In Dubai, you can spend your morning lounging on the beach, hit the slopes for some skiing, and sip a cocktail atop a skyscraper—all in one day. “Dubai has this incredible magnetic pull,” says Nada Badran, a licensed tour guide who’s called the city home for over 30 years. “There’s this electric energy in the air, and every single day, the city serves up new chances to chase creative passions.” The range of activities is wild—from haggling in Old Dubai’s souks to adrenaline-pumping adventures like kitesurfing or desert explorations.
Dubai often gets misunderstood, says Isabella Craddock, founder and editor of Near+Far, a magazine for modern Middle East travelers. “The first myth is that it’s all flashy, fake, and shallow—which couldn’t be more wrong,” she tells Travel + Leisure. Another misconception? That it’s unsafe. But Dean Hayter, travel product manager at Scenset, says, “I’ve never felt safer in any city than I do living in Dubai.”
Ready to plan your trip? Here’s a local-approved list of the best things to do in Dubai.
Top 5 Can’t Miss
- Dine among the clouds with epic city views at the Burj Khalifa.
- Wander Old Dubai’s vibrant markets and sip on steaming chai.
- Hop on a traditional wooden abra for a sunset cruise along Dubai Creek.
- Stargaze and spot nocturnal wildlife in the desert.
- Unwind on the beach with sand volleyball or kitesurfing.
01
Visit the world’s tallest building
.
The Burj Khalifa towers over Dubai’s skyline, and heading up is a must. Pick from indoor or outdoor observation decks—like The Lounge on floors 152–154, where you can snack and sip drinks 1,900 feet up. For something fancier, book a table at At.mosphere on the 122nd floor—perfect for celebrating big moments.
02
Get lost in Old Dubai’s streets.
“I’m happiest wandering Old Dubai’s alleys and souks, buzzing with life,” says Badran. “The maze-like markets are packed with vendors calling out ‘Shakira!’ or ‘professor!’—their go-to tactics to lure customers. Pop into tiny shops where stools and chai are always ready, and every deal involves some lively haggling. The air? A mix of spice stalls, perfume, and the clatter of carts.”
After shopping, check out Al Fahidi Fort (Dubai’s oldest building, now home to the Dubai Museum) or sip Arabic coffee at the Coffee Museum.
03
Cruise Dubai Creek.
Once a key trade route, Dubai Creek is now a stunning way to see the city. “Go before sunset, hire an abra, and drift as the sky turns pink and the call to prayer echoes—it’s pure magic,” says Hayter. You’ll glide past Old Dubai and landmarks like the Deira Twin Towers, all lit up at night.
04
Go stargazing in the desert.
Book a night safari with Platinum Heritage to escape the city lights. Ride in a vintage Land Cruiser, then walk with a guide spotting desert creatures. After a three-course dinner, peer through telescopes at distant galaxies and hear how Bedouins used stars for navigation. “The sky is so dark, the stars look unreal,” says Hayter. “With an astronomer guiding you, it’s next-level.”
05
Relax at a Dubai beach.
“Dubai has amazing, uncrowded public beaches where you can soak up the sun for free,” says Craddock. Kite Beach is a top pick—clean showers, food stalls, and gear rentals for kitesurfing or paddleboarding. You can even bike along the boardwalk.
06
Dive into local coffee culture.
Dubai’s café scene is buzzing—from traditional Turkish coffee to quirky cereal lattes. “There are so many artsy, design-forward spots,” says Craddock. “Some have lush gardens, others moody, themed interiors.” Her favorites? The Grey, Nightjar Coffee, and Tom&Serg.
07
Eat your way through Dubai.
Dubai’s dining scene is a dream for foodies. Try Amazonico (a sensory jungle journey), Seva Table (chill plant-based eats in a wellness hub), or Jun’s (fusion dishes with Burj Khalifa views). Chef Kelvin Cheung says, “Dubai’s food scene is fearless—top-quality flavors everywhere, pushing boundaries like nowhere else.”
08
Play a round of golf.
Golf in the desert? Absolutely. The Majlis Course at Emirates Golf Club is a standout. Pro tip: Check if your credit card offers free rounds. Best time to play? November–March, when the weather’s cooler.
09
Pamper yourself at a luxe hotel.
Dubai’s hotels are next-level. “Many sell day passes for pools, beaches, and spas,” says Craddock. Apps like Privilee and Viya give access to multiple spots—perfect for trying new places daily.
10
Explore Alserkal Avenue.
This artsy warehouse district is “an oasis of galleries, cafes, and quirky shops,” says Badran. Wander freely, grab a nitro cold brew at Nightjar Coffee, or catch an indie film at Cinema Akil.
11
Go wild in the desert.
Ride 4x4s, dune buggies, or quad bikes with Expert Rangers. For the full experience, book a package with sandboarding, camel rides, and a desert dinner under the stars.
12
See Dubai from the sky.
Thrill-seekers, try Skydive Dubai—a 13,000-foot plunge over Palm Jumeirah. Prefer keeping your feet inside the plane? A gyrocopter tour offers stunning aerial views.
13
Try a traditional hammam.
This steam-and-scrub ritual leaves you glowing. The Guerlain Spa at One&Only The Palm even offers couples’ treatments.
14
Escape to Hatta.
Nestled in the Hajar Mountains, Hatta is perfect for hiking, kayaking, or biking. Don’t miss the heritage village or Hatta Wadi Hub for axe-throwing and zip-lining.
15
Scuba dive in a pool.
Deep Dive Dubai isn’t just a pool—it’s the world’s deepest (197 feet!), designed like a sunken city. Take a scuba course or explore if you’re certified. Kids as young as six can join in too.