Dubai Zoo
In Jumeirah, look for the Arabian wolf (no longer found in the wild), the world's only captive breeding colony of Socotra Cormorants & Gordon's Wildcat. Various regional birds of prey & large cats. 10 am-6 pm daily. Closed on Tue. Entrance fees Dhs 2. Ph: 344-0462.
Camel Rides
Many tour operators and hotels also organise camel rides.
Wadi Bashing
These dry beds of streams are scenic marvels. 4wheel drive SUVs are available with or without drivers.
Sand-Skiing
Take a half or full-day safari in the desert. After a tiring desert safari, take in an Arabian barbecue.
Galleria Ice Rink
Galleria shopping complex at the Hyatt Regency. Rates: Dhs 25 per person, per session, including skate hire. Timings: 10am-1.30pm, 2pm-5.30pm and 6pm-9.30pm. Ph: 209-6551
Camel Racing
Camel racing from Oct to Apr (on Thu and Fri) from 8am-2pm at the Nad Al Sheba on the city outskirts.
The Souks
Souks on both sides of the Creek are a must-visit.Bags of spices, incense, and traditional medicinal products stacked in the narrow lanes. In the larger lanes, one can find bargains on gold jewellery. Also house traditional bakeries, textile shops (selling veils and fabrics) and electronic items. The fish souk buzzes in the morning.
Fishing
Fishing is a sport and a commercial activity. Kingfish, jackfish, and bottom-feeding sharks. Fully-equipped boats with crew.
Golf Courses
The Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club, the Emirates Golf Club and the Nad al Sheba Golf and Racing Club. The Nad al Sheba and Dubai Golf Creek & Yacht Club offer night golf. Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club Ph: 295-6000 Nad Al Sheba Ph: 336-3666 Emirates Golf Club Ph: 347-3222
Creekside Leisure
Enjoy a 'Multi-lingual dhow tour in English, German, Arabic and Russian. Dhs35 adult and Dhs20 child. Group rates apply. Opposite the Dubai Municipality. 11:30am, 1:30pm, 3:30pm, 5:30pm &7:30pm daily. Ph: 336-8406 or 050-452-3166.
Horse Riding
Horse riding attracts huge crowds. The Dubai Racing Club at Nad Al Sheba, is where the Dubai World Cup takes place. Other centres are the Dubai Equestrian Centre and Jebel Ali Hotel Riding Stables. Dubai has a riding association for the disabled. Best months Nov-April. Ph: 336-3737
The Creek
Stroll along the Creek, a natural sea-water inlet cutting across the centre of the city. Use the small water taxis and take an hour-long boat trip. Parts of the creek are renovated and the banks have beautifully landscaped gardens. Don't miss the wildlife sanctuary.
Deira Creek Side
Dept of Economic Develop-ment, the Dubai Chamber of Commerce & Etisalat Tower line this part of Dubai. The National Bank of Dubai reflectsthe Creek on its glass & steel exterior.
Al Boom Tourist Village
Has a 2000-seat banquet hall, coffee shop, restaurant & amusement park, an ornamental lake with five cruise boats. Ph: 324-3000
Parks and Gardens
The Jumeirah Beach Park, Dubai Creekside Park, Al Manzar Park and the Mushrif Park. The parks are popular with families and serve as a picnic spot.
Dubai by Air
Take a helicopter tour over the city or city / desert tours in a fixed-wing aircraft. Desert Air Ph: 299-4411. Rate: Dhs250 per person for a 45-minute trip.
Dubai by Sea
Sail the Jumeira coastline with Danat Dubai Cruises. Ph: 351-1117
Dubai Shopping Festival
This annual festival has become a virtual must-visit. Known for its good bargains and promos by several well-known brands, the Shopping Festival has become a major foreign exchange earner for the emirate. It's a good time for tourists since hotels and airlines offer, low rates for those flying to Dubai.
Dubai Summer Surprises
Another tourism initiative taken by the government is Dubai Summer Surprises, which was launched in 1998. Entertainment events and other activities are organised for the entire family during the summer months.
