Things to do
Things to do in Dubai: skyline, souks, desert and beaches
From the top of the Burj Khalifa to the old souks of Deira, desert safaris and day trips to Abu Dhabi, with tips on when to go.
By Traveljin Editorial Team · Updated · 2 min read
Quick answer
- November to March is the best time to visit, with daytime highs of about 24–30°C; summer is extremely hot.
- Top experiences: the Burj Khalifa at sunset, the Dubai Fountain, an abra ride across Dubai Creek to the souks, and an evening desert safari.
- Four days is enough for Dubai, plus a day trip to Abu Dhabi for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
| Days needed | 4–5 |
|---|---|
| Best months | November–March |
| Flight from London | About 7 hours |
| Book ahead | Burj Khalifa sunset, desert safaris |
| Getting around | Metro, taxis and rideshares |
Downtown Dubai
Go up the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, at sunset; the observation decks on levels 124 and 125 are the classic choice, and higher levels cost more. Below, the Dubai Fountain performs free shows every evening, and the Dubai Mall has an aquarium and an ice rink.
The Museum of the Future, with its striking ring-shaped building, and the Dubai Frame, with views of old and new Dubai, are worth adding.
Old Dubai
Explore the wind-tower houses of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, then cross Dubai Creek on a traditional abra water taxi, which costs just a few dirhams, to the Gold and Spice Souks in Deira. Evening food tours of the older districts are a great way to try Emirati and South Asian dishes.
Desert safari
An afternoon desert safari usually includes dune driving in a 4x4, sandboarding, a camel ride, sunset over the dunes and dinner at a desert camp. Morning balloon flights over the desert are a quieter alternative.
Beaches and theme parks
Relax at JBR beach or Kite Beach, both free, or book a day at a beach club. On Palm Jumeirah, Atlantis has the Aquaventure water park. Seasonal favourites from about October to May include Global Village, with pavilions from around the world, and the Dubai Miracle Garden.
Day trip to Abu Dhabi and tips
Abu Dhabi is about 1.5 hours away by road. Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the new museums of the Saadiyat Cultural District, or the theme parks on Yas Island.
- Dress modestly in malls, souks and religious sites; mosques provide guidance and cover-ups.
- Ramadan falls in February and March in 2027. Many restaurants keep shorter hours by day, and evenings are lively.
- Check entry requirements for your passport on your government's travel advice site before you travel.
Frequently asked questions
What are the best things to do in Dubai?
The Burj Khalifa at sunset, the Dubai Fountain, an abra ride to the Gold and Spice Souks, a desert safari, the Museum of the Future, a beach day and a day trip to Abu Dhabi.
When is the best time to visit Dubai?
November to March, when days are warm and sunny. From June to September temperatures often exceed 40°C.
How many days do you need in Dubai?
Four to five days, including a day trip to Abu Dhabi.
