17 days ago
15-hidden-gems-in-dubai
The Burj Khalifa, fancy shopping complexes, and desert safaris are the first things that come to mind when most people think of Dubai. There is a lot more to this beautiful city than meets the eye. There are a lot of hidden jewels in Dubai that are off the beaten path and offer one-of-a-kind experiences. This list is for you if you're traveling with family, on a budget, or a foodie hunting for hidden gems.
GujjuTours, your trusted travel partner for unique Dubai experiences, has put together this list of the 20 top hidden treasures in Dubai that you can't miss.
1. The Lakes of Al Qudra
Al Qudra Lakes is a great place for nature enthusiasts to visit in Dubai. It's a quiet desert paradise with man-made lakes and local animals.
What to do:
- See flamingos, swans, and desert foxes in the wild.
- Ride your bike on the 86-kilometer-long Al Qudra Cycling Track.
- Spend the night camping under a sky full of stars.
The best things to do include Love Lake, the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, and the cycling track.
Tip for travelers: Get there shortly before sunset for amazing golden hour photos.
Call to Action: Get your Al Qudra Lakes tour packages from GujjuTours. Click here
2. The Museum of Coffee
The Coffee Museum is one of Dubai's most interesting hidden gems. It's free to get in and has a lot of cultural vibes.
Things to do:
- Find out about the history of coffee in different parts of the world.
- See how coffee is traditionally roasted.
- Try coffee from Japan, Ethiopia, or Arabic style.
The coffee artifacts gallery, the roasting zone, and the cultural books section are the best things to see.
Don't miss the Ethiopian coffee ceremony; it's a feast for the eyes and the nose.
3. Alserkal Avenue
Alserkal Avenue is a cultural powerhouse and a great place for families to come if they appreciate art.
Things to Do:
- Check out modern art galleries and installations.
- Go to free art classes or movie showings.
- Check out vegan and gourmet cafés.
The Junction Theatre, Wild & The Moon, and Leila Heller Gallery are some of the best places to visit.
Follow them on Instagram to get details on free events and shows.
4. The Hatta Heritage Village
Hatta Heritage town is a preserved historic town that shows off Emirati history and culture. It's one of the best hidden gems in Dubai for families to explore.
Things to Do:
- Check out the renovated stone buildings and towers that were used for defense.
- Find out about the old-fashioned ways of farming in the UAE.
- While you hike, look at the mountains.
Hatta Dam, Hatta Hill Park, and Hatta Fort are the best places to visit.
Tip for travelers: Go kayaking at Hatta Dam while you're there.
5. Al Barari Farm
The Farm in Al Barari is a peaceful getaway with lots of green space and great meals if you're looking for hidden gems restaurants in Dubai.
What to Do:
- Enjoy an organic lunch that came straight from the farm.
- Take a walk around botanical gardens.
- Have a quiet breakfast by the lake.
The Farm Restaurant and Al Barari Nature Walks are the best things to do.
Travel Tip: Book your stay on the weekends, when it fills up fast.
6. The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
This wetland area is one of Dubai's best-kept secrets for free, especially if you want to watch birds.
Things to do:
- In the winter, you may get up close and personal with pink flamingos.
- Go to the free viewing hides that are spaced out around the sanctuary.
- You can see herons, egrets, and ospreys.
The Flamingo Hide, the Mangrove area, and the Bird Watching Towers are the best things to see.
Tip for travelers: Bring binoculars to see birds even better.
Call to Action: Use GujjuTours to book tours to the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. Click here
7. The Boardwalk at Dubai Creek Harbor
Dubai Creek Harbor Boardwalk is less congested than the Marina. It has great views of the cityscape and a calm waterfront ambiance.
Things to do:
- Take a walk by the ocean at sunset.
- Listen to live music and see at art installations.
- Eat in stylish cafes with views of the skyline.
The Viewing Point, Vida Creek Harbour, and Sunset Promenade are the best places to see.
Tip for Travelers: Come in the early morning to take pictures without people.
Explore Dubai Creek Harbor with GujjuTours. Click here
8. Ripe Market
Ripe Market is a lively outdoor market in Dubai that is one of the best-kept secrets for families. It has shopping, food, and play areas.
Things to Do:
- Buy things that are manufactured by hand and are organic.
- Enjoy food trucks with meals from many different cultures.
- Take part in fitness classes and live music events.
The best things to do are Zabeel Park, Academy Park, and Ripe Craft Stalls.
Travel Tip: Look up their schedule online because the days and places change.
Call to Action: Use GujjuTours to add Ripe Market trips to your Dubai itinerary. Click here
9. The Al Fahidi Historical District
Al Fahidi is one of Dubai's oldest districts and a great place to find hidden gems for free cultural exploration.
What to Do:
The Dubai Museum, the XVA Gallery, and the Sheikh Mohammed Center are some of the best places to visit.
Tip for travelers: Go in the early morning to avoid the heat and enjoy the peaceful streets.
Call to Action: Reserve your cultural stroll in Old Dubai with GujjuTours. Click here
10. The View at The Palm (A Hidden Sunset Spot)
The View at The Palm is not unknown, but it still shocks many travelers and is a semi-hidden gem in Dubai with stunning vistas.
What to do:
- See Palm Jumeirah from all sides.
- Look out across the Gulf and see the sun set.
- Check out the museum that lets you interact with it.
The best things to see are the Observation Deck, Nakheel Mall, and Palm Boardwalk.
Tip for travelers: Buy tickets online ahead of time for sunset times.
Call to Action: Take a tour with GujjuTours to see The View at The Palm. Click here
11. Black Palace Beach, also known as Secret Beach
This undeveloped beach between Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab is a quiet place to get away from it all and one of Dubai's best-kept secrets.
What to do:
- Swim in clear water while looking out at the city.
- Bring a picnic and get away from the crowds.
- Take pictures of the sunrise.
Beachline and views of the Burj Al Arab are the best things to do.
Tip for travelers: There are no amenities nearby, so carry things like drink and sunscreen.
Add Secret Beach to your Dubai getaway with GujjuTours. Click here
12. The Street Art and Culture of Satwa
Satwa is a hidden treasure in Dubai that doesn't get enough credit. It has a lot of color and culture and offers real experiences.
What to do:
- Look for vivid murals on the walls of buildings.
- Buy things at local spice and textile shops.
- Eat at secret places that provide Indian and Filipino food.
The best things to do are 2nd December Street, the Textile Souq, and Ravi Restaurant.
Tip for Travelers: Walk about at night when it's cooler.
Call to Action: Explore Satwa in Dubai with GujjuTours. Click here
13. The Jameel Arts Center
The Jameel Arts Centre is one of Dubai's best-kept secrets for family fun for anyone who appreciate modern art.
What to Do:
- Go to shows of modern art.
- Visit gardens with sculptures.
- Take part in workshops that are good for families.
The Artist's Garden, Sculpture Park, and Library are the best places to visit.
Tip for travelers: Admission is free, so it's a great way to spend a day without spending any money.
Call to Action: Use GujjuTours to book trips to the Jameel Arts Center. Click here
14. Love Lake Dubai
Love Lake is a hidden treasure in Dubai that you can visit for free. It looks like two hearts that are entwined and is a peaceful place.
Things to do:
- Take romantic pictures while walking on heart-shaped pathways.
- Have a picnic near the lake.
- Spot birds and plants that grow in the desert.
Heart-shaped Lake, Desert Trails, and Viewing Platforms are the best things to see.
Tip for travelers: Go when it's cooler; there are no eateries or shade.
Add Love Lake to your romantic getaway with GujjuTours. Click here
15. The Arabian Tea House
Arabian Tea House is one of Dubai's hidden jewels. It serves real Emirati food in a beautiful old courtyard.
Things to Do:
- Eat traditional foods like Luqaimat and Machboos.
- Drink herbal teas amid the bougainvillea trees.
- Feel the charm of the past.
Top Attractions: Traditional decor, a menu of local Emirati dishes, and dining in the courtyard
Tip for travelers: The breakfast platter is great for sharing.
Call to Action: Eat at Arabian Tea House with meals planned by GujjuTours. Click here
Conclusion:
There are a lot of things to do in Dubai that aren't tourist attractions. These secluded beaches, calm lakes, cultural towns, and intimate cafés in Dubai are great places for families, couples, and lone visitors to have fun.
There is something special waiting for you to find in Dubai, whether you're looking for free hidden gems, family-friendly places, or hidden gem eateries.
GujjuTours can take you beyond the usual with personalized dubai tour packages that show you the real Dubai.
👉 Get your GujjuTours Hidden Gems Dubai Tour today!