Dubai, a city of superlatives, is renowned for its blend of modern marvels and rich cultural heritage. Whether you're a thrill-seeker, history buff, shopaholic, or simply looking for something new, Dubai offers a wide range of exciting activities. From the towering Burj Khalifa to the serene desert landscapes, the city is a playground for every type of traveler. With GetYourGuide, you can easily discover and book these incredible experiences, ensuring that you make the most of your time in this dazzling city. In this blog, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Dubai, all available through GetYourGuide.
No trip to Dubai is complete without experiencing the world’s tallest building—Burj Khalifa. Soaring to 828 meters, the Burj Khalifa offers spectacular views of the city, the desert, and the Arabian Gulf. The observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors provide a breathtaking panoramic view, especially at sunset when the city lights up.
Through GetYourGuide, you can skip the lines and book a ticket to the observation deck in advance, ensuring you get the best experience possible. You can even combine your visit with a guided tour of Downtown Dubai to learn more about the iconic landmarks surrounding the Burj Khalifa, including The Dubai Fountain, Dubai Mall, and the vibrant Souk Al Bahar.
One of the most exhilarating experiences you can have in Dubai is a Desert Safari. Just a short drive from the city, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the Arabian desert, where you can enjoy an action-packed adventure. Activities typically include dune bashing in a 4x4, camel rides, sandboarding, and even quad biking.
As the sun sets, you’ll be taken to a traditional Bedouin-style campsite, where you can enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner, watch traditional belly dancing performances, and get a henna tattoo. A desert safari is a must-do for any visitor looking to experience the raw beauty of the desert. GetYourGuide offers a range of desert safari options, from morning excursions to luxury evening experiences, ensuring that you can find one that suits your schedule and interests.
Located inside The Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world. Home to over 33,000 marine animals, including sharks, rays, and giant groupers, this awe-inspiring attraction allows you to get up close with sea creatures in a way that’s both exciting and educational.
You can take a stroll through the 48-meter-long tunnel that runs through the aquarium, offering panoramic views of the marine life swimming above and around you. For a more adventurous experience, GetYourGuide offers a range of options, such as the Shark Dive, where you can swim alongside these incredible creatures, or the Glass-Bottom Boat Ride, for a unique view of the aquarium.
To explore the more traditional side of Dubai, take a relaxing cruise along the Dubai Creek. This saltwater creek divides the city into two main districts: Deira and Bur Dubai. A traditional wooden abra boat ride is an affordable and charming way to experience the city’s history.
Along the creek, you can see the stunning contrast of old Dubai with its spice markets, gold souks, and historic buildings, all while enjoying the scenic views. You can also combine the ride with a visit to the Dubai Museum or a trip to the Al Fahidi Historical District. Booking your Dubai Creek cruise through GetYourGuide allows you to easily explore the area at your own pace, with options to add guided tours for deeper insights into the city’s past.
For those who love shopping, The Dubai Mall is a must-visit destination. As the largest shopping mall in the world, it boasts over 1,200 retail stores, making it a retail paradise. Whether you’re looking for high-end brands, quirky boutiques, or unique souvenirs, The Dubai Mall has something for everyone.
In addition to shopping, the mall offers a host of other attractions, including an ice rink, the VR Park, and the Dubai Fountain. The fountain show, with its mesmerizing water jets synchronized to music, takes place every 30 minutes in the evenings and is one of Dubai’s top attractions. With GetYourGuide, you can book tickets to specific attractions within the mall, such as the At the Top experience at Burj Khalifa, or even enjoy a full-day tour that combines shopping with sightseeing.
If you’re looking to explore the stunning Palm Jumeirah, one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks, the best way to do so is by hopping aboard the Palm Jumeirah Monorail. The monorail runs from the base of the Palm all the way to the luxurious Atlantis The Palm resort.
The journey offers incredible views of the island’s luxury villas, resorts, and private beaches. You can also take in the picturesque views of the Dubai coastline and skyline. This is a great way to explore the Palm Jumeirah without the need for a car, and you can combine it with a visit to Aquaventure Waterpark or The Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis. GetYourGuide makes it easy to book a ticket in advance, so you don’t miss out on this fun and scenic experience.
For nature lovers, the Dubai Miracle Garden is a hidden gem. This 72,000-square-meter garden, located in the Dubailand district, is home to more than 50 million flowers, making it one of the most beautiful and Instagrammable places in Dubai. With intricate flower displays, themed gardens, and enormous flower sculptures, the garden is a visual delight.
The garden is open seasonally from November to April, and GetYourGuide offers tickets and tours that can take you through the stunning flower-filled pathways while providing insights into the garden’s design and history. This is a great activity for families, couples, or anyone who enjoys the beauty of nature.
A newer addition to Dubai’s list of attractions, the Dubai Frame is an architectural marvel that offers a unique perspective of the city. Standing at 150 meters tall, the frame offers panoramic views of both old and new Dubai. From the glass-floored observation deck, you can see the bustling city center, the historic districts, and the vast desert surrounding the city.
The Dubai Frame is a great place to visit for a mixture of modern design and history. GetYourGuide provides skip-the-line tickets, making it easy to visit this iconic attraction and enjoy its stunning views.
Dubai is a city full of wonders, offering an incredible mix of modern luxury, adventure, culture, and relaxation. With GetYourGuide, you can easily plan your trip and make the most of your time by booking tickets, tours, and experiences that match your interests. Whether you're looking to explore the city's rich heritage, indulge in thrilling adventures, or simply enjoy some world-class shopping, Dubai has something for everyone. Make your Dubai visit unforgettable by exploring these exciting things to do, all accessible with GetYourGuide.