Fun Things to do in Dubai for First-Time Travelers

Is this your debut trip to Dubai? Seeing Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, the Dubai Mall, the Museum of the Future, and Dubai Creek etc. will surely be on your to-do list. But if you wish to explore this Arabian city with a dash of sheer amusement and thrill, take inspiration from this list of things to do in Dubai; it is especially for those who want to add the most exciting and fun-packed moments to their first-ever Dubai holiday.

Experience the Middle East’s First Glass Slide

Dubai has some exceptional viewpoints, but Sky Views Dubai inside the stylish Address Sky View Hotel stands out among all! You can catch the most majestic views of Dubai’s unequaled cityscape from its observation deck, which occupies the 52nd and 53rd levels. But that’s not all; you get the once-in-a-lifetime chance to delight in a transparent glass slide ride from the 53rd to the 52nd level, the first-of-its-kind in the region. There is also an Edge Walk session, allowing the daredevils to take an unforgettable hands-free walk on the main pod’s ledge.

See Dubai from the World’s Highest Observation Deck

Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building, with some record-breaking segments to its credit. One of the most unmissable among them is its observation deck on the 148^th floor, which is the world’s highest. If you plan to restrict your Burj Khalifa visit up to its 124^th observation deck, know that going 24 more levels up is worth it for the striking views and the most opulent experiences, such as the dedicated elevator ride, access to Sky Lounge, and delightful treats like premium dates, Arabic coffee, etc.

Watch the Dubai Fountain Show on an Abra Ride

There is no doubt that watching the Dubai Fountain show outside the massive Dubai Mall will already be on your bucket list. But if you wish to witness it with exclusivity, nothing comes closer to an abra ride along the Burj Lake, where this astonishing fountain is set. It promises you the most fantastic and up-close standpoint to absorb this unparalleled performance of choreographed water in sync with music and light.

Go Off-Road on a Desert Safari

A desert safari is one of the must-dos in any Dubai program. While a limited-time morning safari offers a slice of breathtaking Dubai’s desert allure, it is highly recommended to consider an evening desert safari in Dubai. It lasts about seven to eight hours and promises the perfect measure of exhilaration, cultural immersion, dining, and traditional entertainment. See the seas of golden desert sands on a heart-pounding 4×4 dune bash, ride a camel, smoke Shisha, feast on a delicious BBQ dinner, and watch a charming belly dance and Tanura performance. There are a lot of locals who opened small businesses for tourists and who are ready to offer you an attractive experience for your trip in Dubai. 

Visit the Museum of Illusions

Museums in Dubai have a dedicated fan base for their distinctive themes and exhibits. Whether you want to go back in time or transport yourself to an avant-garde future, there is something to delight every preference in the city. But that doesn’t end here; do you know Dubai also hosts a museum promising full-on fun, education, and entertainment? Head to the Museum of Illusions! Immerse yourself in a world of utter awe and perplexity as you check out its brain-twisting puzzles, optical illusions, and hologram exhibits. Find yourself tiny or giant as you stand in the Ames Room or feel amusement and anxiety simultaneously as you walk along the spinning-like Vortex Tunnel, to name a few.

Experience the World’s Fastest Urban Zipline

If you are looking for an aerial activity where amusement and adventure go hand in hand, be sure to hit XLine Dubai! Stretching for about one kilometer from Dubai Marina Mall’s terrace to Amwaj Tower, it is the world’s fastest and longest urban zipline adventure. It lets you fly over Dubai Marina’s pulsating sights like a superhero at a speed of over 80 kilometers per hour. The best thing is that you can take home some wonderful pictures and videos of your amazing zipline session in Dubai.

Have the Most Exciting and Exhilarating Moments at Dubai’s Theme Parks

From Motiongate Dubai to LEGOLAND Dubai within the Dubai Parks and Resorts, Dubai’s theme parks are so distinctly themed that each of them is worth a visit in its own right. Drop into Ski Dubai inside the Mall of the Emirates and cool off in a sub-zero setting, where you can look forward to throwing snow, trying skiing and snowboarding, and even taking some enchanting snow-themed rides. If your theme park expectation is catching up with superheroes, you can explore the five ultimate zones, featuring Marvel heroes, cartoon characters, and dinosaurs, with your IMG Worlds tickets.

Experience Sky-High Dining

Want to go airborne but are looking for an alternative to the pricey experiences like a helicopter ride? You must definitely sign up for a Flying Cup experience in Dubai, where you’ll board a swiveling circular platform that will ascend you 40 meters above the ground. It gives you the rare chance to sit back amid clouds and see the city’s dynamic modern sights across JBR, Dubai Marina, and Bluewaters Island like never before. The bonus is the food and drinks that you can relish during the experience, depending on your chosen package.

Take a Wonder Bus Tour

Sightseeing may not be enjoyed by all, especially by little ones. But you can make it interesting for every member of your group with a Wonder Bus Tour, as it gives you the rare opportunity to see Dubai’s delights from both land and water. It’s because you’ll travel in an amphibian vehicle. It journeys you through the region’s top neighborhoods before plunging into the waters of Dubai Creek, promising a terrific way of exploring Dubai for all age groups.

Pose for Selfies with Celebs

Did you know Dubai is home to the Arab world’s first Madame Tussauds Museum? Nonstop laughter and the most enlightening moments are assured here as you interact with the life-size wax statues of your favorite personalities representing almost all domains of fame, such as legendary royals, athletes, movie icons, musicians, fashion divas, and all-time beloved leaders. Don’t just meet them; capture tons of pictures to take home as a keepsake of your Dubai trip. So, imagine returning with your images hanging out with Taylor Swift, Just Bieber, Salman Khan, and Queen Elizabeth II.

Final Thoughts

Dubai things to do for those seeking leisure and fun are endless. You can indulge in activities as unique yet exhilarating as a jet car ride, a hot air balloon flight, or a dinner cruise at Dubai Marina or Dubai Creek. Don’t you want to stretch your budget? You can still have fun in Dubai by embarking on an abra ride for just AED 1, taking the iconic Dubai Metro ride, the world’s swiftest driverless metro, or spending some time quality time at its serene green parks.