Popular Things to Do in Downtown Dubai

Packed with many iconic landmarks and spectacular promenades, the stunning and flamboyant Downtown Dubai offers a plethora of fun things to do. From sightseeing and shopping to fine dining and educational tours, Dubai offers something or the other for all kinds of travelers, irrespective of their age and interest.You can visit the Dubai exploration tour by climbing to the observation deck of the iconic Burj Khalifa and witnessing the city from a whole new perspective. Head some meters and you will reach the magnificent Dubai Mall, where you can shop from luxury brands. You can also meet marine life at the Dubai Aquarium and enjoy ice skating at the Dubai Ice Rink, right in this mall. If you want a respite from the glitz and glamor of the city, unwind and witness some brilliant art at the Sconci Art Gallery. If you just want to relax and want to take a break from the hustle and bustle of life then you should visit Burj Park, where you will witness many works of art as well as the Dubai fountain. Or you can visit the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, where you can visit with your family and your kids will learn all about the animals as well as marine animals.

Visit Burj Khalifa
Visit Burj Khalifa

One of the most popular things to do in Downtown Dubai is visiting the world’s tallest building, the iconic Burj Khalifa. Climb through the 160 stories of this 828 meters high tower and soak in the breathtaking unrivaled view of the city. You can also relish some gourmet delights at the ultra-luxurious Atmosphere cafe, while enjoying the jaw-dropping views. Check out the spectacular Burj Club, which houses an advanced gym, an Olympic-sized swimming pool, a posh restaurant, and a tranquil spa.

Explore Dubai Mall
Explore Dubai Mall

If you are a shopaholic, one of the top things to do in Downtown Dubai for you should be visiting the magnificent shopper’s paradise, the iconic Dubai Mall. You will be spoiled with endless shopping options here and can shop till you drop from your favorite luxury brands like Louis Vuitton, Prada, and Gucci. Not only shopping, but you can also enjoy dining at some of the fine food outlets in this mall. You may also want to see the marine animals at the Dubai Aquarium and go ice skating at the Dubai Ice Rink, while you are at this gigantic mall.

Watch Dancing Fountain at Dubai Fountain
Watch Dancing Fountain at Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain makes an important attraction in the nightlife culture of the city. So, if you are seeking some nighttime fun in Dubai, visit the mesmerizing, dancing Dubai Fountain, which sits on the enormous Burj Lake. Marvel at the towering water expulsion, which reaches an altitude of over 140 meters. Witness the jaw-dropping spectrum of colors that are produced by over 25 projectors and 6,600 WET Superlights. The fountain is choreographed to an enthralling playlist of super amazing songs that will leave you totally spellbound.

Explore Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Explore Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

The world-famous Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is one of the most recommended things to do in Downtown Dubai for families. This 10 million liters aquarium will offer you a glimpse into the charismatic marine life it houses. As you take a tour of the Underwater Zoo, you can encounter a variety of fascinating aquatic animals including penguins, piranhas, seahorses, crabs, stingrays, white sand tiger sharks, and jellyfish. Some of the amazing experiences you can enjoy here include glass-bottom boat tour and swimming with the sharks.

Have fun at Kidzania
Have fun at Kidzania

One of the best things to do in Downtown Dubai with kids is heading on a day out to the popular Kidzania. Here, your kids can learn by performing role-plays, mimicking various professions, including doctor, police officer, and firefighter. The kids are rewarded with a fictional currency (kidZos) for their work in their chosen occupation, in an attempt to encourage them and make them familiar with the real-world work life. If you are visiting Kidzania with your toddlers, you can have them play in their separate safe and engaging toddlers’ area.

Relax at Burj Park
Relax at Burj Park

Relaxing at the breathtaking Burj Park is one of the most favorite things to do in Downtown Dubai among leisure seekers. While you are here, take a stroll or enjoy cycling through the wide walkways of the park. As you explore the park, you can see a plethora of amazing artworks crafted by eminent global artists. Some of the prime highlights you may want to check out at Burj Park include The Wings of Mexico and the Dubai Fountain.

Skate at Dubai Ice Rink
Skate at Dubai Ice Rink

If you are an adrenaline seeker, one of the most suggested Downtown Dubai things to do is heading to the ground floor of the Dubai Mall and enjoying skating in the spectacular ice rink. It also features an events venue and a dance floor, ensuring ultimate fun and thrill for skaters of all experience levels. You can skate to the disco beats, go freestyle, or try your own stunts, enjoying the art to your heart’s content.

Visit Dubai Frame
Visit Dubai Frame

Pay a visit to the stunning 150 meters tall and 93 meters wide Dubai Frame, which resembles a beautiful photograph frame. When you look at it closely, you can see that the frame connects the historic district of Dubai to its modern cityscape. Take a walk through its sky deck, which is made of crack-proof glass and turns crystal clear from haze once you step on it. Check out the various levels of the frame and catch the breathtaking splendid view from here in the evening.

Visit Sconci Art Gallery
Visit Sconci Art Gallery

Paying a visit to the fascinating Sconci Art Gallery is definitely one of the most recommended Downtown Dubai things to do for art lovers. As you take a tour of this mesmerizing gallery, you can witness classical as well as contemporary collections, dating from the 17th century to the present day. You can also encounter magical creations by renowned artists, including Carlo Morganti and Antonio Corpora. Not only can you admire the artworks displayed here, but you can also purchase your favorite pieces.

Visit Souk Al Bahar
Visit Souk Al Bahar

Pay a visit to Souk Al Bahar to enjoy the perfect amalgamation of unlimited shopping, endless entertainment, and good food. This place is a contemporary twist to the traditional Arabian markets and you will love shopping here for some luxury authentic souvenirs. As you shop for Arabian antiques, handicrafts, spices, gold jewelry, hand-woven fabrics, and perfumes, marvel at the traditional Arabian decor of this place. Once you are done, relish some culinary delights at one of the many restaurants and cafes here, offering homegrown as well as international cuisines.

Stroll around the JBR
Stroll around the JBR

One of the best Downtown Dubai things to do for couples is taking a hand-in-hand stroll around the postcard-perfect Jumeirah Beach Residence area. As you walk here, you can shop for fashion and handicraft items from the retail outlets here. You can also relish delicious local food from the plethora of food outlets stationed here. You will also see a number of brilliant street entertainers showing their skills and pleasing the crowd with their talents.

Enjoy theater at Dubai Opera
Enjoy theater at Dubai Opera

You can never experience the true art and culture of Dubai without catching a show at the highly reputed, iconic Dubai Opera. You can enjoy an impressive show here performed by renowned local as well as global artists. Experience the opportunity to admire brilliant world-class musicals like ballet, pop, rock, and many more. After the show, visit the amazing rooftop restaurant Sean Connolly at Dubai Opera and relish a toothsome dinner while soaking in the breathtaking city views.

FAQ's of Dubai

What is the best way to reach Downtown Dubai?

    Taking the Dubai Metro is the best and cheapest way to reach Downtown Dubai. However, you can also book a cab and get to downtown Dubai from any part of the city, if you want more convenience and ease.

Which are the most popular theme parks in Dubai?

What is the best time to visit Dubai?

How many days are enough to explore Dubai?

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