Dubai is home to extraordinary landmarks. And that makes it one of the most thriving places in the world. It experiences an astonishing footfall every year. Millions of tourists from east and west arrive to be amazed by its opulence and splendour. If you are one of those first-time travellers who want to tick off the main highlights and have unrivalled fun, here is the list of top things to do in Dubai

Marvel at Burj Al Arab


Dubai is proud of its matchless engineering and innovation. And the best example of its architectural feat is the sail-shaped 7-star luxury hotel, Burj Al Arab. You can snap an Instagram-worthy shot from the sightseeing boat tour or reserve a seat at the Skyview Bar on the 27th floor and sip inventive mixed drinks with a view.

See the city from Burj Khalifa


Piercing the sky at 828 metres, Burj Khalifa is the record-breaking structure of Dubai. This tallest tower in the world has the highest observation deck on the 148th floor from where you can soak in the sweeping panoramic view of the city. Keep your appetite happy by dining in the highest restaurant and sipping tea in the fanciest lounge. The 124th and 125th floor have equally fascinating visuals and tours. 

Take speedboat tour

Cover all the incredible places of Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina on a 90-minute speed boat tour. Wear your hat and sunglasses, and get up close to Dubai Eye, The Atlantis, The Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Beach and the huge rises of Marina. An English-speaking guide will narrate you the mind-boggling facts about these Dubai's top landmarks.

Book a safari


The desert in Dubai gives you a glimpse of Bedouin lifestyle, as practised in the old days. There is a wide-ranging desert safari tours Dubai from which you can choose the one that suits your convenience and interest. The evening desert safari is the most popular for its array of adventurous and cultural activities. Indulge in dune bashing, rev up for quad biking, surf the sand, design hands with henna, watch belly dancing and devour the most delicious Arabian buffet. 

Feel the adrenaline rush at IMG


Sprawling over an area of 28 football fields, IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world's largest indoor theme park. It has an impressive collection of over 20 rides, categorised into 4 themed zones-Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure and IMG Boulevard. Get ready to unlock yoru imagination — as you fight battles of Avengers, have hearts pumping on the top-spin ride, get chased by life-size animated dinosaurs, and get chills down your spine in the Haunted Hotel. Don't miss out on dining, shopping and movie thrills. 

Visit the Dubai Mall


As one of the largest malls in the world, the Dubai Mall draws in almost 100 million visitors a year. And it's easy to be lost in such extravagant space as it offers countless things to do in Dubai. Over 1200 luxury shops, a walk-through and giant aquarium, an Olympic-size ice rink, a VR Park, a haunted house, and an array of restaurants make it a complete family entertainment destination. 

Explore the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo


Home to 140 species in a 10-million litre suspend tank, the aquarium located inside the Dubai Mall is listed amongst the largest aquariums of the world. The 270-degree view of over 33,000 marine creatures like sharks, stingrays, from under the tunnel will leave you spellbound. You can also wear your adventuroushat and crawl inside the aquarium for scuba diving and cage snorkelling. 

Ogle at the Dubai Fountain


Located on the 12 hectares manmade Burj Khalifa Lake, at the centre of Downtown Dubai, Dubai Fountain is the largest performing fountain in the world. It surges as high as 150 m, forming beautiful arcs and jumping to the beat of the world-class music. So, grab the front row seats on the Burj ride and observe the best scene of the fountain along with a splash of water. 

Revel in the Global Village 


The region's first cultural, entertainment, family and shopping destination, Global Village is organised every year during the winter months. The 24th season of 2019-20 ran for 5 months and drew 7 million people to its premise. Featuring breathtaking fireworks, shows, rides and performances, the place has various pavilions representing different countries and their products and cuisine. So, participate in this bonanza and do unlimited fun, dine and shop. 

Shop in the souks


To have the authentic Arabian shopping vibe, there is no better place than the souks in Old Dubai. The gold souk is the famous of all, as it sells the highest quality gold at the cheapest range and bargaining is always welcome. Take advantage of such jaw-dropping prices and take back home the stunning designer gold jewellery. Besides it, there are mounds of herb, Persian rugs, carpets, textile, handicrafts, souvenirs and lot more in the spice, perfume and textile souks. 

Meander through Bastakiya Quarter


Also known as the Al Fahidi Historical District, this is the oldest residential neighbourhood in Dubai. Traffic fades as you saunter down its labyrinth of walkways. Observe the sand-coloured houses topped with wind towers. Built in the early 1900s, the place today has about 50 buildings containing museums, craft shops, cultural exhibitions, cafes, art galleries and two boutique hotels.

Bask in the sun at Kite Beach


Either you are a watersport enthusiast or a casual beachgoer, Kite Beach has an atmosphere for everyone out there. It has pristine surrounding with white sand and turquoise water. It is a zesty beach, well-equipped with loungers, changing facilities and food trucks. Take a dip in the water with wakeboarding, kitesurfing and paddleboarding or keep your feet dry as you play volleyball. 

Unleash your inner child at Aquaventure Waterpark


The most sensational waterpark in Dubai, Aquaventure is nestled in the grand Atlantis hotel complex. The outstanding water park has a series of pools, shoots, rides and slides that offer you heart-racing experiences. Visitors can even kick back in the cabanas, have a nice meal at the lined restaurants or shop interesting souvenirs. 

Conclusion

There is no doubt that Dubai keeps everyone satisfied with its attractive assortment of attractions. Amongst the endless activities for families, couples and friends, we handpicked the most-reviewed ones to help you enjoy seamlessly.