25+ Dubai Tours & Activities You Can’t Miss [2023]

Looking for the best Dubai tours to enjoy this year? You’ve found the most comprehensive list of activities in the city written by a local. Check it out!

Dubai is a city that never fails to impress. From dune bashing in the desert to day trips to Abu Dhabi, views from the world’s tallest building, and record-breaking waterpark rides, there are so many things to do in Dubai that you won’t have a dull moment in the city.

I was a resident of Dubai for one year and I still didn’t manage to see and do it all! The thing with Dubai is, once you scratch something off your list, a new attraction (or 10) opens, so that list never ends!

To truly experience all that Dubai has to offer, taking a tour is a great way to go. Not only will you get to see the top attractions, but you’ll also learn about the history and culture of the city from knowledgeable guides.

In this blog post, I will be sharing some of the best tours in Dubai that cover a wide range of interests.

👉 For those who want to experience the thrill of the desert, I recommend a desert safari. This type of tour takes you on a thrilling dune bashing ride in a 4×4 vehicle and gives you the opportunity to try activities like sandboarding.

👉 If you’re interested in the traditional side of Dubai, a dhow cruise is a must-do. These traditional wooden boats offer a leisurely way to see the city from the water while enjoying a delicious dinner.

👉 For those who want to see the city’s modern side, a visit to the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall is a must. The Burj Khalifa offers stunning views from the observation deck while the Dubai Mall is a shopper’s paradise.

👉 For families with children, a visit to the Dubai Aquarium or to one of the many waterparks is sure to be a hit.

There’s a lot to cover, so are you ready to get started? Check out the ultimate Dubai tours and activities that you definitely cannot miss!

I generally use Viator and Get Your Guide to book tours around the world. And while both offer high-quality services, I especially recommend them for their cancellation policy. If your travel plans change, you can get a full refund by canceling most tours up to 24 hours in advance.

The VERY BEST Tours in Dubai for First-Time Visitors

➤ The Dubai Speedboat Tour takes you on an exhilarating excursion along the city’s coastline, with photo stops in front of some amazing landmarks.

You’ll get to see Burj Al Arab, Dubai Marina, and the Atlantis hotel from the Persian Gulf, as you learn about each attraction from your guide.

This tour also includes: Live commentary, bottled water, and life jackets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ The Old Town and Street Food Guided Tour is hosted by a local, who will take you around the heritage villages by the Dubai Creek, including a boat trip across the creek to visit the famous souks.

You’ll also get to try some Arabic street food, coffee, tea, and juices, and discover the history and culture of the United Arab Emirates.

This tour also includes: A visit to the Coin Museum, all food, boat trip, and entrance fees. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ The Old and Modern Dubai City Tour is the perfect introduction to both sides of Dubai: its rich heritage and the futuristic approach of the city. You’ll visit some of Palm Jumeirah’s attractions, including The Pointe, Atlantis The Palm, and views of Burj Al Arab, and also tour the Blue Mosque.

The famous gold and spice souks in Deira, the neighborhoods of Old Dubai, and Al Khayma Heritage House are also part of the itinerary. It’s arguably one of the most comprehensive Dubai city tours.

This tour also includes: Abra ride across Dubai Creek, hotel pick-up and drop-off, mineral water, and a tour guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Burj Khalifa & Dubai Aquarium Tickets

➤ This Burj Khalifa Entry Ticket grants you access to levels 124 and 125 of the tallest building in the world, where you’ll get to enjoy phenomenal 360-degree views over the city and the Persian Gulf.

This tour also includes: A ride in the fastest elevator, use of the telescopes, and entrance at your selected time. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ The Burj Khalifa Tickets and Tour offers access to levels 124, 125, and 148. You’ll also enjoy priority entrance and a guided tour conducted by a guest ambassador.

On level 148 you’ll be served coffee and dates, and get to marvel at the amazing views from the open-air deck.

This Burj Khalifa tour also includes: Use of telescopes and interactive stations, and access to the observation deck. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ For a fancier experience, book the Burj Khalifa Lunch or Dinner at Rooftop. You’ll start your visit with a trip to levels 124 and 125, where the 360-degree scenery of the city is unparalleled, and then head to the Rooftop restaurant for a 3-course meal with a view.

This tour also includes: Access to Burj Khalifa, and alfresco lunch or dinner. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

➤ You could also combine your visit to the Burj Khalifa with one to the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. This Combo Ticket grants you access to both attractions on the same day, so you get to enjoy the tallest view of the city right before meeting the sharks and rays that inhabit the aquarium at Dubai Mall.

This tour also includes: Access to levels 124 and 125 of Burj Khalifa, and entry ticket to the aquarium. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ You can otherwise buy the regular Entrance Ticket to Dubai Aquarium, that will give you access to the Aquarium and Underwater Zoo for a whole day, plus a behind-the-scenes tour.

This ticket also includes: Access to the Underwater Observaroty and the Aquarium Tunnel. ➥ BUY IT HERE

Unmissable Dubai Marina Boat Tours

➤ The Dubai Marina Yacht Tour includes a full breakfast or a BBQ meal, and a tour guide who will provide insights during the trip.

You’ll embark on a sightseeing cruise along the coastline and spot some of the most important landmarks from the water, as you pass by Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Eye, and cruise Dubai Marina.

This boat tour in Dubai also includes: Life jackets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ Dubai Sea Escape is a private cruise that will take you around the city so you can take it in from the sea, while sunbathing on the yacht’s sundeck and enjoying some refreshments.

You’ll also have the opportunity to go for a swim, take pictures of the city’s skyline, and be the DJ for your group by taking charge of the stereo system.

This yacht ride in Dubai also includes: Bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

The BEST Dubai Desert Safari Tours

Heading into the desert is one of the best outdoor activities in Dubai – and the whole UAE for that matter! Its unique sand dunes offer a perfect setting for adventure sports, and you can also learn about the Bedouins and their customs by visiting desert camps.

➤ The Red Dunes Dubai Desert Safari offers a full day of adventure. You’ll get to enjoy a camel ride, go dune bashing in the massive sand dunes, visit an oasis, and relish a BBQ buffet with local delicacies and desserts.

You’ll also visit a desert camp and partake in traditional activities, including shisha smoking, painting henna tattoos, and witnessing a falconry demonstration. It’s one of the best desert tours of Dubai!

This tour also includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, and all activities + food. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ The Dubai Desert Land Rover Safari is a full-day tour from Dubai that takes you through the desert on an open-top vintage Land Rover. You’ll start by visiting the Conservation Reserve and meeting the wildlife, which includes gazelles and oryx, before heading for a Bedouin camp.

This day trip also includes a falconry demonstration, traditional dancing, and a delicious BBQ dinner.

This Dubai Safari tour also includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a camel ride, and a donation to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

👉 Looking for something different? I’ve written a whole post about the best desert safari tours from Dubai.

Looking for Unmissable Views in Dubai? Come Here!

➤ Sky Views Dubai Entry Ticket grants you access to one of the city’s newest attractions. You’ll enter the Sky Observatory, located at 720 feet, which boasts 360-degree views of Dubai.

You’ll also get to walk on the glass bridge with the city beneath you, and glide from the 53rd floor on the Glass Slide.

This tour includes: Entrance to Sky Views Dubai, and one glide on the Glass Slide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ The View at The Palm is the perfect viewpoint to marvel at Palm Jumeirah from above. The observatory, located 787 feet above the ground, offers 360-degree views and faces the famous man-made island directly.

You’ll get access to the observatory, and also to the View Exhibition, which showcases the history of the island and details of its construction.

This tour also includes: Fast-track entrance if the option is selected. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

The BEST Dubai Private Tours

➤ This Private City Tour Dubai is a half-day excursion around town. Your guide will take you to all the major highlights, and provide insights and information about the history of Dubai.

You’ll get to visit the old and new areas of the city, and marvel at the famous souks, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, and the impressive Jumeirah Mosque.

This Dubai sightseeing tour also includes: An abra boat ride, hotel pick-up and drop-off, and photo stops. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ This Private Dubai Food Tour allows you to eat your way through the city as you stop by Dubai’s most authentic eateries and discover the local cuisine.

You’ll get to enjoy 10 tastings of food and drinks, and learn about the city’s food scene from your local guide.

This Dubai tour also includes: Vegetarian options are available. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ This Evening Desert Safari is a private Dubai tour that offers a memorable experience. You’ll head into the desert for a few hours of entertainment, food, music, and culture.

The tour includes a visit to a Bedouin-style camp, where you’ll enjoy a camel ride, go dune bashing, try on Arabic costumes, and indulge in a BBQ dinner while watching dance and fire performances.

This desert safari also includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, unlimited water and refreshments, camel rides, and sunset photo opportunities. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

A Dubai Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour

The Big Bus Hop On Hop Off Dubai allows you to explore the city at your own pace, as you’ll be able to get off the bus at the stops that most interest you, and get back on when you’re ready to continue the journey.

The audio commentary will tell you all about the history of Dubai city and the significance of the different landmarks, and you’ll have unlimited access to the bus for 1, 2 or 5 days.

This Dubai bus tour also includes: A dhow cruise and extra tours if Deluxe or Premium options are selected. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Water Parks & Theme Parks: Ideal for Kids & Adults

➤ The Atlantis Aquaventure and Lost Chambers Aquarium Ticket grants you a full day of entertainment as you get to enjoy all the attractions of one of the world’s largest waterparks, including its private beach.

This tour includes: Unlimited access to the waterpark and all its attractions. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ Wild Wadi Waterpark features over 30 rides and waterslides that range from a relaxing lazy river to thrilling slides that will get your blood pumping. This Entrance Ticket allows you to make use of all the attractions for a whole day.

This tour includes: Unlimited access to all the rides. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ This Dubai Parks and Resorts Pass offers you access to two of the resort’s parks for a day. You’ll get to choose between Legoland, Bollywood, Motiongate, and Legoland Waterpark, and spend a whole day riding the attractions of two of them.

This tour includes: Full-day admission to two parks of Dubai Parks and Resorts. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ Dubai Miracle Garden Skip the Line Ticket allows you to head right into the attraction, without having to queue. Dubai Miracle Garden is home to over 150 million flowers, and amazing sculptures made with them.

You’ll marvel at the colorful constructions and the aroma of the flowers as you wander around this fairytale-like garden, unique in the UAE.

This tour includes: Access to Dubai Miracle Garden for a whole day. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

The Best Abu Dhabi Tours from Dubai

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates, and the destination of most Dubai excursions! Check out the best day trips to Abu Dhabi you can enjoy.

➤ This Abu Dhabi Full Day Sightseeing Tour includes access to the spectacular Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and the observation deck of Etihad Towers for astounding views.

You’ll also drive along the Corniche, marvel at the Al Watan Palace, and spot other amazing landmarks of the city.

This tour also includes: Roundtrip transportation from Dubai, a guide, and entrance fees. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ The Abu Dhabi City Tour is a full-day excursion to explore the capital of UAE. You’ll go sightseeing, and enter some of its highlights, including the spectacular Grand Mosque and the Emirates Palace.

You’ll also enjoy a photo stop at Ferrari World, and a visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

This tour also includes: Roundtrip transportation, entrance fees, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ This Private Abu Dhabi Trip takes you for a full-day city tour on a 4WD, so you can enjoy the comfort of your own, air-conditioned vehicle while admiring the impressive landmarks of Abu Dhabi.

The Grand Mosque, the Emirates Palace, the Corniche, and Heritage Village are part of the itinerary, and you’ll also enjoy some free time at the mall at lunchtime. It’s one of the most luxury tours in Dubai to enjoy with your fellow travelers!

This tour also includes: Private transfers, bottled water, and a guide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Jet Ski in Dubai for Thrill Seekers

With this Jet Ski Tour of Dubai you’ll get to see the views of the city from the water, as you speed by its waterfront and take snaps of its massive landmarks.

You’ll enjoy photo stops at Burj Al Arab, Atlantis, the Palm, Dubai Marina, and the Burj Khalifa. The tour is suitable for all levels, although drivers need to be at least 14 years old.

This tour also includes: Safety briefing, equipment, a certified instructor, bottled water, and photos/videos of the tour. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Dubai #1 Show: La Perle by Dragone

La Perle By Dragone is Dubai’s indisputable #1 show, created by one of the world’s top artistic directors. La Perle by Dragone Entry Ticket is what you need to be mesmerized by the aquatic performances, mind-blowing imagery and technology, and aerial stunts that make this show one of a kind.

This tour also includes: Lounge access, drinks, and snacks if the option is selected. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

Ski in Dubai? YES, That’s Possible!

➤ Yep, you can also go skiing in Dubai. This Slope Session at Ski Dubai allows you to enjoy 2 hours or a full day of skiing and snowboarding in the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort.

You can try your skills at the different runs, which vary in difficulty and length, and use the quad-chairlifts to start again!

This tour also includes: Clothing and equipment. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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➤ The Ski Dubai Classic Pass grants you full-day access to the snow park, where you’ll get to enjoy all of its attractions.

From snowboarding to bobsledding, Snow Bumpers, the Mountain Thriller, and riding a Giant Snowball down the slopes, you’ll escape the heat of Dubai for unlimited fun in the snow (especially needed during the summer season!)

This tour also includes: Winter clothes and equipment. ➥ BOOK IT HERE

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