In an activity mode and thinking to plan the perfect holiday for your family, an adventure solo trip! What is better than visiting Dubai? Dubai is among the most exciting destinations in the world. In your next international getaway, exploring the best things to do in Dubai 2026 should be at the top of your traveling list.
Whether you are traveling from South Africa, Turkey, the USA, the UK, or Canada, Dubai never disappoints. The things here are designed for every type of traveller. If you are planning a trip and want to know what things to do in Dubai as an international traveller, this Dubai travel guide 2026 helps you to plan your perfect Dubai journey.
What is the best time to visit Dubai in 2026?
The best time to visit Dubai from South Africa, Turkey, the USA, the UK, or Canada depends on your interests and preferences. But according to the weather, activities, and budget, the time between November and March is perfect.
The weather in these months remains pleasant. So, you can easily take part in outdoor activities and attend cultural celebrations. Also, Dubai hosts a lot of festivals in these months, which can enhance your travel experience. So, just pack your bag, apply for Dubai visa from Turkey, the UK, or the USA, and enjoy your Dubai adventure.
Top 10 Dubai Places to visit 2026: Turkey, UK, USA, Canada, & South Africa
1. Panoramic View of Dubai from Burj Khalifa
No visit to Dubai is complete without seeing the Burj Khalifa, also one of the top 10 things to do in Dubai as an international traveller. The tallest building in the world, which offers a panoramic view of Dubai’s skyline, desert, and especially during sunset from the 124th, 125th, and 148th floors.
Also most visited Dubai tourist attractions 2026. In 2026, you can enjoy upgraded observation decks with interactive displays.
2. Luxurious Shopping at Dubai Mall
Shopaholic people can not go back to their country without shopping in the Dubai Mall. Beyond a shopping destination, it features expanded entertainment zones (Dubai Aquarium, indoor VR parks, and themed cafes) and family-friendly attractions. If you are traveling from Canada, add this place to your things to do in Dubai 2026 list.
Shopping lovers will find Chanel, Dior, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, and Parada brands in accessories, and Cartier, Rolex, Tiffany & Co., etc. in jewelry brands.
3. Discover Old Dubai
To truly understand the soul of Dubai, exploring Al Fahidi Historical District must be one of the best things to do in Dubai 2026 travel itinerary. The Narrow alleyways, wind-tower architecture, museums, and cultural centres offer true Emirati cultural roots.
Traditional Emirati hospitality, Arabic coffee, and art exhibitions create a meaningful cultural experience. This area offers a calm contrast to the modern skyline and is an essential stop in any Dubai travel guide 2026.
4. Enjoy a Luxury Desert Safari
Booking a desert safari in Dubai is one of the best things to do in Dubai 2026 for adventure travellers. In 2026, after the upgrade, international travellers can choose eco-friendly safaris, luxury desert lodges, and private cultural evenings. Some Dubai activities 2026 include dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and stargazing under clear desert skies.
For South African travellers who appreciate nature and adventure, need a Dubai visa from South Africa to open this gateway.
5. Explore Jumeirah Beach and Dubai Marina
Dubai’s coastline is ideal for relaxation for couples and families. And Jumeirah Beach offers clear waters, scenic walking paths, and adorable views of the Burj Al Arab. Beyond families and couples, these places are best for solo travellers too.
Meanwhile, taking yacht cruises at Dubai Marina, cafés, and evening promenades must be among the best things to do in Dubai 2026.
6. Visit the Museum of the Future
The Museum of the Future stands as one of the most innovative Dubai tourist attractions 2026. It explores technology, sustainability, artificial intelligence, and human potential through immersive exhibitions.
Turkish visitors with an interest in science, architecture, and innovation will find this museum both inspiring and educational. Its futuristic design has already become one of Dubai’s most photographed landmarks.
7. Take a Traditional Abra Ride on Dubai Creek
An abra ride across Dubai Creek is one of the simplest yet most authentic experiences in the city for first-time international travellers. This short boat journey connects Deira and Bur Dubai, offering views of traditional markets, mosques, and historic buildings.
It’s an affordable, cultural activity that allows travellers to see daily life in Dubai from a different perspective.
8. Shop at Gold and Spice Souks
For international travellers who enjoy bargaining and traditional markets, the Gold Souk and Spice Souk are must-visit spots in Dubai. The vibrant stalls, aromatic spices, handcrafted jewellery, and textiles reflect Dubai’s trading heritage.
Both markets are ideal for buying souvenirs and gifts for your loved ones, is one of the best things to do in Dubai 2026.
9. Taste Emirati Cuisine in 2026
Foodies or food bloggers have a very good option to give their taste buds a new taste in Dubai. This country offers varieties of flavours from across the world. These some traditional foods you can try here;
- AI Machboos (Spice rice with meat)
- AI Harees (slow-cooked wheat and meat)
- Luqaimat ( sweet dumplings)
- Ghuzi (roasted lamb)
- Balaleet ( sweet vermicelli)
Tasting these things is one of the most enjoyable things to do in Dubai 2026 for all food lovers.
10. Enjoy Theme Parks For Family Fun
Dubai always remains a family-friendly destination with world-class theme parks such as
- IMG Worlds of Adventure
- Aquaventure Waterpark
- Motiongate
- Legoland Dubai
- Wild Wadi Dubai
By 2026, these attractions feature new rides, interactive zones, and seasonal events. So, add these parks to your things to do in Dubai 2026 list during your Dubai trip.
Final Thought
In conclusion, as a first-time international traveler, watching Burj Khalifa, Shopping in Dubai Mall, doing desert safaris, visiting mosques, exploring museums, etc., must be in your things to do in Dubai 2026 list. Dubai’s safety, hospitality, and accessibility make it a perfect destination for short-term holidays in 2026 for international travelers.
As a first-time traveler from the UK, USA, Canada, South Africa, etc you just have to apply for Dubai visa from UK, or apply for Dubai visa from Canada, or South Africa, or Turkey.
For fast visa services, minimal documents, direct visa through email in 48-72 hours, and no embassy visits, UAE VISA TRAVEL is your best visa agency choice. Just Apply & Get Your Visa Expressly.
FAQ’s
5 Best things to do in Dubai for first-time travelers;
– Explore Burj Khalifa
– Shopping in Dubai Mall
– Enjoy Desert Safaris
– Visit Cultural Mosques
– Trip to Jumeirah Beach
Yes, Dubai is going to introduce new museums, innovative beaches, upgraded smart city, gamezones and water parks. Whether you are from the USA, Turkey, South Africa, the UK, or Canada, this city will not disappoint you; you will come away with a lot of memories.
A 5 to 7-day trip from South Africa to Dubai is ideal to explore the major and popular Dubai tourist attractions 2026. You can enjoy all the places calmly and collect the memories.
No, you need a Dubai Tourist visa from USA to explore this city or attend any festival. For fast visa processing, you can apply at UAE VISA TRAVEL, a reputed and trusted visa agency in the USA. Additionally, you do not have to visit the visa centre, you can get your visa online directly in your email.