So you wake up, ready to conquer the day in the shimmering desert oasis of Dubai, only to be greeted by the pitter-patter of raindrops against your window.
While rain in Dubai might be about as common as spotting a unicorn trotting down Sheikh Zayed Road, fret not!
There’s no need to drown your sorrows in a sea of shawarma wrappers. We’ve got the inside scoop on the juiciest indoor activities to keep you entertained when the heavens decide to open up and shower the city with some unexpected love.
Ski Dubai
Tucked in Dubai Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai flaunts the globe's third largest indoor ski slope. With 6,000 tons of snow, enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and freestyle zones. Encounter Snow Penguins up close and catch the March of the Penguins, all in one spot!
When: Monday to Friday, 10am - 11pm & Sunday to Saturday, 9am - 12am
Where: Mall of the Emirates Dubai
Contact: 04 409 4000
The Lost Chambers Aquarium
Uncover the ancient ruins of Atlantis and explore underwater mazes teeming with 65,000 marine creatures, from sharks to seahorses. Experience interactive exhibits and Aquatheatre shows for an unforgettable adventure!
When: Daily, 10am - 9pm
Where: Atlantis the Palm
Contact: 04 426 1040
Dubai Frame
Dubai Frame, UAE's cultural gem, frames Old and New Dubai, symbolizing the emirate's evolution. Standing at 150 meters high, it's the world's largest frame to Guinness World Records. Dress respectfully and step into Dubai's past and future!
When: Daily, 9am - 9pm
Where: Zabeel Park
Contact: 800 900
Museum of the Future
Standing proudly along Dubai's iconic Sheikh Zayed Road, the Museum of the Future (MOTF) is a beacon of innovation and imagination. Established by the Dubai Future Foundation and unveiled on February 22, 2022, this extraordinary museum delves into the possibilities of societal evolution through the lens of science and technology.
When: Daily, 9:30am - 8:30pm
Where: Sheikh Zayed Rd - Trade Centre - Trade Centre 2 - Dubai
Contact: 800 2071
Roll DXB
Get your groove on at RollDXB, a retro hangout in Mina Rashid where disco vibes and roller skating unite. From skate jams to roller hockey, it's the ultimate fun spot. With a capacity for 110 skaters and 40 non-skaters, the party never stops!
When: Monday to Thursday, 11 am–11 pm & Saturday to Sunday, 10am - 11pm, Friday, 11am - 12am
Where: Shed 3 Marina Cubes Street - Dubai Maritime City - Port Rashid - Dubai
Contact: 04 238 6206
Time Out Market
At Souk Al Bahar, Time Out Market introduces its unparalleled food hall concept. With a wraparound terrace boasting breathtaking views of the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain, and a vibrant interior filled with local chefs serving signature dishes, it's a dining experience like no other.
When: Monday to Thursday, 12 apm–12 am & Friday, 12 pm–1 am & Saturday, 10 am–1 am & Sunday, 10 am–12 am
Where: Level 3, Souk Al Bahar - Downtown Dubai
Contact: 054 375 2421
Oli Oli
Explore the world of joy at OliOli®, where children's imaginations come to life! With 8 galleries and over 45 interactive exhibits, it's a haven for playful learning. Designed with love by experts worldwide, OliOli® fosters creativity, problem-solving, and family bonding.
When: Monday to Friday, 9am - 6pm & Saturday, 11:30am - 8pm, Sunday, 10am - 7pm
Where: Al Quoz - Al Quoz 1 - Dubai
Contact: 04 702 7300
Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Transport yourself to the charm of an Arabian bazaar at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Dubai's beloved marketplace. Navigate through its labyrinth of stalls, indulging in oud perfumes, jewelry, spices, and more. Enjoy alfresco dining with a view of the iconic Burj Al Arab or glide along the waterways on a traditional gondola for the ultimate experience!
When: Daily, 10am - 11pm
Where: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St - Al Sufouh 1 - Dubai
Contact: 04 366 8888
Sea Lion Point
Dive into a world of wonder at Sea Lion Point, where you can experience the magic of interacting with sea lions in a safe, indoor setting. Through interactive encounters, you'll develop a deeper appreciation for these incredible creatures while learning about their care and conservation efforts.
When: Daily, 9:15am - 6pm
Where: Aquaventure Waterpark, Crescent Rd - The Palm Jumeirah - Dubai
Contact: 04 426 2000
TopGolf
Spanning over 60,000 square feet at Emirates Golf Club, Topgolf Dubai is a three-level entertainment hub featuring interactive golf games, dining, and live music. Whether a golf enthusiast or not, enjoy climate-controlled hitting bays and a variety of amenities with stunning Dubai Marina views. Perfect for gatherings and relaxation.
When: Monday to Friday, 9 am - 2 am & Saturday to Sunday, 10 am - 2 am
Where: Topgolf - Emirates Hills 2 - Dubai
Contact: 04 371 9999
Bowling at Wavehouse
Catch the wave of excitement at Wavehouse, the ultimate destination for fun, food, and family entertainment at Atlantis Dubai. From bowling strikes to arcade thrills and riding the Surf's Up wave, there's endless excitement waiting for you!
When: Daily, 12 pm - 1 am
Where: Atlantis The Palm Hotel, Ground Floor - Crescent Rd - Dubai
Contact: 04 426 2626
Saray Spa Specials
Nourish your body and soul this Ramadan at Saray Spa with exclusive offers designed to elevate your well-being. Immerse yourself in serenity with a 30% discount on Hammam treatments, or indulge in a rejuvenating massage during Wellness Hours from Monday to Wednesday, 10 am – 3 pm, with a special 25% off. Valid throughout the holy month, Saray Spa invites you to unwind, recharge, and embrace the essence of Ramadan.
When: Daily, 9 am - 10 pm
Where: JW Marriott Marquis Hotel Dubai
Contact: 04 414 6754
Movie Day at VOX Cinemas
Experience the ultimate in cinematic delight at VOX Cinemas, boasting the region's most cutting-edge and immersive movie-going experience. Catch the latest blockbusters in unparalleled quality with Max, featuring Dolby Atmos 7.1 surround sound, and the groundbreaking IMAX with Laser, the first of its kind in the Middle East.
Where: Mall of Emirates - Level 2 - Sheikh Zayed Rd - Dubai
Contact: 600 599 905
IMG Worlds of Adventure
Dubai's IMG Worlds of Adventure stands as a premier theme park, featuring Marvel and Cartoon Network favorites in immersive rides across an area larger than 28 football fields. Prepare for action-packed encounters, from live shows with Iron Man to thrilling experiences like the Haunted Hotel and Thor Thunder Spin!
When: Sunday to Thursday, 12 pm - 10 pm & Friday to Saturday, 12 pm - 11 pm
Where: City of Arabia - Dubai
Contact: 04 403 8888
Ibn Battuta Mall
Step into a world of exploration at Ibn Battuta Mall, where shopping, dining, and entertainment intertwine with the tales of a legendary explorer. As Dubai's largest themed shopping destination, it offers an immersive experience that blends history, culture, and excitement in every corner.
When: Sunday to Thursday, 10 am - 10 pm & Friday to Saturday, 10 am - 12 am
Where: Sheikh Zayed Rd - Jebel Ali Village - Dubai
Contact: 04 426 2000
Scenic Dining at The Restaurant, Address Downtown
The Restaurant at Address Downtown offers a culinary experience like no other. With its expansive windows framing captivating views of the Burj Khalifa and the serene hotel gardens, this culinary sanctuary exudes warmth and comfort.
Where: The Restaurant, Address Downtown, Dubai
When: Open every day from 7 am to 2 am
Contact: 44 368 888
Drink the Night Away At Twine’s Happy Hour
From Monday to Thursday, between 4 pm and 8 pm, experience the vibrant energy and convivial atmosphere as you sip on expertly crafted cocktails, sample aromatic grapes, or enjoy a refreshing selection of hops and spirits. Whether you're catching up with friends or unwinding after a long day, Twine promises a delightful experience for all.
When: Monday to Thursday, from 4 pm to 8 pm
Where: Twine, ibis World Trade Centre Dubai
Contact: 56 860 7263
Visit Cirque Du Soleil CRYSTAL's UAE Debut at Etihad Arena
Witness the magic of Cirque Du Soleil CRYSTAL at its UAE debut in Abu Dhabi's Etihad Arena. From April 26th to May 5th, experience an extraordinary fusion of acrobatics and ice skating against the stunning backdrop of Yas Island.
When: April 26th to May 5th 2024
Where: Etihad Arena, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi
Contact: @cirquedusoleil.com
Pamper Yourself with a Spa Escape At Address Downtown
Escape to a sanctuary of comfort and contemplation at The Spa, Address Downtown. With nine treatment rooms, a hammam, steam rooms, and relaxation areas, it promotes a sense of equilibrium through enriching experiences and treatments.
When: 10:00 am to 10:00 pm daily
Where: Sixth Floor, Address Downtown
Contact: 04 436 8750
Feast Around the World at Ewaan’s World’s Collection Night
A tribute to the incredible diversity within Dubai, the World’s Collection brings exceptional dishes from across the globe to your table. With live stations, a seafood bar, a tempting selection of desserts, and international all-time favorites from near and far, complemented by engaging music to set the tone, Fridays at Ewaan are not to be missed.
Where: Palace Downtown, Dubai
When: Every Friday, 6:30 pm to 10:30 pm
Contact: 04 428 7961
Indulge in Thai Temptations at Thiptara's Brunch Extravaganza
Step into the enchanting world of Thai cuisine with Thiptara's Traditional Thai Brunch at Palace Downtown Dubai. Delight your palate with a symphony of flavors featuring authentic Thai dishes meticulously crafted to perfection.
Where: Thiptara, Palace Downtown, Dubai
When: Every Saturday, from 12:30 pm to 3:30 pm
Contact: 04 428 7961
Al Habtoor Polo Resort’s Mouthwatering Sunday Roasts
Experience the epitome of weekend indulgence at Al Habtoor Polo Resort's Horse & Hound. Nestled amidst the lush greenery of Dubai's vibrant polo fields, the resort exudes an atmosphere of serene luxury.
Where: Horse & Hound, Al Habtoor Polo Resort, Dubai
When: Every Sunday from 12 pm to 5 pm
Contact: 04 435 4444
The next time the clouds decide to crash your desert party and rain on your parade, remember that Dubai has more to offer than just golden sands and towering skyscrapers.
From indoor skiing to underwater aquarium adventures, this city knows how to keep the fun flowing, rain or shine. So grab your umbrella, leave your worries at the door, and dive headfirst into a world of indoor excitement. After all, in Dubai, even the rain knows how to make a splash!