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What can you do on a cloudy day in Dubai?
What to do in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and the Northern Emirates when it… Try a theme park, Visit Green Planet or an aquarium, Challenge yourself at an escape room, Head to a museum, Visit Madame Tussauds Dubai, Treat yourself to a spa day, Head to the arcade, Go to a trampoline park
Top Ten Indoor Activities in Dubai
When it comes to vacationing in Dubai, most people think of the sunny shorelines and traditional activities. But if you’re looking for something to do indoors, there are plenty of choice activities as well! From world-renowned museums to virtual reality gaming, here’s a list of the top 10 activities to do indoors in Dubai which will keep you entertained for hours.
1. Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo – Adventure-filled Entertainment
Located in the iconic Dubai Mall, the aquarium houses over 33,000 aquatic animals, including sharks and stingrays, in 10 million liters of water. With a range of activities such as the Submersible Simulator, Glass Bottom Boat, and Shark Encounter, the aquarium is the perfect family-friendly destination. Pricing: Tickets are available from AED 50/person Location: Dubai Mall, Financial Centre Rd – Dubai How to get there: The Dubai Mall is conveniently located on the Dubai metro Red Line and the Dubai Water Canal. Bookings: Tickets can be booked online in advance here.
2. Skydive Dubai – Take Flight
If you’re looking for a thrilling experience, Skydive Dubai offers an indoor skydiving experience. With vertical wind tunnels, the company offers roughly 10 minutes of flight time for AED 200. Pricing: Tickets start from AED 200/person Location: Al Warsan 3 (Near Dragon Mart 2) – Dubai How to get there: Skydive Dubai is located on Al Warsan 3 (Near Dragon Mart 2) and is best reached via a taxi. Bookings: Tickets are available for purchase here.
3. Ski Dubai – Beat the Heat
Located in the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East. With multiple ski trails, restaurants, and attractions, visitors can enjoy the snow year-round. Pricing: Tickets start from AED 150/person Location: Mall of the Emirates – Dubai How to get there: The Mall of the Emirates is located on the Dubai metro Red Line and the Dubai Water Canal. Bookings: Tickets can be purchased here.
4. Reel Cinemas – Enjoy Movies in Style
Reel Cinemas is the perfect destination for a luxurious movie experience with plush seating, giant screens, and creative dining options. With tickets starting from AED 70/person, this is a great option for a night out. Pricing: Tickets start from AED 70/person Location: Multiple locations in Dubai How to get there: Reel Cinemas can be found in multiple shopping malls throughout Dubai. Check the map here for directions. Bookings: Tickets can be purchased online here.
5. Museum of the Future – Immerse in Knowledge and Creativity
This new museum offers a unique experience, with interactive exhibits and workshops that focus on the latest themes in technology and innovation. With tickets starting from AED 100/person, it is sure to provide enough entertainment for a day. Pricing: Tickets start from AED 100/person Location: Emirates Tower Blvd – Dubai How to get there: The Museum of the Future is conveniently located close to the Dubai metro station. Bookings: Tickets can be purchased online here.
6. The Room X – Ready for an Escape?
The Room X provides an indoor escape room experience, with breathtakingly realistic settings and challenging puzzles. With tickets starting from AED 130/person, this experience is perfect for a group of friends or family. Pricing: Tickets start from AED 130/person Location: Jumeirah 3, Street 10D – Dubai How to get there: The Room X is reachable by taxi, with the nearest metro station being Jumeirah Lakes Towers. Bookings: Tickets can be purchased online here.
7. Berl Enterprises – The Real Escape Room Experience
Berl Enterprises are your go-to for escape rooms. With five themed rooms available, you and your team can choose from a range of difficulty levels and enjoy a unique immersive experience. Pricing: Tickets start from AED 100/person. Location: The Dubai Mall, Unit 819 – Dubai How to get there: The Dubai Mall is conveniently located on the Dubai metro Red Line and the Dubai Water Canal. Bookings: Tickets can be purchased onlinehere.
8. Virtual Reality Gaming – Enter an Alternate Reality
Virtual Reality (VR) is booming in Dubai and there are few places better to experience the immersive technology than Hub Zero. With a selection of activities from horror experiences to underwater adventures, this destination is sure to make for an unforgettable visit. Pricing: Tickets start from AED 95/person Location: City Walk, Dubai How to get there: The City Walk is conveniently located close to the Dubai metro station. Bookings: Tickets can be purchased online here.
9. Wafi Bowling – Strike It Up
Wafi Bowling offers a whopping 16 lanes to keep you and your friends entertained for hours. From traditional bowling to cosmic bowling, this place has it all. Pricing: Tickets start from AED 32 per game/person Location: Wafi Mall, Level 1 – Dubai How to get there: Wafi Mall is conveniently located close to the Dubai metro station. Bookings: This activity is available on a first-come-first-serve basis, with no prior booking necessary.
10. Mojo Indubai – The Creative’s Playground
This hidden gem is sure to draw in some of Dubai’s biggest artistic minds. With activities ranging from Graffiti Art Classes to Glass blowing workshops, you and your friends are sure to find something to enjoy. Pricing: Fees vary depending on the activity, prices can be found here. Location: Jumeirah Al Wasl Rd – Dubai How to get there: This destination can be reached by taxi or Uber, with the nearest metro station being Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall. Bookings: All activities must be booked online starting here.
FAQ
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10 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Dubai
Insider Tip
The best time to explore Dubai’s hidden gems is during the winter months (November to March) when temperatures are pleasant. Early mornings and evenings offer the most comfortable conditions and the best lighting for photography.
10 Must-Visit Hidden Gems in Dubai
Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
Step back in time as you wander through the narrow sikkas (alleyways) of Al Fahidi, one of Dubai’s oldest neighborhoods. Dating back to the late 19th century, this district showcases traditional wind tower architecture and houses numerous museums, art galleries, and cultural centers.
Don’t miss the Coffee Museum, where you can learn about Arabic coffee traditions and sample different brews from around the world.
Discover Old Dubai: Al Fahidi Walking Tour
AED 125 per person
Alserkal Avenue
Once an industrial area filled with warehouses, Alserkal Avenue has transformed into Dubai’s vibrant arts and culture district. This creative hub houses contemporary art galleries, design studios, and unique concept stores.
The area regularly hosts exhibitions, workshops, and cultural events, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts and those seeking Dubai’s creative pulse.
Hatta Mountain Enclave
Just 90 minutes from downtown Dubai lies the mountain enclave of Hatta, a world away from the city’s urban landscape. This exclave of Dubai offers breathtaking mountain scenery, hiking trails, and the turquoise waters of Hatta Dam.
Adventure seekers can enjoy kayaking, mountain biking, or hiking, while those seeking relaxation can simply soak in the natural beauty and tranquility.
Hatta Dam Kayaking Adventure
AED 150 per person
Al Qudra Lakes
A man-made oasis in the desert, Al Qudra Lakes is a series of artificial lakes that has become a haven for wildlife and a popular spot for camping, cycling, and stargazing. The area is home to over 170 species of birds, including flamingos and swans.
The famous Love Lakes, two interconnected lakes shaped like hearts, have become a popular spot for photographers and romantics alike.
Al Qudra Lakes
A man-made oasis in the desert, Al Qudra Lakes is a series of artificial lakes that has become a haven for wildlife and a popular spot for camping, cycling, and stargazing. The area is home to over 170 species of birds, including flamingos and swans.
The famous Love Lakes, two interconnected lakes shaped like hearts, have become a popular spot for photographers and romantics alike.
These are just half of the hidden gems Dubai has to offer. Continue reading to discover five more incredible places that most tourists miss but should definitely be on your Dubai itinerary.
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Al Seef
Stretching along Dubai Creek, Al Seef blends the old and new with its dual design: one section features traditional Arabian architecture, while the other showcases contemporary design.
This waterfront promenade is lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, offering a pleasant place to stroll and soak in views of the creek. The traditional area, with its stone facades and wooden lattice screens, provides a glimpse into Dubai’s past.
Kite Beach
While Jumeirah Beach is well-known among tourists, Kite Beach offers a more local experience. As the name suggests, it’s popular for kitesurfing, but it’s also great for swimming, paddleboarding, and beach volleyball.
The beach features a jogging track, outdoor gym equipment, and a variety of food trucks and cafes. On a clear day, you can enjoy stunning views of the Burj Al Arab while relaxing on the sand.
Kitesurfing Beginner Lesson at Kite Beach
AED 350 per person
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Located at the mouth of Dubai Creek, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a wetland reserve that’s home to over 450 species of animals and 67 species of birds, including the iconic pink flamingos.
The sanctuary has three hides where visitors can observe the wildlife without disturbing them. It’s a peaceful escape from the city and a paradise for bird watchers and nature photographers.
The Coffee Museum
Tucked away in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, The Coffee Museum is a hidden treasure for coffee enthusiasts. This unique museum showcases the rich history and culture of coffee from around the world.
Visitors can explore antique coffee grinders, brewing equipment, and traditional coffee pots from different cultures. The museum also offers coffee tasting sessions where you can sample various international brews.
Al Khawaneej Last Exit
For a unique dining experience, visit Al Khawaneej Last Exit, a food truck park with a rural farm theme. This quirky destination features vintage trucks converted into food outlets, serving everything from gourmet burgers to artisanal ice cream.
The venue is designed to resemble a traditional farm, complete with barns, tractors, and even a small lake. It’s a popular spot among locals, especially in the cooler months when outdoor seating is pleasant.
Tips for Exploring Dubai's Hidden Gems
Transportation:
While Dubai has excellent public transportation, some hidden gems are more accessible by car. Consider renting a car or using ride-hailing services for more remote locations.
Timing:
Visit popular spots early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy cooler
Dress Code:
While Dubai is cosmopolitan, it's respectful to dress modestly when visiting cultural and historical sites. Carry a light scarf or shawl for women to cover shoulders when needed.
Photography:
Always ask permission before photographing locals, especially in traditional areas. Some museums and galleries may have restrictions on photography.
Weather Preparation:
Dubai's sun can be intense. Carry sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat, and stay hydrated, especially when exploring outdoor locations.
Ready to explore these hidden gems?
Conclusion
Dubai’s hidden gems offer a refreshing contrast to its more famous attractions, providing deeper insights into the city’s culture, history, and natural beauty. By venturing beyond the tourist hotspots, you’ll discover a more authentic side of Dubai that many visitors miss.
Whether you’re interested in history, art, nature, or culinary experiences, these lesser-known destinations have something to offer. So on your next trip to Dubai, set aside some time to explore these hidden treasures—you won’t be disappointed.
Have you visited any of these hidden gems in Dubai? Or do you have other secret spots to recommend? Share your experiences in the comments below!
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Quick Guide Overview
Price Range
AED 0 - 350 per activity
Most locations are free to visit
Time Needed
2-4 hours per location
Full guide: 2-3 days recommended
Locations
Spread across Dubai
From Old Dubai to Hatta (90 mins drive)
Best For
Couples, Families, Solo Travelers
Suitable for all age groups
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