Things to Do in Dubai: 103 Spots

Planning notes for Dubai

Dubai, located on the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, transitioned from a 19th-century fishing and pearling settlement into a global commercial hub. The city’s historical heritage is centered around the Dubai Creek, where the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood preserves 19th-century Emirati architecture. This district features buildings constructed from coral stone, gypsum, teak, and sandalwood. A primary architectural element is the *barjeel*, or wind tower.

Must-try foods nearby

• Al Machboos
  Considered the national dish of the UAE, this fragrant one-pot masterpiece features long-grain rice cooked with tender meat (lamb, chicken.
• Luqaimat
  These addictive, golden-fried dough balls are crunchy on the outside and airy within.
• Dubai Pistachio Knafeh Chocolate
  A global viral sensation originating in Dubai, this 'trending 2026' treat consists of thick chocolate bars stuffed with a crunchy mixture of toasted knafeh pastry and creamy.
• Harees
  A deeply traditional, porridge-like dish made by slow-cooking cracked wheat with meat (usually veal or chicken) for hours until the textures meld into a smooth.
• Chebab
  The Emirati version of a pancake, these are flavored with saffron, cardamom, and turmeric, giving them a distinct yellow hue and aromatic scent.

When to go: The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March, when daytime temperatures average a pleasant 20–28°C (68–82°F), making it the peak season for outdoor dining, desert safaris.

Local tips

• Use your right hand for eating, greeting, and passing items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.
• Dress modestly in public areas like malls and government buildings by ensuring your shoulders and knees are covered.
• Avoid all public displays of affection beyond holding hands, as kissing or embracing in public can lead to legal consequences.
• Utilize the official cream-colored RTA taxis or the Careem app for reliable, metered transport across the city.

What travelers are noticing

• High-altitude fine dining at The Link, One Za’abeel, featuring the January 2026 opening of Nobu One Za’abeel on the 24th floor and the Michelin-starred La Dame de Pic.
• The 2026 Michelin Guide Dubai milestone, which now features 19 starred establishments, including the city's first-ever three-star ratings awarded to FZN by Björn Frantzén and Trèsind Studio.
• The debut of London’s iconic Spanish tapas brand Barrafina in DIFC Gate Village and the opening of Osaka Nikkei at the Mandarin Oriental Downtown.

Extra place context

• Burj Khalifa
  The world's tallest building at 828 meters, this neo-futuristic skyscraper is the centerpiece of Downtown Dubai. Designed by Adrian Smith.
  architecture
• Museum of the Future
  Often called the most beautiful building in the world, this torus-shaped landmark features a stainless-steel facade adorned with Arabic calligraphy of poetry by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
  architecture
• Dubai Frame
  A massive rectangular structure in Zabeel Park that stands 150 meters tall, acting as a literal 'picture frame' that captures Old Dubai to the north and the modern skyline to the south.
  architecture
• Dubai Mall
  Still the undisputed king of global retail, Dubai Mall entered 2026 with a massive AED 1.5 billion expansion that added 240 new luxury stores.
  shopping