Things to Do in Dubai

Skydiving is one of the most exciting must-do things to do in Dubai if you love adventures. It lets you experience the thrill of jumping out of a plane while enjoying amazing views of the Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and the Arabian Gulf. This is a great adventure that should be on your  bucket-list.

• What to Expect
  When you go skydiving, you’ll jump from a plane at 13,000 feet in the air. You will fall at speeds up to 120 miles per hour, which is very fast. You will be jumping with an expert instructor, so don’t worry if it’s your first time. The views you will see during the freefall are incredible! You can also buy a video and photo package to capture the whole experience.
• Best Time to Visit
  The best time to go skydiving is between October and April when the weather is clear and not too hot. It’s best to go in the early morning because the sky is clear, and the winds are calm, making it easier to jump.
• Cost & Booking Information
  A tandem skydive costs around AED 2,199 (about $600). You can book your spot online in advance through Skydive Dubai.
• Insider Tips
  Wear comfortable clothes and sneakers. Be sure to arrive 30 minutes early for the briefing. Check if you meet the weight and health requirements before booking.

Dune bashing is one of the most exciting adventures where you ride in a 4x4 car across the sand dunes of Dubai’s desert. If you like fast rides and the feeling of excitement, this is the activity for you!

• What to Expect
  During dune bashing, you’ll ride in a 4x4 vehicle with an experienced driver who will take you over big sand dunes. The ride lasts about 45 minutes and is full of sharp turns and bumps that make it an adrenaline-pumping adventure. It is known among the must do things in Dubai. You can also take amazing photos of the desert sunset. After the ride, there are options to try sandboarding (sliding down dunes), ride camels, or camp in the desert under the stars.
• Best Time to Visit
  The best time for dune bashing is from November to March because the weather is cooler. It’s also great to do a sunset tour because the sky turns beautiful colors, making the experience even more special.
• Cost & Booking Information
  The cost of dune bashing is around AED 150-350 (about $40-$100) per person, depending on the package you choose. You can book through tour companies like Platinum Heritage or Arabian Adventures.
• Insider Tips
  It’s a good idea not to eat a heavy meal before the ride to avoid feeling sick. Wear sunglasses and sunscreen, as the desert sun can be very strong.

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Jet skiing in Dubai is an exciting way to explore the Arabian Gulf while speeding across the water. If you love water sports and want to see Dubai from a different angle, jet skiing at JBR Beach is a must. 

• What to Expect
  You’ll get on a powerful jet ski and zoom along the coastline of Dubai, passing famous landmarks like the Burj Al Arab, Atlantis The Palm, and Ain Dubai. The ride is full of fun, with the wind in your face and amazing views all around you. You can rent the jet ski for 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on how much time you want to spend on the water.
• Best Time to Visit
  The best time for jet skiing is in the morning, from 8 AM to 11 AM. This is when the water is calm, and the weather is cooler. The ideal months are from October to May, as the temperatures are more comfortable.
• Cost & Booking Information
  A 30-minute jet ski ride starts at AED 250 (about $68). You can rent jet skis at JBR Beach, Dubai Marina, and Jumeirah Beach.
• Insider Tips
  Make sure to bring a waterproof pouch for your phone if you want to take pictures. Always check that the operator provides safety gear and gives a briefing before you start. Wear light clothes that dry quickly for comfort.

If you’re looking for a peaceful and breathtaking adventure, a hot air balloon ride over the desert is perfect. It’s a great way to see the Dubai Desert and skycrappers from above and spot wildlife like Arabian oryx and gazelles.

• What to Expect
  During the ride, you’ll float high above the desert, enjoying panoramic views of the golden sand dunes below. The hot air balloon ride lasts around 60 minutes, and you’ll also have the chance to enjoy a traditional Bedouin breakfast after landing. Some tours even offer optional activities like falconry displays and desert safaris.
• Best Time to Visit
  The best time to go is between September and May, when the skies are clear and the temperatures are cooler. The balloon usually takes off at dawn, so you’ll get to see the beautiful desert sunrise.
• Cost & Booking Information
  A hot air balloon ride starts at AED 1,250 (around $340) per person. You can book a ride through trusted companies like Balloon Adventures Dubai.
• Insider Tips
  Dress in layers because it can be chilly in the early morning. Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views from above. Arrive at least 45 minutes early for the pre-flight briefing.

Scuba diving in Dubai’s clear waters is a great way to explore the underwater world. You’ll have the chance to see colorful fish, sea turtles, and even sunken wrecks. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced diver, this is an exciting way to spend time in Dubai.

• What to Expect
  If you’re new to diving, you can take a short training session before your dive. If you’re certified, you can explore the underwater world at your own pace. You’ll see tropical fish, stingrays, and other marine life as you dive around artificial reefs. Some spots even have sunken wrecks that you can explore.
• Best Time to Visit
  The best time for diving is from October to April when the water visibility is clear. Morning dives are usually calmer, making it easier to enjoy the experience.
• Cost & Booking Information
  A discovery dive starts at AED 400 (about $110) per person. You can book dives at places like Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Marina, and the Atlantis Dive Centre.
• Insider Tips
  It’s important not to fly within 24 hours before or after diving to stay safe. Book in advance, especially during busy times, and consider booking an underwater photography package to capture your dive.

Flyboarding is an exciting water sport where you wear a jet-powered board that lifts you above the water. It’s one of the thrilling things to do in Dubai for anyone looking for an adventurous way to play on the water.

• What to Expect
  During a flyboarding session, you will be propelled up 10 to 15 feet above the water by powerful jets. You’ll have an instructor with you, guiding you through the process. The experience is exciting, and you get to hover and fly above the water like a superhero! Sessions last between 30 minutes to an hour.
• Best Time to Visit
  The best time for flyboarding is from October to April when the weather is cooler. Early morning or evening sessions are the best because you can avoid the intense heat of midday.
• Cost & Booking Information
  Flyboarding sessions start from AED 300 (about $82) per session. You can book flyboarding experiences at places like Dubai Marina, JBR Beach, and Jumeirah Beach.
• Insider Tips
  Wear a swimsuit and bring a towel afterward. Listen carefully to the instructor’s tips for balancing and controlling your movements. Be sure to book your session online, especially if you want a discount on group bookings.

Dubai is known for its hot weather, but did you know you can go skiing indoors? At Ski Dubai, located inside the Mall of the Emirates, you can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and other winter activities, all while staying cool. 

• What to Expect
  Ski Dubai offers five ski slopes with different levels of difficulty, so both beginners and experienced skiers can enjoy the fun. You can also try snowboarding, tobogganing, or even meet real penguins! If you want to relax, there is a snow cinema where you can watch movies in the cold. It’s like stepping into a snowy world in the middle of the desert. 
• Best Time to Visit
  Ski Dubai is open year-round, but weekdays are usually less crowded, so it's easier to enjoy the snow without long waits. Early mornings are the best time to visit as the snow conditions are fresh, and the slopes are less busy.
• Cost & Booking Information
  The basic entry fee starts from AED 220 (about $60). You can also budget-friendly packages for ski lessons or snowboarding if you want to learn.
• Insider Tips
  Ski Dubai provides jackets, boots, and gloves, but it’s a good idea to bring your own gloves for hygiene. Try to avoid weekends if you want to skip the long lines, and be sure to book your tickets online to get the best deals.

If you love thrilling excursions, the XLine Dubai zipline is one of the top things to do in Dubai. It’s the longest urban zipline in the world, offering an exciting ride over Dubai Marina at speeds up to 80 km/h.

• What to Expect
  The zipline ride is 1 km long and starts from a height of 170 meters. You’ll zoom through the air, enjoying amazing views of Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Marina, and Ain Dubai. It’s a thrilling experience, and you can even ride together with a friend or loved one on a tandem zipline.
• Best Time to Visit
  The best time to zipline is from October to April when the weather is cooler and the views are clearer. Sunset slots offer the most spectacular views as the city lights up.
• Cost & Booking Information
  The cost starts from AED 650 (about $177) per person. You can book your spot online at XLine Dubai by XDubai.
• Insider Tips
  Wear comfortable clothing and closed shoes to make the ride more enjoyable. If you want to record your experience, bring a GoPro or rent one from the operator. Be sure to arrive at least 30 minutes early for safety instructions.

Camel riding is a fun and traditional way to explore Dubai’s desert. Riding a camel through the golden sand dunes will make you feel like you’ve stepped into the past, experiencing a Bedouin-style journey.

• What to Expect
  A camel ride lasts around 45 minutes, where you’ll have a guide who will show you the way through the desert. You can choose to ride during the sunset or sunrise, making the experience even more special. Some tours also offer other activities like sand boarding or a BBQ dinner in the desert.
• Best Time to Visit
  The best time to go camel riding is from November to March when the weather is cooler. Early morning or evening rides are ideal because the temperature is much lower than at midday.
• Cost & Booking Information
  Camel rides start at AED 150 (around $40) per person. You can book your camel ride through companies like Platinum Heritage, Arabian Adventures, and Desert Safari Dubai.
• Insider Tips
  Wear comfortable clothing, and bring a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Avoid carrying heavy backpacks for a more balanced ride. If you want a private experience, you can choose a private tour instead of a group ride.

Kayaking at Hatta Dam is a peaceful and family-friendly way to enjoy Dubai’s natural beauty. The calm waters and stunning mountains make it an unforgettable experience.

• What to Expect
  You can rent single or double kayaks and paddle across the clear waters of the Hatta Dam. The calm surroundings make it a perfect place to relax, take photos, and enjoy nature. If you like, you can also try paddleboarding or water biking.
• Best Time to Visit
  The best time to visit is between October and April when the weather is cooler and the water is calm. Mornings are the best time to kayak because the winds are lighter, and you can enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
• Cost & Booking Information
  Kayaking starts at AED 60 (about $16) per person. You can rent kayaks at the Hatta Kayak rental center.
• Insider Tips
  Make sure to bring a waterproof phone pouch to keep your phone safe while paddling. Arrive early to get the best kayak options, especially during the busy season. You can also combine your kayaking trip with a hiking or biking adventure in Hatta for a full day of outdoor fun.

Sandboarding is among fun and thrilling things to do in Dubai in the desert, where you slide down sand dunes on a board, just like snowboarding on snow. 

• What to Expect
  You’ll be given a sandboard, and then you can ride down the golden sand dunes of Dubai’s desert. You don’t need any experience to try sandboarding, and it’s great for beginners. It can also be added to a desert safari, where you can enjoy other activities like camel riding or quad biking.
• Best Time to Visit
  The best time to try sandboarding is from November to March when the weather is cooler. It’s best to go early in the morning or later in the evening to avoid the midday heat.
• Cost & Booking Information
  Prices for sandboarding start from AED 200 (around $55) per person. You can book sandboarding tours with local tour companies like Arabian Adventures or Platinum Heritage.
• Insider Tips
  Wear light, comfortable clothing and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Bring a GoPro head mount for action shots while sandboarding. You can also book a combo tour to try multiple desert activities at once and save money!

Dubai’s coastline offers amazing opportunities for deep-sea fishing. Whether you’re an experienced angler or a beginner, fishing in the Arabian Gulf is a fun way to enjoy the ocean and try to catch big fish like barracuda, kingfish, and even sharks. 

• What to Expect
  On a fishing trip, you’ll head out on a private or shared boat with a guide. You’ll fish for several hours and have the chance to catch and release fish or even take home your catch. The waters around Dubai are home to many different fish species, so it’s always an exciting experience.
• Best Time to Visit
  The best time to go deep-sea fishing is from October to May when the weather is cooler, and the fish are more active. Early morning and late afternoon trips are ideal because the fish are more likely to bite during these times.
• Cost & Booking Information
  Fishing trips start from AED 1,500 (around $410) for a boat that can accommodate up to 6 people. You can book your trip through companies like Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Fishing Harbour.
• Insider Tips
  Wear a hat and sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun. If you get motion sickness, bring motion sickness pills. For a more exclusive experience, book a private boat. Some trips offer a BBQ option, where you can cook and eat the fish you catch.

If you’ve ever dreamed of dining while floating high in the sky, Dinner in the Sky Dubai is counted among the must do things in Dubai. Enjoy a gourmet meal while being lifted 50 meters above the ground, with breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline.

• What to Expect
  During this 90-minute dining experience, you’ll be securely strapped into a seat while the table is lifted into the air. You’ll enjoy a multi-course meal prepared by top chefs as you gaze at the stunning views of the Burj Al Arab, Ain Dubai, and the Palm Jumeirah. It’s an unforgettable way to experience dining with a view. 
• Best Time to Visit
  Dinner in the Sky is available year-round, but sunset or nighttime slots offer the best views of the city. The sunset experience is especially beautiful, as the sky changes colors.
• Cost & Booking Information
  The price starts from AED 599 (around $165) per person. You can book your experience via the official Dinner in the Sky website.
• Insider Tips
  Make sure to choose a sunset slot for amazing views. Don’t wear loose shoes or accessories, as they could fall. Dinner in the Sky is perfect for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.

Get a bird’s-eye view of Dubai’s iconic landmarks with a thrilling helicopter ride. This short flight offers amazing views of the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, The Palm, and more. It’s one of the best ways to see the entire city from above. 

• What to Expect
  The helicopter ride lasts between 12 to 25 minutes, depending on the tour you choose. You’ll fly over Dubai’s famous landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and The World Islands. The views are incredible, and you’ll get to take some amazing photos from the sky.
• Best Time to Visit
  Early morning flights are the best because the skies are clearer, and the lighting is perfect for photos. It’s also a bit cooler in the morning, so you’ll be more comfortable.
• Cost & Booking Information
  Prices start from AED 675 (about $184) per person. You can book your flight with companies like HeliDubai and Falcon Aviation.
• Insider Tips
  Wear dark clothing to reduce glare from the windows and get better photos. The 25-minute ride offers a full city tour, which is worth it for the best views. Be sure to book your ride in advance because slots can sell out quickly.

If you want to see Dubai’s coastline in style, going on a luxury yacht cruise is one of the top things to do in Dubai. Whether you choose a morning, sunset, or nighttime cruise, you’ll enjoy VIP treatment and incredible views of the sea and city skyline.

• What to Expect
  On a luxury yacht cruise, you’ll sail along Dubai’s stunning coastline while enjoying food, drinks, and music on board. You may also have the chance to swim in the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf or take a jet ski ride. These cruises are relaxing and perfect for a special day out with friends or family.
• Best Time to Visit
  The best time to go on a luxury yacht cruise is from October to April when the weather is cooler. Sunset cruises are especially popular for the most scenic views of the city as the sun sets behind the skyline.
• Cost & Booking Information
  Prices start at AED 1,200 (about $325) per hour for a private yacht. You can book cruises at places like Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah.
• Insider Tips
  Bring swimsuits and towels if you plan to swim. If you’re booking a private yacht, you can customize your itinerary to make your cruise even more special. A sunset cruise offers the best views of the city, so consider booking that time slot for a truly magical experience!

Skydiving over The Palm Jumeirah is one of the most thrilling experiences you can have in Dubai. Free Falling from 13,000 feet, you’ll get to enjoy incredible views of Dubai’s iconic Palm-shaped island, the city’s stunning skyline and attractions. 

• What to Expect
  You’ll experience a 60-second freefall at speeds of up to 200 km/h, followed by a peaceful parachute ride over the Palm Jumeirah. This thrilling experience is done with an experienced instructor, and you’ll even get photos and videos to remember the adventure.
• Best Time to Visit
  Skydiving is best from October to April, as the weather is cooler, and the sky is clear for the best views. Morning slots offer calm winds, making your jump even smoother.
• Cost & Booking Information
  Prices for a tandem skydive start at AED 2,299 (about $625) per person. You can book online through Skydive Dubai.
• Insider Tips
  Wear comfortable sportswear and sneakers for your jump. Arrive at least one hour early to complete the briefing and paperwork. For the best sky visibility, opt for early morning slots.

A dhow cruise is a peaceful way to experience Dubai’s waterways and is one of the top things to do in Dubai. A traditional wooden boat, known as a dhow, takes you on a relaxing cruise while you enjoy a delicious dinner and live entertainment. You can choose to cruise along the historic Dubai Creek or the must-see Dubai Marina, depending on the view you prefer.

• What to Expect
  During the 2-hour cruise, you’ll enjoy a buffet dinner while relaxing on the dhow. The cruise includes live performances like the traditional Tanoura dance and Arabic music, which adds to the unique experience. The Dubai Creek cruise offers views of old Dubai, while the Dubai Marina cruise showcases the city’s modern skyline and luxurious buildings.
• Best Time to Visit
  Dhow cruises are available year-round, but evening cruises are the best. The lights of the city create a magical atmosphere as you enjoy your meal on the water.
• Cost & Booking Information
  Prices start from AED 150 (about $40) per person. You can book through local tour operators like Xclusive Yachts and Dhow Cruise Dubai.
• Insider Tips
  If you prefer a modern skyline view, choose the Dubai Marina cruise. For the best seats, book early and request a spot at the front of the boat. Vegetarian meal options are available, so let the staff know in advance if you have dietary preferences.

For those seeking an extreme adventure, bungee jumping at Gravity Zone Dubai is one of the best things to do in Dubai. This exciting activity lets you take a 50-meter leap off a platform, giving you an adrenaline rush and an unforgettable experience.

• What to Expect
  You will jump from a platform at a height of 50 meters, either solo or with a tandem partner. The bungee cord will safely pull you back up after the jump. You can capture this thrilling moment with high-definition video recording, so you can remember your brave leap forever.
• Best Time to Visit
  Gravity Zone is open year-round, but evening slots are ideal because the view of the city lights makes the experience even more exciting.
• Cost & Booking Information
  Bungee jumping prices start from AED 399 (about $110) per jump. You can book your jump through Gravity Zone Dubai.
• Insider Tips
  Avoid eating a heavy meal before the jump to feel more comfortable. Make sure to wear secure clothing and sneakers for safety. If it’s your first time, consider opting for a tandem jump for extra comfort. You’ll also get an opportunity to record the jump with a GoPro for the ultimate memory!