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Do you need clarification about what to do in the UAE in 2024? Then, let us tell you that there are various things to do in the UAE that you can experience. The United Arab Emirates, with a reputation for being the top luxury cosmopolitan, is hard to imagine that, being an Islamic country, it practices open-mindedness. A collection of seven emirates within one large country, it has become one of the must-visit destinations for millions of visitors over the past few decades due to a list of numerous fun things to do in the UAE.
UAE's popularity has only grown as cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi developed, adding huge glass skyscrapers, impressive hotels, shopping malls, beach resorts, and attractions for couples, families, and individuals. The year-round sunshine is a fantastic scene and invites people, so it is easy to see why visitors keep returning year after year to experience some of the top things to do in the UAE. But each Emirate has a distinctive offering to explore.
Why UAE is a Popular Tourist Destination?
Over the past decade, the United Arab Emirates has emerged as a preferred travel destination in the Middle East for global travellers. Recent statistics highlight that the UAE, especially Dubai, has attracted the most significant share of tourists to numerous destinations in the Arab world and is home to some of the fun things to do in the UAE.
- Iconic Landmarks— The country hosts some of the world's most iconic landmarks, like the Burj Khalifa, the tallest skyscraper, and the Burj Al Arab, a lavish 7-star hotel. It offers an opportunity to do free things in the UAE.
- Cultural Diversity— The UAE is said to be a melting pot of cultures, with people arriving and living from all over the world and working there. This cultural diversity is mirrored in the cuisine, festivals, and art, creating a distinct mix of traditions and modernity with various fun things to do in UAE with family and friends.
- Beautiful Beaches— Stunning beaches grace cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi's coastline. These coastal destinations provide sun and sand, an array of water sports, beach resorts, and lively nightlife.
- Adventure Activities— The UAE's desert landscape provides ample opportunities for adventure enthusiasts, offering many things to do in the UAE. Tourists can dune bashing, sandboarding, or camel riding in the desert.
- World-Class Shopping— The UAE is a shoppers' paradise thanks to its many mega malls, including the Dubai Mall, which ranks among the world's largest. Experience some top things to do in the UAE with a UAE Visa. These shopping points provide diverse shopping experiences encompassing high-end brands and local markets like the Gold Souk.
- Year-Round Sunshine— The country enjoys a sunny and warm climate all year, making it an attractive destination for travellers seeking a break from cold or rainy weather. Below are some of the best things to do with family and friends in the UAE.
- Safety and Infrastructure— Renowned for its safety and contemporary infrastructure, the nation sustains a relatively low crime rate while holding high-quality standards in transportation, accommodation, and healthcare facilities.
- Cultural Attractions— While the UAE is best known for its modernity, it also preserves its rich cultural heritage. The country offers some of the best things to do in the UAE at night. The country's emirates offer historical sites, museums, and traditional neighbourhoods for travellers to explore.
- World-Class Events— The UAE hosts various international events and exhibitions, including the Dubai World Expo and the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. Experience the top things to do in the UAE with family.
- Accessibility— The UAE's strategic location in the Middle East makes it a convenient stopover for travellers between Europe, Asia, and Africa. Some well-connected airports, such as Dubai International Airport, facilitate easy travel.
Fun Things to Do in the UAE to Create a Memorable Adventure
Here, we have listed some of the fun things to do in the UAE that you should consider before planning your itinerary.
1. Go on an Adventure Ride on the Longest Zipline
The Jebel Jais Rais, situated in the Hajar mountains, the world's largest zipline, will pump your serotonin levels as you buckle up in this adventure ride. Ras Al Kahimah's zipline experience will leave you excited when you get to experience viewing a breathtaking landscape filled with rugged mountains in a stunning setting. One of the top things to do in RAK, it will allow you to conquer all your fears throughout this adventure. This adventure stands at a whopping 1,934 metres above sea level and will get you at 150.
- Timings- 9:30 AM to 4:00 PM
- Location- Ras Al Khaimah, Jebel Jais
Read More: Best Places to Visit in Ras Al Khaimah with Family
2. Step Into The Mall of the Emirates
One of the top things to do in Dubai is to visit a luxurious shopping and entertainment hotspot that is free of charge. The Mall of the Emirates is an international story that welcomes you to satisfy your shopping nature.
Additionally, you can even savour multi-cuisine from around the world under one roof and enter the realm of ecstasy.
Not to mention the iconic ski resort Ski Dubai and state-of-the-art movie complexes. One of the best tourist attractions in the UAE features window shopping, where you can click beautiful pictures and spend time with loved ones. Overall, the stunning architectural splendour and what is inside the Mall of the Emirates thus make it one of the best shopping places in Dubai.
- Timings- 10 AM to 12 AM
- Location- Sheikh Zayed Roa, Dubai, UAE
3. Visiting the Charming RAK Museum
To get an accurate dose of the Emirate's rich history and culture, apply for your UAE visa online with InstaUAEVisa.org today. It is situated in an ages-old fort and provides a stockpile of artefacts, documents, weaponry, and pottery that lucidly portray the everyday lifestyle. The fort itself is bestowed with conventional Emirati craftsmanship. You can go through the well-preserved rooms, ancient pathways, and courtyard, which show tales of what happened on these walls, one of the best things to do with family in the UAE.
- Timings- 10 AM to 8 PM
- Location- Al Hasn Rd- Old Ras Al Khaimah UAE
Read More: Best Time to Visit Ras al Khaimah – Weather, Temperature and Season
4. Go on a shopping spree at the Al Hamra Mall
If you love shopping, you can go on a shopping expedition to Al Hamra Mall to get a feel for the retail heights of RAK. It is one of the best things to do in the UAE. This shopping complex gives a shopping experience that caters to every need of shopaholics. Al Hamra Mall has embellished architecture and modern design for a comfortable setting. The mall is a showstopper for all shopaholics, foodies, and movie buffs.
- Timings- 10 AM to 10 PM
- Location- Sheikh Mohammed bin Salem Road, Al Hamra Village, RAK
5. Dreamland Aqua Park- Spending Day
Travelling to the UAE without visiting a water park is a bad idea. Dreamland Aqua Park is one of the biggest water theme parks in the UAE and one of the best things to do in Umm Al Quwain. With various palm trees and greenery, the theme park has about 30 thrilling rides and adventures that suit all ages, so it is a perfect outing for family entertainment. There are also restaurants and many kid-friendly activities inside the theme park.
- Timings- 10 AM to 6 PM
- Location- Al Khaor Al Sharqi Umm Al Quwain
Read More: Best Places to Visit in Umm Al Quwain
6. Bird Watching- Close to Nature
The most undiscovered part of the Emirate is that it is one of the best bird-watching places. It is also one of the best things to do in the UAE with family and friends. This is due to the copious marine and wildlife, lush lagoons, and mud beds that create a perfect habitat for feeding and nesting. Some of the best bird-watching places are Khor Al Beidah and Al Sinnayah Island, a marine sanctuary covering 90 square kilometres.
- Timings- Noon when birds are less active. Morning/Evening Birds are active
- Location- Umm al Quwain Mangrove Forest
7. Ajman Marina-Picturesque Waterfront
Visit Ajman Marima, one of the top things to do in the UAE. It is a lavish waterfront development in the Emirate of Ajman, UAE. It features various residential and commercial properties, including apartments, townhouses, villas, a marina, a yacht club, and myriad recreational and dining options. The development is curated to provide residents and visitors with a high-end lifestyle experience that is one of the top things to do in Ajman in a picture-friendly waterfront setting.
- Timings- Open 24 hours
- Location- End of Sheikh Humaid Bin Rashid al Nuaimi Rd- Ajman, UAE
Read More: Best Time to Visit Ajman – Weather, Temperature and Season
8. Balloon Dining in Dubai- Unique Culinary Experience
Ballon Dining in Dubai provides a distinctive culinary experience high above the desert. Enjoy a gourmet meal while suspended in a tethered hot air balloon, which gives panoramic views of Dubai's stunning landscapes, including the golden dunes and distant city skyline. This activity is one of the fun things to do in the UAE. This activity typically takes solace during sunrise and is sent for the most breathtaking views.
- Location- Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
- Timings- 5:30 AM to 8:30 AM and 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM
9. Al Noor Mosque- Witness Exquisitely
This beautiful Ottoman-style mosque overlooking the Khalid Lagoon is the most magnificent of the 600 mosques in Sharjah. One of the top things to do in Sharjah is to visit this beautiful mosque. The first is to open its doors to non-Muslims; Al Noor Mosque majestically covers the city's skyline with its domes and minarets. Visiting this architectural marvel is one of the best things to do in the UAE. It is featured on your list of things to do in Sharjah to witness the spectacular interiors with delicate patterns and beautifully carved Quranic verses.
- Timings- 10 AM to 11 PM on Mondays for non-Muslims
- Location- Corniche Street Al Majaz 1- Sharjah UAE
Read More: Best Time to Visit Sharjah - Weather, Temperature & Season
10. Al Mamzar Beach- Lovely Relaxing Spot
Spread over 106 hectares with three pools, five beaches, and picnic areas, this is where you can keep your feet up and relax. It is one of the top things to do in UAE with family and friends. There are many playgrounds for kids and barbecues for a perfect weekend day out with your family. Lounging on this picture-perfect Sharjah beach, swimming, and snorkelling are some of the best things to do in Sharjah for a revitalising break from sightseeing.
- Timings- Open all 24 hours
- Location- Alexandria St Sharjah UAE
11. Snoopy Island- Snorkel Around
One of the top things to do with family in the UAE is visit Snoopy Island, which is named after the cartoon dog that the island resembles in shape. Snoopy Island is a marine haven providing some of the best snorkelling in the GCC.
Marine life is the colour of the rainbow; even little white-tip reef sharks have made this sparkling cerulean sea their home. This is one of the fun things to do in UAE, and you can experience it by taking a daycation at Sandy Beach Resort.
- Timings- Open 24 hours
- Locations- Snoopy Island, Fujairah
Read More: Best Places to Visit in Fujairah - Tourist Places & Top Attractions
12. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo-Man Made Marvel
Walk under a 48-meter-long aquarium and come face-to-face with the sharks for an exciting experience that will awaken you. It is a beautiful man-made marvel that fills one with childlike wonder. Visiting this place is one of the top things to do at night in the UAE. If you are wondering when the best time to visit Dubai is in March, that sounds like a great place.
- Timings- Monday to Friday- 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Saturday and Sunday 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Location- Dubai Mall, Level 2
13. Dubai Creek- For Serenity
Flowing through the heat of Dubai, the saltwater creek brings the charming confluence of the sophisticated architecture of Bur Dubai from an era gone by with the sparkling skyline of Deira Dubai that is dotted with uncountable skyscrapers, making it among the top things to do in the UAE at night that you can experience with your family and friends.
- Timings- 3 hours
- Location- Dubai, UAE
Read More: Best Time to Visit Dubai with Family - Temperature, Weather, & Places
14. The Madinat Theatre-Shoppers Paradise
This local Middle Eastern market is not only a shopper's paradise but also houses a state-of-the-art Madinat theatre within its labyrinth. One of the best things to do in the UAE at night is to envelop yourself in the harmonious melodies of the numerous musical performances from artists worldwide, giving it a reputation as one of the best places to visit in Dubai.
- Timings- Not applicable
- Location- Al Sufouh Road- Dubai UAE
15. The Dubai Fountains- Adventurous Trail
One of the best things to do in the UAE at night is to enjoy incredible music and a light show every 30 minutes. This perfectly complements the fun dancing waters, leaving one with an unmistakable serenity. The stunning display of water art, dancing lights, and a grand symphony of music is probably one of the best places to visit in Dubai and one of the fun things to do in UAE with family and friends.
- Timings- All days, 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
- Location- Fashion Parking Dubai Mall Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard UAE
Read More: Complete Guide for Dubai Visa From India
16. Arabian Desert- Spend a Night
Dubai night without a desert safari is one of the top things to do in UAE at night. In all its vastness, the Arabian desert provides many activities like sand skiing, canal riding, dune bashing, and quad biking. But the desert safari in Dubai after sunset adds to the city's magic with its barbeque dinners on the Arabian sands and cultural performances like the Tanura Dance Show, belly Dancing, and majestic Fire Show. Experience one of the best things to do in UAE at night for an authentic desert experience.
- Timings- Monday to Friday- 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM.
- Location- At numerous sites famous as the Red Dunes of Al Hibaba
17. Visit the Fujairah Fort- Historical Expedition
This one is for history buffs; visiting it is one of the top things to do in Fujairah. Built in the 16th century, Fujairah Fort is one of the oldest forts in the UAE, and the giant castle is also in Fujairah. The top of the tower is elevated around 20 metres above sea level, offering incredible views over the city. At the same time, the front is known for its prominent role in resisting invasion and bombardment by the British Royal Navy. Visiting and experiencing this fort is one of the top things to do in UAE with family.
- Timings- 8 AM to 5 PM
- Location- Al Shariah Fujairah UAE
Read More: The Best Time To Visit Fujairah – Temperature, Weather & Season
18. Lost Chambers- For Water Sports
This Atlantis-themed underwater aquarium consists of marine life that enables one to be face-to-face with stingrays, seahorses, sharks, and many other things for a jaw-dropping experience. Sitting is one of the most fascinating things to do at night in the UAE. Among many things to do in Dubai, the aqua trek is one of the activities that make Dubai's vacation a treasure chest of memories.
- Timings- All Days, 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Location- Atlantis The Palm Dubai UAE
19. Spash into the Yas Waterworld Water Park
One of the best water parks in UAE will cool your senses in the Arabian heat and allow you to experience the uninterrupted pleasures of water slides and thrilling rides. It is one of the famous water parks in Abu Dhabi, located at the entertainment hub of Yas Island. Visiting the water park is one of the best things to do in the UAE as it covers an area equal to 15 football pitches and is just a 15-minute drive from the airport, making it easy to reach there.
- Timings- 10 AM to 6 PM
- Location- Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Read More: Best Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi with Family, Kids & Friends
20. Escapade into the Dubai Desert Safari
Dubai desert safari is a must-do experience and one of the top things to do in the UAE. It provides a thrilling escape into the golden sands of the Arabian Desert. This adventure combines excitement and cultural immersion, starting with an exciting dune-bashing ride over rolling dunes. Travellers can try sandboarding, enjoy a camel ride, or witness a mesmerizing desert sunset. Evening safaris often feature traditional Bedouin-style camps with activities like henna painting, falconry, and live performances. Experiencing the adventure is one of the fun things to do in the UAE with family and friends.
- Morning Timings- 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM
- Evening Timings- 3:00 PM to 9:00 PM
- Location- Lahbab Desert and Al Awir Desert
21. Indulge in Exclusive Brands at the Shopping Malls
Popularly known as the International Shopping destination of the world, it is one of the top things to do in UAE at night. It has the best selection of well-stocked malls that cater to shopaholics and those obsessed with spending and offer a compelling range of activities like bus rides, etc. The major shopping malls in Dubai are the Emirates Mall, Burjuman Center, Ibn Battuta Mall, Wafi Mall, and many others—one of the top things to do in the UAE at night for every traveller to experience.
- Timings- Monday to Friday, 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 10:00 AM to 12:00 AM
- Location- Dubai Mall, level 2
Read More: UAE Visit Visa Requirements from Saudi Arabia
22. Visit Coffee Museum- For Coffeholics
Are you a coffee lover? Then you must visit this coffee cum shop in Dubai. Visiting the museum is one of the top things to do in the UAE; its entrance is free. In the museum, you will learn about the history of coffee and its varied kinds. It is indeed one of the best things to do in Dubai and at home, as well as things associated with coffee, including books and more, and it is one of the best things to do in UAE.
- Timings- 9 AM to 5 PM. Closed on Friday
- Location- Bastakiya Villa 44- Al Hisn St Al Fahidi Dubai UAE
23. Discover the city's ambitions at Louvre Abu Dhabi
Experiencing the art and culture at the Louvre Abu Dhabi is one of the most fun things to do in the UAE. It has become popular amongst travellers with its striking architecture, a growing permanent collection that features 700 artworks from every civilisation, another 300 pieces on loan from partner museums, and temporary exhibitions that bridge East and West. Here, you will witness masterpieces such as The Subjugated Reader by Rene Magritte, Portrait of a Woman by Pablo Picasso, and Young Emir Studying by Osman Hamdi Bey. It is one of the best things to do with family in the UAE and is worth including on your bucket list.
- Timings- 10 AM to Midnight
- Location- Yas Island Sheikh Khalifa Highway E12
Read More: Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi: Weather, Season, Month & Temperature
24. Witness the wonders of the sea at Sharjah Aquarium
Spread over two floors, this lovely aquarium provides a glimpse into the vibrant marine life of the deep sea. It is one of the top things to do in the UAE, with 20 separate tanks recreating a different aquatic environment. Visiting the aquarium is one of the top things to do in Sharjah with kids to explore the enchanting world of clownfish, seahorses, eels, and sharks.
- Timings- 8 AM to 8 PM (Monday to Thursday and Saturday) and 4 PM to 8 PM (Friday), Closed on Sunday
- Location- Al Meena Street, Near Sharjah Maritime Museum- Sharjah UAE
25. Soak in the pretty Venetian views at Al Qasba
This beautiful area in the city's heart is the perfect spot for hanging out in the evening and one of the top things to do in the UAE with family for sightseeing. While kids can have a great time in the fun zone and indoor play area, you can enjoy the musical fountain show at leisure or dine at the numerous restaurants and cafes. Sitting by the magical Venetian canal is a soothing and relaxing experience, and it is one of the fun things to do in the UAE.
- Timings- Not applicable here
- Location- Open all time
26. Hike Through Wadi Abadilah
Situated within the Hajar mountains, Fujairah has plenty of gems worth exploring. Wadi Abadilah is the perfect hike for picture-friendly nature scenes and wadi dips. Experiencing the trail is one of the top things to do in UAE with family. It is considered easy to moderate and will take you through agricultural farmland, where you will spot banana trees, mango trees, and date palms. If you are lucky enough, you may be able to spot catchy flowing streams and pools in the wadis.
- Timings- 7 AM to 1:30 PM
- Location- Abadilah Area of Fujairah, UAE
Read More: Best Time to Visit Umm Al Quwain: Plan your Perfect Trip
Final Thoughts on Things to Do in UAE
I hope the above blog has been helpful for you in understanding some of the top things to do in UAE and fun things to do in UAE. The United Arab Emirates is a treasure trove that is an unforgettable experience for every traveller. From the awe-inspiring skyscrapers of Dubai and Abu Dhabi to the serene desert adventures and cultural gems like Sharjah, the country provides something for every traveller. Whether exploring iconic landmarks or immersing in luxury shopping, some fun things to do in the UAE promise memories that last a lifetime.
