Dubai doesn’t slow down for summer — it simply moves indoors, underwater, and after dark. While the temperatures soar, so do the experiences, from world-class spas and immersive museums to rooftop pools and desert safaris designed with the heat in mind. Whether you're chasing thrills, culture, or just somewhere beautifully air-conditioned, here are 15 of the best things to do in Dubai this summer.

1. Platinum Heritage

Don’t rule out the desert just because it’s summer. Platinum Heritage adapts its desert safaris for the season with late-afternoon departures to avoid the intense midday heat. The tours start around 4 PM and run until late evening. Guests ride in air-conditioned vintage Land Rovers through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, spotting local wildlife and experiencing traditional Bedouin culture. The safari includes stops at shaded camps where you can enjoy refreshments and a gourmet dinner under the stars. Prices start at AED 695 per person.

2. Ain Dubai

Ain Dubai, the world’s largest observation wheel, has reopened on Bluewaters Island and operates Monday to Friday: 1 PM to 8 PM, Saturday & Sunday: 11 AM to 9 PM. In summer, the best time to visit is in the evening when temperatures are cooler. Standard tickets start at AED 145 and provide 360-degree views of Dubai’s skyline, the Arabian Gulf, and landmarks like Palm Jumeirah and Burj Khalifa. Each rotation lasts about 38 minutes, giving you plenty of time to take in the scenery. The cabins are air-conditioned, making it a comfortable experience even during the hotter months.

3. Aura Skypool

Situated on the 50th floor of Palm Tower on Palm Jumeirah, Aura Skypool is open daily with two main sessions: morning from 10 PM to 2 PM (AED 250) and afternoon from 3 PM to 7 PM (AED 300). It’s an elegant rooftop pool offering unobstructed views of Dubai Marina and the city skyline. The pool area has shaded seating and cooling breezes, making it a popular summer escape. Expect a relaxed atmosphere with a bar and light bites, perfect for lounging during the cooler parts of the day.

4. Boat trip

Boat hire is available from Dubai Marina, JBR, and Dubai Creek, with flexible summer hours often starting in the late afternoon to avoid the midday heat. Prices typically range from AED 800 per hour for smaller boats up to AED 3,000 per hour for luxury yachts. Many boats offer shaded or air-conditioned areas, making it comfortable to enjoy cruising, swimming, or dining on board. Evening trips, especially at sunset, are highly recommended for cooler temperatures and stunning views.

5. Dubai Bowling Centre

Located in Al Quoz, the Dubai Bowling Centre operates daily from 10 AM until 1 AM, providing plenty of options for day or night play. Games start from at AED 24 per person, which includes shoe rental. The centre features multiple lanes in a fully air-conditioned environment, suitable for families, casual players, or league bowling. There’s a snack bar offering drinks and light food to keep you refreshed between games.

6. Deep Dive Dubai

Deep Dive Dubai in Nad Al Sheba is open from 9 AM to 6 PM and features the world’s deepest diving pool at 60 metres. Introductory dives start at AED 400. The pool features an underwater cityscape to explore, with underwater caves and wrecks, all in crystal-clear, temperature-controlled water. Non-divers can visit the observation deck to watch the action in comfort.

7. Talise Spa at Jumeirah Zabeel Saray

Situated on Palm Jumeirah, the Talise Ottoman Spa is open daily from 9 AM to 9:30 PM. A spa day pass is available for AED 350, with treatments starting around AED 600. Offerings include traditional Turkish hammam rituals, massages, steam rooms, and saunas. The spa is designed with intricate Ottoman-inspired décor and offers a serene, air-conditioned sanctuary—an ideal escape from Dubai’s summer heat while indulging in luxury wellness.

8. Etihad Museum

Located in Jumeirah 1, the Etihad Museum is open daily from 10 AM to 8 PM. Admission is AED 25 for adults and AED 10 for youth. The museum focuses on the UAE’s formation and independence, featuring interactive exhibits, original documents, and multimedia presentations. It’s fully air-conditioned and provides an informative and cultural indoor experience that’s well suited to summer visits.

9. Museum of the Future

Located near Emirates Towers, the Museum of the Future welcomes visitors daily from 9 AM to 9 PM. Tickets are priced from AED 159, with timed entry slots to manage visitor flow. The museum features interactive exhibits focused on innovation, technology, and future possibilities. Fully air-conditioned, it’s a perfect indoor summer activity that combines education with immersive experiences.

10. Infinity des Lumières

Housed in Dubai Mall, Infinity des Lumières is open daily from 10 AM to 5 PM. Entry costs AED 99 and grants unlimited access to immersive digital art exhibitions, featuring works by Van Gogh and other renowned artists. The expansive space showcases constantly evolving visual displays, offering a unique cultural experience for all ages.

11. Wild Wadi Waterpark

Wild Wadi Waterpark is located in Umm Suqeim, right next to the Burj Al Arab. Open daily from 10 AM to 6 PM, the park offers over 30 rides and attractions, including thrilling slides, wave pools, and a lazy river. Entry starts from AED 198 for UAE residents and AED 249 for non-residents, with discounted rates for children and online bookings. It’s a popular family destination with lockers, towel rentals, and food outlets available on-site.

12. At.mosphere Restaurant

At.mosphere Restaurant sits on Level 122 of the Burj Khalifa and offers a fine dining experience with sweeping views of Dubai’s skyline. The restaurant is open daily, serving breakfast, lunch, high tea, and dinner. Minimum spend starts from AED 200 for breakfast and AED 600 for window seating during dinner. The menu features gourmet international cuisine, and reservations are recommended, especially for sunset slots.

13. Dubai Opera

Dubai Opera, located in Downtown Dubai beside the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain, is the city’s premier performing arts venue. The calendar includes operas, ballets, classical concerts, West End musicals, and more. Showtimes vary, and tickets are available online, typically starting from AED 150 depending on the event. The venue’s striking architectural design also makes it a cultural landmark worth visiting.

14. Night Swimming

Night swimming is available at several beaches across Dubai, including Sunset Beach, Kite Beach, and JBR. These beaches are equipped with floodlights and lifeguards, allowing safe swimming from sunset until midnight. Entry is free and the atmosphere is relaxed, attracting both locals and tourists looking to enjoy the sea after dark. Facilities such as changing rooms and showers are available at most locations.

15. La Perle

La Perle is a live acrobatic show held in Al Habtoor City, just off Sheikh Zayed Road. Shows run from Tuesday to Saturday at 6:30 PM and 9:00 PM, each lasting around 90 minutes. Ticket prices start at AED 269 for Silver seats, going up to AED 809 for VIP options that include lounge access and extras. The purpose-built aqua theatre features a 270-degree viewing experience with performers diving into a stage that transforms between water and dry platforms. Expect gravity-defying stunts, motorbike acts, aerial choreography, and dramatic visual effects.