There are ups and downs to having visitors in town.

The excitement when tickets are booked, the fun in prepping all the fun stuff you’ll do, running all over town trying to show them the best of what Dubai has to offer, and then ultimately, the come-down when they leave.

We’ve all been there before and we’ll be there again…

But what are truly the best things to do when you’ve got visitors in town? You voted and the results are in….

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10. The Museum Of Illusions

70 quirky illusions, a couple of hours here is an absolute blast, and probably not the first place you’d think of when you’ve got visitors in town. Plus, it’s conveniently located in the Al Seef, so it’s two-birds-one-stone type day out.

More info here.

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9. A visit to the Arabian tea house

A protected indoor eatery that’s covered in so much greenery that you nearly feel like you’re eating outside (but you’re not, which is key during Dubai summer). A tea house that’s popular with locals and tourists alike, the food, friendly staff, and cute decor are just some of the reasons this spot is packed out every day of the week.

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8. A walk through Al Fahidi District

This historical neighbourhood was the birthplace of the city, so where better to learn about the history of Dubai. Immerse yourself in the traditional architecture, check out Al Shindagha Museum or learn more about Emirati culture at Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Center for Cultural Understanding.

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7. Take an abra ride through the Madinat Jumeirah waterways

Part Venetian/Part Arabian-style, the Souk Madinat is purposefully built mix of restaurants and bars, connected by looping waterways. With views of the Burj Al Arab and a mix of casual to fine-dining restaurants, the Madinat continues to attract hordes of visitors.

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6. Check out the Burj Khalifa

Yes, it’s gigantic, but there’s something that’s so clean, and simply beautiful about the Burj Khalifa. Especially at night. Watch the Dubai Fountains, take a stroll along the lakes and and marvel at the world’s tallest building.

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5. Desert Safari

An excursion in the desert, (you’ll find plenty of companies that offer trips for various budgets) usually involves some dune-bashing through the desert, traditional dancing, catching the sunset in the dunes (an incredible experience in itself) and a Middle Eastern buffet in some bedouin-inspired tents. Dreamy!

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4. An evening picnic at Kite Beach

More open the elements than JBR  beach, this is a brilliant spot to enjoy a picnic. On a windy day you’ll spot kitesurfers among the waves, and lots of people trying their hand at paddleboarding. There are plenty of food truck options, sunbeds and activities to keep the little ones entertained.

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3. The Lovin Dubai Cruise

Biased… butttt The Lovin Dubai Cruise is brilliant value for what it is: A four-hour mega-cruise that departs from Dubai Marina and takes you out past Bluewaters, and beyond to the Burj Al Arab.

And mega is no understatement; this is the largest commercial yacht in Dubai, featuring a pool, a cinema, a nightclub, a top deck with plenty of space, a live BBQ, entertainment and full-buffet provided by the Westin. For a Saturday afternoon treat, this is a no-brainer!

Book it in here.

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2. Ravis

Ravis is a cult-favourite, Pakistani owned reato but with a menu that features both Pakistani and Indian food. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better meal at this price anywhere else in town.

Simple food, done well.

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1. An abra ride across Dubai Creek at sunset

Dubai Creek views, a boat trip, Old Dubai and all for just AED1. ‘Nuff said.

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