The best new experiences in Dubai

Dubai continues to set new standards in leisure and adventure, offering a wide range of unmissable experiences for travellers of all ages.

Here is a curated selection of the newest and most spectacular experiences in Dubai, designed to delight even seasoned visitors.

 

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With sun-drenched days, clear skies, and warm temperatures, the city is perfect for sunbathing by the sea or enjoying a variety of waterfront activities – but that’s just one side of Dubai.

Beyond its stunning beaches, visitors can explore world-class shopping, gourmet dining, and immersive entertainment, alongside thrilling rides, indoor sports, and interactive attractions. Families and social media enthusiasts will find countless Instagram-worthy moments, while those seeking panoramic city views, fine dining, or wellness retreats can indulge in relaxation and comfort.

Woman standing in water with the Ain Dubai- World's Tallest Observation Wheel in the background

 

 

Witness the magic of the world-famous fountain

If you’re visiting Dubai, the Dubai Fountain at the foot of the Burj Khalifa is a must-see. This world-famous spectacle features soaring water jets, dazzling lights, and perfectly choreographed music performances.

After a recent upgrade, the fountain now boasts brighter lights, clearer sound, and the same breathtaking shows that have made it an iconic Downtown Dubai attraction. Using state-of-the-art robotics, it shoots 22,000 gallons of water up to 140 metres high, creating an unforgettable experience.

The Dubai Fountain at the foot of the Burj Khalifa during nighttime

Photo source: Unsplash

Shows run daily from 6:00 pm to 11:00 pm, every 30 minutes. For the best view, head to the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk, a 272-metre floating platform just nine metres from the fountains – ideal for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

The Dubai Fountain and the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk for the best view to the fountain

Photo source: Unsplash

Whether with family, friends, or solo, the Dubai Fountain is one of the top evening activities in Dubai and a must-see sightseeing experience.

 

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Wander through a spectacular flower garden

For a truly unique Dubai attraction, the Dubai Miracle Garden is a must-visit. As the world’s largest natural flower garden, it spans 72,000 square metres and features over 150 million blooming flowers in imaginative, colourful displays.

The Dubai Miracle Garden is the world's largest natural flower garden

Photo source: Visit Dubai

Stroll along heart-shaped pathways, explore floral castles, and wander among full-size houses and whimsical sculptures – perfect for family fun, romantic moments, and Instagram-worthy photos. Open during Dubai’s cooler months (November to May), the garden is at its most vibrant when flowers are in full bloom.

In the Dubai Miracle Garden you can see full-size houses and floral castles

Photo source: Unsplash

With its stunning day and illuminated nightscapes, the Dubai Miracle Garden is a magical escape and one of the top things to do in Dubai.

 

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Step into a tropical rainforest adventure

Escape the city heat and step into a tropical rainforest in the heart of Dubai at The Green Planet, home to over 3,000 species of plants, animals, and birds. This indoor rainforest biodome lets you get up close to sloths, parrots, and other exotic creatures, offering a wild escape without leaving the city.

A tropical rainforest in the heart of Dubai - The Green Planet

Photo source: Visit Dubai

Perfect for family outings, romantic dates, or adventurous experiences, The Green Planet spans four immersive levels – Canopy, Midstory, Forest Floor, and Flooded Rainforest – each showcasing the vital role of rainforest ecosystems. Visitors can enjoy interactive activities, waterfalls, free-roaming animals, and even try being a “zookeeper for a day”.

Visitors to the Green Planet in Dubai can try to be a zookeeper for a day

Photo source: Unsplash

For a truly unforgettable adventure, book the overnight rainforest camp, featuring a nocturnal animal tour, dinner around the campfire, and a cosy tent stay. Wake up to feed the animals and enjoy a complimentary breakfast, making it a fully immersive Dubai family experience.

 

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Explore the cultural wonders and flavours

Step into a world of wonder at Global Village Dubai, one of the city’s top attractions for families, couples, and thrill-seekers. Celebrating its 30th season, the park features 3,500+ shopping outlets, 250+ dining options, and a variety of live shows and entertainment, making it a must-visit for culture, shopping, and fun.

The Global Village Dubai offers themed pavilions, shows and events, and other attractions

Photo source: Visit Dubai

The park’s themed pavilions are its main highlight, showcasing heritage, traditions, and crafts from over 90 cultures across 30 pavilions. Visitors can enjoy authentic performances, handcrafted souvenirs, and global cuisine, making it one of the best cultural experiences in Dubai.

Global Village also offers adventure and thrills, with over 200 rides and attractions at Carnaval and the redesigned Horror Hotel for thrill-seekers. The entertainment line-up includes 40,500 live shows with 450 performers from more than 30 nationalities, including the Fast Live Spectacular with motorbike stunts, drifting, fire, and explosions.

The Global Village Dubai welcomes visitors to watch spellbinding shows

Photo source: Visit Dubai

With its mix of culture, rides, and shows, Global Village Dubai guarantees non-stop entertainment for visitors of all ages.

 

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Indulge in luxury at Dubai’s new resort

For luxury accommodation in Dubai, One&Only One Za’abeel is a spectacular newcomer and a true show-stopper. Perched within the world’s longest sky bridge, the resort connects twin towers and offers breathtaking views of downtown Dubai.

One&Only One Za'abeel is a spectacular newcomer in luxury accommodation

Photo source: Visit Dubai

Guests can enjoy ultra-luxury suites, nine fine dining restaurants led by Michelin-starred chefs, a rooftop infinity pool, spa treatments, and bespoke fitness experiences. Curated city tours and exclusive gourmet events add to the unparalleled experience.

One&Only One Za'abeel offers luxury rooftop infinity pool with a view of downtown Dubai

Photo source: Visit Dubai

Despite its “vertical resort” design, One&Only One Za’abeel reflects the brand’s signature warmth, intuitive service, and thoughtful luxury, making every stay unforgettable.

Ideal for romantic getaways, family holidays, or business trips, it sets a new benchmark for high-end Dubai hotels with architectural brilliance, five-star service, and unrivalled city views.

 

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Visit the world’s first football theme park

The world’s first football theme park, Real Madrid World Dubai, has opened at Dubai Parks and Resorts, offering a thrilling experience for football fans, families, and adventure seekers. As one of the top new attractions in Dubai, the park combines interactive exhibits, adrenaline-filled rides, and authentic football experiences.

The world’s first football theme park, Real Madrid World Dubai, has opened at Dubai Parks and Resorts

Photo source: Visit Dubai

Visitors can enjoy over 40 attractions, including the region’s first wooden roller coaster and the world’s tallest swing chair ride at 140 metres, providing breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline.

A highlight is the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium recreation, where guests can explore a replica locker room and relive iconic football moments using AR and VR technology.

At the world’s football theme park, Real Madrid World Dubai, guests can explore a replica locker room

Photo source: Visit Dubai

With its combination of family-friendly rides, immersive games, and football history, Real Madrid World Dubai is a must-visit destination in Dubai for families, football enthusiasts, and thrill-seekers.

 

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Celebrate the joy of confectionery

Last autumn, Dubai welcomed the world’s first Museum of Candy, an Instagram paradise celebrating the art and joy of confectionery. Visitors can explore candy-themed rooms, from a life-size lollipop forest to cotton candy clouds and a sprinkle-filled pool, perfect for memorable photos and social media moments.

The Museum of Candy is an Instagram paradise celebrating the art and joy of confectionery

Photo source: Tripadvisor

The Candy Lab lets guests create personalised confections alongside expert “candy scientists,” while the museum’s candy-inspired art – including mosaics and sculptures made from real sweets – adds a creative and educational twist.

With its interactive exhibits, sensory experiences, and photo-perfect settings, the Museum of Candy is a must-visit Dubai attraction for families, couples, and anyone with a sweet tooth.

 

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Step into a new era of shopping

Cityland Mall Dubai is one of the city’s most exciting new attractions, offering a world-class shopping, dining, and entertainment experience. With 350+ stores, 75 restaurants, and a 10-screen cinema, the mall blends retail and leisure in a striking open-air environment.

Its highlight is the open-air roof featuring lush green spaces, including a Japanese garden and a miniature Miracle Garden, making it an Instagram paradise for stunning photos.

The Cityland Mall Dubai highlight is the open-air roof featuring lush green spaces

Photo source: Cityland Mall Dubai

The mall delivers a full lifestyle experience, combining shopping, dining, entertainment, and nature. Families can enjoy activities and play zones, couples can stroll through scenic gardens, and social media enthusiasts will discover countless photo-perfect moments.

Whether you’re visiting for retail therapy, gourmet dining, or to explore its innovative architecture, Cityland Mall Dubai is a must-visit destination, redefining the city’s shopping and leisure scene.

 

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Play indoor golf like never before

Dubai is already renowned for its world-class golf courses, but last autumn saw the opening of Five Iron Golf at the Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, bringing a revolutionary indoor golf experience to the city.

As the largest Five Iron Golf in the world, this venue combines golf, entertainment, and wellness in a single destination for enthusiasts and casual visitors alike.

The Five Iron Golf in Dubai offers a revolutionary indoor golf experience to the city

Photo source: Tripadvisor

The facility features 17 state-of-the-art golf simulators, perfect for beginners learning the game or pros refining their swing. Guests can also enjoy a nine-hole mini golf course, golf-focused fitness studio, and a spacious terrace for relaxation and socialising.

The on-site restaurant and bar complete the experience, making it a full lifestyle destination for families, friends, and corporate groups.

Bussola Restaurant - Terrace at the Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

Photo source: Tripadvisor

With its combination of cutting-edge technology, immersive golf experiences, and leisure amenities, Five Iron Golf Dubai offers a fun, interactive, and memorable experience, quickly becoming one of the must-visit destinations in Dubai.

 

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See Dubai from the world’s tallest observation wheel

After reopening last December with enhanced features, Ain Dubai offers visitors unparalleled views of Dubai’s skyline. Standing at 250 metres, the world’s tallest observation wheel features 48 air-conditioned cabins, providing 360-degree panoramic views during a 38-minute rotation.

December 2024 reopened Ain Dubai is the world's tallest observation wheel

Photo source: Visit Dubai

The enhanced experience now includes premium dining cabins, where guests can enjoy five-course gourmet meals prepared by dedicated chefs and served by attentive butlers, turning a traditional observation wheel ride into a luxury dining experience in Dubai.

For a more exclusive setting, the Upper Circle Restaurant & Lounge offers VIP rotations for 8-25 guests, featuring curated menus, expertly crafted cocktails, and personalised service.

Combine gourmet dining with a perfect view of Bluewaters Island in Dubai from Ain Dubai

Photo source: Ain Dubai

Ain Dubai also features immersive entertainment, including interactive screens highlighting landmarks, live music in select cabins, and themed seasonal experiences.

Whether for a romantic evening, family outing, or special celebration, Ain Dubai combines adventure, fine dining, and sightseeing, making it one of the must-visit attractions in Dubai.

View of the Bluewaters Island in Dubai from above

Photo source: Visit Dubai

 

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Cover photo source: Visit Dubai

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