10 Things You Must Do on a Holiday in Dubai

Heading to Dubai for some winter sun? Be sure to tick off our top 10 things to do on a Dubai holiday to make the most of your time experiencing this desert city.

Burj Khalifa  

Surely Dubai’s most recognisable landmark and a ‘must’ for all visitors, the tallest building in the world is definitely worth a trip to the top to survey the view from 828m of architectural magnificence.  

Burj Al Arab  

Arguably the world’s most luxurious hotel (some say ‘7-stars’) and set on its own island, this iconic building on the Dubai skyline has played host to many a household name. Head to the top for a cocktail at the Skyview Bar or to Al Mahara for aquarium-side Michelin-star fare; either way you’ll get to live out one of the world’s most extravagant experiences.  

Wild Wadi Waterpark

Holidays to Dubai are well-known for their sunshine thanks to the city’s year-round high temperatures. A great place to cool off that the whole family will love is the Wild Wadi Waterpark with its thrilling slides and tropical pools. Guests staying at selected Travel Seen hotels enjoy complimentary access.  

Dhow trip  

See the city from a new perspective on a cruise in a traditional wooden boat, a dhow. Whether it’s a sunset cruise with champagne or a guided tour along the Dubai Creek, setting sail on one of these Emirati vessels offers a journey to remember.  

Desert safari

While the manmade city is known for its beaches, 5-star hotels and urban delights, it is of course in the desert, so heading out into the dunes for a unique scenic experience is a wonderful way to discover Dubai. Dune bashing – a 4x4 speed drive up and down the sands – is certainly a thrill to remember, followed by a fire lit dinner under the stars at a traditional Bedouin camp.  

Dubai Mall

Shop ‘til you drop at one of the world’s most famous retail and leisure outlets, the Dubai Mall. Here there are some 1,200 stores to pick from, with everything from top designer names and the Gold Souk to high street favourites and even a Hamleys toy shop.  

Dubai Fountain at night

Nestled between the mall and the Burj Khalifa in Downtown Dubai, The Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system, shooting water to the skies to music. Head here after dark when the lights make the display extra special.  

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Within the Madinat Jumeirah resort this traditional souk – an Arabic market – is a great place to pick up souvenirs and enjoy a relaxed meal out. There are wood carvings, spices, locally made jewellery and silks to choose from among the lantern-lit bazaar, all open until late so you can head back to the shops after something to eat at one of the 25 restaurants. Arrive in style by traditional abra along the Madinat waterways if you’re staying at one of the Jumeirah hotels.   

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo  

If you’re looking to occupy the kids during a trip to the Dubai Mall, then its onsite aquarium is sure to inspire them. There are 33,000 aquatic animals from 140 species to see, with a glass tunnel to wander through whilst spotting stingrays and sand tiger sharks. Interactive experiences include snorkelling and a mermaid makeover.  

Tour of Dubai’s mosques

Among Dubai’s many beautiful mosques there are those that you can walk around to see their epic beauty up close. The 1976-built Jumeirah Mosque is a favourite with visitors, as is one of the UAE’s largest the Al Farooq Omar bin Khattab Mosque. Keep your eyes peeled while out and about to spot other architectural gems, like the Mosque of Light and DIFC Grand Mosque.  

 

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