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Marhaba! Welcome to Dubai, the modern metropolis, that has spectacular architectural marvels, pulsating nightlife, and action-packed shopping malls. With so many hangouts in Dubai from patio cafes, rooftop bars, beach clubs, to Dubai malls, a holiday in this exotic Emirate promises to be lively. The city has a palpable energy that is very hard to replicate. We take you on a journey through the best hangouts in Dubai. Become a part of the buzzing city life via a 360-degree experience.
Top Dubai Hangouts for Solo Travelers
1. View the Glitzy Emirate in a Helicopter Ride
Location: HeliDubai Jumeirah Heliport, Dubai Police Academy, Dubai, UAE
Go on an amazing helicopter ride to catch some spectacular views of the city. Enjoy a mind-blowing 15 or 25-minute chopper ride piloted by an experienced hand. The helicopter has seats for five passengers. It flies you to give an outstanding birds-eye view of Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, and other attractions. Soar above Dubai and capture incredible views. Don’t miss the marvelous sights of the Atlantis Hotel along with the beauty of the Business Bay District, Emirates Tower, and Burj Khalifa.
2. Venture on a Delightful Walking Food Tour
Location: Dubai Souks and Creekside Food Walk, Middle Eastern Food Pilgrimage, Little India on a Plate (location and route varies based on the tour booked)
Take a walking food tour, a perfect gourmet experience as a solo traveler. Absorb the true culture of Dubai as you indulge in an authentic Arabic eatery. Taste the famous Arabic crepe, exciting dips like Hummus, revel in a live pasta station, or relish healthy cuisine at a salad bar. The cultural adventure gives you Arabic, Iranian, and Indian food tasting experiences. Wander the Dubai souks that sell authentic spices and shop for interesting souvenirs.
3. Be Wonderstruck at the Sights from Burj Khalifa
Location: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, UAE
A great place to visit solo is the iconic Burj Khalifa. Located right next to the biggest mall in the world, Dubai Mall in Dubai. Admire the view of the city from atop the world’s tallest building piercing the sky standing at 828 meters. Go up the stunning skyscraper and unleash your spirit of adventure. Watch the breathtaking views of the city from the Observation Decks on the 124th floor and 148th floor. Marvel at the architectural and engineering brilliance of the tower. This is your ‘me moment’ as you watch solo, the breathtaking views, and immerse in the goodness of life’s travel moments.
4. Explore the Historic Neighborhood of Al Fahidi
Location: Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Al Fahidi Street, Al Souq Al Kabeer, Bur Dubai
Discover the district with original infrastructure intact from traditional wind towers made of teak, stone, palm wood, and gypsum. Wander each alley and understand the story of life before the unification of the Emirates. It is a great idea to travel during the Sikka Art Fair and Heritage Week. The Al Fahidi district has over 50 houses to explore. Starting from Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, Coins Museum, Symposium House and Events House, Calligraphy House to name a few. Conclude with a visit to the Municipality House, a splendid example of Dubai architecture.
5. Slide Down the Golden Dunes in a Desert Safari
Location: Off AI Ain Highway (E66), Dubai, UAE
Another best place to hang out in Dubai solo is the desert dunes. Glide down the golden sands of the Arabian desert in a sandboarding experience. The Desert Safari is a great way to indulge in the cultural aura of Dubai. Enjoy an experience of a desert excursion in a vintage Land Rover. Marvel at the desert wildlife in the famous Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Stay in a luxurious Bedouin camp, witness a falconry display, take a camel ride, and dance to Arabic entertainment. Watch the sun slowly rise over the desert landscapes and absorb the peace of the desert dunes.
Top Dubai Hangouts For Couples
6. Celebrate Togetherness on a Luxury Yacht
Location: Dubai Marina, Dubai, UAE
Spend charming moments on the coral waters with your beloved. Take a cruise that includes a romantic dinner on a yacht. This three hours cruise with unlimited beverages, a romantic table setting, and amazing Dubai skyline views is unforgettable. Marvel the marina in the luxurious yacht ride equipped with fridges, towels, grills, and warm hospitable crew. Sit hand in hand over a candlelit dinner beautified by flowers. The luxury yacht is a very professional experience to enjoy with your partner in Dubai.
7. Spend Time as a Couple at The Kite Beach
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road Api World Tower, Dubai, UAE
The beach is the best place to hangout in Dubai as a couple. Spend a most romantic day in this one-stop destination for beach vibes, adventure water sports, and fabulous food. Relax on the soft sandy beach and indulge in romantic moments. Join in the water sports fun together from parasailing, wake-boarding, kite surfing to surfing. Your entire day turns into an unforgettable date. Retire after the action-packed day to enjoy the finest fast food available at The Kite Beach.
8. Make Timeless Memories on a Dhow Cruise
Location: Behind Al Rahim Mosque, Marina Promenade, Dubai, UAE
The dhow offers the right atmosphere to ignite romantic feelings with your partner. The lavish interiors and the warm red carpet welcome is overwhelming. Spend a romantic evening, taste a delicious buffet meal and enjoy magical moments. Sail the beautiful marina waters together. There is entertainment with music onboard. So, drop your inhibitions and dance with your partner. Let the moment capture your senses as the cool breeze of the marina fills the air. The Arabic cultural rendezvous will stay in your hearts forever.
9. Create Romantic Memories at Burj Al Arab Spa
Location: Jumeirah Street, Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai. UAE (4 km from Mall of Emirates Dubai)
Walk-in hand in hand into Burj Al Arab, the world’s most luxurious hotel. Visit the Talise Spa for a couples massage. The masseurs use high-quality skincare brands such as La Prairie and Sundari. The amazing spa treatments are given in the privacy of couples’ suites. Caviar facials, anti-aging treatments, aromatherapy, Swedish and Thai massages, reflexology, chakra balancing, and more are on offer. Experience the ultimate luxury in a spa perched at 150 meters above the Arabian Gulf. Luxuriate and feel utterly pampered. Take a moonlight swim after a session and find your bliss as a couple.
10. Confess To Love in the Sky in a Hot Air Balloon
Location: Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai, UAE
Enjoy the sunrise views as the hot air balloon takes you and your loved one above the golden dunes. Absorb the grand ariel views of the desert. See the dawn break over the desert and relish an onboard breakfast. The ride also includes an onboard violist whose music will set the tone of the moment. The balloon will fly over the billowing dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. The exemplary adventure includes witnessing falcons fly up to 4000 feet in a trained demonstration. Take splendid pictures of sunrise with the Hajar Mountains as the backdrop. Stay safe in the care of an experienced pilot and enjoy the dramatic desert display.
Top Dubai Hangouts for Family
11. Enjoy skiing in the desert city at Ski Dubai
Location: Mall of Emirates Dubai, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1, Dubai, UAE
Imagine throwing a snowball or skiing in the middle of a desert city. Visit the awesome skiing facility in the Mall of the Emirates Dubai. Experience the ultimate in winter pursuits where there is fun for everyone. The expansive snow park of 3000 sq feet offers a snow wonderland. Go ahead and hit the twin-track Bobsled runs, enjoy tobogganing, skiing, or the Bullet Ride. With so many adventurous activities this is the coolest place to hang out with friends in Dubai. Kids have a great time too with adorable Gentoo and king penguins. The park also provides all the necessary accessories. So, experience the utmost fun and become a winter sports enthusiast.
12. Enter the World’s Largest Aquarium
Location: The Dubai Mall, Financial Center Street, Sheikh Zayed Road, Next to Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE
One of the best hangouts in Dubai with friends and family in tow is the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Located in the Dubai Mall in Dubai, you get to see the fascinating world of aquamarine life. The world’s largest suspended aquarium holds a 10 million liter water tank. Walk along the 48-meter long underwater tunnel and view over 30,000 aquatic animals. You could also experience the wonders of water activities such as Cage Snorkeling, Dive with sharks, or the Glass Bottom Ride. Don’t miss the giant ‘King Croc’, piranhas, penguins, lizards, rays, and more, that swim past you.
13. Have fun at the IMG World of Adventure
Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, City of Arabia, Dubai, UAE
Spend time at Dubai’s first mega theme park, one of the popular hangouts Dubai offers. IMG Worlds of Adventure has four epic adventure zones with adrenaline-pumping rides. Attractions are based on MARVEL Super Heroes, Thor Roller Coaster, and more. Kids would love the prehistoric experience at the Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure Zone and the Cartoon Network attractions. Step into the interactive world of Lazy Town or visit the town of Elmore in The Amazing Ride of Gumball.
14. Seek Thrill at Atlantis Aquaventure & Lost Chamber
Location: Atlantis The Palm, Crescent Road, Dubai
Join the fun in an area of about 42 acres, Atlantis Aquaventure is one of the largest Middle East’s water park. It is on the splendid manmade island of Palm Jumeirah and part of the exquisite five-star resort, Atlantis. Splash and slither in the 700-meter Adventure Beach, surf up the ultimate wave rider, have a super scary Poseidon’s Revenge, try the Master Blast water coaster, and more. At Atlantis Lost Chamber, journey through the passages that are considered the remains of the Lost City of Atlantis. The chamber has 65,000 exotic marine creatures within 20 aquariums. There is also an exclusive kid’s zone with water slides, climbing structures, and games.
15. Marvel at the dancing Dubai Fountain
Location: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, UAE
See the amazing choreographed fountain system located on the 12-hectare man-made Burj Khalifa Lake. A wonderful attraction to enjoy with friends and family, it is at the center of Downtown Dubai. Among the various hangouts Dubai offers, this is a popular spot outside the Dubai Mall. Be amazed at the 900-feet length of the fountain designed by the creators of the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas. Watch the unique design of five circles of different sizes, two arcs, and powerful water spouts. It shoots up water to unbelievable heights in different patterns. The fountain is a wonderful water dance that you can enjoy. Also, take the 30-minute boat ride on Burj Lake to enjoy the breathtaking scenes.
Top Dubai Hangouts for Night Crawlers
16. Stroll the streets of JBR The Walk
Location: The Walk, Jumeirah Beach Residence, Dubai, UAE
The Walk is one of the best night hangout places in Dubai. The wonderful 1.7 km strip of land is filled with cafes, boutiques, restaurants, and a beach. Watch the street plays with art displays, musical entertainment activities, stalls selling fashion merchandise, and a host of other thrilling activities. Stroll along the white sandy beach, sip a cup of coffee in a cozy cafe, and take in the vibrant brew with the Dubai night skylines in the backdrop. This beautiful man-made marina is an incredible therapeutic walk to catch the multitudes of skyscrapers illuminated at night. The Walk is near Dubai Marina, a beautiful avenue lined with palm trees.
17. Set Sail on the Dazzling Dubai Creek
Location: Baniyas Road, Deira, Dubai, UAE
One of the top night hangout places in Dubai is the Dubai Creek. Dubai’s waterfront is electrifying at night with the beautifully floating Rustar restaurant. Get onboard the premium Dhow Cruise and admire the sparkling landmarks of Deira. Settle in the elegant outer deck seats to enjoy the traditional boat cruise. Pass by the floodlit Rolex Towers, souks, and other landmarks. The sumptuous Arabic dinner cuisine is served in the Rustar dhow floating restaurant. Enjoy colorful Emirati dance and live music in the magic of the desert breeze. Cruise around Old Dubai for two hours to enjoy the views of a luxurious destination.
18. Horse Ride Under Moonlight at Mushrif Park
Location: Al Qudra Road, Next to Dubai Studio City, 7477, Dubai, UAE
Experience magical moments in the oldest park in Dubai, Mushrif Park. Horse riding especially on a full moon night past the surroundings of the park is a unique experience. The surreal ride under the gleam of the moon is a tranquil feeling. The 90-minute Full Moon Ride happens twice a month. Saddle up at the Mushrif Equestrian and Polo Club, as your guide takes you back to nature. The full moon’s glow, the shimmering trees, the ambient light from the Mirdif, and the Zen-like atmosphere make this a worthwhile experience.
19. Go Clubbing at the Best Nightclubs in Dubai
Location/Venues: The Penthouse, White Dubai, Zero Gravity, BOA Lounge & Club, BASE Dubai
Get your adrenaline pumping to enjoy over-the-top sophisticated nightclub hangouts Dubai has to offer. Dance the night away to the music of renowned DJs that perform frequently. You could choose from a club that is part of a high-end hotel or a beach club. The clubs offer great service with innovative food and beverages. You could party at a high-tech ultramodern White Dubai, an open-air club in Dubai. Or dance to music at The Penthouse on the 16th-floor terraces, a lively rooftop club, and lounge. Sip a sundowner and enjoy views of Marina Bay. Club Boudoir, Zero Gravity, BOA Lounge & Club, People by Crystal are some of the other hangouts in Dubai.
20. Globe Trot the World at Global Village Dubai
Location: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road, Exit 37, E 311, Dubai, UAE
Wander the Global Village to imbibe the carnival-like atmosphere, a great place to hangout in Dubai at night. Explore at leisure the entertainment park with craft and cuisine pavilions and replicas of the Colosseum, Taj Mahal, and more. The village operates in the winter months between November and April. Have a great time in the country-themed rides, park entertainment shows, food stalls, and shopping venues. The Global Village at Dubailand is best visited during the Dubai Shopping Festival for shows and concerts. Enjoy mini landmarks, global cuisine, and exquisite fireworks on certain nights. You are in the world’s largest tourism, leisure, and entertainment projects in Dubai.
Top Dubai Hangouts for Shopping
21. Shopping Extravaganza at Outlet Village Dubai
Location: Jebel Ali, near Dubai Parks and Resorts, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, UAE
Head to the Outlet Village Dubai for luxury fashion labels and high-end retail brands at huge discounts. The Tuscan-styled mall houses departmental stores with renowned labels at value prices and is a popular Dubai hangout. Browse this non-stop shopping spot that gives you super deals on fashion clothing. There are also international dining venues in the mall for a tasty bite. This is where the world’s best fashion is on offer at the best bargain prices. This discount shopping mall sells some of the prominent names such as DKNY, Coach, Calvin Klein, and more.
22. Admire Globe’s Largest Mall, The Dubai Mall
Location: Financial Center Street, Along Sheikh Zayed Road, Next to Burj Khalifa, Dubai, UAE
Step into the world’s largest shopping mall with a total internal floor area of 5.9 million square feet. This is an international shopper’s dream as you navigate the mall with 1200 retail stores. World-class flagship brands such as Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Alexander McQueen, and more are on offer. The mall in Dubai is one of the best places to hang out in Dubai. The Dubai Mall also entertains and is home to the world’s largest aquariums and aquatic zoos. You can witness the amazing 270-degree walkthrough tunnel at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
23. Visit the Egyptian-themed WAFI Mall
Location: Oud Metha Road, Dubai, UAE
Enjoy being greeted by striking sphinx statues as you arrive at WAFI Mall, one of the popular Dubai malls. Wander the opulent Egyptian themed Dubai mall with over 350 shops and designer stores. Look out for the spectacular stained-glass pyramids as you shop at Burberry, Roberto Cavalli, and Chopard. The Dubai Mall also houses the Souk Khan Murjan that offers plenty of Arabian handicrafts. Browse around the grand store Dubai Mall that also has over 30 eateries, an outdoor pool, and a mini-golf facility. The Dubai Mall promises to be a delightful shopping experience for the entire family.
24. Immerse in an Award-Winning Liquor Store
Location: Emirates Terminal 3, Dubai International Airport, Dubai
Dubai Airport Shopping at the Emirates Terminal 3 presents an award-winning Dubai liquor store, Le Clos. The place has an amazing collection of Fine Wines and Luxury Spirits. The store offers decommissioned whisky, personalized bottle engraving, and tasting area facilities. Buy the finest vintages of Chateau Lafite Rothschild, Petrus, Screaming Eagle, and more. There is also a range of luxury Champagne featuring Dom Perignon Oenotheque, Rare Vintage Malts, century-old Armagnac, and excellent Cognac vintages. There are two Dubai Airport shops, concourse A near Gate 01 and concourse B adjacent to Gate B8.
25. Shop at Carrefour in the Mall of the Emirates
Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha Al Barsha 1, Dubai, UAE
Carrefour Hypermarkets offer a variety of products in a marketplace style format. Visit the hypermarket in the Mall of the Emirates Dubai, which caters to every shopper’s need. You get quality products in diverse sections that include on-site baking, meat and fish counters, food, personal care products, household goods, entertainment, and more. Hypermarkets in Dubai Mall stores offer products at a lower cost with promotions and discounts all year. You can also shop online for Carrefour products via the app. The retail outlets are operated by Majid Al Futtaim across the Middle East and North Africa.
Top Dubai Hangouts for Eating Out
26. Fine Dine in the Spectacular Burj Khalifa
Location: 122 floor, Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai, UAE
Enjoy fine dining on the 122nd floor of the world’s tallest tower, Burj Khalifa. Imagine being perched atop an engineering feat with a delicious meal. The tour of the building comes along in the experiences. Relish cuisine from a contemporary menu with majestic views of the city and beyond. Relax in the lounge and gorge on the finest European cuisine with top quality ingredients. You could try oysters, wagyu tenderloins, foie gras, and more. Dine in style among the clouds with options of high tea and lunch services too. Book ahead so you get the best seating with views of the Dubai Fountain. Remember, sunset is the most coveted time to arrive here.
27. Indulge in Desert Dining at Al Hadheerah
Location: Bab Al Shams Resorts & Spa, Al Qudra Road, opposite Endurance City, Dubai, UAE
Step into the magic of Arabian Nights as you dine in Al Hadheerah. The resort’s signature restaurant under the open sky offers tasty and authentic Arabian food. You can sample the outstanding buffet and outdoor barbecue. Roll your tongue over delicious kebabs, munch into hot mezze, grilled fish, and a whole lamb. There are special nights on Thursday and Friday with a spectacular firework display. The restaurant offers a traditional fort setting with the entertainment of a live band, falconry displays, and dancers. The famous Bab Al Shams Resort & Spa is next to the Heritage Village that you could explore as well.
28. Dine at the Japanese Restaurant, Hanami
Location: Andaz Dubai the Palm, Andaz Dubai, Dubai, UAE
Relish Japanese street food venue on the 15th floor of Andaz Dubai the Palm. The Asian restaurant with an open kitchen and sushi counter offers amazing Dubai skyline views from its terrace. Relish grilled skewers, maki rolls, sushi platters, burgers, nori tacos, tempura, and more. The range of street food choices on the menu is amazing. The bar offers wines, beers, sake infusions, cocktails, and other spirits. Sip on a drink customized by a team of mixologists.
29. Enjoy a Royal Dining at the Queen`s Grill
Location: Port Rashid, Dubai, UAE
Queen’s Grill is a unique fine-dining venue aboard Queen Elizabeth 2. The restaurant maintains the ocean liner feel and serves elegant British cuisine. Savor delicacies made by expert chefs, such as butter confit lobster and braised lamb. The floating hotel is permanently anchored at Port Rashid. Dine aboard the ship with magnificent sea views for an exhilarating experience. Book in advance and browse the menus on the QE2 Dubai website. A cool night hangout place in Dubai, enjoy fine dining in an original ocean liner. The restaurant was often visited by royalty for its classic British cuisine.
30. Crunch into Sweet Fries at the Palm Grill
Location: The Ritz-Carlton Dubai, The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR), Dubai, UAE
A wonderful dine-out by the beach, the Palm Grill is a beachfront restaurant of the Ritz Carlton. Relish amazing seafood and meats cooked to world-class standards. Sway to live mellow music as you savor the splendid cuisine. Try specialties like pulpo, Camarones al ajillo, grilled prawns, and more. The favorite for kids is a palm grill burger or the Barramundi fish. Take in splendid garden views of the Ritz Carlton, perfect service, awesome drinks, and beach view. End the meal with a peanut dessert served with cream or ice cream.
31. Say Cheers in Riverland, an Irish Village
Location: Riverland, Dubai Parks & Resorts, Dubai, UAE
Choose from chicken salad sandwiches, ham, and cheese, classic burgers, roast beef, bacon, or New Zealand beef. Pair it with gin and tonic or draft beer to have a fabulous dining experience at The Irish Village. This is your small piece of Ireland in Dubai. Located in Dubai Parks & Resorts, it is an all-time favorite place to hang out in Dubai at night. The place has fireworks during Eid. The village is an amazing place to relax on the weekend. Don’t miss the traditional Irish stew, fish, and chips with tartar sauce or the Mallon’s Irish sausages. You could pair it with red or rose wines, a popular choice at The Irish Village. This is a popular place to hang out with friends in Dubai.
Recommended Read: 10 Exciting Things to Do at JBR Dubai
