In today’s post, Neha Singh is going to share with you the best things to do and see in Dubai in 2021. She is a post graduate in Mass Communications, as well as an avid trekker and explorer. Neha loves meeting new people and strongly believes in the Gandhian principle – ‘Simple living, high thinking’.
The whole world may be down due to the pandemic, but Dubai is one perennial destination which never ceases to enthrall its visitors. So if you’re planning a Dubai trip in the coming days, there are many cool attractions and experiences to add to your Dubai checklist. It doesn’t matter if it’s your debut or even 50th Dubai visit, you can be assured of some brand-new experiences here. Check out this list of things to do in Dubai to get convinced about it. This includes everything from classic and timeless sights to the latest and most innovative experiences.
Dubai in 2021 – 10 Things to See and Do
1. The Palm Fountain
The iconic Dubai Fountain show needs no intro. But there is a more compelling upgrade to this fountain show in the form of Palm Fountain show. To catch up with it, be sure to head to the Pointe on the man-made island of Palm Jumeirah. This whimsical dancing fountain show is the world’s highest fountain show and the region’s only colored show. In fact, it’s not just massive but also supremely imposing. You can watch it for free but enrich this viewing experience by dropping into one of the many dining venues that offer the most relaxed and direct views of the show.
2. AquaFun Dubai
If you’ve already been to Dubai’s popular water parks like Wild Wadi or Aquaventure and are looking for a twist in water park fun, you shouldn’t miss the newest AquaFun Dubai. It’s the world’s biggest inflatable water park with 70 plus obstacles set against the striking settings of Jumeirah Beach Residence and its exuberant beach. So get ready to combine the heart-racing thrill of water park rides and slides with the sheer fun and amusement of a bounce house. Its float design reflects Dubai’s official logo and as a whole reads out as IDubai. Still not convinced? It’s often ranked among the Top Five Things to do in Dubai.
3. Aventura Park
Your tryst with adventure and nature can’t get any better than with a trip to Aventura Park. Lying within the grounds of one of Dubai’s oldest parks – Mushrif Park, a visit here is ideal for anyone who wants to experience fun and thrill in a natural setting. With its over 80 amazing challenges across five circuits, you’ll get to hit its zipline courses and also try various milder and extreme activities such as tree climbing, bridge balancing, rock climbing, and Tarzan jump to name a few.
4. Burj Khalifa & The Dubai Mall
These well-known structures in Downtown Dubai are not just other intricate or glitzy skyscrapers in Dubai. Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building at an altitude of 828 meters. With three observation decks at 124th, 125th and 148th levels, Burj Khalifa entices you with the most breathtaking views over the whole of Dubai and beyond. This high-definition viewing experience comes with the bonus of the super-swift elevator that takes you to the observation deck in under a minute.
Located right adjacent to Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall has over 1200 outlets and 200 plus diverse dining options to cater to every interest and age group. There are also many leisure and entertainment attractions including the largest-of-its-kind Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, kids’ special KidZania Dubai, and one-of-its-kind Dubai Ice Rink. Moreover, thrill seekers should check out the world’s largest VR Park which offers a variety of rides and games themed around Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality.
5. Desert Safari
Dubai isn’t just a few miles of eye-popping dazzling sights splashed down in the center of the desert. There is untouched landscape – a few minutes’ drive outside the city allows you to immerse yourself in the sheer beauty and tranquility of the Arabian Desert. Depending on your chosen desert safari package, you might also get to add more delight and excitement to your desert safari trip with a session of heart-pounding 4X4 dune bash, sandboarding, camel ride, and quad biking. Cultural inclusions like henna tattooing, Shisha smoking or falconry make it even more memorable. Select from morning desert safari, evening desert safari (with BBQ dinner, belly dance and Tanura performance), or overnight desert safari complete with camping amidst the desert sands.
6. Museum of Future
Dubai recently announced the completion of one of its most prestigious projects. Yes, it’s Museum of Future with an unusual yet most outstanding façade. Apparently, you can look forward to visit this unique museum on your upcoming Dubai visit. Overlooking Sheikh Zayed Road, this is easily identifiable for its oval ring like structure with a massive hollow part in its center. But don’t expect to see any historic artifacts or cultural displays. Indicative of its name, it’s dedicated to future and hence will be a hotbed for the most cutting-edge inventions and innovations.
7. Bluewaters Island
There is a whole new neighborhood dedicated to all brand-new attractions in Dubai. Just make your way to Bluewaters Island to experience it all. After all, this waterfront district is on its way to dazzle the world. You’ll soon get to see here Ain Dubai – the world’s largest Ferris wheel, Madame Tussauds Museum – the first of its kind in the Middle East, and 3D World Dubai – the world’s largest 3D Art Museum, among others. And not to mention the loads of amazing accommodation and dining options scattered over here.
8. Dhow Cruise
Take in Dubai’s city skyline with an off-the-beaten experience on a dhow cruise. Setting off the sail from the uber-chic Dubai Marina, this cruise aboard a traditional dhow is like stepping back in time as this wooden vessel was once used to boost the region’s economy during its pre-oil phase. Sit back and unwind in its atmospheric ambience as you admire Dubai’s breathtaking sights glide by you at an unhurried pace. For unhindered views over the surroundings, take to its partly open upper deck or alternatively settle into the dhow’s air-conditioned lower deck. Live entertainment like Tanura and a lavish buffet meal with international menu plus unlimited refreshments are included in most dhow cruises. They usually kick off after sunset and last for approximately two hours.
9. City Walk Dubai
City Walk is another trendiest neighborhood in Dubai. A mix of retail, leisure, and unique urban experiences makes it a definite must-experience on your Dubai holiday. Stroll down its streets to take in its bold, massive and impressive mural paintings up-close and be sure to check out its attractions, mainly the Green Planet which has recreated a refreshing green forest in the middle of the desert city. Moreover, there is Hub Zero which is unmissable for gaming enthusiasts. Joined by your little ones between two and ten years? Don’t miss out to take them to Mattel Play Town whose zones and play attractions are inspired by the popular characters of Mattel television series.
10. XLine Dubai
Looking for an urban activity adventure that is exceptionally swift and electrifying? You should definitely soar down XLine Dubai which is the world’s longest, steepest and, of course, the fastest zipline adventure. This gives you the chance to fly over the stunning sights of Dubai Marina like a super hero in a belly-down, head-first position. With two parallel lines, you can try this activity simultaneously with your spouse, friends or dear ones. Want to experience thrill but don’t want to take to heights? Try XDubai Slingshot which is the fastest human slingshot in the world.
As you’ve now caught up with some of Dubai’s most classic and contemporary attractions, it’s now your turn to update your Dubai bucket list and get ready for an unforgettable Dubai holiday. And with Dubai EXPO 2021 just a few months away, you can look forward to the official launch of some of its coveted Dubai projects.
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