The worlds tallest building, the world’s largest shopping mall, the world’s only seven star hotel and now the world’s largest indoor theme park! Dubai never settles for anything less than the best!
Of course it’s not only what’s on offer in Dubai that makes it so appealing. There are numerous direct flights from Ireland every week so airfares are excellent value. The holiday options are endless too, you can go for a weekend break, a sun holiday or as a stop over to so many destinations. I have visited Dubai twice and have outlined my top ten things to do in Dubai below.
1. Go to the top of the Burj Khalifa
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A visit to the tallest building in the world and the highest outdoor observation deck, just has to be done. Make sure you book online before hand as queues can be long in peak season.
There are two types of tickets, the main difference is that you get to the 148th floor rather than the 124th, there is less queues and crowds and you get some nice pastries. You can judge for yourself if you think it’s worth paying the extra but either way make sure you go see it!
Check prices here
2. Check out the Dubai Mall
The largest mall in the world is not all about shopping. There is also an ice rink, an aquarium and theme parks inside. Some of the 1,200 stores include Bloomingdales, Hamleys and even Marks and Spencer.
Of course there are plenty of designer shops and high street stores too – you name it it’s here. And when you are shopped out, relax in one of the many restaurants nearby, and watch the incredible fountain show.
3. Try a unique experience
Where else can you visit a seven star hotel – actually, no where! Yes it is the ONLY seven star hotel in the world. And if like most of us you can’t afford to stay here, a dining experience is a good alternative. Luxury experience provider Viator can arrange this, along with luxury yacht charters, hot air balloon rides over the Arabian desert, and lots more.
See more here
4. Visit the new IMG World’s of Adventure
The world’s largest indoor theme park is a whopping 1.5 million square feet. Being completely enclosed, it will offer a welcome relief from the hot temperatures, particularly for families. Expect a Dinosaur adventure zone, MARVEL superhero zone with thrilling rides, live shows, movies and lots more.
Read: The best family activities in Dubai
5. Try skiing
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Another welcome retreat from the heat is the Dubai ski slope. Actually slope is probably the wrong word, resort is more like it. Located inside the Mall of the Emirates you can skiing, tobogganing, try snowboarding or just play in the snow. And if you can’t ski – don’t worry their qualified instructors are on hand if you fancy lessons.
Make sure you don’t miss the ‘March of the Penguins,’ when penguins waddle across the snow in a delightful procession. The penguin march takes place 3 to 4 times a day.
6. Go on a desert safari
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A safari in the Arabian desert can offer many different experiences. You can camel ride, go dune bashing, or enjoy a show with a BBQ. There are various trips that can be organised locally so whether you seek adrenaline pumping sand skiing or romantic star gazing, a trip to the Arabian desert is a must. Read more about our visit here:
Read: The best family activities in Dubai
7. Take the monorail to Atlantis The Palm Hotel
The best way to see the incredible structure that is Palm island, is by monorail. While you are there pop into the Atlantis hotel. This 5-star deluxe hotel has an underwater aquarium, a water park and opportunities to swim with dolphins at Dolphin Bay. The hotel offers free wifi everywhere too so this is a great opportunity to show your friends back home what they are missing!
8. Go shopping in the souks.
Most tourists flock to Dubai’s shopping malls but wandering through a bustling souk is one of Dubai’s best experiences. There are separate gold, spice, textile and perfume souks. Make sure you explore them and bear in mind a purpose built souk in a mall is not the same.
Pick up local souvenirs and jewellery but make sure you haggle, it’s all part of the experience! Bring your camera too as the souks are full of colour and offer great photo opportunities.
10. Zipline over the Dubai fountain.
This is a must for thrill-seekers. Until recently, this was by invitation only but now anyone can ride. Tickets cost AED 600 (about €150) and can be bought from the Xline ticketing counter in the Dubai Mall. I would suggest you go on your first day as it can get booked out. Make sure you have ID with you too.
So there you have it, my top ten things to do in Dubai. This is just a sample of what you can do here, I probably should have typed a top twenty list…Prices are correct at the time of issue but are subject to change.
Sarah
