You're dreaming of an unforgettable trip, but organizing activities in Dubai is a real headache? Don't panic: we've got the must-do list for a successful vacation in the heart of the United Arab Emirates, between soaring skyscrapers and bewitching desert.
Dubai, a city of superlatives, attracts millions of visitors every year, fascinated by its unique blend of futuristic modernity and oriental traditions. Situated in the heart of the desert, this metropolis of the United Arab Emirates is much more than a luxury destination: it's the scene of unforgettable experiences, intense adventures and rich cultural discoveries. If you're wondering what to do in Dubai, this comprehensive guide will immerse you in the world of must-do activities during your stay.
Before losing yourself in the many original experiences Dubai has to offer, it's essential to visit its architectural and cultural landmarks.
It's impossible to miss the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest tower. At 828 metres, it dominates the Dubai skyline, offering exceptional panoramic views of the city, the desert and the Persian Gulf. Climbing to the observation platforms on the 124th, 125th and 148th floors is an unrivalled experience, especially at sunset.
At the foot of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain enchants visitors with its water and light shows, set to the rhythm of famous musical numbers. Free of charge, this entertainment is one of the most popular with tourists, and can be admired from the terraces of the Dubai Mall or aboard a traditional abra on the lake.
With over 1,200 stores, a giant aquarium, an Olympic ice rink and an indoor waterfall, the Dubai Mall is much more than a shopping mall. It's a true leisure and entertainment center, where it's easy to spend an entire day, whether shopping or discovering its many attractions.
Just a few kilometers from the city, the golden immensity of the Dubai desert invites you to experience timeless moments. The desert is an essential part of any stay in Dubai.
It's impossible to miss the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest tower. At 828 metres, it dominates the Dubai skyline, offering exceptional panoramic views of the city, the desert and the Persian Gulf. Climbing to the observation platforms on the 124th, 125th and 148th floors is an unrivalled experience, especially at sunset.
For total immersion, opt for a night in the desert. Sleeping in a comfortable tent in the absolute calm of the desert, far from city lights, is an unforgettable experience. Some agencies offer luxurious options with gourmet meals, astronomical observatories and cultural events.
Behind its modern image, Dubai has deep roots that can be explored through its historic districts and museums.
The Al Fahidi district, also known as Bastakiya, is one of the oldest in Dubai. Its narrow streets and traditional houses with wind towers recall the Dubai of yesteryear. The Dubai Museum, located in Al Fahidi Fort, traces the city's history before the discovery of oil.
Just a few minutes away, the Deira district and its spice, textile and gold souks plunge you into an authentic oriental atmosphere. Don't forget to cross the Creek in an abra, a traditional wooden boat, for a trip back in time.
The Dubai Frame is a spectacular building in the shape of a giant frame that links the city's past and future. From the top, you can admire old Dubai on one side and ultramodern skyscrapers on the other, in striking contrast. A glass footbridge adds a touch of adrenalin to this cultural tour.
Dubai also offers dream beaches and water sports that live up to its reputation.
JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residences) is one of the most popular beaches, with its turquoise waters, seaside restaurants and children's activities. Kite Beach, meanwhile, is ideal for water sports enthusiasts such as kitesurfing and paddleboarding.
For a more chic and exclusive ambience, the private beaches of hotels such as the Burj Al Arab or Atlantis The Palm offer high-end experiences, often accessible with a day pass.
Dubai is a playground for water sports enthusiasts: jet-skiing around the Burj Al Arab, diving, parasailing or yacht cruises around Palm Jumeirah. You can even charter a private yacht with crew for an unforgettable day at sea.
To appeal to an ever-growing audience, Dubai is banking on entertainment on a grand scale. The city boasts an impressive range of theme parks, designed to amaze young and old alike, with immersive worlds and state-of-the-art attractions.
This gigantic complex brings together several theme parks, each with a strong identity. Motiongate, inspired by Hollywood studios, offers rides based on cult films such as Shrek, Hunger Games and Madagascar. Bollywood Parks plunges visitors into the colorful, musical atmosphere of Indian cinema. Legoland Dubai and its adjacent water park are perfect for younger visitors, with interactive attractions and LEGO brick sets. It's a destination in itself, ideal for spending a day - or even two - with the family.
With its 140,000 m² of fully air-conditioned space, IMG Worlds of Adventure is one of the largest indoor parks in the world. Divided into several themed zones, it transports visitors to the universes of Marvel, Cartoon Network and a prehistoric world populated by dinosaurs. Roller coasters, simulators and interactive attractions promise intense moments, whatever the weather. It's the perfect choice for fun in the heat and thrills at the same time.
Dubai is also the city of the exceptional. For those looking for out-of-the-ordinary experiences, the options are numerous.
A helicopter flight over the city allows you to admire the Burj Khalifa, the artificial islands and the desert from a unique angle. For a more peaceful atmosphere, a hot-air balloon ride at sunrise in the desert is a breathtaking spectacle, often accompanied by a gourmet breakfast in a nature reserve.
Dubai is brimming with exceptional restaurants: dine under the aquarium at Atlantis The Palm, enjoy Michelin-starred dishes in one of the restaurants of renowned chefs such as Gordon Ramsay, or experience the "Dinner in the Sky" restaurant, suspended 50 meters from the ground. Every meal can become a real adventure.
Dubai is not just a showcase for luxury and impressive architecture. For several years now, the city has been developing a veritable cultural scene, placing art, innovation and creativity at the heart of its modern identity.
Located in Al Quoz, Alserkal Avenue is today one of the most dynamic spots on the Middle East art scene. This rehabilitated, formerly industrial district is home to contemporary art galleries, artists' studios, concept stores, cafés and event spaces. Here, you'll discover often audacious exhibitions, live performances and installations that question the challenges of the modern world. It's the ideal place to experience Dubai's creative energy, far from the usual tourist clichés.
With its elliptical shape pierced by Arabic calligraphy, the Museum of the Future is a masterpiece in itself. This museum offers total immersion in the world of tomorrow: artificial intelligence, space exploration, sustainable environment, robotics... Each space is interactive and designed to stimulate thought and imagination. A captivating visit that blends technology, emotion and anticipation, not to be missed under any circumstances.
Shopping in Dubai isn't just about luxury brands. The city offers a truly diverse range of experiences, from traditional markets to ultra-modern themed shopping malls.
For an authentic experience, there's nothing like a stroll through the souks of Deira. The Gold Souk, famous for its glittering shop windows, rubs shoulders with the Spice Souk and its enchanting scents. You'll also find fabrics, incense and souvenirs, all in a typically oriental atmosphere. It's also an opportunity to test the art of negotiation, a must in this type of market.
Dubai's shopping malls are destinations in themselves. The Mall of the Emirates surprises with Ski Dubai, its indoor ski resort, while the Dubai Festival City Mall offers a fountain show worthy of the greatest shows. Each mall has its own specificity, combining shopping, gastronomy, leisure and even culture, to make every visit a memorable experience.
To help you make the most of your stay in Dubai, we've compiled an analysis of possible activities, classified by budget, duration and audience. This will help you prioritize according to your desires and constraints. But where to invest for a truly memorable experience? Dubai offers a wide range of options: there's definitely something for everyone! Whether you're a family, a couple or a group of friends, you can make the most of this charming city in the United Arab Emirates. From modern attractions to cultural excursions and desert adventures, Dubai is sure to surprise you. By the way, remember to book your tickets in advance for certain activities!
| Activity | Average cost | Recommended duration | Public | Ideal period |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Burj Khalifa | 44 € | 2-3 hours | All audiences | All year round |
| Dubai Mall | Variable | Full day | All audiences | All year round |
| Dubai Fountain | Free (premium options) | 30 minutes - 1 hour | All audiences | All year round |
| Burj Al Arab | On request | Made to measure | Luxury | All year round |
| Global Village | 20 AED | Full day | Children/adults | November - April |
| Dubai Aquarium | 30 € | 2-3 hours | Children/adults | All year round |
| Museum of the Future | 145 AED | 3-4 hours | All audiences | All year round |
| Desert safari | 180 AED | 6-7 hours | Sensations | October - April |
| Miracle Garden | 75 AED | 2-3 hours | Children/adults | November - May |
| Dubai Frame | 50 AED | 2-3 hours | All audiences | All year round |
Dubai opens its arms to you with soaring towers, desert escapades and breathtaking water shows. Are you ready for an unforgettable experience? Then why delay? Book your Dubai activities today and fly away to a world of wonders!
Visitors agree that Dubai offers an incredible diversity of activities. Between desert, sea, shopping, culture and thrills, there's something for everyone. Many appreciate the ease of access to experiences, the high level of organization and the quality of infrastructure, making every outing smooth and memorable.
A common mistake is to want to do everything in a short space of time, leaving no time for relaxation. Others forget to check schedules according to season or public holidays. Last but not least, some people book at the last minute, which limits their options and wastes time.
We recommend planning your stay to combine culture, relaxation and adventure. Vary your experiences between desert, city and sea to discover all the facets of the emirate. Don't forget to check the prerequisites for each activity and adapt your clothing to the program.
Dubai offers a host of unusual activities for those who want to get off the beaten track. For example, you can ski at Ski Dubai, a rather surprising indoor ski resort. For a truly unforgettable experience, spend a night glamping in the desert, with all modern comforts. It's a great way to enjoy the peace and quiet of the desert.
Thrill-seekers can take a hot-air balloon ride over the desert at sunset. It's a magnificent sight. Finally, for a typical evening out, why not opt for a dinner cruise on a dhow - a traditional boat? You can admire the illuminated skyscrapers as you dine.
Dubai offers quite a few indoor activities for those who want to escape the heat, apart from the famous Dubai Mall. For example, you can go to Ski Dubai, at the Mall of the Emirates, for a unique skiing experience. For theme park fans, IMG Worlds of Adventure offers thrill rides based on the Cartoon Network and Marvel universes - so you can have a great time!
Marine enthusiasts will love the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, while gamers can enjoy themselves at the Atlantis Hotel's Wavehouse, with bowling and arcade games. And let's not forget a visit to the Burj Al Arab and its aquatic restaurants. There's plenty to do!
Dubai really lights up at night and offers a multitude of options for a memorable evening. Don't miss the Dubai Fountains show, a breathtaking aquatic ballet. For a breathtaking view, climb the Burj Khalifa and admire the illuminated city. It's quite impressive.
For a more relaxing evening, you can opt for a traditional night cruise on a dhow. Show lovers will appreciate La Perle de Dragone, an impressive aquatic show. Finally, take a stroll through Dubai Marina and enjoy its twinkling lights. It's a pleasant place to stroll.
The budget for visiting Dubai varies according to your travel style. For an average budget, allow around €268 per day for two people, including accommodation, meals and activities. You can cut costs by opting for budget accommodation and using public transport. This can help keep the budget under control.
Flights can represent a significant part of the budget, with an average cost of €450 per person for a Paris-Dubai flight; paid activities can also impact the budget, but many free options are available such as visiting the souks or the fountain show, which means there are ways to enjoy without breaking the bank.
Dubai is a shopper's paradise. Malls are a popular option, with a wide variety of brands, from luxury to more affordable. The Dubai Mall is one of the largest in the world, offering a huge choice of stores. You're bound to find what you're looking for.
For a more traditional experience, explore Souk Al Bahar, with its Arabian souk-inspired ambience. The Dubai Gold Souk is also a must for jewelry and fabric lovers. It's the ideal place to find original souvenirs.
At Visiter Dubai, we fell in love with this private safari in the red dunes of Lahbab. It's an activity we wholeheartedly recommend to anyone looking for an authentic and memorable desert experience. The mix of thrills (thanks to dune bashing!), moments of calm on camelback, and cultural immersion at Al Khayma camp is simply perfect. A special mention for the barbecue dinner under the stars, which brings the day to a magical close. Whether you're a couple, a group of friends or a family, this activity ticks all the boxes: comfort, a change of scenery and an impeccable welcome.
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