Dubai’s Unusual Attractions: Go Beyond the Ordinary

by Barbara Yakimchuk

Dubai’s Unusual Attractions: Go Beyond the Ordinary

4 Nov 2024

The typical Dubai experience usually includes skydiving over the Palm, riding buggies in the desert, and strolling through the world’s largest mall. But there are other, more unexpected activities that will give you a fresh perspective on the city, revealing its urban vibe, creativity, and even, surprisingly, its green side.

I really believe that a city truly comes alive through experiences and emotions. So, it is not just about what you see, but how you experience it. Local guides often suggest the same highlights — go up Burj Khalifa, a stroll by Burj Al Arab, or a visit to the Museum of the Future. And while these are great spots, if you are looking for a little extra adventure and something off the path, here is my checklist of what you need to do in Dubai to fall in love with it.

Riding horse in the desert

This might be my absolute favorite spot in Dubai, especially as the weather cools down in winter. The stables are set right in the desert, about a 40-minute drive from the city, and it feels like stepping into an Arabian ranch — because that is exactly what it is!

Before your horse ride, you will wait in the specially designed area with a lot of where parrots, where one that even talks (what an Arabian vibe)! It wanders around entertaining guests, hoping for a sip of their karak tea (which is usually served after the ride).

If you are expecting a half-hour tutorial on horse handling or (even more) someone to lead your horse while you relax and take in the view — I will have to disappoint you. In the UAE, people grow up riding horses, so the most you will get, if it is your first time, is the calm horse.

But this laid-back attitude is what makes the experience so memorable. You will ride out into the desert with just your small group and a couple of guides, surrounded by open landscape. It is an incredible way to connect with nature and soak in the culture — a unique, authentic experience that can’t be recreated anywhere else.

Watching Movies in Alserkal

Alserkal Avenue is the heart of Dubai's art scene, always buzzing with exhibitions, pop ups, and gatherings of creative minds. Located there is Cinema Akil, the first arthouse cinema in the GCC region, offering a fantastic selection of films across all genres. Just last week, during Anime Film Week, they screened beloved works by Hayao Miyazaki and Yôko KunoNobuhiro Yamashita.

Cinema Akil also follows significant global events, and for the upcoming Hong Kong Film Festival week, they will feature some of the festival’s top films. And here is something special: there is a unique “winter” experience. During winter months Cinema Akil usually moves outdoors to The Yard at Alserkal Avenue, where you can enjoy movies under the sky. What could be better — just relax on cushions scattered across the grass and watch your favorite films in this open-air setting.

Instagram: @cinemaakil

Trying skateboarding in Design District Skatepark

Right in the Design District, just 100 metres from the main cafe area where people gather in the evenings to chat over coffee, you will find the Dubai Design District Skatepark. It is located by the waterfront of Dubai Creek, so it is quite breezy in the evenings (which is great if you are doing sports). There is also a basketball court nearby, and overall the area is packed with places to get active — from tables for tennis to climbing walls.

Even if you are not planning to skate, it is fun to take in the urban vibe. But if you feel like trying it yourself, go for it! Skateboarding is a great way to clear your head; you should be focused on every move to ensure that you are balancing and steering the board. Just remember the main skateboarder’s rule: if someone is already in the pool (the area with the obstacles for practicing skateboarding tricks), wait your turn to keep everyone safe.

Instagram: @hardcoreskateparks

Golf in Dubai Creek

The activity itself is not new. But for those who think Dubai is a soulless city filled only with skyscrapers and deserts, golf is a must-do.

Even though the Middle East is not the birthplace of golf (we often associate it more with endless fields in Britain), there are plenty of golf clubs in the UAE, and all of them are set up perfectly. In all of them you will find ideal green lawns (which are constantly watered to maintain their perfection), top-notch equipment, and helpful staff driving around in buggies to ensure your convenience.

UAE hosts high-level professional tournaments, and during the winter months, this truly is one of the best places to play golf. There is even desert golf here, but I recommend choosing something a bit more grounded and signing up ,for example, for Dubai Creek Golf Club. Plus, you can check out Dubai Creek area; some might call it a retirement community, but for me, it is the best neighbourhood in Dubai — super quiet, green, and peaceful.

Instagram: @dubaicreekgolf

Visit latest pop ups

The best way to experience what the city is currently buzzing about is to see the latest pop ups. First, because enjoying some delicious food is a must. And, second, due to high competition, every pop up is always unique, featuring really interesting concepts.

Right now you can check out these two:

25hours Hotel One Central Pop Up — For one week only, a pop up will be set up in the hotel’s courtyard where guests can try hand-pulled noodles. The great part is that you will get to enjoy a lively culinary show, with chefs preparing the noodles right in front of you. The three must-try dishes are Chilli Cucumber, Boiled Wontons, and Biang Biang Noodles.

Hidden — It is a secluded pop up café located in the desert — it is only open during the winter months due to the weather (once, we were really disappointed when we arrived and found it closed!). It has a fantastic abandoned vibe, with a boho atmosphere, cozy campfires, and really delicious coffee. Just be aware that it is only open at sunset, after 4 pm.

Photos: @25hourshoteldubai @hidden_dubai

Missing out on the coolest events in Dubai? We know where you’ll be in November: The Crowd Test Festival — the very first Art and Music Festival by The Sandy Times.

The lineup is incredible: Mainline Magic Orchestra from Spain, Eden Burns from New Zealand, and a lot of your favourite DJs like Hani J, Hassan Alwan, Bazzzuk, and more.

Mark your calendar, snag your tickets, and get ready: November 16, 2024, from 5 PM to 3 AM at Monkey Bar, Dubai.

by Barbara Yakimchuk