Dubai after dark: 8 things to do when the sun goes down

Desert adventures under the stars

Swap the city lights for sand dunes with an evening desert safari. Expect dune bashing, camel rides, sunset views and outdoor dinners under the stars, all while enjoying much cooler temperatures after dark.

Arabian Adventures and Arabian Wanderers offers a range of evening desert safari experiences, from traditional dune dinners to luxury overnight stays in the desert.

Spend the night inside a tropical rainforest

Looking for something a little different to do after dark? This summer, you can swap your usual night out for an overnight adventure at Green Planet Dubai.

Available until October, the experience lets guests explore the biodome after hours, when many of its 3,000-plus plants and animals become more active. Expect guided nighttime encounters, the chance to help feed some of the residents and a buffet dinner before settling into your own fully equipped tent for the night.

Wake up to the sounds of the rainforest as the birds begin their morning chorus and don’t forget to say hello to one of Green Planet’s most popular residents, Lemon the sloth.

Where: Green Planet Dubai, City Walk
When: Fridays and Saturdays, 7pm to 8am, until October
Contact: thegreenplanetdubai.com

Catch an independent film at Cinema Akil

Skip the blockbuster crowds and spend your evening discovering something different at Cinema Akil.

The venue began life as a travelling pop-up in 2014 before opening its permanent home in Al Quoz several years later. Today, the cosy cinema features 133 seats and hosts a packed programme of unique screenings every week.

Where: Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, and 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central
When: Screenings take place daily; timings vary by film
Contact: cinemaakil.com

12 spots to enjoy night swims in Dubai this summer

When the daytime temperatures soar, Dubai’s pools and beaches come into their own after sunset. From free moonlit dips at public beaches to chic beach clubs with DJs and skyline views, these night swims are the perfect way to cool off this summer. Grab your swimsuit and dive into our pick of 12 of the best spots for an after-dark swim in the city.

Watch the fountains dance at night

One of Dubai’s most iconic attractions is even better at night. Head to Downtown Dubai to watch the dancing fountain shows set against the backdrop of Burj Khalifa, then stroll around the area once the temperatures cool down.

Where: The Dubai Fountain, Downtown Dubai
When: Evening shows daily from 6pm

Step into a world of immersive experiences at House of Hype

If you’re looking to escape the heat and snap some seriously cool photos, add House of Hype to your list. The immersive attraction, created by the team behind AYA Universe, is packed with colourful spaces and interactive experiences designed for both kids and adults.

Hidden inside Dubai Mall, the venue is full of surprises. Expect more than 100 attractions and experiences, from gaming-inspired zones and futuristic worlds to spaces that feel straight out of Japan and dreamlike installations that are made for your camera roll.

Where: Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai
When: Sunday to Thursday, 10am to 10pm; Friday and Saturday, 10am to midnight
Contact: house-of-hype.com

5 scenic spots for an evening walk in Dubai

When the summer heat makes daytime plans almost impossible, an evening stroll is one of the best ways to enjoy the city. From waterfront promenades to leafy parks and buzzing neighbourhoods, these five Dubai spots are perfect for a post-sunset wander.

Race your friends at outdoor karting

If you’re after something more adrenaline-fuelled, head to Kartdrome for outdoor karting under the lights. The track stays busy into the evening, offering a fun way to stay outdoors without dealing with the daytime heat.

Where: Dubai Kartdrome, Dubai Motor City
When: 9am to 12am
Contact: (04) 806 2220