The Best 15 Things to Do When Living in Dubai

Picture yourself swimming alongside sharks in one of the world’s largest suspended aquariums. Later, you’re standing atop the rugged peaks of Ras Al Khaimah, taking in the incredible views and feeling a real sense of adventure.

This is Dubai, a city where the unexpected becomes part of everyday life. It’s a place where the desert meets the sea, and where tradition and modern innovation exist side by side. While Dubai is known for its luxury and iconic skyline, there’s so much more to discover.

Beyond the famous attractions, a world of unique and unusual experiences awaits those who want to see the city and surrounding areas differently.

From exploring iconic buildings and later soaring above them, to exploring mangroves and the diverse wildlife within them – these activities will take you to the unmissable sights of Dubai, as well as beyond the usual tourist spots to some of the most memorable hidden gems.

1. Discover the Iconic Burj Khalifa

When living in Dubai you cannot miss the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Standing at an astonishing 828 meters, this architectural marvel dominates the city’s skyline and offers breathtaking views from its observation decks on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors.

Visitors can take the high-speed elevator to the top and witness panoramic vistas of Dubai’s skyline, the Arabian Gulf, and the vast desert beyond. For a truly unforgettable experience, visit at sunset to see the city bathed in golden hues.

Beyond the views, the Burj Khalifa is also home to luxurious restaurants like At.mosphere, world-class residences, and the stunning Dubai Fountain Show at its base. Whether you’re admiring it from the ground or taking in the scenery from above, the Burj Khalifa is a must-see landmark that showcases Dubai’s ambition and innovation

2. Explore the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater World

Dubai, a city renowned for its desert landscape, surprises with its remarkable underwater world at the Dubai Mall. Housing over 33,000 aquatic animals, the mall boasts one of the largest suspended aquariums globally. Here, you can immerse yourself in the marine life that thrives beneath the city’s surface. The Dubai Aquarium offers a variety of experiences, including:

-Navigating a glass-bottom boat tour

-Swimming with rays and sharks

-Watching a scuba diving show

-Feeding the fish

These experiences, led by an expert instructor, offer thrills and a splash of adventure for the whole family after moving to Dubai.

3. Ascend New Peaks: Ras Al Khaimah

Beyond the city limits of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah beckons with a rugged landscape that promises thrilling adventures. Renowned for Jebel Jais, where the world’s longest zipline is situated, Ras Al Khaimah offers an exceptional playground for rock climbing and ziplining enthusiasts.

The rugged terrain of Jebel Jais is not just for ziplining, but it also provides an excellent opportunity for rock climbing enthusiasts. Surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty, you can test your skills and push your limits, as you ascend the rocky cliffs. Whether you’re an experienced climber or a novice ready for a challenge, Ras Al Khaimah’s rock climbing experience guarantees an extraordinary adventure, challenging you to reach new heights.

4. Master the Art of Falconry in the Desert

Dubai’s desert landscape offers more than just awe-inspiring vistas. It’s a window into the rich cultural tapestry that weaves through the city’s history. One such cultural gem is the ancient practice of falconry, a historical method of hunting using birds of prey. In the Bedouin culture, falconry and falcons symbolize values of loyalty, courage, and perseverance, qualities integral to their way of life in the Middle East.

The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve offers visitors a chance to engage with these majestic birds and experience the traditional art of falconry within its historical context. As you visit the reserve, you can:

-Watch these magnificent creatures soar against the desert backdrop

-Witness the handlers’ display of skill

-Participate in a centuries-old tradition that forms the very fabric of Dubai’s rich culture

Wouldn’t it be fascinating to step back in time and sample a piece of Bedouin life amid the expansive desert sands?

5. A Night at the Opera… in the Desert

The desert, known for its silent nights, buzzes with a different kind of music as the sun sets and the Dubai Opera opens up. This versatile performance venue, that can hold up to 2,000 people, is the heart of culture and entertainment in the middle of the desert.

Here the curtains open to reveal a world-class show that transports you to a world of music, dance and drama. From Broadway-style theatre to ballet and opera, the Dubai Opera has a symphony of experiences that echo in the desert.

But the adventure doesn’t stop when the final curtain falls. As the applause dies down, you can step out into the cool desert night and continue your adventure with a camel ride under the stars. As the night gets darker and the city skyline twinkles in the distance you’ll realize that a night at the opera in the desert is not ordinary at all.

6. Expand your Culinary Tastes with Camel Milk Delicacies

Dubai’s food scene is as diverse as the landscape, with a variety of flavours for every taste. But if you want something truly unique why not go on a culinary adventure with camel milk delights? Camel milk ice cream, a delicious treat made from 3 egg yolks, maple syrup and raw or pasteurised camel milk is a taste of Dubai as exotic as it is yummy.

Creating this isn’t just about mixing ingredients, it’s about telling a story of tradition, culture and innovation, just like the city itself. As you enjoy the creamy goodness of camel milk ice cream remember you’re not just having dessert, you’re having a piece of Dubai’s culinary heritage beyond the dinner table.

7. Navigate the Dunes in a Vintage Land Rover

Want to see Dubai in a whole new way? Then driving the dunes in a vintage Land Rover is the adventure for you. With their size and off-road ability, Land Rovers are perfect for dune bashing as well as being fun for the whole family.

The best time to do this is between November and March, when the sand is firm and the weather is cool. But the desert offers unique experiences all year round. As you drive through the shifting sands remember to take care and enjoy the ride. After all, the desert is a place of surprise and adventures where every dune hides a new discovery. Buckle up and let the desert winds take you on a wild ride.

8. Cycle the City’s Hidden Tracks

Exploring Dubai isn’t just about visiting its famous landmarks but discovering its hidden gems. And what better way to uncover these secret spots than by cycling the city’s hidden tracks? From converted camel tracks to mountain bike trails, these paths offer a unique perspective of the city’s diverse landscapes.

Whether you’re taking in the views along the Dubai Creek Cycling Track or pushing your limits on the mountain biking trails in Hatta, each route offers its own unique adventure.

Grab your helmet, get on your bike, and navigate through Dubai in a way you’ve never imagined. After all, the city’s hidden tracks are waiting to be discovered, and there’s no better way to do that than on two wheels.

9. Soar Through the Skies with Paramotoring

If you’ve ever dreamed of soaring through the skies, then paramotoring in Dubai is just the adventure for you. This type of ultralight aviation allows you to take flight using a motor worn on your back, giving you a bird’s-eye view of the city and its stunning coastline.

Paramotoring is considered one of the safest forms of aviation, with the presence of a wing above you providing an additional layer of safety in the event of an engine failure. Gear up, let the wind caress your hair, and embark on a breathtaking aerial adventure.

10. Get Lost in a Maze of Mirrors

Dubai is a city full of weird and wonderful attractions, and its Maze of Mirrors is no exception. This fascinating maze, which is housed in the Museum of Illusions, tests your ability to traverse a maze of reflections and provides an amusing and challenging mind-bending experience. You’ll get trapped in a world of mirrors as you navigate the maze, where every step you take will reveal something new. Enter the labyrinth and let the mirrors guide you on a remarkable journey.

11. Encounter Exotic Wildlife on a Safari at Al Marmoom

From the city’s bustling streets to the tranquillity of its natural landscapes, Dubai offers a diverse range of experiences that cater to every kind of adventurer. And for those who prefer the call of the wild, a safari at Al Marmoom offers an unforgettable encounter with the city’s exotic wildlife.

Whether you’re admiring the Arabian oryx or bird-spotting, a safari at Al Marmoom offers a whole new view of the city’s wildlife. Grab your binoculars and get ready for a wild ride that takes you beyond the city limits and into the heart of Dubai’s diverse environments.

12. Indulge in a Secret Dining Experience

After a day of adventures, what could be better than a delicious meal? But this isn’t just any meal; it’s a secret dining experience that takes you on a culinary journey through Dubai’s diverse food scene. These exclusive dining events relocate chefs and fine dining dishes from conventional restaurants to various public or private venues, creating an atmosphere of mystery and exclusivity.

Whether you’re indulging in high-end South Asian dishes or rich Spanish flavours, the clandestine dining events in Dubai offer an experience that goes beyond the plate. Sit back, grab a drink and get ready for a dining experience as unique as Dubai itself.

13. Create Your Own Fragrance at a Perfume Workshop

Dubai is a city that engages all senses, and its perfume workshops are no exception. Here, you can immerse yourself in the art of fragrance creation, learning about the various techniques and blending essential oils to create your own signature scent.

Whether you’re a perfume connoisseur or a novice, these workshops provide a unique opportunity to delve into the world of fragrances and create a scent that is uniquely yours.

14. Stroll Through History at the Coffee Museum

Dubai’s Coffee Museum offers a unique opportunity to delve into the history of this beloved beverage. Here, you can explore a collection of historical coffee items, learn about the journey of the coffee bean, and even sample traditional brews.

From the moment you step into the museum, you’ll be transported back in time, immersing yourself in the rich history of coffee and its significance in cultures around the world. Grab a cup of coffee and journey back in time at this fascinating museum.

15. Traverse the Mangroves in Eastern UAE

The adventure continues as you venture beyond the city limits and into the mangroves of Eastern UAE. Known for their unique ecosystem and diverse wildlife, these mangroves offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city.

Whether you’re exploring the mangroves on a guided tour or simply taking in the serene surroundings, this experience offers a glimpse of the region’s natural beauty that’s as captivating as it is peaceful. Venture into the wilderness, and let the mangroves of Eastern UAE carry you to a world that is anything but ordinary.

Moving to UAE / Dubai?

Dubai is a city of contrasts, a fusion of old and new, where desert meets sea and the ordinary becomes extraordinary. You’ve seen some pretty remarkable things on this journey. From an underwater world to mountain peaks, from a hall of mirrors to creating your own fragrance, Dubai is a mosaic of unforgettable experiences.

But Dubai’s magic goes beyond these one-offs. It’s a city in constant change, always pushing boundaries and defying expectations. Whether you’re an intrepid explorer or a curious newcomer, Dubai wants you to join the journey of discovery and step into a world where the extraordinary is around every corner.

Eager to start your Dubai adventure? Visit our Removals to Dubai page. With Simpsons International Removals, your transition to Dubai isn’t just a move – it’s the start of an extraordinary new chapter. Let us help you turn your Dubai dream into a reality.