For things to do after dinner in Dubai, visitors will find themselves a little spoilt for choice thanks to the sheer volume of options on offer.
Much of the city has been designed as a holidaymaker’s playground, with purpose-built bars, lavish theme parks, cutting-edge nightclubs, and glamorous beachfront destinations providing just some of the city’s many delights.
Through this guide, we digest some of the coolest ways to work off your meal in this action-packed Emirate. It includes ideas on where to go in Dubai at night – from admiring the view from the world’s tallest building to gently cruising along Dubai creek, downhill skiing to fist-pumping dance scenes.
Where to Go at Night?
Burj Khalifa Viewpoint
Burj Khalifa viewpoint offers jaw-dropping views of Dubai’s futuristic landscape, helping to make it one of the city’s most visited landmarks. Towering over the skyline at a height of 830 meters, the imposing presence of the world’s tallest building is unmissable when visiting Dubai.
As well as being one of the city’s most photogenic landmarks, the views from the observation deck on the Burj Khalifa’s 120th floor make it thoroughly deserving of an up-close visit. The vistas are mesmerizing throughout the day, though sunset and nighttime visits offer a special kind of magic. Make sure to book tickets in advance, as they’re more expensive for walk-ins.
Location: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Open: Daily from 8.30 am to 10 pm
Phone: +971 (0)48 888 888
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Dubai dhow cruises
Dubai dhow cruises are a charming way to enjoy the city’s distinctive sights. The traditional Arabian boats make for a captivating sight as they elegantly sail across the waters of Dubai Creek, and hopping on board for a relaxing cruise provides a truly memorable experience.
The view of Dubai’s evening skyline from the water is wonderfully atmospheric, with illuminated souk markets and glittering skyscrapers drifting by as the dhow gracefully navigates the picturesque route. Numerous operators offer tours on various vessels, from modest dhows to luxury yachts. Many of the cruises include live music, entertainments, guides and buffets, with some also providing transfer to and from hotels.
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Marina
Dubai Marina is a luxurious neighbourhood packed with high-end shops, fancy bars, and pop-up market stalls. Taking a stroll along the marina’s immaculate promenade is a great way to walk off a hearty dinner, and the waterside path offers some of the best ground-level views of the city.
The area comes alive at night, with the dazzling lights of the city’s skyline magnificently reflected across the shimmering waters. The local shops are an excellent place to hunt for souvenirs, while those looking for a digestif will find plenty of attractive bars in which to quench their post-dinner thirst.
Location: Braih St, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Global Village
Dubai’s Global Village is a vast entertainment complex that magnificently celebrates aspects of the world’s many diverse cultures. Reputed to be the largest leisure, tourism and entertainments project on the planet, the Global Village showcases the products, cuisine, and cultures of more than 80 different countries.
The family-themed site includes a mind-boggling array of shops, eateries, rides, and performances. From Big Ben to the Eiffel Tower, Thai floating markets to the Egyptian Pyramids, the Global Village is the next best thing to an around the world tour. Among the many popular attractions are Ripley’s Believe It Or Not museum, the colorful Celebration Walk, and the fun-filled Children’s Theater.
Location: Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Road and Emirates Road, Exit 37-E311, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Open: Sunday–Wednesday from 4 pm to midnight, Thursday–Saturday from 4 pm to 1 am
Phone: +971 (0)43 624 114
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Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai is an indoor ski facility located inside the Mall of the Emirates. A great place to escape the searing desert heat, the purpose-built Ski Dubai maintains a constant temperature of between -1 and 2 degrees Celsius.
All ages and skill levels are welcome, and lessons are available from the centre’s skilled staff to help you perfect your form as you glide down the pristine slope. Alongside the downhill skiing, the facility boasts a winter park, snow movie theater, and a carefully designed penguin enclosure. Look out for special events held at Ski Dubai, including separate ladies and guys nights offering discounts on food and beverage or free rides at the winter park.
Location: Sheikh Zayed Rd, Al Barsha, Al Barsha 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Open: Sunday–Wednesday from 10 am to 11 pm, Thursday–Saturday from 9 am to midnight
Phone: +971 (0)60 059 9905
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Garden Glow
Dubai Garden Glow is a delightfully colorful theme park incorporating carefully designed light shows and whimsical sculptures. The family-themed attraction – which includes 4 distinct parks – uses energy-saving light bulbs and recycled materials to promote a message of sustainability and environmentally conscious living.
There are over 100 animatronic dinosaurs, animal and plant sculptures, an eco-friendly art park, and all manner of weird and wonderful light-inspired installations to admire after sunset. From illuminated tunnels and optical illusions to giant peacocks and well-dressed frog musicians, Dubai Garden Glow is a great choice for those looking to capture some striking social media snaps.
Location: Zabeel Park, Gate No. 6&7, Neighborhood B, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Open: Sunday–Friday from 4 pm to 10 pm, Saturday from 4 pm to 11 pm
Phone: +971 (0)55 918 8126
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La Mer Beach
La Mer Beach is one of Dubai’s most popular destinations, thanks to its palm-lined beach, bountiful shops, and vibrant entertainment. The area was once a residential neighbourhood with an abundance of luxury homes and villas that led to it being nicknamed the ‘Beverly Hills of Dubai’.
Now developed as an all-encompassing tourist destination, the area surrounding La Mer Beach features upmarket shops and boutiques, market stalls, street art and eclectic bars and eateries. Since La Mer boast such a fine array of restaurants, it’s an excellent spot to enjoy a sunset dinner before whiling away the hours exploring its multitude of holiday-themed evening attractions.
Location: 45 2 A St, Jumeirah, Jumeirah 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Open: Daily from 7 am to midnight
Phone: +971 (0)4 590 5090
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Cavalli Club
Cavalli Club is an opulent destination that offers guests a taste of high life, Dubai style. Adorned with over 350,000 Swarovski crystals and featuring black quartz flooring, the Roberto Cavalli-designed venue appeals to those who enjoy more than a little extravagance on their night out.
Throughout the evening, the soundtrack morphs the sophisticated lounge ambience with hedonistic dance music, and with internationally renowned artists regularly performing alongside Dubai’s most proficient resident DJs. The wide range of tailor-made beverages are mixed by award-winning bartenders and certainly worth indulging in, and – if you’re still peckish after dinner – the Italian/fusion menu is sure to include something to tickle your fancy.
Location: Sheikh Zayed Rd, Trade Center, Trade Center 1, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
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Dubai Astronomy Group
Stargazing with the Dubai Astronomy Group offers you a unique opportunity to behold the dazzling night sky via the unspoilt view from the desert. Depending on weather conditions, you can enjoy crystal-clear views of the constellations while knowledgeable staff guide you for an unforgettable astrological experience.
Set up in the year 2000 to promote the study of astronomy in the Middle East, the organization arranges various tours, talks and workshops, including family-friendly stargazing parties, comet hunting, and space camps. The schedule varies depending on the celestial activity occurring at any given time of the year, so it’s a good idea to contact the Dubai Astronomy Group in advance of travel to check what activities they have planned.
Location: Al Thuraya Astronomy Center, Mushrif Park, Mushrif, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Open: Saturday–Thursday from 1 pm to 9 pm (closed on Sundays)
Phone: +971 (0)42 216 603
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