There’s More to Dubai Than the All-Inclusive Experience!

• Sky View: Instead of ascending up the Burj Khalifa, opt for Sky View. It is a building close by, which will allow you to see the Dubai skyline, as well as the tallest building in the world. Go at 6:00 pm to enjoy the sunset.

• Atlantis Aquaventure: Located inside the Atlantis The Palm Hotel, the world’s largest waterpark is a must-do when visiting Dubai. Hotel guests can enjoy the park complementary with their stay, visitors can buy a day pass starting from AED 320 pp.

• Dubai Mall: The world’s largest mall, as you can expect, has pretty much everything you can think of. Shops, restaurants, an aquarium and even an ice rink, the Dubai Mall is a destination in itself. It is very easy to get to via taxi.

• Saturday Brunch: As mentioned in my Understanding the Dubai Definition of the Word “Brunch" guide, Saturday brunch is a large part of the culture. There are various options, most of them located inside of five-star hotels. I went to Zenzi Beach, inside the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray hotel on the palm, which I would highly recommend.

• Aura Skypool: The world's highest 360° infinity pool, this is the best place to relax and take in the views of Dubai. Grab a bite to eat or even take a yoga class. A whole day pass starts at AED 675 pp.

• Charter a Yacht for the Day: Head to Dubai Marina and charter a yacht for the day. This experience is the perfect way to enjoy the Dubai heat and take a dip in the Persian Gulf. There are many providers which you can find online.

• Global Village: A site that has themed pavilions from all over the world. Experience different world cultures and cuisines, all in one convenient location! Tickets start from AED 22.50 pp.

• One&Only Royal Mirage Day Pass: If you are not staying in a large hotel with pool facilities, getting a day pass for the One&Only Royal Mirage allows you to experience that luxury for the day! Tickets start from AED 350 pp.

Day trip

Hatta: An hour and a half drive from Downtown Dubai on the Oman border is Hatta, a place where you can do loads of different activities. From mountain biking to hiking, kayaking to horse riding, the range of activities in this stunning location is a worthwhile day trip from Dubai.

• Hakkasan: Located inside Atlantis The Palm Hotel, this restaurant offers fresh, authentic Chinese dishes, such as Peking duck and stir fry chicken.

• Fi’lia: At the top of the SLS building in Downtown Dubai is this authentic Italian restaurant. Fi'lia offers many dishes and is accompanied by skyline views of Dubai. Go in the evening to experience the breathtaking views at night.

• Ida Bakery: Situated near the Dubai Mall, Ida is a minimalistic, bohemian style cafe that offers western brunch dishes. Come here for some coffee and breakfast, or just to grab a pastry to go.

• Zenzi Beach: As mentioned above, Zenzi Beach is the best place to experience a Dubai Brunch. As well as this, this South American inspired restaurant offers a la carte dining aside from its Saturday brunch set menu.

• Marasi Coffee House: A modern deli cafe that is a part of the DAMAC Maison Prive building. Their coffee is great, as well as their club sandwich. Be sure to support this new independent cafe.

• The Farm: Situated in the Al Barari neighborhood, about a 25 minute drive away from Downtown Dubai is this healthy eatery. Escape the heat with its botanical surroundings.

• Pai Thai: Inside the Jumeirah Al Qasr is an amazing Thai restaurant surrounded by waterways. You can experience Dubai culture while indulging in some authentic Thai dishes.

• URLA: Right opposite the Burj Khalifa is URLA, a seafood lovers paradise. Inspired by Aegean dishes, this stylish spot is a great way to relax and try some dishes from its extensive menu.