A Love of Indoors and Outdoors: Activities for All Seasons in Dubai

From Burj Khalifa to shopping malls and recently awarded Michelin-starred restaurants, Dubai has always been committed to offering a variety of activities for international visitors.

Dubai is widely regarded as one of the top 2022 tourist cities, spending close to $300 billion by international tourists in Dubai in 2022, according to the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC).

Here are some of the many attractions to offer as the city continues to grow.

Dubai cements its position as a culinary hub and is ready for a Michelin star

1. Visit the Museum of the Future

Since its opening in February, the Museum of the Future has become a popular stop on the UAE’s Cultural Route. The striking 78-metre-tall building in Downtown Dubai spans seven floors and covers topics such as space travel and living, climate change and ecology, health, wellness, and spirituality. Information is presented in a variety of innovative forms – from state-of-the-art exhibitions and interactive installations to robots.

2. Dine at a Michelin-starred restaurant

View of Hakkasan Dubai at Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai

Last year, Dubai launched its first MICHELIN Guide, successfully joining the global culinary landscape. A total of 14 restaurants received Michelin stars this year, of which the city now has 11 one-star and 3 two-star restaurants, as well as 17 “value for money” Bib Gourmand recommended restaurants. Recommended restaurants include Hakkasan, Osiano and Brasserie Boulud.

Dazzling Dubai craves gastronomic fame

3. Watch a show at Dubai Opera

Now in its sixth year, Dubai Opera remains the city’s most prestigious performing arts venue; and hosted a number of legendary shows. According to CNN, this state-of-the-art building took more than 3 years and cost more than $3 million to build. From the famous Les Misérables, the towering Verdi to the graceful spin of Giselle, some of the world’s most famous talents from the art world have performed at Dubai Opera. This month, the Georgia National Ballet’s Romeo and Juliet will be staged.

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4. Experience the Aura Skypool

Aura Skypool is more than just a picture of your phone wallpaper. Surrounding the 50th floor of the Palm Tower at Palm Jumeirah, the pool is 200 metres high and is the world’s tallest 360-degree infinity pool. Enjoy views of Dubai Marina, Bluewaters Island, Jumeirah Beach and Palm Jumeirah.

5. Alserkal Avenue Art Day

Interior view of the gallery on Alserkal Avenue in the Al-Quoz district. These transformed warehouses are now a thriving arts community with artisanal coffee shops, artist showrooms and galleries, visual and performing arts organizations, designers, and more. Alserkal Avenue has become a platform to showcase the UAE’s diverse and emerging artists and cultural practitioners. The area is particularly exciting during Dubai Art Week, becoming one of the official venues for various lectures and exhibitions.

6. Visit the Mina Bazaar

This foreigner bazaar feels like moving from the streets of Mumbai to the UAE. Explore the area’s Indian street food bars, jewelry and clothing stores, and even grocery stores selling homegrown goods. The area is especially lively during Hindu and Muslim festivals such as Diwali and Eid al-Fitr.

7. Desert horseback riding

To get away from the city and experience something different, explore Dubai’s equestrian heritage on horseback riding in the desert. Try the Al Jiyad Stables, home to 120 Arabian horses, and explore the nearby Al Marmoom Desert Reserve and Al Qudra Lake.

8. Explore the global village

Dubai’s popular seasonal theme park is a must-visit during the cooler months due to its lively atmosphere. Men, women and children flock to the global village to enjoy food stalls, shops, playground rides and games, as well as live performances. The Global Village will return in October with 10 pavilions and a brand new concept called “The Way to Asia”, which will be a dedicated street with food kiosks from 27 Asian countries.

9. Try a walk around the edge of the Dubai Sky Observation Deck

If you’re feeling adventurous, try Edge-Walk, a thrilling skywalk experience not unlike the CN Tower in Toronto and the Sky View Hotel in Dubai. Located on the 52nd floor of a luxury hotel, Sky Views Dubai offers visitors stunning views of the city, with the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, within easy reach.