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Things to do in Dubai Festival City

Our most recommended things to do in Dubai Festival City

Dubai: Helicopter Flight Over The Palm Jumeirah

1. Dubai: Helicopter Flight Over The Palm Jumeirah

Make your stay in Dubai more memorable with a 17-minute helicopter flight over The Palm Jumeirah, and enjoy breathtaking views of the city's sights. Climb aboard your helicopter at the Dubai Police Academy, and look down on the scenic beauty of the Burj Al Arab, built in the form of the sail of a sailing ship, and the only 7-star hotel in the world. Look down on the luxury developments of The Palm Jumeirah, part of the Palm Island project and home to the iconic Atlantis Hotel. Get a closer view of the Burj Khalifa and the city's Business Bay District. Enjoy panoramic views of some of Dubai's record-breaking structures, such as the world's tallest hotel (JW Marriot), Emirates Towers, and Dubai Mall (the largest shopping mall in the world). Return to Mother Earth with memories to last a lifetime.

Dubai: Luxury Canal Dinner Cruise with Optional Transfers

2. Dubai: Luxury Canal Dinner Cruise with Optional Transfers

Experience Dubai from the Dubai Water Canal on a sightseeing dinner cruise. Be transferred to a glass-encased dhow for a delicious buffet and admire landmarks, such as Dubai Festival City Mall and the Burj Khalifa. Get a welcome kahwah (Arabic coffee) on arrival followed by an assortment of chilled refreshments and dates. Then, be escorted to your table to enjoy welcome drinks. Start to feel the gentle sway of the waves and romance of the boat as you set sail. Awaken your senses as you gently cruise down the artificial canal. Experience the city's bustling atmosphere as you pass through the Business Bay area while soothing Arabic music serenades you along the way. Marvel at iconic attractions of the Dubai skyline, such as the Business Bay Bridge, Dubai Festival City Mall, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Water Canal Bridge, JW Marquis Hotel, and Westin Hotel. Indulge yourself with a sumptuous feast of Arabic appetizers, grilled meat, fresh salads, and delicious sweets from Arabia, along with hot beverages. Be mesmerized by the saxophone performance.

Dubai: Burj Khalifa Sunset on an Abra

3. Dubai: Burj Khalifa Sunset on an Abra

Set sail on a tranquil journey along the sparkling Dubai Water Canal aboard a traditional wooden "Abra" boat. Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Dubai's waterways, and take in the breathtaking views of the city's landscapes, a thriving bird sanctuary, and historic dhow yards. As you soak in the warmth of the sun setting behind the mighty Burj Khalifa, let the soothing Arabic music and guided commentary paint a vivid picture of the city's vibrant atmosphere. Unwind, relax, and experience the essence of Dubai in a traditional way. Step back in time, embrace the peaceful ambiance, and marvel at the majestic Burj Khalifa as it illuminates the sky, casting an ethereal glow over the city. After a delightful journey on the water, you'll be returned to your starting point.

New Year's Eve Luxury Canal Dinner Cruise

4. New Year's Eve Luxury Canal Dinner Cruise

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Dubai Water Canal aboard a contemporary glass-enclosed dhow, offering breathtaking views of the city's skyline and the New Year's fireworks display. Savor an Arabic feast while enjoying both indoor and outdoor seating options. Upon arrival, you’ll be escorted to your table and served welcome drinks. Enjoy traditional Arabic coffee, kahwah, along with an assortment of chilled refreshments and dates, setting the stage for an unforgettable evening.  Savor the beauty of the city from the canal waters, as you listen to the soothing sounds of Arabic music and the gentle flip-flap of the waves. Soak up the bustling city atmosphere from a distance or simply relax and indulge in the tranquility of the canal. A feast of Arabic appetizers, grilled meats, fresh salads, and Arabic sweets will be accompanied by hot beverages as you glide along the canal. The highlight of the evening will be a performance by a live saxophonist while you watch the New Year fireworks display of the Burj Khalifa. This New Year’s Eve dinner cruise along Dubai Water Canal is the perfect way to celebrate the arrival of the new year, in style and luxury.

Other Sightseeing Options in Dubai Festival City

Want to discover all there is to do in Dubai Festival City? Click here for a full list.

What people are saying about Dubai Festival City

Overall rating

4.5 / 5

based on 1,079 reviews

Very nice trip. In the end we were only 4 guests and everyone was allowed to get behind the wheel once. The staff took pictures of you on request. The departure time is perfectly coordinated with the sunset. Can be recommended without hesitation.

Enjoyed it take headphones because the audio guide is tiring holding it near your ears a lot of things to see. The gardens are amazing and the other sites are worth seeing take the hop on and off train to see the other three sites.

Great experience- food was good, staff were very helpful and seeing Dubai all lit up was amazing!! The saxophonist was excellent. I would thoroughly recommend this trip!

Good buffet and friendly atmosphere Prefer to be on the upper deck for a better view

Delicious food. Kindly staff. Very good experience.