Beyond the towering skyscrapers and extravagant malls, Dubai is home to several underrated experiences worth exploring. From a wildlife sanctuary in the heart of the city to a historic fort reminiscent of a bygone era, discover Dubai unfiltered, with the best places to explore beyond the tourist trail.
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Amidst the hotels and busy intersections, Ras Al Khor sits on the banks of the Dubai Creek and offers visitors an escape from the city without the need to venture far. This wetland reserve is home to thousands of migratory birds, including pink flamingos flocking to the water.
Camel Races & Bedouin Experiences At Al Marmoom
Dubai’s rich Bedouin heritage is on full display at Al Marmoom, a desert reserve located roughly 40 minutes from the city. Head to the area in the early morning to watch 60 camels race on a sandy track, or share a traditional meal in a desert camp.
Located in the Al Quoz industrial district, Alserkal Avenue is a hub for contemporary art and culture. With cutting-edge galleries, creative workshops, and artisan cafés, it’s the perfect spot for connecting with Dubai’s creative scene.
Al Fahidi Fort
Delve into the region’s history at Al Fahidi Fort, an 18th-century showcase of the city’s journey; from a quaint pearl-diving village to the metropolis it is today.
If you’re an adrenaline junkie, Dubai is calling your name! Known for its luxurious lifestyle and iconic skyscrapers, this city is also a hotspot for adventure seekers. Whether you’re diving out of a plane, zooming through the desert, or exploring the urban buzz of Deira, Dubai has something exhilarating for everyone.
Take to the Skies: Skydiving Over the Palm
Imagine free-falling with the world’s most breathtaking views beneath you. Skydiving in Dubai is an unforgettable experience, offering panoramic views of Palm Jumeirah and the city’s futuristic skyline. Perfect for thrill-seekers, this adventure guarantees both heart-pounding action and Instagram-worthy moments.
No trip to Dubai is complete without a desert safari. Feel the rush of dune bashing in a 4×4 or opt for sandboarding if you’re craving a challenge. The adventure doesn’t stop at the dunes—camp under the stars, try camel riding, or catch a mesmerising sunset that paints the desert gold.
Urban Adventure in Deira: Vibrant and Unique
Deira offers a different kind of excitement. Stay at a property like Avani Deira Dubai Hotel, which would be your hub for exploring this dynamic district. From the bustling souks to hidden eateries, there are countless things to do in Deira Dubai. Adventure doesn’t always mean jumping off cliffs—it can be discovering the city’s cultural treasures.
Dive into Water Thrills
Cool off with aquatic adventures like jet-skiing along Jumeirah Beach or taking a speedboat tour around the area. For those who prefer a calmer pace, try paddleboarding or snorkelling amidst Dubai’s crystal-clear waters.
In Dubai’s heritage districts, experience a unique way of life that skillfully blends modern comforts with historical elegance. Discover Dubai’s rich heritage, culture, traditions and historical character of the city to create unforgettable experiences.
One of Dubai’s oldest neighbourhoods is Al Fahidi which features a thriving culture, and beautiful architecture. Residents appreciate living in a community, being close to famous sites, and having a blend of modern comforts and historical elegance.
Trading in Ancient Dubai
Dubai’s historic trading centre, Deira, combines modern living with traditional marketplaces. It provides a lively lifestyle full of history and cultural adventures. Many business persons traded textiles, pearls, gold, and spices, and merchants promoted a thriving market culture and a diverse economy.
The Benefits of Blending History and Culture into Lifestyle
Living in these areas provides a strong sense of community, distinctive architecture with practical benefits, and cultural enrichment. Discover Dubai’s history while enjoying the present-day conveniences in these locations. If you are looking for a first-hand experience of Dubai’s vibrant lifestyle, enjoy some urban sophistication at the NH Collection Dubai The Palm which promises a modern, spacious and comfortable stay and is one of the top hotels in Dubai Palm.
Festivals and Events
Dubai celebrates its rich heritage all year long with a range of cultural festivals and activities which range from traditional performances to art exhibits, highlighting the city’s rich cultural diversity and creativity.
Dubai boasts of a rich culture, modern luxury, and architectural excellence. Discover its most distinctive features, from iconic attractions to dessert safaris and absorb and experience everything this destination offers!
The Architectural Wonders
The Burj Khalifa is the crown jewel of Dubai which attracts many locals and tourists. A visit to the top will give you an experience unlike any other especially from the unparalleled panoramic views of the city, to the mouthwatering delicacies served in the restaurants. Surrounding this magnificent structure, you will find the Dubai Fountain, the Dubai Mall and more which offer plenty of entertainment and experiences for everyone.
Desert Adventures
Dubai’s desert adventures include camel rides, exhilarating dune buggy rides, sandboarding, beautiful sunsets and more. It is truly an unforgettable experience with a blend of serenity, thrill, and natural beauty making it the perfect Arabian experience. After an enthralling desert adventure, experience one of the most exquisite hotels in Dubai palm. A Hotel that promises an extraordinary experience is the NH Collection Dubai The Palm.
Culture and History
If you are a history enthusiast or love exploring other cultures, a visit to the Dubai Museum and the Al Fahidi Historical District is in order. There are many Emirati customs at these locations to immerse yourself in the city’s intriguing past.
Unwind on the beautiful Kite and Jumeirah sandy beaches of Dubai which is ideal for water sports and sunbathing. You can also visit and explore The Green Planet and Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, which highlight Dubai’s natural and scenic beauty.
Dubai’s desert is a captivating blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Explore its golden sands through exciting activities and tranquil moments.
Dune Bashing: A Thrill in the Sands
For adrenaline seekers, dune bashing offers an exhilarating ride over rolling dunes in a 4×4 vehicle. If you’re based in the city, short stay apartments in Dubai the likes of Citadines Metro Central Dubai provide a convenient retreat after your adventure.
Step into the shoes of ancient traders by exploring the desert on a camel. This gentle ride offers a closer look at the vast landscape, giving you a true sense of the desert’s expanse.
Desert Camps: Embracing Local Culture
Spend an evening immersing yourself in the rich traditions of a desert camp. These camps are vibrant hubs where you can enjoy authentic Arabian music, savour a spread of local delicacies, and marvel at mesmerising performances like belly dancing or Tanoura spinning. Some camps also offer henna painting and falconry displays, adding to the cultural immersion.
Stargazing: A Quiet Desert Escape
As the sun sets, the desert transforms into a tranquil expanse, ideal for stargazing enthusiasts. Free from the city’s light pollution, the sky reveals a celestial masterpiece of countless stars. Whether you’re reclining on a cosy mat or using a telescope, the experience is profoundly calming and connects you with the universe in a way few other places can offer.
Situated on the Persian Gulf coastline of the Arabian Peninsula, the cultural haven of Dubai is a paradise for outdoor lovers, offering a range of adventures and experiences to last a lifetime. From thrilling rides on desert dunes to heart-pounding drops through the clouds, here are some of the best outdoor experiences to enjoy in Dubai.
Desert Safari
Hop into a 4×4 jeep and race across the vast desert landscapes on an epic desert safari. You can visit a nearby camel farm and enjoy a much less intense camel ride or sail down the massive dunes on a sandboard. The adventures are endless out on Dubai’s golden deserts.
Doghnut Ride
If you are staying closer to the coastline and beaches at hotels like Oaks Liwa Heights, use the opportunity to enjoy a thrilling Doughnut Ride. Get onto an inflatable doughnut and experience the thrill of being along the waters by a speedboat that takes you along exhilarating twists and turns.
Al Barsha Pond Park
As you take advantage of Dubai hotel promotions, head out to this scenic park and enjoy a picnic under the shade of towering trees or by the calming waters of the park’s pond. You can even go a step further and paddle across the water in a cute swan paddle boat.
Feel the thrill of soaring across the skies with a session of tandem skydiving. Accompanied by a trained instructor, you’ll have nothing to fear; simply enjoy the stunning views of the city’s skyline as you parachute down through the clouds towards the sparkling coastline.
Dubai, known for its luxury and modern architecture, has also become a hotspot for adrenaline-fueled adventure activities. From skydiving over iconic landmarks to exploring vast desert dunes, the city offers thrill-seekers an incredible array of experiences. Whether you’re a fan of water sports, extreme heights, or desert safaris, Dubai has something for everyone looking to add a little adventure to their trip. This guide will help you discover the best adventure activities Dubai has to offer.
Skydive Over the Palm Jumeirah
One of the most iconic adventure experiences in Dubai is skydiving over the stunning Palm Jumeirah. Imagine freefalling from 13,000 feet with a panoramic view of Dubai’s skyline, the Arabian Gulf, and the man-made Palm Islands below. This exhilarating experience attracts both beginners and seasoned skydivers. For those who prefer to stay grounded, there’s an indoor skydiving option at iFLY Dubai, which offers the thrill of freefall without leaving the city. You can reach the Palm Jumeirah in 18 minutes if you’re staying at a hotel such as Avani Ibn Battuta Hotel which is located in the heart of Dubai.
Explore the Desert on a Dune Safari
A desert safari is a must-do adventure when visiting Dubai. This thrilling ride across the golden dunes of the Arabian Desert includes dune bashing in 4×4 vehicles, which will have you speeding over the dunes in a heart-pounding adventure. The experience often includes camel rides, sandboarding, and the chance to witness a beautiful desert sunset. Many tours conclude with a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the desert night.
For water sports enthusiasts, Dubai’s beaches offer a playground of exciting activities. Jet skiing along the coast, with the iconic Burj Al Arab in the background, is a popular choice for thrill-seekers. You can also try flyboarding, an extreme water sport that lets you hover above the water like a superhero. For something more relaxed but equally adventurous, kite surfing at Kite Beach offers the perfect combination of speed and control, with Dubai’s skyline providing a dramatic backdrop.
Conquer Heights at the XLine Dubai Marina
If you’re looking for things to do in Ibn Battuta, the XLine zipline in Dubai Marina is an unmissable experience. This is one of the world’s longest urban ziplines, stretching for over a kilometre and reaching speeds of up to 80 km/h. As you soar from the top of a skyscraper down across the Marina, you’ll have breathtaking views of the cityscape, yachts, and waterfront buildings. It’s a thrill that offers a unique perspective of Dubai from high above.
Scuba Dive in the Dubai Aquarium
For those who love underwater adventures, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo offers an extraordinary scuba diving experience. You can dive with sharks, rays, and other marine creatures inside one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world. For beginners, there are guided diving sessions and certified divers can explore the depths of the aquarium on their own. It’s a surreal experience to dive into the heart of the city, surrounded by marine life in an enclosed yet vast aquatic world.
Dubai is a playground for those looking to enjoy both luxury and adventure. From private yacht tours to skydiving over an iconic landmark, there’s no shortage of experiences to make you feel like a celebrity!
Private Desert Safari
Experience the beauty of the Arabian desert with a private safari. Enjoy dune bashing, camel rides, and a sunset dinner in a luxury camp. For those looking for unique things to see and do in Dubai, this experience blends adventure with local culture.
Luxury Yacht Cruise
Charter a private yacht or boat and cruise along Dubai Marina or sail around the Palm Jumeirah. Relax in style as you soak up the sun or enjoy the stunning skyline at sunset. A stay at a property such as Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort pairs perfectly with this lavish experience.
Nothing says exclusive adventure like skydiving over one of the world’s most iconic landscapes, Palm Jumeirah! With a bird’s-eye view of the city and coastline, this thrilling activity offers an adrenaline rush with stunning views.
Hot Air Balloon Ride Over the Desert
For a serene yet unforgettable adventure, take a hot air balloon ride over the Arabian desert at sunrise. Float above the golden dunes, and spot local wildlife like the oryx and gazelles. This peaceful journey is a perfect way to embrace the majestic beauty of Dubai from a unique perspective.
Dubai is a city where skyscrapers touch the clouds and the desert whispers stories of old. Amidst its stunning architecture and luxurious lifestyle, a vibrant art scene flourishes, inviting both locals and tourists to explore the transformative power of creativity. From modern galleries showcasing groundbreaking works to public art installations that add flair to the urban landscape, Dubai is a testament to the belief that art can inspire, challenge, and connect us all.
Located near many luxury hotels in Dubai, such as the well-known La Suite Dubai Hotel & Apartments, this contemporary arts hub is home to a myriad of galleries, artist studios, and creative spaces. With its eclectic mix of exhibitions, Alserkal Avenue pushes the boundaries of artistic expression, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts.
Dubai Design District (d3)
A thriving creative community, d3 is a hub for designers and artists. Here, public art installations blend seamlessly with innovative architecture, creating a vibrant atmosphere that celebrates creativity in all its forms.
The Third Line Gallery
One of the leading contemporary art galleries in Dubai, The Third Line showcases a diverse range of Middle Eastern artists. With thought-provoking exhibitions and a commitment to promoting regional talent, it’s a cornerstone of Dubai’s art community.
Art Dubai
As the leading international art fair in the Middle East, Art Dubai brings together galleries from around the world, featuring contemporary artworks, photography, and installations. This annual event is a celebration of creativity, attracting art lovers and collectors alike.
Zawyeh Gallery
With locations in both Dubai and Ramallah, Zawyeh Gallery offers a platform for emerging and established Palestinian artists. The gallery showcases a wide array of contemporary works, reflecting the rich cultural heritage and resilience of Palestinian artistry. It’s a must-visit for those interested in exploring art that tells powerful stories of identity and tradition.
The Dubai Canal, a remarkable artificial waterway, stretches for 3.2 kilometres, transforming the city’s urban landscape and connecting the vibrant Downtown Dubai area to the Arabian Gulf. This architectural marvel not only serves as a functional waterway but also offers a scenic route adorned with pedestrian bridges, charming walkways, and leisure zones.
Reaching the Boardwalk
The Dubai Water Canal Boardwalk is easily accessible from various points along the canal. Located near Sheikh Zayed Road, it can be reached by public buses, taxis, or your own vehicle. Ferries and water taxis also operate along the canal, making it easily reachable from the best luxury hotels in Dubai no matter what mode of transport you choose.
What You Should Know
The Dubai Canal is a hub of activity, featuring cycling lanes, footpaths, running tracks and seating areas along its scenic expanse. Powered by solar energy, its eco-friendly design includes streetlights and convenient charging stations for keeping devices powered while enjoying the view. The canal boasts nine marine stations, offering ferries, water taxis, dhow cruises, and abras (a traditional boat) which are ideal if you want to get a unique perspective of the city.
The Waterfall Display
Located on the Sheikh Zayed Road Bridge at Exit 4, the Dubai Canal Waterfall is a major attraction, drawing visitors with its dazzling show of water and lights in the evenings. The design of the waterfall is such that it is set to shut off automatically when a boat gets close. Consider dropping by to see this spectacle for yourself, as it makes a great excursion especially if you happen to be staying at centrally located properties like Paramount Hotel Midtown.
The Dubai Water Canal features five striking pedestrian bridges – and a few of them connect to either side of the canal. Among them, the Tolerance Bridge, named in honour of International Tolerance Day, stands out as the first suspended bridge of its kind in the United Arab Emirates. The other bridges connect Jumeirah Road, Al Wasl Road and Sheikh Zayed Road.
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