Dubai tours

Things to do in Dubai

Dubai presents itself as a modern spectacle, where aspirations rise as high as its skyscrapers. The city's allure is a juxtaposition of luxury and tradition, with the desert's silence contrasting its vibrant souks. A local guide steers you beyond Dubai's glittering exterior into the cultural depths beneath. Al Fahidi district walking tours reveal a historic side often overlooked, while food and wine tours engage your senses with Middle Eastern flavours. Skipping the queue at the Burj Khalifa offers an unparalleled view of the cityscape, while Jumeirah Beach invites exploration. Each experience with your guide peels back another layer of Dubai, making your journey as exceptional as the city itself. If you’re looking for more inspiration, take a look at our curated list of things to do in Dubai. Explore Dubai your way At ToursByLocals, we believe that how you explore is just as important as where you go. That’s why every Dubai tour is private, flexible, and built around you: Move at your own pace, skip the crowds, make connections and follow your curiosity. Find local guides offering private tours in Dubai for every interest, including: Layover tours: Get picked up at DXB for a focused circuit through Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, ride an abra across Dubai Creek to the Gold and Spice Souks, and fit in a Burj Khalifa photo stop or the Dubai Frame, with timing tailored to a 4–8 hour window. History tours: Dive into Al Shindagha Museum and the Perfume House, step into heritage homes like Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, and visit the Saruq Al‑Hadid Archaeology Museum to connect artefacts with the old trade routes you’ll trace along the creek. Boat tours: Cross the creek by private abra at sunset, book a wooden dhow dinner cruise in Dubai Marina, or take a small speedboat around Palm Jumeirah for views of Atlantis and Burj Al Arab, with your guide handling departure points and sea conditions. Getting around: The metro and tram link many areas, but distances and heat can be challenging; tours with private transportation or a chauffeured vehicle make connections easy—ask your local guide to arrange it. This isn’t a one-size-fits-all itinerary, you can tailor your private tour to match your interests, pace and personality with a local who knows Dubai inside and out. Walking tours & neighbourhoods Embark on a private walking tour of Dubai, and explore these lively neighborhoods with the help of a local guide. It's the best way to truly experience the city. - Downtown Dubai: Home to the iconic Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, this area is perfect for families and groups looking for a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment. - Jumeirah Beach: This coastal neighborhood is ideal for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts, offering pristine beaches and a relaxed atmosphere. Perfect for a day of sun and sand. - Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood: Dive into Dubai's rich history in this area, which attracts cultural tourists with its traditional architecture and museums. It's a place to connect with the city's heritage. - Dubai Marina: Known for its modern skyline and waterfront dining, this area caters to those seeking a vibrant nightlife and luxury experiences. It’s ideal for those looking for a lively evening out. Day trip ideas from Dubai Base yourself in Dubai, then branch out to nearby cities and desert-mountain escapes for easy day trips that fit your pace and interests. Abu Dhabi: About 90 minutes by road, the capital pairs big architecture with calm waterfronts. See the white marble of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, stroll the Corniche, and step into Heritage Village for a snapshot of oasis life. If you like design and culture, your tour can lean into contemporary art spaces on Saadiyat and time in historic neighbourhoods. Sharjah: Just across Dubai Creek, Sharjah focuses on culture and local history. Wander the Heart of Sharjah lanes and souqs, check out restored coral-stone homes, and pause along the waterfront for traditional snacks. If you enjoy museums, galleries, and Islamic architecture, your tour can spend more time in the arts area and classic markets. Hatta: In the Hajar Mountains, Hatta brings cooler air, rocky wadis, and quiet views. Walk the dam shoreline, explore the restored Hatta Heritage Village, and take short hikes on marked trails. Outdoor fans can shape a tour around paddling on the lake or easy mountain biking, with photo stops at viewpoints. Al Ain: The garden city sits on ancient trade routes and keeps its oasis roots visible. Wander shaded paths in Al Ain Oasis to see the falaj irrigation, drive up Jebel Hafeet for wide views, and browse the camel market for a look at desert traditions. If you like archaeology and nature, your tour can balance fort ruins with green parks and springs. Ras Al Khaimah: Head north for rugged peaks and palm gardens. Climb the steps at Dhayah Fort for a lookout over date farms, then continue into the Jebel Jais area for mountain scenery and short walks on lower trails. For photography and history, your tour can mix fortress sites with coastal villages. A private tour with a local guide is the best way to really get to know a place. Skip the crowds, follow your interests, and see a side of Dubai most travellers miss.