7 Non-Touristy Experiences in Dubai
Dubai has no shortage of amazing tourist attractions to check out, from the tallest building in the world to the historical markets, this city is a true travel hub. However, there are some incredible experiences that visitors won’t find in their travel guides, but that definitely should be done. Take the road less travelled and check out all this Emirate has to offer.
Dubai Opera
This jaw-dropping construction can be seen when driving down Downtown, but few tourists actually take the time to buy tickets and attend the shows. The Dubai Opera opened in August 2016 and has already brought some of the biggest musicals and operas in the globe to town, such as Les Miserables, La Boheme and CATS. Other than high-quality shows, the building itself is a work of art. A night at the opera is a great opportunity to get dressed up and feel culturally enriched while visiting Dubai.
Dubai Opera, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, +971 4 440 8888
1. Meydan Hotel
Hotel
2. Alserkal Avenue
Art Gallery, Theater
Dubai Brunches
Dubai is famous for its brunch scene, and although residents will spend their entire Fridays having brunch, tourists don’t seem to be very aware of all the experiences on offer. On Fridays, and sometimes Saturdays, restaurants offer popular set-menu, all-you-can-eat/drink brunches. Some of the best in the city are at Ewaan at the Palace Downtown, Coya at the Four Seasons in Jumeirah and Nobu at Atlantis in The Palm Jumeirah.
Ewaan, Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, +971 4 428 7888
Coya, Restaurant Village Four Seasons Resort Jumeirah Beach Road, +971 4 316 9600
Nobu, Ground Level, The Avenues, Atlantis The Palm, Palm Jumeirah, +971 4 426 0760
3. BOXPARK
Park, Shop
This place truly is Dubai residents’ little secret. BOX PARK is an outdoor mall with several cool restaurants and trendy shops, located on Al Wasl Road. Perhaps the coolest aspect is that all outlets look like massive shipping containers. The containers are super colorful and are a great place to spend some time, window shop and take some unique pictures.
BOXPARK, 433 Al Wasl Rd, +971 4 317 3999
4. Skydive Dubai
Amusement Park
Beach Clubs
As Dubai is sunny year-round it’s not surprising that the beach clubs are always crowded. However, this seems to be an experience that only residents indulge in. Hitting up some of the city’s beach clubs — like Zero Gravity, Nikki Beach, Cove Beach and Blue Marlin — can be a great way to enjoy the sun, check out the local party scene and meet residents. Most of these allow walk-ins, but those looking for the real Dubai experience can get a table (for a price).
Zero Gravity Beach Club, Dubai Marina, Al Sufouh Road, +971 4 399 0009
Nikki Beach, Pearl Jumeirah, +9714 376 6162
Cove Beach, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, +971 800 2683
Blue Marlin Ibiza UAE,Golden Tulip Al Jazira Hotels and Resort, +971 56 113 3400
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