Must See and Do

Most Popular Places and Activities to Explore in Dubai

1. Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest man-made building in the world and an iconic landmark of the United Arab Emirates. From its observation decks on the 124th floor and the exclusive “At The Top Sky” on the 148th floor, visitors can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline. Entry fees vary depending on the time of day, with sunrise and sunset being the most popular visiting times. Whether you visit during the day or at night, standing 830 meters above the ground is an unforgettable experience. Interestingly, sunset is visible a few minutes earlier on the lower floors compared to the top. Towering more than three times the height of the Eiffel Tower, the tip of the Burj Khalifa can be seen from as far as 95 kilometers away.

2. Dubai Marina

Although Dubai is not traditionally a walking city, a stroll along the Dubai Marina promenade is a must. Lined with restaurants, cafes, and stunning skyscrapers, the Marina is the perfect place to relax in the evening. You can also book cruises or boat tours to explore the waterfront. For thrill-seekers, the XLine Zipline from Amwaj Towers to Dubai Marina Mall is one of the steepest and fastest ziplines in the world, reaching speeds up to 80 km/h over a 1-kilometer stretch.

3. Dubai Mall

The UAE’s largest shopping mall, Dubai Mall, spans an area equivalent to 50 soccer fields. Located at the base of the Burj Khalifa, it attracts more annual visitors than malls in New York or Los Angeles. With over 1,200 stores—including a vast collection of gold jewelry—this mall offers unique attractions such as a real dinosaur skeleton, a massive aquarium, an ice-skating rink, and KidZania, a large indoor theme park. If you're visiting in November, don't miss the Dubai Black Friday Sale, where you can enjoy massive discounts across fashion, electronics, and luxury brands—perfect for shoppers looking for great deals during their Dubai holiday. It’s easy to get lost exploring everything Dubai Mall has to offer!

4. Dubai Fountain Show

The Dubai Fountain is one of the world’s most impressive water shows, located at the base of the Burj Khalifa on the lake outside Dubai Mall. Running every evening from dusk until midnight, the fountain performs a 10-minute show every half hour featuring choreographed water jets, lights, and music. The show’s songs and choreography change regularly, so every visit offers a unique experience. Grab a seat at a lakeside restaurant or arrive early for a prime viewing spot and prepare to be mesmerized.

5. Palm Jumeirah

Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah is a remarkable man-made island shaped like a palm tree and recognized as the largest artificial island in the world—visible even from space. Home to over 30 luxury hotels, including the famous Atlantis, The Palm, the island offers beautiful lagoons ideal for yachting and pristine beaches perfect for water sports. To fully appreciate the scale and design of Palm Jumeirah, take a ride on the Palm Monorail or, for the best view, a helicopter tour over the island.

6. Dune Buggy Adventure

Experience the thrill of a dune buggy tour across Dubai’s desert dunes. Ride over the sandy landscape while enjoying panoramic desert views. Many tours include traditional meals and cultural performances such as belly dancing. For an even more adventurous day, book a Dubai desert safari that combines dune bashing in a 4WD, camel riding, and sandboarding, offering the perfect mix of adrenaline and cultural immersion.

The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March, when the weather is pleasantly warm and ideal for outdoor activities. During these months, Dubai experiences clear skies and mild temperatures, making it perfect for exploring the city’s iconic landmarks, beaches, and desert adventures.

This period is considered the peak tourist season, offering comfortable conditions compared to the scorching heat of summer. With daytime temperatures ranging from 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F), it’s the perfect time for sightseeing, shopping, and enjoying Dubai holiday packages.

From April onwards, temperatures begin to rise, often reaching uncomfortable highs during the summer months. Many travelers prefer the cooler months between November and March for a more enjoyable and memorable Dubai holiday experience.