Dubai is a city like no other, literally emerging from the desert. This city has so many exciting things to do, from urban experiences to desert encounters and everything in between. Please follow me Instagram You know I had the most amazing week in Dubai. Truly, I could never get bored with this city! If you’re looking for something special, here are some of the most unique activities you can do in Dubai.
things to do in dubai
1. Ride across the desert in a hot air balloon
There are only so many experiences that leave me speechless. One example is the pink sunrise over the ripples of the dunes in the Dubai desert. It’s worth waking up to a 4 a.m. alarm. As you glide over the desert, you’ll be able to experience the peaceful tranquility of the desert below.
2. Visit the world’s only 7-star hotel
Well, technically that’s not the case, but once you step into the Burj Al Arab, it’s easy to see why and how it earned its reputation as the world’s only 7-star hotel. Of course, this kind of luxury doesn’t come cheap. So, if you want to get some exercise, book a spa appointment and enjoy the spa facilities before and after your treatment. Discovering this property on your way up to the 18th floor is a real bonus.
3. Enjoy the view from the world’s tallest building
Burj Khalifa is currently the tallest building in the world and offers views like no other. Tickets to the top sell out days in advance, so be sure to book in advance. The view from the top will never be the same again. On a clear day you can see the entire city, but on a cloudy day you’ll be left in the clouds (literally!).
4. Visit the Lost Room
If you’re a marine wildlife lover, Dubai has plenty to offer. In addition to the Dubai Mall Aquarium, the Atlantis Hotel, located at the tip of Dubai’s iconic palm trees, is also home to the Lost Chamber.
5. Enjoy Arabic Mezze
My favorite aspect of traveling to different countries and cultures is almost always experiencing food, and Arabic food is no exception. Dubai may be a mecca for cuisines from around the world, but it’s still traditional Arabian mezze that you’ll enjoy here. Think falafel, hummus, tabbouleh, fattoush salad, and more.
6. 1948 Land Rover Dune Bash
One of the most popular activities in Dubai is visiting the desert and escaping the hustle and bustle of the city. There are many companies offering safaris of varying levels, but none come close to the experience offered at Platinum Heritage. Buckle up and race through the dunes in a 1948 Land Rover, spotting desert wildlife along the way.
7. Fly over the iconic Dubai Palm
Palm trees are a symbol of Dubai, and as you might imagine, every part of them is impressive. Hop aboard a helicopter and fly above the palm trees for the best view.
8. Smell the aromas of exotic spices at Dubai Spice Souk
For even more culture and history than central Dubai, head to Old Dubai and visit the local spice market and nearby Gold Souk. Sure, this is made for tourists (every keychain you can imagine), but it’s a great experience if you’re looking for the old side of Dubai.
9. Indoor skiing at Ski Dubai
Desert skiing may not be the first activity that comes to mind when visiting the scorching heat of the Arabian desert, but it’s still an option. Inside the Mall of the Emirates maze is Ski Dubai, a fully man-made indoor ski resort. Although there’s only one slope (you can stop along the way), it’s a great activity if you want to burn off some energy and experience skiing indoors.
10. Experience the iconic Atlantis The Palm
There is no hotel in Dubai as classic and iconic as Atlantis. This impressive structure has much to offer Dubai visitors, including not just a hotel but its own aqua adventure park, a variety of restaurants, a spa and its own private beach.
11. Swim in the Four Seasons glass pool
I love great hotel pools. If pictures can do it justice, the Four Seasons DIFC (Dubai International Financial Center) is one of my favorites of all time. This glass pool is open to hotel guests and offers one of the most beautiful views (in my opinion!) of Dubai’s Clock Tower.
12. Encounter an oryx and a gazelle in the desert
Last but not least, you can’t come to Dubai without seeing some unique wildlife. Oryx and gazelles are the most common and easiest to find in the desert (especially oryx because of their color), but if you’re lucky you’ll find all kinds of desert animals.