DUBAI (The Thursday Times) — Dubai is the ultimate fall destination, offering a blend of culture, adventure, and luxury that attracts millions of visitors each year. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie, a history buff, or simply looking to relax on a beach, this vibrant city has something for everyone. Here’s a comprehensive guide to the best things to do in Dubai this fall.
Alserkal Avenue
This artsy district in Al Quoz is a hub for Dubai’s creative community, housing contemporary art galleries, design studios, and indie cafés. It’s a great spot for those interested in modern art, street culture, and alternative experiences in Dubai. What to do: Explore the galleries, attend a film screening at Cinema Akil, or grab a coffee at Nightjar.
Opening hours: 10 AM – 7 PM, daily.
Phone: +971 4 333 3464
Cinema Akil
An independent cinema located in Alserkal Avenue, Cinema Akil screens indie films, documentaries, and international cinema. It’s a refreshing change from mainstream movie-going experiences. What to do: Watch an indie film while enjoying a chai from Project Chaiwala.
Opening hours: Screening times vary; check the schedule online.
Phone: +971 58 524 6362
Saruq Al Hadid Archaeology Museum
Tucked away in the Shindagha Heritage District, this museum showcases artifacts from one of Dubai’s most important archaeological sites, Saruq Al Hadid, dating back to the Iron Age. What to do: Explore ancient relics, tools, and artifacts that reveal Dubai’s lesser-known history.
Opening hours: 8 AM – 8 PM (Sat–Thu), 4 PM – 8 PM (Fri).
Phone: +971 4 353 9090
XVA Art Hotel & Café
Located in the heart of Dubai’s Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, XVA Art Hotel combines an art gallery with a boutique hotel and a charming courtyard café. It’s a hidden gem for art lovers and those who want a more intimate stay. What to do: Enjoy a quiet afternoon sipping mint lemonade in the courtyard while browsing contemporary Middle Eastern art.
Opening hours: 9 AM – 6 PM, daily.
Phone: +971 4 353 5383
Jumeirah Fishing Harbour
For a more laid-back vibe, visit the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour. This hidden gem offers a glimpse of Dubai’s traditional fishing culture and has several seafood restaurants offering fresh catch. What to do: Stroll around the harbor, dine at local seafood joints like Bu Qtair, and enjoy the sunset.
Opening hours: Open 24 hours; restaurant hours vary.
Phone: +971 4 349 3454
The Majlis Café at Jumeirah Mosque
Located next to the Jumeirah Mosque, The Majlis Café offers a serene setting with a focus on camel milk products, from ice cream to lattes. What to do: Try their camel milk ice cream, a truly local and offbeat delicacy.
Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 11 PM, daily.
Phone: +971 4 388 4044
Al Qudra Lakes
Escape the city’s hustle and visit the man-made Al Qudra Lakes. Located in the desert, this is a peaceful spot for birdwatching, picnicking, or even cycling along the surrounding desert trails. What to do: Pack a picnic or bring binoculars to spot flamingos, swans, and other wildlife.
Opening hours: Open 24 hours, free entry.
Love Lake
Situated near Al Qudra Lakes, this heart-shaped lake is lesser-known but offers stunning views, perfect for couples or nature lovers. It’s a popular spot for walking or simply relaxing. What to do: Walk around the lake and enjoy the sunset. Bring snacks for a quiet picnic.
Opening hours: Open 24 hours, free entry.
Hatta Dam
Just outside of Dubai, Hatta Dam offers a peaceful escape for kayaking or paddleboarding in turquoise waters, surrounded by mountains. What to do: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and enjoy a peaceful time on the water.
Opening hours: Daily from 7 AM – 6 PM.
Phone: +971 4 852 1374
The Green Planet
A hidden tropical rainforest in the heart of the desert, The Green Planet is a bio-dome filled with exotic plants, birds, and reptiles. What to do: Walk through the indoor forest and meet sloths, birds, and reptiles.
Opening hours: 10 AM – 6 PM, daily.
Phone: +971 4 317 3999
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Located just outside the city, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a haven for birdwatchers. The wetland reserve is home to a variety of bird species, including flamingos, herons, and egrets. What to do: Visit the bird hides and enjoy a peaceful morning watching flamingos in their natural habitat.
Opening hours: 9 AM – 4 PM (Sat–Thu).
Phone: +971 4 606 6822
Dubai Coffee Museum
Nestled in the Al Fahidi Historical District, this small museum offers a glimpse into the history of coffee and its cultural significance, especially in the Middle East. What to do: Learn about coffee’s role in Arabic culture and sample traditional Arabic coffee.
Opening hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Sun–Thu).
Phone: +971 4 353 8777
Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU)
Nestled in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, SMCCU offers immersive cultural experiences aimed at promoting understanding of Emirati traditions and culture. What to do: Join a heritage tour or book a traditional Emirati meal, followed by an open Q&A session with locals.
Opening hours: 9 AM – 5 PM (Sun–Thu).
Phone: +971 4 353 6666
Abra Ride across Dubai Creek
A traditional abra (wooden boat) ride across Dubai Creek offers a glimpse into the city’s trading past. This is one of the best ways to experience Old Dubai. What to do: Take a quick, scenic ride across Dubai Creek and explore the old souks on the other side.
Opening hours: 5 AM – 12 AM, daily.
Al Marmoom Camel Race Track
Experience the thrill of camel racing at this track located on the outskirts of the city. This traditional sport gives insight into Emirati culture and heritage. What to do: Watch a live camel race or take a behind-the-scenes tour.
Opening hours: Race season typically runs from October to April. Races start early.
Phone: +971 55 676 0006
The Farm at Al Barari
Situated in the lush greenery of Al Barari, this tranquil escape offers an outdoor dining experience amid gardens, streams, and lakes—ideal for nature lovers. What to do: Enjoy a leisurely organic meal or take a walk through the serene gardens.
Opening hours: 7:30 AM – 10:30 PM, daily.
Phone: +971 4 392 5660
Etihad Museum
This museum tells the story of the formation of the UAE through immersive exhibits and historical documents. What to do: Learn about the UAE’s history through interactive displays and original artifacts.
Opening hours: 10 AM – 8 PM, daily.
Phone: +971 4 515 5771
Jumeirah Archaeological Site
One of the most important archaeological sites in the UAE, this area dates back to the 9th century and offers a peek into Dubai’s ancient history. What to do: Visit the site to see remnants of the old trading routes and settlements from the Abbasid era.
Opening hours: Varies; best visited through guided tours.
Phone: +971 4 349 6872
Dubai Miracle Garden
Known for its vibrant flower displays and unique landscaping designs, Dubai Miracle Garden is a refreshing and colorful escape from the city. What to do: Wander through the 72,000-square-meter garden, home to floral sculptures like an Emirates A380 plane made entirely of flowers.
Opening hours: 9 AM – 9 PM (Sun–Thu), 9 AM – 11 PM (Fri–Sat).
Phone: +971 4 422 8902
Alserkal Avenue Art Galleries
This contemporary art hub is home to numerous galleries, exhibitions, and creative events. What to do: Explore the contemporary art scene with exhibitions from local and international artists.
Opening hours: 10 AM – 7 PM, daily.
Phone: +971 4 333 3464
Dubai Garden Glow
Located in Zabeel Park, Dubai Garden Glow is a seasonal attraction that transforms into a glowing wonderland with light displays and sculptures made from recycled materials. What to do: Visit at night to see the park come alive with illuminated sculptures and LED displays.
Opening hours: 4 PM – 11 PM (Sat–Thu), 4 PM – 12 AM (Fri).
Phone: +971 55 918 8126
Mushrif Park
A large family park offering nature trails, a mini zoo, and the popular “Aventura” adventure park with zip lines and rope courses. What to do: Spend a day enjoying outdoor activities, cycling, or exploring the park’s treetop adventure.
Opening hours: 8 AM – 11 PM, daily.
Phone: +971 4 288 3624
Majlis Ghorfat Umm Al Sheif
This historic summer retreat built by the late Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum offers a glimpse into Dubai’s Bedouin heritage. What to do: Visit the restored majlis and its surrounding palm gardens.
The Camel Museum
This hidden gem located in the Al Shindagha neighborhood explores the deep-rooted significance of camels in Emirati culture, from their role in daily life to their importance in transportation and trade. What to do: Learn about camel anatomy, their historical importance, and even camel racing.
Dubai Butterfly Garden
Adjacent to the Dubai Miracle Garden, this enchanting space is home to thousands of butterflies in a controlled indoor environment. What to do: Walk through the dome-shaped enclosures and see butterflies from around the world.
