Dubai

A Week in Dubai Itinerary - 5 to 7 Days in Dubai for a Fun Filled Vacation

By Lindsay Eagan

From the icy slopes of Ski Dubai to the thrills and spills of Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm, to the high fashion shops of Dubai Mall straight up to the soaring altitude of the Burj Khalifa, you can see and do it all in Dubai.

If you're traveling for the first time or making a return visit, we've pulled together a week in Dubai itinerary to help you get the most out of your trip. We've packed in a ton of exciting, family-friendly, and individual activities for you to choose from in your five to seven days in the Emirate. 

This itinerary includes many popular activities throughout most of Dubai, organized by neighborhood, including:

  • The Palm: Cruises, Kayak tours, Paddleboating, Windsurf Lessons,...
  • Sheikh Zayed Road: Big Bus Dubai, Mall of the Emirates, & Ski Dubai
  • Dubai Marina: Beaches, RIB Speedboat Tour, & Sunset Dinner Cruise
  • Downtown Dubai: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountains, Dubai Mall, KidZania, ,...
  • Dubai Parks & Resorts: IMG Worlds of Adventure, LEGOLAND Dubai, Motiongate...
  • Dubai Creek: Dhow Dinner Cruise, Glow in the Dark Mini Golf, ...
  • CityWalk: Green Planet, Hub Zero, Mattel Play! Town, ...

🗓️ >> Even if you're spending less than a week in Dubai and still want some ideas for your trip, check out our one day in Dubai stopover, two-day weekend in Dubai, or three days in Dubai itinerary.

Dubai skyline

The Palm itinerary attraction options: Dubai Palm Cruise Tour

Explore a completely man-made archipelago, the Palm Jumeirah, while aboard a one-hour cruise around the inner circle of the Palm. You’ll get unbeatable views of Dubai and the exclusive Palm Jumeirah from the water while your tour guide tells you all about the area’s unique history, ongoing projects, and vision for the island. It's truly an iconic architectural masterpiece.

Getting In: Dubai Palm Boat Tour tickets are included with the Go Dubai Card.

Aquaventure Waterpark

Next, head to Atlantis the Palm, where you'll get to experience the luxury of a world-class resort alongside the excitement and adventure you always dreamed of for your ideal vacation. Spend at least a few hours at Aquaventure Waterpark to get in some much-welcome cool fun (some people decide to stay here for an entire day).

It's the perfect destination for families, offering a wide variety of rides and slides that are sure to be a blast. After you've finished exploring the rides, head to the beach to kick back and relax. 

Getting In: Aqauventure Waterpark Dubai tickets are included with on all Go City Dubai passes.

Aquaventure Waterpark

Lost Chambers Dubai Aquarium

This distinctive aquarium offers a unique spin on the idea of an aquatic habitat. Lost Chambers re-imagines the lost world of Atlantis under the sea, and showcases this mythical city the way it might be - if you were to walk through the halls of a sunken palace. Explore ten themed chambers that highlight different sea creatures, ranging from the exotic to the quotidian.

See thousands of creatures from an up-close-and-personal perspective, including jellyfish, stingrays, sharks, and more. Be sure to also check out one of their hourly Myth Tours (included with your admission) that showcases the stories and legends behind this imaginative attraction. 

Getting In: Lost Chambers Dubai Aquarium tickets are included on all Dubai passes.

Watersports with SeaYou

Start your morning early with a sunrise paddle board lesson, where you'll learn the basic techniques of balance and safety before you head out for a paddle around the Palm and back. Or opt for a more intensive windsurfing lesson as you ride the waves. It's one of the most exciting ways to explore the waters of the Palm.

If you prefer, take on a more leisurely pace with a 2.5-hour-long guided kayak tour around the Palm. Don't forget the sunblock! Keep in mind that these attractions are closed during the hottest months of the year, so be sure to check in advance of your visit what will be open during your trip. 

Getting In: Paddle-boarding, windsurfing, and kayaking tours are each available on Go City Dubai passes.

SUP in Dubai

Sheikh Zayed Road itinerary attraction options:

Hop-on Hop-off Big Bus Dubai

You should spend at least one day in Dubai with a journey down Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai's main artery connecting almost every part of the city. Take a bus tour to fully appreciate the range of attractions and landmarks that populate this busy road.

A hop-on hop-off option is ideal for visitors to Dubai because it allows you the freedom to customize your trip based on your interests. Plus, there are three routes to choose from, so you'll get the maximum exposure to the city. Some of the sights you'll see include the iconic Burj Khalifa, Dubai Fountain, Spice Souk, CityWalk, Mall of the Emirates, and more. 

Getting In: Hop On Hop Off Big Bus Dubai tickets are included on all Go City Dubai passes.

Ski Dubai

Another delightful way to cool down in Dubai is by heading to a ski resort — seriously! Hit the slopes at the Middle East's largest indoor ski resort and the world's first indoor black diamond run at Ski Dubai. Fascinatingly, it's located adjacent to the Mall of the Emirates itself, so you'll feel like you've truly stepped into another world.

With five slopes of varying steepness for skiing or snowboarding, sled and toboggan runs, and an ice cave, Ski Dubai offers fun for the entire family. When you've finished your snowy activities, take some time to seek out the park's wild inhabitants: some Gentoo and King penguins that you'll see waddle around throughout the day. 

Getting In: Ski Dubai tickets are included with the Go Dubai Card.

Ski Dubai

Mall of the Emirates

This mega-mall features hundreds of shops, with high-end and affordable options, restaurants, a 4D cinema, and many other attractions. It's a great place to shop for souvenirs, plus pick up some exotic gifts for your friends and family (or for yourself, of course!). Take advantage of the wide variety of local and Western-influenced cuisine to choose the perfect place for lunch, and perhaps pop into a film. It's also right on the Big Bus line.

Getting In: Entry to the mall is free, however, most attractions at the Mall of the Emirates are separately priced.

Mall of the Emirates

Dubai Marina itinerary attraction options

Stroll the Beaches

Dubai Marina is one of Dubai's most beautiful residential and commercial areas, with gleaming skyscrapers, five-star hotels, public and private beaches, and an offering of global cuisines at your fingertips. Spend another day on your itinerary exploring this area of the city. Enjoy a walk down Jumeirah Beach Residence, stopping to savor any of the many restaurants and shops along the way. Breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf can be enjoyed from the public beach down JBR as you enjoy a traditional Arabic coffee or tea and ice cream. 

Getting In: It's free to walk along the public beaches in Dubai.

Dubai beach

Speedboat Sightseeing Tour

Hop aboard a speedboat for the ultimate in exciting tours! Jaunt around the waters surrounding the Palm, Atlantis, Burj Al Arab, and Lagoon, and enjoy live commentary of these top Dubai Marina sites. It's a great way to get out on the water and have fun (and cool off from the desert heat), all while learning about the amazing cultural heritage of Dubai. You'll emerge from this exhilarating 90-minute excursion feeling like an expert on the sights and sounds of Dubai Marina. 

Getting In: Dubai Speedboat Tour tickets are included with the Go Dubai Card.

Sunset Dinner Cruise

Fully relish in the evening with a two-hour upscale cruise as the sun sets on an Xclusive Yachts Dinner Cruise. Gaze at the glimmering lights of the Marina's buildings and landmarks as you partake in a five-star buffet, from the luxury Address Marina hotel. It's the ultimate in dining luxury, plus it offers a charming sightseeing opportunity. Experience what a luxe vacation in Dubai can truly be like on this cruise. 

Getting In: Dubai Sunset Dinner Cruise tickets are included on the Dubai Explorer pass only.

Downtown Dubai itinerary attraction options

Burj Khalifa - At The Top

Of course, we can't let you leave Dubai without seeing the most iconic building in the Middle East. As you journey up more than 140 floors up the world's tallest building for a panoramic view of the city from At The Top At the Burj Khalifa, don't forget your camera! You can enjoy the dynamic architecture of this global city and then take in the Dubai Fountain Show from a prime viewing position. 

Getting In: At The Top - Burj Khalifa tickets are included on all Dubai passes.

View from Burj Khalifa

SWITCH Restaurant

Once you've worked up an appetite from shopping, head to SWITCH Restaurant to try their special Camel edition menu. From burgers to camel spaghetti or camel milk drinks, you won't want to miss this Arabian Gulf delicacy. No trip to Dubai is complete without trying some camel.

Dubai Parks & Resorts itinerary attraction options

IMG Worlds of Adventure

You simply must visit IMG Worlds of Adventure during your week in Dubai. It's the world's largest indoor theme park with five amazing Adventure Zones to explore. You'll get to enjoy everything from imagined worlds by Cartoon Network™ and MARVEL to fascinating complexes exclusive to this park, including Valley – Dinosaur Adventure, IMG Boulevard®, and The Haunted Hotel. 

Getting In: IMG Worlds of Adventure tickets are included on all Dubai passes.

 

Motiongate Dubai

The Motiongate theme park blends three of Hollywood's most prolific studios: Dreamworks Animation, Columbia Pictures, and Lionsgate into a single, vast theme park. Go behind the scenes on a live-action shoot, embarking on a high-speed chase, Green Hornet style, or fighting a Ghostbusters battle. You'll get a taste of excitement and film production in the heart of the desert. Water rides, roller coasters, and interactive shows offer further outlets of entertainment. 

Getting In: Admission to Motiongate Dubai is available on all Go City Dubai passes.

LEGOLAND® Dubai

At LEGOLAND you can tour the LEGO Factory to learn how the iconic bricks are made before you hop on the LEGO Technic Twister or create and race your own LEGO car. Finally, make your way through the maze of a miniature LEGO city built with 20 million bricks to form some of the Middle East's most iconic landmarks. 

Getting In: Admission to LEGOLAND Dubai is available on all Dubai passes.

Legoland Dubai

Bollywood Park

Make like a Bollywood star at the Bollywood Park as you celebrate the splendor of India or take part in a Bollywood musical production. Completely immerse yourself in the magical world of Indian cinema with a visit here, as you experience all the excitement and wonder of their famously expansive and glamorous productions. 

Getting In: Admission to Bollywood Park is separately ticketed.

Dubai Creek Itinerary Attraction Options 

Dhow Dinner Cruise

Another wonderful relaxing option to end a day with is a ride on the authentic dhow vessel, a ship that celebrates the intersection of modern and traditional that so characterizes Dubai. A dinner cruise is a great way to enjoy the variety and flavor of global cuisine, as well as a fun sightseeing opportunity.

You'll get to see highlights of the downtown area, as Dubai Creek divides the city's urban heart into two. Top sights you'll see on your leisurely dinner cruise include the National Bank of Dubai and the Chamber of Commerce illuminated at night. 

Getting In: Dubai Marina Dhow Dinner Cruise tickets are included on the Dubai Explorer pass only

Dhow cruises

CityWalk itinerary attraction options:

The Green Planet

What's more amazing than a rainforest nestled inside a four-story building in the middle of the desert? Spend your morning at the Green Planet, Dubai's one-of-a-kind attraction that houses an entire rainforest, from Flooded Floor to Canopy. A visit here is not only beautiful and inspiring, it's also educational for visitors of all ages.

Learn about the rainforest biome as it appears throughout the world, and how scientists are working to conserve this highly endangered habitat. Plus, you get to see some cool critters like tropical frogs and butterflies. 

Getting In: The Green Planet Dubai is separately ticketed. 

Let's Recap

So if you're spending a week in Dubai, we hope this itinerary inspires you to craft your perfect vacation. Whatever you choose, we know you'll have a magical time in Dubai. Happy travels!

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🤩 >> If you want to see and do as much as you can, our All-Inclusive Pass is for you.

😎 >> If you want to pick just a few attractions and visit at your own pace, our Explorer Pass is the perfect option.

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A child decorates a Christmas tree on the beach
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Things to do in Dubai in December

December is a popular time to visit the desert state of Dubai. It’s one of the coolest times of year when it comes to the climate, whilst still providing the warmth that many will be missing back home. The emirate’s venues and attractions are alive with events too. Fancy a pre-Christmas break, or even spending the festive season amongst the souks, beaches and skyscrapers of Dubai? Check out our guide to Dubai in December! What’s the weather in Dubai in December? Usually weather sections are good news/bad news. Not so with Dubai in December, where it’s pretty much all positive. Whilst cold by Dubai standards, average daily temperatures hang around the mid-twenties Celsius, dropping to 16-19°C by night. That’s warm enough for most people to take a turn on Dubai’s beaches by day and head out and about by night with nothing more than a light coat, which are also useful additions for anyone entering the fierce air conditioning of the city’s malls and other indoor attractions. Describing it as rain probably makes too much of the showers that appear across two to four days of the month, since just 14 mm of precipitation is usually recorded for all of December. Like much of the rest of the year, days are dominated by sun, with eight hours of sunlight and 11 hours of daylight. Humidity levels hover around 60%, ensuring this isn’t much to worry about either. No wonder December in Dubai is peak tourist season! Making the most of the weather Out of bounds for several months because of the extreme heat, December welcomes people back to the dunes of the desert beyond the sky-piercing structures of downtown. An extraordinary contrast to the modern center of Dubai, the traditions of the sands can be explored with a desert safari and BBQ dinner. Capturing the dunes at sunset, this evening of Arabian delights includes authentic hospitality in the form of food, drink and entertainment. You’ll also have the chance to have your hands hennaed and ride a camel. Morning desert safaris and 4x4 quad bike rides are other ways to explore these landscapes. Further contrasts can be found at Miracle Garden. Never one to do things on a small scale – we give you the Burj Khalifa as an example – the Miracle Garden is the largest flower garden in the world, containing around 250 million individual plants. Open from October to April each year, December is a great time to visit both it and its attached butterfly garden – home to 15,000 of the insects from 26 different species. But if you’re somehow already missing the winter, you only need to head as far as the Mall of the Emirates, where amongst its boutique stores you’ll find Ski Dubai. It’s artificial mountain slopes provide over 22,000 square meters of skiable snow, alongside a small colony of gentoo and king penguins. Honor National Day If you hadn’t realized it already, behind its brash contemporary exterior Dubai has a soul that traces its heritage back to the pearl fishers of the Middle Ages. Saved from destruction, it’s Dubai Creek where much of this history is easiest to discover. The ideal place to start is Dubai Museum, occupying the 18th-century walls of Al Fahidi Fort. It is joined by the attractions of the Shindagha historic district, incorporating ancient structures in the heritage village and the Crossroads of Civilization Museum to boot. Cross the creek by boat or metro and you’ll be standing in the alleyways of the city’s souk marketplaces, from the reflected light of the gold souk to the rich aromas of the spice souk. It can all be enjoyed from the waters on a dhow dinner cruise of Dubai Creek. These are all the more special on the UAE’s national day on December 2, with skies lit up with major fireworks displays come evening. Christmas in Dubai Dubai has become a favorite destination for Christmas escapes. Acting as an international vacation and business hub has helped to ensure the season doesn’t go unnoticed, even if the vast majority of Dubai’s population are Muslim and don’t abide by the religious aspects of December 25. Large Christmas trees decorate many public spaces and santas set up workshops in many of the city’s malls with the help of their elves. Dubai Harbor and Souk Madinat Jumeirah are just two of the Christmas markets that appear, with ice rinks, food stalls and gift buying some of the attractions that await. Homely festive meals such as roast turkey with all the trimmings are easy to find in the restaurants of downtown, whilst those keen to attend mass are able to do so at Dubai’s churches. How to spend New Year in Dubai You only have to wait a few days after Christmas for the next celebration – New Year’s Eve. From quiet beginnings, midnight on December 31 has become an important way to advertise Dubai on the world stage. Celebrations usually center around the Burj Khalifa, with crowds gathering beside the Dubai Fountain next to it for several hours in preparation for the light show on the side of the building and the fireworks display above it. If you’d rather have a gala experience, there are plenty to choose between, with most of the city’s top venues the location of parties of one form or another, including the QE2. You’ll want to dress up for the occasion, so don’t forget to pack a cocktail dress or rent a three-piece suit in good time. Enjoy all Dubai in December has to offer Sun, sea, sand – and snow too if you want it – Dubai in December is everything you’ll want from a vacation destination during the festive season. Cool enough to explore the desert but warm enough to hit the beach, the Christmas events aren’t the only reason to holiday in Dubai in December. Grab your vacation time with both hands by taking advantage of the reduced attraction admission provided by Go City. Travel with one of our passes in tow and huge savings on many of the city’s top attractions will be at your finger-tips!
Ian Packham
Aerial shot of the Palm Jumeirah Dubai
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When is the best time to visit Dubai?

When is the best time to visit Dubai? And when should you not visit Dubai? Which are the best months for those with half an eye on budget, and what are the factors you should be looking out for when planning your trip to this Middle Eastern playground? If you’re asking any of these questions, you’re just a couple of minutes from learning the answers to them. You’re very welcome! Weather in Dubai The biggest factor worth considering when planning your Dubai vacation is the emirate’s weather. If you’re looking for a climate that can be relied upon to deliver, Dubai is the destination for you. The desert environment means monthly average temperatures in Dubai don’t drop below a very pleasant 24°C. But winter sports lovers shouldn’t despair, it’s still possible to hit the slopes at Ski Dubai. The lowest temperatures, of 24-28°C, are found between December and March, with January the coolest month. However, lower temperatures bring cloud and some rain – 16 mm in December and 28 mm in February. So if you’re heading to Dubai for the beaches, you might want to pick another time of year. Overall, the best time to visit Dubai for weather is the months of April and October/November. Although temperatures rise to the low thirties Celsius, clear skies show off the state at its very best and make for the perfect time of year to take in the views from the top of the Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building. May through August sees temperatures rocket. They quickly hit 38-40°C, emptying beaches and filling the air-conditioned malls. The desert outside of the city is an absolute no-no at this time of year and streets are all but deserted during the hottest parts of the day. What’s the best time to visit Dubai for events? Generally speaking, events are few and far between during the summer months, as no one seeks to do anything much very fast and even residents struggle with the heat. It is one of the best times to visit Dubai for shopping though, with Dubai Summer Surprises extending across July, August and September to lure shoppers to its multitude of stores with the promise of great discounts, live performances and raffles with top prizes including gold bars and luxury cars. Don’t forget that The Dubai Mall is also home to Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. By comparison, the first months of the year are packed with events. It all kicks off with the New Year fireworks, which radiate out from the Burj Khalifa as well as erupting in the skies above Palm Jumeirah and Festival City Mall among many other locations in the city. They give way to the rather more sedate Desert Classic, bringing the world’s top golfers to the emirate in search of tournament glory. February welcomes the likes of Roger Federer and Ashleigh Barty to the hardcourts of the Dubai Tennis Championship, with music aficionados also well catered for with the Dubai Jazz Festival. As much a society event as a horse race, the rich and famous are sure to make time in their diary for the Dubai World Cup, the world’s richest horse race, alongside World Art Dubai, the region’s largest contemporary art fair. There’s another chance to enjoy spectacular fireworks, as well as military flypasts and temporary cultural villages to remind everyone of their heritage on December 2, the National Day of the United Arab Emirates of which Dubai forms a part. Best time to visit for budget travelers The cheapest months to visit Dubai when it comes to flight and accommodation rates can be found during the city’s low season. This corresponds exactly with the summer, lasting from May through September. Unless a 4x4 quad bike ride in the desert is an absolute must, it’s worth considering these months if money is at the forefront of your mind. Alternatively, think about heading to Dubai in March or September instead. Temperatures are more amenable for exploring the ancient souks but high season prices aren’t yet kicking in. With schools in session right around the world, crowds are also minimal, making a trip to MOTIONGATE or Ferrari World all the more enjoyable. Visiting Dubai during Ramadan The holy month of fasting, Ramadan ends with the celebration of Eid al Fitr: families often buy their children gifts or new clothes and there are plentiful sweet treats to be had - keep an eye out for gars, a crumble sweetened with dates and cardamom, porridge-like harees and syrup-soaked lugaimat. This three-day no holds barred festival sees Dubai at its busiest. While it can definitely be an enriching cultural experience to visit at this time, be aware that it will mean some changes to your typical sightseeing. It is forbidden to eat, drink, chew gum or smoke in public, with many cafés and restaurants outside of hotels remaining shut during the day. Fines can be issued if you are found to be disrespecting these rules. In addition, some religious sites may shut their doors to non-Muslim visitors and taxis can be difficult to find in the early evenings, when drivers usually break their fast. Similarly smaller attractions may have shorter opening hours, whilst many stores choose to stay closed during the day and instead open for much of the night. Just a few things to consider if you're contemplating a trip during this period. Visiting Dubai with Go City Try it for yourself and we think you’ll soon agree that the best time to visit Dubai is the time you visit with Go City. We provide visitors to the world’s top destinations with discounted admission on a whole range of popular attractions. There’s no need to change your vacation plans or ditch your dream things to do. So whether it’s thrill seeking in Dubai’s amusement parks, absorbing the region’s culture at a culinary experience or taking a tour by traditional dhow or modern kayak, substantial savings can be made.
Ian Packham
dubai events and festivals
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Dubai Events and Festivals

Heading to Dubai this year and want to add a little festive spice to your trip? Check out our guide to the best events and festivals in Dubai! Dubai Shopping Festival When: All of January to the first week of February Where: Dubai Festival City Mall If shopping is your jam, then you'll love this shopping-themed festival! Since it began in the mid-90s, shops all over the country have offered amazing deals on brands from the high and low streets! Besides the bargains, numerous food-related events take place, as well as concerts, parades, game shows, ramp walks, and other activities. For you shopaholics, this is easily the best of Dubai's events and festivals! Dubai International Jazz Festival When: February Where: Al Sufouh While it's labeled a jazz festival, the Dubai International Jazz Festival is more of a celebration of music in general. Many non-jazz mainstream performers like Duran Duran and Ricky Martin have taken the stage in years past, alongside jazz provocateurs from the past half-century. So even if you're not a jazz fan (which, to be fair, is an acquired taste), you might still get something out of it! If you do attend, you'll be rubbing shoulders with nearly half a million people. Yes, it's that big, and you may not have even heard of it. It's also won awards. Who knew? Not you, that's for sure. Art Dubai When: March Where: Mina a'Salam Art Dubai is a celebration of all art forms, giving both established artists and up-and-comers a platform to strut their stuff. Launched by Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum back in 2007, it's one of the most diverse artistic events on the planet - drawing nearly thirty thousand collectors, curators, and museum representatives from all corners of the globe. Taste Of Dubai When: March Where: Dubai Media City Amphitheatre Food lovers, rejoice! Dubi has its own fantastic festival just for you foodies. For the past 15 years, Taste of Dubai has brought chefs and eaters together for a one-of-a-kind celebration of the region's cuisine. Every year the festival is visited by world-famous chefs and, if you're lucky, you might even get to see them put on a live cooking demo. Good luck, because these draw the biggest crowds at the festival. On top of all that, you've got places to buy new and exciting ingredients, stalls to try delicious local cuisine, and Dubai's restaurants also offer huge discounts on some of their most popular dishes. What a time to be alive. If you want to try local culinary delights, the Taste of Dubai is easily the best of Dubai's events and festivals. The Dubai Marathon When: March Where: Dubai Creek Club St Dubai even has its own marathon, if you can believe it. Mercifully taking place in the cooler, pre-summer month of March, it draws thousands of people to participate and spectate every year. But it wouldn't be a Dubai Marathon without a little Dubai opulence. That comes in the form of the prizes on offer, with 1st place netting the winner a cool $250k. Not bad for a bit of jogging. And, if anyone manages to break a world record, they'll receive $1 million! That's a lot of paper. So, what are you waiting for? Get practicing and see if you can make it home a millionaire! Dubai World Cup When: March Where: Nad Al Sheba Racecourse Not to be confused with the soccer world cup that takes place every four years, the Dubai World Cup is all about horses. And, with a prize pool of $10 million, it's one of the richest races in the world. Unsurprisingly, top jockeys, horses, and coaches flock to Dubai in March to try and win a piece of the pie. So, if you're into horse racing and think luck is on your side, why not head there and play the odds? Swim the Burj When: March Where: Burj Al Arab The Burj Al Arab is quite the sight to behold, and easily one of Dubai's most recognizable landmarks. Standing mightily on an artificial island, this fin or sail-shaped building is rather pretty. And what does an artificial island have around it? Water. And what does that mean you can do around the Burj Al Arab? That's right, bright sparks, you can swim it! Every year, hundreds of sea runners take to that moat around this capitalist behemoth and attempt to beat each other in a race. And you can watch, if you so desire. Dubai International Boat Show When: March Where: Dubai Marina In a city known for its wealth and wealthy residents, it's hardly surprising to discover that Dubai has its own boat show. But the Dubai International Boat Show is one of the city's most prestigious events, drawing boat brands and boat lovers from all over the place. You'll see big boats, bigger boats, and the biggest boats you've ever seen. Boats! But it isn't all boats. No siree. There's also a lovely art gallery to explore (that may be primarily focused on seafaring vessels), live music, and other entertainment to keep you, well, entertained. Are you not entertained? You will be. Looking to be wowed by extravagance? The Dubai International Boat Show is easily the best of Dubai's events and festivals! Al Gaffal Dhow Race When: September Where: The ocean Speaking of boats, let's talk about boats! But instead of the luxurious, opulent boats on display at the boat festival, we're talking dhows. What are dhows? Well, they're a traditional middle-eastern boat. And what is the Al Gaffal Dhow Race? Well, it's a race. A race with dhows. Part historical homage, part marketing push to Dubai's original trade of pearl diving, if you like boats and races, then they don't get much more boat-racey than this boat race. Dubai International Film Festival When: December Where: Al Sufouh The biggest of its kind in the region, the Dubai International Film Festival was first conceptualized as a way to encourage local filmmakers to bring their ideas to life on the silver screen. Since then, it has become somewhat of a haven for big-time actors, directors, and producers, who attend the show every year to find promising projects, or even more promising filmmakers, to work with. Since 2006, the festival has shown over 500 Arab films, and was responsible for the creation of two-thirds of those. As such, it's a great success for Arab cinema and one definitely worth checking out! And that's our guide to Dubai's biggest and best events and festivals! Looking for more fun for your vacation? Try Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass, you can see all of Dubai's best bits when and how you want.
Dom Bewley

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