New York may be the ‘city that never sleeps’, but Dubai in the United Arab Emirates is the ‘city of dreams’. With countless things to do in Dubai at night, you’re sure to have a fun time.
Full of bright lights and exciting futuristic architecture, Dubai knows how to keep you entertained both day and night. From clubs and rooftop bars to luxury resorts, shopping malls, and man-made islands.
Before moving to Canada, I was lucky enough to live in this desert oasis for three years.
Although there are many pros to living in Canada, there is nothing like Dubai. Read on to discover my top picks for the best things to do in Dubai at night.
Places to Visit in Dubai at Night | The Best Things to Do in Dubai at Night
1. Get a Taste of Authentic Dubai Culture at Desert Safari
If you’re only going to do one thing in Dubai at night, it should be the desert safari.
It’s an evening packed with action. It all starts with a pickup with a 4×4 jeep. Your local guide dressed in a traditional white rope – khandoora takes you sand dune riding and sand boarding. Yes, that’s right, it’s like snowboarding but on the sand instead.
After all the fun in the sand, you’re dropped off at the camp at sunset for a buffet-style dinner and belly dance performance. You can also try to ride a camel, smoke shisha, get a henna painting, or take photos in traditional Arabic clothes if you like.
And if that’s not enough yet, you can extend the evening safari to an overnight stay at the desert camp. This way, you get a full taste of authentic Arabic culture.
A tent, mattress, pillow, and blankets are included in your desert safari package. The best part is the Arabian desert has low light pollution, so the stars look magical at night.
I had a great experience with the Royal Mirage desert safari, however, they only provide evening safaris, no overnight stays at the camp.
Tip: This is a wonderful option for an overnight desert safari experience.
2. Marvel at the Dubai Fountain Show
Dubai Fountain is an iconic tourist attraction right next door to the Dubai Mall and a must-see show for everyone visiting the city.
The choreographed fountain dances in perfect rhythm to classical, contemporary, or Arabic music, showcasing 30 minutes of synchronized dancing with lights and fog under the night sky.
No matter how many times you see the Dubai Fountain Show, it never gets old. In my opinion, it looks even more mesmerizing at night time. The show activates every 30 minutes from 6 pm daily.
If you don’t want to squeeze yourself among the rest of the crowd, you can go for dinner in one of the many restaurants overlooking the canal in Dubai Mall, Souk Al Bahar, and Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard. My favorite spot to view the fountain show is from Joe’s Cafe’s outdoor patio.
And the best part is that watching the fountain performance won’t cost you a dime. It is one of the best things to do in Dubai at night for free!
3. Sip Cocktails at the Rooftop Bar – Level 43
This list of things to do in Dubai at night wouldn’t be complete without including an epic rooftop bar.
Dubai is famous for its skyline and highrise buildings, and the best place to take in all of that beauty is from the top.
Level 43 sky bar at Four Points by Sheraton has one of the most breathtaking views of Dubai at night.
It’s a chic and vibrant spot with great music, cocktails, and a stunning blue-lit terrace overlooking the Dubai skyline, including the one and only Burj Khalifa.
The cocktails are reasonably priced for such an upscale lounge, and there’s also a good selection of meals and snacks to share with friends.
Level 43 is on Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai’s main highway, so it’s easy to find.
It’s a great place to get your pre-drinks before hitting one of the many Dubai clubs just down the road.
4. Escape the Heat and Go Skiing in the Mall of the Emirates
Skiing in the desert? You might think that I’m crazy, but anything is possible in Dubai.
Dubai has built a massive indoor winter wonderland/ski park inside the shopping mall.
Of course, the 85m artificial snow slope of Ski Dubai is nothing like skiing in the powdery mountains of Canada, but it still counts.
Besides, when it’s 45 C outside, it’s a perfect place to cool off on a hot summer day.
If skiing doesn’t appeal to you, consider their penguin encounter experience or simply build a snowman and ride the Snow Bullet zipline.
5. Take a Stroll in Dubai Marina
One of my most favorite things to do in Dubai at night is take a stroll on the Dubai Marina waterfront.
It’s a very pedestrian-friendly area of town accessible by the Dubai Tram.
You can walk and marvel at shining futuristic skyscrapers and yachts. Marina is especially delightful to witness at night.
After your walk, you can fill up your belly at Asia Asia. It’s an Asian restaurant in Pier 7 with fascinating decor and panoramic views of the Marina.
For something more low-key and Arabic flavors, check out Zatar w Zeit. You’ll find here classics, such as falafel, halloumi cheese, fatoush salad and delicious wraps.
Alternatively, hop on a Dubai Marina cruise and enjoy a nice meal, the views, and live music.
6. Cruise with an Abra Boat in Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Visiting Souk Madinat Jumeirah is another amazing activity to do in Dubai at night. It’s an indoor oriental-style bazaar with AC, which can be a relief during hot summer nights.
It’s a perfect place to buy your souvenirs. You’ll find here everything from jewelry and handmade carpets to calligraphy art, spices, camel toys and more.
At the far end of the souk, a long string of restaurants lines the waterfront. You can enjoy getting lost in the walkways and small bridges that wind through the complex.
Madinat is also one the best places to get the views of Burj Al Arab, a luxurious sail-shaped building often referred to as “the world’s only seven-star hotel”.
After all the shopping, you can grab a drink or two at the fancy Studio Club & Rooftop. They have a great selection of meals, drinks, and shisha flavors.
I recommend taking the 20-minute cruise in a traditional wooden abra boat to fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of the place. The boats remind me a bit of the gondolas in Venice.
7. View Downtown Dubai from the Burj Khalifa Observation Deck
Don’t miss the opportunity to ride the world’s fastest elevator up to the top of Burj Khalifa. After all, it’s not every day that you get to stand on top of the tallest building in the world.
You can’t help but feel a rush of excitement as you enter. The elevator is so fast that the elevator ride in itself feels like a thrilling rollercoaster.
The skyscraper has a whopping 828 meters (2716,5 feet) and spectacular views of Downtown Dubai.
You can buy Burj Khalifa tickets to one of the two observation decks on the 124th or the 148th floor.
Burj Khalifa is open between 10 am to midnight (The last entry time being 11 pm throughout the week).
Don’t forget to take a photo with butterfly wings.
Here are some Burj Khalifa ticket options to choose from:
1. Regular entry ticket: Ascend to the 124th and 125th floors for a panoramic 360-degree view over the Arabian Gulf.
2. Treat yourself to a premium experience on the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors of the Burj Khalifa, including access to the outdoor terrace of the world’s highest observation deck.
3. VIP ticket to experience the 152, 153, and 154 floors of the Burj Khalifa with access to the lounge and a light meal. Enjoy a selection of teas and coffees, a house beverage or a glass of bubbly along with canapes.
4. Combo ticket to the Dubai Aquarium and Burj Khalifa. Ascend the Burj Khalifa for panoramic views from levels 124/125 + see marine life.
8. Sample International Food at Dubai Global Village
Dubai Global Village comes to life, especially at night when all the buildings light up.
It’s full of replicas of famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Taj Mahal, Pyramids and more. The village represents 90 different cultures around the globe.
If you’re a foodie like me, you’ll appreciate a wide selection of international street food. From Asian noodles to rainbow burgers and Georgian khachapuri, you name it.
You can walk around and stop by different exhibits, each representing a different culture.
It’s an especially fun spot for families with kids. You can sample a variety of flavors and enjoy live performances and roller coaster rides.
9. Enjoy the Magical Atmosphere of Candlelight Concert
Dubai isn’t only about clubbing and shopping, a new cultural scene is also starting to emerge.
If that’s your cup of tea, then you may want to check out the Candlelight Concerts.
The concerts feature live performances illuminated by hundreds of flickering candlelights to enhance the overall experience.
You can expect classical music or contemporary hits. The themes vary from Coldplay to Hans Zimmerman or Ludovico Einaudi.
10. Explore the Underwater World with a Night Scuba Diving Trip
For the more adventurous out there, why not go for a night scuba diving trip? I’ve tried both day and night diving with Nemo and had a very positive experience.
Even if you’ve tried scuba diving before, at night with flashlights, everything seems more mysterious.
Many marine species like lobsters, octopuses and eels become more active at night when it gets quieter, so you may discover marine life you wouldn’t typically encounter during the day.
On top of that, with limited visibility, your senses get heightened. I was especially fascinated by jellyfish emitting bioluminescent light at night, adding to the magical experience.
11. Step into the Immersive Universe of AYA Dubai
AYA is one of the newer additions to an extensive list of tourist attractions in Dubai.
It’s a light and sound exhibition with 12 different rooms/universes. Each universe has a unique theme, different lights, smokes, scents, sounds and music.
From the moment you step in, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a new, surreal world of dreams.
It’s definitely one of the most unique things to do in Dubai at night. I recommend going later in the evening; otherwise, there may be many kids running around.
Take your time in each room to really absorb the special atmosphere and all the audio and visual effects.
You can find this attraction in Wafi City Mall. I find AYA much more exciting compared to Dubai Garden Glow.
12. Watch a Movie at Open Air Cinema
For a relaxed evening, take your friends or special someone to the VOX Cinemas rooftop at Galleria Mall.
Grab some snacks and watch the latest movies on a big screen in an open-air cinema. This is especially a great choice during cooler winter months when you can enjoy mild temperatures.
On weekends, you can also watch outdoor movies at the JBR area in Dubai, surrounded by skyscrapers on a nice grassy patch. I love the seating on cozy bean bags.
Just keep in mind that all the outdoor events are paused during summer because the temperatures are too high.
13. Check Out Sharks at Dubai Aquarium
Dubai Mall is not a typical shopping mall. It has an ice rink, aquarium, art installations, dancing fountain and more.
Dubai Aquarium and the Underwater Zoo have more than 33,000 marine species to admire. You’ll be amazed by sting rays, colorful fish and sharks swimming behind the massive glass wall.
The aquarium looks awesome from the outside, and it’s free of charge unless you want to enter and explore it more in-depth.
It’s also possible to dive inside, have a close-up encounter with penguins and otters or watch divers feed the sting rays and sharks.
Close to the Dubai aquarium, you’ll find a popular American restaurant, Cheesecake Factory, with delicious meals and an even more delicious selection of cheesecakes.
14. Stimulate Your Senses at Infinity des Lumières Museum
After you get enough of the underwater world and cheesecakes, you can go for a cultural escape to Infinity des Lumieres. This digital art museum is conveniently located inside the Dubai Mall.
You’ll see timeless artworks of Gaudi, Van Gogh, Kandinsky and Klee through a multi-sensory experience.
The museum uses a combination of digital imagery and special audio effects to captivate all your senses.
It’s a must-visit spot in Dubai for any art lover.
15. Go on a Sunset Cruise in Dubai Marina
To make your night in Dubai extra special, go on a sunset cruise in Dubai Marina.
You can sit back and enjoy the fantastic views of JBR, Bluewaters and Marina while sipping drinks and savoring buffet-style dinner. They even have a live pasta cooking station.
The cruise usually lasts around 90 minutes onboard a 125ft glass boat accompanied by a live musician.
A fun addition is having a red carpet entry where you can take cool photos.
I recommend booking a seat on the upper deck for the best scenic views.
16. Have Dinner in the Sky with Unbeatable City Views
Dinner in the sky is probably not the best idea if you’re afraid of heights, but if that’s not a concern for you, it’s a bucket list experience.
You get lifted 50 meters high in the sky and enjoy a delicious three-course meal with unbeatable city views. The menu is customizable. You have the choice of starter, main and dessert.
You’ll be served your meals directly by the chef, who stands in the middle of the platform that rotates 360 degrees. This way, you can take in the shining views of the entire city from each angle.
The Sky table can seat a maximum of 22 people per session. The entire experience lasts about 90 minutes.
The music, food, and service are exceptional. You definitely won’t be disappointed.
Wear comfy clothes. At night, the weather up there can be a bit unpredictable. It can get hot, chilly, or windy up there.
17. Unwind at Full Moon Yoga
The full moon yoga at Talise Spa takes place on Jumeirah Qasr Beach, where you can lose yourself to the sound of gentle waves.
It’s a perfect activity for the night in Dubai if you’re in the mood for something relaxing.
The yoga teacher will guide you through an hour of yoga under the moonlight. The yoga session is suitable for all levels.
The yoga class is followed by a relaxing meditation session. The goal is to help you destress and connect with the powerful energy of the full moon.
Plus, from the beach, you have the excellent views of Burj Al Arab.
18. Get Mesmerized with La Perle by Dragone Show
La Perle is a magical live show that takes place on an aquatic stage. You’ll be mesmerized by around 65 acrobats performing their stunning stunts.
The show has been put together by Franco Dragone, one of the original creators of Cirque du Soleil.
It’s a spectacular performance with impressive art, aerial and aquatic stunts paired with atmospheric music and special visual effects.
The show lasts around 90 minutes, and La Perle tickets can be purchased online.
19. Ride a Horse Under the Moonlight
If you fancy something a little different, then moonlight horseback riding is a great choice.
Take a unique horse-riding tour to Mushrif Park and experience an unforgettable ride under the moonlit sky.
The horses are professionally trained and you don’t need previous riding experience for this activity. The friendly staff will match you with the right horse based on your level of experience.
It’s a magical hour ride, where you’ll have only the moonlight to guide you.
20. Attend a Show at Ellegant Dubai Opera
Dubai Opera, Shaped like a traditional dhow boat, is Dubai’s world-class performing arts venue.
Despite its name, it actually hosts a wide range of shows, including musicals, ballet, comedy shows, rock concerts and more.
The building is beautiful inside and out, seating 2,000 people. There’s also a spacious lobby bar, perfect for having drinks before or after the show.
A glass front overlooks Burj Lake. You’ll also see stunning views of Burj Khalifa.
It’s definitely a great way to end your night in Dubai. You can check their website for upcoming shows and purchase tickets directly from there.
TIP: You could also explore downtown Dubai on a guided walking tour, which includes stops at the iconic Burj Khalifa, sprawling Dubai Mall, Dubai Opera, and other noteworthy attractions.
21. Smoke Shisha at JBR Smoky Beach
One of the best things to do in Dubai at night is smoking shisha at Smokey Beach, JBR.
You can sit right on the beach while you sip your cocktails, eat sushi and enjoy the views of Ain Dubai Ferris Wheel, the world’s largest observation wheel.
It’s a perfect spot to hang out with friends and spend a chill evening in Dubai.
The location is amazing, right on the Walk at JBR beach. It’s a 1.7 km-long strip with a great selection of cafes, shops and restaurants.
Keep your eyes open for fancy cars and Ferraris casually cruising by.
For families with kids, there is a vibrant waterfront fun zone complete with a kiddie splash park, an outdoor gym, a crafts market and more.
22. Dance All Night at One of the Many Clubs
The clubbing scene in Dubai is incredible. The city has one of the best nightclubs I’ve experienced, hands down.
Clubs in Dubai favor especially ladies with countless ladies’ nights when you’ll get free drinks and nibbles.
Plenty of beach clubs open in the cooler months.
The best clubs for outdoor beach parties are Barasti, Zero Gravity and White Dubai.
Another fun nightclub is Cirque le Soir, a cabaret-style place that even has acrobats, jugglers and clowns.
Make sure to take advantage of the many happy hours offered by most bars in Dubai.
23. Buy Gold at Gold Souk
One nickname of Dubai is a city of gold and for a good reason.
As soon as you step into Dubai’s Gold Souk, you’ll feel as though you’ve entered Aladdin’s cave or some kind of pirate treasure collection.
The bazaar is in Deira, filled with shops selling golden jewelry, including golden bricks.
I’ve never seen so much gold in one place.
You don’t need to worry about fakes at the Gold Souk. The quality of gold is government-regulated, so you can be fairly confident that the golden pieces are genuine.
The price of gold is fixed, but you can haggle for different jewelry pieces. Haggling is expected and if you do it well, you can drop the initial asking price by 20% to 30%.
The Gold Souk is right next to the Spice Souk, with fantastic spices and scenic Dubai Creek.
In Summary:
From desert camping under starry skies to dancing the night away at lively clubs, Dubai comes alive after dark. Follow this insider’s guide to magical nights in the cosmopolitan desert oasis, from glitzy malls and shows to moonlit cruises and world-class dining. When the sun sets over the Arabian Gulf, Dubai’s glittering skyline beckons you to discover an exciting nocturnal world of cultural wonders and sensory delights.
This is a post by Guest Contributor Kamila
About the Author: Kamila is a former flight attendant and founder of Expat in Canada. She worked and lived in Dubai for over 3 years prior to moving to Canada. On her blog, she shares useful tips for life and travel in Canada.
