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Top activities in Dubai for 2025 include visiting the Burj Khalifa, exploring the Museum of the Future, enjoying thrill rides at IMG Worlds of Adventure, and shopping at the Dubai Mall. You can also witness the Dubai Fountain show, walk through the Dubai Frame, and relax on Jumeirah Beach. Hidden gems like the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and Alserkal Avenue offer cultural experiences, while outdoor adventures such as desert safaris, skydiving over Palm Jumeirah, and hot air balloon rides add unforgettable excitement to Dubai tour itineraries.
Dubai in 2025 feels like a city determined to outdo itself yet again! Every year, it raises the bar higher with futuristic attractions, record-breaking landmarks, and cultural experiences that leave visitors wondering how much more it can offer. Whether you are planning your first trip or returning to see what has changed, the city promises something new around every corner.
If you’ve been asking yourself, “What to see in Dubai in 2025?”, the answer is not a short one. Beyond its glittering skyline and famous shopping avenues, Dubai is a playground of contrasts. The desert dunes give way to waterparks, cutting-edge museums sit beside heritage souks, and natural escapes like the Hatta Mountains are just a short drive away.
This guide not only covers famous places to visit in Dubai, such as the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Frame but also takes you through thrilling activities, cultural highlights, and offbeat gems that define the spirit of the city.
And if you’re curious about “What are the major events in Dubai in 2025?”, we’ll help you plan your trip around festivals, shows, and experiences that make the city even more alive.
Top Attractions & Activities – Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, Museum of the Future, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Opera, Aquaventure Waterpark (Atlantis The Palm), IMG Worlds of Adventure, Dubai Parks & Resorts, The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates & Ski Dubai, Global Village, Bluewaters Island & Ain Dubai, Desert Safari & Dune Bashing, Skydiving over Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina Yacht Cruise
Hidden Gems & Cultural Experiences – Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Gold & Spice Souks, Alserkal Avenue, Dubai Miracle Garden, Hatta Mountains, Dubai Safari Park, The Green Planet
Other Activities – KidZania Dubai, Hot Air Balloon Ride, Jumeirah & Kite Beach
Iconic Landmarks & City Highlights of Dubai
1. Burj Khalifa
No list is complete without the tallest building in the world, rising 828 metres and offering unmatched views of Dubai’s futuristic skyline. Observation decks on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors of Burj Khalifa include high-powered telescopes for a detailed city panorama.
- Opening Hours: Open 24 hours
- Location: Downtown Dubai
2. Dubai Frame
Standing 150 metres tall, Dubai Frame lets visitors walk across a glass bridge overlooking both Old Dubai and New Dubai. The museum on the lower floor details the city’s history, while interactive exhibits showcase Dubai’s 50-year future plans.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Location: Zabeel Park
3. Museum of the Future
An architectural marvel shaped like a hollow ring, the Museum of the Future is one of the most unique places to visit in Dubai, showcasing space exploration, AI-driven simulations, and futuristic healthcare concepts. Visitors can step into themed exhibitions like “Tomorrow Today” or the immersive “Journey to the Future”.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Location: Sheikh Zayed Road
4. Palm Jumeirah
This palm-tree-shaped artificial island is home to Atlantis The Palm, luxury beach clubs, and exclusive rooftop dining venues. This is one of the best places to visit in Dubai with your family, with activities for everyone, including monorail rides along the trunk, skydiving over the island, or beachside relaxation facing the Arabian Gulf.
- Best Time to Visit: All year round
- Location: Jumeirah Coast
5. Dubai Opera
Shaped like a traditional dhow, Dubai Opera remains one of Dubai’s most iconic cultural venues, hosting everything from ballets and operas to international concerts. If you are trying to find what are the major events in Dubai in 2025, this stage is where many of them will unfold. Highlights already announced include Grease the Musical in October and BJÖRN AGAIN in November, along with a line-up of global orchestras and touring productions that make it the city’s artistic heartbeat.
- Opening Hours: Depends on event timings
- Location: Downtown Dubai
Theme Parks & Family Experiences in Dubai
6. IMG Worlds of Adventure
Spanning 1.5 million square feet, IMG Worlds is the largest indoor theme park, offering Marvel, Cartoon Network, and Lost Valley dinosaur-themed rides. While thrill-seekers head to the Velociraptor roller coaster, Ben 10 attractions keep younger ones entertained, creating one of the most enjoyable things to do in Dubai with kids.
- Opening Hours: 12:00 PM – 10:00 PM (weekdays), till 11:00 PM (weekends)
- Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
7. Aquaventure Waterpark, Atlantis The Palm
Aquaventure offers 105 water slides and attractions, including the Leap of Faith, a near-vertical slide through a shark-filled lagoon. Visitors can also explore Dolphin Bay, splash in kid-friendly pools, or relax on Atlantis’ private beach stretch.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM
- Location: Atlantis, Palm Jumeirah
8. Dubai Parks & Resorts
This integrated resort features Motiongate for Hollywood rides, LEGOLAND for interactive family fun, and Riverland for themed dining. Special seasonal parades and Bollywood dance shows make it one of the 25 best things to do in Dubai, UAE, 2025 for families.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (varies by park)
- Location: Jebel Ali
9. The Green Planet
This biodome recreates a tropical rainforest with over 3,000 plants and animals, including giant pythons, sloths, and toucans. Visitors can walk across suspension bridges and explore educational exhibits about rainforest sustainability.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Location: City Walk
10. KidZania Dubai
Spread across 7,000 square metres inside The Dubai Mall, KidZania lets children role-play as pilots, doctors, chefs, or firefighters. Kids earn a unique “KidZos” currency while learning practical life skills in an engaging, safe environment.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM (weekdays), till 11:00 PM (weekends)
- Location: The Dubai Mall
Desert & Outdoor Adventures in Dubai
11. Desert Safari & Dune Bashing
A Dubai classic, desert safaris include thrilling 4×4 dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel rides across red dunes. Evenings feature live belly dance, Tanoura shows, and Arabian buffet dinners under the stars.
- Best Time to Visit: October–March, late afternoons
- Location: Arabian Desert
12. Hot Air Balloon Ride
Soar above the Margham Desert at sunrise, spotting gazelles and camels against dramatic desert backdrops. Most rides also include falconry displays and gourmet breakfasts after landing.
- Best Time to Visit: October–April, sunrise hours
- Location: Margham Desert
13. Dubai Marina Yacht Cruise
Luxury cruises allow guests to sail past Dubai Marina, Ain Dubai, Bluewaters, and Burj Al Arab and are especially included in most Dubai honeymoon tour packages for their popularity among couples. Many packages include live BBQ dinners, onboard DJs, or private yacht experiences.
- Opening Hours: Multiple slots daily
- Location: Dubai Marina
Also Read: More Romantic Experiences in Dubai
14. Skydiving over Palm Jumeirah
Skydiving at 13,000 feet offers a 60-second freefall over Palm Jumeirah’s world-famous design. Professional instructors accompany first-timers, while high-definition videos capture the experience.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 12:00 PM (weather dependent)
- Location: Skydive Dubai, Dubai Marina
15. Jumeirah & Kite Beach
Known for pristine sand and water sports, Kite Beach also features kitesurfing, jogging tracks, and food trucks. Visitors can enjoy uninterrupted views of the Burj Al Arab while relaxing by the shore.
- Opening Hours: Public beaches open 24 hrs
- Location: Jumeirah Coastline
Shopping, Lifestyle & Events in Dubai
16. The Dubai Mall
One of the world’s largest malls, it houses 1,200+ shops, Dubai Aquarium, VR Park, and a giant indoor ice rink. The nightly Dubai Fountain show outside adds a free attraction for visitors, making it one of the top nighttime spots to explore in Dubai.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM (Monday to Thursday), till 12:00 AM (Friday to Sunday)
- Location: Downtown Dubai
17. Gold & Spice Souks
Deira’s traditional markets showcase intricate gold jewellery and aromatic spices from saffron to frankincense. Bargaining with shopkeepers here is a cultural experience worth trying.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Location: Deira
18. Global Village
This seasonal fairground has 90+ country pavilions selling food, crafts, and souvenirs from across the world. Live entertainment ranges from circus acts to international music concerts, making it ideal for “What to see in Dubai in 2025?”.
- Best Time to Visit: October–April evenings
- Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road
19. Mall of the Emirates & Ski Dubai
This shopping hub houses Ski Dubai, a 22,500-square-metre snow park offering some of the best indoor activities for kids in Dubai, such as skiing, snowboarding, and penguin encounters. Luxury brands and fine dining round out the experience.
- Opening Hours: 10:00 AM – 12:00 AM (weekdays), 9:00 AM – 12:00 AM (weekends)
- Location: Al Barsha
20. Bluewaters Island & Ain Dubai
Bluewaters hosts Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest observation wheel, offering sweeping skyline views. The island also features celebrity-chef restaurants, retail outlets, and trendy lounges.
- Opening Hours: Public access 24 hrs, attractions vary
- Location: Off JBR, Dubai Marina
Hidden Gems & Offbeat Spots
21. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
This restored district features narrow alleys, wind-tower houses, and cultural centres showcasing Emirati heritage. The Dubai Museum and Coffee Museum here provide insights into local traditions.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Location: Bur Dubai
22. Dubai Miracle Garden
Home to 150 million flowers, the garden displays life-sized floral structures like the Emirates Airbus A380 and Disney characters. It is one of the most colourful unique places to visit in Dubai during the winter months.
- Best Time to Visit: November–March
- Location: Dubailand
23. Alserkal Avenue
This creative hub is filled with art galleries, experimental cafés, and performance spaces. Exhibitions range from contemporary Middle Eastern artists to global installations, making it a hotspot for cultural events.
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Location: Al Quoz
24. Hatta Mountains
Located 90 minutes from Dubai, Hatta offers hiking trails, mountain biking, and kayaking in turquoise waters of Hatta Dam. The Hatta Heritage Village showcases restored stone houses and watchtowers.
- Best Time to Visit: October–March
- Location: Hatta
25. Dubai Safari Park
Home to 3,000 animals, the park features African, Asian, and Arabian villages with safari-style tours. Families can see lions, elephants, and giraffes while learning about conservation.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
- Location: Al Warqa 5
From the dazzling heights of Burj Khalifa to the floral wonders of Miracle Garden, these 25 best things to do in Dubai combine record-breaking attractions, seasonal events, and cultural discoveries. Those planning for the major events in Dubai in 2025 can expect a packed calendar of concerts, sports championships, and cultural festivals.
To explore every corner without missing the essentials, browse Thrillophilia’s Dubai tour packages that cover iconic landmarks, desert adventures, and hidden gems for travellers of every interest.
FAQs:
Q1. What is the number one thing to do in Dubai?
Ans- While Dubai offers countless experiences, the Desert Safari is often ranked as the number one activity for families. It combines adventure with culture – from dune bashing and sandboarding to camel rides and traditional Bedouin performances – making it exciting for all age groups.
Q2. What is the theme of the year 2025 in the UAE?
Ans- The UAE’s 2025 theme focuses on “Innovation and Sustainable Growth”, highlighting the nation’s commitment to technology, renewable energy, and forward-thinking urban development. Visitors can see this reflected in Dubai’s eco-friendly attractions, futuristic architecture, and smart city initiatives.
Q3. Is Dubai safe for families to visit?
Ans- Yes, Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world for tourists. Strict laws, low crime rates, and family-oriented facilities make it ideal for travellers with children. Most attractions, malls, beaches, and parks are well-supervised, ensuring peace of mind for parents.
Q4. How many days are ideal for a family trip to Dubai?
Ans- A 4 – 6 day itinerary is ideal for families to explore Dubai comfortably. This allows time for theme parks, desert adventures, cultural visits, and a bit of shopping or relaxation at beaches without feeling rushed.
Q5. Are there indoor activities in Dubai for family during hot weather?
Ans- Absolutely. There are several indoor attractions in Dubai perfect for families, such as IMG Worlds of Adventure, KidZania, The Green Planet, and Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. These air-conditioned experiences keep children engaged while escaping the summer heat.