Why Dubai Belongs on Your Holiday List

If you're searching for things to do in Dubai , here is our pick of ten, from the tallest building in the world to the souks of Old Dubai and an evening in the desert. At Travel Hub, Dubai is one of the destinations we sell, so read on for our guide.

Top 10 Things to Do in Dubai

1. Go Up the Burj Khalifa

At 828 metres, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. Its At The Top observation decks are on levels 124 and 148, and going up at sunset is a lovely way to see the city.

2. Take a Desert Safari

The desert is about 45 minutes from the city. A desert safari can combine 4x4 dune bashing, camel rides and sand-boarding with dinner at a traditional Arabic camp.

3. Wander the Gold and Spice Souks

In Deira, around Dubai Creek, the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk show the traditional side of the city. Haggling is part of the fun.

4. Cross Dubai Creek by Abra

The traditional abra boat-taxi crosses Dubai Creek for 2 AED. Try it at sunset.

5. Watch the Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain puts on water, light and music shows every 30 minutes from 6pm. Watching from a restaurant at the Dubai Mall makes an evening of it.

6. Explore the Dubai Mall

At the base of the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall is home to the Dubai Aquarium, with its 10-metre underwater tunnel, and an Olympic-sized ice rink.

7. Make a Splash at Aquaventure

On the Palm Jumeirah, the man-made island shaped like a palm tree, Atlantis The Palm is home to the Aquaventure Waterpark, a fun day out for families.

8. Step Back in Time in Al Fahidi

The Al Fahidi heritage district has 19th-century wind-tower houses, a real contrast to the glass towers of the modern city.

9. Eat Like a Local

Try shawarma from a cafeteria in Deira, a mezze spread at a Lebanese restaurant, Arabic coffee with dates and luqaimat (sweet dumplings). A Friday brunch at a hotel is another one to try.

10. Spend a Day on the Beach

JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence) and Kite Beach offer golden sand and warm water for most of the year.

When to Go

November to March is peak season, with temperatures of 22-30C. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is 6 hours 45 minutes from London.

Ready to Plan Your Dubai Holiday?

Whether it's the landmarks, the souks, the desert or the beach that draws you, we'd love to help you plan it. Travel Hub offers holiday packages and tailor-made breaks, and our ABTA numbers are Y6590 and P7373. Get in touch and let's start planning your trip.