The sprawling desert city of Dubai is more than just malls and air conditioning at times. It has an exciting influx of cultural institutions, galleries, and shopping centers that are all aimed at luring in new tourists. 

We have prepared the article to prove that nothing is impossible in this city, no matter whether you're taking a helicopter flight or watching the city's dancing fountain show.

Here are some of the coolest places you should check out during your winter holiday in this Middle Eastern hotspot.

At the Top, Burj Khalifa

Dubai is home to the tallest building in the world, which is visible almost everywhere. Visitors can also experience the 160-story behemoth from the top - so prepare yourself to be blown away by the high-speed elevators, followed by the view from the observation deck. Purchasing tickets online in advance allows you to pick your time slot. The price starts from 154 AED (about $42) and it depends on which observation deck you visit and what time of day you go.

The Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall, the world's largest mall, attracts almost 100 million visitors a year. The giant occupies an area of more than 1 million square meters, roughly equivalent to 200 soccer fields. There are more than 1,200 shops here, as well as dozens of restaurants and cafes.

There is a lot to do for families at Dubai Mall. Among the attractions are a famous aquarium and underwater zoo. The price of tickets (with different visiting programs) starts from 105 AED (~ $29). Part of the aquarium is free to view - right from the mall. Additionally, parents with children can visit the Ice Rink and the KidZania area.

In the Dubai Mall, you're likely to see the tallest performing fountain, so take a moment to watch the show while you're there. The fountain offers daytime and evening shows. There are two shows during the day: at 1 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. and in the evening every half hour from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. (Thursday through Saturday until 11:30 p.m.).

Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark

The Atlantis Resort in Dubai has an Oceanarium with over 65,000 marine animals. A team of professionals and veterinarians care for them. Dubai's Atlantis Resort has become the first zoo in the Middle East to be accredited as the "gold standard" in the zoo industry.

Water slides, thrilling rides, and interactions with sea creatures - Aquaventure Waterpark offers a variety of activity opportunities. You'll be left with a lasting impression.

Global Village

The Global Village is the highlight of the year in Dubai - a seasonally open festival and shopping area. The fair celebrates the world's diverse cultures and traditions, with pavilions dedicated to different countries - you can buy Turkish rose perfumes, Nigerian spices, Egyptian scarves and more. Cultural performances, a theme park, and numerous food stalls and restaurants are also available at Global Village. The entrance fee is 15 AED (~ $4).

 

Expo 2020 Dubai

The Expo 2020 is one of the most significant events in the history of world expositions. There are more than 190 participating nations, each with its own pavilion.

The focus is on showcasing the latest scientific and medical advances as well as cultural and creative innovations. The purpose of the event is to improve the world by relying on the heart and vision, to live in harmony with nature, and to bring together people of all nations, just as roots connect trees.

Public access to Expo 2020 will be available for six months from October 1, 2021, to March 31, 2022. Attending Expo 2020 Dubai does not cost an arm and a leg, but it is quite affordable. Visitors have a variety of options.

1. An exhibition season pass

It costs 495 AED (~ $135). You can visit the exhibition as often as you like during the six-month period.

2. «1-day Pass»

You may visit the exhibition only once with this ticket. The cost is 95 AED (~ $26).

3. «Multi-Pass»

This is a ticket with multiple entries. From the date of the first validation, you are able to visit the exhibition halls for a period of 30 days. The price is 195 AED (~ $53).

Don't miss the chance to experience innovative landscapes and architecture, and learn about cultural traditions from different countries. Visit Expo 2020!

Dubai Miracle Garden

There is no other flower garden as large as the Miracle Garden in Dubai. There are 72,000 square meters of flower replicas of famous buildings and architectural structures there. Floral arrangements are also shaped like animals, aircraft, and other things. There are plenty of restaurants nearby for you to refuel.

Colors abound in every direction, making it one of the most Instagrammable spots in Dubai. Dubai Miracle Garden entry fees are as follows: for adults 55AED (~ $15) and for children 40 AED (~ $11).

Ski Dubai

It is the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East. It has a 4,500-square-meter Snow Park where you can sled, toboggan, or climb towers. Also, there is a beautiful indoor ice cave and a variety of activities for children and adults. You will never forget their Ski Dubai penguin encounter!

The cost of a full day's access to the slopes is 305 AED (~ $83) for adults and 280 AED (~ $76) for children. 

Dubai Safari

Looking for something new and exciting that you can't find at home? Then stop right here. Strap yourself into a 4x4 and take a ride down, up, and around the dunes at top speed. You can end the day on a relaxing note by adding a camel ride and camping by the fire. The Jeep Safari in Dubai starts at 180 AED ( ~ $50).

Skydive Dubai

Skydiving is a fascinating sport for adrenaline addicts. The experience of flying over the city's skyline is one of a lifetime. You should try a tandem skydive in Dubai if you've never done it before. 

Your instructor and you will exit the plane and free fall for nearly 60 seconds. You will parachute at 6,000 feet, flying past the skyline of the city like a falcon! 

What's more, you get professionally edited photos and a video of your skydiving in Dubai experience!

Tandem skydive over the breathtaking Palm Jumeirah will cost you 1,999 AED (~ $544).

La Perle by Dragone live show

Choose La Perle - a theatrical production that combines breathtaking choreography, daring stunts, and a unique, immersive 'aqua theatre' experience. The world-class artists perform acrobatics, death-defying dives, and unbelievable motorcycle tricks. You won't believe what you see!

The cost per person is 195 AED (~ $53).

You can have a lot of fun while on holiday in Dubai. The Dubai tourism industry has created a variety of fun activities and places in order to attract people from other countries. No matter what your interests and hobbies are, they know how to fulfill your deepest desires.