The United Arab Emirates is a federation that has redefined the very concept of a holiday destination. It is a place where futuristic skylines rise from the ancient desert, and where tradition and modernity exist in a stunning, dynamic balance. From the global hub of Dubai to the cultural heart of Abu Dhabi, the UAE offers an unparalleled variety of experiences.
Many visitors come for one or two famous landmarks, but to truly have fun in the UAE is to explore its depth. You can spend one day soaring above the clouds in the world’s tallest building and the next, navigating a timeless souk.
This is a guide to some of the absolute best ways to have fun, capturing the spirit of luxury, adventure, and culture that defines this unique part of the world.
What Are the Best Ways to Have Fun in the UAE?
1. Conquer the Desert
You cannot claim to have visited the UAE without experiencing the magic of its desert. A desert safari is a non-negotiable rite of passage. The experience is a perfectly curated blend of high-octane thrills and serene cultural immersion.
The adventure typically begins in the afternoon, with a thrilling dune-bashing session. A skilled driver takes a 4×4 vehicle across the vast, golden dunes, creating an experience that feels like a natural rollercoaster.
After the adrenaline rush, the pace slows. You can try camel riding as the sun begins to set, casting an incredible orange and purple glow over the endless sand sea. The evening concludes at a traditional-style Bedouin camp.
Here, you are treated to a barbecue dinner under the stars, often accompanied by live cultural entertainment. It is an unforgettable experience that connects you directly to the landscape that started it all.
2. Ascend to the Top of the World
In Dubai, the directive is simple: look up. The Burj Khalifa is not just the world’s tallest building; it is a symbol of human ambition. A trip here is a masterclass in modern engineering and a truly awe-inspiring experience.
The journey begins in one of the world’s fastest elevators, which transports you to the observation decks on floors 124, 125, and even the exclusive “At The Top Sky” lounge on floor 148.
From this vantage point, the sprawling, futuristic city of Dubai looks like a miniature model. You can see the intricate design of the Palm Jumeirah, the World Islands, and the boats cruising along the Dubai Creek.
The best time to go is just before sunset. This allows you to witness the city in daylight, watch the sun dip into the Arabian Gulf, and then see millions of lights flicker on, transforming the view into a dazzling sea of electricity.
3. Enjoy Premier Entertainment at Home
After long days of exploring deserts, malls, and mosques, many residents and visitors prefer to unwind in the comfort and privacy of their homes or hotel rooms.
The demand for high-quality, private digital entertainment has grown significantly. For those seeking varied and sophisticated online platforms, finding quality casino games for Emiratis has become a popular way to relax.
These online casinos are sought after for their privacy, faster payouts, better bonuses, their diverse library of international games, and the convenience of accessing a premium experience from home. This form of entertainment provides a modern way to have fun that aligns with the UAE’s high-tech, luxury-oriented lifestyle.
4. Immerse Yourself in Cultural Majesty
While Dubai races into the future, the capital, Abu Dhabi, offers a profound sense of cultural grace, best exemplified by the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This is one of the most breathtakingly beautiful buildings in the world. It is an architectural marvel of white marble, intricate floral designs inlaid with semi-precious stones, and reflective pools that mirror its grandeur.
Visiting the mosque is a serene and respectful experience. It can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers and is designed to be a place of cultural exchange.
As you walk (shoeless) across the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet and gaze up at the massive, crystal-encrusted chandeliers, you cannot help but feel a sense of peace.
5. Experience World-Class Thrills
For those who crave speed and excitement, Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island is a veritable playground. This man-made island is home to a cluster of world-class theme parks, but the crown jewel for thrill-seekers is Ferrari World Abu Dhabi.
Instantly recognizable by its massive, iconic red roof, this park is a shrine to the legendary Italian car brand. It is home to the Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest rollercoaster.
This ride accelerates to 240 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, simulating the G-force of a Formula One driver. Beyond this main attraction, the park features state-of-the-art racing simulators, family-friendly rides that take you on a journey through a miniature Italy, and live shows, making it a full day of high-speed fun.
6. Indulge in Unmatched Retail Luxury
In the UAE, shopping is not just an errand, it is a spectacular form of entertainment. Malls like The Dubai Mall are destinations in their own right. This single location is one of the world’s largest, and it offers far more than just luxury stores. It is a fully contained entertainment complex.
While you browse high-end fashion, you can also take a break to visit the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, a massive tank that holds 10 million litres of water and is home to thousands of aquatic animals. You can walk through the tunnel and see sharks and rays swimming overhead.
Afterwards, you can go ice skating at the Olympic-sized ice rink or watch the famous Dubai Fountain show just outside, set against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa.
7. Explore the Past in Old Dubai
To understand the soul of Dubai, you must visit its origins. A trip to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (often called Old Dubai) feels like stepping back in time. This beautifully preserved area features traditional buildings with wind towers, narrow alleyways, and quiet courtyards.
From here, you can walk to the bustling Gold Souk and Spice Souk. The Gold Souk is a dazzling labyrinth of shops with window displays overflowing with intricate gold jewellery. The nearby Spice Souk is an assault on the senses, with the rich aromas of saffron, frankincense, and exotic spices filling the air.
The best part is taking a traditional wooden boat, called an “abra,” across the Dubai Creek for just one dirham. It is the most authentic and enjoyable way to see the city’s old heart.
Conclusion
The United Arab Emirates is a country of superlatives. It offers the tallest, the fastest, the biggest, and the most luxurious. But it also offers the most serene, the most traditional, and the most thrilling.
A trip here is a journey through a dozen different worlds at once. Whether you are seeking adventure, culture, luxury, or high-tech entertainment, the UAE has perfected the art of having fun.
