15 of the best things to do in Dubai

1. Visit the world’s tallest building

Dubai likes to do things bigger and better, so start your holiday at the epitome of it all: the Burj Khalifa.

Soaring 828m (2,717ft) into the sky, it’s the world’s tallest building. For the best views, book tickets to At The Top, Burj Khalifa SKY, where you’ll get a personalised tour of the observation deck and outdoor terrace on Level 148.

You can also take in the vista while sipping signature refreshments in the SKY Lounge, or get an adrenaline rush on the Level 125 observation deck. Here, the brave-hearted can walk over a glass floor with a twist – as you gaze at the cityscape below, the glass will appear to crack under your feet!

2. See the spectacle of Dubai Fountain

If you thought the Burj Khalifa was impressive, wait until you see the Dubai Fountain. Not to be outdone by its gigantic neighbour, the fountain shoots a whopping 22,000 gallons of water into the sky, reaching heights of 150m (500ft).

Every 30 minutes between 6pm and 11pm, the fountain bursts into life with captivating water sprays, illuminated by dazzling lights and dancing in time to pop tunes to create one of the best things to do in Dubai.

For an even closer look, you can stroll along the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk that floats atop the Burj Lake or join a fountain lake ride.

3. Indulge at the opulent hotels

Dubai is synonymous with glitz and glamour and nowhere is this more apparent than in its luxurious hotels. One of its most famous is the five-star Burj Al Arab Jumeriah. Designed to look like a billowing sail, it’s a landmark on the Dubai skyline.

Even if you’re not staying in one of its luxe suites, you can still get a taste of its opulence at one of its outstanding restaurants including Al Iwan, or grab a window seat and take afternoon tea at the Skyview Lounge.

The five-star St. Regis Hotel in the Palm Tower is equally as glamorous. Its trump card? The Aura Skypool. Taking a dip in the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool is a bucket list activity in Dubai.

4. Explore Old Dubai

Discover more about Dubai’s rich culture by exploring the Al Fahidi Historic District. Take an abra (a traditional wooden boat) across Dubai Creek and you’ll feel a world away from the glitz and glamour of the main tourist zone.

Stop by The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding to find out about the history of the city and what life was like in times gone by. Then, catapult back into the now with a visit to Dubai’s fabulously buzzy souks.

Gaze at the glittering displays as you wander through the famous Gold Souk; marvel at the beautiful array of silks and embroidered fabrics on offer at the Textile Souk; and for a colourful and aromatic sensory experience, head to Dubai’s Spice Souk. Make your way around the stalls and chat to the vendors who’ll give you ideas on how you can use the exotic spices at home.

5. Hit the slopes at Ski Dubai

Looking for something different to do in Dubai? How about skiing? While the temperatures are soaring outside, you can get togged up in skiwear and hit the slopes at the indoor winter wonderland that is Ski Dubai.

You’ll find five slopes, including the world’s first indoor black run, plus a snow park, where you can go tobogganing, explore a beautiful indoor ice cave and make snowmen.

Afterwards, in true Alpine style, sip hot chocolate at the Avalanche Café’s outdoor terrace. Only in Dubai…

6. Take a desert safari

Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and take a trip into the dramatic landscape of the Arabian Desert. Enjoy a ride in a 4x4 over the dunes, try your hand at sandboarding and take a camel ride across the sands.

For a truly magical experience, book an unforgettable stay at the ultra-luxe Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa. Unwind in the tranquil resort, set among the lush palm groves of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, as you watch the spectacular sunset. And what better way to end the day than dinner under the stars?

7. Enjoy watersports at Kite Beach

Dubai is world-famous for its beautiful beaches. Long stretches of pristine sands hug the coastline, where some of the emirate’s best activities await. If you enjoy taking part in watersports as well as lazing on a lounger, make a beeline for Kite Beach – a favourite with kite surfers.

Here, you can also try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking and beach volleyball or take it up a notch with a spot of parasailing. You’ll even get unparalleled views of the city.

8. Visit Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Housing a dazzling array of marine species, including over 300 sharks and rays, a trip to Dubai Aquarium is a top thing to do in Dubai. If you’re feeling adventurous, book a Shark Dive to get within inches of these great beasts.

Meanwhile, the Underwater Zoo provides an interactive approach to educating visitors about the ecology and sustainability of marine life. You’ll journey through three ecological zones: rainforest, rocky shore and living oceans, and you’ll meet fascinating creatures including lively otters and adorable penguins along the way.

Don’t miss your chance to see ‘King Croc’, one of the largest crocodiles in the world.

9. Experience thrilling slides at a water park

Want to get your adrenaline pumping? Visit Aquaventure Waterpark and take on its exhilarating slides.

You’ll plunge nine storeys as you speed down the near-vertical drop of the Leap of Faith slide, and on the Shark Attack, you’ll end in an underwater shark-filled lagoon – the fibreglass tunnel means you’ll enjoy 360-degree views. Afterwards, relax by taking a trip in Dubai’s longest lazy river.

Another classic Dubai waterpark is Wild Wadi, where you’ll find wave pools, surf simulators and speed slides. If you prefer to stay dry, pitch up in a private cabana and let the kids tire themselves out.

10. Take the kids to a theme park

You don’t need to worry about bad weather spoiling a family day out at a theme park when you’re in Dubai.

Younger children will adore Legoland Dubai, which is packed with rides and attractions that include the Dragon’s Apprentice rollercoaster and the relaxing ‘Boating School’, where children get to steer their own Lego boat. Admire the awesome creations made out of Lego in Miniland then let kids cool off in the Joker Soaker water playground.

Meanwhile, at IMG Worlds of Adventure, Marvel and Cartoon Network characters are brought to life with state-of-the-art rides. It spans an area of more than 28 football pitches, so make sure you wear comfy shoes!

11. Spend a day at Dubai Marina

One of the city’s liveliest neighbourhoods is Dubai Marina.

Take a stroll along Marina Walk, a 7km-long (4.3 miles) palm tree-lined promenade before indulging in some serious retail therapy at Dubai Marina Mall. Covering more than one million square metres, it’s the world’s largest shopping complex and has everything from designer outlets to a cinema.

To refuel, dine al fresco at one of the fabulous restaurants on the waterfront and marvel at the magnificent yachts moored in the marina with the city’s skyline towering behind.

For something a little more pulse-raising, whizz over the marina on the XLine – the world’s largest urban zipline.

12. Skydive over Palm Jumeirah

As far as Dubai activities go, skydiving over Palm Jumeirah is as iconic as it gets. Not only will you get the thrill of a lifetime as you freefall from heights of up to 3,900m (13,000ft), you’ll get to see The Palm and Dubai’s stunning skyline in all its glory.

Skydive Dubai offers a fantastic range of experiences with a team of qualified instructors. First-timers can book a tandem skydive to jump with an instructor, or there’s a skydiving school for those looking to practise solo jumps. Book your tickets in advance.

13. Take the plunge at Deep Dive Dubai

For a different kind of diving adventure, head beneath the water at Deep Dive Dubai. Boasting the world’s deepest diving pool, it will take your Dubai holiday itinerary to a new level – quite literally, at 60m (196ft) deep.

Styled as a sunken city, there’s plenty to discover among the abandoned streets, including cars, motorbikes and an old ‘games room’. Even better? The water is kept at a toasty 30C so diving conditions are always at their best.

14. Snap a pic of the Dubai Frame

It’s hard to miss the Dubai Frame. Standing 150m-tall (492ft), it’s one of the city’s most recognisable landmarks, with a prime position in Zabeel Park.

Overlooking both the historic district in the north and the modern city in the south, it symbolises harmony between Dubai’s two sides.

Once you’ve had an obligatory photo beneath the structure, take the elevator to the top for spectacular city views. While it’s not for the faint-hearted, the glass bridge that connects the two towers will have you feeling like you’re walking on air.

15. Visit the Jumeirah Mosque

Combine sightseeing and culture with a trip to Jumeirah Mosque. Its sand-yellow stone exterior, complete with twin minarets and a central dome, is as beautiful as its interior, which can hold up to 1,200 people.

Its ‘Open Doors, Open Minds’ policy means all are welcome to visit the mosque, and guided tours run daily at 10am and 2pm (except Fridays).

Remember that this is a place of worship, so visitors are expected to act respectfully and women are asked to cover both their head and shoulders.