Dubai: Must-Visit Spots Before the Summer Starts
Many of Dubai’s attractions are open all year round, but some suspend their operations during the summer, reopening in September or October. Therefore, we recommend including them in your itinerary if you’re planning a trip in the next couple of months.
Dubai Safari Park
Dubai’s Safari Park is home to over 3,000 animal species, including tigers, monkeys, Malayan bears, lions, elephants, giraffes, camels, and many others. While the park has not yet gone on its planned holiday, scheduled for the end of May, visitors can observe its inhabitants from the safety of pedestrian bridges and viewing platforms. The Safari Park offers daily exciting feeding shows, one of which is feeding giraffes right from your hands, turning the visit into a real adventure, impressive for both children and adults.
Dubai Miracle Garden
Dubai Miracle Garden is a masterpiece of modern landscape art, spreading over 7 hectares and decorated with floral sculptures from 150 million plants. Visitors can walk through heart-shaped arches, marveling at grandiose floral constructions, like the two-story Emirates A380 airplane, recognized as the largest garden installation by the Guinness World Records in 2016. Miracle Garden also offers a visit to the Smurfs village, walk through flower tunnels, watch light shows, and much more. The floral kingdom of Dubai goes on holiday on April 30 and will reopen its doors with the arrival of autumn.
Dubai Garden Glow
Dubai Garden Glow is an amazing park that impresses with its scale and the brightness of lights. Its territory is divided into several zones, each dedicated to a certain theme. For example, in the underwater world zone, you can see huge glowing jellyfish, and a Jurassic period dinosaur show in Dinosaur Park. All installations here are made of recycled materials, and energy-saving LEDs are used for lighting, making it also environmentally friendly.
Hatta
Hatta is a wonderful place for active recreation in nature. It is located an hour and a half drive from Dubai and is perfect for short weekend trips or day excursions. Hatta attracts tourists with a variety of outdoor activities: from hiking and cycling tours to kayaking, zip-lining, and archery. The season ends in May, so April is the perfect time to visit before the summer arrives and a great period for those who want to spend time in solitude with nature in the tranquil atmosphere of this mountain resort.
What to Explore in Hatta
For fans of active recreation, Hatta Wadi Hub offers various entertainments against the backdrop of stunning mountain landscapes, such as archery, cycling, and kayaking. Besides, in Hatta, you can paraglide, ride mountain bikes on tracks of varying difficulty, or go horseback riding. Hiking enthusiasts can climb to the famous Hatta sign, recently recognized by the Guinness World Records as “Tallest Landmark Sign”, or hike the majestic Hajar Mountains.
For a family picnic, Wadi Hatta Park with its walking routes and scenic views is perfect. Additionally, in Hatta, you can visit the Honeybee Garden and Discovery Center, as well as the Bee Museum to learn interesting facts about these insects, try, or buy fresh honey.
Those who appreciate cultural leisure should visit Hatta Heritage Village. Here you can get acquainted with the traditional way of life in the UAE, explore the history and architecture of the region, stroll through the Al-Sharia palm farm, or watch birds at the pond.
Besides, Dubai is a tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches. Although it is possible to swim in the sea all year round, the period from September to May is considered the most comfortable for beach holidays.
Jumeirah Beach is one of the city’s most popular beaches, famous for its splendid panoramic view of the Persian Gulf, attracting visitors with its lively promenade full of restaurants and cafes. Additionally, you can swim at night here. Kite Beach is best known among kite surfing enthusiasts and water sports activities. La Mer is one of Dubai’s favorite beaches, thanks to its relaxed atmosphere, white beaches, turquoise water, and a multitude of restaurants to suit any taste. Al Sufouh Beach, also known as Black Palace Beach, offers a quieter retreat in seclusion. The magnificent sandy shore, picturesque views of Burj Al Arab, and the tranquil atmosphere make it an ideal place not only for swimming but also for a romantic picnic at sunset.