How to Spend an Evening in Dubai - Top Things to Do on a Fun Evening Out in Dubai

Ranked among the Middle East's most dynamic cities, Dubai is on the bucket list of every globetrotter. Offering holidaymakers the chance to enjoy the best of Arabian culture in a modern setting, Dubai allows tourists the best of both worlds. Whether you are heading to this bustling United Arab Emirates city on business or on a vacation, here are some of the best ways to spend a memorable night out in vibrant Dubai.


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Take in the Views from The Burj Khalifa

There's no better way to kick off a great night out in Dubai than by heading up to the observation deck of the world's tallest structure. The Burj Khalifa may be one of the city's best lookout points by day, but the views are even more magical at night as the entire city is lit up below in a spectacle of sparkling lights. Tipped to be one of the most romantic things to do in Dubai, visitors can enter the Burj Khalifa observation area up until half an hour before midnight to take in the panoramic views.

After-Dark Bus Tour

While most tourist bus tours in major cities take place during the daylight hours, Dubai's Big Bus tour takes the city by storm after dark. Considered one of the best ways to hit the cultural landmarks and historical highlights in Dubai, this 2.5-hour excursion takes visitors to Dubai's finest spots. The guided tour also lets visitors learn more about the city and its largest buildings and iconic points of interest so that they are not aimlessly wandering around the desert city after sundown. The advantage of taking part in a nighttime Big Bus tour is that one can avoid the large crowds and the sweltering heat of the midday sun.

Discover the Underwater Zoo

Those based at Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai or any of the other resorts and top luxury hotels in Dubai must also spend time at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo in the evening. Boasting a ten-million-litre water tank that houses a whopping 400 shark and manta ray varieties, this family-friendly highlight is especially breathtaking when it is illuminated for night-time tours. Home to penguins, otters, crocodiles and other magnificent creatures, visitors can also take part in feeding sessions or choose packages that allow one to dive with sharks and come face to face with the ocean's finest marine beasts.

Tour the Dubai Global Village

Culture buffs on the lookout for an engaging point of interest that lets one shop, wine, dine and learn something all at the same time should pop by the Dubai Global Village. Dubbed a tourist hotspot that doubles as a cultural showcase and an entertainment venue, the Dubai Global Village not only celebrated Emirati history and heritage but also that of 90 countries. Complete with markets, restaurants, architectural highlights and shows based on diverse cultures, the venue is open from the month of October to April each year.

Catch the Dubai Fountain Show

Although the Dubai Fountain Show takes centre stage several times a day, this audio/visual spectacle is one that should be experienced in the veil of night. A dark sky sets the perfect backdrop for the enchantment and somersaulting water jets that are part of the show. Moving rhythmically to the beat of the music, this highly choreographed fountain showpiece attracts hundreds of tourists each evening. In addition to being the biggest performing fountain on the planet, the Dubai Fountain Show is also accessible free of charge.

Camp out Under the Stars

Desert camping in Dubai is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the Bedouin lifestyle first hand. Offering visitors the chance to go wine and dine on traditional Emirati cuisine, most camping tours also include sand boarding and dune bashing sessions.