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 that 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!
Why should you trust me? I have a decade of experience in the travel industry, which has helped me develop a knack for identifying high-quality, extraordinary tours. I only pick the ones I would personally go on without a second thought!
Besides, I lived in Dubai for a year and enjoyed most of its attractions and iconic locations, so I have all the insider tips on the best activities in town.
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.
Limited time? These are the top tours:
| TOUR FOR FIRST-TIMERS | Magical Dubai Tour with Burj Khalifa Experience |
| PRIVATE TOUR | Private Half Day Tour with Customized Itinerary |
| BURJ KHALIFA | Burj Khalifa Level 124 and 125 Entry Ticket |
| DESERT SAFARI | Premium Safari, Camel Ride & Al Khayma Camp |
| BOAT TOUR | Dubai Marina: Yacht Tour with Breakfast or BBQ |
OUR PICK: The BEST Dubai Tour for First Timers
The Magical Dubai 8-Hour Tour with Burj Khalifa Experience introduces you to the old and modern parts of Dubai in a comprehensive excursion.
You’ll be picked up from your hotel and head to Dubai Creek for a tour of the area. You’ll then discover the Arabian wind towers of Bastakaya, and stroll around the historical neighborhood of Al-Fahidi.
Hop on a traditional abra, Dubai’s water taxis, to cross the creek on your way to Deira, where you’ll explore the famous Gold and Spices souks.
Pass by Jumeirah Mosque and Burj Al Arab before enjoying free time at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a fascinating bazaar. Your next stop is the famous man-made island Palm Jumeirah, with a visit to the Atlantis Aquarium.
A drive along Sheik Zayed Road and the Dubai Marina is also included, granting you spectacular views of the city.
Why is this the top tour? Besides being vouched for by over 2,000 previous travelers, this excursion is the tour that will introduce you to Dubai inside and out. It starts with a tour around its most historical districts, introducing you to the city’s rich past before you get to admire the futuristic, modern side of Dubai.
The presence of an expert guide will enhance your experience, which ends with convenient drop-off at your hotel. If you have a single day to see Dubai, this tour will show you most of it.
Read what the reviews say:
“Brilliant day! Amira was and excellent guide. This tour is a full day and a good way to see highlights of Dubai as a first timer. I highly recommend this tour and it is value for money.”
Natalie – Read more reviews
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, all entrance fees, an abra ride, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Old Dubai Walking Tours
▶️ 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 includes: A guide, a visit to the Coin Museum, all food tastings, a boat trip, and entrance fees. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Dubai: Half-Day City Tour with Blue Mosque, Creek, and Souks is the perfect introduction to both sides of Dubai: the old and the new.
Discover its rich heritage with a visit to the traditional Souks, a tour around the Al Khayma Heritage House, and a visit to the Blue Mosque. A knowledgeable guide will provide all the insights and history details.
As for the futuristic approach, it will take you on a journey past the spectacular Museum of the Future, and some of Palm Jumeirah’s attractions. These include Atlantis The Palm and Burj Al Arab.
It’s arguably one of the most comprehensive Dubai city tours, and it provides refreshments such as coffee with dates and bread along the way.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, an abra ride, all entry fees, and refreshments. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Burj Khalifa & Dubai Aquarium Tickets
▶️ This Dubai: Burj Khalifa Level 124 and 125 Entry Ticket grants you access to the tallest building in the world. You’ll select a time slot, and upon arrival head straight to levels 124 and 125 in the fastest elevator.
Enjoy 360-degree views over the city and the Persian Gulf, take countless pictures, and use the viewing telescopes to identify the landmarks in the distance.
This tour includes: Entrance at your selected time, and use of the telescopes. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Dubai: Burj Khalifa Sky Ticket Levels 124, 125, and 148 takes you a step further. You’ll have access to three different levels – 124, 125, and 148 – to appreciate the city views.
The ticket also grants you 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 includes: Priority entrance, use of telescopes and interactive stations, a guided tour, snacks, and access to the observation deck. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ You could also combine your visit to the Burj Khalifa with one to the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. This Dubai: Aquarium & Burj Khalifa Level 124, 125 Combo Ticket grants you access to both attractions on the same day.
You’ll 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 includes: Access to levels 124 and 125 of Burj Khalifa and an entry ticket to the aquarium. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ If you’re not interested in visiting the Burj Khalifa, or have already been there, you can buy the regular Entrance Ticket to Dubai Aquarium. It will give you access to the Aquarium and Underwater Zoo for a whole day, plus a behind-the-scenes tour.
This ticket includes: Access to the Underwater Observatory and the Aquarium Tunnel. ➥ BUY IT HERE
Unmissable Dubai Marina Boat Tours
▶️ The Dubai Marina: Yacht Tour with Breakfast or BBQ lasts either 1 or 3 hours (your call!), and it’s led by a local guide who will provide insights during the trip.
You’ll embark on a sightseeing cruise along the coastline, spotting some of the most important landmarks from the water. Pass by Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Eye as you enjoy a sumptious breakfast or BBQ meal onboard.
This tour includes: A cruise, a guide, breakfast or BBQ, an air-conditioned lounge, and life jackets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Dubai Speedboat Tour: Marina, Atlantis, Palm & Burj Al Arab 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 includes: Live commentary, a guide, all activities and gear, bottled water, and life jackets. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Dubai Yach Sea Escape Cruise, Swim, Tan & Sightsee is a private experience. You’ll hop aboard a spectacular yacht and take in the glorious city views from the sea.
Sunbathe on the yacht’s sundeck and enjoy refreshments before jumping into the water for a swimming session. The boat is equipped with a stereo system that you can connect to your phone and play your favorite tunes.
This tour includes: A cruise, swimming stops, and refreshments. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
If you have the time, also check out this post about the best Dubai Marina cruises, or check out this article about the very best Dubai boat tours.
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 Dubai: Premium Safari, Camel Ride & Al Khayma Camp 3 Buffets 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.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, all activities, and food. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Authentic Safari in Vintage Land Rover with Traditional Dinner is a full-day adventure. It takes you through the desert on an open-top vintage Land Rover, immersing you in a sea of sand dunes.
You’ll start by visiting the Conservation Reserve and meeting the wildlife, which includes gazelles and oryx. Then, head to a Bedouin camp for a falconry demonstration, traditional dancing, camel riding, and a delicious BBQ dinner.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, all activities, 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!
▶️ This Dubai: Sky Views Entry Ticket wirh Burj Khalifa Views 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. The most fun activity? Gliding down from the 53rd floor on the Glass Slide!
This tour includes: Sky Views Dubai entrance, and one glide on the Glass Slide. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️Check out the Dubai: The View at The Palm Observatory Entry Ticket for the most perfect views over Palm Jumeirah. 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. If you select the VIP entrance, you’ll also get a drink, a guided tour of levels 52 and 54, and lounge access.
This tour includes: Tickets to the attraction and the View Exhibition. The VIP option also includes the perks mentioned above. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
The BEST Dubai Private Tours
▶️ Take a look at this Private Dubai Premium Half Day Tour with Customized Itinerary. You’ll be led by a professional guide, who will take you to all the major highlights while providing insights about the history of Dubai.
You’ll get to visit the old and new areas of the city, marveling at the famous Souks, the iconic Palm Jumeirah island, Burj Al Arab, and the Jumeirah Mosque. The trip can be customized to suit your preferences.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, a guide, an abra boat ride, and photo stops. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Dubai: Private Food Tour – 10 Tastings with Locals allows you to eat your way through the city. You’ll stop by Dubai’s most authentic eateries to discover the local cuisine with a local guide.
You’ll sample up to 10 food and drink tastings while learning about the city’s food scene. Vegetarian options are available.
This tour includes: A private guide and all tastings. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Looking for something different? I’ve written a whole post about the best food tours in Dubai, check it out.
▶️ This Private Evening Desert Safari with BBQ Dinner Dubai offers the most memorable experience. You’ll head into the desert in the afternoon 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, and try on Arabic costumes. Watch dance and fire performances as the day draws to an end, and indulge in a BBQ dinner.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, unlimited water and refreshments, all activities, and sunset photo opportunities. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
A Dubai Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour
The Big Bus Dubai Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour allows you to explore the city at your own pace. With a single ticket, that lasts 1, 2, or 5 days, you’ll be able to get on the bus unlimited times, and get off at the stops that most interest you.
Go sightseeing, explore, and get back on the bus when you’re ready to continue the journey. The audio commentary will tell you all about the history of Dubai and the significance of the different landmarks.
You can opt to add a dhow cruise and extra tours to the experience by choosing the Deluxe or Premium options.
This tour includes: A hop-on hop-off bus ticket, and optional dhow cruise and city tours. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Water Parks & Theme Parks: Ideal for Kids & Adults
▶️ The Dubai Atlantis Aquaventure and Lost Chambers Aquarium Combo grants you a full day of entertainment. You’ll have access to all the attractions of one of the world’s largest waterparks, including its private beach and wave rider.
Once you’re done with all the aquatic fun, visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium, home to over 65 thousand animals. You can witness the sharks being fed, and admire the rays from up close.
This tour includes: Unlimited access to the waterpark and all its attractions, and entrance to Lost Chambers Aquarium. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Dubai: Wild Wadi Waterpark Entrance Ticket features over 30 rides and waterslides. They range from a relaxing lazy river to thrilling slides that will get your blood pumping. There are kid-friendly activities, and stalls to get food and beverages.
The 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
▶️ This Dubai Parks and Resorts Pass 1-Day 2-Park Pass offers you access to two parks for a fun-filled day. You’ll get to choose between Legoland, Real Madrid World Park, Motiongate, and Legoland Waterpark.
The parks are all close to each other, making it easy for you to hop from one to the other, and they’re connected to Riverland Dubai. This is the retail and dining area where you can refuel in between attractions.
This tour includes: A full-day admission to two parks of Dubai Parks and Resorts. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Dubai Miracle Garden Entry Ticket with Hotel Transfer starts with comfortable transfers to the attraction and skip-the-line access.
You’ll then have a couple of hours to explore the mesmerizing Miracle Garden, home to over 150 million flowers, and amazing sculptures made with them.
Marvel at the colorful constructions and the aroma of the flowers as you wander around this fairytale-like garden, unique in the UAE, and take countless pictures. At the end of the visit, you’ll be taken back to your hotel.
This tour includes: Hotel pick-up and drop-off, and skip-the-line access. ➥ 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! I’ve written a whole post about the best day tours to Abu Dhabi from Dubai, but here are the very best ones.
▶️ This Abu Dhabi Premium Full-Day Sightseeing Tour from Dubai is a fabulous way to explore the UAE’s capital city. You’ll have 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. A professional guide will provide insights into the culture and history of the area.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transportation from Dubai, a guide, and entrance fees. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Abu Dhabi City Tour, Grand Mosque, Emirates Palace & The Louvre is a full-day excursion. Accompanied by a savvy guide, you’ll explore Abu Dhabi, visiting some of its landmarks and checking out all the city highlights.
Enter the Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Emirates Palace to be mesmerized by their architecture and grandeur, and enjoy a photo stop at Ferrari World.
This tour includes: Roundtrip transportation, a guide, entrance fees, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ This Abu Dhabi City Tour in 4×4 Private Vehicle, Dubai Pickup Option is a great alternative. It takes you around the city on a 4WD, allowing you to enjoy the comfort of a private, air-conditioned vehicle.
Admire the impressive landmarks of Abu Dhabi as your guide provides insights, including the Grand Mosque, the Emirates Palace, the Corniche, and the Heritage Village.
Your group of six will have free time at the mall at lunchtime, to refuel with local fare before going back.
This tour includes: Private transfers, a driver/guide, a sightseeing tour, and bottled water. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Jet Ski in Dubai for Thrill Seekers
With this Dubai Jet Ski: Burj Al Arab, Atlantis the Royal, Atlantis & Palm you’ll get to see the views of the city from the water. Speed on a jetski by Dubai’s waterfront, and take in the sights of its magnificent coastline and skyscrapers.
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 includes: A safety briefing, all 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. Getting Dubai La Perle by Dragone Show Tickets is the way to be mesmerized by these aquatic performances.
Sit back to enjoy the mind-blowing imagery and technology, and the aerial stunts that make this show one of a kind. The show lasts 1.5 hours, and you can opt to include snacks, drinks, and lounge access for an extra fee.
This tour includes: Tickets to La Perle by Dragone. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
Ski in Dubai? YES, That’s Possible!
▶️ Yep, you can also go skiing in Dubai. Who would have thought?! This Dubai: 2-Hour or Full-Day Slope Session at Ski Dubai takes you 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! The experience lasts either 2 hours or a full day.
This tour includes: Access to Ski Dubai, use of its facilities, clothes, and equipment. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
▶️ The Ski Dubai Snow Park 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!
This tour includes: Entrance fees, winter clothes, and equipment. ➥ BOOK IT HERE
