Top Things To Do In Dubai (United Arab Emirates) In 2026 - 2027

Top 10 things to do in Dubai

1. 1. Burj Khalifa 'At the Top' Experience

   Visit the Burj Khalifa, an iconic skyscraper in Dubai, and experience the 'At the Top' observation deck. With a height of 828 meters, the Burj Khalifa holds the title of the tallest building in the world. The observation deck offers stunning panoramic views of the city, desert, and Persian Gulf. A multimedia presentation will guide visitors through the history of Dubai and the construction of the Burj Khalifa. High-speed elevators whisk guests to the 124th and 125th floors where they can step out onto the outdoor terrace for breathtaking views. Be sure to book your tickets in advance to secure your spot, especially around sunset, when the views are particularly dramatic.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Varies (approx. $40 USD upwards depending on the level)

2. 2. Dubai Mall

   The Dubai Mall is not just a shopping destination but an extravagant entertainment hub. As one of the largest malls in the world, it boasts over 1,300 retail outlets including the high-end Fashion Avenue, and over 200 food and beverage outlets. Besides shopping, the mall offers diverse attractions such as an indoor ice rink, a massive indoor waterfall, an indoor theme park, and the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world. The mall is a family-friendly attraction, providing plenty of activities for children, such as KidZania - an interactive ‘edutainment’ center. Plan to spend a full day if you're attempting to explore it fully - there is truly something for everyone.

   Duration: Full day · Price: Free entry; Attractions have separate fees

3. 3. Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner

   Embark on a thrilling journey across the sweeping sand dunes outside Dubai with a desert safari adventure. Professional drivers will take you on a rollercoaster ride in a 4x4 vehicle, an activity known as dune bashing. Following the drive, you can enjoy a camel ride, sandboarding, and henna painting, or simply relax and take in the serene desert ambiance. As the sun sets, you'll be treated to a delicious barbecue dinner under the stars while entertained by traditional belly dancers and Tanoura performers. It's a remarkable experience that combines adventure, cultural entertainment, and a sumptuous dinner, capturing the spirit of the desert ecosystem and Bedouin traditions.

   Duration: 4-7 hours · Price: Around $50-80 USD

4. 4. Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise

   Discover the luxury and tranquility of Dubai Marina, one of the city's premier lifestyle destinations, on a dinner cruise. Glide along the calm waters of the artificial canal city, passing by illuminated skyscrapers and mega yachts. The two-hour cruise includes a sumptuous buffet dinner featuring a variety of international dishes, live cooking stations, and desserts. Traditional entertainment on board, such as Tanoura dance performances, enhances the dining experience. The dinner cruise presents a unique opportunity to view modern Dubai from a different angle while enjoying a delectable meal.

   Duration: 2 hours · Price: Approximately $50-70 USD

5. 5. Aquaventure Waterpark

   Aquaventure Waterpark, located within Atlantis The Palm, is one of Dubai's most thrilling waterparks. With its state-of-the-art waterslides, including the famous Leap of Faith, a near-vertical drop slide that propels you through a clear tube surrounded by sharks and rays, it guarantees a heart-racing experience for the whole family. You can also unwind on the 2.3-kilometre-long lazy river, relax on the private beach, or for extra fun, interact with friendly dolphins at the adjoining Dolphin Bay. Restaurants and snack bars are available on-site, and children can enjoy the Splashers Children’s Area with water cannons, slides, and climbing frames. Aquaventure offers a full-day of aquatic fun and relaxation.

   Duration: Full day · Price: Around $70-100 USD

6. 6. Ski Dubai

   Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort with 22,500 square meters of an indoor ski area and is part of the Mall of the Emirates. It is hard to imagine skiing in the desert, but Ski Dubai makes it possible with five ski slopes of varying difficulty and an 85-meter-high indoor mountain. The park maintains a constant temperature of -1 to 2 degrees Celsius. There is also a Snow Park for families with sled and toboggan runs, an ice cave, climbing towers, giant snowballs, and an ice café. Equipment rental and lessons are available for beginners. Playing in the snow or hitting the slopes, Ski Dubai offers a memorable wintry experience in the heart of the desert.

   Duration: 2 hours to Full day · Price: Starting from $55 USD for Snow Park access

7. 7. IMG Worlds of Adventure

   IMG Worlds of Adventure is an indoor amusement park that is one of Dubai’s newest attractions. It features thrilling rides, simulators, and live shows separated into four zones including Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure, and IMG Boulevard. You can ride roller coasters, meet your favorite animated characters, experience thrilling dinosaur-themed rides, and enjoy a variety of dining and shopping options. The park is completely indoors and air-conditioned, making it a great escape from the heat of Dubai, and offers entertainment for all ages, though ideally suited for families with children.

   Duration: Full day · Price: Approximately $60-80 USD

8. 8. Dubai Miracle Garden

   Dubai Miracle Garden is a floral wonderland, boasting over 150 million flowers in vibrant displays. As the world's largest natural flower garden, it features a spectacular array of blooms arranged in intricate patterns, whimsical shapes, and architectural structures. You'll find everything from a floral clock to an aromatic garden, and even full-size houses covered in flowers. While the best time to visit is during the cooler months from November to March, the garden opens its doors from mid-November to mid-May, offering visitors a chance to immerse themselves in a fragrant oasis in the desert.

   Duration: 2-3 hours · Price: Around $12-15 USD

9. 9. Dubai Frame

   The Dubai Frame is a recent addition to the city's skyline and has quickly become a must-see attraction. Standing at 150 meters tall and 95 meters wide, the iconic structure offers panoramic views of Old Dubai to the north and the glittering skyscrapers of New Dubai to the south through its 93-meter long bridge with a glass panel in the middle, providing a 360-degree view of the city. Interactive exhibitions on the ground floor provide insight into the transformation of Dubai from a fishing village to a vibrant metropolis. The Dubai Frame is both a remarkable engineering achievement and a unique viewing platform.

   Duration: 1-2 hours · Price: Approximately $14 USD

10. 10. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

    Located in the heart of the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo offers an enchanting world of underwater life. Visitors can marvel at the 10-million-liter tank that houses thousands of aquatic animals and boasts the largest collection of sand tiger sharks in the world. Walking through the 48-meter long aquarium tunnel provides an immersive experience of life under the sea. The Underwater Zoo upstairs takes you through various aquatic environments, from the rainforest to the ocean, and offers encounters with otters, piranhas, penguins, and many other species.

    Duration: 1-3 hours · Price: Starting from around $30 USD