When touching down in Dubai for the first time, you’ll have probably done a bit of research into the must-see whilst you’re in the city. Whilst we’d encourage you to get out and see as much as you can whilst here – some of the most popular spots do get over-crowded with tourists.
When Reece, our Digital Marketing Executive, arrived in Dubai for his first visit, he had plenty to tick off his list for the week.
We want to introduce you to the lesser visited spots that should absolutely go onto your Dubai Itinerary.
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Time Out Market
You’ll absolutely want to see the Burj Khalifa when you’re here, the world’s tallest building. The fountain show below is a must-see, but everyone else has the same idea. Luckily, we know a spot that not only avoids the vast majority of the crowd, but is the perfect place to enjoy an evening with food and drinks.
When heading out of the Dubai mall towards the fountains, head straight across the bridge and into the Souk Al Bahar building. Once up on the first floor, you’ll be met with the Time Out Market. Take your pick amongst some of the world’s most popular cuisines, grab a drink and settle down on the balcony with an unobstructed view of the fountains.
Top tip: stick around after the fountain show and enjoy live music and other events
La Mer Beach
When thinking of beach spots in Dubai, your first thought is probably Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). Whilst it is a stunning spot in its own right, it does attract a large crowd of people.
If you’re after a quieter spot, that still has a lot to offer, you’ll want to check out La Mer Beach. Rent a cabana with views of the Arabian Gulf and sun yourself for the day.
With a boardwalk packed full of bars and restaurants, you won’t be short of places to relax in the evening after soaking up the Dubai sun. If sunbathing gets too much in the day, you’ll be able to visit one of the many shops, take a trip to the cinema, or if you’re being adventurous, feel the adrenaline at the Laguna Waterpark.
Top tip: Try the burgers from SALT, some of the best Dubai has to offer!
Careem Bikes via Kite Beach
If you’re familiar with the Boris bikes in London – you’ll be at home with the Careem version.
We recommend picking up your ride at Al Habtoor City station in the early evening to give the temperature a chance to cool down. Picking it up from this spot will allow you to ride down the Dubai canal with the cityscape in the background whilst you head towards the picturesque Kite Beach as the sun is setting.
Take in the views along the beach as you cycle up towards the famous Burj Al Arab – with plenty of bike stations along the route, you can hop off the bike and take in the area. Once you reach the end of the cycle track, you can head back the way you came, where you’ll be met with stunning views of the night skyline back at Al Habtoor City station.
Top tip: remember to dock your bike every 45 minutes to avoid a charge
Top Golf: Emirates Golf Club
This may not exactly be “hidden”, but Top Golf probably isn’t at the top of everyone’s Dubai to-do List – however, we’re here to tell you why you should pay it a visit.
With jaw-dropping views of the Dubai Marina skyline (especially at night), you really couldn’t have picked a better location to play. Spend the evening with friends or family hitting balls down the driving range, enjoying the mini-games on the screen and eating good food.
Don’t worry if golf isn’t your sport either, Top Golf is fun no matter your ability. In fact, those who aren’t as comfortable with a club in their hand may find themselves at the top of the leader board.
Top tip: take advantage of the unlimited refills on soft drinks
Gold & Spice Souk: Old Dubai
When thinking of Dubai, most will picture the towering sky scrapers and luxurious sports cars, with very few picturing what the city used to look like before all of that.
We’d recommend spending a morning in Old Dubai, ambling through the markets and taking in the sights and smells of the Gold & Spice Souk’s. It can be a little overwhelming, with market traders coming at you from all angles offering you their products – but it is well worth the madness.
Top tip: embrace the smells and sights of the wide array of spices on display
Kayaking on the Palm
The Palm is something most people want to and should see whilst in Dubai, but not many chose to see it by kayak. Park up on the East side of the Palm Jumeirah near Club Vista Mare and head down to the beach to find the Monty’s Rowing & Paddle Sports stall where you can rent a kayak for an hour for as little as 40AED.
You might not be able to go round the island (it is a lot bigger than you’d imagine) but you do get a unique perspective of it that you’d otherwise not have seen. Paddle out from the beach and relax whilst taking in the sights of the houses of those lucky enough to call the Palm home.
Top tip: head down earlier in the morning to avoid the midday heat
Viewing Deck at the Museum of the Future
If the Museum of the Future is on your to-do list (we’d highly recommend it) – you don’t want to miss out on the viewing deck, that not many people are aware of, for a view of the World Trade District like no other.
On the second floor, Tomorrow Today, head towards the end of the room, away from the stairs and elevators and you’ll find a staircase that leads you outside to the inner shell of the museum.
The view from the deck is spectacular as you get to see the half curve of the museum as well as the skyline from there.
Top tip: keep your eyes peeled for the ads creative solutions office – we’re lucky enough to call ourselves neighbours!
Let’s hear from you…
If you’ve been touring the city and found a spot that deserves a place on our list, we’d love to hear from you. We’ve called Dubai home to our second office for over a year now and have loved every minute of it!
