Dubai is a city that embodies luxury and extravagance, and there's a reason why people from all over the world decide to return again and again to this city - a city which only 30 years ago was unknown to most people outside of the region.

Dubai can be enjoyed on so many different levels, so in this guide, we'll take you through some of the must-do activities including one or two that are definitely out of the normal 'tourist' box to make your trip to Dubai truly fly.

 

Soaring Through Dubai: Tips for Making Your Trip Fly

Dubai is a city of contrasts, where tradition and modernity meet in perfect harmony. Here are some tips for making the most of your trip:

Take a Thrilling Desert Safari

No trip to Dubai is complete without a desert safari. Get ready to explore the rugged beauty of the desert and experience traditional Emirati culture, complete with camel rides, belly dancing, and a sumptuous barbecue dinner under the stars.

Shop Like a Boss at Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall is a shopaholic's paradise, with over 1,200 stores, including high-end fashion brands, restaurants, a giant aquarium, an ice-skating rink, and a movie theatre.

Take in the View from the Top of Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, and offers stunning panoramic views of the city from its observation deck on the 124th floor.

Skiing in the Desert at Ski Dubai

Escape the heat and hit the slopes at Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort located in the Mall of Emirates.

 

Going Beyond 'Dubai'

Dubai is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and all seven of them have their own character and like Dubai, are steeped in history and culture. Other emirates in the UAE include Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah, and Ras Al Khaimah, each with its own unique attractions and experiences to offer. The drive to Ras Al Khaimah is around an hour, and when you get there, you're be amazed by the contrast to Dubai - a peaceful oasis of stunning beaches and mountains. If you do go, make sure you try the 'Jebel Jais Flight' which is the world's longest zip line. The zip line takes you on a high-speed ride through the stunning Jebel Jais mountain range, offering panoramic views of the rugged landscape and the surrounding desert. You'll soar through the air at speeds of up to 120 kilometres per hour (75 miles per hour), reaching heights of up to 1,680 metres (5,500 feet) above sea level.

Travelling to the UAE's capital Abu Dhabi from Dubai takes around 1.5 hours in normal traffic. Aside from the amazing cuisines available there, you can explore the Emirates Palace, take a stroll along the Corniche which is a beautiful waterfront promenade that stretches along the city's coastline, and even visit Abu Dhabi's very own Louvre museum.

 

Elevate Your Experience: Extraordinary Things to Do in Dubai

Dubai is a city that never sleeps, and there are plenty of extraordinary experiences to be had. Here are some of the top picks:

Take a Hot Air Balloon Ride

Soar high above the city and experience the breathtaking beauty of Dubai from a hot air balloon.

Visit the Miracle Garden

Explore the world's largest flower garden, with over 45 million flowers in bloom, and marvel at the stunning floral displays.

Sail Around Palm Jumeirah

Experience the city's iconic Palm Jumeirah from a luxury yacht, and take in the stunning views of the city skyline.

Dine in the Desert

Have a unique dining experience in the middle of the Dubai desert, under the stars, with sumptuous food and an unforgettable atmosphere.

 

From the Extraordinary to the Extreme:

Dubai is not only a city of luxury and opulence, but also a playground for adrenaline junkies. Here are some of the top extreme activities that will literally have you 'flying' in Dubai.

Skydiving Over Palm Jumeirah

For a breathtaking view of Dubai's stunning skyline, take to the skies and try skydiving over Palm Jumeirah. You'll soar high above the city and experience an adrenaline rush like no other.

Bungee Jumping from the World's Tallest Building

The ultimate thrill-seeker's dream, bungee jumping from the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, is a once-in-a-lifetime experience that is sure to leave you with unforgettable memories.

Flyboarding in Dubai's Marina

If you've ever dreamed of flying, flyboarding is the perfect experience for you. In Dubai's Marina, you can strap on a jetpack and soar high above the water, with the stunning cityscape as your backdrop.

Sandboarding on Dubai's Dunes

Dubai's sand dunes are the perfect place to try your hand at sandboarding, a thrilling extreme sport that involves sliding down steep desert dunes on a board. You'll get an adrenaline rush as you carve your way down the sandy slopes.

Indoor Skydiving at iFly Dubai

For those who want to experience the thrill of skydiving without the risk of jumping out of a plane, indoor skydiving at iFly Dubai is the perfect choice. You'll experience the sensation of freefalling in a safe and controlled environment.

Aerobatic Flights in Dubai

For the ultimate thrill-seeker's experience, take to the skies in an acrobatic plane and experience exhilarating stunts and manoeuvres, such as loops, rolls, and spins. You'll be strapped into the cockpit with a professional pilot who will take you on a thrilling ride above the stunning Dubai skyline. This is an extreme sport experience that is not for the faint of heart, but for those who want to push their limits and experience the ultimate adrenaline rush, aerobatic flights in Dubai are an unforgettable experience.

Stay in Style: Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai

After a day of exploring the city, you'll need a comfortable and luxurious place to relax and unwind. The Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai offers just that, with a rooftop pool, on-site spa, and world-class amenities that are sure to make your stay unforgettable. With a wide range of thrilling activities and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, Dubai is every traveller's dream destination.