The 10 best things to do in Dubai at night, from evening brunch to kart-racing

Wondering how to spend nights out in Dubai? You’re in luck—the glitzy desert city has no shortage of things to do after nightfall, whether you’re looking to party all night or entertain your little ones.

The UAE is historically a conservative country, and it’s important to abide by local laws. For instance, you’ll have to be at least 21 years old to purchase or consume alcohol in Dubai, and it’s illegal to drink in public. Alcohol is only permitted in licensed establishments, which range from upscale hotel lounges to casual beach clubs. Despite these restrictions, Dubai’s party scene is world-renowned, with international acts frequently showing up to dazzle the crowd.

Partying is restricted during Ramadan, but the Holy Month offers a great opportunity to experience local culture and traditions. Immerse yourself in Dubai’s vibrant Ramadan night markets as you get adorned with henna, watch performances, and shop for Arabic sweets. Of course, there are also tons of family-friendly after-dark activities throughout the year, from night tours to interactive experiences.

Price: From $105

Opening hours: 10 a.m. to midnight

Take in Dubai’s glittering sea of skyscrapers at the world’s tallest building. Levels 124 and 125 of the Burj Khalifa, known as “At the Top,” offer stunning 360-degree views, an outdoor observation terrace, and even a VR-powered glass floor. On level 148, At the Top SKY will make you feel on top of the world (literally) at 1,820 feet off the ground.

Sunset is the most popular time to visit the Burj Khalifa, so you’ll have to get a prime hour ticket. Alternatively, book this night city tour where you get to stop by the Burj Khalifa to admire the night view with less crowds.

Price: Free admission

Opening hours: 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.

In late spring, just before summer’s sweltering heat, locals flock to night markets to make the most of cooler temperatures. The Ramadan night markets are also popular—expect mouth-watering food, festive goods, and dazzling performances.

Al Seef, a charming neighborhood along the historic Dubai Creek, holds its annual Ramadan Night Market between sunset and midnight, and the Ripe Market also organizes several pop-ups around the city. Throughout the year, you can still visit various bazaars like the gold, textile, and spice souks, which open until late evening. Join this walking tour for a guided adventure through Old Dubai.

Price: From $68

Opening hours: 7 p.m. till late

While brunch is traditionally eaten in the afternoon, Dubai redefines tradition with evening brunch. What started out as a fun alternative is now a part of mainstream culture in Dubai, with restaurants, bars, and clubs all over the city offering decadent meals with free-flow drinks and top-notch entertainment. Crowned “Best Evening Brunch” by What's On Dubai, The Penthouse’s adults-only Maskerade Evening Brunch serves a feast while a DJ spins the latest hits.

Price: From $38

Opening hours: noon to midnight

As night falls, get an adrenaline rush at the Dubai Autodrome, which features a world-class Kartdrome that opens till late. The outdoor circuit is equipped for night-time racing, with floodlights to boost visibility, and includes thrilling features like a tunnel, bridge, and 17 corners to test your karting skills. If you’re feeling confident, you can even take part in the Rookie Race Night. Those with little ones can race in the indoor circuit, which allows children aged seven and up.

Price: From $45

Get in touch with nature on a desert adventure. As the sun sets and temperatures drop, Dubai’s deserts are ready for you to explore. On this evening safari tour, you’ll go sandboarding amid the dunes where red sand blends with orange sky before enjoying a barbecue dinner with live entertainment. This highly-rated heritage tour will take you around the Arabian desert in a vintage wagon, and if weather permits, you’ll conclude your night with a stargazing session. Or spend the night under the stars before enjoying a sunrise camel ride.

Price: From $49

Opening hours: 9 p.m. to 2 a.m.

Described as Dubai’s most lavish dinner with a show, Billionaire Dubai promises a night to remember. Tuck into a medley of fusion dishes while enjoying an electrifying performance featuring aerial acrobats, singers, dancers, and more. After the show, it’s your time to shine as Billionaire seamlessly transitions into the best nightclub in Dubai. Hit the dance floor to rub shoulders with the city’s A-listers as world-famous DJs get the party going.

Price: From $49

Opening hours: 10 a.m. to 2 a.m.

Swing by Topgolf Dubai for food, drinks, and a great time—no experience required. Thanks to Topgolf’s microchipped golf balls, players can easily track every shot, and even unlock various skill challenges. Children will have a ball of a time playing Angry Birds, where they’ll use golf balls to smash structures and defeat pigs.

Price: From $18

Opening hours: 4 p.m. to midnight

Light up your night at Dubai Garden Glow, a magical park that caters to both children and adults. Dubai Garden Glow is actually made up of several themed entertainment areas, from the Magic Park with its optical illusions to the Ice Park with delicate ice sculptures. Couples can take a romantic stroll through the Glow Park, where energy-saving LED lights and recycled luminous fabric are weaved into intricate art pieces, and families should stop by Dinosaur Park to snap a picture with the lifelike animatronic dinosaurs.

Price: From $14

Opening hours: 10 a.m. till late

Once the sun goes down, Zero Gravity transforms from chill beach bar to buzzing night club. With international guest DJs taking the stage every weekend, and seasonal appearances by VIP guests like Fatboy Slim and Jonas Blue, prepare to dance the night away at Zero Gravity. On Mermaid Ladies Night, enjoy a free flow of beverages and beach bites for just $54.

Price: From $14

Opening hours: 11 a.m. to 11 p.m.

Cinema Akil is an indie cinema focused on bringing movies from all over the world to Dubai. Launched in 2014 as a “nomadic” theater, Cinema Akil has held more than 60 pop-up cinemas in Dubai. Today, it has found a permanent home in hipster hotspot Alserkal Avenue, but still hosts regular pop-ups in collaboration with various brands and film festivals. Keep an eye on Cinema Akil’s pop-up calendar for a chance to watch a movie in the most eclectic spaces, from rooftop terraces to the desert sands of Al Marmoom.

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