view-dubai-canal-skyline

Things to Do in City Walk Dubai During Your Vacation

City Walk Dubai is one of the Emirate's newest and most exciting destinations. This city within a city features wide boulevards and scenic sidewalk cafes that would rival the likes of New York or Paris. There is also an enclosed mall with real, living trees and piped-in birdsong. The area is a peaceful oasis within Dubai's modern maze of soaring skyscrapers. The entire family will find a place to enjoy at City Walk Dubai, and it's especially a hotspot for dedicated shoppers. If you’re looking for things to do in City Walk Dubai during your trip, check out our list of the best local activities and attractions, including...

  • The Green Planet
  • Mattel Play! Town
  • Hub Zero
  • 3D Art
  • Luxury Shopping
  • Dining

Save on Dubai Creek Area Attraction Admission

Admission to a number of these top Dubai attractions and activities are included on the Go Dubai Card. Choose as you go from dozens of top attractions and save up to 55% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available passes, attractions & prices – Learn more.

The Green Planet

adorable-sloth-bear-bending-on-tree-grren-planet-dubai

The Green Planet

You don't have to go all the way to the Amazon to get a taste of a tropical rainforest. The Green Planet is a completely immersive, vertical tropical rainforest enclosed in its own four-story building. Open to the young and the old, the curious and the adventurous, The Green Planet is an educational and fun destination. You can explore and learn about each floor of the forest. Begin your visit with the base, the Flooded Forest on level one, featuring different types of marine and aquatic life. ext, the Forest Floor, is the humid, dark, and quiet area filled with plant diversity. The Midstory area of the forest follows on the third floor, with more lush greenery and space to soak up the sun that filters through the canopy layer. Finally, the Canopy level on the fourth floor showcases the roof of the rainforest, also a home to birds and other wildlife. As you make your way through each level and area of The Green Planet you'll learn about all the species of plants and animals that call it home, from butterflies and frogs, to tropical birds and insects. You will also get to witness firsthand the crucial role that the rainforest plays in our current and future environment, and how it should be protected and cared for. Getting In: The Green Planet Dubai tickets are included with the Go Dubai Card.

Mattel Play! Town

The family fun at City Walk Dubai continues at Mattel Play! Town. This action-packed 'edu-play' venue is designed for children from ages two to 10. Guests to Mattel Play! Town will be delighted with entertaining live shows, educational play experiences, and a ton of hands-on activities and crafts that prompt problem-solving skills and teamwork to induce children's creativity and social skills development. Your children's favorite characters will come alive as they meet Bob the Builder and help him in his mission to steady scaffolding and build a city. They will learn about health and safety precautions as they save the day with Fireman Sam. Or they can dress up for a dance performance with Angelina Ballerina at Camembert Academy. They can also delve into the world of Thomas The Tank Engine and Friends as they take part in the 4D experience. Or perhaps it's making crafts with Barney in his colorful create space that will tickle their fancy. No matter what their favorite character or experience is, there is always something to do at Mattel Play! Town. You can use your Go Dubai Card for entrance tickets into the attraction and many others like it all across the city. Getting In: Mattel Play! Town Dubai tickets are included with the Go Dubai Card.

Hub Zero

For older travelers, Hub Zero, the region's first immersive entertainment hub, will certainly strike their fancy. This is a collision of worlds, where the real meets the virtual to create the ideal gaming experience with a diverse range of games enhanced with crazy dimensions and cutting-edge special effects. Step into the future of gaming and technology at Hub Zero where you can immerse yourself in a number of interactive games, including a multi-level laser tag arena, 3D games and rides, shooting skill matches, climbing walls and even a race track to put your real life skills to the test. Most interestingly, Hub Zero is the only wireless virtual reality experience in the Emirate. For adults aged 13 and over your Go Dubai Card entitles you to unlimited access of the following games at Hub Zero: Gears of War Laser Siege, Hack Attack, Resident Evil Big Terror, Virtual Arena, Battlefield Armoured Assault, Asura’s Wrath, Hyper Drive, Double Agent, Plants vs. Zombies Backyard Brawl, Hero Zone Vertical Adventure, and Sports Academy featuring Pro Evolution Soccer. For children aged three to 12 they will have unlimited admission to the following: Plants vs. Zombies, Tiny Track Racers, and Double Agent. Getting In: Hub Zero Dubai tickets are included with the Go Dubai Card.

3D Art

If you're lucky enough to be visiting Dubai during the more temperate winter and spring months you can catch a glimpse of the incredible 3D art produced at venues around the city, including City Walk Dubai. Selected artists from around the world have been picked by the city to showcase their work in the urban living destination of City Walk Dubai, converting the space into an open-air canvas for the Emirate's 3D Art Festival. Many visitors are even able to watch the artists in action as they craft their masterpieces. A few United Arab Emirates-based organizations will also host free workshops and art talks throughout the festival. Getting In: Public entry to this activity is free, and any specific events may be separately ticketed.

Luxury Shopping

tourist-walks-through-one-largest

Luxury Shopping

Dubai is truly a shopper's paradise and City Walk Dubai is no exception. The development was designed on a multi-concept experience, with an extremely diverse selection of stores, boutiques, and malls to entice any buyer. From international high fashion, to jewelry designers, to fragrance emporiums, homeware stores, and souvenir outlets, whether you're shopping for yourself or for gifts to bring back home, City Walk Dubai is sure to have a place to suit whatever you desire. Using your Go Dubai Card throughout your trip will save your valuable pocket money so you can literally shop until you drop. Getting In: Public entry to the Dubai shopping malls is free.

Dining

buffet-on-yacht-dubai-service-attendant

Dining

Once you've worked up an appetite from the shopping and the gaming you might want to tuck into one of City Walk Dubai's many delicious restaurants or cafes. Featuring an international lineup, from Italian to American, to Arabic to French to Spanish cuisine you will feel like you're in the heart of a truly bustling city spoiled for choice. If it's not too hot, grab a seat at one of City Walk's outdoor tables lining the picturesque boulevard to enjoy your day as you watch the city go by. There are a number of different dining options available on the Go Dubai Card.

Remember to Save on City Walk Dubai Attraction Admission

There you have it – a few great recommendations for things in the City Walk Dubai area. Many of these fun attraction options and more are included on the Go Dubai Card, where you can save up to 55% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. We hope you consider adding a few of these great options to your Dubai vacation plans.

Lindsay Eagan
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

boat dubai
Blog

Best Boat Tours in Dubai

Mammals ventured out of the big drink many millions of years ago, and eventually, some of them became us. But our fascination with the oceans never really disappeared. Since early humans were able to use tools, we've been keen to throw ourselves back onto the waves and sail away. But what are we sailing away from? Our problems? Our past? Anyway, what about boats? Pretty cool, right? Let's talk about boats and why you should ride them. Firstly, fun. Boats are fun. Facts. Secondly, they let you see another side of a city - the waterside. So, if you're vacationing in Dubai, we hope you're pumped to read about the best boat tours available, because we're pumped to tell you about them! Including: Ain Dubai boat tour Black Pearl Sightseeing Cruise Sunset Dinner Cruise Dubai Marina Speed Boat Sightseeing Dubai Tour Yas Island Sightseeing Cruise and more! Ain Dubai boat tour Let's kick off our list with a delightful sunset tour of Dubai's opulent marina. After boarding a luxury yacht, you'll pass by the multi-million dollar high-rise flats at Bluewaters Island and the skyscrapers of Jumeirah Beach Residence, as well as the typically stunning views of the city's skyline. Then, get your cameras ready for the tour's crown jewel - Ain Dubai. The largest observation wheel on the planet dwarfs the London Eye at nearly twice its size. And, at 250m tall, you can imagine how great the views are from up there! With tours leaving at 6:30PM or 9PM, you can have your tour bathed in twilight, or immerse yourself in the midnight glow of Dubai's neon magnificence. The choice is yours. Image courtesy of Mana Photo/Shutterstock Black Pearl Sightseeing Cruise If you're bringing the little one along with you, then why not sail away with their favorite drunk pirate, Captain Jack Sparrow? Yes, now, all their pirating dreams - and maybe yours - can come true on this sightseeing cruise atop Sparrow's famous Black Pearl galleon. With the Captain as your guide, you'll travel through the stunning Ras al Khor (Dubai Creek Harbour) and on to Mohamed Bin Rashid where you'll pause to marvel at the views of the Burj Khalifa. Make sure to have your camera ready, because you'll want to take photos of the magnificent scenery you pass on your voyage. Oh, and maybe a few pics with the Captain himself, should he be able to stay on his two feet! Sunset Dinner Cruise of Dubai Marina How does a seaside dinner cruise at sunset sound? Good, yeah? If so, this will be one of your best boat tours in Dubai! Enjoy a mouth-watering dinner, live music and entertainment, and stunning views on this tour of Dubai Marina. Hop aboard, grab a drink, and sit down for a cruise like no other. Thanks to the floor-to-ceiling glass windows on the bottom deck, or the open-air of the top deck, you'll see the Marina, the tallest block of towers in the world, and the Cayan Tower with its impressive architectural twist. As well as skyscraping sights, you'll also take in views of the Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and its waterfront. And the dinner itself? Sublime, thanks to the generous buffet on board. Sample pasta dishes, fill your bowl with noodles, and top it all off with a decadent dessert of crumble or brownies. Delish. Speed Boat Sightseeing Dubai Tour If the thought of cruising across the waves fills your lungs with yawn matter, you'll want something a little faster. Well hold onto your hats, then, because you can also see Dubai's shoreline at a breakneck pace thanks to this speed boat sightseeing tour of the city! For 90 minutes, you'll be flung around the open ocean as you set your sights on the beautiful Dubai skyline. Speed past the Marina as your guide fills you in on the city's history and lines your brain with sweet, sweet knowledge. You'll even see luxury hotels, the royal sheik's palaces, and high-profile villas. Lovely. But don't worry, it's not all speed. You'll have the chance to slow down on occasion and put your photo clicking finger to work. Creek Sightseeing Cruise by Tour Dubai Or, if you really want to relax and see some parts of the city you'd otherwise miss, check out this architectural boat tour of Dubai Creek, Deira, and Bur Dubai. Boarding a traditional, handcrafted dhow boat, the slower pace gives you the chance to soak up Dubai's rich culture, while your commentary track fills you in on the ins and outs of each location. And, if you're a little parched from the warm weather, do not fear - you'll get a complimentary soft drink or water bottle when you board. They really thought of everything, didn't they? Marina Sightseeing Cruise Explore Dubai's Canal City and Marina with this picturesque hour-long cruise of the harbor! See the architectural marvel of Dubai up close on this fascinating boat tour of the shore. Take as many pics for your socials as possible, making your followers envious beyond your wildest dreams. And, sip on a refreshing complimentary drink as you sail. Not bad at all. Yas Island Sightseeing Cruise Venture beyond Dubai on a handcrafted boat as you explore the shores of Yas Island. You'll pass by recognizable landmarks from the United Arab Emirates, such as Al Zaina, Al Bandar, and Al Seef. You'll even get a closer look at the famous Yas Marina F1 Race Circuit. You might not be in a car, but you can pretend you're racing on the circuit yourself, if that floats your boat. Floats your boat? An unintentional pun, we assure you. Those are our picks for the best boat tours in Dubai! Looking for other memorable adventures to experience while in Dubai? Why not check out Go City? With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Dubai's best bits when and how you want. There's so much to do, see, and experience that no matter what you decide to do, you'll love your time in the city!
Dom Bewley
dubai food
Blog

Best Restaurants in Dubai

Sometimes, going on vacation can be daunting - especially when it comes to food. Local cuisine can make or break a holiday, so it's good to know your options. Thankfully, Dubai has a large number of amazing restaurants that cater to every cuisine imaginable, so you'll never feel like you're missing out. These are our picks for the very best restaurants you absolutely must visit in Dubai! Including: Coya BB Social Dining Long Teng 21 Grams Bagatelle and more! Coya If you're looking for some delightful bites influenced by Latin American cuisine, go check out Goya. This Peruvian restaurant, which also borrows generously from Spanish and far Eastern cuisine, is well known around Dubai as one of the best in town. Visitors can expect great food and great service, all wrapped up in a lively atmosphere that peaks in the evening. Just bear in mind that all that good comes at a cost, so make sure you're flush and check their menu prices before striding in all confident. If you've got the dough, and the menu's for you, Coya is easily one of the best restaurants in Dubai. BB Social Dining BB Social Dining feels like a joint teleported in from New York, thanks to its narrow-yet-tall three-floor structure. Step inside, glide up the staircase to your table, and sit down for some amazing fusion of Eastern and Middle-Eastern cuisine. You'll find crispy sprouts sitting right by truffle egg and kung fu wings on the menu, and you can pair all these weird yet wonderful combinations with a selection of delightful drinks, should you be parched. Long Teng Hidden in plain sight among the Business Bay office towers, you'll find this wonderfully aquatic Chinese restaurant. Step inside Long Teng, and you'll feel like you've journeyed beneath the waves, thanks to its large aquarium of sea-living legends. Approach the aquarium, pick your dish, and then sit down to your delicious treat. The menu is packed full of authentic Chinese dishes, so if seafood isn't your jam, or picking your meal seems a little morbid, you can select one of the already deceased options and enjoy that instead. They have vegetarian options too, if you want to give the murder a miss. 21 Grams Balkan cuisine doesn't get a lot of love across the globe, which is a shame. A fusion of many different cuisines from nearby, its mix of meats, seafood, and baked delights doesn't get its due. But that's not the case in Dubai, thanks to 21 Grams. Enter the generous dining area and chow down on some delightful family recipes like zucchini fritters, wagyu beef stuffed patties, and a daily rotation of fresh fish. Grand. Bagatelle Look for late-night French delights? Look no further than Bagatelle, which many consider one of Dubai's best evening hangouts. Though you can book earlier, head there when the sun goes down to make the most of your Bagatelle experience. With a menu teeming with authentic French cuisine, including uniquely French oddities like snails and frogs legs, as well as a burgeoning drinks menu and live music throughout the night, it could easily be your one-stop shop for a perfect night out. Definitely one of the best restaurants in Dubai if you're looking for a lively time. Masti If you're in the market for a little Indian, head to Masti, which does the best South Asian dishes anywhere in Dubai. With meals designed by award-winning chef Prashant Chipkar, expect nothing but the best Indian cuisine, with small plates sure to tickle your spicy side. But this isn't your traditional affair, with each Indian mainstay given a very modern twist. Just when you thought you knew what to expect from a curry, Masti offers a delicious rug pull that will have you questioning reality itself. Or, well, maybe not reality. But your expectations of an Indian menu? Sure. Even the decor is delightful, thanks to the blue upholstery and giant hanging light bulbs. Dine like royalty while feeling like royalty. That's the name of the game at Masti. Armani/Ristorante For Italian cuisine lovers, look no further than the classy, upmarket vibes on offer at Armani/Ristorante. Don't let the minimalist decor fool you - the menu is far from basic. With wonderful Dubai twists on classic Italian dishes, and each selection paired with a recommended wine, you'll have your pick from the likes of braised lamb ravioli, foie gras, blue lobster, and many more. If your bank account can handle it, we'd recommend the Tajima wagyu strip loin with black truffle mashed potato. Divine. Al Beiruti Al Beiruti caters to all your Middle-Eastern culinary desires, so if you want some authentic local food, you know where to go. Thanks to the all-day menu featuring breakfasts, mezze, grilled meats, and even a kids menu, you can enjoy Al Beiruti's delights from sun up to sun down. And, with the kitchen visible from your table, you can see the master chefs in action as they wrangle up your tasty treats. Expect plenty of hummus, shawarma, sausages, and Middle-Eastern takes on burgers, to name but a few. Bubbalicious And finally, no list of the best restaurants in Dubai would be complete without a shout-out to everyone's favorite between-meal; brunch. Does Dubai do brunch? Too right it does. So why not check out the city's best brunch spot at Bubbalicious? Located in the Marriott's Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina, you'll find this delightful all-you-can-eat brunch fest. And their offerings are startling, to say the least. Lobster, curry, steak, Asian dishes, roasted meats, and much more fill the aisles, and you can have as much as you want. Not a bad way to start your day, ay? Those are our picks for the best restaurants in Dubai! With all that fuel in you, you'll be ready for all the amazing experiences Dubai has to offer. Looking for ideas? Why not check out Go City? With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Dubai's best bits when and how you want. There's so much to do, see, and experience that no matter what you decide to do, you'll love your time in the city!
Dom Bewley

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.

Thick check Icon