25 Best Things To Do During Your Stay in Dubai
Pick and choose your favorites or check off our entire list
12 Min Read
12 Min ReadWhat’s there to do in Dubai? Well, pretty much everything.
If you’re already living in Dubai or spending your first weekend there soon, we’ve put together the 25 things you can’t miss while there.
No matter what you’re interested in — the best rooftop bars, shopping malls, nighttime activities, or kid-friendly ideas — we’ve got you covered.
As for where you should stay, that’s simple.
Blueground’s fully furnished apartments give you a hassle-free way to live in comfort and style in Dubai’s best neighborhoods.
While you’re in Dubai living, working, and exploring, try to check off the whole list below!
Or just pick a few of your favorites.
5 Best Things To Do in Dubai at Night
1. Swim beneath the stars on the 50th floor
AURA Skypool is the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool. It’s located on the Nakheel’s Palm Tower – 50 stories up!
Our suggestion?
Since it’s open until midnight on Sundays, arrive right before sunset.
Then, grab a signature cocktail from the bar to sip as the sun goes down.
You’ll experience unforgettable views of the Dubai skyline and Palm Jumeirah as you swim and lounge while great music plays.
Definitely one of the best nighttime activities in Dubai!
2. Catch a movie at an open-air cinema
Why sit in a dark theater to watch a movie when you can sit beneath the stars in the open air?
At the Galleria Mall in Dubai, you’ll watch the latest flicks in style and comfort at the outdoor cinema.
It’s definitely one of the best activities at night in Dubai. Just kick back and enjoy a movie experience unlike anything else.
Don’t want to be disturbed? For hassle-free snacking, use the VOX Cinemas app to order your favorite drink, popcorn, or other delicious eats.
Two thumbs up!
3. Watch a record-breaking laser and light show
While Dubai Festival City Mall has great shops and restaurants, the highlight of this mall is IMAGINE — a dazzling show that blends lasers, lights, and water.
This one-of-a-kind nighttime show has earned two Guinness World Records for its size.
Simply put, it’s unforgettable!
With Dubai’s skyline as the backdrop, you’ll be entertained by an awe-inspiring multimedia show set to high-energy music.
It’s a really fun thing to do in Dubai for couples or families.
4. Speed around the track at Dubai Kartdrome
For adrenaline junkies, Dubai Kartdrome is a heart-pumping good time.
Its 600-meter indoor and 1.2-kilometer outdoor racing tracks are open until midnight, so you can race late into the night.
No gear?
No problem. Because everything is included with your ride: helmets, suits, and a kart, of course.
The outdoor track is lit by floodlights and boasts 17 corners, a tunnel, and a bridge. This variety adds to the thrilling experience!
Test your driving skills against friends or come by yourself and make new ones.
5. Enjoy sky-high eats and entertainment
Located on the 53rd floor of the Sheraton Grand Hotel, 53 Dubai is the top dinner show in Dubai. Literally!
It’s a spacious spot with jaw-dropping views of downtown and a unique vibe that’s at once laid-back and elegant.
Treat your taste buds to a range of flavors, from Asian to Mediterranean to Latin American — all while performers take the stage.
You can expect different kinds of acts on stage depending on the night: dancers, singers, acrobats, and more.
The result?
A truly mesmerizing experience for your senses!
5 Best Things To Do in Dubai With Kids
1. Explore the attractions at Dubai Mall
You may take a few trips to fully explore Dubai Mall, the second largest mall in the world.
Fortunately, Blueground has turnkey apartments located close by, so shopaholics can be near what they love.
Many of the mall’s stores and experiences are aimed at kids.
In fact, it’s home to the Dubai Aquarium, an Olympic-sized skating rink, a giant waterfall, the world’s largest candy store, and so much more.
2. Make a splash at Aquaventure Waterpark
If bigger is better, Aquaventure Waterpark may be the best.
It’s home to over 105 slides, attractions, and experiences, including the world’s widest water slide, the Middle East’s longest river ride, and the region’s longest zip line.
For those that want to take it easy, there’s a 1-kilometer-long private beach.
Or you can hand-feed rays — an amazing experience that your kids won’t soon forget.
Sure, it’s one of the most kid-friendly things to do in Dubai, but adults will love it, too.
Seriously, it’s one of the best waterparks in the world!
3. Spend the day at IMG Worlds of Adventure
Children of all ages love IMG Worlds of Adventure. That’s because it’s the world’s largest indoor theme and amusement park.
This entertainment destination has several different zones, so you can pick what works best for your kids.
You’ll discover live stage shows, meet-and-greets, and an endless number of rides and experiences.
It features attractions based on Marvel and Cartoon Network characters as well as others.
Trust us, your kids will sleep well after a full day here.
4. Experience an exotic tropical forest
An indoor rainforest?
Say no more! The Green Planet Dubai is one of the must-do things in Dubai.
Home to over 3,000 plants and animals, this top Dubai destination features piranhas, slow loris, pythons, and more.
Plus, your kids can have up close encounters with birds, reptiles, sloths, and sugar gliders.
It’s a great opportunity to take pictures and ask a local biologist any questions.
Perfect for curious kids!
Getting hungry?
Grab lunch at the Green Planet Cafe. The kid-approved menu includes: burgers, pasta, pizza, salads, and more.
5. Relax (or play) at a Dubai beach
Clearly, one of the best things to do in Dubai with kids is to visit the beaches.
Sunshine, fresh air, and family is the ideal recipe for a great time. Bonus points if you build a sandcastle!
Let your kids splash while you relax. Or join in the fun and let them bury you beneath the sand.
Marina Beach and Kite Beach have fantastic views and are a couple of our favorite beaches in Dubai for families.
There’s also JBR Beach, which is popular and centrally located. However, if you want a quieter experience, think about going to Jumeirah Open Beach.
Just keep in mind that you may need to pay for umbrellas or chairs, so consider bringing your own.
5 Best Things To Do in Dubai for Free
1. Visit the Camel Museum
Mixing education and entertainment, the Camel Museum might be the best free thing to do in Dubai.
This museum is full of interesting details. Discover the history, benefits, and characteristics of camels, along with how to care for them.
You’ll also learn about the importance of camels to this area of the world and how they’re trained to race.
While you’re there, don’t miss the chance to sit on a camel and pretend to be a jockey.
2. Walk around Bluewaters Dubai
Why not go for a stroll in the Bluewaters Dubai area?
It’s free to explore.
Here, the main attraction is Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel.
In addition, there are numerous retail spots where you can browse without ever opening up your wallet.
Perhaps the simplest way to enjoy Bluewaters Dubai?
Take in the breathtaking scenery.
This area’s picturesque view of the Arabian Gulf can’t be beat!
3. Visit Dubai Aquarium
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo may not be free, but catching a glimpse of it is.
Located in the Dubai Mall, this one-of-a-kind aquarium houses thousands of aquatic animals, including over 400 sharks and rays.
You can view part of its gigantic tank while walking through the mall.
No ticket required!
Be warned though, after you sneak a peek of this jaw-dropping space, you may want to see the whole aquarium.
4. Have a date at Love Lake
Here’s proof that romance on a budget is possible.
Love Lake is two interlocking, heart-shaped bodies of water in Dubai’s Al Qudra oasis.
It’s well-suited for couples and completely free to visit!
A short drive from the, umm, the heart of Dubai, these artificial lagoons are tourist hotspots because of how photo-worthy they are.
But you can do more than just snap pictures here.
After all, it’s a terrific place to picnic, watch the sun go down, walk your dog, or listen to birds singing.
Need a ride to get there?
Blueground partners with over 50 brands, including car rental companies, to make your stay in Dubai as enjoyable as possible.
5. Witness the stunning Dubai Fountain show
Seeing the Dubai Fountain is one of the best things to do in Dubai for free.
Choreographed to popular music, these dancing water fountains are in the center of Downtown Dubai.
Once you’re there, you won’t have to wait long for the show to start.
That’s because this five-minute spectacle happens on the Burj Khalifa Lake every 30 minutes, from 6 to 11 pm.
Afterward, you can say you’ve seen the world’s tallest performing fountain, which can spray water up to 140 meters into the air!
5 Best Rooftop Bars in Dubai
1. Zeta Seventy Seven
While it’s one of the newest rooftop bars in Dubai, Zeta Seventy Seven has already made its mark since opening in 2021.
Perched atop the Address Beach Resort, this Dubai rooftop bar offers jaw-droppping views of the Arabian Gulf and Palm Jumeirah.
It’s around 300 meters up — on the 77th level!
From open-air tables to private air-conditioned cabanas, it’s a great spot to get together with friends.
Select from Asian fusion dishes or sip on masterfully made cocktails.
Just be sure to make a reservation! It’s incredibly popular.
2. Level 43 Sky Lounge
Want views of the Dubai skyline while sipping your favorite mixed drink?
Head to Level 43 Sky Lounge, one of the best rooftop bars Dubai has to offer.
Along with delicious food and laid-back tunes, this rooftop bar features a first-class drink menu.
Options include fine wines, beer, and a huge selection of mixed drinks for every taste.
For those that enjoy relaxation, Level 43 Sky Lounge may be your favorite hangout.
Day or night!
3. Luna Sky Bar
It’s fitting that the Luna Sky Bar is a star of the Dubai rooftop bar scene.
After all, each of the signature cocktails served here have planet and constellation-themed names.
Located in the Four Seasons Hotel DIFC, this chic rooftop lounge designed by Adam Tihany lets you chill inside or out.
Visit with friends in the sophisticated indoor lounge or enjoy drinks al fresco on the terrace.
The views of Dubai’s towering skyline are simply stunning, so you’ll have a wonderful atmosphere any time of the day.
4. Treehouse
If you ever wanted to play in a treehous as a kid, this grownup version is a dream come true.
Treehouse is one of the most impressive rooftop bars in Dubai.
Naturally, the decorations feature lots of greenery and trees to create the right atmosphere.
Mediterranean eats, lounge beats, Renaissance decor, and plush furniture complete the scene.
Trust us, this urban retreat is the perfect escape with friends, especially if you want a great drink in a one-of-a-kind environment.
5. CE LA VI
On the 57th floor of Marina Bay Sands, CÉ LA VI takes Dubai’s rooftop bars to new heights.
This award-winning rooftop bar provides panoramic views of the city while evoking a Southeast Asian vibe.
The space is separated into the restaurant, SkyBar, club lounge, and pool deck, so you can choose exactly where you want to be.
From its Asian cuisine to the signature cocktails crafted by talented mixologists, CÉ LA VI certainly lives up to the French saying.
This is the life.
Dubai’s 5 Best Shopping Malls
1. The Dubai Mall
Not only is the Dubai Mall a favorite for families, it’s a shopper’s paradise, too.
The reason it’s one of Dubai’s best shopping malls?
Over 1,200 stores spread across four stories!
Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale’s are the mall’s two main anchors.
But be sure to check out the over 150 luxury shopping and dining options at Fashion Avenue as well.
Whether you’re searching for something in particular or just window shopping, this extensive space has exactly what you’re after.
2. Mall of the Emirates
Eat, shop, and have extraordinary experiences at the Mall of the Emirates.
This huge space is home to a family entertainment center, cinema complex, and over 550 shops.
Also, it’s a place that makes the impossible possible.
For instance, just because you’re in the desert doesn’t mean you can’t have snow.
So hit the slopes at Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort with space to ski, snowboard, or zip line — all inside the mall.
3. The Outlet Village
Bargain hunters, rejoice!
Because luxury fashion and affordable prices come together at The Outlet Village in Dubai.
You’ll feel as if you’re in Tuscany, Italy while shopping thanks to the mall’s inspired architecture.
Once inside this upscale space, shoppers enjoy big discounts on popular brands. These include: Armani, Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger, Coach, Kate Spade, Michael Kors, and many more.
Even better?
There’s a complimentary shuttle bus service, baby strollers, and WiFi.
Together, that makes it a hassle-free shopping experience.
That’s also part of why it ranks as a top mall in Dubai.
4. Dubai Festival City
Situated close to the airport, Dubai Festival City is often visitors’ first stop when arriving in Dubai.
Featuring the UAE’s first IKEA as well as timeless fashion brands, this waterfront shopping spot is a must-visit.
However, the highlight of the mall may be its IMAGINE laser and light show — dazzling display you have to see to believe.
Also, Dubai Festival City offers many leisure options, such as a flight simulator, freestyle terrain park, and boat rides.
5. Dubai Marina Mall
Located right on the water, Dubai Marina Mall is a go-to shopping spot that opened in 2003.
This modern, indoor mall boasts around 140 stores on four levels and 390,000 square feet. It’s on the smaller side for this city, but it’s still one of the best places to shop in Dubai.
Plus, there’s a variety of cuisine, with 26 different places to get eats and drinks.
With a six-screen movie theater, supermarket, and children’s play area, entertainment and essentials are here as well.
Stay long enough to do it all
Blueground offers turnkey apartments in Dubai for stays of a month, a year, or longer.
Each space features a fully equipped kitchen, premium linens, smart entertainment essentials, and more.
So your time in the city will be comfortable while you check out the best places to visit in Dubai!
