The world’s tallest building, a mosque that holds 40,000 worshippers, and golden deserts that meet turquoise waters. The UAE packs seven emirates into a nation where futuristic skylines rise next to ancient souks. Things to do in UAE range from skiing indoors in the desert heat to watching the sun set over endless sand dunes.
This guide covers the best experiences across the country. You’ll find the glittering towers of Dubai, the cultural landmarks of Abu Dhabi, the heritage sites of Sharjah, and adventure spots that most tourists miss. We’ve included timings, costs, and practical details so you can plan your trip without confusion.
1. Burj Khalifa, Dubai
Standing at 828 meters, Burj Khalifa remains the tallest building on the planet. The observation decks on levels 124, 125, and 148 offer views stretching across the city, desert, and Arabian Gulf. This is among the must see places in UAE that draws millions of visitors each year.
High-speed elevators whisk you up in under a minute. The At The Top experience on levels 124-125 suits most visitors, while the SKY experience on level 148 adds a guided tour and refreshments. Book tickets online to secure your preferred time slot, especially during sunset hours when demand peaks.
- Google Rating: 4.7/5 stars
- Location: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Burj Khalifa – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Open 24 hours
- Entry Fee: Starting at AED 209/ INR 5,200, set aside 3 to 4 hours to explore this major attraction
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2. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque welcomes visitors of all backgrounds into its stunning marble halls. Built as a vision of the UAE’s founding father, it features 82 domes, gold-plated chandeliers, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet in the main prayer hall.
Free guided tours run throughout the day and explain the architectural details and cultural significance. Modest dress is required, and abayas are available at the entrance for those who need them. A visit here ranks among the top things to do in UAE for anyone interested in Islamic art and architecture.
- Google Rating: 4.8/5 stars
- Location: Al Rawdah – W54 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Saturday–Thursday 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Friday 9:00 AM – 12:00 PM, 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Free (pre-registration required online), set aside 1.5 to 2 hours for the visit
3. Dubai Frame
Shaped like a massive golden picture frame, this 150-meter-tall structure offers a unique way to see old and new Dubai in one visit. One side frames the historic Deira district while the other showcases modern skyscrapers of Downtown and Sheikh Zayed Road.
The experience starts at the Old Dubai Gallery on the ground floor, then an elevator ride takes you to the Sky Deck with its glass-bottom walkway. The Future Gallery shows how Dubai might look decades ahead. Located in Zabeel Park, this is an easy half-day outing and counts among the fun things to do in UAE for families.
- Google Rating: 4.5/5 stars
- Location: Zabeel Park Jogging Track – Al Kifaf – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Daily 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Adults – AED 50/ INR 1,200 and for Child – AED 20/ INR 500, set aside 2 to 3 hours to explore this area
4. Museum of the Future
This torus-shaped silver building on Sheikh Zayed Road houses interactive exhibits about space exploration, climate solutions, and emerging technologies. The design features Arabic calligraphy carved into its exterior, creating a striking visual even from outside.
Inside, you journey through different floors that simulate life aboard a space station, explore bioengineering labs, and discover potential solutions to environmental challenges. Kids have their own floor with hands-on activities designed to spark creativity.
- Google Rating: 4.4/5 stars
- Location: 67CP+H4Q – Sheikh Zayed Rd – Trade Center Second – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Daily 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Adults and Children (4+) – AED 169/ INR 4,200, set aside 2 to 3 hours for the visit
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5. Desert Safari
No trip to the UAE feels complete without a desert adventure. Evening safaris pick you up from your hotel, take you to the dunes for thrilling dune bashing, and end at a Bedouin-style camp with dinner and entertainment.
Activities include camel rides, sandboarding, henna painting, and watching traditional Tanoura and belly dance performances under the stars. Morning safaris focus more on adventure activities like quad biking and sandboarding, while overnight options let you sleep in the desert.
- Google Rating: NA
- Location: Various desert locations (Lahbab, Al Awir)
- Timings: Evening tours typically 3:00 PM – 9:00 PM | Morning tours 5:30 AM – 11:00 AM (May vary)
- Entry Fee: Guided tour prices vary based on the operators, set aside 7 to 8 hours to enjoy the desert tour
6. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
Home to Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster reaching 240 km/h, this theme park on Yas Island delivers pure adrenaline. Over 40 rides and attractions sit under the largest space frame structure ever built, all inspired by the Italian racing brand.
Beyond thrill rides, younger visitors enjoy gentler attractions like the Junior Grand Prix and Speed of Magic dark ride. Racing simulators put you behind the wheel of an F1 car, and Italian restaurants serve authentic cuisine throughout the park. This is a full-day destination and ranks high among fun things to do in UAE for families and thrill-seekers.
- Google Rating: 4.5/5 stars
- Location: Yas Island – YS1 – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Monday – Tuesday 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM | Wednesday – Sunday 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM
- Entry Fee: General Admission starting from AED 345/ INR 8,500, set aside 4 to 8 hours to completely explore the attraction
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7. Dubai Mall & Aquarium
Connected to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall houses over 1,200 shops along with a giant aquarium, ice rink, and indoor theme park. The Dubai Aquarium holds 10 million liters of water with sharks, rays, and thousands of fish visible through a 48-meter tunnel.
Window shopping here is an experience in itself, with luxury brands alongside high street favorites. The mall also has an Olympic-sized ice rink, VR Park, and countless dining options. You could spend an entire day without seeing everything. With so many activities under one roof, this easily qualifies among things to do in UAE for tourists who want variety.
- Google Rating: 4.6/5 stars
- Location: Burj Khalifa – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Monday – Friday 10:00 AM – 10:15 PM | Thursday–Saturday 10:00 AM – 11:15 AM
- Entry Fee: Ticket price – AED 209/ INR 5,200, set aside 2 to 3 hours depending on interests
8. Palm Jumeirah
This man-made island shaped like a palm tree extends into the Arabian Gulf and hosts luxury resorts, beach clubs, and fine dining. You can walk the boardwalk, ride the Palm Monorail, or simply admire the engineering from above at The View observation deck.
Atlantis The Palm sits at the crescent and includes Aquaventure Waterpark with its record-breaking slides. Beach access is available at various hotels and public spots. Whether you want a day of water activities or a sunset dinner by the sea, Palm Jumeirah delivers and belongs on any list of must see places in UAE.
- Google Rating: 4.7/5 stars
- Location: The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Open 24 hours (attractions have individual timings)
- Entry Fee: Starting price – AED 110/ INR 2700 for adults and AED 75/ INR 1850 for children, 1 to 2 hours would be enough to explore the area
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9. Louvre Abu Dhabi
The first Louvre museum outside France sits on Saadiyat Island under a stunning geometric dome that filters sunlight into what architects call a “rain of light.” Collections span centuries and civilizations, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works.
Masterpieces from both the Louvre Paris collection and UAE acquisitions rotate through the galleries. The building itself, designed by Jean Nouvel, deserves time to appreciate from multiple angles. Art lovers and architecture enthusiasts alike will find this among the most rewarding things to do in UAE today.
- Google Rating: 4.7/5 stars
- Location: Saadiyat – Abu Dhabi – United Arab Emirates
- Timings: Tuesday – Thursday, 10:00 AM – 6:30 PM, Friday – Sunday, 10:00 AM – 8:30 PM, Monday – Closed
- Entry Fee: Adults – AED 70/ INR 1,720, Under 18 – Free, set aside 2 to 3 hours for the visit
10. Dubai Marina
This waterfront district features a 7-kilometer promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and towers reflecting on the canal. The Marina Walk and JBR Beach sit nearby, making it easy to combine a beach day with evening dining.
Dhow cruises offer dinner with views of illuminated buildings, while speedboat tours add some adrenaline. After dark, the district comes alive with restaurants and lounges, placing it among the best night things to do in UAE. You can also catch the Ain Dubai observation wheel on Bluewaters Island just across the water.
- Google Rating: NA
- Location: Dubai Marina, Dubai
- Timings: Open 24 hours (restaurants and attractions have individual timings)
- Entry Fee: Marina Walk – Free, prices may vary based on attractions, set aside 1 to 2 hours for the area
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FAQs
What are the top things to do in the UAE for first-time visitors?
Start with Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall since they sit next to each other in Downtown Dubai. Add the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi for culture and a desert safari for adventure. These four experiences cover the main highlights in just two or three days.
What are some fun things to do in the UAE with kids?
Ferrari World and Aquaventure Waterpark keep children entertained for full days. Dubai Aquarium inside Dubai Mall works well for shorter visits. Global Village offers carnival rides and treats from around the world during its winter season.
Are there night things to do in the UAE worth experiencing?
Dubai Marina and JBR Beach come alive after sunset with dining and entertainment. The Dubai Fountain show near Burj Khalifa runs every 30 minutes in the evening and costs nothing to watch. Desert safari evening packages include dinner and cultural performances under the stars.
What is the best time to visit the UAE?
November through March brings cooler temperatures between 20°C and 30°C, perfect for outdoor activities. Summer months (June–August) see fewer crowds, but temperatures above 40°C limit daytime exploration. Ramadan timings affect restaurant hours and some attractions.
How many days do you need in the UAE?
Five to seven days let you explore both Dubai and Abu Dhabi without rushing. A long weekend works for Dubai highlights alone. Add two extra days if you want to include Ras Al Khaimah or Fujairah for mountains and beaches.
Is the UAE expensive for tourists?
Budget travelers can find affordable options like Global Village, free mosque visits, and public beach access. Mid-range visitors should expect ₹13,000 to ₹20,000 daily, including accommodation, meals, and activities. Luxury experiences like helicopter tours and fine dining cost considerably more.
Do I need a visa to visit the UAE?
Citizens from over 60 countries receive a visa on arrival or visa-free entry. Indian passport holders need a tourist visa, which can be applied for through airlines, hotels, or visa service providers like OneVasco. Processing typically takes 2–3 working days.
What should I wear in the UAE?
Modest clothing works best in malls, restaurants, and public spaces. Cover your shoulders and knees when visiting mosques or government buildings. Beach resorts and pool areas allow swimwear. With so many attractions, cultural sites, and natural wonders, things to do in UAE offer something for every traveler, regardless of budget or interest.
