Dubai is a jack of all trades when it comes to a travel destination. It showcases a combination of old and modern architecture. One morning, you can be soaking in the sun at Jumeirah Beach and later that day be skiing down the slopes at Ski Dubai. And you can visit the famous markets and haggle your way around them, and the next day you’ll find yourself at the massive Dubai Mall shopping at high-end stores. Dubai is an exciting destination.
One cool thing about going to Dubai is that you’ll get to fly Emirates Airlines, one of the best in the world. Once landed, you shouldn’t miss the views from the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, or take a splash at Wadi Wadi Water Park, but there are several lesser-known amazing unique things to do in Dubai. Check them out:
1. Madinat Jumeirah
One of the city’s most attractive resorts, Madinat Jumeirah is a modern version of a traditional Arab village. It features a souq, palm-lined waterways, and desert-themed hotels and villas. It’s especially striking after dusk when the gardens are lit and Burj Al Arab shines in the background. The contemporary development is filled with wonderful details, so make sure you explore around. You might end up at a hidden terrace with a stunning view of the whole complex.
2. Dubai Museum
A visit to the Dubai Museum is the best way to learn about the local history and cultural heritage. The museum is actually in the Al Fahidi Fort, which is the oldest building in Dubai (circa 1787), and previously used by the monarch. You’ll find gems from markets in the 1950s and valuable information about the Arabian Gulf and marine life pre-oil industry.
After walking down a spiraling ramp, you’ll find the main exhibit underground. It’s the perfect place for history buffs and you’ll get to escape the heat for a couple hours.
Entrance: adults/3 dirhams (about $0.82) and children/1 dirham (about $0.27).
3. Arabian Tea House
When you’re in need for a bite to eat, head over to the Arabian Tea house for breakfast or lunch. Here, you’ll taste authentic Arabian hospitality through the interior and the food. This cafe is decorated with turquoise benches, white wicker chairs, and surrounded by a grand tree and flowers in a merchant’s house courtyard. A dreamy place to chill out after touring the Al Fahidi Historic District where it is located.
The menu features Arabian delicacies including raqaq (traditional bread), spicy chicken, and tea service.
4. Dubai Walls
With the new craze about street art around the world, Dubai has its own. The outdoor gallery located at the City Walk quarter features street art from international hotshots including Aiko, Blek Le Rat, ROA and Nick Walker. Perfect photo-op.
Nearby, you’ll find Green Planet, an indoor tropical zoo, and Khazzan Park, one of the city’s oldest parks which is completely solar-powered and features a water tower and a cafe with a library.
5. Cinema Akil
The cinema in downtown Dubai treats cinephiles to indie flicks from around the world. A cool thing about Cinema Akil is that screenings are often followed by a Q&A session with the director.
Whether you visit Dubai with your friends, solo, or for your honeymoon, you will surely enjoy your stay. If you want to add in more travels on your way to Dubai, Singapore is a great idea. If you are stopping by Singapore first while on your trip, then you can consider a Singapore to Dubai flight.
Do you have any other suggestions of unique things to do in Dubai?
A New Life Wandering 