Tours & Activities in Dubai

6 picks in Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Tours & Activities in Dubai

Dubai offers extraordinary experiences ranging from traditional desert safaris to cutting-edge entertainment. These activities showcase both Emirati heritage and the city's innovative entertainment offerings.

Desert Safari
Must See📌 Book Ahead

Desert Safari

The quintessential Dubai experience combines thrilling dune bashing in 4x4 vehicles with cultural activities in traditional Bedouin camps. The adventure includes exhilarating rides over rolling sand dunes, camel riding, sandboarding, and stunning sunset photography opportunities. Evening camps feature henna painting, shisha smoking, traditional costumes for photos, and falcon displays. Entertainment includes belly dancing, Tanoura shows, and fire performances. Dinner buffets serve Arabic and international cuisine under starlit skies. Options range from budget group tours to exclusive private experiences with luxury camps. Morning and overnight desert safaris offer alternative timing for different experiences.

⏱ 6-7 hours (evening)Book Ahead
Dubai Fountain Show
Must See

Dubai Fountain Show

The world's largest choreographed fountain system performs captivating shows with water jets reaching 150 meters high, synchronized to music and lights. Located at the base of Burj Khalifa in the Dubai Mall lake, performances occur every 30 minutes during evenings and afternoon shows on weekends. The fountain uses 22,000 gallons of water and features over 6,600 lights creating mesmerizing visual spectacles. Different musical selections include Arabic classics, contemporary pop, and classical compositions. Viewing areas include Dubai Mall terraces, waterfront promenades, and surrounding restaurants with prime views. The experience is completely free, making it Dubai's most accessible major attraction.

⏱ 30 minutesNo Booking Needed
IMG Worlds of Adventure
Top Pick📌 Book Ahead

IMG Worlds of Adventure

The world's largest indoor theme park spans 1.5 million square feet featuring climate-controlled entertainment across multiple zones. Attractions include Marvel superhero experiences, Cartoon Network rides, IMG Boulevard, and Lost Valley dinosaur adventures. Thrill rides like Velociraptor roller coaster and Avengers Battle of Ultron combine cutting-edge technology with immersive storytelling. The park maintains comfortable temperatures year-round, making it ideal during Dubai's hot summers. Family-friendly attractions balance extreme rides, ensuring entertainment for all ages. Dining options and retail stores featuring licensed merchandise complete the experience. The haunted hotel section provides spine-tingling experiences for brave visitors.

⏱ Full dayBook Ahead
Dhow Cruise
Top Pick📌 Book Ahead

Dhow Cruise

Traditional wooden dhow boats transformed into floating restaurants offer scenic dinner cruises along Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina. Creek cruises showcase old Dubai's heritage districts and illuminated souks, while Marina cruises feature modern skyscrapers and yacht-filled waters. Two-hour journeys include international buffet dinners, live entertainment with traditional music and Tanoura dance, and open-air upper deck viewing. The romantic atmosphere makes these popular for couples and special celebrations. Commentary points out landmarks along the routes. Some operators offer luxury glass-enclosed dhows with air-conditioning. Afternoon tea cruises and lunch options provide alternative timing.

⏱ 2-3 hoursBook Ahead
Ski Dubai
Top Pick📌 Book Ahead

Ski Dubai

The Middle East's first indoor ski resort maintains real snow year-round within Mall of the Emirates, offering five slopes varying in difficulty including the world's first indoor black run. Activities include skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and snow park experiences. The Snow Park features penguin encounters where visitors interact with resident Gentoo and King penguins during scheduled march sessions. Equipment rental and lessons are available for all skill levels from beginners to advanced. The Snow Bullet ride provides zorbing thrills down snowy slopes. Appropriate winter clothing is provided with entry. The surreal experience of snow sports in desert Dubai creates unforgettable memories.

⏱ 2-4 hoursBook Ahead
Hot Air Balloon Ride
Top Pick📌 Book Ahead

Hot Air Balloon Ride

Experience sunrise over the Arabian Desert from hot air balloons floating peacefully above sand dunes and wildlife reserves. Flights typically depart before dawn, offering spectacular views as the sun illuminates the desert landscape. Passengers may spot Arabian oryx, gazelles, and camels roaming their natural habitat below. The serene one-hour flight contrasts dramatically with Dubai's urban energy, providing meditative tranquility. Professional pilots share insights about desert ecology and navigation. Most packages include luxury desert resort breakfasts following the flight. Photography opportunities are exceptional during golden hour lighting. Small group sizes ensure intimate experiences.

⏱ 4-5 hours totalBook Ahead

Tips for Tours & Activities

  • Book desert safaris with reputable operators that prioritize safety and environmental responsibility avoid the cheapest options
  • Arrive at Dubai Fountain 15-20 minutes before shows during peak season to secure prime viewing positions on the waterfront promenade
  • Desert safaris are uncomfortable for pregnant women, those with back problems, or young children due to intense dune bashing
  • Hot air balloon rides are weather-dependent and may be cancelled book early in your trip allowing rebooking flexibility
  • Combine Ski Dubai with Mall of the Emirates shopping for a full day purchase combo packages online for savings
  • Dhow cruises along Dubai Creek offer better cultural ambiance while Marina cruises provide modern skyline views choose based on preference

More about Dubai

Landmarks & Monuments Museums & Galleries Religious Sites Neighborhoods & Districts Parks & Gardens Day Trips & Excursions Food & Dining Best Time to Visit Getting Around Tourist Passes Shopping Guide Festivals & Events Day Itineraries Best Photo Spots Food Guide Electricity & Plugs