Unique things to do in Dubai that every traveler should know
May this list of cool things in Dubai with travel tips help you guide your travel
Dubai is a very diverse and beautiful city. It’s one of the countries I visited that surprised me the most because I discovered plenty of unique things to do in Dubai for everyone of all ages. One of the amazing things about Dubai is that it’s a travel destination that caters to all types of travelers.
Discover unique experiences in Dubai to have the best time!
In this post, I will share my favorite and memorable experiences while traveling to Dubai for one week to help you plan your trip. In addition, I will also share the spontaneous and unexpected places I visited that were NOT even on my initial planned itinerary. However, since the locals I met while traveling recommended those places as fun activities in Dubai for adults, I included them on the list.
Furthermore, I will also reveal Dubai travel tips based on my Dubai travel experiences that will help you save money and time and travel smart. Lastly, I will share some of the best photo spots in Dubai that I discovered by accident.
This post is all about the unique things to do in Dubai that every traveler should experience and add to their itinerary!
Unique Things To Do In Dubai
1. Burj Khalifa – explore The Top and see the city skyline
One of the unique things to do in Dubai is visiting the tallest building in the world!
What should you not miss when visiting Dubai?
Going to the top of the world’s tallest building in the world – Burj Khalifa
Seeing its modern architecture design from the outside is impressive, but you will be more amazed exploring it inside while experiencing one of the fastest elevators and seeing the city skyline from the top. It would feel like you’ve never been to Dubai if you haven’t been to Burj Khalifa.
Book your experience:
When is the best time to visit Burj Khalifa?
It is best to explore the top of Burj Khalifa at night. If you want to get the best views, definitely visit from 4:00 pm – 10:00 pm. You will both get to see the day and night views from the top and snap a photo. And the best part is you will also get to watch the beautiful sunset and watch the beautiful buildings light up at night.
The only downside about this time is that it tends to be the most popular so it is also the busiest time. So, expect to see many tourists. However, to avoid this and secure a good photo spot or sunset viewing, I highly recommend booking your tickets in advance online or at the Dubai Mall ticket counter and make sure you arrive at least 30 minutes early.
Is there a time limit how long you can stay in Burj Khalifa?
Unlike the Taj Mahal in India, there is no time limit. You can stay as long you want without any extra fees. So, you can take your time enjoying the views and taking photos inside.
Book in advance: Visit Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, for a VIP experienceWhat do I need to know before going to Burj Khalifa?
There are different types of access and ticket you can purchase. So, depending on the ticket you plan to buy, know what floors you have access and could explore. When I visited the top of Burj Khalifa, I chose the SKY VIP PASS with free and unlimited desserts and tea and/or coffee. Our tour guide took us all the way up to the 148th floor first. I didn’t know we also have access to levels 124 and 125 and we could just go on our own whenever.
You can watch the dancing fountains from the top. The fountain show starts at 6pm daily and repeats every 30 minutes. It’s always nice to get a different view and angle of the beautiful dancing fountains. The display really looks fascinating at night.
If you want to get the best views and capture the best photo spots with high quality, look for a professional photographer on each floor. I was lucky enough to encounter photographers who were nice and not busy that they took their time taking my photos at best spots and offered to take more shots until I like the pictures.
2. Ride the Palm monorail to see the Man Made Island – Palm Jumeirah
Want to explore the Palm Jumeirah through the scenic route?
Taking the monorail is one of the unique things to do in Dubai that you have to see! The view of the man-made islands and pristine atmosphere are worth experiencing!
It’s a quick and convenient way to travel between the Palm Gateway Statation in Al Sufouh all the way to the Atlantis Aquaventure Stations.Enjoy seeing man-made islands with beautiful houses, hotels, and beaches as you navigate through across the Palm Jumeirah. I recommend when you ride, stand in the front to see the best view of Palm Jumeirah.
How long is the Palm monorail?
It’s about 9-minute ride
Where does the Palm monorail start?
Palm Gateway. The Palm Monorail has 5 stations: Gateway, Al Ittihad Park, Nakheel Mall, The Pointe, Atlantis. One way ticket starts from 5 AED and Day Pass With Unlimited Rides For AED 35. Tickets could be purchased online or at any monorail stations.
Book your experience:
3. Jet Ski Tour – experience water adventure while sightseeing the city along the coastline of Dubai
Cruising Dubai on a jet ski is an exhilarating experience and one of the unique things to do in Dubai if you want to see the modern city by water!
Are you into water sports and activities? Then, go on a Jet Ski tour.
Book your experience:
Do you want a good “photo opportunity” of the modern city buildings? Then, definitely go jet skiing while in Dubai. If you want to see and capture the best views of the city from a different angle by the water, this water activity is a must- experience in Dubai that you should not miss and should add on your trip itinerary.
It was actually my first-time jet skiing when I went to Dubai. It was really fun and exciting. No need to worry, it’s safe even for a first timer like me. So, I encourage everyone to try it!
For me, it’s the best way to see and appreciate the beautiful architectures of the city while also enjoying the thrill of riding along the coastline of Dubai. Make sure you reserve and book in advance.
When is the best time to go jet ski?
The best time to go get ski is in the morning because the water is flat so it’s safer and smoother to ride according to my instructor. There’s also less tourists in the morning, so if you want a solo nice picture and actually have more time to take photos without waiting in line, morning is definitely better. It’s also less hot and sunny.
4. Visit Dubai Mall
One of the unique things to do in Dubai, specifically at the Dubai Mall, is explore various entertainment, activities, dining, and shopping options!
Tip: Book and stay at a hotel with free shuttle to Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is BIG, it’s one of the largest malls in the world so you will never run out of things to do – one day is not enough to explore. When I went to Dubai, I spent 2 days of my vacation exploring the Dubai Mall. I feel that’s still not enough time – as there are a lot of things to do such as shopping, eating, fun activities, and entertainment. Not many people know— even I didn’t know until I visited.
I also discovered that there are a lot of perfect photo opportunities just by going to the mall — such as the Dubai fountain, Burj Khalifa – tallest building, I love Dubai sign, and Dubai aquarium and underwater. There’s even a place you can do an Arabian princess/prince photoshoot and get henna all located inside the mall. I have done all of these while I was there besides shopping and eating, of course.
Best Restaurant at Dubai Mall
Black Tap – I really enjoyed their delicious mouth watering quality burgers and shakes!
What’s the best restaurant with the best view at the Dubai Mall?
I will reveal just for you – Arwani restaurant – I found this restaurant with the best view by accident and I highly recommend it !
Where to eat Dubai Mall
The best restaurant with the best view to see the night view of fountain show while also enjoying the night view of Burj Khalifa tallest building is at Arwani restaurant that serves quality middle eastern food.
Here’s a picture of me having dinner at the restaurant with such spectacular night view in my background… You’re welcome friend! Make sure you reserve a seat “outside” and enjoy the view!
Travel Tips in Dubai
- Book a hotel with free transportation that takes you to the Dubai mall or Emirates mall for FREE to save you money. I got a free shuttle to Dubai Mall at this hotel.
- You will get a one free or included attraction pass with a purchased of Burj Khalifa – At The Top Ticket. Check your ticket and details prior/after booking. Make sure you plan and manage your time and know the opening and closing of these locations.
- Take a picture of the taxi you are taking and send it to a trusted loved one. Be careful of some taxi/transportation drivers at the Dubai Mall as they may pretend they do not know your hotel and/or that their GPS is broken and will take you to longer route. Even if it’s a famous hotel such as “Hilton”, which is the hotel I stayed at, there was a driver who didn’t know where it was and I had to tell him we passed by it as I searched/tracked the directions on my own GPS and paid close attention where he was taking me. He was obviously taking me to a longer route. So be VERY CAREFUL. There’s a number on the actual taxi where you can call, report and make a complaint. I only found out about this after leaving Dubai so taking a picture of the Taxi would be beneficial in this way too.
5. Watch the famous fountain show
Up-close day view of the fountain show
What should you not miss when visiting Dubai?
When you visit the Dubai mall, make sure to not miss watching the famous dancing fountain show. It’s similar to Las Vegas fountain show. Get fascinated seeing the dancing fountain during the day and watch the colorful changing colors at night along with a soothing background music. The show starts at 6pm to 11pm daily every 30 minutes. It’s located at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, so great photo opportunity there as well. The fountain show is on of the unique things to do in Dubai you have to see!
Is fountain show Free in Dubai?
The show is free. However, if you want to see the fountains from every angle, then a bridge boardwalk and boat ride would great options!
Travel Tip Dubai Fountain show
I highly recommend seeing the fountain both during the day and night. I really enjoyed my experiences as I was seeing the fountain show up-close and from a far-away views. Watching something at different angle always gives me a different feeling and such a unique experience. Just like anything in life, looking at something at a different angle or view always gives a different vibe, perspective, and experience.
Book unique Dubai experience:
See the lights of Dubai Mall Fountain Show on a cruise
6. Big Bus Tour – explore Dubai from an open-top double-decker bus
I feel that BIGBUS DUBAI has always been a part of my travel itinerary wherever I travel. I always add BIGBUS TOURS in my itinerary because of convenience and I feel I get to really live in the moment while activating all my senses as I experience the culture and beauty of any country I am traveling to.
BIGBUS TOURS offers convenience and relaxed experience. I really love sight-seeing and exploring places from the open-top view while sitting down feeling the breeze of the wind as I feel my skin soaking in the Vitamin D from the sun while smelling Arabian spices as I listen to an audio recorded guided tour learning and discovering about Dubai’s history and architectures. I just love this feeling and experience. Maybe I have taken many BIGBUS TOURS as it’s my go-to-relaxed and cheaper way to see more places. Most especially, I take BIGBUS TOURS when I’m too tired or jet lagged to walk for a long period of time, but I want to travel and explore kind of feeling. So, if you want to see more, but spend less and WALK LESS like me (my preference when I’m tired), then booked a BigBUS TOUR, add it to your itinerary.
Taking a BIGBUS DUBAI is one of the most relaxed and unique things to do in Dubai you have to experience! See more of the city and discover more as you tour around old and modern sides of Dubai.
I would always prefer the open-top seat – best way to go city sight-seeing -regardless if it’s hot or raining.
Is Dubai Hop-On Hop-Off worth it?
Yes, it’s saves you money and allows you to see a lot of places by spending less.
Taking a BIGBUS DUBAI TOUR is one of my favorite things to do in any country because I get to SEE MORE, but SPEND LESS, and I FEEL LESS TIRED because I walked less as I usually do the sightseeing and guided audio tour twice round trip and stay seated on open-top double decker bus.
What is the best time to book a Dubai Hop-On Hop-Off tour?
October to April – I recommend booking in advance online or outside Dubai Mall (there are sellers in uniform who sell possibly cheaper than online and may give you better discounts)
Book your experience:
BIGBUS DUBAI
7. Ride an Abra water taxi along the Dubai Creek
Want to spend less than 1 US dollar, but see scenic views of Old Dubai?
You must ride the Dubai’s traditional and oldest mode of water transport – Abra water taxi
How much is a ticket for the abra ride?
It only costs for about 1 dirham per trip, which is just USD 27 cents. This was probably the most inexpensive boat ride I’ve ever been on. Make sure you seat at the very corner to see the best views while exploring Old Dubai.
This is definitely the cheapest activity for tourists and must do while in Dubai.
Book your experience:
Find similar Abra experience, but longer cruise time and costs more:
8. Miracle Garden – enjoy various kinds of beautiful flowers and designs
Going to Dubai Miracle Garden feels like being in a fairytale flower wonderland.
Seeing variety kinds of flowers and smelling the fresh flowers feel so wonderful and refreshing. It’s one of the unique things to do in Dubai for sure! The flowers and plants are beautifully designed and curbed into unique such lovely structures and delightful patterns, which I find so impressive.
Book your experience:
I discovered this place by accident as I just heard it from the hotel staff and travelers I met at the Arabian night dinner that I need to visit the garden as they described it to me as the Disneyland of Dubai. So my expectation was high because I have been to both Disneyland and Disneyworld. However, when I went there, it’s not that big and there were no rides. I finally understood why they thought of it that way, though, when I saw the castles and animals’ designs everywhere.
I still really enjoyed the beautiful breathtaking landscape despite being disappointed that it’s not like the Disneyland I was imaginating. It’s definitely a well-designed attraction with fresh natural flowers and plants. There are a lot of photo opportunities and perfect photography / Instagram spots here for those who travel for pictures. I highly recommend for picture purposes.
How long do people spend at Miracle Garden Dubai?
3 hours is more than enough to enjoy and take pictures at Miracle Garden
What is the best time to visit Miracle Garden Dubai?
October to April
9. Global Village -experience various cultural entertainment, international food, exhibitions and shopping
Want to feel like you’ve traveled around the world but it’s all in just one place? This place if for you!
Experiencing the atmosphere and scenery in Global village is one of the unique things to do in Dubai!
Global Village features various kinds of countries’ famous architectures, culture, food, and entertainment. You can shop and eat at each country pavilions representing their own cuisines and unique products.
Book your experience:
I really enjoy my time at Global Village because it’s full of cultural attractions, thrilling shows, and lively exhibitions that everyone can enjoy. There’s even a fun fair with rides and games for family and kids to enjoy.
Is Global Village Dubai worth visiting?
Yes, absolutely – it’s one of my favorite places I visited in Dubai! Global Village is a unique attraction that has all the fun in one place. I feel like I’m traveling to multiple countries all at once in just one place as I journey my way through each country’s pavilion exploring various international exhibitions – enjoying listening to live cultural entertainment in the background and seeing world’s famous architectures while eating international authentic cuisines. Global Village Dubai is so worth visiting!
How long should you spend in Global Village?
5 hours should be enough time to explore, eat, shop and enjoy the shows
10. Dubai Desert Safari and Arabian Night shows and dinner
Desert safari tour in Dubai must be on your itinerary if you want to experience excitement as you thrill your way through the bumpy ride around the desert, feel the soft powdered brown sand in your hands, watch the beautiful sunset going down while admiring the desert view from afar and enjoying BBQ dinner with live belly dancing, tanoura and fire shows entertainment.
Book your experience:
Experiencing Dubai Desert Safari is one of the unique things to do in Dubai!
During the tour, the driver will make a stop to get a picture with a talking falcon (of course they only tell you there’s a fee after you take the picture, so you have no choice but to pay for their asking price- just be aware of this)
After the safari tour, you will go to an Arabian Camp where you have options of riding the camels, ATV/quads, sandboarding, getting henna tattoos and renting shisha. If you do not want to do any of these, while waiting for the dinner BBQ and shows to start, you can just watch the sunset and take pictures. Depending on which camp you end up, there’s a beautiful decorated swing uphill with the sunset in the background (our camp has this for tourists to enjoy – so great photo opportunity)
As soon as the sun goes down, drinks and some snacks or appetizers will be served, followed by the BBQ dinner buffet, which consists of both vegetable and non vegetable. Enjoy your dinner while watching the live entertainment.
Is desert safari in Dubai worth it?
Yes if you never tried it before it might be worth-it. However, if it’s your second time, it may not be as fun as you’d expect – at least for me. The first time I tried desert safari was in Doha, Qatar. I honestly enjoyed that more as it’s my first time experience.
In addition, keep in mind that there are many different camps and desert safari with Arabian night dinner and shows’ tours available from multiple tour companies offering the same exact itinerary and experiences. I learned this from our driver and other travelers that even if we booked the same tour at the same time and date and at same site, but we ended up having different tour companies and ended up at totally separate camp. I recommend reading reviews before you book.
11.Visit the Dubai Frame – see the Old Dubai and New Dubai
Admire the remarkable view of “old” Dubai and “new” Dubai from the top by visiting the Dubai Frame.
Want to see the biggest frame in the world?
Exploring this unique frame architecture is one of the unique things to do in Dubai that you have to photograph!
Book your experience:
- Dubai: Frame Tickets, Creek, Souks & Blue Mosque Guided Tour
- Dubai: Entry Ticket to the Dubai Frame with Deck Access
What is special about Dubai Frame?
The building is structured in such a unique position that allows you to see the growing skyscrapers of new Dubai while also appreciating where it all started on the other side, which is the Old Dubai. Did you know it’s the largest picture frame in the world? So, don’t forget to take a photo outside to capture the iconic frame in the background. It’s one of Dubai’s newest symbolic landmarks that was completed in 2018.
The Dubai Frame is located in the heart of Dubai at Gate 4, Zabeel Park. It’s open from 9 am – 9 pm.
I enjoyed admiring this unique landmark from afar whenever we drive by it as it truly reflects Dubai’s modern architecture!
12. Enjoy the Jumeirah Public Beach
Love the beach? You may want to consider going to Jumeirah Public Beach. It’s FREE.
Only want to visit for a photo stop? Consider booking a Dubai City Tour
Exploring Jumeirah Beach is one of the unique things to do in Dubai that you cannot miss because you’ll get to see the famous Burj Al Arab!
Spend time alone or spend time with your partner or spend time with your family and relax at the beach! The beach is clean considering it’s a public beach. It’s really nice experiencing walking along the beach and witnessing locals running/jogging and tourists paddling, parasailing, swimming, and taking pictures. Unfortunately, when I visited there’s a building being built so I didn’t really get to enjoy and capture a good view of the Burj Al Arab.
Best time to visit the beach is at sunset or nighttime as it can get really hot during the day.
Make sure to stay hydrated and put on sunscreen if you plan to go during the day.
13. Explore Old Dubai – historical landmarks and Dubai Souqs
Experience Old Dubai by visiting and sightseeing heritage houses and museums and shop at Dubai Souqs and explore the bazaars.
Visiting Old Dubai is one of the unique things to do in Dubai that you have to see to learn and appreciate more of the history and development of Dubai!
Book your experience:
One of the historical landmark in Old Dubai, Wall of Old Dubai – the museum was still closed when I visited. However, just sightseeing around Old Dubai allowed me to learn and admire a bit of Dubai’s history, original heritage, old buildings and made me witness and appreciate the difference between the old Dubai and modern Dubai.
Want to feel and taste the past and olden days of Dubai?
Go to Dubai souqs in Old Dubai, visit historical buildings and shop around the souqs!
Dubai souq consists of various Arab bazaars or marketplaces. Here’s the list of different kinds of souqs you can visit:
- Grand Souq- Deira
- Gold Souq- Deira
- Herbs Souq
- Mattress Souq
- Perfume Souq
- Textile Souq
- Utensils Souq
Here’s that map I took a picture while traveling, so you can plan your trip before going there.
Travel tip Dubai Souq
Do it all in one day! Ride the abra water Taxi at Dubai Creek, visit historical landmarks/museums then enjoy Dubai Souqs
I highly recommend buying souvenirs at Dubai Souq as it’s CHEAPER compare to buying at the Dubai Mall. And don’t forget to bargain and ask for lesser price!
Here are the SOUQ instructions you must know before visiting the Dubai Souq – contact information for consumer complaint is also included in case you may need it
~Travel Dubai experiences and recommendations on some of the things you must do while in Dubai ~
Summary / Key Take Aways
What are the unique things to do in Dubai?
- Visit Burj Khalifa (tallest building in the world)
- Ride the Palm monorail to see the man island Palm Jumeirah
- Jet skiing along the coastline of Dubai
- Visit Dubai Mall- eat middle eastern food, shop and entertainment —> get here by BIGBUS DUBAI
- Watch the famous dancing fountain show (free) OR book Lake Ride Cruise
- Explore the city from open-top double decker BIG BUS TOURS
- Ride the water taxi along the Dubai Creek (costs USD 27 cents)
- Enjoy the various kinds of beautiful flowers and designs at Miracle Garden
- Experience various cultural entertainment, international food, exhibitions and shopping at the Global Village
- Experience the thrill of Dubai Desert safari and enjoy Arabian night shows and BBQ dinner buffet
- Visit the world’s largest frame – Dubai Frame and admire the view of old Dubai and new Dubai from the top
- Enjoy the Jumeirah Public Beach (free access) – quick visit/stop during Dubai City Tour | Water activities: paddling, swimming, parasailing
- Explore Old Dubai – the historical landmarks and Dubai Souqs
What should you not miss when visiting Dubai?
Visit and photo stops at Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Global village, Miracle Garden, Dubai fountain show, Dubai dessert, Old Dubai
These are unique things to do in Dubai that you cannot miss when traveling to Dubai!
What is the coolest thing in Dubai?
Best modern architectures and man-made islands
What are the top attractions to visit in Dubai?
Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Fountain Show, Global Village
What are some of the things you need to know before you plan your trip to Dubai?
- Reserve/book in advance and know the opening and closing time of each places you plan to visit
- Best months to visit according to locals = October- April
- Be careful when taking a taxi. Take a picture of the taxi before riding and send it to a trusted loved one. Have your own GPS accessible and make sure you know where your hotel/place is.
- Be aware and respect Dubai’s custom and courtesies such as dressing modestly, no drinking in public, no public display of affection, and no smoking, drinking, eating in public during Ramadan (tradition of strict fasting for Muslims)
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