Things to do in Dubai
Author: Eloise Barker
Amongst its palaces, you’ll find thousands of things to do. Shop (or even ski) in the world’s most extravagant malls, enjoy water parks and theme parks in year-round sunshine and be seduced by the sands of the desert, right on your doorstep. When you visit the heritage centres and the city’s modern art galleries, you’ll see that this city in the middle of the wilderness has more than enough distractions to keep you entertained.
1. Burj Khalifa
You can’t miss the Burj Khalifa. The world’s tallest building stands proud at a whopping 828 metres high. Whoosh up it in the world’s fastest pressurised lift and take in the view from one of two observation platforms on the 124th and 148th floors respectively. Dine with a view at At.mosphere on the 122nd floor, enjoy a cocktail in the Lounge, the world’s highest lounge spread across three floors. Back at ground level enjoy cruising around the Dubai Mall or take in the spectacle that is the choreographed musical fountain.
2. Wild Wadi Water Park
Wild Wadi is truly a water park fit for the 21st Century. It offers acres of aquatic adventures and gravity defying thrill rides, such as Jumeirah Sceirah which builds tension before dropping you down at a 70-degree angle and WipeOut Flowrider one of only four artificial surf stations in the world. If you want to relax after those try the park’s wave pools and a lazy river to gently glide along
3. Aquaventure
Aquaventure is another water park worth making a beeline for. The world’s largest water park is housed in Dubai’s impressive Atlantis development and features the Surf’s Up wave machine where you can perfect your surfing skills. Go cliff jumping at Immortal Falls, feel weightless on Zoomerango’s vertical wall and face down the world’s tallest waterslide, the Odyssey of Terror – the opportunities for watery fun are practically limitless.
4. Dhow Dinner Cruise
A Dhow Dinner Cruise is a great way to see the city’s Old Town from a new perspective. Cast off on an evening cruise in a traditional wooden craft lit up with twinkling lights. The dhow makes its way leisurely along Dubai Creek, allowing ample time for photographs. Look out for the Rolex Tower, the Wind Towers at the Dubai Heritage Centre, and the minarets of mosques on the shore. The cruise includes a buffet meal.
5. Dubai Creek
Only got one day? Get to know the city by starting at its roots – at Dubai Creek you can delve into the heart of the old town and visit the Al Fahidi Historical District and the Bur Dubai Souq. The massive, impressive Jumeirah Mosque is an important sight and you can easily visit it before a trip to the nearby Jumeirah Beach and a stroll along The Walk at JBR, a popular new hangout. Then it’s time for dinner, dancing fountains outside Burj Khalifa, and a rooftop bar.
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