Discover the Best Things to Do in Dubai in 2025
As winter descends upon Dubai, the city is transformed into a playground of endless possibilities. From exhilarating outdoor adventures to immersive indoor activities, Dubai offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to shop at some of the world’s most iconic malls or dive into the vibrant nightlife, we’ve curated a list of 112 must-see attractions and experiences that capture the essence of this dynamic city.
- Attractions and Things to Do in Dubai
- Culture in Dubai
- Dining Experiences and Restaurants in Dubai
- Nightlife in Dubai
- Off the Beaten Track
- Spas, Sports, and Wellbeing in Dubai
- Family Fun in Dubai
Best Things to Do in Dubai: Attractions
Ain Dubai
Experience the world’s largest observation wheel, Ain Dubai, which has recently reopened to the public after a two-year maintenance hiatus. Soaring to 250 meters, this iconic landmark offers breathtaking views over Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and the Dubai Marina.
From Dhs145 (aged 12+), From Dhs115 (aged 3+), Free (infants under 3). Ain Dubai, Bluewaters Island. aindubai.com
Cruise Past The Dubai Fountain
For an unforgettable view of the breathtaking Burj Khalifa, hop on a boat for a leisurely cruise around the lake. You can also enjoy pedalos, a floating garden, kayaks, and water bikes, making it one of the best introductions to Dubai.
Dubai Fountain, Dubai Mall, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, thedubaimall.com (800 28843867).
Dress Up and Visit Burj Al Arab
A visit to this luxurious hotel is not complete without a reservation. Opt for a drink at Gilt, a day at the infinity pool, or indulge in afternoon tea at the Skyview Lounge for stunning views of the city.
Burj Al Arab, Umm Suqeim, jumeirah.com (800 323 232).
Experience the Rainforest at The Green Planet
Yearning for wildlife? Visit The Green Planet, an indoor rainforest where you can meet sloths and marvel at exotic birds flying overhead.
From Dhs155 (adult), Dhs135 (junior). Open daily 10am-6pm. City Walk, Al Wasl, thegreenplanetdubai.com (800 7699).
Explore the Underwater World at Deep Dive Dubai
Dive into adventure at Deep Dive Dubai, the world’s deepest diving facility. At 60 meters deep, it features a sunken city for divers of all levels, with options for freediving, snorkeling, and scuba diving courses.
From Dhs1,200. Open daily 9am-6pm. Nad Al Sheba, deepdivedubai.com.
Museum of Illusions
Bring the family for a day of fun at the Museum of Illusions, where optical illusions and interactive exhibits will challenge your perception. Don’t miss the vortex tunnel that will leave you dizzy!
From Dhs90. Mon-Thu, 10am-10pm, Fri-Sun 10am-11pm. Al Seef, Dubai Creek, museumofillusionsdubai.com (04 357 3999).
Explore Palm Jumeirah
This man-made marvel is a feat of engineering. Take a walk along the boardwalk or ride the Palm Monorail for spectacular views.
Madame Tussauds
Snap a selfie with lifelike wax figures of your favorite celebrities at Madame Tussauds. With stars from Dwayne Johnson to Justin Timberlake, it’s a must-visit for fans.
Dhs150 (adult), Dhs550 (family of four). Open daily 10.30am-7.30pm. Bluewaters Island, Dubai Marina, madametussauds.com (04 873 3042).
Sky Views Dubai
For thrill-seekers, the Sky Views observation deck at Address Sky View Hotel offers glass walks and a zip line from 220 meters above the ground.
Dhs80, Dhs499 (edge walk). Open daily 10am-10pm. Address Sky View Hotel, Downtown Dubai, skyviewsdubai.com (04 873 8888).
Atlantis The Royal
Admire the luxurious Atlantis The Royal, which features fine dining options and captivating views over the Palm.
Palm Jumeirah, atlantis.com (04 426 3000).
Burj Khalifa
Ascend to the observation deck on the 148th floor of the world’s tallest building, standing at an astonishing 828 meters high.
Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, burjkhalifa.ae (04 888 8888).
Dubai Sightseeing Bus Tour
Explore the city from the comfort of a sightseeing bus and take in the major attractions without the hassle of driving.
Various locations, bigbustours.com (04 3407709).
Dubai Hills Mall
Experience ‘The Storm’, the fastest indoor roller coaster in Dubai, for an adrenaline-pumping ride.
From Dhs65. Sun-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Dubai Hills Mall, Dubai Hills Estate, entertainment.emaar.com (04 448 5033).
Dubai Butterfly Garden
Visit the enchanting Butterfly Garden, home to over 15,000 butterflies of more than 50 species.
From Dhs60. Open daily 9am-6pm. Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand Area, dubaibutterflygarden.com (04 422 8902).
The Beach at JBR
Stroll along The Beach at JBR, a perfect spot for sunset views and people-watching, with plenty of dining options.
The Beach, JBR, thebeach.ae (04 3173999).
Dubai Creek Abra Ride
Board an abra for a traditional and affordable ride across Dubai Creek, offering a glimpse into the city’s rich history.
Dhs2. Dubai Creek, rta.ae.
Skydive Dubai
For the adventurous, experience the thrill of skydiving over the stunning Palm Jumeirah.
From Dhs2,199 (tandem skydive). Skydive Dubai, Dubai Marina, skydivedubai.com (04 377 8888).
Cloud 22 Night Swim
Take a moonlit dip at Cloud 22, a sought-after rooftop pool with stunning views of Palm Jumeirah.
From Dhs300. Every Thu to Sat, 7pm-11pm. Cloud 22, Atlantis the Royal, Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis.com (04 426 2700).
IMG Worlds of Adventure
Enjoy thrilling rides at IMG Worlds of Adventure, the largest indoor theme park in the world.
From Dhs365. Sun-Thu noon-10pm, Fri-Sat, noon-11pm. Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, imgworlds.com (04 403 8888).
Jungle Bay Waterpark
Perfect for family fun, Jungle Bay features slides, a splash park, and a wave pool.
From Dhs200, or Dhs100 (kids aged four-12). Open daily 10am-6pm. Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Dubai Marina, marriott.com (04 399 3333).
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
Embark on an underwater adventure at Dubai Aquarium, where you can swim with sharks.
From Dhs199. Mon-Fri, 10am-10.15pm, Fri-Sat, 10am-11.15pm. Dubai Aquarium, Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, thedubaiaquarium.com (800 382246255).
Ski Dubai
Experience winter wonderland vibes at Ski Dubai, where you can ski or chill with penguins.
Prices vary. Mon-Thu, 10am-11pm, Fri 10am-midnight, Sat-Sun 9am-midnight. Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, skidxb.com (800386).
Dubai Frame
Visit the Dubai Frame for panoramic views of the city’s past, present, and future from 150 meters up.
From Dhs50 (adult), Dhs20 (child). Open daily 9am-9pm. Zabeel Park, thedubaiframe.com (800900).
XLine Zip Line
Zoom over Dubai Marina on the XLine, one of the world’s longest urban zip lines.
From Dhs499. Mon-Wed, 9am-5.40pm, Thu, 9am-5pm, Fri-Sun, 9am-5.40pm. Dubai Marina Mall, Dubai Marina, xdubai.com/xline (056 507 6366).
Adventure Island
Located in JBR, Adventure Island offers an array of activities for kids, including laser tag and interactive games.
From Dhs59. Open Mon-Thu, noon-10pm, Fri-Sun noon-midnight. Bahar Plaza, Jumeirah Beach Residence, adventureisland.ae (058 833 9204).
Chaos Karts
Experience an exciting virtual reality karting adventure at Chaos Karts, perfect for older kids.
From Dhs140. Mon-Thu, 1pm-11pm, Fri-Sat 11am-midnight, Sun 11am-11pm. 6A St, Al Quoz, chaoskarts.ae (04 324 2344).
VR Park
At VR Park, choose from a variety of thrilling virtual reality games suitable for all ages.
Free entry, pay per attraction. Sun-Wed 10am-10pm, Thu-Sat, 10am-midnight. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, vrparkdubai.com (800 382246255).
Best Things to Do in Dubai: Culture
AYA Universe
Immerse yourself in a world of art and interactivity at AYA Universe, featuring 12 themed rooms that transport you to fantastical realms.
From Dhs135. Sun-Thu, 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Wafi City, Oud Metha, aya-universe.com (04 542 0300).
La Perle
Witness an incredible live show featuring acrobatics, water stunts, and breathtaking performances at La Perle.
Prices vary. Open Tue-Sat, 6.30pm-9pm. La Perle by Dragone, Al Habtoor City, laperle.com (04 437 0001).
Dubai Gold Souk
For a taste of traditional shopping, visit the bustling Gold Souk, where you can find exquisite jewelry at competitive prices.
Gold Souk, Deira.
Ripe Market
Explore Dubai’s community market, Ripe Market, for organic produce, fashion, and artisan goods.
Dhs5. Sat, 9am-9pm, Sun, 9am-7pm. The Spring Souk, ripeevents.com.
Cinema Akil
Catch a diverse selection of indie films at Cinema Akil, paired with delicious chai from Project Chaiwala.
Prices vary. Tue-Fri, 5pm-11pm, Sat-Sun, 2pm-11pm. Warehouse 68, Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz 1, cinemaakil.com (058 524 6362).
Al Quoz Art Galleries
Dive into Dubai’s artistic scene in Al Quoz, home to various galleries featuring contemporary exhibitions and workshops.
Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, alserkalavenue.ae (04 3333464).
Dubai Museum
Explore the rich history of Dubai at the Dubai Museum, housed in the historic Al Fahidi Fort.
Al Fahidi Historical District, Bur Dubai (04 353 1862).
Heritage Tour of Al Fahidi
Discover the UAE’s history through a guided heritage tour in Old Dubai, featuring a Q&A session over coffee and dates.
Dhs110. Sat, 9am. Tue-Thu, 10.30am, Fri-Sun, 9am. Al Fahidi, Bur Dubai, cultures.ae (04 353 6666).
Sustainable Desert Safari with Platinum Heritage
Experience the beauty of the UAE desert on a sustainable safari led by expert guides in vintage vehicles.
From Dhs695. platinum-heritage.com (04 412 6333).
Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Wander through this picturesque souk, designed to mimic an ancient marketplace, and enjoy stunning views of the Burj Al Arab.
Open daily 10am-11pm, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, jumeirah.com (04 366 8888).
Textile Souks
Shop for vibrant fabrics and unique finds at the textile souks in Deira, where haggling is encouraged.
Dubai Creek, Deira.
Museum of the Future
Step into the future at this architectural marvel, featuring interactive exhibits that explore the possibilities of tomorrow.
From Dhs149. Open daily 9.30am-9pm. Sheikh Zayed Road, museumofthefuture.ae (800 2071).
Theatre of Digital Art (TODA)
Immerse yourself in a multisensory art experience at the Theatre of Digital Art, showcasing masterpieces through digital projections.
Prices vary. Open daily 10am-11pm, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim, toda.ae (04 277 4044).
Sharjah Cultural Visits
Take a short trip to Sharjah, where you can explore its rich cultural offerings, including the recently restored Flying Saucer.
sharjahart.org.
MBR Library
Visit the stunning Mohammed bin Rashid Library in Dubai Creek, which boasts over 1.1 million printed and digital books.
Mon-Thu, 9am-9pm, Fri, 2pm-9pm, Sat, 9am-9pm. Dubai Creek, mbrl.ae (800 627523).
Dubai Opera
Catch a world-class performance at the iconic Dubai Opera, known for hosting a variety of cultural events.
Dubai Opera, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, dubaiopera.com (04 440 8888).
Spice Souk
Wander through the aromatic Spice Souk in Deira, where you can find a variety of spices and herbs.
Baniyas Street, Deira.
Jumeirah Mosque
One of the few mosques open to non-Muslims, Jumeirah Mosque offers cultural tours to educate visitors about Islam.
Open Sat-Thu, 10am and 8pm. Jumeirah Mosque, Jumeirah Beach Road, jumeirahmosque.ae (04 353 6666).
Etihad Museum
Uncover the history of the UAE at the Etihad Museum, located at the site where the UAE’s constitution was signed.
Dhs25. Open daily 10am-8pm. Jumeirah, etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.gov.ae (800 33222).
Al Seef Walk
Stroll along Al Seef, an area rich in Emirati culture, with plenty of cafes and shops to explore.
Al Seef, Bur Dubai, alseef.ae.
Shindagha Museum
Visit the UAE’s largest heritage site, Shindagha Museum, to learn about the history of Dubai Creek. Entry is free if you arrive via RTA abra.
Dhs15. Open daily 10am-8pm (last entry 7pm). Al Shindagha Museum, Al Shindagha, alshindagha.dubaiculture.gov.ae (800 33 222).
Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack
Witness the thrilling camel races at Al Marmoom, showcasing the grace and speed of these magnificent animals.
Opening dates and times vary. Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack, Al Ain Road (055 676 0006).
Meydan Racecourse
Enjoy a day of horse racing at Meydan, where thrilling events await throughout the season.
Meydan Racecourse, Nad Al Sheba, dubairacingclub.com (04 327 2110).
Best Things to Do in Dubai: Dining Experiences and Restaurants
Tapasake
Indulge in a unique dining experience at Tapasake, located on the longest cantilever in the world, offering a fusion of Japanese and Latin American cuisine.
Dhs385 (soft drinks), Dhs495 (house beverages and sparkling grape). Every Sat 1pm-4pm (brunch) and 4pm-6pm (pool access). The Link, One Za’abeel (04 666 1617).
Afternoon Tea on an Abra
Savor a delightful afternoon tea while cruising the Madinat Jumeirah waterways, surrounded by stunning views of the Burj Al Arab.
Dhs1,130 for two. Jumeirah Mina A’Salam, jumeirah.com (800 323 232).
Il Borro Tuscan Bistro
Dine next to turtles at Il Borro, enjoying a menu featuring exquisite Italian dishes and top-quality ingredients.
Mon-Thu, noon-3.30pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm, Sat-Sun noon-4pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm. Jumeirah Al Naseem, Umm Suqeim, ilborrotuscanbistro.com (04 275 2555).
High Society
Snap a picture at High Society, located on the rooftop of The Lana hotel, boasting stunning views of Downtown Dubai.
Sun-Wed, noon-3.30pm, 5pm-1am, Thu-Sat, noon-3.30pm, 5pm-2am. The Lana – Dorchester Collection Dubai, Business Bay, dorchestercollection.com (04 541 7755).
Karama Street Food
Discover authentic Indian street food in Karama, with O’Pao offering innovative sliders and delicious bites.
Karama, opaodxb.com.
Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant
Experience Dubai’s only revolving restaurant, serving a delightful three-course meal while you take in 360-degree views of the city.
Mon-Fri, 6.30pm-11.30pm, Sat-Sun 12.30pm-4pm, 6.30pm-11.30pm. Al Dawaar, Hyatt Regency Dubai, Naif, hyatt.com (04 209 6914).
Last Exit Food Trucks
For a more casual dining experience, visit Last Exit, a vibrant food truck park offering a diverse range of cuisines.
Last Exit, Sheikh Zayed Road, lastexit.ae (04 3173999).
La Dame de Pic
Enjoy exquisite French cuisine by renowned chef Anne-Sophie Pic at La Dame de Pic, located in The Link at One&Only Zabeel.
Tue-Sat, 12.30pm-midnight. The Link, One&Only Zabeel, oneandonlyresorts.com/la-dame-de-pic (04 666 1777).
Paradiso
Experience innovative cocktails at Paradiso, where talented mixologists craft unique beverages in an experimental bar setting.
Open Mon-Fri 7pm-2am, Sat-Sun 7pm-3am. FIVE LUXE, The Walk, JBR, luxejbr.fivehotelsandresorts.com (04 275 9999).
Dinner in the Sky
Dine suspended 50 meters in the air at Dinner in the Sky, featuring a gourmet menu and spectacular views.
From Dhs699. Open daily 2pm-11pm. Skydive Dubai, Dubai Marina, dinnerinthesky.ae (050 925 6341).
Underwater Dining at Ossiano
Indulge in a unique underwater dining experience at Ossiano, where you can enjoy your meal while gazing into the mesmerizing aquarium.
Open daily 6pm-11pm. Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, atlantis.com (04 426 2626).
SUSHISAMBA
Visit the Dubai branch of the popular London restaurant SUSHISAMBA, offering a fusion of Japanese, Brazilian, and Peruvian dishes.
Lunch: Mon-Fri noon-3pm; Dinner: Sun-Thu, 6pm-2am, Fri-Sat 6pm-3am. Level 51, St. Regis, The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, sushisamba.com (04 278 4888).
Time Out Market Dubai
Relish a variety of food from multiple vendors at Time Out Market Dubai, where you can enjoy stunning views of Burj Khalifa from the terrace.
Mon-Thu noon-midnight, Fri noon-1am; Sat 10am-1am; Sun 10am-midnight. Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, timeoutmarket.com (054 375 2421).
Carnival by Trèsind
Experience culinary theatrics at Carnival by Trèsind, known for its playful take on modern Indian cuisine.
Open daily noon-11.45pm. Burj Daman Building, DIFC, carnivalbytresind.ae (052 242 4262).
Atmosphere in Burj Khalifa
Enjoy afternoon tea or sundowners at Atmosphere, located on the 122nd floor of the iconic Burj Khalifa.
Open daily 7am-2am. Atmosphere, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, atmosphereburjkhalifa.com (04 888 3828).
Beach Club Crawl at Palm West Beach
Explore various beach clubs along Palm West Beach, each offering its unique vibe and atmosphere.
Authentic Shawarma at Al Beiruti
For the best shawarma in Dubai, head to Al Beiruti, recognized for its authentic Middle Eastern flavors.
Open 24/7, Umm Al Sheif, Sheikh Zayed Road, albeiruti.com (04 320 0043).
Afternoon Tea on the QE2
Indulge in a charming afternoon tea experience aboard the historic QE2, enjoying a selection of sandwiches and pastries.
From Dhs175 per person. Thu-Sat, 3pm-5pm. QE2, Mina Rashid, qe2.com (04 526 8888).
Best Things to Do in Dubai: Nightlife
The Irish Village
Enjoy a taste of Ireland at The Irish Village, a beloved pub known for its lively atmosphere and regular live music.
Mon-Thu, 11am-1am. Fri-Sat, 11am-2am, Sun, 11am-1am. Garhoud, theirishvillage.com (04 282 4750).
Bowling at The 44
Experience bowling at Dubai’s highest bowling alley located at The 44, where you can enjoy various games while taking in stunning views.
Open Mon-Thu, 5pm-11pm, Fri, noon-1am, Sat, 10.30am-1am, Sun, 11am-8pm. The 44, Hilton Dubai, Al Habtoor City, alhabtoorcity.com (054 581 1758).
Live Music at Q’s Bar & Lounge
Experience live jazz performances at Q’s Bar & Lounge, designed by the legendary Quincy Jones.
Show times vary. Open Wed-Sat 7pm-1am. Palazzo Versace Dubai, Al Jaddaf, palazzoversace.ae (04 556 8865).
Soho Garden Palm Jumeirah
Enjoy live sets and sundowners at Soho Garden, an exciting rooftop hangout that offers stunning views and vibrant nightlife.
Tue-Sun, 5pm-2am. Nakheel Mall Palm Jumeirah, Rooftop West, Dubai, sohogardendxb.com (054 233 5555).
The Penthouse at FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai
Relax with sunset drinks at The Penthouse, known for its chic atmosphere and breathtaking views of the city.
Open daily 4pm-4am. FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai, thepenthouse.co (052 900 4868).
Nikki Beach Playa
Experience a vibrant beach club atmosphere at Playa, featuring a mix of Peruvian and Japanese cuisine.
Dhs250 (fully redeemable), Mon-Thu, Dhs350 (fully redeemable), Daily 10am-9pm (pool), 10am-7pm (beach). The Club, Palm Jumeirah, playadxb.com (800 75292).
Barasti Beach
Party and watch sports with friends at Barasti, a lively beach bar known for its outdoor concerts and vibrant atmosphere.
Open daily 9am-3am. Le Méridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, Dubai Marina, barastibeach.com (04 318 1313).
Best Things to Do in Dubai: Off the Beaten Track – Outdoors and More
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Discover a different side of Dubai at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, home to stunning flamingos and a variety of bird species.
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, Ras Al Khor, rasalkhorwildlife.ae (800900).
Tailoring in Satwa
Get bespoke clothing made in Satwa, where numerous tailors can create custom outfits just for you.
Satwa.
Adventure in Hatta
Explore the mountainous region of Hatta, where you can kayak, hike, or ride horses amidst stunning landscapes.
Hatta Wadi Hub, Hatta, visithatta.com (800 637227).
Learn to Dive at Al Boom
Join PADI dive training at Al Boom in Jumeirah and prepare to explore the underwater world safely.
Prices vary. Open Mon-Fri 9am-8pm, Sat-Sun 9am-6pm. Al Boom Dubai, Al Wasl Road, Jumeirah 1, alboomdiving.com (04 3422993).
Romantic Stroll at Dubai Love Lakes
Enjoy a romantic walk around the heart-shaped Dubai Love Lakes, adorned with trees spelling “love”.
Al Qudra.
Hiking at Wadi Helo
Put on your hiking boots and explore the scenic trails at Wadi Helo, just outside of Dubai.
Sharjah.
Horse Riding in the Desert
Experience the thrill of horse riding across the beautiful desert terrain, with options for all skill levels.
Al Jiyad Stables, daily 6am-8.30pm. Qudra.
Sandboarding on the Dunes
Try sandboarding on the red dunes for an adrenaline rush and a unique desert experience.
Paddle a Kayak on the Palm
Discover the stunning views of Palm Jumeirah while kayaking in the calm waters.
