15 things to do in Dubai

1. Book a shared sunset yacht cruise

Nothing beats the water in Dubai, and a shared sunset cruise lets you actually enjoy it. On a Bonjour Cruise departure the crew is warm and attentive, and you can swim, sunbathe and dance without a second thought. Come solo and reserve a single seat, or charter the whole yacht for your group.

2. Spend a morning at a spa

Dubai has a strong spa and hammam culture. Book a traditional Moroccan hammam or a modern day spa for a slow, phone-free reset before the rest of your plans.

3. Watch the sunset over the Marina

Golden hour along Dubai Marina and JBR is the city at its most beautiful. Walk the promenade, or better, see it from the sea on a sunset brunch cruise as the skyline turns amber.

4. Explore the old souks of Deira

Cross the creek by abra and lose an afternoon in the gold, spice and textile souks. Bargaining is expected and half the fun.

5. Take a desert escape

A dune drive, camels and dinner under the stars is the classic Dubai contrast to the city. Many operators offer relaxed, family-friendly private tours.

6. Have a proper Friday brunch

Brunch is a Dubai institution. For a private, alcohol-free version with your friends, a halal brunch at sea is hard to beat.

7. Try a quiet weekday session at a beach club

Several beach clubs run relaxed weekday sessions with discounted access and a calmer crowd. Bring sunscreen and stay for the sunset.

8. Celebrate a big moment

Birthdays, engagements and reunions all shine in Dubai. A halal celebration cruise on a private yacht keeps it joyful and completely yours.

9. See the city from up high

The observation decks and the world's tallest buildings are worth doing once, ideally at sunset to skip the midday haze.

10. Book a henna and skincare afternoon

Henna artistry paired with a facial or massage is a beautiful way to spend a slow day. Our Henna and Spa at Sea brings both onto the water.

11. Visit a mosque and learn the history

Guided visits to Dubai's mosques and cultural centres are open to everyone and a genuinely warm way to understand the region.

12. Find the art district

Alserkal Avenue and the galleries around it are Dubai's creative heart, with cafes, exhibitions and independent shops.

13. Plan a creator or photo day

If you make content, Dubai is a backdrop machine. A yacht photoshoot with a professional photographer gives you a full library of images in one afternoon.

14. Swim, really swim

Between the beach clubs, hotel pools and the open sea, Dubai is made for swimming. On a private charter, you get the sea largely to yourself.

15. Give yourself a slow evening

Finish with something quiet: a walk, tea on a terrace, or simply the calm after a day on the water. Dubai rewards you for slowing down.

The easiest one to book? A seat on the next sunset cruise. See the upcoming departures and reserve yours, or request a private charter for your group.