Skip to content

Top 30 Things to Do in Dubai in Year-End

Don’t forget to try these the next time you visit Dubai.

Dubai is one of the trendiest destinations to visit around the year, but its charm amplifies during year-end as winter approaches. From an impressive skyline rigged with skyscrapers to several top architectural marvels, the City of Gold is sandwiched between the massive Arabian desert and the stunning Persian Gulf. 

Top 30 Activities and Attractions in Dubai

Dubai offers countless adventurous activities for thrill-seekers. We’ve prepared a list of the top 30 activities that you must try the next time you’re in town.

The Burj Khalifa

Synonymous with Dubai, the Burj Khalifa is a must-visit when in town. Constructed in 2010, the world’s tallest skyscraper stands at 828 meters and offers an unparallel view of the landscape. The building has one of the world’s fastest elevators that you can take to reach the observation platforms on floors 124 and 125.

maxresdefault

The Dubai Mall

Located in the heart of the city, right next to the Burj Khalifa is the Dubai Mall. It’s the largest shopping mall in the world and houses over 1200 shops and restaurants. That’s not all! The Dubai Mall has a marine aquarium, an indoor waterfall, a go-kart track, an ice rink, arcade games, cinemas, a flight simulator, and a lot more.

ewNI4DDL-Dubai-Mall-4

The Dubai Fountain

We’ll be using the term “the world’s largest” a lot today. After all, Dubai isn’t famous for being humble! Step out of The Dubai Mall and witness the world’s largest water fountain located right at the foot of Burj Khalifa. Visit after dark when the tower is illuminated and watch a magnificent ballet of water jets.

maxresdefault (1)

Palm Islands

Atlantis The Palm Hotel is another major attraction. Located in the iconic Palm Jumeirah, this luxurious hotel’s architecture was inspired by the mythical city. Not to mention the island where it’s located is in the shape of a huge palm tree. Some of the major attractions nearby include the Lost Chambers Aquarium, Aquaventure Waterpark, and Dolphin Bay.

dubai-palm-island-1

The Burj Al-Arab

One of the only 7-star resorts on the planet, The Burj al-Arab redefines opulence. Even if staying here is out of the question, the good news is you can still visit the hotel. Get a lunch or dinner reservation and prepare for your most luxurious meal experience ever. Some of the most popular options are SkyView Bar, Al Mahara Aquarium Restaurant, and Bab Al Yam.

burj-al-arab-profile-exterior_6-4_landscape

Souks of the Deira District

Far away from the glitz and glamour of Dubai are its traditional neighborhoods. Take a stroll through the picturesque Deira district and explore the several souks or local markets. If you want to visit Old Dubai, better take a guided tour. If you want to explore the by-lanes yourself, the spice souk, gold souk, and perfume souk should be on the top of your list.

Dubai_Gold_Souk_on_31_May_2007_Pict_1

Bur Dubai

One of the prime locations of Old Dubai, Bur Dubai is located just opposite the Deira district on the other bank of the Dubai Creek. Getting there involves an Abra ride, a small traditional boat. Immerse yourself in the beautifully chaotic ambiance as the Dhows deliver goods to the souks.

bur dubai

Dubai Marina

The Dubai Marina is a popular tourist attraction. Take a stroll by the shores and admire the magnificent Dubai skyline. Parked at the marina are some of the largest and most extravagant yachts on the planet. Spend an evening aboard a luxury yacht and relish a VIP moment. There’s a big shopping complex at the marina, featuring brand stores like H&M, Guess, Levi’s, and more.

view-of-hotel-from-dubai

Dubai Museum

Located in the Al Fahidi Fortress, Dubai Museum narrates the rich history of the region. Right from the days of the first tribes that called this arid region home to the financial boom of the 1960s. The museum offers an excellent perspective of the land and gives tourists a prime view of the region before the stupendous economic revolution.

dubaimuseum-FevreDream-5b5652c146e0fb003704f7b2

Dubai Garden Glow

If you like long walks in the evening, we recommend taking a stroll in the Dubai Garden Glow. The park is home to numerous sculptures that come alive after sunset with the light shows. There’s also an ice park and Magic Park where you can click funny pictures.

Dubai Garden Glow Ticket

Dubai Frame

One of Dubai’s newest attractions, Dubai Frame is a 150-meter-high photo frame that offers a panoramic view of the landscape. If you align yourself just right, you can click a picture with The Burj Khalifa on one side and Old Dubai on the other.

shutterstock_1669247047

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Located in The Dubai Mall, there are several excellent exhibits that you can view. While tourists can explore the shark exhibit for free, you must pay for the others. The highlight of the zoo is King Croc, one of the oldest crocodiles in the world. The magnificent creature is 5-meters long and weighs a whopping 750kgs.

dubai acquarium

The Beach and The Walk

Planning to take a stroll on the beach, The Beach is a public beach in Dubai where you can take a dip, rent deck chairs, and enjoy a range of aquatic activities. Alongside The Beach is The Walk, a stretch of pavement lined with restaurants, cafes, and chic boutiques. To reach The Beach, take a subway to DAMAC and a train to Jumeirah Beach Residence or JBR.

The Beach and The Walk

The Madinat Jumeirah Souk

The Madinat Jumeirah Souk is a large shopping area notable for its historic architecture and classic atmosphere. Lined with canal-side restaurants, tourists can take a boat ride to admire the beauty of the place. There are several viewpoints over the Burj al-Arab right outside the souk.

The Madinat Jumeirah Souk

Mall of the Emirates

If you think Dubai Mall is the only mega shopping complex in Dubai, you’re mistaken. Mall of the Emirates is a prominent shopping complex that houses the famous Ski Dubai, an indoor skiing area that operates even when the ambient temperature is over 40°C. If you don’t fancy skiing, you can visit the numerous restaurants and showrooms in the mall.

Dubai 2008

Global Village

One of the perks of visiting Dubai at the end of the year is a chance to visit the Global Village. Located on the outskirts, Global Village is a reconstruction of several iconic monuments from around the world. Popular attractions include the Roman Colosseum, Leaning Tower of Pisa, and Taj Mahal, to name a few.

Global-Village

Etihad Museum

Dedicated to the foundation of the United Arab Emirates, Etihad Museum has several testimonials, films, and interactive terminals narrating the process that led to the creation of the UAE and a brief history of its seven founding sheiks. If you like to dabble in history, the Etihad Museum makes for a compelling visit.

Außenaufnahme des ETIHAD MUSEUMs Dubai, UAE; Moriyama & Teshima Architekten

La Mer

Another iconic promenade next to the sea, La Mer is home to several restaurants and beaches. Popular attractions include Laguna Waterpark, which is home to a wave pool, several slides, and more. If you’re traveling with kids, La Mer should be on your bucket list.

la-mer

Dubai Canal Walk

A prominent evening activity in Dubai. The walk commences near the Business Bay station and follows the Dubai Canal for 3kms. There are 3 beautifully designed bridges along the way that allow tourists to walk to either bank. Although the route is still under construction, it offers an excellent view of Burj Khalifa and the Dubai skyline.

Dubai-Canal-view

The Financial District

One of the most iconic places in Dubai lined with skyscrapers, The Dubai International Financial Center or DIFC not only houses offices, but is also home to several restaurants, art galleries, luxury hotels, and much more. The highlights of the place are Jumeriah Emirates Tower, World Trade Center, Gate Building, Gate Avenue, and Galleries of the DIFC.

DIFC

Jumeirah Mosque

The only mosque in Dubai open to people of every religion and faith, Jumeirah Mosque is a must-visit. Take a guided tour to learn about the 5 pillars of the faith. Of course, you must be properly dressed to enter the premises.

Jumeira_Mosque_Dubai-2

Miracle Garden

Just like everything else in Dubai, Miracle Garden screams extravagance. Home to over 150 million flowers, Miracle Garden holds a world record for being the largest vertical garden in the world. The park is open from November to May, making it a top draw if you’re visiting during the end of the year.

Dubai-Miracle-Garden-Timings-Location-and-Tickets-scaled

Dubai Creek Park

One of the largest parks in the region, Dubai Creek Park is located right on the waterfront and is very popular with the locals during the weekend. The Dubai Dolphinarium and Children’s City are popular landmarks nearby.

Dubai Creek Park

IMG World of Adventure

The second-largest indoor amusement park in the world, IMG World of Adventure is packed with thrills. Take a wild roller coaster ride, visit the haunted house, or watch a 4D movie in the park. The park is divided into 5 zones – Marvel, Lost Valley, Novo Cinemas, IMG-Boulevard, and Cartoon Network.

IMG-World-of-Adventure

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Soar above the Dubai skyline in a hot air balloon ride. The activity is exhilarating and calming at the same time. Keep an eye out for camels as you float through the air, 4000 feet above sea level.

c9.jpg

Visit Al Ain

A UNESCO World Heritage Site near Dubai, Al Ain is home to several places of wonder like the Palace of Sheikh Zayed, the UAE’s first president, the camel, and dromedary market, the Al Ain National Museum, Al Jahili Fort, Jebel Hafeet Mountain, and the oasis.

Al-Batha-Nature-Reserve-1280x720.jpg

Dune Bashing in the Arabian Desert

If you’re into adventure motorsports, Dubai offers a unique proposition – dune bashing in the Arabian desert. Strap yourself in a 4x4 SUV as the driver guns up and down steep slopes at high speeds. If things get too heavy, take a calm and relaxing camel ride to end the day.

maxresdefault.jpg

Aventura Parks

Unleash your inner Tarzan at Aventura Parks. Swing from treetops on a wide variety of zip lines, take an obstacle course or use the giant swings. There are over 85 obstacles to choose from and there is something for all age groups and proficiency levels in the park.

06.jpg

Visit Abu Dhabi

Located just 1.5 hours from Dubai is the famous Abu Dhabi. Some of the most iconic landmarks are Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Fortress Qasr Al Hosn, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Watan, Emirates Palace, and Yas Island.

77881051.cms

Entermission Dubai

There’s no better way to spend a soothing winter morning than vising an escape room in Dubai. If you’re an adventure buff, Entermission has several thrilling escape games for groups of all ages and sizes. Get together with friends or family and solve mysteries before time runs out.

covid-safe.jpg

Leave a Comment