Dubai isn’t the usual desert city. Flanked by the Persian Gulf on one side and an expanse of arid land on another, Dubai made a niche for itself with its outstanding vision and grit to become one of the most futuristic global cities in the world. There are ample of ways one can spend their time in Dubai and there is something for every age group and genre of visitors. The emirate assures their visitors that their time spent in Dubai will be one filled with memorable and exciting moments. Here are 30 things you can look forward to enjoying in Dubai on a vacation.

1.Click a Selfie with Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world resides in Dubai. Burj Khalifa is the iconic landmark of New Dubai and is one of the most fascinating attraction to visit in Dubai. An insta-worthy photograph with the grandly illuminated Burj Khalifa as a backdrop and the scenic aerial panorama of Dubai city from its observatory deck are two absolute must-do activities for anyone visiting Dubai.

2.Watch the mesmerizing spectacle of Dubai Fountain

Another grand spectacle not to be missed is the scintillating performance by the world’s biggest dancing fountains – Dubai Fountain. Set right next to Burj Khalifa, right on the Burj Lake,  watch thousands of water jets shoot up and sway synchronized to dazzling lights and music to put forth a brilliantly choreographed sound, water, and light spectacle.

3.Go shopping at Dubai Mall

With over 1000 retail outlets and designer brands located within Dubai Mall, this shopping arena is a paradise for all shopaholics. Right from luxury brands, apparel to electronic items and collectibles, you can shop for anything you wish for. That’s not all; the experience in Dubai Mall goes beyond shopping as it offers a complete family recreational centre. The Dubai Mall is also home to a variety of dining venues and entertainment zones such as cineplexes, an aquarium, ice rink, and kid’s play zones.

4.Wander around Dubai Souks
Take some time out and stroll through the winding alleys of Dubai Souks located on either shore of Dubai Creek. The hues and aromas of the ambiance will take you back to the era when traditional trading and bazaars where the way of life in Dubai. Enjoy the sights of bustling shops lined up along the streets selling merchandise such as gold, spices, hand-woven traditional carpets, and aromatic perfumes. A visit to the Dubai Souks is also a great way to mingle with locals and enjoy some budget shopping if you know a bit of haggling. 

5.Enjoy a Dubai Dhow Cruise with dinner experience at Dubai Marina
The latest, hot and happening spot in Dubai is the Dubai Marina. It is a brand new zone that exudes the finest version of sleek sophistication and luxury in Dubai. A Dhow Cruise with dinner experience in Dubai Marina is the ideal way to enjoy the staggering modern architectural marvels, chic harbour front and illuminated spectacle of New Dubai city skyline while enjoying the cool breezy ambiance accentuated with soulful Arabian melodies and live entertainment and relishing some amazing assortment of delectable cuisines.

6.Enjoy an abra ride on Dubai Creek

Take a look back to Dubai’s olden days with a short ferry ride from once shore of Dubai Creek to another. Dubai’s old-world charm is highlighted on either shore of Dubai Creek and an abra ride lets you soak up in the ambiance and enjoy the reminiscence of Dubai’s bygone era of modest lifestyle.

7.Visit Dubai Frame
Head to Zabeel Park and you will be welcomed by a giant frame-like structure that happens to be the biggest frame in the world. The Dubai Frame is where past, present, and future of the emirate is glorified and presented in a unique way to the visitors. A recent addition to Dubai’s feats of extraordinary landmarks, Dubai Frame stands 150 metres tall and offers visitors an unobstructed, beautiful panorama of Old and New Dubai from its observatory bridge.

8.Spend a fun-filled day at Aquaventure Water Park
An ideal way to beat the desert heat and enjoy some adrenaline rushing adventure, Aquaventure waterpark is Dubai’s best option for a day out with family and friends. Boasted as the best and largest waterpark in the Middle East, Aquaventure waterpark is home to an amazing collection of rides, some of which are not for the faint-hearted. It is a world of excitement where adventure lovers can have a thrilling day and those who want to relax and dip in the water can have their share of fun.

9.Catch a stunning show at La Perle by Dragone
Witness a stellar performance created by the finest acrobats and dancers that set the stage of fire with their amazing talents. Together with brilliant choreography combined with elements of water, La Perle by Dragone brings together an incredible performance that you will remember for a long time. This one-of-a-kind show is brilliantly choreographed by the renowned art director Franco Dragone who has captivated the world with its award-winning performances.

10.Visit the Dubai Miracle Garden
If you are visiting Dubai during the winter months of Dubai, then don’t forget to stopover at the Dubai Miracle Garden. One of Dubai’s most remarkable feat and a signature attraction of the emirate, Dubai Miracle Garden is boasted as the world’s largest natural flower garden. This vibrant oasis set right amid the desert city offers a refreshing outdoor setting for locals and visitors to enjoy some time amid aromatic floral installations and dioramas. It is one of the most astounding attractions you will come across in Dubai on your holiday.

11.Leave behind reality at VR Park Dubai
The world’s largest indoor virtual park catapults you into an uber futuristic realm where you can play simulated games and challenge yourself in virtually augmented thriller games. In all, 18 incredible experiences make this a haven for gamers and thrill-seekers.

12.Go skiing at Ski Dubai
The perfect way to chill in Dubai is by spending a day at Ski Dubai. Located within the Mall of The Emirates, this artificially created wintry wonderland offers mountain slopes of varying difficulty for ski lovers and snow-filled park for those who simply want to enjoy a chilly day in the midst of Dubai city. A great place for kids and grownups to have some fun time together, Ski Dubai is one of the most popular attractions to visit for family holidaymakers.

13.Escape the city on a Hatta Mountain Excursion
Dubai’s delightful experiences are not limited to its city sights. Venture beyond and you get to enjoy a fantastic day amid the beauty of Hatta Mountains. Located near the foothills of the Hajar Mountains, the Hatta Mountain excursion is a wonderful way to experience the wilderness of Dubai and also enjoy some adventure sports such as kayaking and mountain biking.

14.Have an Adventurous day with a Dubai Desert Safari tour
There is no way one should miss a visit to the Arabian Desert. A Dubai tour is deemed incomplete if you had not experienced the Desert Safari Tour on your Dubai Trip. Zoom off into the serene desert and enjoy some thrilling desert sports such as quad biking, camel riding, sandboarding, and dune bashing. Extend your time in the desert and unwind with a beautiful desert sunset views and an evening filled with Arabian folklore and dinner.

15.Have a fun day with kids at LEGOLAND Dubai
The first-ever LEGO-themed amusement park in the Middle East has chosen its abode in Dubai. Located in Dubai Parks and Resorts, LEGOLAND Dubai offers a variety of thrills and adventure activities that the whole family along with kids can enjoy and have a great time together. This is one theme park in Dubai that focuses on kids under 12 years and toddlers where they can have their share of fun and thrills.

16.Go snorkeling and scuba diving at Lost Chambers Aquarium
The Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis the Palm is not merely an aquarium. It is an underwater realm waiting to be explored. Adventure lovers can opt for a snorkeling session which lasts about 20 minutes inside a Lagoon teeming with a colourful variety of marine life. You can also go on scuba diving expeditions and swim with sea creatures with the guidance of certified scuba divers.

17.Enjoy a fascinating performance at Dubai Opera
Dubai has a new venue to celebrate the performing arts – The Dubai Opera. Catch world-renowned plays and concerts live at Dubai Opera which has a seating capacity of around 2000 guests and can transform into a theatre, concert hall and a banquet offering a spacious arena for wonderful performances and events. It is one of the most happening spots in Dubai with a calendar filled with interesting events throughout the year.

18.Gear up for Sky Diving Experience at Palm Dubai
Calling all adrenaline junkies to Dubai. If Sky Diving is your ultimate adrenaline rush, then head to Palm Dubai which happens to be the ultimate sky diving zone in the Middle East. Leap out of the plane and take in the scenic panoramas of Palm Dubai’s bird’s eye view as you soaring in the sky. The whole exhilarating adventure has to be experienced first-hand and guarantees the ultimate extreme adventure memory for all those who dare to try it out.

19.Enjoy an afternoon Hi-Tea at Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
Dubai is home to the only seven-star hotel in the world – the luxurious Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. If you are looking for a slice of luxury treat on your Dubai holiday, then go forth and splurge a bit on an Afternoon Hi-Tea experience at the Burj Al Arab’s Sky View Bar. It is an ideal way to explore the interiors of the hotel, sample some delicious treats, enjoy the scenic view of the city and sea as well as experience the high-level hospitality and service of this world-renowned hotel.

20.Step back in Dubai’s past at Al Bastakia Quarters
Before Dubai became a global metropolitan, it was a small desert village settlement. Though today it exudes glitz and sophistication in its ambiance, cocooned within the city is its deep-rooted past heritage and traditions. Head to the Al Bastakiya Quarters where Dubai has still preserved a reminiscence of its modest and humble beginnings and is proud to share it with its visitors. This old neighbourhood of Dubai takes you into the Bedouin era of Dubai before its desert landscapes got densely shrouded with soaring skyscrapers and architectural wonders that you get to marvel now.

21.Let kids have their share of fun at KidZania Dubai
Take your kids to KidZania in Dubai Mall where they can don the hat of a grownup for a day and have fun role-playing as bank managers, doctors, pilots, cashiers and so on. Watch them live their dream role for a day amid real-life situations while having fun and learning in the process.

22.Spend mild mornings on a hot air ballooning experience
The Arabian deserts are an easy escape for locals and visitors from the urbane life. Enjoy the serenity of the golden sand dunes on an early morning hot air ballooning tour to feel at peace in the scenic serene views of the Arabian Desert bathed in the mellow hues of morning sun rays.

23.Relish a scrumptious dinner on rooftop restaurants
One of the best ways to have a pleasant time amid spectacular city views of Dubai is while dining on rooftop dining venues of Dubai. The emirate has a classy assortment of rooftop dining venues and lounges that offers a stylish setting overlooking breathtaking views of Dubai while offering an outstanding assortment of international and traditional epicurean delights.

24.Have fun with friends and family at IMG Worlds of Adventure
Dubai’s mega indoor theme park is an apt attraction for family and friends to spend a whole day or two together in fun and adventure thrills. There are five zones based on MARVEL and Cartoon Network themed rides, shows and recreational areas for all age groups to have fun and have a great time.

25.Meet the Dolphins at Dubai Dolphinarium
Get up close and personal with these gentle marine mammals as they cuddle, swim and dive for you. The Dubai Dolphinarium also has exclusive shows featuring dolphins, seals and exotic birds showcasing their talent. Another great attraction which kids would love and remember for a long time about their Dubai holiday and an ideal place for kids to have the opportunity to encounter dolphins and interact with them.

26.Defy gravity at IFly Dubai
Want to go sky diving but don’t have the nerves for it? No worries! In Dubai, you can enjoy a simulated sky diving experience at IFLY Dubai. This indoor attraction lets you levitate above the ground in a vertical wind tunnel that lets you get the same experience of sky diving except you don’t have to leap out of an airplane.

27.Try Surfing at Laguna Water Park
Laguna Water Park at La Mer in Dubai is the emirate’s latest addition to its fascinating collection of water parks. What makes it stand apart from the other water parks is the WaveOz 180 FloRider where you can try your skills in surfing and taming big waves. A place where adventurers can have a thrilling splashy time and families and friends can soak, dip and relax in soothing water.

28.See the world at the Global Village Dubai
The region’s first multicultural hub and the world’s largest cultural park – Global Village in Dubai lets you experience culture, entertainment, and cuisine of over 90 countries. Divided into different pavilions, Global Village represents a complete culturally enriched family destination for locals and visitors to shop, dine and enjoy a great time amid a range of cultural ambiances of various countries.

29.Witness an illuminating spectacle at Dubai Garden Glow
Step into a world of illuminated wonders at Dubai Garden Glow. Watch the creativity and imagination of artists take centre stage as they showcase their innovation lit with millions of bright lights. Dubai Garden Glow is one of the most unique attractions to visit in Dubai that appreciates and encourages exquisite innovations and fine art.

30.Sample Middle Eastern cuisine at Khan Murjan Souk
Last but not least, do sample some amazing assortment of Middle Eastern cuisine while you are in Dubai. Head to Khan Murjan Souk at WAFI Mall which is a lavish courtyard decked in Egyptian, Syrian, Turkish and Moroccan architecture and decor. The Khan Murjan restaurant serves guests with authentic lip-smacking Arabian cuisine where you can sample some delicious signature dishes such as Arabian shawarma, grilled kebab, Iranian biriyanis, Baklawas and hot Turkish coffee and Moroccan tea.