Discover Dubai’s Top Museums

Explore the best museums in Dubai, from ancient history at Al Fahidi Fort to cutting-edge innovation at the Museum of the Future. Learn about must-visit attractions for families, history buffs and selfie addicts.

Museum of the Future

Beneath Dubai’s veneer of glittering skyscrapers and luxury malls lies a deep cultural heritage, best experienced through its world-class museums. Whether you’re dreaming of time-traveling to the Iron Age, walking among the stars (or their waxy doppelgängers), or immersing yourself in candy-coated fantasy lands, Dubai’s museums offer something for everyone. One thing that’s certain: There’s no shortage of over-the-top attractions in Dubai.

From history buffs to art aficionados, these cultural gems promise more than knowledge — they deliver unforgettable adventures. And the city is a great place for families to visit. There are plenty of things to do with kids in Dubai.

Ready to uncover the past, embrace the present and peek into the future? Let’s dive into Dubai’s top museums that are guaranteed to enrich your trip (and, let’s face it, your social feed).

Hours and ticket prices could change. It’s always a good idea to check their website first. 

3D World Dubai Selfie Museum

📍 Warehouse 4, Street 26, Al Quoz Industrial Area 3, Dubai

Prepare to step into a realm where art and imagination collide. Dubai’s 3D World experience isn’t just a place to admire art; it’s a place to become it. With over 185 hand-painted trompe-l’oeil photo ops spread across nine fantastical zones, this 23,000-square-foot wonderland invites you to take pics that look like you’re getting tongued by a giant chameleon, walking a tightrope, battling Yoda or wandering Wonderland. These playful optical illusions will blow your mind, and the friendly staff are always on hand to help you nail the perfect shot.

Whether you’re flying solo or wrangling the whole family, this interactive playground promises unforgettable memories and enough Instagram gold to keep your followers entertained for weeks.

Opening hours: 

• Daily from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Last entry: 7 p.m.

Ticket prices: 

• Visitors 3 and older: AED 89

• Children 2 and under: Free

Al Shindagha Museum

📍 Al Shindagha Heritage District, Dubai

Step into the heart of Dubai’s history at the Al Shindagha Museum, a sprawling outdoor museum located along the picturesque Dubai Creek. This cultural gem takes you on a journey through the city’s transformation from a humble fishing village to a global metropolis. Wander through beautifully restored 19th century homes and themed pavilions that bring Emirati traditions to life. Highlights include the Perfume House, where you can craft your own scent, and the House of Poetry, which celebrates the art of Emirati storytelling.

Best months to visit: November through April, when cooler weather makes exploring the heritage district more enjoyable.

Opening hours: 

• Daily: 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Last entry: 7 p.m.

Ticket prices: 

• Adults (25 and above): AED 35

• Youth (5 to 24): AED 20

• Children 4 and under: Free

Arte Museum Dubai

📍 Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai

Step into the Arte Museum Dubai, where cutting-edge digital art transforms the beauty of nature into an immersive, multi-sensory experience. Spread across 30,000 square feet (2,800 square meters) and 14 immersive zones, this museum combines captivating visuals, soundscapes by composer Young-Gyu Jang, and even unique scents tailored to each exhibit. Highlights include breathtaking media art installations and a serene break at the Arte Tea Bar, where you can sip on exquisite drinks while marveling at the artistry around you.

Whether you’re an art connoisseur or just looking for an unforgettable adventure, the Arte Museum promises a feast for the senses.

Opening hours: 

• Monday to Thursday: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

• Friday to Sunday: 10 a.m. to midnight

Ticket prices: 

• Visitors 5 and older: AED 129

• Children 4 and under: Free

Coffee Museum

📍 Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Dubai

For coffee lovers and history buffs alike, the Coffee Museum offers a deep dive into the Arab world’s enduring love affair with coffee. Nestled in the charming Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, this quaint museum explores the journey of coffee through time, from its discovery in Ethiopia to its integral role in Middle Eastern culture.

Learn about the legend of Kaldi, a goat herder who noticed his charges acting energizing after chomping on some berries, the transformation of coffee during the black gold era, and the fascinating rituals surrounding Arabic coffee. The museum’s two floors are packed with artifacts, brewing methods and stories that capture the essence of this beloved beverage.

Opening hours: 

• Saturday to Thursday: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Friday: Closed

Ticket prices:

• Free

Dubai Museum

📍 Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai, Dubai

Note: As of this writing, the museum is closed for renovations, set to reopen in 2025. 

It’s hard to imagine something this old standing in the heart of this glittering modern metropolis. Yet the Al Fahidi Fort, which houses the museum, is Dubai’s oldest surviving structure, built in 1787.

The Dubai Museum brings the city’s past to life with immersive dioramas, traditional Bedouin tents and a model dhow, a wooden sailing vessel, that offers a glimpse into maritime trade. Stroll through a vibrant souk, marvel at ancient artifacts like pottery and weapons, and soak in the architectural beauty of coral stone walls and watchtowers.

Don’t miss the serene central courtyard, where traditional summer houses made of palm fronds provide a perfect spot to pause and reflect on Dubai’s rich heritage.

With its life-sized exhibits and captivating stories, this museum offers a window into the vibrant history of the Emirati people.

Opening hours: 

• Daily from 8:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m.

Ticket prices: 

• Visitors 15 and older: AED 3

• Children 14 and under: AED 1

Madame Tussauds Dubai

📍 Bluewaters Island, Dubai

Lights, camera, wax! At Madame Tussauds Dubai, you can rub elbows with lifelike figures of your favorite celebrities, from Hollywood legends and Bollywood icons to music megastars and sports heroes. Wander through seven themed zones, snapping selfies with stars like Justin Bieber, Taylor Swift, Harry Styles, Marilyn Monroe, and Lionel Messi as well as political figures like Queen Elizabeth II. Whether you’re walking the red carpet or posing with your role models, every room feels like a glamorous adventure.

Perfect for fans of all ages, this wax wonderland blends glitz, fun and a touch of star power to brighten your day.

Opening hours: 

• Sunday to Thursday: 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.

• Friday and Saturday: 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Ticket prices: 

• AED 145 per person 

• Family tickets for two adults and two children: AED 424

Museum of Candy

📍 City Walk, Dubai

Step into a sugar-coated wonderland at the Museum of Candy, where your sweetest dreams come to life. With over 15 candy-themed zones like Sweetopia, Gummy Bear Pool and the Louvre of Lollies, this interactive experience is a feast for the eyes. Compete in cotton candy challenges, indulge in milkshakes, and collect enough candy memories to last a lifetime.

Perfect for kids and kids at heart, this colorful haven promises 60 to 90 minutes of whimsical fun and endless photo ops. Sweet!

Opening hours: 

• Monday to Thursday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

• Friday to Sunday: 10 a.m. to midnight

Ticket prices: 

• Visitors 12 and over: AED 109

• Children 11 and under: AED 89

• Children 2 and under: Free

Museum of Illusions Dubai

📍 Al Seef, Dubai Creek, Dubai

Prepare to have your mind blown at the Museum of Illusions, a world where nothing is quite as it seems. From the disorienting Vortex Tunnel, where gravity takes a holiday, to the mesmerizing Infinity Room, this museum offers interactive experiences that challenge your perception. Strike quirky poses in the Tilted Room, or take unforgettable group shots in the Ames Room, where sizes shift based on your position.

With exhibits designed to entertain, amuse and make you question reality, the Museum of Illusions is a must-visit for all ages.

Opening hours:

• Sunday to Wednesday: 10 a.m. to 10 p.m.

• Thursday to Saturday: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Ticket prices:

• Adults (16 to 59): AED 80

• Children (5 to 15): AED 60

• Children 4 and under: Free

• Seniors (60 and over): AED 70

• Students: AED 70

• Family Package (2 adults and 2 children): AED 225

• Family & Friends Package (5 tickets for adults or children): AED 320

Museum of the Future

📍 Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre 2, Dubai

Get ready to step into the year 2071 at the Dubai Museum of the Future, an architectural marvel and a playground for innovation. This iconic steel and glass structure, adorned with Arabic calligraphy, offers a glimpse into the future of humanity. Explore exhibits on cutting-edge advancements in biodiversity, renewable energy, space exploration and more. Each floor immerses you in a visionary world where artificial intelligence and augmented reality redefine what’s possible.

Don’t miss the interactive displays that spark curiosity and challenge you to imagine a better tomorrow. The Museum of the Future is an invitation to dream big.

Best months to visit: April, May, September and October, for fewer crowds and a more immersive experience.

Opening hours: 

• Daily: 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

• Last entry: 7:30 p.m.

Ticket prices: 

• Visitors 4 and older: AED 149

• Children 3 and under: Free

Saruq Al-Hadid Archaeological Museum

📍 Shindagha Heritage District, Dubai

Journey back to the Iron Age at the Saruq Al-Hadid Archaeological Museum, where over 12,000 artifacts paint a vivid picture of Dubai’s ancient history. Housed in a beautifully restored building that once belonged to Sheikh Juma bin Maktoum, this museum reveals the secrets of a trading and metallurgy hub from centuries ago. Explore intricate jewelry, tools, ceramics and even the golden ring that inspired the Dubai Expo 2020 logo.

With interactive displays and engaging audiovisuals, this museum is a treasure trove for history lovers and curious minds alike.

Opening hours: 

• Sunday to Wednesday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.

• Thursday and Saturday: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Ticket prices: 

• Visitors 13 to 59: AED 20

• Children 7 to 12: AED 10

• Children 6 and under: Free

• Seniors 60 and over: Free

Dubai Museums: Where History and Imagination Meet

Dubai’s museums are vibrant gateways into the city’s rich past, dazzling present and visionary future. Whether you’re wandering the candy-coated realms of the Museum of Candy, marveling at Iron Age treasures in Saruq Al Hadid, or stepping into tomorrow at the Museum of the Future, each destination offers an experience as diverse as Dubai itself.

From art enthusiasts and history buffs to families seeking fun, there’s a museum to ignite every traveler’s imagination. So why settle for the ordinary? Add a dash of wonder to your Dubai itinerary and let these incredible museums turn your trip into an unforgettable story — and provide the most epic selfies ever. –Meenakshi Nair

Best Things to Do in Dubai With Kids

Here are Dubai’s top family activities. Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden and IMG Worlds of Adventure for an unforgettable day. And, surprise: One’s actually indoors!

The Spider-Man Doc Ock’s Revenge ride at IMG Worlds of Adventure

Dubai, known for its towering skyscrapers and luxury shopping, is also a paradise for families. A variety of over-the-top activities in Dubai cater to children and provide unforgettable experiences. 

Whether it’s exploring lush gardens or embarking on thrilling adventures, Dubai has something for every family. From the magnificent flower arrangements at the Dubai Miracle Garden to the adrenaline-pumping rides and superheroes at IMG Worlds of Adventure, the city ensures endless fun and excitement for kids and adults alike. 

Note: In most parts of the world, you’d expect an amusement park to be an outdoor attraction. But this is Dubai, where the average temperature soars to around 97°F (36°C). That’s why IMG Worlds of Adventure is indoors (and yes, air-conditioned!), ensuring a comfortable way to beat the heat.

The garden, by necessity, is outdoors, which is why I recommend starting your day there.

Morning: Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Miracle Garden is a floral wonderland in the heart of the desert. Opened on Valentine’s Day in 2013, the Dubai Miracle Garden is a marvel of modern horticulture, renowned for its record-breaking achievements and sustainable practices. As the world’s largest flower garden, it spans over 775,000 square feet (72,000 square meters) and showcases more than 150 million flowers arranged in vibrant and imaginative displays. 

In 2023, the garden further solidified its place in the record books with the largest vertical garden, reflecting its innovative use of space and greenery. 

Beyond its breathtaking displays, Dubai Miracle Garden is a leader in sustainable gardening. The garden employs a state-of-the-art drip irrigation system that recycles wastewater, ensuring efficient water use essential for maintaining its lush landscapes in Dubai’s arid climate. 

Organic fertilizers are used to nourish the plants, reducing the reliance on chemical-based alternatives and promoting eco-friendly gardening practices. 

Additionally, solar panels power various installations within the garden, minimizing the carbon footprint and harnessing renewable energy sources.

The garden also engages the community through educational programs and workshops, raising awareness about sustainability and environmental conservation. 

Why it’s a great spot for families: Dubai Miracle Garden offers a magical experience for families. The vibrant colors and creative designs captivate children’s imaginations, while parents can appreciate the artistry and effort behind each display. With themed areas, interactive spots and plenty of photo opportunities, it’s a destination that delights all ages.

Must-See Attractions at Dubai Miracle Garden

Heart Passage

Heart Passage at Dubai Miracle Garden is a romantic and enchanting floral tunnel formed by a series of heart arches. Adorned with vibrant flowers, this passage creates a picturesque walkway perfect for family photos. Walking through Heart Passage feels like stepping into a fairy tale, making it a favorite spot for visitors of all ages.

Airbus A380 Floral Display

One of the garden’s most iconic features is the life-size replica of an Emirates Airbus A380, which holds the Guinness World Record for the largest floral installation. This colossal structure is adorned with 500,000 fresh flowers and plants, covering 10% of the garden’s total area. 

The intricate design and sheer size of the display leave visitors in awe. Children are fascinated by seeing an airplane made of flowers, and it provides a unique and memorable photo opportunity for families. 

Disney Avenue

Disney Avenue at Dubai Miracle Garden brings beloved Mouse House characters to life through vibrant floral sculptures, including Mickey, Minnie, Donald and Daisy Duck, Goofy, Pluto, and Huey, Dewey and Louie. The colorful displays and familiar characters create a whimsical atmosphere that kids will adore. 

One of these has been dubbed the tallest topiary sculpture in the world: the 59-foot (18-meter) tall depiction of Mickey Mouse, which earned a Guinness World Record in 2018. 

Families can take delightful photos with the floral versions of their favorite Disney characters, making it a magical experience that adds to the garden’s charm and appeal.

Floral Castles

The Floral Castles are majestic structures adorned with a stunning array of flowers, creating a fairy tale ambiance. These towering structures, covered in blooms of various colors, are a favorite among visitors. Children can let their imaginations run wild as they explore the enchanting flower fortresses. The Floral Castles provide a picturesque setting for family photos and offer a sense of wonder and delight.

Butterfly Garden

Adjacent to Dubai Miracle Garden, the Butterfly Garden is home to over 15,000 butterflies from around the world. This enclosed garden offers an interactive and educational experience, where children can learn about different butterfly species and observe them in their natural habitat. The Butterfly Garden’s lush environment and vibrant butterflies create a captivating and serene atmosphere. It’s a nice complement to the floral displays of Dubai Miracle Garden, providing families with a closer connection to nature and a memorable visit.

Practical Information

Tickets: Tickets for Dubai Miracle Garden can be purchased both online and at the gate. For the best experience and to avoid long queues, it’s recommended to buy Dubai Miracle Garden tickets in advance online. Prices vary, with discounts often available for children, seniors and families. Additionally, combo tickets that include entry to the Butterfly Garden are available for a complete experience.

Opening hours and best months to visit: Dubai Miracle Garden is open from November to April, aligning with Dubai’s cooler months. The garden typically opens from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. on weekdays, and until 11 p.m. on weekends. Early mornings and weekdays are the best times to visit to avoid crowds and enjoy the displays at a leisurely pace.

Afternoon: Thrills at IMG Worlds of Adventure

After a delightful morning at Dubai Miracle Garden, head to IMG Worlds of Adventure for an afternoon of excitement. This indoor theme park is one of the largest in the world, covering an area of 1.5 million square feet (about 140,000 square meters).

Why it’s a great spot for families: IMG Worlds of Adventure offers a combination of beloved characters, heart-pounding rides and immersive experiences for all age groups. From Marvel superheroes to Cartoon Network characters, the park brings fantasy worlds to life. With its climate-controlled environment, it’s an ideal place to escape the heat and enjoy hours of fun.

Must-See Attractions at IMG Worlds

Marvel Zone: Superhero-Themed Rides and Shows

The Marvel Zone at IMG Worlds of Adventure is a playground for fanboys and girls. This section of the park features thrilling rides and attractions based on popular Marvel characters such as Spider-Man, Iron Man, Thor and the Hulk. Highlights include the Hulk Epsilon Base 3D, a multisensory ride that takes guests on an epic adventure with the green superhero, and Avengers: Battle of Ultron, an immersive experience where fans join Earth’s Mightiest Heroes in a high-stakes showdown.

Additionally, the zone offers more interactive experiences and live shows, allowing families to meet their favorite heroes and enjoy action-packed entertainment. 

Cartoon Network Zone: Kid-Friendly Attractions and Interactive Experiences

The Cartoon Network Zone brings beloved cartoon characters to life, providing a playful and engaging environment for children. Attractions include rides themed around shows like The Powerpuff Girls, Ben 10 and Adventure Time. The Ben 10 5D Hero Time ride offers an immersive experience with special effects and a thrilling storyline. 

Kids can also enjoy interactive play areas, meet-and-greets with their favorite characters and live shows. This zone’s focus on fun and creativity ensures a delightful visit for young visitors, making it a fave spot within IMG Worlds of Adventure.

Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure: Thrilling Rides and Prehistoric Encounters

Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure transports visitors back in time to encounter life-sized animatronic dinosaurs and exhilarating rides like the Velociraptor roller coaster. The Forbidden Territory ride allows families to explore a dinosaur-filled jungle in specially designed vehicles. 

Interactive experiences and educational exhibits provide insights into the world of dinosaurs, making it both fun and informative. The combination of thrills and learning opportunities makes Lost Valley a captivating zone for families visiting IMG Worlds of Adventure.

IMG Boulevard: Shops, Restaurants and Live Entertainment

IMG Boulevard serves as the central hub of IMG Worlds of Adventure, offering a variety of shops, restaurants and entertainment options. Visitors can have meals at themed eateries, shop for souvenirs and branded merch, and watch live performances. 

The Haunted Hotel isn’t a hotel you can actually stay in — thankfully, for the faint of heart — but rather an immersive walk-through attraction designed to give you chills. As you venture through the dimly lit corridors, you’ll encounter eerie rooms and unexpected scares around every corner. The setting mimics the atmosphere of an abandoned, decrepit hotel, complete with creepy characters and spine-tingling surprises. Each room has its own horror theme, keeping the suspense alive as you never know what might be lurking in the shadows. 

IMG Boulevard’s diverse offerings make it a perfect place to relax and recharge between adventures, enhancing the overall experience of visiting the theme park.

Practical Information

Tickets: Tickets for IMG Worlds of Adventure can be bought online or at the entrance. To make the most of your visit and avoid waiting in line, it’s advisable to purchase IMG World tickets in advance online. Ticket prices vary, with options for single-day entry, fast track access and annual passes. Discounts are often available for children, seniors and groups.

Opening hours and best times to visit: IMG Worlds of Adventure is open year-round, with daily operating hours typically from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The park is busiest on weekends and holidays, so visiting on weekdays or during off-peak hours can provide a more relaxed experience. Arriving early can help you enjoy the most popular attractions without long waits.

The Perfect Day: Dubai’s Top Family Attractions

Dubai is a city that offers an endless array of activities for families, ensuring a memorable vacation for all. From the enchanting blooms of Dubai Miracle Garden to the thrilling escapades at IMG Worlds of Adventure, there’s something to delight every member of the family. By exploring these two top attractions, you’ll experience the versatility and magic that make Dubai a premier family-friendly destination. Whether you’re wandering through flower-covered pathways or meeting your favorite superheroes, Dubai promises an unforgettable journey filled with joy and wonder. –Karan Arora

10 Over-the-Top Attractions in Dubai: From an Indoor Ski Resort to Dolphin Shows

Dubai is a city packed full of amazing destinations. Here are the must-see spectacles to add to your Dubai itinerary, including Mall of the Emirates, the Museum of the Future, Dubai Global Village and Dubai Miracle Garden. 

There’s so much to see and do in the megacity of Dubai in the UAE. We’ve whittled down the list to the top 10 picks to add to your Dubai trip.

In what seems like the blink of an eye, Dubai has grown into what could be considered the entertainment capital of the world — a treasure trove teeming with hundreds of attractions that draw millions of visitors from around the world. What more would you expect of a megacity built in the middle of a desert?

With its ultra-modern architecture, magnificent skyline and exotic lifestyle, Dubai is synonymous with grandeur and luxury. Almost every attraction in the UAE metropolis is built with the utmost precision and dedication, captivating the world’s attention.

With such a long list, finding the best of Dubai can be challenging. So, here’s my list of the top 10 destinations in Dubai, complete with a fun fact about each.

1. Mall of the Emirates

The Mall of Emirates is the second-largest shopping mall in Dubai and was established in the year 2005. Equipped with almost everything you can possibly imagine, the mall is one of the top places to visit in Dubai. Several cafés, restaurants, theaters and retail outlets sell hundreds of high-end brands. But the main attraction of the Mall of Emirates is Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort!

Fun fact: Ski Dubai includes the world’s first indoor black (expert) run, which is 400 meters (a quarter of a mile) long and has a gradient of 60 degrees.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Monday to Thursday)
10 a.m. to 12 a.m. (Friday to Sunday)

Sheikh Zayed Road

2. IMG Worlds of Adventure

Get ready for a day filled with adventure at IMG Worlds of Adventure, Dubai’s ultimate indoor theme park. This massive wonderland is divided into zones, including the Lost Valley, a prehistoric land where dinosaurs roam; Cartoon Network Zone, where you could meet Ben 10 and the Powerpuff Girls; and Marvel, with thrilling rides and attractions that will leave you feeling like a superhero. Oh, and there’s even a haunted hotel, if you dare!

Fun fact: The park’s Velociraptor roller coaster is one of the fastest in the world, with a top speed of 62 miles per hour (100 kilometers per hour).

Hours: 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Sunday to Friday)
12 p.m. to 11 p.m. (Saturday)

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road

3. Museum of the Future

What will the world be like in 2071? That’s what this forward-looking museum tries to predict. Before you even go in, admire the torus-shaped architectural wonder created by Killa Design. Then go on an immersive journey into the future and learn more about how astronauts survive in space and how you can help reduce the effects of global warming.

Fun fact: The façade is made of stainless steel plates that feature Arabic calligraphy quotes from Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Near Emirates Towers Metro Station
Sheikh Zayed Road

4. Dubai Dolphinarium

Home to the majestic Black Sea bottlenose dolphins, the Dubai Dolphinarium is one of the coolest places to visit in Dubai with kids. Watch the fur seals and dolphins join together in a fun performance, and under the supervision of a trained professional, you also get to interact, play, feed and swim with these delightful sea creatures.

Fun fact: The Dolphinarium has a rare albino bottlenose dolphin named Kekaimalu, which means “From the Peaceful Ocean” in Hawaiian.

Hours:  9 a.m. to 8 p.m (Closed on Tuesdays)

Creek Park Gate 1
Umm Hurair Road

5. Dubai Global Village

Travel the world — without ever leaving Dubai. At the Dubai Global Village, you can take a stroll through the African pavilion, where you’ll be transported to the Serengeti and witness some exotic wildlife. Or visit the European pavilion to be immersed in a world of art and history. The complex also hosts incredible shows, including acrobatics, dance performances and concerts. And to get your shopping fix, there are over 3,500 outlets selling everything from local handicrafts to international brands.

Fun fact: The park’s largest attraction is a replica of the Taj Mahal, which stands 52 feet (16 meters) tall and weighs 3,000 tons.

Hours: 4 p.m. to 12 a.m. (Sunday to Wednesday, with Tuesdays for women and families only)
4 p.m. to 1 a.m. (Thursday to Saturday)

Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road

6. Dubai Miracle Garden

Get lost in the world of a fairy tale, where everything is covered in beautiful flowers. Dubai Miracle Garden is the biggest natural flower garden in the world, spreading over 775,000 square feet (72,000 square meters) and featuring 150 million flowers and plants. It’s an absolute paradise for those seeking to connect with nature — and for those who have always wanted to visit a Smurf village!

Fun fact: The flower arrangements change every season, and it takes over 200 people to plant and maintain the flowers throughout the year.

Hours: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Monday to Friday)
9 a.m. to 11 p.m. (Saturday and Sunday)

Al Barsha South 3

7. Ain Dubai

Modeled after and inspired by the famous London Eye, Ain Dubai is the world’s tallest observation wheel, standing at a staggering height of 850 feet (260 meters). Marvel at the breathtaking views of Dubai as the capsule reaches the city’s highest point. Catch a glimpse of other places to visit in Dubai, including the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Islands and more.

Fun fact: The observation wheel features 48 capsules that can each hold up to 40 people, offering a total capacity of 1,920 passengers at any given time.

(Note: At the time of publication, Ain Dubai was temporarily closed. Check to see if it has reopened yet.) 

Hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Tuesday and Wednesday)
12 p.m. to 9 p.m. (Thursday to Saturday)

Bluewaters Island

8. Bollywood Parks Dubai

Have you always dreamed of starring in a Bollywood musical? Well, now’s your chance! Bollywood Parks Dubai brings you the first amusement park dedicated exclusively to Indian films. As part of Dubai Parks and Resorts, you can visit various remakes of famous Bollywood movie sets like Lagaan, Sholay and Dabangg and take in a 4D movie experience or dance workshops while admiring the beautiful Indian décor.

Fun fact: The hot new ride is Ra.One – Unleashed, a virtual reality ride based on a popular superhero movie. Riders feel wind and water as they battle robots and villains alongside the film’s hero, G.One.

Hours: 1 p.m. to 10 p.m. (Sunday to Thursday)

1 p.m. to 11 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)

Sheikh Zayed Road

9. Motiongate

Bollywood isn’t the only movie industry to inspire a theme park in Dubai; Hollywood has cast its spell as well at Motiongate. Also located within Dubai Park and Resorts, you can enjoy adrenaline-pumping rides and can meet Hollywood characters wandering around the park in zones affiliated with various production companies, including Columbia, Dreamworks and Lionsgate. Oh, and strangely enough, there’s a Smurf village here, too.

My favorite rides: the Green Hornet: High-Speed Chase and the Madagascar Mad Pursuit.

Fun fact: The park’s Zombieland Blast-off ride is the tallest freefall tower in the world, standing at 190 feet (58 meters) tall.

Hours: 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Sunday to Thursday)
11 a.m. to 9 p.m. (Friday and Saturday)

Sheikh Zayed Road

10. Dubai Opera

Dubai is also home to high culture — and in my opinion, no trip here is complete without a visit to the Dubai Opera. Once again, it’s a marvel of design. Despite its name, the 2,000-seat theater literally transforms itself to play host to a wide variety of stunning world-class entertainment, including orchestras, musicals, ballets and lectures. 

Fun fact: The opera house’s iconic design was inspired by the traditional sailing vessels of the Arabian Gulf known as dhows. The building’s unique shape also transforms into a flat floor space for events other than operas.

Hours: 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard

Everything in Dubai is over-the-top. Bigger is better — and the attractions are no different.

In a city of superlatives, these are what I think are the best of the best. Have you noticed how everything is described as the world’s biggest such-and-such? And so many of these attractions are held indoors, away from the intense desert heat. Dubai leaves no chance for disappointment, and every visit to this gleaming metropolis is worthwhile. –Nishita Khanwani