Summary: The UAE offers an incredible range of things to do, catering to various interests and preferences. There is something for everyone in this vibrant city. Make sure to include these activities in your itinerary for a memorable trip to the UAE.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an amazing and incredible destination to visit! The country is famous for its tall buildings, fancy shopping malls, and exciting desert adventures. But there’s way more to see and do than that! No matter if it’s your first time visiting or you’ve been there numerous times before, the UAE is certain to leave a lasting mark.
Top 10 Things to Do in UAE
I along with my friends spent several days in the United Arab Emirates. We all wanted to see the “tallest building in the world” – the Burj Khalifa in Dubai. While in Dubai, we stayed at this lovely hotel known as Palm Beach. We went on a desert safari and tried many delicious foods during our stay. Also, we visited Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. We had a wonderful seven-day trip and it is always a pleasure to have memories like these. What follows is your definitive list of the top 10 things you absolutely must do when in the UAE:
Admire Burj Khalifa
Imagine reaching for the skies! Yes, that’s what I felt when I visited Burj Khalifa for the first time. It is the world’s tallest building, standing at around 828 meters (2,717 feet).
You get the opportunity to witness breathtaking scenic views of the entire city beneath you from the Burj Khalifa. From the observation deck, you can admire the iconic Palm Jumeirah, the Arabian Gulf, and the vast desert landscape stretching towards the horizon. Visiting Burj Khalida is a truly unforgettable experience that will leave you speechless.
Prices: Tickets start around AED 130 for adults and AED 90 for children. There are different levels you can visit, with higher levels costing more.
Other Information: The Burj Khalifa is open every day. Be sure to book your tickets online in advance, especially during peak season.
Watch the Camel Racing
One of my favorite things to do was to step back in time and fully immerse myself in a distinctive Emirati custom – camel racing. That’s right, camel racing. In my view, you should not miss out on this old-fashioned camel racing, a cherished sport in the UAE.
Just see the energy of the spectators and be immersed in the abundant cultural history of the UAE. Sounds incredible, right? You can even tour a camel breeding farm and discover the intriguing history and care of these symbolic creatures.
Prices: Camel races are usually free to watch, but there might be a fee to enter a race track with seating. Camel farm tours can vary in price but expect to pay around AED 90-230.
Other Information: Camel races are typically held on Fridays during the winter months (November to March). Check online for specific race schedules.
Visit the Ferrari World
Located on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World is a paradise for car enthusiasts and thrill-seekers alike. It is the world’s first Ferrari-branded theme park, home to thrilling rides, racing simulators, and interactive displays.
In short, this theme park revolves around luxurious cars and racing. You can attempt racing games, evaluate your driving abilities, and view fascinating displays regarding Ferraris.
Prices: Tickets to Ferrari World start around AED 315 for adults and AED 230 for children.
Other Information: Ferrari World is open daily and is a great place to spend a whole day. Wear comfortable shoes and expect a huge crowd, especially on weekends.
Shop at the Dubai Mall
The Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall in the world, and I’m not exaggerating! It’s an enormous complex filled with all kinds of stores, from high-end fashion boutiques to electronics outlets. There are over 1,200 retail stores offering everything from global luxury brands to local specialties, as well as entertainment like an indoor ice rink. With so much shopping and amenities, the Dubai Mall is a shopaholic’s dream come true.
There’s even a massive aquarium and underwater zoo inside where you can observe all sorts of fish and marine life! The mall basically has it all – shopping, dining, entertainment – making it a must-visit destination in Dubai.
Prices: Shopping prices vary depending on the store, but there are options for all budgets. Entrance to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo costs around AED 130 for adults and AED 90 for children.
Other Information: The Dubai Mall is open daily and has lots of restaurants and cafes to choose from. It can get very crowded, so be prepared for lots of people.
Play with Snow in the Desert at Ski Dubai
Hard to believe, but skiing in Dubai is possible! To beat the desert heat and feel the snow, you can check out Ski Dubai. This indoor ski resort inside a huge mall has slopes for skiers of any ability. Snowboarding, building snowmen, and family snowball fights are also options here.
Ski Dubai provides a fun time for visitors both young and old. I recall going to Apres-ski, a comfy cafe at Ski Dubai, where I enjoyed their hot chocolate.
Prices: A basic ski experience at Ski Dubai, including equipment rental, starts around AED 315 for adults and AED 230 for children.
Other Information: Ski Dubai is open daily. Be sure to wear warm clothes, even though you’re indoors.
Dive into Adventure at Aquaventure Waterpark
Aquaventure Waterpark is the largest waterpark in Dubai. You can experience thrilling slides like Aquaconda, which is the longest water slide in the world or unwind on a lazy river float.
The park also provides many other interactive activities, such as wave pools, water cannons, and waterfalls. Additionally, you can go snorkeling or scuba diving in the shark lagoon.
Prices: Tickets to Aquaventure Waterpark start around AED 290 for adults and AED 210 for children.
Other Information: Aquaventure Waterpark is open daily and is a great place to cool off and have a fun-filled day with the family. Wear sunscreen and a swimsuit, and be prepared for crowds, especially during peak season.
Live Like Royalty at Madinat Jumeirah
Madinat Jumeirah is a must-visit if you desire genuine luxury in the UAE. This incredible resort complex is made after a traditional Arabian town. You can browse the various boutiques and eateries, or take a customary wooden boat ride for a distinctive viewpoint.
I loved unwinding on the stunning beaches, and the food was also superb. For additional excitement, you can visit Wild Wadi Waterpark.
Prices: Entrance to Madinat Jumeirah is free, although there will be costs for specific activities like waterpark entry, dining, or boat rides. Prices vary depending on the chosen experience.
Other Information: Madinat Jumeirah is a great place to soak up the luxurious atmosphere and experience exceptional hospitality.
Embrace Cultures at Global Village
Global Village is a large cultural park with pavilions representing countries from around the world. You can discover traditional food, crafts, and live shows. I actually bought many one-of-a-kind souvenirs here, in addition to sampling some tasty international food.
Essentially, Global Village has a multicultural atmosphere where you can encounter the cultures, cuisines, and traditions of more than 90 countries all in one place.
Prices: Entrance to Global Village costs around AED 15 for adults and is free for children below 3 years old. There may be additional costs for specific experiences.
Other Information: It’s open seasonally, typically from November to April, so be sure to check the opening dates before your visit.
Savor Fresh Seafood Delights at Mina Zayed Fish Market
If seafood is something you enjoy eating, the Mina Zayed Fish Market should be on your must-visit list. This traditional fish market has an extensive selection of just-caught seafood available, ranging from fish and shrimp to lobster and crab.
You can even pick out your own seafood and have it cooked to perfection right at one of the on-site restaurants for a mouthwatering, authentic seafood dining experience.
Prices: Prices vary depending on the type and quantity of seafood you choose. Generally, you can expect a fresh seafood meal to be affordable compared to many Dubai restaurants.
Other Info: Be prepared to bargain for the best prices and enjoy the lively market atmosphere.
Explore the Underwater World at The National Aquarium
If you enjoy being in the water, you should check out The National Aquarium at Al Boom Marine Village. There you can see different marine environments, including coral reefs and the many fish, sharks, and other ocean animals that live there.
The National Aquarium has hands-on exhibits, informative talks, and behind-the-scenes tours so you can really immerse yourself in the underwater world.
Prices: Entrance to The National Aquarium costs around AED 110 for adults and AED 85 for children.
Other Info: The National Aquarium is a great place to learn about the marine life of the Arabian Gulf and the importance of ocean conservation. It’s perfect for families with children or anyone fascinated by the underwater world.
Things Not to Do in UAE
Every country has its unique culture and own customs, and the UAE (United Arab Emirates) is no exception. While it’s famous for its luxurious hotels and vast deserts, there are also some cultural norms to keep in mind to ensure a smooth and respectful visit. Here’s a quick guide on what not to do to make the most of your amazing UAE experience!
1. While holding hands might be acceptable, avoid displays like kissing or hugging in public. These can be seen as offensive and could lead to adverse outcomes.
2. Don’t disrespect Islamic traditions. Dress modestly, especially when visiting mosques or religious areas. Shoulders and knees should be covered for both men and women.
3. Don’t take photos of people without permission. It’s always polite to ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially locals or women in traditional dress.
4. Alcohol consumption is restricted to licensed venues like hotel bars and clubs. Drinking in public places is strictly prohibited.
5. The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy on drugs. Possession or use of even small quantities can lead to severe penalties, including imprisonment.
6. Avoid loud noises, rude gestures, or any conduct considered disrespectful towards locals.
7. Use designated crosswalks and be vigilant when crossing streets, especially outside major cities.
8. Photography of certain government buildings and military sites is prohibited. Be aware of any signs restricting photography.
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