Things to Do in Dubai: Adventures for Family

Dubai is a city like no other. With its extravagant skyline and a vision to grow dramatically in the future, Dubai attracts thousands of tourists and has quickly become one of the most visited cities across the globe. The luxurious lifestyle combined with the hospitality of the locals certainly is a cherry on top. There is a lot to do in Dubai; let’s learn more about fun things to do in Dubai! 

TOP of Dubai

Dubai is surrounded with several landmarks and wonders which have become the identity of the city itself. From shopping to architectural designs, Dubai has it all, and it is unlike any other. Of course, there are lots of things to do in Dubai for couples and individuals.

Burj Khalifa: The Most Astounding Structure Built With Modern Architecture

Undoubtedly, the Burj Khalifa is the key attraction in Dubai. With a measurement of 2,717 feet, it is the tallest structured building in Dubai and across the globe. When one enters this massive and awe-inspiring structure, it is an obvious irrefutable reason to understand why it is an attraction in Dubai. 

Guests are allowed to use the elevator to the 124th floor, which has been branded as At The Top and is able to view the town, the desert, and the Gulf Coast. If the 124th floor is not exclusive enough for you, there is a 148th floor that allows patrons to have likings, such as refreshments, while enjoying the 148th-floor view.

The Burj Khalifa has a reputation for being cast in countless movies across the world ever since it was built. With a trip through this structure, one gets a chance to take an uncanny glimpse of the towering skyline that makes the city. The view from up there is stunning, providing a better angle of the city; it becomes mesmerizing, especially when the sun is setting as soft, rich, warm golden light shines on the desert.

Palm Jumeirah: Dubai’s Iconic Man-Made Wonder

The Palm Jumeirah is one of the most famous free things to do in Dubai, and it is one of Dubai’s most breathtaking and ambitious construction projects. The Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island in the shape of a palm tree, is home to some of Dubai’s extravagant hotels and private properties. And for those who love a little glamour in life, a trip to this place means staying at the Atlantis The Palm, which has great restaurants and private beaches.

Highlights include a helicopter tour of the Palm Jumeirah, which has a spectacular view of the island as well as a luxurious overview of the numerous facilities offered such as private beaches. And for the more leisurely type, there’s amazing dining at one of several resorts or a casual stroll on the island’s boardwalk.

Must-Do Sights in Dubai

Surprisingly enough, there are plenty of things to do in Dubai for free. The skyscrapers and resorts are not the only attractions in the city of Dubai. There is a good assortment of attractions that help the visitors appreciate the history, the entertainment, and the culture of the city. 

Dubai Fountain: Where Water and Light Hold a Performance Together 

The Dubai Fountain, which is situated at the foot of the Burj Khalifa, is without a doubt the biggest performative fountain system ever established. It spans more than 275 meters and clears towering heights of above 150 meters, making shows happen every half an hour during the night in the incredible star-lit sky. It is one of the best things to do in Dubai at night.

Combined with the enormous Burj Khalifa and the glitz of the Dubai Mall, witnessing the Dubai Fountain is just breathtaking. A change in the theme always brings new music from classical to modern or even jazz combined with lights, which adds to the thrill.

Food lovers suggest that for close-up views of the fountain, customers can book a table at one of the numerous restaurants that have a view of the fountain or go on a boat ride on Burj Lake. If every understanding remains the same, the fountain show is complimentary, but it’s best advised to come in early so that one does not miss out on great positions.

Dubai Mall: Shop in an Ultimate Style

Positioned adjacent to the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall is renowned as the largest mall in the world in terms of its total area. With more than 1,200 shops, it encompasses a complete range from luxury to affordable retailers. 

But it is not all about shopping at the part-and-parcel megamall – it is an entire amusement center that has a ski slope, indoor ice skating rink, VR park, as well as an underwater world theme park boasting an aquarium filled with more than 33 thousand marine creatures.

Spanning 48.6 metres, The Dubai Aquarium is one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world. This is home to many species including sharks, rays and more. There is even the option of walking through the underwater tunnel which lets the visitors get really close to the sea creatures, and a boat ride over the tank for closer interaction.

Not only shopping and entertainment, but also, dining is another prominent feature in Dubai Mall as it offers an array of restaurants for all price levels and for every taste as well. Once done with window shopping and other activities, having a meal at this aimed place is ideal. This place cannot be called one of the free things to do in Dubai, but you don’t have to spend too much here, if you don’t want to.

Dubai Museum: A Glance to the History of Dubai 

In order to get a better grasp of the integrity and culture of the people of Dubai, the Dubai Museum, which is located in the Al Fahidi Fort, is a must-visit. This museum is located in one of the oldest structures in the region, which has been around since 1787. It is perhaps one of the most popular things to do in Dubai with family.

The exhibits will surprise you as they display the evolution of the city from its humble beginnings as a fishing town into one of the biggest modern cities around the world. The museum displays objects, pictures, models, and maps through which the life of the people inhabiting the Sheikhdom at the time when there was no oil and afterward, the development of Dubai into a central active economic center is represented.

The Al Fahidi Fort, with its mud walls and traditional architectural style, provides a striking contrast to the modern skyscrapers of the city. It is also an ideal place to experience the culture and history of the Emiratis, as it takes you away from the bustling and busy life that is modern Dubai.

Adventures for Family

What about things to do in Dubai with kids? Dubai is quite family oriented with lots to do with kids from fun parks or thrilling rides in water parks to cultural treats. Dubai is a place full of excitement for all ages.

Aquaventure Waterpark: Everything You Need To Have Fun

Aquaventure Waterpark is one of the most favorite waterparks in Palm Atlantis, and it overlooks Dubai. The waterpark has an array of slides and attractions perfect for all ages, from the littlest of the children to the oldest of the grandparents. The park contains everything from heart-racing roller coasters like ‘The Leap of Faith’ that drops you into a lagoon of sharks to graceful swirls in the lazy river.

You can also enjoy the private beaches, swim with dolphins, visit the aquarium and view the underwater wonders of the Atlantan resort. It is an all day activity that can keep the whole family entertained.

Dubai Safari – The True Taste of Desert in The Middle Of Dubai

If you are looking to explore the desert, a Dubai safari is a must. The safari starts with 4×4 dune bashing where the real adventure begins. After this you get to ride camels or sand boards.

A safari experience typically culminates in an immersive Bedouin-style camp built in the middle of the desert’s dunes. Here, families can have a buffet dinner during the shows, which include belly dancing and tanoura dancing. It is indeed a distinct way of witnessing the culture and beauty of the desert and a perfect experience that the family will not forget. 

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: A Family Outing

This is even more so within the Dubai Mall where every family member will equally enjoy a visit to the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Among the attractions at the aquarium are about 33 thousand marine animals comprising sharks, rays, and numerous species of multi-coloured fishes, to mention but a few. Whether children or adults, everyone will gaze in wonder at the enormous glass tank which contains other marine life. It is one of the pretty cheap things to do in Dubai.

You can pass through the Underwater Tunnel, where an amazing 360-degree view of the fish, along with sharks, will envelop you from all sides. If things get boring, you can also try participating in some exciting scuba diving or shark diving within the aquarium.

Travel Tips & Guides for Dubai 

A visit to Dubai brings out the modern and the traditional in a new light. However, a few things can be kept in mind to ensure that your vacation runs smoothly. 

Potential Trips, Best Months to Go to Dubai

• The months of November and April offer a respite from the scorching sun and allow other outdoor activities, suggesting it is the ideal time to visit Dubai. The temperature in these months hovers around, and even exceeds 86°F. If outdoor sightseeing is a top priority for you, then May to September should provide little trouble as the temperatures during these months can surpass 104°F. But still, there are enough things to do in Dubai in summer, it will just be a bit uncomfy.
• We recommend people to respect the customs, however dressing workout clothes or shorts while working out should be fine. Women should cover their knees and shoulders or generally work as part of business etiquette especially when they are at a religious site. 
• Combining a modest dress with any accessory like jewelry is a good idea to attract attention in malls and to feel a little informal on beaches. Depending on the location, women’s swimwear should not be worn outside or even in restaurants.

Currency and Payment Methods

As for currency, the UAE Dirham (AED) is regarded as the official currency in Dubai. The use of credit cards is rampant and the use of ATMs is conveniently available across the city. 

Nonetheless, it is advisable to have some money in your wallet, especially when heading to the markets and the smaller outlets. It is also common to leave a tip after a meal, normally between 10-15%, though it is not a requirement.

Getting Around

The Dubai Metro is among the many efficient and convenient means in terms of the extensive and modern public transportation system that Dubai has in place. The metro also presents an excellent chance to travel between major sites such as Jumeirah Beach, the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall. 

Also, taxis and apps such as Uber and Careem provide a quick solution as well.

Other Attractions Around Dubai

There are enough things to do in Dubai in December or June: it all depends on your preferences and budget.

• Abu Dhabi: Luxury and Culture. Just an hour’s drive from Dubai, Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE. It boasts a rich cultural scene with landmarks like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world’s largest mosques, and the stunning Louvre Abu Dhabi. You can also visit the Yas Marina Circuit if you’re a Formula 1 fan or spend a day at Ferrari World amusement park.
• Sharjah: Capital of Culture. Situated a short distance away from Dubai, Sharjah is quite well known all over the world for its projects aimed at cultural conservation. The city is full of all sorts of fibers as it is home to the Sharjah Arts Museum, the Sharjah Heritage Museum, and other lively places such as the Blue Souk. Unlike the glitz and glamour features of Dubai, the city is more traditional in terms of experience.

Fujairah: Beach Getaway. Fujairah is situated east of the UA’s borders and provides its visitors and tourists lustrous beaches backed up with natural appealing harsh mountains. Having such natural attractions, the region is also quite calm and is suitable for diving, hiking, and few more peaceful beach activities to enjoy.

FAQ

What is Dubai Best Known For?

The luxurious skyline infused with futuristic towers such as Burj Khalifa and artificial islands such as The Palm Jumeirah are among the many reasons which one associates with the city of glamour, Dubai. High end shopping centers, fancy restaurants, Burj Al Arab or even Dubai Fountain are some of the numerous additional items that Dubai has to offer.

What Should You Not Miss When Visiting Dubai?

• Burj Khalifa: get up to the 148th floor for a bird’s eye view of the landscape.
• Dubai Mall: a one-stop shop with restaurants, sea life, and a skating area.
• Desert Safari: rough rides over sand dunes, camel rides, and snacks in the camp.
• Dubai Fountain: the enchanting water shows, courtesy of Dubai’s Burj Khalifa.
• Palm Jumeirah: Don’t forget to take a moment to enjoy the coastal views and the luxury hotels on this famous island.
• Dubai Marina: Sip and dine on the skyscrapers or beach fronts at night while not missing the view.

What Should You Not Wear in Dubai?

There are some things not to do in Dubai, and this list includes dress code issues.

• Revealing Attire: There is no need to wear bra tops and short skirts as they do not consider such dresses as appropriate.
• Swimwear Outdoors: Swimwear is only ideal on beaches or pools.
• Tightened or Sheer Attire: Slacks and pants are encouraged in social gatherings and other places.
• Offensive Designs: Don’t wear clothes that bear hateful messages or graphics.

What Are the Top Things to Do in Dubai?

There are a few most prominent options:

• Desert Safari: Participate in dune bashing, camel riding, and a visit to a Bedouin camp.
• Jumeirah Beach: Enjoy the sights of the Burj Al Arab while relaxing along the beach.
• Helicopter Tour: Get Dubai’s view from another dimension.
• Souks: People who want to purchase spices and gold from the usual markets can visit the souks.