Things to do
Things to do in Dubai: 12 ideas from the souks to the desert
Dubai is more than skyscrapers and malls. These are the twelve things we would do, from an abra across Dubai Creek and the spice souks to the desert at sunset.
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An abra, a small wooden motorboat, pulls away from the bank of Dubai Creek, and the fare is a handful of dirhams. Around you sit workers, visitors and a man with a sack of spices, and on the far side the souks of Deira are waiting.
Dubai has two faces: the old trading town on the Creek and the new city along the coast with the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah. We have picked twelve experiences that show both, and we say when it is simply too hot to be outdoors.
Short answer: what should you do in Dubai?
Take an abra across Dubai Creek and walk the spice and gold souks, visit Al Fahidi and see the city from the Burj Khalifa. Head into the desert at sunset, and spend a day on the beach at Jumeirah with the Burj Al Arab in the background.
Best of old Dubai: Al Fahidi and the Creek
Best view: the Burj Khalifa
Best nature: the desert
Best beach: Jumeirah
Best evening: the Dubai Fountain
1. An abra across Dubai Creek
These small wooden boats have carried people across the Creek for generations, and the crossing is one of the cheapest experiences in the city. Cross from Bur Dubai to Deira and walk straight into the souks.
2. The spice and gold souks of Deira
Sacks of saffron and cinnamon in one alley, windows full of gold in the next. Haggling is expected, but keep it friendly.
The catch: traders can be pushy. A polite no is enough.
3. Al Fahidi
The historic quarter of wind towers and coral-stone walls shows Dubai before oil. Wander the lanes, visit the galleries and have coffee in an old courtyard.
4. The Burj Khalifa
The world's tallest building has viewing decks on several floors. Book a sunset slot and arrive early.
5. The Dubai Fountain
The fountains at the foot of the Burj Khalifa dance to music in the evening. The show is free from the promenade by Dubai Mall.
6. A desert safari
A trip into the dunes at sunset, often with dinner at a camp. Choose an operator with good reviews, and say so if you do not want the wildest dune driving.
7. Jumeirah Beach
The public beaches along Jumeirah are free and look towards the Burj Al Arab. Kite Beach and Sunset Beach are among the most popular.
8. The Museum of the Future
The oval building wrapped in Arabic calligraphy is as much a sight from outside as within. Tickets are timed and should be bought in advance.
9. Souk Madinat Jumeirah
A newer souk with canals, restaurants and views of the Burj Al Arab. A good spot for dinner with abras gliding past your table.
10. Dubai Marina
The promenade around the marina is lively in the evening, with restaurants and boats. Take a boat trip to see the skyline from the water.
11. Alserkal Avenue and the Jameel Arts Centre
The city's art scene lives in Alserkal Avenue, a warehouse district of galleries in Al Quoz, and at the Jameel Arts Centre by the Creek.
12. A day trip to Abu Dhabi
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi are around an hour and a half away by car. Dress modestly for the mosque.
Jumeirah Al Qasr
Jumeirah Al Qasr in Madinat Jumeirah.
Where to stay in Dubai
Choose between the beach at Jumeirah and old Dubai by the Creek. Our Dubai hotel guide covers every area.
Jumeirah Al Qasr: a palace on the canals
Al Qasr is built like a summer palace in Madinat Jumeirah, with canals where small abras ferry guests between restaurants. Its private beach sits right beside the Burj Al Arab. A good pick if you want beach and style in one stay.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Jumeirah Al Qasr
Al Seef Heritage Hotel
Al Seef Heritage Hotel by Dubai Creek.
Al Seef Heritage: old Dubai
Al Seef Heritage stands by Dubai Creek, built in traditional style with wind towers and narrow lanes. The abras across the water and the souks of Deira are a few minutes away. Choose it to experience the old heart of the city, not just the towers.
Book your stay: Check availability and prices at Al Seef Heritage Hotel
Good to know before you go
Best time: November to March is pleasant outdoors. Summer is extremely hot.
Dress respectfully: cover shoulders and knees in the souks and at mosques.
Ramadan: during the month of fasting, eating and drinking in public by day is restricted.
Metro and taxis: the metro is fast and clean, and taxis are good value.
Dubai: frequently asked questions
What should you do in Dubai?
Take an abra across Dubai Creek, visit the souks and Al Fahidi, see the city from the Burj Khalifa and go into the desert at sunset.
When is the best time to visit Dubai?
November to March has pleasant weather. June to September is extremely hot.
What is free in Dubai?
The Dubai Fountain, the public beaches, Al Fahidi and the Dubai Marina promenade cost nothing, and the abra is almost free.
How many days do you need in Dubai?
Four to five days gives time for the city, the beach, the desert and a day trip to Abu Dhabi.