99 things to do this summer in Dubai

1. Shop incredible bargains and check out the live entertainment as Dubai Summer Surprises kicks off from 28 June to 1 September. Keep your eyes peeled for Daily Surprises that pile on the savings.

2. Step into another universe – in fact, several universes – at AYA, a 40,000-square-foot immersive entertainment space in WAFI City Mall, where the environment reacts to your very presence.

3. Be on the edge of your seat as you witness the spectacular La Perle show, filled with daring stunts and evocative storytelling.

4. Explore the limitless possibilities of science, technology and innovation at the stunning Museum of the Future.

5. Watch the latest releases in comfort by sinking into the luxe seats at Reel Cinemas, VOX Cinemas or Roxy Cinemas.

6. Get your skates on at Roll DXB for a great roller disco experience. You'll soon be effortlessly spinning around the circuit in tune with the retro soundtrack. 

7. You won’t believe your eyes, as nothing is as it seems at the Museum of Illusions in Al Seef.

8. Break out of an escape room. There are plenty to choose from, including Jumeirah's Brain Game Dubai, NoWayOut in Jumeirah Lakes Towers or JBR's always popular TEPfactor.

9. Enjoy serious glow-in-the-dark indoor fun as you wander through the themed rooms to complete 18 holes at the psychedelic 3D Blacklight MiniGolf in Jumeirah Beach Residence.

10. Take to the battlefield at live combat simulation hub Xstrike Dubai in Al Quoz, Lasertag Thrill Zone on Sheikh Zayed Road or DIFC's Arena Games. You'll need to stay on target to secure victory.

11. Snap a selfie with wax figurines of your favourite local and international celebrities at Madame Tussauds Dubai.

12. Stay cool all day long at the largest indoor theme park in Dubai, IMG Worlds of Adventure, where Marvel and Cartoon Network characters greet you as you line up for thrilling rides in five adventure zones.

13. Spark your children's imagination at edutainment emporium OliOli. With multiple rooms, including one filled entirely with water features, the only downside will be having to leave.

14. Slide into a new hobby at Dubai Ice Rink's Summer Camp and ace your freestyle spins and crossovers in no time.

15. Jump around urban playgrounds like trampoline-based BOUNCE Dubai or the inflatable park Air Maniax Dubai, which caters to everyone from kids through to athletes.

16. Bag a bargain by visiting Dubai's outlet centres. Summer sales are on all over the city but, if you're looking for even bigger savings, head to The Outlet Village and Dubai Outlet Mall.

17. Everyone will be aflutter at Dubai Butterfly Garden, which is welcoming visitors to its enclosure throughout the summer.

18. Nurture your green fingers, and learn all about high-tech farming from the team at Al Quoz’s hydroponic UNS Farms.

19. Enjoy an elevated go-karting experience at Chaos Karts, which combines traditional gaming with high-tech visual and sound effects. This immersive attraction is located in Al Quoz and welcomes everyone aged nine and above.

20. Turn up the fun with a day at Adventure Park by Emaar, located at Dubai Hills Mall. Young ones can jump and hop on the enormous trampolines, master slick moves at the Ninja Park and glide down in rubber tubes at Slide’n’Fly.

21. While at Dubai Hills Mall, sign up to get a real taste of thrill with Dubai's fastest indoor roller coaster — The Storm Coaster.

22. The aptly-named Splash ‘n’ Party will cool you down with water-based fun, while regular roaming entertainment sets an upbeat tone.

23. If you're a fan of the beautiful game, make sure you visit Real Madrid World in Dubai Parks and Resorts. The world's first football theme park features more than 40 rides and attractions, including the region’s first wooden roller coaster and the world's tallest amusement ride at 460 feet.

24. Go for gold with Motiongate Dubai's annual pass, which not only gives you 365 days of unlimited park access but also free popcorn and discounts on valet parking, meals and merchandise.

25. With two new areas – Splashers Lagoon and Splashers Cove – there are now over 16 new attractions for the whole family to discover at Aquaventure Waterpark.

26. Watch the latest releases at Snow Cinema by VOX Cinemas in Ski Dubai, complete with a cosy blanket, heater, hot chocolate and snacks. 

27. Grab a bite and then test your skills against your friends at Unwind Speciality Board Games Cafe or Downtown Dubai's The Six.

28. Learn all about clean energy and its role in protecting the planet for future generations at the DEWA Innovation Centre, set in Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Solar Park.

29. Wander through a miniature city complete with shops, utilities and even a bank as little ones take on over 40 role-playing 'jobs' at KidZania Dubai.

30. Visit At The Top, Burj Khalifa to enjoy a spectacular start to your day thanks to sky-high views of the city from the 124th and 125th floors.

31. Watch the day break while horse riding on your chosen steed at Al Jiyad Stables.

32. Take flight and see the city from the skies on a scenic helicopter ride or via Skyhub's gyrocopter.

33. Take a biking tour of Al Qudra Lakes at Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve before heading back on the circuit at the nearby Al Qudra Cycle Track.

34. Perk up your mornings with a delicious breakfast at South African-accented tashas cafe or sample local fare at Arabian Tea House.

35. Watch Dubai's golden sunrise from 240m above ground at The View at The Palm.

36. Catch the early morning rays surrounded by the serene Arabian Sea by taking out a kayak with Kite'n'Surf.

37. Get one of the coveted 6am tee times to complete your 18 rounds at Dubai Hills Golf Club.

38. Experience two very different sides of the city by taking a dip at Kite Beach before getting your caffeine fix and breakfast at Jumeirah favourite The Hamptons Cafe.

39. Enjoy a jet-ski adventure and see the Dubai skyline from the water with Nemo WaterSports. Or test your balance by opting for a flyboarding excursion where you can soar up to 10m high.

40. Sweet and savoury treats, served on gold-tiered trays, delight at the Afternoon Tea in Raffles Salon. Little ones get their own curated version with snacks like chicken tenders, cupcakes and tiny turkey and cheese sandwiches, plus hot chocolate or juice.

41. Follow the aroma to the Coffee Museum in Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, where you can learn about the importance of the bean to Arabic culture.

42. Dine with a difference by adding entertainment on the side. Take in spellbinding performances at Babylon DIFC, watch international singing and acrobatic acts at Billionaire Dubai, or go on a musical journey at legendary showman Guy Manoukian's The Theater at Fairmont Dubai.

43. Gather your smartest friends and head to Phileas Fogg at Montgomerie Golf Club Dubai, where there’s a general knowledge quiz every Tuesday from 8pm. Or, make a beeline to Reform Social & Grill at The Lakes every Wednesday, where the Vintage Game Show Quiz Night kicks off at 7:30pm.

44. VR Racing simulators, retro arcade games and a 12-lane bowling alley will keep you stimulated at the adults-only Brass Monkey at Bluewaters Island or City Walk. If you're looking to go with the kids, then Wavehouse at Atlantis, The Palm provides a similar multi-faceted entertainment hub.

45. Treat yourself to lunch for two at some of the city's best restaurants, which are putting on great deals this summer. For example, head to Monno Ristorante and tuck into a three-course Italian lunch for just AED85, with dishes including ravioli al limone and tiramisu. 

46. Treat yourself to Italian-Japanese bites by the beach at Bla Bla, with a two-course lunch including water and tea or coffee for just AED99 (Sunday to Thursday, 12pm to 3pm).

47. Try something a little different, as you go on a South African taste odyssey at Harrie's Pancakes. The eatery in Nakheel Mall offers plenty of tempting savoury and sweet pancakes, from chicken peri peri and lamb bredie to apple pie and Kinder Bueno.

48. Anyone with a sweet tooth should visit Bonbon Café Angelo Musa in The Lana, Dorchester Collection. This chic patisserie in Business Bay offers stunning views of Dubai Water Canal, alongside Parisian delicacies including viennoiseries, pastries and artisanal ice cream.

49. Spoil yourself at FIVE Jumeirah Village's ReFIVE Spa, with a massage or facial, lunch and pool access for just AED399 per person – or see even more great spa deals.

50. Discover Michelin-starred plates at eateries such as STAY by Yannick Alléno, 11 Woodfire and many more – see all of Dubai's Michelin-recognised restaurants.

51. Take in unmatched views of Ain Dubai from Pavilion at The Beach, filled with local favourites such as Claw BBQ and Babushka.

52. Cap off a day spent shopping at Dubai Mall with a meal at gourmet food hall Time Out Market Dubai, which showcases some of the best homegrown eats in the city. Don't forget to head to the terrace when The Dubai Fountain starts to dance.

53. You'll find swimmingly good offers on beach and pool passes at hotels across the city, with weekday access at Riva Beach Club starting at AED150 on weekdays, or indulge at Palazzo Versace's pools for AED150, fully redeemable on F&B.

54. If you love steak, you're in for a treat. Dubai is home to a wealth of top-notch steakhouses, from the NYC-meets-Paris vibes of Rare to sky-high views at Prime68.

55. Wake up and smell the best coffee after getting a crash course at Al Quoz-based coffee roastery ROR, which hosts speciality coffee training courses including barista, brewing and sensory skills.

56. Take to the potter's wheel, mould clay and learn to craft a pot at Yadawei or Oka Ceramics in Al Quoz. Or paint some readymade crockery and grab a bite to eat at Pots & Paints Cafe in Jumeirah. 

57. You’ll have a scent-sational time if you enrol in a perfume workshop at Ooh La Lab in Alserkal Avenue.

58. Learn how to make your own cold-press body and face soaps using all-natural ingredients and essential oils at Âme Artistic Studio in Al Quoz.

59. You’ll be surrounded by a sea of colour — and have curious shoppers peering at you through the glass — as you go perfect your scuba diving skills at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.

60. Artists looking to brush up on their etchings or put paint to easel have a host of different disciplines to choose from at thejamjar in the creative surrounds of Alserkal Avenue.

61. Are you amazed by the diversity of languages in Dubai and now want to master the Emirati dialect? Sign up for a course with Al Ramsa Institute, where native speakers tutor all levels of participants, from beginners to the more advanced.

62. You’ll (eventually) get a hole in one at Topgolf Dubai, where experts are able to show you how to swing, putt and play the fun game.

63. Surf’s up and there’s no better place to learn how to ride the waves than Surf House in Jumeirah. Their coaches are not just brilliant surfers, but trained teachers too.

64. From customised private sessions to group classes, the experts at Alserkal Avenue's Gulf Photo Plus will have you snapping like a pro in your chosen photography speciality in no time.

65. The Workshop Dubai is your one-stop-shop for self improvement. Housed in a Jumeirah villa, the options to learn here include brush lettering and calligraphy, photographic printing and even a writing for wellness session.

66. Dessert fans should try a delicious workshop at Mirzam Chocolate Factory. You'll not only see how their signature sweet treats are made, but also learn how to perfectly mould your own chocolate bar topped with fruits, seeds and nuts.

67. Refresh your recipe portfolio by enrolling in culinary classes at Top Chef cooking studio. From pasta to BBQ and breakfast to healthy dishes, they have a broad range of sessions to try based on your interests and skills.

68. Push your limits at Topstretching. This unique, women-only workout focuses on strengthening your muscles while reducing anxiety and stress, with branches in Al Barsha, Downtown Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina and The Address JBR.

69. Whether you’re looking for team or solo sports, from tennis to football, Dubai Sports World at Dubai World Trade Centre will have an option, all hosted in a tailored, air-conditioned space. The venue is open from 22 June to 8 September 2024.

70. Bring the family to SuperPark Dubai, an indoor wonderland at City Centre Mirdif for adults and kids alike. Discover more than 40 attractions, including sliding mountains and ziplines, plus sports like street soccer, superbowling and air hockey.

71. Cool off on a paddleboard trip with Ignite Water Sports on Palm Jumeirah's Shoreline Residences. Or, if you’re feeling more confident, attempt yoga while balancing on your board at sunset with Super SUP Fit at DRIFT Beach Club.

72. Burn calories at upbeat fitness studios like BARE in Business Bay, CRANK Fit at Alserkal Avenue or the celebrity favourite Barry's which has two branches, in DIFC, Al Jaddaf and Dubai Marina.

73. If you're a fan of hammams, it might be time to try the extreme opposite in wellness rituals. The best athletes swear by it, and now taking an ice bath has become the norm in Dubai. Sign up with the professionals at Endorphins Method, who also offer fasting experiences and hiking adventures.

74. Pick a yoga style and a package that suits you at Inspire Yoga in Dubai International Financial Centre.

75. Improve your golf game at the Peter Cowen Golf Academy at Emirates Golf Club and Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club.

76. Venture to an underwater depth of 60m and discover a whole new world at the record-breaking pool attraction Deep Dive Dubai.

77. Get hooked on fishing adventures in Dubai by heading out on the water with Deep Blue Fishing, Go Fishing or Ocean Active.

78. Stay for longer at Bluewaters Island's luxury beach resort Banyan Tree Dubai for more savings this summer with their multi-night deals, and save as much as 25 per cent on your room. Or see even more fantastic summer hotel deals.

79. You’ll feel like you've been whisked off to Aspen when you lodge at Kempinski Hotel Mall of the Emirates' ski chalets, complete with wooden interiors and snowy slope views.

80. Get in the zone at Gamer Caves at Rove Downtown or Rove at the Park — the region’s first-ever hotel rooms designed exclusively for gamers. Decked out in top-of-the-range kit by Razer, they’ve even cooked up a special room service menu so you don’t have to interrupt the action.

81. Get your heart rate up while staying at JA The Resort – home of JA Beach Hotel, JA Lake View Hotel and JA Palm Tree Court – with access to an 800m private beach, seven pools, and fun activities such as water aerobics, squash, horse riding, mini golf, badminton and Zumba.

82. Take a dip in the longest pool on Palm Jumeirah when you stay at Taj Exotica Resort & Spa. If you're looking for more relaxing experiences, try a yoga session or book a massage at J Wellness Circle spa.

83. If your tribe never want to leave after a fun theme park adventure at Dubai Parks and Resorts, then keep tantrums at bay by booking a stay onsite at the only Legoland Hotel in the Middle East.

84. Experience the best of Thailand in Dubai with Anantara The Palm's GCC and UAE's residents offer, where you can get up to 35 per cent off accommodation, along with dining and spa discounts. 

85. Embark on an exciting theme park getaway with a stay at Lapita Hotel in Dubai Parks and Resorts. After a day of riding roller coasters, unwind at the property's luxury spa and pool or grab a bite at one of their many delicious eateries.

86. It'll be a holiday to remember thanks to Jumeirah Summer Escapes, at leading Jumeirah hotels and resorts. The offer includes up to 35 per cent off accommodation plus daily breakfast, lunch or dinner at select restaurants and complimentary access to Wild Wadi Waterpark.

87. Book your summer retreat at Atlantis, The Palm and enjoy their amazing underwater activities. From snorkelling to scuba diving and a shark safari that will leave you awestruck, water babies will have plenty to do at this luxury beach resort.

88. You won't have to splash out on any extras at Dubai Islands' Hotel Riu. Their packages are all-inclusive with food, beverages and snacks across four eateries — plus access to Splash Water World waterpark, the kids club and three swimming pools are included in your room rate too.

89. If you're looking for a scene that reflects designer chic, then a stay at Bulgari Resort Dubai might be the answer. Hop on a luxury yacht from their marina and explore landmarks like Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Water Canal by sea.

90. Catch new releases and classic movies from around the world at Cinema Akil. The arthouse venue also hosts different pop-ups with fresh screenings every month.

91. Head to Jameel Arts Centre to take in immersive exhibitions, enjoy fascinating talks, visit the Artist's Garden and more. 

92. Explore the stunning library at Fiker Institute in Alserkal Avenue. This creative hub houses more than 15,000 books in English and Arabic, and hosts everything from talks and lectures to conversations with authors and fellowship programmes. 

93. Be challenged by artistic expression at Downtown Dubai's Foundry, which features art exhibitions, a library, reading pods, a coworking space, a podcast room, a cafe and more. 

94. Get inspired at Etihad Museum, which tells the story of how the United Arab Emirates came to being through interactive exhibitions.

95. Hit new heights at Dubai Frame, which not only provides a unique vantage point from its bridge, but also houses multiple displays about the past, present and future of the nation.

96. Check out contemporary art space XVA Gallery, tucked away in the atmospheric Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, as it offers up a stimulating programme of exhibitions, pop-up dinners and creative classes this summer.

97. Book a live show at Dubai Opera, the world-class performing arts venue in Downtown Dubai. In addition to operas, the destination's diverse programme includes everything from ballets and classical orchestras to plays and pop concerts.

98. Take time to appreciate the serene Al Safa Art & Design Library in Jumeirah. This modern architectural gem houses a selection of curated books and tomes for all ages and interests.

99. Start your day off with enlightening conversation and delicious Emirati food at the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU).