Top 10 Things to Do in Dubai

Dubai is a city that defies superlatives. In just five decades, it has transformed from a small fishing village into one of the world's most extraordinary destinations — a place where the future is already here, where the desert meets the sea, and where every experience is designed to astonish. Here are the ten experiences that define Dubai.

1. Ascend the Burj Khalifa

At 828 metres, the Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest building — and the view from the 124th floor observation deck is simply breathtaking. Book the "At the Top SKY" experience on the 148th floor for the ultimate perspective. Go at sunset for the most dramatic light, and book weeks in advance.

2. Desert Safari at Sunset

No visit to Dubai is complete without a desert safari. The red dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve are just 45 minutes from the city. A premium safari includes dune bashing in a 4x4, camel riding, sandboarding, a Bedouin camp dinner under the stars, and traditional entertainment. Book a private safari for the most exclusive experience.

3. Walk the Dubai Marina

The Dubai Marina is one of the world's largest man-made marinas — a 3km waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, cafés and luxury yachts. Walk the Marina Walk at night when the skyscrapers are lit up, take a traditional abra (water taxi) across the water, or dine at one of the waterfront restaurants.

4. Shop at the Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall is not just a shopping centre — it's a destination in itself. With over 1,200 stores, an indoor ice rink, the Dubai Aquarium (home to the world's largest acrylic panel), a dinosaur skeleton, and the spectacular Dubai Fountain show outside, you could spend an entire day here without shopping at all.

5. Explore the Gold and Spice Souks

Cross the Dubai Creek by abra (traditional wooden boat) to reach the old city — Deira. The Gold Souk is one of the world's largest, with over 300 shops selling gold, diamonds and precious stones. Nearby, the Spice Souk fills the air with the fragrance of saffron, frankincense, cardamom and rose water. Bargaining is expected and part of the experience.

6. Visit the Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah is one of the world's most ambitious engineering projects — an artificial island in the shape of a palm tree, home to luxury hotels, residences and the Atlantis resort. Take the Palm Monorail for views of the island, visit the Atlantis Aquaventure waterpark, or simply walk the boardwalk for views of the Dubai skyline.

7. Dine at a World-Class Restaurant

Dubai has one of the world's most exciting restaurant scenes — from the Burj Al Arab's underwater restaurant to rooftop dining with Burj Khalifa views. Don't miss Nobu at Atlantis, Zuma in DIFC, or a traditional Emirati meal at Al Hadheerah in the desert. Book well in advance for the most popular venues.

8. Experience the Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame is a 150-metre picture frame that bridges old and new Dubai — with the historic city on one side and the modern skyline on the other. The glass-floored sky bridge between the two towers offers a vertiginous view straight down. It's one of Dubai's most photogenic and thought-provoking attractions.

9. Miracle Garden

The Dubai Miracle Garden is the world's largest natural flower garden — 150 million flowers arranged in extraordinary sculptures and displays, including a life-size Emirates A380 covered in flowers. Open from October to April only, it's a surreal and spectacular experience that contrasts beautifully with the surrounding desert.

10. Watch the Dubai Fountain Show

The Dubai Fountain is the world's largest choreographed fountain system — 275 metres of dancing water jets that shoot up to 150 metres in the air, choreographed to Arabic and international music. The show runs every 30 minutes after sunset and is free to watch from the Dubai Mall waterfront. For the best view, book a table at a waterfront restaurant.