Planning a Trip to Dubai? Here Are the Must-Try Tours You Shouldn’t Miss

Planning a trip to Dubai? Then you’re probably wondering which tours are truly worth your time (and money). With so many experiences on offer — from soaring above skyscrapers to gliding across the sea at sunset — it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s why we’ve done the legwork for you. 

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or coming back for another round, this article highlights the must-try tours that really bring Dubai to life. 

Think of unforgettable views, fun adventures, and moments that stick with you long after the trip ends. These are the experiences travelers love — and ones you definitely shouldn’t miss when exploring this unforgettable city. Intrigued? Keep reading! 

Fly High: The Dubai Helicopter Tour

Want to see Dubai from a view that most people only dream about? The Dubai helicopter tour is hands down one of the most thrilling and memorable ways to do it. You’ll soar over the city and catch a bird’s-eye view of famous landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Palm Jumeirah, and more.

In just 12 minutes, you get to see the whole city in a way that walking or driving just can’t match. It’s short, sweet, and absolutely unforgettable. The pilot also gives a little guided tour while you fly, so it’s educational, too. Best of all, you can easily book this tour online in advance for added convenience.

If you love big views and bold moments, this one’s for you.

Desert Safari Adventure

The city’s roots are in the desert, so this one’s a classic. A desert safari tour is like a rollercoaster on the sand. Seriously—you hop in a 4×4, and the driver zooms over dunes like it’s a race. It’s bumpy, wild, and so much fun.

But the fun doesn’t stop with dune bashing. Most tours include camel rides, sandboarding, henna painting, and even a belly dance show under the stars. Oh, and let’s not forget the BBQ dinner—it’s delicious.

If you’re traveling with family or friends, this tour has a little something for everyone. Just don’t forget your sunglasses and water bottle!

Relax on a Dhow Cruise

Need something more laid-back? A dhow cruise is perfect. Dhows are traditional wooden boats, and now they’re used for these relaxing dinner cruises along the city Creek or the Marina.

You get on board, enjoy a buffet dinner, and watch the city lights reflect on the water. It’s calm, peaceful, and kind of magical. Some cruises even have live music or traditional dancing to entertain you.

This one’s perfect for couples, families, or anyone looking to wind down after a long day of sightseeing. 

Pro tip: go for the evening cruise—it’s cooler, and the skyline looks amazing after sunset.

Visit the View at The Palm

Ever wanted to stand at the top of a palm tree? Well, not a real one—but The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai’s man-made island shaped like a giant palm, has a sky-high viewpoint called The View at The Palm.

From here, you can see the island layout perfectly. It’s one of those “you have to see it to believe it” things. Take your time, snap a few photos, and soak in the 360-degree views.

It’s a good break from the busy city streets and a great way to appreciate how much thought went into building this unique place.

Explore Old Dubai on a Walking Tour

The city isn’t all glitz and glam. There’s a side of the city that’s full of history and charm—and you can discover it on a guided walking tour of Old Dubai.

You’ll wander through the Al Fahidi Historical District, explore museums, and cross the city’s creek on an old-school abra boat. You’ll also get to visit local souks (markets) where you can shop for spices, gold, perfumes, and handmade stuff.

It’s the perfect way to connect with the city’s culture and roots. And honestly, it’s a nice break from malls and skyscrapers.

Don’t Miss the Miracle Garden

Yes, there’s a garden in the middle of the desert. And not just any garden—it’s called the Dubai Miracle Garden, and it’s filled with over 150 million flowers arranged in all kinds of crazy shapes: hearts, castles, and even a full-size airplane!

If you like nature, colors, or just pretty things, you’ll love this spot. It’s also super Instagrammable, so don’t forget your phone. Go early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid the heat and crowds.

It’s only open in the cooler months (usually November to May), so plan your visit accordingly.

Cool Off at Aquaventure Waterpark

If you’re traveling with kids—or just a big kid at heart—Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis is a blast. It’s one of the biggest waterparks in the world, and it’s got everything from lazy rivers to record-breaking water slides.

There’s even a shark-filled lagoon you can zip through in a tube. Yes, really.

You can spend a full day here and still not try everything. Plus, the location at Atlantis, The Palm, makes it easy to combine with a fancy lunch or walk by the beach.

Final Tips Before You Book

• Book in advance: Dubai is a hotspot, and the best tours fill up super quickly—so don’t wait till the last minute.
• Check the weather: It can get seriously hot. Aim for early morning or evening tours to stay cool and comfy.
• Bring ID: For some experiences, like the helicopter tour, ask for a photo ID at check-in—it is better to have it than not.
• Read reviews: A quick peek at what others say can help you avoid surprises.

And don’t stress if you can’t do everything in one trip. This city has a way of calling people back. 

Final Thoughts 

Dubai is full of wow moments that are just waiting for you. Whether you’re flying over skyscrapers, racing through the desert, or drifting along a peaceful creek, there’s a tour with your name on it.

Just pack your sunscreen, a sense of adventure, and a fully charged phone—because trust me, you’ll want to capture every second.

Happy travels, and enjoy your time in this one-of-a-kind city!