When people think of Dubai, they often picture towering skyscrapers, luxury shopping malls, or desert safaris. But the real magic of this city lies in its unexpected corners, where creativity, culture, and community thrive just beyond the tourist trail. If you’re someone who prefers alternative things to do in Dubai over typical selfie spots, this list of alternative urban activities is for you.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!1. Explore the Art Scene at Alserkal Avenue
Located in the heart of the Al Quoz industrial zone, Alserkal Avenue is a creative arts district that offers a refreshing contrast to Dubai’s more commercial attractions. Here you’ll find contemporary art galleries, independent cinemas, performance spaces, and concept cafes, all housed in converted warehouses that give the space a raw, urban charm.
Alserkal Avenue – Official Website
This spot is perfect for an afternoon of cultural discovery, whether you’re catching an art show or simply sipping on locally roasted coffee while chatting with artists and designers, which is just another example of alternative things you can do in Dubai.
2. Take a Graffiti Walk Through City Walk Dubai
Far from the usual murals and tourist-friendly backdrops, City Walk combines modern urban design with bold street art, interactive installations, and boutique shopping. The entire space is open-air and walkable, making it a great place to explore on foot while snapping edgy, creative photos.
If you’re into urban aesthetics and street culture, this is a must-visit to see how Dubai blends creativity with style in the public space, offering yet another thing to do in Dubai that’s alternative.
3. Discover Independent Bookstores and Coffee Shops in Jumeirah
Jumeirah may be known for its luxury villas and beachfront cafes, but hidden within are spots like BookHero or Kuttab Café, where the atmosphere is cozy, the crowd is local, and the shelves are filled with curated reads. Pair your afternoon read with a flat white, and you’ll feel a completely different side of Dubai—calmer, more thoughtful, and deeply community-oriented.
These spaces often host poetry nights, writing workshops, and cultural talks, so keep an eye out for events when you go. Embracing such unique spots highlights more alternative things to explore in Dubai.
4. Visit the Old Textile Souk by Abra from Bur Dubai
If you want something historic but far less visited than the Gold Souk, take a wooden abra boat across the Creek to the Textile Souk in Bur Dubai. The shops are colorful and packed with fabrics, spices, antiques, and handcrafted items, but the real joy is in the journey itself. The abra ride feels like stepping back in time and costs just AED 1.
This is an opportunity to witness Dubai from another perspective, where merchants chat with you over tea, showcasing alternative ways to engage with the city.
5. Join a Local Sustainability Workshop at The Sustainable City
For a city known for its luxury, Dubai is also home to some impressive green initiatives. The Sustainable City is a residential and commercial development that focuses on renewable energy, zero-waste living, and community farming. They regularly host workshops on gardening, upcycling, and eco-conscious living.
The Sustainable City – Events Page
It’s a unique way to learn something new, meet locals and residents passionate about the environment, and contribute meaningfully during your visit, which is also part of alternative ways to engage in Dubai.
Conclusion: Discover Dubai’s Other Side
While iconic attractions like the Burj Khalifa and the Palm will always draw the spotlight, there’s another side of Dubai waiting to be explored—one that’s full of color, creativity, and connection. From indie book cafés to sustainable urban farms, the city is overflowing with places that offer depth, charm, and inspiration for travelers who want more than just a checklist.
For even more unique travel tips, hidden gems, and insider experiences in Dubai, visit our wonderful site:
https://dubaisouking.com/