Best things to do in Dubai

Dubai Creek

The natural seawater inlet that cuts through the centre of the city is the historical part of Dubai where visitors can take an abra (small water taxi) and view the old trading port and the dhows from the water. A cruise to Al-Maktoum Bridge will pass many of the city's historic, as well as modern landmarks. A stroll around the wharf offers a picturesque glimpse of Dubai's trading heritage, where dhows bound for distant places dock to unload their goods.

Al Fahidi Historic District

The Al Fahidi Historic District (formerly known as the Bastakiya Quarter) allows visitors to step back in time to the days before electricity and air-conditioning, when traditional, courtyard houses were cooled by wind towers. Indeed, Old Dubai was famous for the wind towers that lined the Creek on both sides and, today, the narrow lanes festooned with the distinctively Arabian architecture are a popular historical attraction. The charming neighbourhood is home to the popular café, the Arabian Tea House, and has several art galleries.

Dubai Souks

The souks, or traditional markets, are popular with bargain hunters as well as sightseers and photographers. The most famous is the Gold Souk, where the narrow streets are lined with shops selling everything golden, from 24-carat bars to rings and elaborate necklaces, and all at low prices. The tiny lanes of the traditional spice souk are scented with sacks of cinnamon, incense, spices, and dried fruit, while the modern fish souk bustles with activity and is redolent with smells of a more unpleasant nature. Other streets sell everything from materials and carpets to traditional coffee pots, loaves of unleavened bread and hubble-bubble pipes.

Address Both sides of the Creek, in Deira and Bur Dubai

Grand Mosque

Boasting the city's tallest minaret at 230 feet (70m), the Grand Mosque is a notable landmark with its multi-domed style and impressive size. It is an important place of worship and can accommodate up to 1,200 worshippers inside. Non-Muslims are not permitted inside the Mosque but can enter the minaret to admire the building's architecture. Visitors should dress conservatively when entering the premises, keeping their heads and knees covered. Women should wear loose clothing with long sleeves.

Wild Wadi

One of the most advanced water theme parks ever designed, the five-hectare (12-acre) water park at Wild Wadi offers families and thrill seekers hours of fun, relaxation and adrenalin-pumping action. Designed like an Arabian wadi (oasis), the park has an Arabian folklore theme and features some of the highest and fastest water rides outside of North America with 24 state of the art, high-adrenaline rides and slides. Rides for thrill seekers include Jumeirah Sceirah, a 108ft (33m) free-fall at 50 miles per hour (80km/hr), Master Blaster slides that are water roller coasters propelled uphill by high-powered jets, the white-knuckle ride at Rushdown Ravine or the high waves at Breakers Bay.

Address Jumeirah Beach Road, between the Jumeirah Beach Hotel and the Burj Al Arab Hotel

Website www.wildwadi.com

Musandam

While Musandam is technically part of Oman, the tiny peninsula is all but surrounded by the United Arab Emirates. The barren mountains that make up most of Musandam are home to a few isolated villages; Khasab is the largest and has a few cultural attractions such as prehistoric rock paintings and a 17th-century castle. Tourists visit the area for the spectacular views and quiet beauty of nature. The coastline of the peninsula is made up of stunning fjord-like inlets, with dhow and boat trips along the coast being a popular activity in Musandam.

Jumeirah Mosque

The Jumeirah Mosque is one of the most photographed sights in Dubai. A fine example of modern Islamic architecture, this beautiful mosque is also one of the city's largest, with a majestic dome and twin minarets, and, as its motto, 'Open doors, open minds', suggests, is one of the few mosques open to non-Muslims for tours. Non-Muslims may only enter the Jumeirah Mosque on an organised tour. Modest dress is preferred, and traditional attire can be borrowed from the Mosque.

Address Al Jumeirah Road

Dubai Museum

The imposing 18th-century Al Fahidi Fort houses the Dubai Museum, which has an impressive collection of military and cultural artefacts, as well as working models and life-size displays depicting various aspects of Dubai life such as the markets, an Islamic school, the desert, Arab houses and Gulf marine life. One of the most interesting exhibits shows the underwater world of pearl diving. The fort was built in 1787 to guard Dubai from landward approaches, and was once the residence of the city's rulers as well as the seat of government until 1971.

Address Al Fahidi Fort

Website www.dubaiculture.gov.ae/en/Live-Our-Heritage/Pages/Dubai-Museum-and-Al-Fahidi-Fort.aspx

Sharjah

Sharjah is the third largest of the UAE's cities, and is the capital of the wealthy Sharjah emirate. Many of the headline attractions are within the Heritage Area near the main cornice. Here visitors can explore the Al Hisn Fort and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, both worth experiencing to counterbalance the Emirate's more modern, consumer culture face. Nearby Khalid Lagoon has a water fountain that spouts 160 feet (100m) into the air, making it one of the largest fountains in the world. The Eye of the Emirates on the edge of the city is a giant wheel that offers spectacular views over the downtown and cornice attractions.

Ski Dubai

One of the city's newest and most interesting attractions is the region's first indoor ski resort, with real snow and five runs catering to both beginner and expert skiers and snowboarders. The monumental indoor snowdome can host up to 1,500 people. The longest run is 1,312 feet (400m), dropping 197 feet (60m), while a freestyle zone and quarter pipe cater specifically for snowboarders. Ski lifts, snow patrols and professional instructors help to create an authentic environment. A Snow Park at the bottom is ideal for children to play in the snow. Slope passes include all equipment and ski clothing except hats and gloves. Guests need to pass a minimum skills test to access the main slopes, and those who don't pass can take lessons.

Address Sheikh Zayed Rd, Mall of the Emirates

Website www.skidxb.com

Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum Museum

Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum's house dates back to the 19th century, and was built for Dubai's ruler with commanding views over the sea. It is one of the oldest residences in the city and has been restored as a museum exhibiting historical photographs and artefacts showcasing Dubai's history and development. Its architecture is also a fine example of the regional style with its wind towers and central courtyard, teak wood doors and windows and wooden lattice screens.

Desert Safari

For a real taste of Arabia, visitors can take a trip into the desert with any number of tour operators into the rolling sand dunes surrounding Dubai. Tours usually include a thrilling 4x4 drive over the dunes, camel riding, a visit to a local Bedouin village, and end with a traditional Arabian barbeque under the stars with a show of belly dancing.

Camel Racing

No visit to Dubai would be complete without a trip to the camel races. This is a traditional sport in the UAE and hugely popular among local Emiratis, who head to the race tracks early in the morning to watch these magnificent animals. The racing season runs from October to April and racetracks can be found in various locations around the Emirate and on the way to Abu Dhabi.

Website www.dcrc.ae/

Jumeirah Beach Park

One of the main reasons holidaymakers flock to Dubai is to take advantage of the stunning beaches. If visitors aren't staying somewhere with access to the sand and sea, and don't want to pay AED 100 or more to use a hotel's facilities, then Jumeirah Beach Park is a brilliant alternative. The beaches are clean and safe, and unlike some of the other public areas in Dubai, are not populated with 'gawkers'. There are even designated 'women only' sessions. The park section of the beach is equipped with barbecue facilities and seating areas. There are also showers and toilets on the beach, and lifeguards on duty at all times.

Address Opposite Chilli's Restaurant on the Beach Road, Jumeirah

Website www.dubaicity.com/jumeirah-beach-park/

Bateaux Dubai Dinner Cruise

The Bateaux Dubai Dinner Cruise provides visitors to the Emirate with a unique and memorable way in which to view the older part of Dubai. The two and a half hour cruise departs from just beyond the Al Maktoum Bridge and makes its way along the Creek past many of the city's most famous landmarks. Guests can take advantage of unobstructed views thanks to the non-reflective glass surround and extensive outside deck area. A four-course a-la-carte meal is served during the cruise (diners with specific dietary requirements are requested to arrange at the time of booking) and alcohol is available to purchase on board.

Dubai Mall

Opened in November 2008, the Dubai Mall is the world's largest shopping centre and is home to around twelve hundred retailers. It is the size of more than fifty football pitches and features an ice rink, movie theatres, playground, aquarium, hotel, and is the gateway to the Burj Dubai: the tallest building in the world. The mall has some of the best-known stores under its roof, and there are a number of restaurants, ranging from fast food to fine dining.

Address Financial Centre Road (Interchange 1), Dubai

Website www.thedubaimall.com

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Located in the enormous Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is fast becoming one of the Emirates' most popular attractions. Featuring the largest viewing panel and one of the biggest tanks in the world, visitors have the opportunity to experience the incredible underwater domain of thousands of creatures of the deep. Highlights include feeding time for the enormous Sand Tiger Sharks and the majestic Stingrays. The aquarium and zoo is home to over thirty thousand types of sea life and, with the help of its conservation team, looks to bring about positive change through active participation in environmental initiatives.

Address Dubai Mall, Financial Centre Road (Interchange 1), Dubai

Website www.thedubaiaquarium.com

Al Nasr Leisureland

Its name stemming from the Arabic word for 'victory', Al Nasr Leisureland lies on a 48-acre site and offers facilities that cater to just about every sport under the sun. An Olympic-sized ice rink, tennis courts, a bowling alley and a list of swimming pools that includes the largest in the country (it has a wave function), an aqua pool with slides and a baby pool are some of the options on the menu. Children will have a great time trying their hand at everything. There is even an amusement park with bumper cars, rollercoasters, go-karting and much more.

Website www.alnasrll.com

Children's City

This 82,890-square-foot (7,700 sq-metre) education park is located in Dubai Creek Park and offers a wide range of activities geared towards kids of all ages, making the educational process fun. Among other things, children can learn all about nature, human body sciences, earth sciences, space exploration, and local and international culture. The park also presents daily educational programs throughout the year, and features a theatre, café, souvenir shop, different galleries and purpose-built halls. Visitors can enjoy wonderful views of the creek as well.

Address Dubai Creek Park

Website childrencity.dm.gov.ae/en/Pages/default.aspx

Wonderland

Wonderland Theme and Water Park in Dubai Creek Park is a must for children struggling with the heat in this scorching city. The Caribbean-themed park offers thrilling rides and slides such as the Red Baron, the spinning-coaster, the Action Arm, Lazy River and Surf Hill. The attached water park is low-tech, but provides cool entertainment for the whole family. Wonderland is a great way to spend the day with the family and a must for children of all ages.

Address Dubai Creek Park

Creekside Park

With its marvellous green scenery and cool sea breezes, Creekside Park is a great place for families and kids to enjoy while on holiday in Dubai. Boasting botanical gardens, an 18-hole mini golf course, an amphitheatre, picnic locations with barbecue equipment and a mini train and children's play areas, this seemingly endless lawn is the perfect place to spend the day. Kids will be beside themselves with the endless amount of activities to enjoy here.

Hatta

An ancient village positioned in the foothills of the Hajjar Mountains, Hatta is located about 71 miles (115km) east of Dubai. A popular weekend getaway for residents of the city, Hatta has a mild climate that makes it ideal for escaping the heat of Dubai. The 16th-century fort is a must-see and Hatta also makes a good base for exploring the surrounding region. Off-road 4x4 adventures are a popular way to take in the scenery, including the Wadi Hatta gorge with its magnificent waterfall and picturesque rock pools.

Kish

The beautiful island of Kish is located in the Persian Gulf, off the southern shore of mainland Iran. Sometimes referred to as the 'Pearl of the Persian Gulf', Kish is home to a resort with both modern and ancient attractions. The resort takes advantage of Kish's stunning islands to offer water sports such as snorkeling and scuba diving, yachting, fishing, parasailing and water-skiing. Unfortunately, women are not allowed in some of the best snorkelling areas, though women-only beaches available. Kish also has a number of historical attractions, including the underground town of Cariz and the ancient city of Harireh.

Dubai Marina

The heart of cosmopolitan Dubai is the slick and modern Dubai Marina, a development that continues to add new attractions each year. World-class hotels and shopping malls dominate the distinctive skyline, while the waterline is taken over by luxury yachts. Some of the best restaurants in Dubai are also located here. Dubai Marina has two walkways (The Walk and Marina Walk) that make pleasant places to stroll in the evening, and there are open markets on weekends between October and May. Although it is known as a beacon of over-the-top consumerism, the Dubai Marina transforms during Ramadan, when locals celebrate in song and dance in Heritage Village.

Things to do in Dubai

Dubai Creek

Al Fahidi Historic District

Dubai Souks

Grand Mosque

Wild Wadi

Musandam

Jumeirah Mosque

Dubai Museum

Sharjah

Ski Dubai

Sheikh Saeed Al-Maktoum Museum

Desert Safari

Camel Racing

Jumeirah Beach Park

Bateaux Dubai Dinner Cruise

Dubai Mall

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Al Nasr Leisureland

Children's City

Wonderland

Creekside Park

Hatta

Kish

Dubai Marina