A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Dubai Weekend Activities

Dubai is an amazing city located in the United Arab Emirates on the Arabian Peninsula. It is known for its modern architecture, luxury lifestyle, and bustling tourism industry. It is also home to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and is home to the world’s only 7-star hotel, the Burj Al Arab. Dubai is an incredibly vibrant city with a wide range of activities to enjoy over a weekend. From exploring the desert, to shopping, to trying out unique culinary experiences, there is something for everyone in Dubai.

History of Dubai

Dubai has a long and rich history that dates back to 600 BC. It was originally a fishing village and pearl diving center, and it remained that way until the 1700s when it began to flourish due to its strategic location at the crossroads of trade routes and its access to the Persian Gulf. By the mid-1900s, it had become a major port of call for merchants and seafarers from all over the world.

The modern city of Dubai was established in 1971 when it became one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. Since then, it has become an economic powerhouse, fueled by its booming trade, construction, tourism, and financial sectors. It is now one of the world’s most visited tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year.

What to Do in Dubai

There are countless things to do in Dubai – from discovering its rich cultural heritage, to exploring its many shopping options, to sunbathing at its glamorous beaches. Here are some of the best activities and attractions in Dubai to enjoy over the weekend:

Visit the Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building and a must-see attraction in Dubai. Located in Downtown Dubai, the tower stands at an impressive 828 meters and offers stunning views of the city below. Visit one of the observation decks on the 124th or 125th floor for a breathtaking view of Dubai’s skyline.

Explore the Souks

The souks (markets) of Dubai are a great place to explore and find unique souvenirs and trinkets. Take a stroll through the Gold Souk and check out the dazzling jewelry displayed in the hundreds of tiny shops, or browse the colorful fabrics in the Textile Souk. The Spice Souk is also worth a visit – you’ll find an array of exotic spices and herbs here.

Visit Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah is an artificial island in Dubai that was constructed in the shape of a palm tree. It is home to luxury resorts, hotels, shopping malls, and other attractions. Spend a day walking along the boardwalk or take an abra (water taxi) ride around the island.

Go Skiing

Yes, you can go skiing in Dubai! The Mall of the Emirates has an indoor ski resort with five ski runs, chairlifts, and snowboarding facilities. It also has its own ski school and restaurants, making it an ideal weekend activity for those who want to experience skiing without having to travel too far.

Go on a Desert Safari

No trip to Dubai would be complete without a desert safari. Get your adrenaline pumping with a thrilling dune bashing experience or go on a camel ride through the sand dunes. You can also take part in traditional activities such as falconry, henna painting, and belly dancing.

Go Shopping

Dubai is home to some of the world’s most luxurious shopping malls. From designer labels to unique souvenirs, you can find it all here. Visit Mall of The Emirates for designer clothing stores, The Dubai Mall for gadgets and electronics, or Deira City Centre for traditional wares.

Popular Tours in Dubai

In addition to all these activities, there are many popular tours available in Dubai which offer an insight into its rich culture and history. Here are two popular tours you should consider:

Dubai City Tour

The Dubai City Tour is a great way to explore some of the city’s top attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Museum, Jumeirah Mosque, and more. The tour also includes stops at some of Dubai’s famous landmarks such as Burj Al Arab and Palm Jumeirah. This tour is perfect for those who want to get an overview of the city in just one day. Book a Dubai City Tour here.

Desert Safari

For those looking for an adventure, the Desert Safari is a great option. This tour takes you deep into the Arabian Desert where you can go sand boarding, camel riding, enjoy a traditional barbecue dinner under the stars, and watch a captivating belly dancing performance. Book a Desert Safari here.

Conclusion

Dubai is an incredible city with plenty of activities to enjoy over a weekend, from taking in the skyline from one of world’s tallest buildings to exploring its ancient souks and going on a desert safari. Whether you’re looking for an adventure or just want to relax on one of its stunning beaches, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.