A Dubai Weekend Getaway
Dubai is the most happening city in the Emarat. Bustling metropolis by day and pulsating night queen by sunset. The sprawling city is dominated by concrete skylines, glow-in-the-dark gardens, blooming expanses of green, and Instagram-worthy views. Dubai’s stunning palate offers a taste for everyone: from the adrenaline junkie to a family of five, there is something for everyone.
What are the best places to visit in Dubai? The best places to visit in Dubai is contingent to who you are. Dubai is a place for all – adventure seekers, families, and weekenders alike. But rest assured, you can find your spots in Dubai.
Looking for top weekend getaways or exciting things to do over the weekend? Look no further, we have got everything covered. There are abundant things to do on the weekend in and around Dubai. From day activities at malls and adventure parks to staycations in the city as well as quick weekend getaways a drive away, we have all the places on our fingertips.
Best Things to do in Dubai Over the Weekend
Dubai is bustling with things to so. Adventurous activities for the thrill-seekers, family time outs for those with kiddos. Don’t have the time to make a trip across the world? Enjoy a staycation in the city or head out to one of the neighboring towns for a quick getaway. We have broken down entertainment activities and things to do in Dubai as follows:
For the Adventures seekers
Off the Beaten Track
Families Day Out
Weekend Staycations
Weekend Getaways
Adventure
For the adventure-seeking, Dubai has plenty to offer, take a day to explore the bumpy deserts, exercise those calf muscle on Al Qudra cycling track or enjoy a night under the stars at a glamping resort, there is a lot to choose from. Here we have narrowed down our favorite to-dos for a perfect weekend.
Ziplining
For the thrill-seekers, there is plenty of things to explore. Witness glorious views of the Marina, as you whiz down the most extended, urban zip line in the world at a speed of 80 km/hr.
Desert Safari and Dune Bashing
It is going to be a bumpy ride, but one that is worth it. The undulating soft sands of the desert are inviting and full of activities. A stunning camp in the middle of the desert offering dune bashing, camel riding, surfboarding and a delicious buffet under the stars. A great way to spend the weekend.
Get the adrenaline running as you go off-road for some dune bashing and into the desert high on 4X4 SUVs. This can be part of the desert safari or an exclusive event in itself.
Camping
Camping under the stars, soft balmy winds blowing your hair and a fire to keep you warm, sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? Versatile Dubai has plenty of desert camping opportunities. Hire a company to make it happen for you or venture out on your own. It will be an experience you will never forget. Plenty of sites include Al Qudra lakes, Umm Al Qawwam beach, or you can even head out to Fujairah. Best time to go camping would be the colder months from November to March.
Do not enjoy getting your hands dirty? Well then you can opt for glamping, a fancy version of camping where you can enjoy a luxurious night out in preset tents and hammocks and enjoy a delicious bar-b-q too! The shores of Jebel Ali are one such picture-perfect spot to watch the setting sun for a luxurious experience. Many hotels and camping companies offer glamping: from tents to trailers and real Bedouin experience, along with posh amenities to make sure you are as comfortable as possible.
Cycling
For sports lovers, a great way to spend the weekend is away from the hustle and bustle of the city and explore the network of pure cycling tracks along Al Qudra road. Enjoy a stretch of 80kms of uninhibited paths and undulating sands for a scenic ride. Great way to get a break from the city or just enjoy some pure alone or family time.
Water Sports
The lush Arabian gulf has many water-based activities for all kinds of thrill-seekers. For the serious ones, there is Flyboarding, and for the more laid back there is deep-sea fishing. Read on to explore what suits your style the best as you hit the water this weekend.
Flyboarding
The latest extreme sport to land on Dubai shores is Flyboarding, which pumps you up ten meters in the air! Aboard is attached to a hose connected to a jet-ski engine which pumps water at great speeds and sends you flying up in the air. Not for the faint-hearted!
Parasailing
Get panoramic views of the city as you sail up in the wind. Parasailing is one of visitors’ favorite activities in Dubai. Feel the flutter as you rise up in the air and then soar as gracefully as an eagle. Perfect water sports for those who like to balance adventure with safety!
Kite surfing
A favorite with Dubai Marina visitors and residents, Kite surfing is a must-do on the coast. Tied to big parachutes are surfers on their boards, racing through the water. Some companies offer safe kite surfing activities for kids as well. Perfect for the whole family.
Diving
While not many reefs exist along the coast of Dubai, you can certainly take a dive in the beautifully themed aquariums of Atlantis the Palm. With over 65,000 fish including Mantra rays and Sharks, one of the largest aquariums in the world allow you to experience gorgeous species in a safe and controlled environment!
Speed Boating and Jet Ski
Not an adrenaline junkie, then you and your family can hop on a speed boat and dash around in the water to experience the beautiful city skyline and view the best landmarks. Feeling bolder? Hop on a Jet-ski and experience the tumultuous waves around Burj Al Arab. Makes for a great Instagram story!
Off the beaten path
Want to get away from the flamboyant city life? We have curated a list of places off the beaten path where you can breathe in the less-seen landscape and explore the cultural and natural sites of UAE.
The Flamingo City
Beyond the high rises which characterize Dubai, are natural havens, largely untouched by visitors and residents. Al Wathba Wetland Reserve is one such place which hosts these stunning birds in their natural habitat. Plan and map well, and your family will be delighted by the gorgeous birds along with other species that live there.
Umm Al Qawain Wetlands
This wetland is perfect for nature lovers for bird spotting and experiencing nature in the desert. Umm Al Quwain is one of the seven of the emirates and have preserved this natural wetland. Discover the blue lagoon with islands, mangroves and water channels between them.
Wad Al Bih
The grand canyons of the Middle East, Wad Al Bih attracts those looking for some off the road hiking, mountain biking and even camping. The one-km ravine offers unseen views of the UAE. Plan well to avoid the rainy season and accompanying flash floods.
Families Day Out
You need a solid plan to engage them before the kids spiral out of control and their unrelenting energy seems more like a threat. What better way than to exhaust them with their favorite character themed activities. Head out to the fabulous parks and malls where time and energy will fly out in no time!
Dubai Parks & Resorts
Looking for an all-inclusive family fun time? Look no further! Dubai Parks & Resorts, a themed entertainment center is perfect for an action-packed family weekend getaway. A Polynesian- themed hotel called Lapita is nestled between an array of three large thematic parks as well as a waterpark: Legoland, MotionGate and Bollywood Parks!
Motiongate brings to life the legendary studios of Columbia Pictures, Dreamworks and Lionsgate. Think roller coasters, 3D immersive attractions and adrenaline-rushing rides while you soak up features and figurines from classics and blockbusters like The Smurf, Shrek and The Hunger Games.
Bollywood Park is the first and one-of-its-kind park in Dubai. Straight out from the movies, the park culls up dances, interactive rides, singalong performances and five fun thematic zones based on block-buster movies. Also featuring the first Broadway-style Bollywood musical, Jaan-e-Jigar featuring stellar performances at the spectacular Rajmahal theatre.
Legoland needs no introduction; get intrigued with this park featuring forty Lego-themed rides, 15,000 models made of lego, and several indoor and outdoor rides, this park is going to be a family favorite. Wait, there is more! The Legoland water park is a custom-build Lego waterpark designed for families with children 2-12 years of age in mind. Featuring customizable rafts for Build-a-Raft-River, wave pool, 20 Lego slides and a Duplo Toddler area; Legoland is a park you will have to drag your family out of.
Stroll through the scenic walls and lagoons of Riverland Dubai, a ticket-free zone featuring a mouth-watering array of fifty restaurants to suit every taste and palate. It is divided into four districts: The Peninsula, India Gate, The Boardwalk and The French Village; each district features international architecture, bridges and landscapes. Riverland is a destination in itself.
IMG Worlds of Adventure
Already bored and looking for the next best adventurous place to spend your weekend? Look no further than the gates of IMG. One of the biggest indoor parks of Dubai, it is the size of 28 football fields, so make sure you wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Thrilling rides starring your favorite characters such as Powerpuff girls, and none other than characters from Marvel Cinematic Universe. Witness life-size Dinosaurs at the Lost Valley or enjoy immersive games with BEN 10. Get ready to make life-time memories while you enjoy non-stop adventure at IMG.
Ski Dubai at Mall of the Emirates
Let the temperature take a nose-dive as you hit the slopes of in-door ski resort, and yes that too in a mall! With penguins that you can interact with! Your kids will love this one as you are not too far away from cozy restaurants and a gaming arcade right next door. Nothing seems impossible in Dubai, right? A great family day out where you can ski, shop, dine and play all under the same roof!
La Mer Beach
Can you really spend an entire day of the weekend at a beach? Well you will be surprised. La Mer is a gorgeous and contemporary new beach development with so much to do! Extending 2.5 km along the Arabian Sea on Jumeirah 1, Dubai, culture, art and fun melt into the golden sands of the beachfront. Graffiti and murals blend together artistically, while timber walkways lead to promenades and hold cafes and hammocks where you can sway to the rhythm of the waves. Palm trees shade several carts and kiosks offering an array of delicacies and cold treats. If you want more action than the beach offers, it also hosts a waterpark with artificial waves and plenty of water rides and slides to keep you busy. Famished? The eclectic beach cove has divine delicacies you can dive in. More than 130 shops, cafes, and restaurants dot the beach, offering something for everyone. Equipped with all amenities including showers, changing rooms and charging stations, it also has cabanas that you can rent to beat the heat and snooze in the sun.
Day trip to Sharjah
Head north to the twin city of Sharjah, which is regarded as the cultural capital of the UAE. Housing several art galleries, a dozen museums, as well as an Arabian Wildlife Center with a. promising breeding program for certain endangered species of animals. Al Majaz waterfront offers glorious views of the bay, while the kids enjoy various entertainment such as mini golf, parks and play areas; adults can relax at one of the many restaurants that dot the waterfront. A short trip and a day well spent soaking culture, art and some play on the side.
Staycations
While you may not have the time to book a flight for a quick getaway and be back in time, relaxed for the next work week; Dubai has ample staycation opportunities to choose from. Head out a few kilometers outside the city for some family fun. Or just pack your bags and move to a hotel next door for a quick staycay.
Atlantis, the Palm
A world in itself, Atlantis at the Palm offers a plethora of things to do that are bound to keep you occupied all weekend. Delicious dining options, swimming pools, Sea lion Reserve, Aquaventure Waterpark, and Dolphin Bay are some of the key attractive features offered at the Palm. Not to mention the majestic hotel itself with gorgeous views of its attractions, as well as the Arabian Sea lapping on its shores. Head out to walk on the Boardwalk at its doorstep or get beguiled by the huge aquarium and beautiful species the resort houses. Want to rock the night away? Tuck the kids into bed and step out onto Nasimi Beach which stars the best parties in Dubai.
Bab Al Shams
This desert resort is a world away from Dubai. Away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but close enough for a quick social call, Bab al Shams stands against the serene backdrops of sand dunes and a star-studded sky. It combines the rustic charm of the Middle East with swanky luxury and hospitality native to this part of the world. Full of desert-based activities such horse riding, falconry, and desert driving, along with mouthwatering Arabian cuisine is sure to keep you longing for more.
Bvlgari Luxury Resort
Stay in style at the Bvlgari Luxury Resort, a recent gem in the crown of luxurious properties in Dubai. It is dubbed as an ‘urban oasis’ built on a man-made island, connected to Dubai coastline via a bridge. Swoon worthy views, this resort has several hotel rooms as well as private villas and a private Marina and Yatch Club. The star of this show is the Italian restaurant headed by Michelin star Italian chef Niki Romito. Not to mention the amazing Bvlgari Spa which is a sanctuary for tired limbs.
Le Royal Meridien Beach Resort & Spa
The uber chic Le Meridien is a favorite amongst residents and tourists. Fabulous facilities including a private beach, entertaining kids club and three swimming pools to choose from. Sundowners, soft sands and a stunning sunset, we can smell a stellar staycation a mile away!
Top Weekend Getaways near Dubai
Have a weekend on hand and need a change of scenery? Dubai is neighbor to several cities and stops that offer the perfect getaway for you and your family.
Al Ain
The sleepy city of Al Ain is a lush and laid-back getaway from the mega city of Dubai, and a two-hour drive from the capital Abu Dhabi. Known as the Garden City, the Al-Ain Oasis is a palm fringed delicate oasis in the city, now a UNESCO protected heritage site. But what really brings people to Al-Ain is the towering 1400-meter mountain, rising over the southern suburbs of the city, offering stunning views of al-Ain, Abu-Dhabi and bordering Oman. If you plan to continue enjoying the views, a swanky hotel sits stop a hill on the way to the top. The nail-biting ride with twists and turns will keep you on the edge, but at sunset, the view from the top, glittering below you will be worth it. This trip ticks off the list, both stunning views and a long drive.
Abu Dhabi
The regal capital of the UAE may be no match to Dubai in terms of concrete skyscrapers, swanky malls and fancy beaches, but Abu Dhabi holds it own. It is one of the most favorite getaway spots from Dubai as it offers a host of entertainment, shopping and fun activities; an exhaustive list for a weekend vacation.
First things first, it is aflush with five-star hotels and resorts. Looking for a fabulous beach stay? Look no further than the swanky Saadiyat Island. Home to the most fabulous hotels in the city, choose from a variety of luxury including the stylish St.Regis which offers exceptional services, including a butler. Or head to Jumeirah at Saadiyat and enjoy floor to ceiling views while you lie in the lap of luxury. Dig your feet in the 1300foot long stretch of soft white sands and witness the pristine glittering waters of the Gulf.
If you care to look past the luxurious beach resorts of Saadiyat, then some art and culture beckons you to the recently opened Louvre which holds classic pieces of art from around the world. If culture is your mojo, then a visit to Abu Dhabi is incomplete without paying respect to architectural wonder that is Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It welcomes Muslims and Non-Muslims alike and gives a glimpse into one of the most popular religions in the world: Islam. Another way to explore the local culture is to visit the Heritage Village, which showcases the Bedouin lifestyle of Arabian ancestors through the museum’s various exhibits.
Abu Dhabi has also added several world-acclaimed gems into its crown, one of them being the Amusement Park: Ferrari World. The stunning theme park based on the namesake Italian car brand holds the title of having the world’s fastest roller coaster. For car fanatics to thrill-seekers, this is a true family destination.
Thrills for seekers do not end here; Abu Dhabi also holds the annual Grand-Prix event Formula 1 at the famous Yas Marina Circuit. Speed lovers flock to the location to get a glimpse of cars racing and can even rent one to experience the rush themselves.
Yas Waterworld is another stop for the family when looking for entertainment for all. The popular water theme park provides an excellent relief from the heat and fun way to spend some time together.
Need a getaway from a getaway? Well a short boat ride away is the scenic Zaya Nurai Island which hosts a resort; the perfect place to relax in the sanctity of privacy.
Abu Dhabi has a lot more to offer to you so that you don’t get bored. Visit the Emirates Palace hotel, a prestigious residence in the city to experience opulence and lavish decorations and Islamic art. A long expanse of beach, known as the Corniche, is a popular hang-out for residents and visitors alike. Split into public and family beaches and dotted with restaurants, the eight km expanse provides a beautiful outline of the sea. The city also has several malls where you can catch some great deals on shopping and dining.
Fujairah
On the east coast lies the town of Fujairah, a three-hour drive from Dubai, a small industrial city that is mostly known for Al Aqah beach, which is home to several renowned resorts. Families and couples head out to Fujairah’s many private beach hotels such as Le Meridien, Fairmont and Radisson Blu. The hotels provide ample water-based activities such as bathing, diving and snorkeling in the pristine blue waters. The resorts also house abundant entertainment from tennis courts to pools and Jacuzzis, kids play areas and in-house musical entertainments and delicious buffets. You really don’t need to step out unless it is to dance under the stars attune to the frequent musical performances. A perfect weekend getaway for all.
Hatta
Hatta is home for the adrenaline seeking. Kayak down the Hatta dam or hike through one of the many wadis. Enjoy a dip in the emerald lagoons in the wadis while others picnic at the popular spot. Take a mountainous safari through the rugged ranges of Hatta on your 4×4 wheel-drive if you will. Enjoy paid and free activities at the Hatta Wadi Hub including downhill carting, archery, axe throwing and zip lining. While you are at it, book a royal pampering session at the JA Hatta Fort Hotel. Sounds plenty to keep your time busy right?
RAK
Now, we are familiar with the fact that anywhere in the UAE, you can root your way to a stunning, luxurious stay and that can totally be the highlight of your getaway. Looking to cool down ten degrees? A great escape from the desert heat can be up the tallest peak in the UAE, at Jabel Jais. Go for all-inclusive resorts like Rixos Bab Al Bahar on Marjan Island, where you don’t need to constantly keep track of your receipts. Play an 18-hole at the championship golf course at Al Hamra Beach and Golf Resort. Recline at the relaxing Waldorf Astoria or get a Bedouin style experience at the Al Wadi Desert resort where you can chill in your private villa and pool. Ras Al Khaimah is only and all about a luxurious getaway.
Dubai is a versatile and exciting destination offering outstanding entertainment, luxurious hospitality, fabulous shopping, coupled with a dose of culture and addictive convenience. Within 50 years it has transformed itself into a business and tourist hub, and a great place to live for expats and locals alike. In spite of the weather, its hi-tech facilities have made it possible to enjoy all aspects of Dubai; from the traditional souks to extravagant malls, unparalleled entertainment and luxurious hospitality. With a diverse range of activities, Dubai truly has something for everyone.
