Best Places to Visit in Dubai Off the Tourist Route

Location: Al Quoz, Dubai

Alserkal Avenue is home to some of the best hidden gems in Dubai for art, music, culture, food, photography, and filmmaking. The district features limited-time galleries from regional and international artists, artisan tea and coffee, stunning performing arts sessions, and projects from prize-winning architectures. The place is also pet-friendly!

Location: Hatta, Dubai

For mountain and outdoor lovers who want a rest from the hustle and bustle of the city, take a day trip to Wadi Shawka, located just north of Hatta. Less crowded, less tourists, but with more natural pools, more cycle paths, and exciting hiking trails.

Location: Al Barari, Dubai

Treat yourself to this picturesque restaurant with a mixed Thai and international menu. All locally grown and organic, too! The Farm is a luscious, breathtaking place that'll give any gardener and home-owner serious decorating envy. With its glimmering lakes, cascading streams, babbling brooks, over 30 themed gardens, and more than 4 million plants - no need to pinch yourself because it's not a mirage, it's an actual oasis in the desert.

Location: Al Qudra, Dubai

Wondering how to reach this beautiful man-made lake? It's only a 30-minute drive from Arabian Ranches with a few minutes of off-road driving.

Once there, you'll enjoy a spectacular stretch of lakes with geese, elegant swans, and ducks roaming about. Children and adults are free to wade in the calm waters that are practically beckoning you to take a dip. You're also allowed to camp overnight, so pitch up a tent, start a bonfire, bust out the tunes, and enjoy a rare sight of an uninterrupted night sky.