For Muslims, Dubai is one of the most popular holiday destinations. It has everything a Muslim-traveller could want – unlimited halal food, mosques everywhere to pray and lots of entertainment for children and families. It has so much more to offer than just skyscrapers and deserts. With 60% of the population being Muslim, this is a great destination for my Muslim Mama’s.
For the families who want to visit Dubai and wonder what there is to do, here are the top Muslim-friendly things to Dubai:
The Dancing Fountains
One of the most famous attractions and most visited places in Dubai is the dancing fountain in Dubai Mall. The fountains are definitely something that you and the family should see. Watching the water “dance” to different tunes is fun and extremely enjoyable for the children. They perform every 30 minutes between 6pm and 12pm.
If you want to get a good spot, arrive just as the last show is finishing. When the crowd moves, you’ll get a good spot. After the water finishes dancing, you can grab some milkshake and chips at Five Guys. It’s hard work watching water dance so it’s only right that you treat yourself after the show.
Burj Khalifa
Now, this wouldn’t be even a half decent guide if it didn’t include the world’s tallest building. If you have a phobia of heights, then maybe you should give this one a miss, otherwise make sure you give this building a visit – it has one of the greatest views of Dubai. It is important to remember to book a slot in advance – before sunset – so that you can see Dubai during the day and night.
Atlantis Waterpark
You don’t need to stay at the hotel to make the most of this amazing waterpark. You can visit the Atlantis waterpark and even the aquarium for the day and we promise you. It will be filled with fun and action!
Visit at least one souk
Dubai is known for the shopping experience and one place that shouldn’t be overlooked are the souks – located in the open air markets in Dubai Creek. These souks always have something for every member of the family. Whether it’s jewellery you’re looking for or souvenirs, you can find it in a souk.
Remember, bargain with the shopkeepers! Never pay full price – everything can be negotiated.
The Aquarium in Dubai Mall
Another family friendly/ Muslim-friendly activity is the aquarium in Dubai Mall. This aquarium offers plenty of things for everyone young or old. The Aquarium is free to view on the outside. It’s always fun to play fish spotting with the kids. you can also pay an entry fee and go under the tunnel. If you’re feeling a little more adventurous, you can even swim with the sharks!
Tour bus
If you’re only in the city for a few days and don’t have enough time to see all the great monuments of Dubai, a tour bus is the way to go. There are a variety of companies in Dubai that can provide this service. They operate as a hop on hop off system, meaning that you can explore the city on your own time.
Women only beach days
Dubai’s Al Mamzar beach is for women only on Mondays and Wednesdays. So, all my fellow hijabis can wear as much or as little as you want.
I have been a swimmer from the age of 6, I love the water, and I know without a doubt that it is easier to swim without a burkini, so women’s only swimming is always the highlight of my trips.
Halal Food
All the food in Dubai is halal which for Muslim food lovers is amazing. You can eat wherever you want, whenever you want – from halal bacon to halal beer, they have it all. Whenever I go to Dubai, I eat at all the places I wouldn’t be able to eat at when in the UK. From Five Guys to McDonalds, I eat it all. Is it just me?
Mosques
Dubai is renowned for its beautiful mosques. Not only is it a place to pray and find peace, it is somewhere to go if you want to see amazing architecture and stunning design.
The Grand Mosque of Dubai is one of the most striking mosques in Dubai. Here are a few more places to visit:
- Jumeirah Mosque
- Satwa Mosque
- Masjid Sultan Ahmed Bashalalat
- Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque
- Burhani Masjid
- Ali bin Abi Taleb Mosque
- Dubai is a must-visit for Muslims as you’ll love the whole experience.
Money-Saving Tips:
- Groupon has great discounts for a lot of Dubai attractions, and it will save you a lot of money. I managed to buy a tour bus ticket for £15 rather than £30+. Tip: book your tickets before you get there as slots get filled up fast.
- If you are a couple/ family with children visiting Dubai, you need entertainer. It is an app that gives you access to 2 for 1 activities, spas, hotels, attractions and many many restaurants.
- If you are shopping at local markets, it is a wise decision to use cash rather than a credit card to avoid card details being stolen.
- When in Dubai, you should purchase a travel-friendly sim card when at the airport. This will allow you to have internet access, book taxis and google everything you need.
And there you have it my lovely Muslim Mamas – a guide to Dubai!