Dubai dazzles after dark. As the sun sinks below the horizon, the city transforms into a vibrant tapestry of light and color. From glitzy attractions to atmospheric souks, Dubai offers visitors an enchanting experience once the moon rises over the desert sky.
When planning your Dubai itinerary, be sure to leave room for nighttime adventures. The sultry Arabian nights bring out a whole different side of Dubai that is not to be missed.
By experiencing the emirate after hours, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the innovative spirit and cultural fusion that makes this destination so dynamic.
As daylight fades, Dubai is reinvigorated with revelry and spectacle. Architectural marvels glow neon while fountains dance to Arabic pop songs.
Locals and expats alike throng the streets to shop, dine and people watch in this nocturnal playground. From the lively souks of Deira to the posh hotels of the Palm, the night ushers in Dubai’s chance to show off.
With such an abundance of evening attractions, having a game plan is key to making the most of your Dubai visit. Do you want to feast on street food at a bustling night market?
Sip cocktails on an infinity pool overlooking the glittering skyline? Or watch belly dancers and tanoura performers at a Bedouin-style camp? Dubai truly offers something for everyone after hours. Plotting your nights out ahead of time ensures you can revel to your heart’s content.
Dubai Fountain Lake Ride
The Dubai Fountain is undoubtedly one of the top attractions to visit at night during your stay in Dubai. As the sun sets and the lights come on, the fountain springs to life with a colorful display of dancing waters, laser lights, and booming music. It’s a truly mesmerizing sight that draws crowds every evening.
The fountain lies at the base of the iconic Burj Khalifa and is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. Designed by WET Design, the creators of the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas, it features over 6,600 lights and 25 color projectors that illuminate the fountain’s impressive 275-meter long cascade.
As the fountain sways and pulses to popular Arabic, Classical, and world music, two new songs are added to its repertoire every month to keep the experience fresh and exciting.
The best way to enjoy the Dubai Fountain is by taking a lake ride on one of the many abra boats available. The 30-minute cruise takes you right up to the fountain, allowing you to witness the spectacular sight from up-close as the water seems to dance before your eyes.
As your abra gently glides through the lake, you also get to admire Dubai’s astonishing skyline glowing under the night sky, with the glittering Burj Khalifa at its heart. It makes for an unforgettably romantic evening out.
- Fountain Timings: 06:00 pm to 11:00 pm (Daily)
- Location: The Dubai Fountain
- Prices: AED 65
Overnight Safari
An overnight desert safari is a popular activity for visitors looking to experience both daytime and nighttime adventures in Dubai. These safaris offer a fun mix of cultural experiences, thrilling activities, and natural scenery that showcases the emirate’s desert landscapes.
Delicious dinner and cultural performances
Most overnight safari packages include a lavish buffet dinner out in the desert, often with Middle Eastern dishes like hummus, baba ghanoush, mixed grills, and more.
You can lounge on colorful carpets and cushions while enjoying the food. Many tours also incorporate live entertainment like Tanoura dancing or Arabic music to immerse you in local culture.
Exciting dune bashing and desert activities
In addition to cultural experiences, overnight safaris let you take part in desert activities you can’t easily do elsewhere. Popular options are dune bashing in 4×4 vehicles, riding camels or ATV quad bikes through the sand dunes, sandboarding, trying archery or falconry, and watching mesmerizing Tanoura performances under the stars.
Overnight camping and stargazing
Some overnight desert safari packages include sleeping in luxury camp accommodations, like personal tents with comfortable beds, pillows, linens, and even Wi-Fi access.
You can relax by a campfire, smoke fruit-flavored shisha, and do some incredible stargazing in the clear night skies above the Dubai desert. With many tour options available, you’re sure to find a package that fits your interests and budget.
- Timings: Evening pick up, next morning drop off
- Location:Â Individual companies have different spots
Al Barsha Night Market
Nestled in the heart of the Al Barsha neighborhood, the Al Barsha Night Market offers a charming weekly destination for Dubai residents and visitors alike. Every Saturday evening, this quaint market comes alive from 5 pm to midnight, transforming an ordinary park into a vibrant bazaar brimming with culture and community.
Local Vendors and Artisans
What makes the Al Barsha Night Market so special is its focus on local vendors and artisans. As you meander through the stalls, you’ll discover handmade crafts, artwork, clothing, and more from creative entrepreneurs across Dubai. Support small businesses while finding unique souvenirs and gifts to take home.
Live Entertainment and Activities
In addition to shopping, the weekly market features live musical performances on an outdoor stage. Visitors can enjoy free fitness classes like yoga and Zumba under the stars.
Face painting and balloon art keep little ones entertained. With something for all ages, it’s no wonder this is one of Dubai’s most family-friendly nightlife destinations.
Community Gathering Place
At its heart, the Al Barsha Night Market is a community gathering place for residents. Wander through the stalls while catching up with neighbors and friends.
Enjoy a picnic on the grass while soaking in the festive ambience. As Saturday nights in Dubai go, it doesn’t get much more local and laidback than this.
- Day & Timing: Saturdays from 05:00 pm to 12:00 am
- Location: Al Barsha Pond Park, Al Barsha, Dubai
Cruises at Dubai Canal
The Dubai Canal has quickly become one of the most popular places to visit at night in Dubai. As the sun sets, the canal comes alive with various cruise tours that allow you to take in the glittering city skyline from the water. There are several cruise options to choose from:
Yacht Cruises
For a luxurious evening, book a private yacht cruise along the canal. These tours typically include fine dining and an open bar as you gently sail past Dubai’s dazzling architecture illuminated at night. Some boats even have pools and hot tubs on board!
Abra Rides
If you’re looking for a more affordable way to see the canal, hop aboard one of Dubai’s traditional abras. These small wooden boats offer an intimate experience to view the sights along the waterfront. Abra tours usually last 30-45 minutes.
Dhow Cruises
You can’t visit Dubai without going on a romantic dhow cruise. These elegant wooden ships have plied Dubai’s waters for centuries. Many dhows feature live entertainment as you dine under the stars on regional cuisine. It’s a quintessential Dubai experience.
No matter which cruise you choose, you’ll be treated to dazzling views of Dubai’s glittering skyscrapers from a unique vantage point on the water. Tour companies offer many services and pricing levels to meet different needs and budgets.
- Timings: Tours can start from 06.30 pm to 09:30 pm
- Location: Dubai Canal
Global Village
The annual Global Village event in Dubai has become a renowned attraction that draws visitors from around the world. Running from October through April each year, Global Village offers an exciting lineup of culture, cuisine, entertainment and shopping opportunities from nearly 80 participating countries.
A World of Cultures and Cuisines
With pavilions representing cultures from across the globe, Global Village allows visitors to experience the sights, sounds, art, and cuisine of different regions without even needing a passport.
Each country’s pavilion offers authentic handicrafts, cultural performances, native delicacies, and more for guests to discover.
Vibrant Nightlife
Global Village truly comes alive at night, making it one of the top destinations in Dubai after dark. When the sun goes down, the lights, music, and energy amplify across the park’s thoroughfares.
The atmosphere resembles a lively street food carnival, with aromas of global cuisines filling the air and cultural shows dazzling crowds at the main stage.
Contact Details
Global Village is open daily from 4 PM to 12 AM during the season. Entrance tickets start from AED 15 per person. Private VIP Packages with exclusive access, meals and shows are also available.
- Location: Exit 37, E311 Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road, Dubai
- Contact: +971-4-362-4114
- Website: www.globalvillage.ae
Conclusion
After exploring some of Dubai’s top nighttime destinations, it’s clear this glittering metropolis has so much to offer once the sun goes down. From serene lake rides to vibrant global bazaars, Dubai transforms into a magical wonderland after dark.
With these mesmerizing experiences in mind, be sure to plan your Dubai itinerary around these after-dark attractions. Wander through sprawling bazaars, sail along the sparkling canal, or camp in the starry desert – the magic awaits! Don’t miss out on making the most of your Dubai trip by experiencing the city at night.
