If you blink for too long, you’ll have missed a new attraction in Dubai opening.

The city has an abundance of incredible places to visit, whether you’re here on holiday or just searching for somewhere to visit on the weekend.

Nowhere can you spend the morning in the tallest building in the world, followed up by an afternoon skiing in the desert.

If you like reading this: 50 things to do for under Dhs50 in Dubai

It’s time to tick off your must-see Dubai bucket list – check out the best attractions in Dubai below.

Alserkal Avenue

Dubai’s artiest area is Al Quoz, and there are loads of exhibitions to check out. Head to Alserkal Avenue and wander around to really soak it all up. Plus, there are loads of super-trendy coffee shops to check out – we’d recommend Nightjar Coffee Roasters and Wild & The Moon. A must-see in Dubai for artsy types.
Open Sat-Thu 10am-7pm. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, alserkalavenue.ae (04 333 3464).

Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack

A camel might, at first, seem an ungainly animal, but they’re actually far more graceful than that. The desert-dwelling beasts can reach speeds of up to 65kmh and races are every bit as entertaining as you’re picturing right now. Dubai’s famous camel racetrack, Al Marmoom is open every winter if you want to watch camel racing – a centuries-old tradition – in Dubai. A must-see while visiting the city.
Opening dates and times vary. Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack, Al Ain Road (055 676 0006).

Al Seef

Al Seef is an area of Dubai steeped in history, with a huge amount of Emirati culture. The must-see area leans heavily on the contemporary elements of life in Dubai but also has a nostalgic twist. There are plenty of things to do by the waterfront from sightseeing to shopping.
Open daily 10am-midnight. Al Seef, Dubai Creek, www.alseef.ae.

Atlantis The Palm

This must-see Palm Jumeirah hotel is sprawling and full of activities and top-notch restaurants. There’s everything from helicopter rides, tennis and scuba diving to dolphin encounters and stingray feeding sessions. It’s also home to The Lost Chambers Aquarium, as well as the massive Aquaventure Waterpark, which features thrilling rides.
Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, atlantis.com/dubai (04 426 2000).

At The Top, Burj Khalifa

Whether you’re taking in the world’s tallest building from the ground (on the bridge between Souk Al Bahar and The Dubai Mall) or from the At The Top observation deck on the 124th floor, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa is a must-see for all.
Prices vary. Open daily 9am-11pm. Downtown Dubai, burjkhalifa.ae (800 2884 3867).

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

Dubai’s Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is one of the most iconic buildings in the Middle East, if not the world, making it a must-see attraction in the city. The sail-shaped building opened in 1999 and has been a symbol of opulence and exclusivity ever since. It houses eleven restaurants and bars and if you want to feel like royalty, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is a must-see and must-visit for just that.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim (04 301 7777).

Desert safari

Dubai lies directly within the Arabian Desert and the sandy dunes on the city’s outskirts are a must-see. Popular local tour operator Arabian Adventures runs dozens of different types of excursions, both around Dubai and out into the desert, giving visitors a taste of both Arabian traditions and the emirate’s modern identity.
Prices and times vary. Pick-ups across Dubai, arabian-adventures.com (04 214 4888).

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is a must-see for fans of sea life. Take on a shark encounter, meet the aquarium’s resident crocodile, and marvel at the piranhas, crabs, water rats and the swarms of fish that inhabit the huge tank inside The Dubai Mall.
From Dhs199, open weekdays 10am-11pm, weekends 10am-midnight. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, thedubaiaquarium.com (800 3822 46255).

Dubai Creek

From the city’s newest attractions to one of its oldest, Dubai Creek has served as a lifeline for the community for centuries. Abras cross the water every minute or so and will cost you just Dhs2. It’s a short trip to the other side, but it’s a must-see and a top chance to explore ‘old Dubai’. Embrace Dubai’s past with a sail across Dubai Creek and get ready to be taken back to everything Dubai is really about. You can even get free entry to a museum just by arriving on one – what a bargain.
From Dhs2, Dubai Creek, Bur Dubai.

Dubai Frame

It isn’t just a stand-out structure that captures the city in a colossal-sized frame, visitors can actually go inside and up to the bridge of Dubai Frame over at Zabeel Park. And, the views of ‘old’ and ‘new’ Dubai from a 150-metre-high sky glass bridge look superb whether you’re there for the day, sunset or at night. The bridge has a completely see-through bottom to it – walk across it and be labelled one of the bravest of the bunch at this must-see Dubai attraction.
Dhs50.Open daily 9am-9pm. Zabeel Park, dubaiframe.ae.

Dubai Gold Souk

Bargain, anyone? One of Dubai’s must-see attractions has to be its wonderful souks and if you’re looking to get more karats for your cash a trip to the Gold Souk is a must. The Gold Souk has hundreds of retailers offering a selection of jewellery, diamonds and other precious stones and many visitors are able to get their hands on a few new jewellery pieces at a fraction of the price they might normally expect to pay at home.
Deira, Dubai.

Dubai Miracle Garden

If you’re yet to pay a visit to Dubai Miracle Garden, then it’s about time you get this spectacular must-see Dubai attraction on your list. Located just outside Jumeirah Village Circle, the gardens will close on June 2 for the summer season, so make sure to visit while you can.

With millions of flowers, huge constructs made entirely of fresh blooms and more, you’ll want to make a beeline for this must-see attraction as soon as you can.
From Dhs95. Open weekdays 9am-9pm, weekends 9am-11pm. Jumeirah Village Circle, dubaimiraclegarden.com (04 422 8902).

Dubai Opera

If anyone ever dares tell you that Dubai is lacking in culture, send them to Dubai Opera. Since opening in Downtown Dubai in 2016, the stunning dhow-shaped building been a hub for theatre, musicals, operas, ballet and comedians and has fast become one of the world’s most impressive performing arts venues. Whether you’re checking out a show or just want to see the stunning piece of architecture yourself, this is a must-see while in Dubai.
Dubai Opera, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai dubaiopera.com (04 440 8888).

Dubai Safari

Inviting families to see animals from across the world in one place, this is where to head for a really wild time. Dubai Safari Park is home to more than 3,000 animals and is split into four sections. The Asian Village houses tigers, moon bears, and gibbons, African Village is home to animals including lions and giraffes, and in Arabian Village, you’ll find Arabian Oryx, camels, Arabian wolves and mountain gazelles. Finally, there’s Explorer Village where visitors are taken on a safari bus tour around the park. This glorious wildlife experience is unmissable, especially for animal lovers.

The park will close on June 2 for the summer season, so be sure to stop in before then.

From Dhs50 (adults), Dhs20 (kids), free (kids under three). Open daily, 9am-5pm. Al Warqa 5. dubaisafari.ae.

Etihad Museum

Etihad Museum takes visitors on a unique journey through decades of remarkable progress. The striking culture spot, which is shaped like a manuscript, includes permanent and temporary halls, a theatre, an educational area, interactive maps and videos, and more. It’s a must-see if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the past.
Dhs25 (adult), Dhs10(child), Open daily 10am-8pm. Jumeirah 1, Dubai, etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.ae (04 515 5771).

Hatta

Despite being about an hour and a half drive (130km-150km) from most neighbourhoods in central Dubai, Hatta is in fact an area of the emirate. Hatta borders Oman and the best time to visit the must-see mountain district is during the cooler months as it’s a haven for outdoor adventures and activities. Check out our guide on everything to do in Hatta to plan your trip before you go.

Hatta, Dubai

IMG Worlds of Adventure

IMG Worlds of Adventure is the biggest indoor theme park on the planet making it another must-see attraction in the city. It’s home to four gigantic indoor zones and some pretty thrilling rides making it an awesome day out for all.
Open Sun-Wed 11am-11pm, Thu-Sat 11am-11pm. Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road, Dubai, imgworlds.com (04 403 8888).

Jumeirah Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque is one of the few mosques in town open to non-Muslims, and it’s well worth immersing yourself in the city’s culture and learning about Islam. You can join a tour with the Sheikh Mohammed Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding every day at 10am bar Friday, and you can get a full mosque visit, where a guide will explain the wudu – cleansing process before prayers – with a tour of the mosque and Arabic coffee afterwards. There’s a Q&A too.
Cost: Dhs40.
Open Sat-Thurs, tours at 10am & 2pm, Jumeirah, jumeirahmosque.ae (04 353 6666).

La Perle Dubai

This is one of Dubai’s must-see attractions. The spectacular Las Vegas-style theatre show is a stunning production filled with gravity-defying performances – most of which take place over water. A show-stopping experience that has to be seen to be believed.
Prices and timings vary. Al Habtoor City, Dubai, laperle.com (04 437 0001).

Madame Tussauds

It might not be the real thing, but it’s as close as most of us are going to get to meeting a celeb. Snap a selfie with some A-listers, from Dwayne Johnson to Justin Timberlake, and even say hello to the Chris Hemsworth waxwork, who is on loan for the summer from the Vienna museum. UAE residents are eligible for a summer discount too, so make the most of the deal while you can.

From Dhs150 (adult), children under 11 free with each paying adult (May 1- Aug 31). Sun-Thurs noon-8pm. Bluewaters Island, Dubai Marina, madametussauds.com (04 873 3042).

Museum of the Future

It’s being called the most beautiful building on Earth, and we say for good reason. The architectural and engineering marvel opened up early in 2022 and it takes visitors on a journey into the future. The building combines advanced technology with traditional art-forms, and the museum has spectacular experiences for all ages. A must-visit for sure.

Dhs149 (children below 3 and people of determination go for free). Museum of the Future, Trade Centre, museumofthefuture.ae/en (800 2071).

Museum of Illusions

Get some hilarious family photos and take everyone down to the Museum of Illusions during the Eid holiday. You won’t believe your eyes as each of you adjust to the visual trickery, including floating heads and shrinking you down to minute size.

Take a deep breath as you trundle through the vortex tunnel — it’s sure to leave your head spinning!

From Dhs90. Mon-Thurs 10am-10pm, Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Seef, Dubai Creek, museumofillusionsdubai.com (04 357 3999).

Shindagha Museum

Get a bit of culture in this summer and visit the UAE’s largest heritage site, where you can learn more about the tales of the first residents of Dubai Creek. Get a flavour for Emirati life in years gone by, and what’s more, if you arrive at the museum via an RTA abra, your entry is completely free instead of the usual Dhs50 – what a saving!

Open daily 10am – 8pm (last entry 7pm). Al Shindagha Museum, Al Shindagha, alshindagha.dubaiculture.gov.ae (800 33 222).

Ski Dubai

Sure, there are sand dunes to be seen, but you can’t come to Dubai without checking out its phenomenal must-see indoor ski slope, which now not only provides great runs for skiers and boarders, but is also home to a colony of penguins and a snow park for all kinds of winter-themed fun.
From Dhs220. Open Mon-Thurs 10am-11pm, Fri 10am-midnight,Sat-Sun 9am-midnight. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, skidxb.com (800 386).

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Souk Madinat Jumeirah is your go-to for the top places to eat and things to do in Dubai. An idyllic stretch is made up of three stunning hotels – Jumeirah Al Naseem, Jumeirah Mina A’Salam and Jumeirah Al Qasr– which are all connected through turquoise waterways. A maze of corridors with kiosks selling trinkets and souvenirs lend the effect of a souk, but the complex also houses a huge number of fantastic restaurants and bars – many of which boast beautiful views of the shoreline and neighbouring Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. As such, it’s a popular must-see Dubai spot for both tourists and residents.
Open daily 8am-2am. Al Sufouh Road, jumeirah.com (04 366 8888).

Spice Souk

Whether you love cooking, haggling or just exploring a part of the city that’s not dominated by skyscrapers, a visit to Dubai’s Spice Souk is a must. Roaming through the narrow alleyways, packed full of bags of vibrantly coloured spices, this is a must-see for visitors and residents alike.
Baniyas Street, Deira.

The Dubai Fountain

Delightful by day and enchanting in the evening, The Dubai Fountain show in Downtown Dubai is a must-see for residents and tourists alike. The fountain is more than 900ft in length – the equivalent of two football pitches – and shoots water into the sky to a range of different songs, from classical music to contemporary Arabian tracks and classic pop songs. A definite must-see Dubai attraction.
Free. Daily 6pm-11pm. Sat-Thu 1pm & 1.30pm, Fri 1.30pm and 2pm (every 30 mins).

The Dubai Mall

Of course, this mall had to make our must-see Dubai list. Even if you aren’t able to indulge in a spot of retail therapy, the world’s second-biggest mall is still a must-see. From the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo to the Dubai Ice Rink, there’s plenty to do and see. For more about The Dubai Mall, head here.
Open Mon-Fri 10am-midnight, Fri-Sun 10am-1am, Downtown Dubai, thedubaimall.com (800 382246255).

The Green Planet

Yes, it’s exactly what it says on the tin. The Green Planet is Dubai’s indoor rainforest (as you do). Inviting guests on a wild adventure, walk through the different floors of the rainforest as you make your way up to the canopy. Home to thousands of cute and creepy creatures from bats and monkeys to birds and even piranhas, it’s a great place to make some forest friends and learn about their habitat.
From Dhs155. City Walk, Al Wasl, thegreenplanetdubai.com (800 7699).

The View at the Palm

Catch stunning 360-degree views 240 meters above the world-famous Palm Jumeirah. From level 52 of the iconic Palm Tower, the viewing deck sees you spying Dubai’s iconic landmarks around the city and discovering hidden gems. Look around your favourite city with an eye you’ve never used before.

Tickets from Dhs100. Daily, from 9am-11pm. The View, Palm Jumeirah, theviewpalm.ae

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