - 10:00 PM (Friday)
• Entry Fee: Free
• Best For: Jewelry enthusiasts, shoppers, and cultural explorers.
• Best Time to Visit: Mornings for a quieter shopping experience or evenings for a bustling atmospher