15 things to do in Dubai 2024
Known as a city that combines modern architecture with traditional Arabic culture, Dubai offers visitors a wide array of attractions and activities. From futuristic skyscrapers to ancient souks, and adrenaline-pumping theme parks to serene desert escapes, Dubai has something for all types of travelers. If you’re planning a trip to Dubai in 2024, here are 15 things you can’t miss attractions and experiences:
- Burj Khalifa :
No trip to Dubai is complete without a visit to the towering Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building at 828 meters high. Ascend to the observation deck on the 124th floor for jaw-dropping 360-degree views over the Dubai skyline. If you’re feeling brave, you can even step out onto the outdoor terrace. The views are especially stunning at sunset when you can watch the city transition from day to night. Down below, you can see the Dubai Fountain shows happening around the glittering Burj Khalifa Lake. - Dubai Mall :
Right next to the Burj Khalifa sits the massive Dubai Mall, one of the world’s biggest shopping malls. Browse through over 1200 stores spread across 13 million square feet. From global brands to local boutiques, you’ll find a huge variety of shopping. Don’t miss attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo located inside featuring thousands of aquatic creatures. Wander through souvenir shops filled with traditional handicrafts and grab a bite to eat at one of the many dining options. - Palm Jumeirah :
This man-made archipelago in the shape of a palm tree is an iconic Dubai landmark seen from above. Take the Palm Monorail to the top to get a closeup view of the palm fronds lined with luxury villas, hotels, and apartment buildings. At the tip lies the dazzling Atlantis Hotel. Arrange a tour of the hotel to explore the underwater suites with floor-to-ceiling views into Ambassador Lagoon, swim with dolphins or even dive with sharks. It’s a luxurious resort experience perfect for a day or overnight visit. - Desert Safari :
While the city itself offers plenty of modern amenities, a desert safari takes you to experience Dubai’s rugged natural side. Safari tours pick you up for a dune-bashing drive into the desert interior to enjoy camel rides, sandboarding, henna tattoos, falconry displays, and more. As the sun sets, settle in at a Bedouin camp for a barbecue dinner and an Emirati dance show under the stars. - Dubai Miracle Garden :
Covering over 72,000 square meters, the Dubai Miracle Garden located near Arabian Ranches is the world’s largest natural flower garden. See colorful flower displays arranged into shapes like hearts, stars, igloos, and Emirati-inspired architectural structures. The floral exhibits change seasonally so there’s always something new in bloom. The garden is extra magical illuminated at night. - Dubai Creek Dhow Ride :
For an iconic Dubai experience, sail along Dubai Creek on a traditional wooden dhow boat. Feast on a buffet dinner as you gently cruise past the city skyline, peeking at historic sites like the gold and spice souks across the water. Many evening dinner cruises include live music and entertainment for a classic Arabian night out. It’s a relaxing way to view the city sights after a long day exploring on land. - Ski Dubai :
If you want to hit the slopes while in the desert, head to Ski Dubai in the Mall of the Emirates. This indoor ski resort spans over 22,500 square meters with 5 ski slopes covered in real snow all year round. Try skiing, snowboarding, sledding, or zooming down on a toboggan. Little ones can play in the snow park or meet the resident penguins who live at the snow resort. Après ski with a hot chocolate in the lodge café while enjoying views of the slopes. - Dubai Parks and Resorts :
Dubai Parks and Resorts is the Middle East’s largest integrated theme park destination spanning 30 million square feet. The resort consists of three distinct parks: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Dubai. Thrill seekers will love the rollercoasters at Motiongate inspired by movies like The Hunger Games and The Smurfs. At Bollywood Parks, experience rides based on hit Indian films. Families with little kids can enjoy Legoland’s interactive attractions and kiddie rides. - Dubai Frame :
Get the perfect panoramic shot spanning historic and modern Dubai at the Dubai Frame viewing platform. This iconic landmark looks like a giant picture frame rising nearly 500 feet tall over Zabeel Park. Take an elevator up to the sky deck bridge at the top for unobstructed views over Dubai Creek showcasing traditional architecture on one side and the glittering skyscrapers of new Dubai on the other. - Dubai Fountain Show :
The Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system at 900 feet long with water features that soar as high as 500 ft. Watch in awe as the fountains “dance” to global music selections with an array of 6,600 lights and 25 colored projectors. Shows occur daily in the afternoon and evening at 30-minute intervals in front of the Burj Khalifa. Arrive at least 30 minutes early to get a good viewing spot. - Dubai Opera :
Dubai Opera is the city’s first purpose-built multi-format performing arts theater, hosting major concerts, theater productions, opera, ballet, and more since opening in 2016. The architecturally stunning venue located in Downtown Dubai can seat over 2,000 guests. Check their event calendar for Broadway musicals, award shows, comedians, and other live performances happening during your stay. - Dubai Marina :
Take a stroll or boat cruise along Dubai Marina to view the dazzling array of skyscrapers and yachts dotting the waterfront. Walk along the Marina Promenade boardwalk offering fantastic vantage points for photos of the surrounding supertall buildings. Stop for a meal with a waterfront view or shop at the waterfront mall. Don’t miss the dancing fountains at The Beach Mall or the lively bars and restaurants perfect for experiencing Dubai’s nightlife. - Burj AI Arab :
You can’t miss the striking sail-shaped silhouette of the Burj Al Arab, Dubai’s most iconic 7-star hotel. Even if you don’t stay overnight, you can book afternoon tea at the Skyview Lounge on the 27th floor for panoramic views and plenty of photo ops. You should walk around the ritzy hotel with its luxurious gold-colored furnishing from the lobby to suites of your own butlers. - Dubai Butterfly Garden :
Belonging to the Miracle Garden complex, Dubai Butterfly Garden is a covered facility with about 15 thousand butterflies of over fifty species. Watch the butterflies float freely around you as they follow your path through this tropical garden, equipped with waterfalls, flowers, and rare birds. To make the experience even more magical, reserve a butterfly biowe to have them land on you. - iFly Dubai :
At iFly Dubai an indoor vertical wind tunnel enables you to enjoy the thrill of skydiving without jumping out of a flying aircraft. Following a training session, you’ll slip into your gear to enter the wind chamber for 90 seconds of free fall simulation that will leave you weightless. Without the need for parachuting, it is a safe way to mark skydiving off your bucket list.
