As far as locations go, there’s no denying the pull of Dubai Marina. Skyscrapers are poised alongside the winding canal, where luxury yachts patiently wait for their next outing. The area – which extends from Al Sufouh Road and comprises  Jumeira Beach Residence(JBR)– has forged itself as one of the city’s busiest neighbourhoods. Naturally, there’s plenty to do but here are some highlights to help you get started.

GO ON A CRUISE

What better way to explore the wonderful water neighbourhood than on a cruise?

Climb aboard a traditional dhow and explore the waterways of Dubai Marina with Captain Jack. The cruise departs every hour from the Marina Promenade and can be joined at any time of the day. The surprisingly spacious vessel allows for voyagers to sprawl out on bean bags as it meanders along, showing off the area’s incredible architecture and scenery, before making its way to the outskirts of Palm Jumeirah island.

SHOP,EAT AND SWIM

An impressive outdoor entertainment development located directly opposite JBR’s The Walk, The Beach is a hive of activity. Its modern, low-rise design elevates the enviable beachside location and there are more than 70 shopping and dining options to try, including local favourite Cupagahwa. Buy some souvenirs at I Love Dubai, then enjoy a quick swim in the sea or play sports on the sand. Afterwards, refuel on grilled seafood at Mediterranean find Eat Greek, or mega burgers at US import The Cheesecake Factory.

Shop For High Street Favourites

The Dubai Marina Mall is a community favourite with a children’s play centre, exceptional dining and an edit of essential high-street stores such as H&M, Cos, River Island and Monsoon.

While bustling, especially on weekends, it’s the ideal place to browse and shop to your leisure. Families with young kids will also want to check out Little Explorers – an edutainment sanctuary for children between the ages of two to seven.

The outdoor area by the mall also hosts seasonal events, including street carnivals, al fresco cinema celebrations and music festivals.

Fly Over The Marina At High Speed

Forget simply scoping out the marina from a tall building – no, that’s so 2016. The world’s longest urban zipline opened in 2017, and thrill-seekers have been flocking to it ever since. The team from XLinerun flights from 170m up one of the JBR’s Amwaj Towers, across to the other side of the waterway on top of Marina Mall, every day of the year.

With participants reaching speeds of up to 80 km/hr as they hurtle across the water, it’s not an activity for the faint-hearted.