Dubai Things to do

The Desert
Simply essential. Exciting 4X4 Dubai desert safaris are great fun and normally include an oasis, plenty of opportunities for photography and a camp barbecue. The overnight trips with Bedouin tents, a campfire, belly dancing and music offer an extraordinary experience. Both individual and group tours can be arranged. Superb horse riding in the desert too.

Shopping
Even the most hardened anti-consumerist will gasp at the sheer verve and architectural brilliance of Dubai shopping centres and the incredible range of luxury products. Dubai duty-free shopping is legendary. The famous gold souks are a must, and have excellent prices.

Explore Dubai City
Full of surprises, from its futuristic architecture to its atmospheric gold and spice souks. There are plenty of excellent sightseeing tours. Visit the older parts of The Creek with its traditional wooden dhow boats and extraordinary modern monuments like the Jumairah Mosque.

Attractions for Children
Dubai attractions are surprisingly good for family holidays. The Wild Wadi and Wonderland water parks are exceptional, and are a fun way to cool down. Other popular Dubai attractions include Magic Planet, a Snow Dome and everything from karting and ice-skating to hi-tech bowling. For animals try the Khor Dubai wildlife sanctuary

Excursions
Popular Dubai excursions include the Forts of Nizwa and the fascinating, historic, cultural city of Muscat. The 4x4 trip to the impressive Hajar Mountains will probably visit the oasis of Al Dhaid or Masafi.

Horse and Camel Racing
Dubai horse riding is internationally famous. Dubai Racing Club, at Naad Al Sheba, is a great trip out. Less well-known is Dubai camel racing, though the sport has many adherents. Don’t miss out on the chance to see both the camels and the intriguing atmosphere and setting. Highly recommended.

Golf
The Dubai Creek Golf Club, Nad Al Sheeba Golf and the Emirates Golf Club are just three legendary Dubai golf courses. True golf fanatics could arrange a Dubai golf holiday to coincide with the prestigious Dubai Desert Classic tournament

Unusual Sports
Your chance to try sand boarding, sand skating, sand skiing, dune buggies, and 4X4 desert and dry river bed driving.

Art
The Middle East has become an important player in the world art scene in recent years and is building some terrific galleries to prove it.

Dubai by air
Spectacular views of city, desert and mountain landscapes from planes, helicopters and balloons.