While iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah are famous worldwide, there’s a treasure trove of lesser-known attractions in Dubai waiting to be explored. From captivating art galleries to serene oases, we highly recommend adding these hidden gems in Dubai to your bucket list.
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Uncovering Hidden Gems In Dubai
Dubai Coffee Museum
| Where is it? | Villa 44 – Al Hisn St – Al Fahidi. Get Directions |
| How do I get there? | Take the metro to either Faheidi or Bastakia Station |
| What are the opening hours? | Sat-Thu: 9 AM – 5 PM | Closed on Fri |
One of the best hidden gems in Dubai, the Dubai Coffee Museum is situated in the Al Fahidi neighborhood and is a haven for coffee aficionados. Explore the museum’s treasures and displays while savoring the enticing flavor and scent of this well-known traditional beverage. From Ethiopian coffee to traditional Emirati coffee, learn about the origins of the best coffee in the world.
Discover the history of coffee, the many brewing techniques, and the cultural importance of coffee in Emirati society. After the tour, unwind with a hot cup of just-brewed coffee in the little café of the museum to experience the real spirit of Arabian hospitality.
Dubai Miracle Garden
| Where is it? | Street 3 – Al Barsha. Get Directions |
| How do I get there? | Take the Red Line to Mall of the Emirates Station |
| What are the opening hours? | Mon-Fri: 9 AM – 9 PM | November – May |
Get ready to be mesmerized by the Dubai Miracle Garden, a unique oasis bursting with vibrant colors and breathtaking floral displays. Dubai Miracle Garden is home to over 50 million blooming flowers, arranged in enthralling patterns and designs.
Stroll through one of the most visually appealing hidden gems of Dubai, marvel at the larger-than-life floral sculptures, and lose yourself in the awe-inspiring beauty of nature.
Art Galleries In Alserkal Avenue
| Where is it? | 17th St – Al Quoz Industrial Area 1. Get Directions |
| How do I get there? | Take the M1 Line to Onpassive Metro Station |
| What are the opening hours? | Daily, 10 AM – 7 PM |
Dubai’s thriving art scene goes beyond its glittering skyscrapers. Explore the city’s diverse art galleries and immerse yourself in a world of creativity and expression. Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz is a must-visit hidden gem in Dubai, with its cluster of contemporary art spaces showcasing cutting-edge works from local and international artists.
From thought-provoking installations to captivating exhibitions, these galleries offer a unique glimpse into Dubai’s artistic pulse.
Alserkal Avenue is an innovative arts and cultural zone that has converted ancient warehouses into creative spaces while exploring the lively neighborhood of Al Quoz. This concentration of modern art galleries, design studios, and performance venues demonstrates Dubai’s dedication to promoting innovation.
Explore up-and-coming artists, take in riveting exhibitions, and become one with the vibrant spirit that permeates this artistic haven.
Iranian Mosque
| Where is it? | 63 30C St – Jumeirah. Get Directions |
| How do I get there? | Take Bus 7 from Business Bay Metro Station Landside to Iranian Hospital Bus Stop |
| What are the opening hours? | Daily, 8:30 AM – 10:30 AM and 4:30 PM – 6:30 PM |
The Iranian Mosque, often referred to as the Imam Hussein Mosque, is perfect to escape the busy downtown. This well-kept secret in the Al Bastakiya neighborhood, located between Dubai Creek and Bur Dubai, features gorgeous Persian-inspired buildings embellished with fine tilework and calligraphy.
Enter to soak in a peaceful and spiritual ambiance. A trip to the Iranian Mosque is an educational experience, regardless of whether you’re looking for comfort or are just admiring architectural wonders and hidden gems in Dubai.
Al Qudra Lake
| Where is it? | R9R2+2MR – Dubai. Get Directions |
| How do I get there? | The best way to reach Al Qudra Lakes is by car |
| What are the opening hours? | No fixed hours. Open 24/7 |
Al Qudra Oasis is your destination if you seek to experience the hidden gems in Dubai. Situated on the outskirts, it provides a relaxing and calm atmosphere that is in stark contrast to the Downtown buzz. Enjoy the tranquility that nature has to offer by taking a relaxing walk along the roads that are lined with date palm trees and flowers.
The Al Qudra Lakes are a set of two heart-shaped artificial lakes located close to the oasis that draws migrating birds. While man-made, these lakes provide a place to relax that’s not too far from the busy city life. The unique artificial lakes are shaped like two inter-looped hearts which offers a lovely addition to the bare desert area. The desert is also conserved by the Dubai Municipality in a very environmentally friendly way.
Indoor Ski Resorts – Ski Dubai
| Where is it? | Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al Barsha. Get Directions |
| How do I get there? | Take the Red Line to Mall of the Emirates Station |
| What are the opening hours? | Take the Red Line to the Mall of the Emirates Station |
Escape the desert heat and indulge in a winter wonderland at Dubai’s indoor ski resort. Ski Dubai, located in the Mall of the Emirates, offers an exhilarating experience for both beginners and seasoned skiers. Strap on your boots, grab a snowboard or skis, and hit the slopes in this sub-zero adventure.
From skiing and snowboarding to tobogganing and penguin encounters, Ski Dubai offers a unique escape from the city’s scorching temperatures.
Black Palace Beach
| Where is it? | Al Sufouh 1 – Dubai. Get Directions |
| How do I get there? | Alight at Dubai Internet City station or Mashreq station |
Al Sufouh Beach, commonly referred to as Black Palace Beach, is a calm and tranquil beach for individuals seeking some relief and peace away from the bustling metropolis. If you’re on the hunt for hidden gems in Dubai, Black Palace Beach will certainly not disappoint.
From this public beach, you can easily see the Burj Al Arab, a seven-star hotel that sits on its own private island and offers a stunning backdrop for your beachy day. This beach is also called the Secret Beach by locals.
Stunning Beaches In Dubai
Al Ustad Special Kabab
| Where is it? | Al Mussallah Rd – near Al Fahidi – Al Hamriya. Get Directions |
| How do I get there? | It’s a short stroll from Al Fahidi Cultural Neighbourhood |
| What are the opening hours? | Sat-Thu: 11 AM – 1 AM | Fri: 5 PM – 1 AM |
Al Ustad Special Kabab, a local favorite, is a must-visit for food enthusiasts. Located in the bustling streets of Bur Dubai, this unassuming restaurant has been serving mouthwatering kebabs and traditional Middle Eastern dishes for over 40 years.
Indulge in delicious food from the tender and flavorsome meat to savoring the aromatic spices, and experience the warm hospitality that has made Al Ustad a legendary dining spot. This is one of the best hidden gems in Dubai.
Best Restaurants In Dubai
Dubai Ladies Beach Club
| Where is it? | 23a Jumeirah St. Get Directions |
| How do I get there? | Take the M1 to Business Bay Metro Station |
| What are the opening hours? | Daily, 7 AM – 10 PM |
This women’s exclusive beach club is called Dubai Ladies Club (abbreviated DLC), and is a safe space for women to enjoy a ladies-only beach, gym, spa, swimming pool, and beauty treatments. This beach club also regularly hosts events like fashion shows, beach parties, and charity events exclusively for members.
Must-Visit Attractions In Dubai
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some hidden gems in Dubai?
Ras Al Khor Wildlife Reserve, Al Qudra Lakes, Black Palace Beach, Hatta, and Dubai Coffee Museum are some of the many hidden gems in Dubai you must explore.
What are some things to do in Dubai besides sightseeing?
- Take a cooking class and learn how to make traditional Emirati dishes.
- Go on a desert safari and experience the thrill of dune bashing.
- Visit a souk or traditional marketplace and haggle for souvenirs.
- Relax on one of Dubai’s many beaches.
- See a show at the Dubai Opera House.
What is the best time to visit Dubai?
The best time to visit Dubai is during the cooler months, from November to April. However, Dubai is a year-round destination, so you can visit any time of year. Just be aware that it can get very hot in the summer months.
What are the must-visit attractions beyond the hidden gems in Dubai?
Some of the main attractions in Dubai include the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, Dubai Fountain, Palm Jumeirah, and Dubai Creek.
