The United Arab Emirates isn’t short on showstoppers. Beyond the record-breaking skyscrapers and glittering shopping malls, though, lies a trove of unforgettable experiences that are worthy of your bucket list. Whether gazing at starlit skies in the world’s largest sand desert, mountain biking through emerald wadis in the Hajar Mountains or partaking in a sophisticated afternoon tea at the Burj Khalifa, the country delivers activities as diverse as its landscapes.
From immersive fine dining in an aquarium to ziplining at the UAE’s highest peak, these 10 travel experiences showcase the country’s wild beauty, cultural richness and knack for world-class luxury for both first-time and frequent visitors.
Soak in Palm Jumeirah views from Cloud 22
One of the best ways to appreciate the engineering marvel that is Palm Jumeirah — the plant-shaped archipelago that has a central trunk, fronds and a surrounding crescent — is a dip in Cloud 22’s infinity sky pool at Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Atlantis The Royal. The glamorous, adults-only rooftop pool club offers unparalleled views of Palm Jumeirah and the gulf from 315 feet; a menu serving Mediterranean fare; and a chic swim-up bar. For the ultimate pool day in Dubai, reserve a floating bed, sun lounger or cabana with a plunge pool, or indulge in a luxurious pool villa.
Dine in an aquarium
You can enjoy fine dining like nowhere else at Ossiano, an immersive culinary concept 33 feet underground at Four-Star Atlantis, The Palm, in one of the region’s largest aquariums. A 10-course meal at the Five-Star eatery feels both like a journey through the world’s coastal landscapes and an ode to seasonality, terroir and sea foraging. Sample beautifully presented dishes like scallops with white corn, almond and coconut, and Norwegian langoustine with passionfruit and jalapeño. You’ll dine in the company of stingrays, sharks, moray eels and schools of fish, all gliding past the restaurant’s floor-to-ceiling windows.
Stargaze in the Abu Dhabi desert
To peer into the skies in the UAE’s most impressive natural landscape, head to Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara in Abu Dhabi’s Liwa region, a two-and-a-half-hour drive from Abu Dhabi city. Built like a grand desert fortress with watchtowers, regal fountains and palm-tree-lined walking paths, the resort is at the edge of Rub’ al Khali.
Here in this vast sandy landscape (also known as the Empty Quarter), colossal dunes create a breathtaking setting for stargazing — an activity that the resort can organize. After a short desert drive, find yourself under a starlit night sky in the company of an enthusiastic adventure guide and stargazer. Learn about the achievements of Arab astronomers and spot constellations, stars and planets through a telescope over an evening of spirited storytelling.
Go on a heritage-inspired desert safari
For a unique perspective in Dubai, make your way to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve with the experts at Platinum Heritage on a Heritage Desert Safari. Accompanied by a conservation guide, you’ll discover the beauty of the Dubai desert, learn about the native flora and fauna, and spot sand gazelles and Arabian oryx, all from the comfort of a Land Rover Defender. Afterward, sit down to an Emirati dinner and shisha and partake in traditional dancing and drumming for a fun end to the evening.
For a more upscale option that involves sunset canapes, a private cabana with a falconry demonstration, a six-course meal by a respected chef and a dazzling display of fire and acrobatics, book the Platinum Desert Safari. This high-end desert outing can be arranged during a stay at Five-Star Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach.
Soar along one of the world’s longest ziplines
For a brag-worthy adventure in the UAE, head to Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah, the country’s highest peak, standing 6,345 feet above sea level in the Hajar Mountains. At the Jais Adventure Center, zip across the valley from 5,511 feet on Jais Flight, reaching thrilling speeds of 75 to 99 miles per hour as you soar above jagged desert mountains, winding roads and plunging canyons on one of the world’s longest ziplines. For a less terrifying alternative, consider the Jais Sledder, a rider-operated toboggan that you’ll maneuver around the slopes at 25 miles per hour.
Consider Anantara Mina Al Arab Ras Al Khaimah Resort for a luxurious base for excitement in the emirate. Between adventures, you’ll find gorgeous overwater villas, a natural mangrove reserve and plenty of watersports here.
Catch a show or take a tour of the Dubai Opera
A striking example of contemporary architecture in the city, the Dubai Opera is worth visiting to admire its elegant, dhow-shaped design — a nod to the city’s maritime heritage — and to glimpse at its beautiful interior. Guided tours of the opera give a closer look at the building’s design, sculptures and artworks while granting behind-the-scenes access to the fascinating backstage areas.
For an even more enchanting evening, check out the official program and book tickets to watch ballet, contemporary dance, a concert or a stand-up comedy show. Nearby, Five-Star Armani Hotel Dubai, in the Burj Khalifa, is an excellent choice for a stylish stay in Dubai’s most prestigious neighborhood.
Get your fill of mountain adventures in Hatta
Leave Dubai’s urban attractions behind and drive 90 minutes to Hatta, a town at the foot of the Hajar Mountains, just north of the protected Hatta Mountain Reserve. Here, a landscape of rugged peaks, emerald lakes, palm groves and rocky wadis provides abundant opportunities for adventure — whether you’re hiking or biking along the area’s 20 miles of trails.
Nearby, at Hatta Dam, rent a kayak and enjoy a peaceful few hours on the quiet waters, surrounded by dramatic peaks. The activity center at Wadi Hub offers more fun in the form of archery, ax throwing, a ropes course and zorbing (rolling downhill in a hamster-like wheel).
Unwind with the Rainforest Experience on Bluewaters Island
While there are many reasons to visit Banyan Tree Dubai on Bluewaters Island, a highlight is the understatedly elegant Banyan Tree Spa, which promises to leave you relaxed with its extensive menu of illuminating facials, revitalizing body treatments, herbal baths and soothing massages that draw upon Asian wellness heritages.
But if you seek quick rejuvenation after a day of adventures in Dubai, don’t think twice before booking the 60-minute Rainforest Experience, a hydrothermal journey through a series of steam rooms, saunas, themed showers, Jacuzzis and jets in a recommended sequence.
Enjoy a sky-high afternoon tea at the Burj Khalifa
To see Dubai’s most astounding views in style, skip the crowded observation decks at the Burj Khalifa and head to Four-Star At.mosphere Restaurant and Lounge, set at a dizzying height of 1,450 feet, on the 122nd floor of the world’s tallest skyscraper. Over afternoon tea at the lounge, take in the sophisticated French art deco interiors while you nibble (freshly baked scones, mini sandwiches), sip (premium coffees, teas and champagne) and feast on astounding panoramic views over the city.
Dive into the world’s largest waterpark
There are a host of epic underwater exploits for all ages at Aquaventure World back at Atlantis, The Palm. The splashy wonderland sits on more than 50 acres, which means some strategizing will be in order if your goal is to ride the world’s largest waterslide tube, float on the longest river in the region and see as many of the nearly 65,000 marine animals as possible. To help with the latter activity, go diving or snorkeling under the guidance of professionals to see stingrays, sharks and hundreds of other animal species up close.
