7 Non Tourist Places in Dubai That Everyone Should Visit

Got friends and family in town for the holidays? After they’ve finished visiting the typical tourist places in Dubai, taking selfies with the Burj Khalifa and going on a desert safari, here are some other great non-touristy attractions that show you another side of Dubai…

1. Take an Abra Ride

Hands down one of the best things to do while exploring Old Dubai. The abra rides only costs you AED 1, and the views are stunning! Once you get to the other side, make sure to check out the souk, where you’ll find some interesting trinkets to take back.

2. Walk along the Dubai Canal

Although the Dubai Canal project isn’t fully complete yet, it’s still a beautiful place to go for a walk. There are 3 foot bridges built over the canal, which stretches to Business Bay. Head there around sunset, when the newly-named Tolerance Bridge lights up in various colours.

3. Visit Bastakiya 

Sikka Art Fair isn’t on till March, however Al Fahidi historical district (Bastakiya) is home to some really cool museums, art galleries, street art, and cozy cafes. Walk through the narrow lanes to explore the heritage site, and don’t forget to have some chai at the Arabian Tea House after.

4. Street Art in Karama

If you’re a fan of street art and graffiti, Dubai has some really creative murals all over the city. As much as we love the art at JBR and City Walk, one of our favourite spots to check out Dubai’s funky street art is Karama.

Here are some other great places with awesome street art in the city. 

5. BBQ Donut at Dubai Creek

Fancy dining in a donut? Head to Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club for a super fun BBQ Donut experience, where you sit inside a donut-shaped inflatable and enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner while floating on the creek.

6. Explore Al Quoz

There is so much to check out in Al Quoz, Dubai’s hipster art district. From catching a live improv show at The Courtyard Playhouse, to having awesome Avo on toast at Tom&Serg, to checking out all the weird and wonderful art at Alserkal Avenue’s galleries, to enjoying a Nutella milkshake at Freez – you’ll never want to leave.

7. Have kebabs at Al Ustad (Ostadi)

Al Ustad is one of Dubai’s oldest family-run restaurants, and celebrities from all over the world have dined there! (There’s even a wall full of polaroids to prove it!) Why is it so famous? The kebabs. Tender and juicy, they could possibly be the best kebabs in the city.

Featured image: via Dubai Culture

Still want more? Make sure to check out our Explore section for other great ways to see Dubai, or if you’re trying to find the best tourist attractions, here are 7 must-see landmarks in Dubai…