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Dubai travel blog — the fullest dubai travel guide & what to do in dubai for first-timers.

It is not surprising that Dubai has always been one of the most luxurious countries in the world for any visitor. This city and also an emirate always makes everyone “overwhelmed” because it is the convergence of the greatest man-made works in the world, the massive shopping malls, the most expensive and splendid things… even you can see the gold ATMs are placed everywhere. With those attractions, a trip to Dubai is a tourist dream of any visitor. Do not think Dubai is only for the elite, you just need make for yourself a very detailed plan with a reasonable budget to set foot in this kingdom of wealth. So, what to do and how to plan a perfect budget trip to Dubai for the first-time? Let’s check out our Dubai travel blog (Dubai blog) with the fullest Dubai travel guide blog (Dubai guide, Dubai tourist guide, Dubai visitor guide) from how to get there, best time to come, where to stay, best places to visit and top things to do to find out the answer!

• What to buy in Dubai? — Top +23 best things to buy in Dubai
• What to know before going to Dubai? — 10 Dubai travel tips & things to know before traveling to Dubai
• What to do in Dubai? — 10+ cool, must & best things to do in Dubai
• Where to go in Dubai? — 7 best places to visit in Dubai
• Where to stay in Dubai? — 13+ best areas + hotels & best places to stay in Dubai

The Emirate of Dubai is one of the seven United Arab Emirates (UAE) but has the largest population of nearly 3 million people and the second largest area of 4,114 km². Dubai is very dynamic, always innovating country too creating values ​​that make it the most luxurious and modern.

Dubai has recently emerged as an international metropolis, which has been growing rapidly to become a global city and the business and cultural hub of the Middle East and the Persian Gulf region. Tourists are increasingly overwhelmed by the luxury and famousness of Dubai and desire to visit this emirate once.

Visiting Dubai, you will admire the tallest buildings in the world, the most luxurious and high-end hotels, extreme expensive and splendid restaurants, bustling shopping centers, large markets, stunning beaches…

Dubai travel blog: When to visit?

Dubai has a desert climate type, so it is very arid and hot. Summer is extremely hot, high humidity, windy and dry, the average daytime temperature is about 41 degrees Celsius and drops down to 30 degrees Celsius at night. Most days are sunny. In contrast, winter has quite cool weather, even a bit cold with an average daytime temperature of 24 degrees Celsius and falls down to 14 degrees Celsius at night. However, winter in Dubai is relatively short. Dubai is hottest in August and coldest in January.

From May to October: This is the summer time of Dubai, due to most of area of the city is desert, so the temperature is extremely hot.

From November to April next year: This is winter time, also is the best time to travel to Dubai. At this time, the weather is pleasant, cool air and the sky is clear which is very suitable for sightseeing, taking cruise tours or have fun at amusement parks.

Note: You can choose to visit Dubai at any time of the year, but the best time is still from November to April next year. You should avoid going in June-August because summer peaks can reach 40 degrees Celsius, sometimes exceeds 50 degrees Celsius, extremely hot and suffocating. Moreover, you also should avoid the Ramadan month, it is not convenient for tourism activities and sightseeing.

Dubai travel blog: How to get to Dubai?

Dubai is one of the largest transit points in the world by air. Depending on where you will be departing, you can choose to fly with airlines such as Emirates, Cathay Pacific, Singapore, United, American.. to fly to Dubai. To find cheap tickets and suitable flight routes, visit websites like SkyScanner.com , Expedia.com , Google Flights , Kayak.com to search, compare and to book your tickets.

If you fly to Dubai you will be landing at Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). Dubai International Airport is the main airport that serves Dubai and is one of the busiest airports in the world. It is located 4 km away from the southeast of Dubai while Al Maktoum International Airport is located 37 km away from the southwest of Dubai.

Dubai International Airport has 3 different passenger terminals. There is a shuttle service connecting each terminal and tourists take at least 20 minutes to travel from one terminal to another. Al Maktoum International Airport currently has one terminal and one runway. The airport will be expanded to three terminals and five runways in the near future.

Dubai travel blog: Getting around Dubai

To saving costs of traveling, many tourists choose to traveling by bus, the fare is based on each route, about USD 1.5 / person, the bus is comfortable and modern. These bus routes connect all the major landmarks and tourist attractions of the city, making them quite convenient for visitors. You should also note that, if traveling by bus or subway and other public transport, men and women cannot sit together but must sit separately. Each bus trip runs every 15-20 minutes, except on Fridays when the frequency is slightly low.

In addition, you can also take the Hop-on Hop off sightseeing bus tour of 24, 48 or 72 hours such as Big Bus or CitySightseeing Bus which will take you to all the major attractions with the guide to visit must-see sights such as Dubai museum, the old souks, Burj Khalifa, Mall of the Emirates, Jumeirah Mosque and more. Details see here .

• Dubai City Sightseeing Bus Pass

This is an economical and preferred way to get from Bur Dubai to Deira and vice versa. Fares for water buses range from 1 – 4 AED ($0.3 – USD 1.09) depending on route you take.

This is one of the most commonly used and efficient public transport means in Dubai. It holds the record in operation for the longest fully automated subway network in the world with two lines (Red and Green). A train ride costs from USD 0.5 to USD 1.75, depending on the route and the class of seat you choose.

Taxis are the most popular means of transport in Dubai, you can see thousands of taxis parked on the streets to pick up passengers at every location in the city. The taxi in Dubai is also very special, it is divided into many categories such as Taxi Vip, female taxi (female driver and only female passenger), airport taxi and regular taxi.

Note: To saving costs of traveling you can use two popular cards for convenience of travel, which is the Red Nol Card for only one of means of transportation and the Silver Nol Card for many means. Each trip only costs about 3 AED ($0.82). These cards apply to public transport system including metro, bus, tram and ferry.

With the hot climate, moving between attractions is also a matter. So if you can rent a car, it will save you more time and energy. If you have an abundant budget and want to try once to be a desert billionaire, you can rent a Ferrari or a Lamboghini supercar. However, to use this service requires an international driver’s license as well as understanding the traffic laws in Dubai. If you do not meet these requirements, it is best not to choose this option. Instead, it is more convenient to take a taxi.

Dubai travel blog: What to do and where to go?

The greatest man-made constructions in dubai, burj khalifa.

With a total height of of 828 m (830 m to tip) and 163 floors, Burj Khalifa is currently the tallest tower in the world. Featuring 2 observation decks, a Las Vegas-inspired fountain, 9 luxury hotels and many of the city’s best restaurants. This 21st century architecture must be the number one place to visit when visiting Dubai or even the entire UAE.

• Burj Khalifa Observation Deck with Dubai Aquarium & More

Address: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: Open 24 hours

Burj Al Arab

Not only owns a series of skyscrapers, modern automatic subway system, Dubai also makes the world “overwhelmed” because this emirate has the only 7-star hotel in the world. Another iconic Dubai building in the shape of a sail. Only about a third of the height of Burj Khalifa with a height of 321m, this place is known as one of the world-leading luxurious hotels. The lavish interiors inside this 7-star hotel make everyone overwhelmed, extremely luxury, magnificent. The rooms inside Burj Al Arab are really only for the emperors and the super-rich.

Address: Jumeira Road Umm Suqeim 3, Dubai 74147 United Arab Emirates

Dubai Fountain

In the top of Dubai’s greatest constructions, it is impossible not to mention the Dubai fountain, was opened May 8, 2009 which is one of the largest fountains in the world. With a length of 275m, the volume of water is 83,000 liters, equipped with 6,000 LED lights, creating lively and satisfying water music performances. You may be amazed, but the power of this fountain is as strong as a jet engine and the water shoots from nozzles can reach a height of 153m.

• Dubai Fountain Lake Ride

Address: Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: Open 24 hours

Palm Islands (Palm Jumeirah Artificial Islands)

Palm Islands is one of the greatest man-made constructions in modern times with millions of tons of sand and stone from the Persian Gulf. Palm Islands were built in the shape of a 16-branch palm tree, in which the longest branch can be reach 800m long and surrounded by an arc up to 11km long.

So far, the Palm Islands group is the largest man-made island project in the world and is considered one of the greatest works of all mankind. It has more than 100 luxury hotels, along with high-class villas, marinas, upscale restaurants, high-end shopping malls, water parks, luxury spa services, … creating the luxury of this artificial islands.

Address: Bluewaters – Bluewaters Island – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Inspired by the famous London Eye, Ain Dubai is the tallest ferris wheel in the world! With a height of more than 250 m, Ain Dubai is 82 m higher than the current world’s tallest ferris wheel, the High Roller in Las Vegas (USA) and nearly twice the 135 m height of the London Eye on the banks of the Thames. (UK). 360 degree views around the city, coast, beach, skyscrapers and amazing views of Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab.

The massiveness of Ain Dubai is shown through impressive numbers. This work used 11,200 tons of steel, about 33% more than the volume needed to build the Eiffel Tower in France. The hub and main shaft of this complex weighs 1,805 tons – equivalent to 4 Airbus A380 aircraft, while the combined weight and 48 passenger cabins is 7,500 tons. The Ain Dubai Ferris Wheel can accommodate 1,750 guests at the same time, with a maximum of 40 people in a cabin.

• Ain Dubai: World’s Largest Observation Wheel

Buying a ticket to explore Ain Dubai, you have the opportunity to enjoy 38 minutes of value worth for money in a luxurious air-conditioned cabin. Check in for unique photos with breathtaking skylines. Or share a frame with Dubai icons such as The Palm, Dubai Marina & Burj Al Arab Jumeirah… In addition, the cabins of Ain Dubai can also be customized to suit birthday parties, engagements, weddings, etc. cultural events or parties for businesses to meet partners, MICE…

Deep Dive Dubai

Address: NAS Sports Complex – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: 9AM–6PM/Monday: Closed

Dubai is the world’s most luxurious and richest city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Famous for the unique and tallest architectural buildings in the world. Now, the city makes the whole world admiring when it owns the world’s deepest swimming pool – Deep Dive Dubai.

The swimming pool is located in a shell-shaped structure with an area of ​​​​up to 1,500 m2 and a depth of 60 m. With the depth of this swimming pool even greater than the height of a 15-storey building and to fill the volume of this massive structure, they use up to 14 million liters of fresh water.

If you are a person who likes mysteries and is always learning about the mysterious Atlantis civilization deep under water, this swimming pool will satisfy your curiosity during your Dubai trip.

Dubai Atlantis Discovery Scuba Diving Experience at The Lost Chambers Aquarium

If you are a scuba diving lover, Deep Dive Dubai is a place you cannot ignore. The games and miniatures set up will definitely surprise you. Especially, when you dive inside, your loved ones can also interact with each other, play chess, billiards and table tennis underwater, even read books quietly underwater.

Bastakiya Old Town

Coming to the old town of Al Fahidi Bastakiya, you feel lost in the fairyland of ancient Arabian merchants, this historic district like a mysterious maze with two sides of the roads are ancient houses, art galleries, cafes or old-style hotels. An ancient Dubai in the heart of a modern city.

Jumeirah Mosque

Most people of Dubai are Islamic, so their life is greatly influenced by Islamic culture. There are many stunning mosques were built here but the most prominent Islamic structure to mention is the Jumeriah Mosque which was established in 1979.

Not only can accommodate up to 1,200 people, this work also impresses with exquisite and beautiful architecture, from a distance you will see in the middle of the two towers rising high is its spectacular large dome that adorns more the charm of this mosque. This is also the only mosque in Dubai for non-religious visitors, you can visit here 6 times / week.

Address: JumeirahJumeirah 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Dubai Museum

Located in the Fort Al Fahidi, this magnificent Dubai museum was built in 1787 and is the oldest building in Dubai. It was restored in 1971 by the ruler of Dubai and subsequently renovated in 1995, this stunning architecture is home to the city’s heritage and many important historical events. While the main purpose of the museum is to showcase the traditional lifestyle in the emirate of Dubai. It will take you around the many models of metallurgy, pearl farming, fishing or nomadic life of the ancient Arabs.

Address: Al Fahidi Fort – Al Fahidi – Dubai – United Arab Emirates

Wild Wadi Waterpark

You may not know that Wild Wadi Waterpark took its theme from the Juha legend who traveled the world with Sinbad the Sailor. You will exciting with more than 25 unique slides, get a thrill from free fall down from the Jumeirah Sceirah vertical slide at 33 meters or feel like real surfing in Wipeout and Riptide Rides and the Middle East’s largest wave pool – Breaker’s Bay. In addition, there is a lazy river, a botanical garden with more than 40,000 species of trees, plants and a variety of other recreational games.

• Wild Wadi Water Park

Address: Opp. Burj Al Arab – Jumeirah St – Umm SuqeimUmm Suqeim 3 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Opened: February 12, 1998 Hours: 10AM–6PM/Monday: Closed

Altantis Aquaventure Waterpark

Located on the edge of the artificial island of Palm Jumeirah, Aquaventure Waterpark is a huge water park with an area of ​​up to 42 acres. What makes this place so attractive are the dropping towers, high-speed slides and above all, an always-crowded beach.

If you love adventure underwater rides then Aquaventure Waterpark is definitely the place to go. Here, you can take part in The Leap of Faith slide, which is not a spiral or slippery slide, but almost vertical. After leaving the slide spot, you will be taken through a shark-filled tank and a dark tunnel that finally slides out into the park’s main swimming pool.

• Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park

Address: Atlantis The Palm – Crescent Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Opened: September 24, 2008 Hours: 10AM–6PM/Sunday: Closed

• IMG Worlds of Adventure

Another achievement from the Emirate of Dubai is the IMG Worlds of Adventure, which is also the largest indoor park in the world. Coming here, you will definitely be overwhelmed with an ultra-wide area of ​​up to 1.5 million square meters with construction costs of approximately $ 1 billion. This park is divided into 4 zones: Marvel, IMG Avenue, Lost Valley and Cartoon Network. In addition, the games are extremely attractive such as speed rides, roller coaster, 4D movie. It also has a system of 25 stores and a variety of bars, restaurants, serving the needs of dining, entertainment and shopping of travelers.

Address: E311 – Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Opened: August 15, 2016 Hours: 12–9PM

Lost Chambers Aquarium

The largest aquarium in the Middle East and Africa, you will be surrounded by sharks, rays, piranhas, lobsters, seahorses… with up to 65,000 marine creatures in an underwater maze.

Address: Atlantis, The Palm – The Palm Jumeirah – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: 10AM–9PM

Dubai Parks and Resorts

The first entertainment complex in the region with a huge area of ​​over 4 million square meters includes three theme parks, a water park and a family resort in Polynesian style along with other attractions.

• Bollywood, Motiongate And Legoland Tickets At Dubai Parks And Resorts

Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: 11AM–9PM

Dubai has no snow, only hot deserts, so it has built an extremely magnificent indoor artificial snow park. Here, you can completely participate in the exciting skiing sport, very modern and comfortable like the outdoor ski areas. In addition, Ski Dubai is also a venue for major concerts and events. If you feel cold, go to Avanlance Cafe to enjoy a cup of hot chocolate.

• [Sale] Ski Dubai Admission Ticket

Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al BarshaAl Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Height: 85 m Hours: 10AM–11PM

Dubai Garden Glow

Known as the world’s largest family theme park, Dubai Garden Glow will bring visitors to the gardens of light, the world of dinosaurs or ice and snow. The vibrant gardens are made up of millions of shimmering LED lights, inspired by fireworks, nature or the wonders of the world. Or step into the super impressive dinosaur park with more than 100 dinosaur models that give you a clear view of prehistoric times.

• Dubai Garden Glow Ticket

Address: Zabeel Park, Gate No- 6 & 7 Area – B – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: 5–10:30PM

Dubai Dolphinarium – Dolphin & Seal Show

Dubai brings you to many expensive, lavish experiences in which are indispensable for exciting activities. The most impressive is probably admiring the spectacular dolphin and seal show at Dubai Dolphinarium. Not only that, you can also interact with them by swimming with dolphins or feeding them…

• [Sale] Dubai Dolphinarium

Address: Riyadh Street, Inside the Creek Park Gate 1 – Dubai Dolphinarium Building – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Area: 5,000 m² Hours: 10AM–7:30PM/Sunday: Closed

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Along with Lost Chambers Aquarium, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is also a famous artificial aquarium in Dubai. You can have fun here when coming to Dubai Mall. It contains more than 10 million liters of water along with more than 33,000 unique marine creatures. Walking in the middle of the glass tunnels, you can observe the colorful ocean world, the most impressive are alligators with over 5 meters long.

• [Sale] Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo And Penguin Encounter At Dubai Mall

Address: Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Opened: 2008 Hours: 10AM–12AM

Natural attractions

Desert safari.

The one interesting thing of the journey to discover Dubai is that visitors will experience the Desert Safari by special vehicles, experience the feeling of sledding on the sand, riding a camel in the desert or enjoy sunset. At night, visitors can also enjoy BBQ parties, watching traditional belly dance performances on Arabic music and participate in many other special activities such as henna painting, photography with Arabian Costumes…

• Evening Desert Safari Tour with BBQ Dinner

Musandam Sea Safari Cruise

Not only has arid desert, the 5-star yacht will take you on the sea on a journey to explore the beautiful caves and admire the majestic scenery of the Al Hajar Mountains or the weird beauty of rocky islands. Not only that, taking these yacht tours to Musandam Island, you can also join adventure activities such as riding banana boat, snorkeling or immerse yourself in the cool sea water.

Dibba Musandam Sea Safari

Dubai Miracle Garden

Miracle Garden is one of the largest and most beautiful natural flower gardens in the world. Located in Dubailand, it spans an area of ​​more than 190,000 square meters with more than 45 million species of flowers, plants and trees. This place is paradise for those who seeking the beauty of nature in the city. The garden is only open from mid-November to mid-May, so please make sure to visit!

Miracle Garden Entry Ticket in Dubai

Address: Al Barsha South 3 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: 9AM–9PM

Jumeirah Beach

Located close to Buji Khalifa tower and Dubai Mall, Jumeriah beach is truly an ideal place for sunbathing and swimming. Thanks to the possession of turquoise blue waters, Jumeriah beach is a natural paradise for beach lovers, from here you can watch the only 7-star hotel in the world of Burj Al Arab from afar with its splendid beauty. Along this beach there also are many cafes, restaurants, amusement parks.

Dubai Creek

Like a miniature Venice with two banks are beautiful houses. Dubai Creek is a saltwater creek. To explore this place, you can rent an Abra boat to riding along the creek and watching the scenery on the two sides and see firsthand the life of the residents of Dubai along this creek.

Renowned for its excellent quality, diversity of herbs, spices and flavors, the Spice Souk (Spices Market) is also known as Old Souk. This place is all you need to find the best spices. The air is filled with a unique blend of smells, scent, herbs and aromas. Located in Deira district, here you can find other products like Arabic rugs and lanterns, dried fruit and traditional UAE costumes. This is the perfect place in Dubai for souvenir shopping.

Address: 26 34th Street, Dubai Hours: 7:30AM–9:30PM

Not only has gold ATMs, Dubai also has a gold market called Gold Souk. Here, you can freely admire golden jewelry and buy the cheapest gold in the world. Located in Deira, this gold market is Dubai’s most famous and visited tourist place for its excellent quality and the exquisite design of golden jewelry. With more than 350 merchants and retailers, the Gold Souk is supplemented with at least 10 tons of gold per day.

Address: Gold Corner Building, 3rd Floor – Gold Souq – Deira – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: 9:30AM–9:30PM/Friday: 4–9:30PM

Mall of the Emirates

With an area of 2,400,000 square feet (220,000 m2), Mall of the Emirates offers an amazing experience with 475 high-end stores regarding fashion, lifestyle, sports, electronics, furniture… along with children’s play area on the magic planet and cinemas. The best thing is the Ski Resort where you can experience the ultimate ski adventure.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Al BarshaAl Barsha 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: 10AM–12AM Getting there: Take the subway to get to Mall of Emirates station and then walking on skywalk to get to the mall.

The Dubai Mall with an over 12 million square feet is located near Burj Khalifa, is the largest shopping mall in the world. It is also one of the best shopping places in Dubai, this upscale mall has over 1,200 high-end and luxury brand shops, Dubai Aquarium, Underwater Zoo, ice rink, movie theater, amusement parks, Dubai fountain and many restaurants…

Address: Financial Center Street, Along Sheikh Zayed Road, Next to Burj Khalifa – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Floors: 4 Opened: November 4, 2008 Hours: 10AM–12AM Getting there: Take a taxi directly to the mall or take advantage of the subway to Burj Khalifa station and then take a taxi or shuttle bus to the mall.

Ibn Battuta Mall

This mall is located on Sheikh Zayed Road and is designed in honor of Arabian explorer Ibn Battuta. It is divided into 6 areas: India, China, Tunisia, Egypt, Persia and Andalusia with nearly 275 stores. Here, you will be freely to shopping for all kinds of high-end, diverse and items which displayed in a very eye-catching way.

Address: Sheikh Zayed Rd – Jebel Ali Village – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Opened: April 4, 2005 Hours: 10AM–12AM Getting there: The mall is located directly opposite Ibn Battuta MRT station, so getting there by subway is the most convenient option.

City Centre Deira

City Centre Deira is Dubai’s oldest shopping mall located on the waterfront on Port Saeed Road. It is home to all the major brands of dresses, electronics, and decorations as well as local silk, cashmere and local rugs stores. Along with shops, a movie theater, a bowling alley and a magic planet for kids.

Address: 8th St – Port Saeed – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Opened: August 27, 1995 Hours: 10AM–12AM Getting there: Take the metro to the center of Deira or take a taxi.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

It is an Arabian bazaar, a traditional market of Dubai with full of items from fashion, local wares, antiques, souvenirs, perfumes and traditional Arabic rugs to shoes or jewelry.

Address: King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St – Al Sufouh 1 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: 10AM–11PM

Dubai travel blog: What and where to eat?

This Arab emirate is the convergence of delicacies from all over the world with the most luxurious restaurants. Here are the traditional dishes you can not miss when coming to Dubai.

Manousheh (Dubai pizza)

Manousheh is considered a popular dish, a Dubai-style pizza not only loved by locals but also enjoyed by tourists. It is made from flour, Za’atar herbs, salty Akkawi cheese, olive oil and other spices. The most delicious is to enjoy Manousheh with fried eggs, vegetables. You can find it in restaurants or street food vendors.

One of the Dubai specialties is dates, it has a sweet taste, fragrant and especially contains a lot of nutrients. You can find them a lot at markets, shops with 2 different types, dried or marinated. You can enjoy it right on the spot or buy as a gift for your loved ones. The taste of the Dubai dates is sweet without being harsh, is one of the must-try food when traveling to Dubai. Dates are also considered as “love” fruit of the Middle East.

Whole stuffed camel

Whole stuffed camel is a very rare dish that only prepare during major holidays. This dish is famous for its strange and sophisticated processing. To make this dish, it takes 4 men to kill a medium-sized camel, then stuff inside the camel with a sheep or a lamb, in turn stuffed with other ingredients such as chicken. And in the chickens again stuffed with minced meat or fish. Once stuffing is complete, the camel will be roasted until the skin on the outside is golden and the flesh inside gives a seductive flavor.

Luxury Ice Cream

Talking about should try Dubai delicacies, visitors will be overwhelmed when on this list there is also gilded ice cream, the most expensive ice cream in the world. To create this ultimate dish are precious ingredients such as truffles from Italy, Iranian saffron, vanilla from Madagascar and especially coating the cream is a layer of 24 carat gold leaves that can be eaten. You will faint when you know the price for each ice cream is about 900 USD.

Shawarma is a must-try dish in Dubai that appeared in the famous movie The Avenger. This dish can be considered a “distant relative” of Vietnamese bread or Kebab, because it is also a type of “Sandwich Wrap Bread” (Tortilla Sandwich Wrap Bread). With the filling made of chicken or lamb marinated with spices, roasted then thin sliced, wrapped in tortilla, served with cucumber, onion, tomato, cabbage and sauce. The difference of this dish is that instead eat whole like bread, this dish is usually eaten in slices like sushi combine with cabbage salad and dipping in traditional tahini sauce.

Luqaimat (Crunchy Sweet Dumplings)

It is round shaped like fried donut holes, served with sauce and topped with sesame seeds. Although it is a rustic dish, Luqaimat is a very popular street food in Dubai. It is made from dough and other ingredients such as butter, milk, saffron, cardamom… Then fried, the crust is puffy, crunchy and attractive.

Local Bites Cafe (Address: Jumeira Rd, Dubai 33959 United Arab Emirates) in Jumeirah is a good place to try this dish with some hot coffee.

Originating in Palestine which made with shredded filo pastry, or alternatively fine semolina dough, soaked in sweet, sugar-based syrup, and typically layered with sour cheese. This pastry has become a favorite of the locals in the UAE. This pastry should be enjoyed right after it is made to keep its delicious taste.

One of the most popular places to try it is the Qwaider Al Nabulsi Sweets (Address: Deira – Dubai – United Arab Emirates) in Deira. During the month of Ramadan, orders for this dessert can go up to thousands per day because people ask for it for iftar – a Muslim meal at sunset.

Turkish cocktails

It seems that the people of Dubai are very fond of the sweet flavors, cocktails here are more and more delicious and attract many visitors who want to try. Let try out Anatizz Fizz at Ruya Dubai (Address: Al Emreef St – Dubai Marina – Dubai – United Arab Emirates) which is made with sparkling wine, pomegranate honey glaze, citrus, roses and raspberries.

Ruya’s cocktails are based on classic Turkish flavors with ingredients such as hibiscus, rose, pomegranate, honey, spices, citrus and mint. You will not forget this taste once you taste it.

Samboosa (Samosa)

Like many UAE dishes, these hot pastry appetizers are influenced by the flavors and techniques that come from the Arabian Sea, India. A samosa is a fried or baked pastry with a savory filling, such as spiced potatoes, onions, peas, beef and other meats, or lentils but the most popular local version is stuffed with 3 varieties of cheese.

Arabic coffee

Free Arabic coffee is available everywhere in the UAE from government buildings to hotel reception rooms. For delicious coffee, visit Cafe Bateel and try Bateel Qahwa coffee, a traditional Arabic coffee made from premium coffee beans harvested from the mountains of Yemen which is not sweetened with sugar but when paired with Bateel dates.

This tomato-flavored stew filled with heat is cooked with turmeric powder, dill and bezar (a mixed spices similar garam masala), vegetables. Different versions can be found across the city made with chicken or lamb and some are simply made with marrow and potatoes.

These delicious Dubai-style pancakes are usually served for breakfast with butter, honey, sugar, jam. They’re filled with sour cheese and dates syrup. Try this great dish at Logma (Address: Financial Center Rd – Downtown Dubai – Dubai – United Arab Emirates / Hours: 10 AM–12AM).

Where to eat?

From savory to sweet dishes, they’re all delicious and make you want to come back to taste it again. Below are must-go restaurants in Dubai.

Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe

This is one of the few traditional Dubai restaurants and they have an impressive menu that covers everything from meat and rice to desserts, snacks and even breakfast…

Address: Ground Floor, Dubai Festival City Mall, Near P.F.Chang’s, Canal Walk – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: 9AM–10PM

Al Ustad Special Kebab

This is a very famous local restaurant in Dubai and it still attracts a lot of diners to enjoy its food everyday. The restaurant specializes in Iranian cuisine, most famous for its extremely delicious kebab. The kebab marinated with yogurt is very beloved and almost all the dishes that go with the kebab here are stand out. Undoubtedly, it is a meat-lover’s paradise.

Address: Near Al Fahidi Metro Station – Al Mussallah Rd – Al Hamriya – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: 12PM–1AM/Friday: 6PM–1AM

Bu Qtair restaurant started out as a street eatery along the coast and has since evolved into an in-house restaurant but remains in a local style. The seafood dishes are marinated in the South Indian style and then deep fried, giving real delicious taste that is hard to resist.

Address: Old 32B Street, Fishing Harbour 2 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: 11:30AM–11:30PM/Friday: 1–11:30PM

Ravi Restaurant

Ravi restaurant is known in Dubai for serving outstanding Pakistani cuisine. The restaurant attracts visitors by its great space and the food that really makes you satisfied.

Address: 7HQQ67MH+CJ – Al Satwa – Dubai – United Arab Emirates Hours: 5AM–2AM

Dubai blog: Where to stay?

Famous for the most expensive and splendid hotels in the world, but that doesn’t mean you can’t find cheap hotels. Choosing to stay in the central areas is the most convenient, because of the easy access to famous attractions as well as convenient shopping, you should choose to stay in one of the following 4 areas: Downtown Dubai (near Burj Khalifa tower), Dubai marina, Jumeirah beach and The Palm Jumeirah.

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to.

• Atlantis, The Palm , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $528/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $466/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Address Sky View , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $282/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Taj Dubai , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $152/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $328/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Five Jumeirah Village Dubai , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $147/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Dubai travel blog: How many days should I travel to Dubai?

Many tourists wonder how many days should they visit Dubai is enough? In fact, the answer depends on the needs, travel styles and preferences of each person. Some people just come to visit and for them 3 – 5 days might be enough for a quick visit. During this trip, you can visit the most famous attractions and try delicious food.

Some people go to Dubai for shopping, they can stay for a week to have enough time to explore the many shopping malls as mentioned above, one of which is the largest mall in the world, Dubai Mall.

Others come to relax, they can easily spend 2 weeks to have fun at amusement parks, explore aquariums, joining adventure games, outdoor activities, shopping or simple sunbath on the beaches. Many people come and come again because they find Dubai has still many interesting things to explore.

If you are planning an upcoming trip to Dubai, I recommend you should visit here at least a week. Give yourself enough time to really feel the beauty of the city and relaxing.

Dubai blog: Some things you need to know before making a trip to Dubai

• Do not show affection in public areas: As a Muslim country, Dubai has strict regulations on showing affection. Therefore, you should not kiss or hold hands your lover when in public. Many tourists get punishments for doing things like kissing or holding hands in public.
• Don’t stare at women, don’t take photos of locals: These are considered rude in this Muslim emirate.
• Men and women must sit separately, not be allowed to sit together on trains or other public transport.
• Do not eat pork, especially in front of locals: Eating pork is strictly forbidden in Islam.
• During the Ramadan month, do not eat or drink in public or in front of natives.
• It is forbidden to drink alcohol in the emirate of Dubai.
• Alcohol is openly forbidden but you can buy it at duty-free shops at the airport. If you are a tourist, you will not be able to buy alcohol at stores and supermarkets like in Vietnam. If you get drunk in public you get the same penalty as being drunk while driving.
• When visiting mosques, you must dress discreetly, politely, do not wear too short skirts for women, shorts for men and women should wear headscarves, keep quiet and leave shoes outside.

Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Dubai you can refer to

• Shared Transfers between Dubai Hotel and Dubai Attractions
• Private Dubai International Airport (DXB) Transfers for UAE Emirates
• Global Village Ticket in Dubai
• VR Park Dubai Ticket
• Dubai Frame Ticket
• Go Dubai Explorer Pass (3, 4, 5, or 7 Attractions)
• Dubai Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
• Half Day Dubai City Tour
• Half Day City Tour in Dubai with Dubai Frame
• 4G WiFi (DXB Airport Pick Up) for Dubai
• 4G SIM Card (DXB Airport Pick Up) for Dubai

Are you looking for more top things to do in Dubai: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And My trip to Dubai — The memorable experiences in the mysterious city of Middle East .

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Home » Middle East » Itinerary

Dubai Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)

Picture a shimmering city full of sky-high buildings and expansive deserts, plus white-sand beaches and the most luxurious hotels on the planet – that’s Dubai.

With the perfect blend of beachy paradise, historical medinas and an incredible urban environment, Dubai – the crown jewel of the United Arab Emirates – checks every box.

But before you go, it’s a good idea to plan what you want to see and do while you’re in the jewel of the Middle East. There are a ton of attractions in Dubai, and a lot of fun to be had for any type of traveler.

So jet off on an unforgettable holiday, and with our itinerary in hand, you can’t go wrong!

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A Little Bit About This 3-Day Dubai Itinerary

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Dubai is known for being a sparkling skyscraper city in the desert, but it’s more than that. Its history, architecture, souk markets and foodie scene make it a truly memorable city in the UAE! It is a luxury destination, and you will need to save a few pennies to visit Dubai, but not every attraction costs a lot of money. From sprawling parks to incredible museums and the epic Dubai Fountain Show, you’ll find that even backpackers in Dubai can find something inexpensive to do!

Whether you’re spending one day in Dubai for a Middle East layover or planning an unforgettable Dubai itinerary, there are some phenomenal options jostling for a spot on your list! I’d personally suggest taking at least two-three full days to explore the city. If you want to see all of the important landmarks you might be able to fit everything into 24 hours, but that’ll guarantee a lot of stress. So do yourself a favour and set more time aside.

In this itinerary, you’ll find two days packed with the best attractions, culture, history and adventure. But don’t worry, you won’t have to rush from A to B, trying to fit everything in. That way if you’re still deliberating between Dubai and Qatar , this might settle it for you!

I’ve chosen the ideal daily structure, added times, routes to get there and suggestions on how long you should spend at each spot. Of course, you can add your own spots in, swap things around, or even skip some places. Use this itinerary as inspiration instead of a fixed plan to get the most out of your trip!

3 Day Dubai Itinerary Overview

• Day 1: Dubai Frame  |  Dubai Garden Glow  |  Museum of Illusions  |  Burj Khalifa  |  Dubai Water Canal
• Day 2: Dubai Marina  |  Dubai Miracle Garden  |  Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo  |  Ski Dubai  |  City Walk
• Day 3: Palm Jumeirah  |  Al Qudra Lakes  |  Wild Wadi Waterpark  |  Global Village  |  Burj Al Arab and Kite Beach  |  Evening Desert Safari Tour

With a Dubai City Pass , you can experience the best of Dubai at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Finding the best places to stay in Dubai  can be quite tough as you are spolied for choice. Whether you want beachy warmth, city vibes or old-school Arabia, Dubai has something for everyone.

The Dubai Marina is a fantastic place to stay in Dubai, right on the coastline with excellent restaurants, cityscape views, and the Marina Walk, which is a great way to scope out your next landmark to visit. Downtown Dubai also has a fantastic blend of eateries, attractions and Dubai photo ops!

If you’re looking for a taste of history, head for one of Downtown Dubai’s historical areas including Dubai Creek, Deira or Al Fahidi, where you can find the fascinating and oh-so-good smelling Coffee Museum in Old Dubai. You can also find the iconic and deeply impressive IMG Worlds of Adventure fun park in the City of Arabia medina.

Across the city lies Al Quoz, the bohemian art hub of Dubai with its beautifully designed buildings, cafes and street performances. Bur Dubai is another prime spot with a plethora of museums and historical buildings to discover in central Dubai.

One of the best and most unique places in Dubai is the Palm Jumeirah, where seaside resorts and water sports reign supreme!

We have hand picked a few of our favourite accomodation options and listed them below. In case nothing takes your fancy though, we also have our epic Best Hostels in Dubai post.

Best Hostel in Dubai – Backpacker 16 Hostel

Enjoy an amazing sense of community and fun at this superb Dubai hostel! With a prime location near the Dubai Marina and just 5 minutes away from the Dubai Internet City metro station, the Backpacker 16 Hostel makes the perfect spot if you’re backpacking through Dubai! With its warm atmosphere, well-decorated interior and wonderful staff, you’ll find a home-away-from-home right in the heart of Dubai.

Best Airbnb in Dubai – Bright Room in Shared Villa

Enjoy staying just outside of the hustle and bustle at this villa in Dubai near the beach! It’s just footsteps from the sea and provides beach towels during your stay. Hang out in the large living space right outside your bedroom door that is decked out with large comfy sofas, coffee tables, books, board games and a massive TV with both cable and Netflix. Perfect for couples looking to have a lazy weekend stay.

Best Budget Hotel in Dubai – Maisan Hotel

The Maisan Hotel has all the makings of a fantastic Dubai getaway. With an amazing fitness center, a stunning sun terrace and a delicious continental breakfast served every morning, the Maisan checks all the boxes. You can also enjoy nearby attractions like the Nakheel Harbor, Burj Al Arab and Dubai Parks and Resorts. The hotel also happens to be pet-friendly, need we say more?

Best Luxury Hotel in Dubai – Raffles Dubai

Find yourself at the height of luxury in this pyramid-inspired hotel in Bur Dubai. The hotel boasts an incredible spa and outdoor pool as well as amazing on-site eateries, including the Raffles Salon (which serves traditional afternoon tea). As proof that Dubai does nothing by halves, the stunning decor, private balcony and butler service are what awaits you at this incredible hotel, which makes quite the landmark on Dubai’s skyline!

If you’re looking for the best things to see, places to eat and Dubai-standard activities to partake in, our top-notch itinerary has everything and more. Whether you’re spending 2 days in Dubai or looking for a mammoth Dubai itinerary (4 days or more), I’ve got you covered. Enjoy Dubai’s architectural feats or indoor snow parks, and every attraction in between! There are so many things to do and see in Dubai that you will struggle to fit it all in!

The first day of your itinerary in Dubai is going to take you around some of the best Dubai museums, art installations, and attractions in the city. Why wait to see the best?

9:00am – Dubai Frame

Begin your visit to the city with one of the top places in Dubai, the iconic Dubai Frame that overlooks the entire city. The Dubai Frame is the largest picture frame on the planet!

The frame forms a doorway of sorts between Dubai’s storied past, its vibrant present and the city’s bright future. On one side, visitors can see the modern Emirates Towers and Burj Khalifa, while ancient Deira and Karama can be seen on the other.

The frame has become a true emblem of the city and sits at the top of many travel wish lists (and features in many an Instagram post)!

• Cost – Dhs 50 ($14) for adults, Dhs 20 ($6) for children over the age of 3, and free entry for infants and visitors with disabilities.
• Getting there: Take the metro to Al Jafiliya and walk for 5 minutes to Zabeel Park in Zabeel.
• How long you should stay: 30 minutes should be enough to get a good photo.

10.00am – Dubai Garden Glow

Experience this unique celebration of light where artists from across the globe have contributed incredible creations.

This illuminating venue has a heart for the environment with many exhibits being eco-friendly.

Walk through the parks many shimmering zones as you admire giant floating jellyfish moving with the music over Zabeel Lake, or admire the sight of a mini sparkling Burj Khalifa.

You can explore the stunning Glow Park, the largest glow-in-the-dark garden in the world, where millions of energy-saving bulbs and endless sculptures of recycled luminous fabric fill the pathways with light!

Then, head to the Art Park, which is made of recyclable bottles, ceramic dishes and CDs, all designed into incredible artworks.

Finish your visit to Dubai Garden Glow with a walk round My Dubai, a glittering recreation of Dubai, in a park that feels like it was plucked out of a fairytale (especially with a life-size replica of Cinderella’s glowing carriage)!

Insider Tip: Look out for the new additions to the park, some colorful characters from Disney’s colorful repertoire.

• Cost: Dhs 65 ($18) and children under 3 enter for free.
• Getting there: Take the metro to Al Jafiliya. The Dubai Garden Glow is a 16-minute walk away.
• How long should you stay there? 1-2 hours

12:00 pm – Dubai Museum of Illusions

Enjoy an incredible trip through mind-bending illusions and fascinating tricks of the light at the Dubai Museum of Illusions.

Visitors are encouraged to interact with exhibits and take tons of pictures, which you will definitely want to do.

With more than 80 uncredible exhibits that take you through a visual, sensory, and educational world to trick your brain, entertain and make you think. Play with perception at the Chair Illusion or enjoy the unbelievable sight of the Split Nose face-changing mirror (where your face is spliced with a person on the other side).

Enjoy the novelty of the Ames Room, where a trick of perception makes one person giant and the other tiny. For the videographer in you, check out the Color Room for some exceedingly awesome illusion of color and shadow!

Don’t miss out on the hilarious Maple exhibit were a fascinating mirror trick lets you have dinner with yourself. The incredible museum is also home to the world’s first Zoetrope exhibit where you can step into a movie stars shoes as you become part of an animated sequence!

• Cost: Dhs 80 ($22) for adults, Dhs 70 ($19) for senior citizens and Dhs 60 ($16) for children.
• Getting there: Take the metro to Al Fahidi and walk for 5 minutes.
• How long should I spend there? 1-2 hours.

2.00pm – Arabian Tea House Cafe

Enjoy tasty cuisine from a diverse menu in their quaint courtyard. The ambiance of this tea house is serene and the staff is willing to help. The food is delicious, affordable and you get a decent-sized plate. Don’t forget to try Moroccan tea!

• Cost: depending on your order
• Getting there: it’s a 5 minute walk from Sharaf DG metro station.
• How long should I spend there? 1-2 hours

4.00pm – Burj Khalifa & Dubai Fountain

You can’t visit Dubai, the city known for its incredible architecture, without checking out the Burj Khalifa ! It is home to the world’s highest restaurant!

As the world’s tallest building with numerous awards for its feats of height, the spectacular skyscraper makes for an incredible sight! It is also the home to the pretty amazing Dubai fountain illuminated by 6600 lights, 50 colored projectors, which illuminate the tower as spouts of water shoot through the air.

The Dubai Fountain Show is one of the best attractions around the Dubai Mall. It puts on quite the show to the sound of classical and contemporary music, and holds the crown as the second-largest choreographed fountain in the world!

The Burj Khalifa also has an amazing observation platform with a view to match. Literally, At The Top on the 124th floor is decked out with an electronic telescope and an augmented reality device where visitors can view the surrounding landscape in real-time.

You can also admire the impressive skyscraper from a spot in the lush park surrounding it, which is designed in the shape of a Hymenocallis, a fitting desert plant. The park also has a water feature at its center with a series of pools and a serene water jet fountain!

Insider Tip: the best time to visit the Burj Khalifa is to watch the sunset but between 4 pm and 6 pm, it is also prime time so reservations are more expensive.

• Cost: Dhs 135 ($37) for adults, Dhs 101 ($28) for children and free for toddlers under 4 years old for a tour round At The Top; you can book tickets here.
• Getting there: Burj Khalifia is located in Downtown Dubai, next to the Dubai Mall. Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa Metro Station and then take the F13 bus to the Dubai Mall Bus Stop (one stop).
• How long should I spend there? 1-2 hours, then you can dive into Dubai mall for some A/C!

7.00pm – Dubai Water Canal

Take a stroll along the beautiful Dubai Water Canal as it winds along from Old Dubai, through Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and meets the sea on Dubai’s coastline. The bridge created a new island in Dubai when it was created.

Take in the sight of the canal’s unbelievable automated waterfall, which falls back like a curtain as boats pass under it! There is also the stunning pedestrian bridge adorned with a shimmering blue arc draped lights, which illuminate the water below you. The pedestrian bridge is suspended by cables and makes for an amazing photo spot!

You can also explore further along Dubai’s landscape as you follow the Dubai saltwater creek, which winds like a ribbon across the city. The gorgeous canal with its cloak of lights makes for one of the best places to visit in Dubai at night!

• Cost: it’s free!
• Getting there: take the red line on the metro to Business Bay metro station, then walk towards Sheikh Zayed Road. There is a path by the bridge that takes you to the canal.
• How long should I spend there? 1-2 hours, it’s a great place to catch the sunset!

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The second day of our Dubai itinerary will take you to the Dubai Mall where you will see a whole host of attractions. You could spend a whole day there, but because you’re on vacation, I’ve selected some cool outdoor attractions to visit too.

10.00 am – Dubai Marina

Begin your second day in Dubai at the lapping water of the Dubai Marina, one of the best places to visit in Dubai for free! t is the home to some incredible Dubai architecture including the unbelievable Cayan Tower, which twists at 90 degrees.

This stunning canal was built along the Persian Gulf shoreline and you may even be able to spot some incredible sea life as you enjoy the view!

The sun-kissed promenade is well worth the fantastic views of the bay, where you can experience the perfect blend of beach and vibrant urban activity.

You can take a leisurely stroll down the immaculate Jumeirah Beach Residence Walk where top-quality boutiques and unbelievable restaurants are the order of the day, then find Dubai Marina’s gorgeous beach waiting for you at the end of it!

• Getting there: take the metro to Damac Properties Station and cross the overpass.
• How long should I spent there? 1-2 hours should be enough.

11.00am – Dubai Miracle Garden

If you’re looking for a Dubai attraction that may literally take your breath away, the Miracle Garden is the answer.

The Miracle Garden has the Dubai Butterfly Garden inside, which is the world’s largest butterfly sanctuary, with over 15 000 butterflies from 26 species!

Explore the giant park with what seems like an endless collection of flowers. Colors cascade across the garden with floral animals and incredible sculptures covered in blossoms create a dreamlike landscape!

You can wander at the Lost Paradise, a village of bungalows and houses, which are engulfed flowers of every color. This burst of color on Dubai’s landscape is also the home to a giant model of the Emirates A830, which is painted with a splash of blossoms, while an incredible floral clock stops time as you explore this flower-strewn wonderland!

As if this place could get more fantastic, there is an 18 m high Mickey Mouse who gazes over the garden’s visitors! The park just happened to be launched on Valentine’s Day and aptly has the iconic Heart’s Passage, where larger-than-life hearts create an amazing walkway that feels everlasting.

Floral animals graze in front of a glorious floral castle in this dreamy park, which is truly a ‘must-see’ in Dubai!

Insider tip: make sure you keep an eye out for the new addition of colorful characters from Disney’s famous movies.

• Cost: Dhs 50 ($14) for adults, Dhs 40 ($11) for children under 12 years old, free for children under 2 years old and people with disabilities.
• Getting there: take the metro to the Dubai Mall of the Emirates station and walk.
• How long should I spent there? 1-2 hours is fine.

1.00pm – Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Dive into Dubai’s natural side at the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, where aquatic creatures and incredible underwater sights abound!

You can enjoy a unique, close-up look at the lives of some incredible aquatic creatures with the aquarium’s fully immersive VRZOO!

Enter the world of sharks, where you can free dive or hop into a cage for the ultimate shark encounter. Then, get a behind-the-scenes look as you watch baby sharks have feeding time and get a peek into the life of these vastly misunderstood creatures.

Say goodbye to the sharks and get ready to be royally entertained by King Croc, an incredible (and lengthy) saltwater crocodile. At 40 years old, the King is one of the largest known crocodiles in the world and his majesty is unmissable on a trip to the aquarium!

The aquarium’s massive 10 million liter tank is filled with creatures of the deep and some of the most unbelievable marine life. Enjoy a look at the largest group of sand tiger sharks in the world and meander through an indigo tunnel where you can admire some of the aquarium’s 33 000 aquatic animals.

Add a slice of Dubai’s desert to your experience with a visit to the Night Creatures exhibit, which is home to a menagerie of animals, including Arabian toads, fruit bats, giant camel spiders, scorpions, veiled chameleons, Cheesman’s gerbils and (prepare yourself) hedgehogs!

Don’t forget to jump aboard one of the aquarium’s stellar glass-bottomed boats for a ride over the underwater wonderland, where over 140 incredible species reside!

• Cost: Depending on your ticket, you can pay from Dhs 145 ($39) for a general ticket up to Dhs 630 ($172) to include the Shark Encounter; you can book your tickets here .
• Getting there: head to the Dubai Mall. Take the metro to Burj Khalifa/The Dubai Mall station.
• How long should I spent there? 2-3 hours, there’s so much to see!

3.00pm – Ski Dubai

For the ultimate meeting of 2 worlds, why not take a trip to Ski Dubai, a snowy oasis in the middle of the desert!

The ski park is a snowy oasis beneath one of Dubai’s biggest malls – The Dubai Mall.

Hidden like a treasure in the Dubai Mall (which is already one of the most important places in Dubai) awaits this indoor playground for kids, adults, and skiing newbies.

In fact, it’s the perfect place to learn with less pressure than a real mountain, and trainers to help you find your feet. Then again, if you’re a pro at snow sports, it’s got some real doozies for you to enjoy.

You can stick to more traditional activities like skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing, or take a ski lift out of your comfort zone with zip lining, tubing, or an old-fashioned snowball fight! The Snow Park is a winner with giant zorbing on offer as well as exploring an ice cave or getting an adrenaline rush on the Mountain Thriller ride.

You can even feel like you’re in the Arctic Circle as you watch a colony of penguins waddle around their snowy home!

• Cost: Prices vary but the penguin encounter is Dhs 230 ($63); get full-day-ski-pass here .
• Getting there: It is located within the Dubai Mall, just walk around to it.
• How long should I spent there? 1 hour – it gets quite cold in there!

6.00pm – City Walk

Feel the heartbeat of Dubai as you hit the jam-packed streets of the City Walk, an unmissable part of any Dubai city tour itinerary!

Some of the world’s most famous urban artists were invited to fill the walls of City Walk with color, including murals and smaller designs.

Enjoy the sights along the boulevard of eateries, bars, boutique stores and quirky landmarks, including an old-school postbox and phonebooth nestled amongst the buildings. Visit Dubai’s larger-than-life, famous characters of Mattel Play! Town.

Then, find yourself in the lush and fascinating rainforest (in a desert!) at The Green Planet! You can stroll through the incredible indoor park and experience over 3000 plants and animals, including snakes, birds, and, pop culture icon, the sloth. Butterflies and stunning flowers take center stage as you explore this forested wonderland.

There’s no end to the epic attractions and landmarks you’ll see on a trip down Dubai’s incredible street with just about everything on it!

• Cost: Entrance is free to the City Walk, but The Green Planet tickets go for Dhs 99 ($27) or more depending on the package.
• Getting there: it’s right by the mall!
• How long should I spent there? 1-2 hours.

Backpacker 16 Hostel

With its warm atmosphere, well-decorated interior and wonderful staff, you’ll find a home-away-from-home right in the heart of Dubai.

• 24-hour Reception

Whether you’re looking for incredible places to visit in Dubai in 5 days or spending a weekend in Dubai, you won’t be disappointed. If you’ve covered our 2-day itinerary and are looking for more, take a look at these beyond-amazing options for 3 days in Dubai (or more)!

10.00am – Palm Jumeirah

Aah, the Palm Jumeirah. Is it shaped like a palm? Is it a man-made island off the coast of Dubai? Is it exceedingly cool? The answer to every question is yes, so the Palm Jumeirah easily earns its spot on any itinerary.

The stunning island paradise extends into the shimmering Persian Gulf and is part of a family of Palm Islands including the Palm Jebel Ali and Plam Deira. Ride the uber fast monorail from the mainland and bask in the sandy paradise.

You’ll also find an array of exciting activities amongst the fronds of the magnificent Palm. Spend a few fun-filled hours at the Aquaventure Waterpark at the palatial, rose-colored Atlantis hotel.

Want to know why it’s worth visiting?

• It is an incredible architectural feat.
• It was built to resemble a stylised palm tree surrounded by a circle.
• It is the home to some truly spectacular beaches in Dubai!

You can also meander through The Lost Chambers Aquarium, where you can get into a spot of snorkeling or dive through refreshing lagoons, the home to a world of marine life!

We’re not done yet, see the island from the waves as you take a speedboat tour around its waterways or hop on a kayak as you explore the Palm’s crescent. You can even play Aquaman for the day with Hydro Water Sports where you can soar above the water on a water spout.

Take your trip to the Palm Jumeirah to new heights with a helicopter tour or a session of tandem skydiving, where the views are breathtaking and the thrill is real!

• Cost: It’s free!
• Getting there: take the metro to Dubai Internet City or Nakheel and walk.
• How long should I spend there? 1 hour should be enough

12.00pm – Al Qudra Lakes

Take a trip just out of the city as you journey to Dubai’s hidden gems , the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve. You can spot an array of reptiles, birds, and mammals.

It is the perfect place for star-gazing because of its low light pollution. You can enjoy the reserve’s sights from one of the world’s longest cycling tracks.

These man-made wetlands are a glorious escape from Dubai’s urban hub where 10 km of lakes make for an unbelievable sight. The reserve is the safe haven to 19 animal species including elegant flamingos and other incredible birdlife.

It is also the home to the amazing Saruq Al Hadid Archaeological Site withall kinds of artifacts including bronze, copper and iron items as well as gold jewelry, beads and pottery. Make this an oasis of tranquility as you hike through the park, watch the sunset or pitch your tent for a night of camping under the stars!

For a spot of nature-watching just outside of the city, visit the Al Qudra Lakes, one of the best places to see in Dubai with family.

• Getting there: take bus 67 to Endurance City Terminus

2.00pm – Wild Wadi Waterpark

Take your thrill factor the maximum at the incredible Wild Wadi Waterpark where having fun and cooling off are top priority!

Home to Breaker’s Bay, the biggest wave pool in the Middle East. Created the Burj Surj, a double-bowled slide which is the first of its kind in the area. The park was featured in 3 seasons of The Amazing Race.

The theme park is based on the tales of Juha, a character from Arabian folklore who accompanies each heart-fluttering or jaw-dropping water slide. You can even learn to surf on one of the park’s artificial surfing machines, FlowRider.

The park is among impressive company with neighboring, Burj Al Arab, but with its unbelievable 18 m high waterfall, it fits right in! Wild Wadi is also home to a list of incredible rides including the Jumeirah Sceirah (the highest free-fall water slide with the biggest drop outside of the Americas).

Up the ante even more with the Tantrum Alley slide, which just happens to include 3 tornados!

• Cost: Above 1.1 meter, AED 299. Below 1.1 metre, AED 249.
• Getting there: take the metro to Wild Wadi metro station.
• How long should I spend there? 2-3 hours.

4.00pm – Global Village

Take a trip around the world from this incredible corner of Dubai. With exhibits, attractions and cuisine representing 90 cultures from across the globe, Dubai’s Global Village makes for a world-class day out.

The park has some sensational themed rides including the Athen’s Slingshot or the Honolo-loop.

The stunning Wheel of the World displays incredible live scenes, shows and Dubai scenery on its LED screen, and the views from one of its gondolas are incredible. Performers from across the world share their traditional dances and music in a variety of cultural shows!

The lively festival takes place along a number of pavilions where cuisine and entertainment from the representing countries are at your fingertips. Enjoy a meander through the park as you enjoy attractions from the floating market to the Heritage Village.

There are also some stunning shows on offer including incredible stunts and Circus Circus. Then, find yourself an unbelievable ride to go on at Carnaval! Enjoy the rhythmic vibe of the Global Village as you traverse the streets of what could be described as an open-air museum!

The village is also a paradise for lovers of street food with an adventurous palette. Take a walk down Kiosk Street or Cultural Square and find yourself some not-so-local cuisine. You can also discover some delicious flavors at every pavilion as you eat your way across the world.

Give Canadian poutine a try, which is a mouthwatering mixture of crispy French fries covered in cheese curd, gravy and toppings of your choice. Check out the Flaming Pumpkin for a refreshing drink on your travels and then, if you needed any more convincing, get yourself a shot of something tasty the Chocolate Injection!

Insider Tip: the village runs from November to April each year so be sure to book your ticket then if you’d like to visit the Global Village!

• Cost: 20 AED per person
• Getting there: take the bus, Route 102 from Rashidiya Metro Station.

5.00pm – Burj Al Arab and Kite Beach

Pay a visit to one of the tallest hotels in the world, the Burj Al Arab, which sits on an artificial island just off Jumeirah Beach. Made in the likeness of the sail of a ship, the hotel has become a truly iconic Dubai landmark with a reputation in luxury!

You can admire the impressive Burj Al Arab as you bask in the sandy haven of Kite Beach. Walk along the pristine white sand or engage in one of the many ocean activities including kitesurfing, beach tennis, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, volleyball, kayaking and swimming. Aptly named for everything this beach has to offer, the gorgeous piece of Dubai is situated in gorgeous Jumeirah.

There are also plenty of food trucks and beachside eateries for you to partake in!

• Cost: free!
• Getting there: take the metro to Mankhool, Standard Chartered Bank station.
• How long should I spend there? 2 hours max.

7.00pm – Evening Desert Safari Tour

Booking this 4×4 desert tour to end your stay in Dubai is definitely worth it. Seeing the desert on the back of a camel is a one-of-a-time experience that can only be topped by testing out your sandboarding skills.

There’s no need for transportation, you’ll be picked up right at your hotel. At the end of the trip, you’ll also get a tasty BBQ to fill your empty stomach!

Ride on camels, surf down massive sand dunes and explore and learn more about the desert!

• Cost: depending on package
• How to get there: hotel pick up! Niceee
• How long should I spend there? Around 3 hours.

Since it is smack dab in the middle of the Arabain desert, the weather of Dubai can be quite harsh, making it hard to decide when in fact is the best time to visit .

Dubai summers are oppressive, almost unbearable sometimes, and will often leave you trapped indoors. The best places to visit in Dubai in June, July and August will all have air conditioning and sometimes even artificial snow!

Dubai’s winter months are the most comfortable time of year and are comparable to summers elsewhere. Most of Dubai’s landmarks will be very busy though as this is peak tourist season. Plan a visit to during Dubai’s winter season but be ready to spend lots of cash.

The best months to backpack Dubai are hands-down during the spring and autumn. Dubai’s shoulder seasons are comfortable, not too hot, and not too busy with tourists. As such, these are the best times to visit Dubai’s beaches. Dubai in May starts to heat up again so take note.

It’s no surprise that Dubai is a pretty big city with loads of interesting attractions to see and do. Luckily, getting around is super easy, thanks to its well-developed public transport network spread throughout all parts of the city. 

The metro is the most commonly used public transport in the city. It connects most neighborhoods and it’s just two lines, so it’s really easy to navigate and it’s also the most cost-effective way to get around. They are clean, ultra-modern, and safe. Women can choose to use the women-only carts if they want to. Plus, it connect you all the way to Dubai International Airport.

Another way to get around the city is by taxi. Uber and Careem are the common taxi service apps in Dubai. They are more expensive than a licensed taxi usually, but they offer a flat rate, which means if you get stuck in traffic you’re not paying for it. As a rule of thumb, Careem is less expensive than Uber if you’re travelling shorter distances and Uber is less expensive than Careem for longer distances.

Finally, another way to get around Dubai is by taking the bus. There are a total of 1,518 buses in Dubai, running on 119 internal lines, including 35 lines connected to the metro stations. Buses are a cheap way of getting around, but they require a bit of searching to make sure you’re on the right bus. As Dubai is so hot and it’s no fun waiting around in the scorching heat for a bus, I recommend you get the metro and Ubers. Plus they are so cheap it makes perfect sense!

Stash your cash safely with this money belt. It will keep your valuables safely concealed, no matter where you go.

It looks exactly like a normal belt  except for a SECRET interior pocket perfectly designed to hide a wad of cash, a passport photocopy or anything else you may wish to hide. Never get caught with your pants down again! (Unless you want to…)

Coming prepared is one of the most important parts of travelling, no matter where you want to go. Although Dubai is considered to be one of the safest cities in the United Arab Emirates. It is also known as one of the safest middle eastern destinations for women and travelers in general. However, it is still wise to take precautions and know the country you’re visiting while traveling abroad.

• It is recommended that travelers who visit Dubai, especially women, dress fairly modestly in public, and bathing suits are only allowed on the beach and at hotel pools. While women are generally safe in Dubai, It is also a good idea to avoid situations that can place you in a more vulnerable position. If traveling alone, ask to be seated in the family section and try to sit in the women’s section at the front of the train.
• There can also be unpredictable driving behavior in the United Arab Emirates, so keep an eye out for reckless driving. Pickpocketing is fairly rare in Dubai, but pay attention to your surroundings (as is always wise when traveling), especially around the tourist hub, Jumeirah Beach.
• While Dubai is fairly cosmopolitan in many ways, they remain highly conservative, so try to avoid PDA because if someone is offended by it, you can get charged/fined. It is also forbidden to eat in public during the daylight hours of Ramadan, however, most hotels provide a screen in their restaurants so foreign guests can eat during the day.

Dubai is considered to be friendly and safe for the most part, but make sure you check out all the rules and tips for traveling there before you go. As you are likely traveling in a foreign country, ensure you have access to emergency numbers in case of an accident or problem. It’s also always a good idea to have travel insurance in the event of a problem. 

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

It’s good to get lost sometimes, but it’s also good not to get too lost. There are people that want you home in one piece.

There’s one travel insurance provider The Broke Backpacker trusts for all his wildest shenanigans… World Nomads!

Click the button below to get a quote on your insurance or read our in-depth review of World Nomads’ coverage. And then… let the shenanigans begin. ?

Find out what people want to know when planning their Dubai itinerary.

Is 7 days in Dubai enough?

7 days in Dubai is ideal if you want to get in all the top attractions. Any extra days for lounging at the beach are a bonus!

What are the best things to include on a 5 day Dubai itinerary?

Don’t miss out on the Dubai Frame, the Garden Glow, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, and the City Walk.

Where is the best place to stay if you have a full Dubai travel itinerary?

Jumeirah and Downtown Dubai are ideal as they’re close to all of the top landmarks.

Is Dubai worth visiting?

Some say Dubai is overrated , but there’s still lots to discover. It’s a great place for foodies, architecture lovers, and anyone who’s keen to learn more about emirates culture. However, it can be expensive to travel in Dubai .

So there you have it! Our 3 day itinerary for Dubai. As you can see, there are a ton of awesome attractions to get stuck into.

When you want to find yourself in fantastic shopping malls, desert-defying activities or just lying on the beaches in this incredible city – you’ll have the best time.

Take your sense of adventure, your sunglasses, and this itinerary to guarantee a trip you’ll never forget!

Insider Tip: If you don’t want to spend hours in the car, driving from one hot spot to the next, you should check out this helicopter tour .

Instead of exploring the city from below, you can simply fly over Dubai and have an amazing adventure that not many people get to experience.

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I’m again heading to Dubai at the beginning of June for 3 days, and I’m trying to plan my itinerary. I’m so glad I stumbled upon this post, it is going to be very helpful!

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My Dubai itinerary 8 days: My incredible itinerary for a family holiday to Dubai

By: Author Monica

Categories UAE

I’ve just returned from the most incredible 8 days in Dubai! It was a family holiday to Dubai with Emirates Holidays and we found this 8 day Dubai itinerary to be just perfect. It includes staying in two different hotels/resorts and has a really nice range of activities for the whole family.

Here’s my Dubai itinerary for 8 days….

If you’ve been following me on social media you will have seen our family holiday to Dubai all week because we had such an incredible time there. I’d go as far to say that our holiday to Dubai was the best family holiday we’ve ever taken. Honestly, it was THE dream!

Dubai is the perfect destination for families because it’s so family friendly and our 8 day Dubai itinerary made sure everyone was happy. There were fancy dinners and cocktails as well as waterparks, theme parks, shopping and plenty of time to chill.

I travelled to Dubai with my partner, Sam, and our two little boys, George (3) and Joseph (1.5) and it can be difficult to find activities that everyone genuinely loves, but we definitely got the perfect balance.

If you aren’t sure if Dubai is the perfect destination for your family, check out my post: 10 reasons why you should take your kids to Dubai.

My kids are older now but George still remembers this holiday. They also watch that YouTube video I made all the time and they LOVE it. They’re always asking to go back so we’re definitely going to have to go back at some point. Side note: If I was to go back again with older kids I’d definitely do things like desert safari tours Dubai ! The kids were too little when we went but they’d love this now.

Here’s what we got up to during our family holiday to Dubai

Day 1 – fly to dubai with emirates.

It’s a 7 hour flight to Dubai from Manchester and we flew with Emirates who were incredible. It was our first long flight with both the boys so we were a little nervous, but we definitely didn’t need to be!

Flying long-haul with kids is actually much easier than short-haul.

When we fly short-haul we usually travel with budget airlines and the tiny seats and tiny aisles make it difficult! But Emirates were incredible and they’re obviously used to taking lots of families to Dubai! We had bulk-head seats so the boys had plenty of space and the lovely Emirates staff couldn’t do enough to help. Kids get toys and activity packs when you board the plane and the entertainment system is incredible. George didn’t even get his toys out of his bag because he was busy with the games and shows on the inflight system.

Arrive at Lapita Hotel

For our first two nights, we were staying at Lapita , a beautiful Polynesian themed resort within Dubai Parks and Resorts . The family-friendly hotel has that perfect balance between luxury, comfort and laid-back friendliness.

We were all tired when we arrived but the lovely staff perked us up, and a tour around the resort on a buggy impressed the boys!

Our huge room was elegant and homey and we were welcomed with the most incredible fruit basket, a delicious red velvet cake shaped like a tool box (we’re not sure if they knew Sam is a builder or if this was coincidence!) and little cupcakes with extra treats on the side for the boys to decorate them.

We ordered room service, put the boys to bed and enjoyed a glass of wine on the balcony overlooking the pool that was twinkling with pretty lights. Ahhh, finally we were relaxed and on holiday!

It has been snowing when we’d left Manchester 10 hours earlier and it felt so surreal to be sat on this incredible balcony feeling warm and relaxed while listening to the crickets. That snowy drive to the airport felt like a million years ago.

It had been a surprisingly easy journey to Dubai so it was the perfect start to the family holiday.

Day 2 – LEGOLAND

We all slept late due to jetlag so dashed to the hotel buffet for breakfast at 10.45am!

Sleeping past 10am is a rare treat when you’ve got toddlers so this was a good morning for us!

The breakfast buffet at Lapita was incredible and we enjoyed it outside looking out over the bright flowers.

Sam and I had our coffees in the sunshine while the boys chased the little birds who came to pick up their crumbs.

We then made our way to Dubai Parks and Resorts which is connected to the hotel. I’ve written a whole post about Dubai Parks and Resorts because it’s amazing and a lot of people don’t seem to know it’s there and it’s a must-see during a family holiday to Dubai!

It’s a leisure and theme park destination and is home to:

• LEGOLAND Dubai
• LEGOLAND Dubai Waterpark
• Motiongate Dubai
• Bollywood Parks Dubai
• Riverland Dubai

Riverland isn’t a theme park, it’s the gateway to the theme parks and has four zones; The French Village, Boardwalk, India Gate, and The Peninsula.

Our hotel room at Lapita was by the entrance to the French Village and very close to LEGOLAND (less than 10 minute walk) so it was a perfect position for a young family who don’t want to be walking far.

We had a stroll through the very pretty French Village which has lots of shops, cafes and restaurants before spending the remainder of the day at LEGOLAND.

LEGOLAND was brilliant and it’s so nice that the boys are finally at an age where they appreciate things like this. There are over 40 LEGO themed rides and attractions and it’s aimed at kids ages 2-12, but even Joseph (aged 18 months) loved it.

There are lots of exciting soft play areas, a medieval land and he loved watching his big brother driving cars and boats and riding trains. There was a lot that even George was too small for but it was still worth it and a really fun afternoon out.

We ate at the Market Restaurant which was delicious and had loads of nice options for kids.

We bribed the kids out of LEGOLAND with ice creams and walked back to the hotel to cool off in the pool at Lapita. This hotel pool is one of the best I’ve ever been to because it has a gorgeous lazy river running around it and the kid’s pool was huge. And to make it even better, they were both heated and were perfectly warm. We had a splash about and then went to the hotel buffet for dinner.

Day 3 – LEGOLAND Waterpark

On our third day we spent a few more hours at LEGOLAND but then headed next door to LEGOLAND Waterpark. This waterpark was perfect for us because it’s aimed at younger kids (ages 2-12 again). The boys had a lot of fun splashing and Sam made it onto a few of the bigger rides too.

We had lunch at a pretty bakery in the French Village and as we sat outside watching the world go by you could easily forget where you were and think you’re in France for a moment!

Our 8 day Dubai itinerary suggests swapping hotels during your stay and I can’t recommend doing this enough. It almost felt like we had two mini holidays. I know it seems like a bit of a faff to repack your bags and move but it was so exciting and it was amazing to experience two hotels!

Moving hotels…

Late that afternoon we left Lapita for the second half of our Dubai and itinerary! We took a taxi to our second hotel, the famous Atlantis the Palm , and wow, what a hotel.

I instantly felt like I was cheating on Lapita because I’d loved our time at Lapita – it was beautiful and chilled and friendly and fun, but Atlantis the Palm is something else entirely. This hotel definitely gets a gold star for first impressions. We had to pick our jaws up off the floor as we walked along the red carpet guiding us into the magnificent lobby and through to a luxury lounge filled with roses while we waited to check in.

The main lobby was bustling with people who were just visiting to see the hotel and we felt incredibly lucky to be staying here.

We were staying in a two bedroom Terrace club suite so we had some special extras thanks to our fancy room. Checking in in this lovely lounge was one of them but we also had access to different lounges around the hotel where drinks and snacks were served all day. When someone says ‘snacks’ I imagine it will be crisps and salted peanuts and possibly a Ritz cracker if you’re lucky but it was actually a mini buffet we could access for most of the day! It was amazing. But not as amazing as our room….

We were escorted up to our rooms on the 14 th floor. Yes, that’s right, roomS. Plural! We walked into a huge living room – which, kind of depressingly, was much bigger than our living room at home! Double doors led on to the master bedroom where the boys instantly scrambled onto the enormous bed while I checked out the massive bathroom and dressing room. In the opposite direction was George’s bedroom with a huge bathroom with shutters that opened up to the room. He had two double king sized beds and a lovely sunny balcony of his own.

One of the highlights of our room was the view from the terrace. We looked out to the sea and could see the famous Burj Al Arab in the distance. But when you looked down we could see the top of the huge fish tank and see sharks and sting rays on the surface. It was incredible!

Day 5 – The Lost Chambers Aquarium

Once we’d got over how incredible the Atlantis is, we explored the grounds of the hotel and the lovely pools, beaches and gardens before heading to the Lost Chambers Aquarium.

Whilst in Dubai we were doing some filming with a film crew to make a video for Emirates Ice Channel, which is their own channel available on the plane, so we were really lucky and were allowed to go into The Lost Chambers before it opened so we could film without people in the background. Yes, we had The Lost Chambers to ourselves!

It’s an Atlantis-themed aquarium and you walk through 10 huge chambers to explore the underwater world and see creatures you’d never imagine you’d see in real life. It was so beautiful, tranquil and serene and the most incredible aquarium you could imagine. Cushions are scattered in front of many of the enormous glass windows so you can sit down and watch over 65,000 marine animals within this magical setting.

This was such an amazing experience because Sam and I were just as entranced as George and Joseph were and we could have stayed here all day.

Side note: They also do morning yoga in the Lost Chambers for any of my fellow yogis! I hadn’t realised until it was too late but I really wish I’d done this!

We checked out the amazing kid’s club and then had lunch at The Shore , a luxurious beach bar serving Mexican food.

We took the kids back to our room for an afternoon nap and then spent the rest of the day splashing around the pool and beach.

Day 6 – Aquaventure

No Dubai itinerary would be complete without a trip to Aquaventure.

Aquaventure is the Middle East and Europe’s number 1 waterpark and it’s HUGE! It’s part of Atlantis the Palm and, once again, we had the amazing opportunity to go in before it opened with the film crew.

Sam made the most of it by trying out some of the bigger rides before there were any queues while I splashed around the kid’s pool with the boys.

There’s Splashers Children’s Area which is great for brave little ones or those over 3 but there’s also a brand new kids area for babies and younger ones. This was great for us because George and Joseph were a bit scared by Splashers but the tiny slides and shallow water in the new bit was amazing. I spent the next three hours stood at the bottom of slides applauding the boys as they came down again and again and again! That’s mum life! If you’re planning a family holiday to Dubai then I 100% recommend Aquaventure. If you don’t do anything else on this itinerary, go here!

Once again, we went back to our room for an afternoon nap before heading back out to the pool, beach and pirate ship play area.

Now it’s time for the adult’s treat in this Dubai itinerary…

That evening we had babysitters from the hotel come into our room to watch the kids while Sam and I went out for dinner at YUAN, Dubai’s best Chinese restaurant within the hotel resort.

I was a bit nervous about leaving the kids with a stranger but my mind was at rest as soon as two lovely ladies arrived. They came in with arms full of toys and the boys barely even noticed us after that! The babysitters gave the boys their dinner which arrived via room service, played with them for an hour and put them to bed.

The food at YUAN was delicious and definitely not like the Chinese takeaways I’m used to. We started off with cocktails and then had fried and steamed dumplings. We shared our main courses because we couldn’t decide between the Waygu beef and the duck. We followed up with decadent deserts before taking a much needed walk around the hotel which looks so pretty at night.

Day 7 – Burj Khalifa, Kidzania, Open top bus and Dubai Miracle Garden

The 7th day of our Dubai itinerary was a busy one with lots of family-friendly activities.

We were spoiled rotten when we went up the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, because we were invited to the 148 th floor where we were the only people in the lounge. It was such a magical experience to see Dubai from an incredible vantage point and it was another experience where the boys were just as excited as Sam and I.

After visiting the Burj Khalifa we walked to Kidzania which is nearby.

Kidzania is an ‘enteractional’ interactive city run by kids and is a must-visit during a family holiday to Dubai. It’s basically a mini indoor city with shops and hospitals and a fire department and dentists etc and kids run it all. You have special Kidzania money that they earn through working jobs and then use it to drive cars and other fun things. It’s a really fun place but George was a bit young for it and just got frustrated people kept telling him what to do. I can imagine they’d both love it in a few years though!

If you want to do some shopping then this is the section of the Dubai itinerary for you!

We had lunch in Dubai Mall, the biggest mall in the world. Dubai Mall is absolutely incredible and I can highly recommend a walk around the mall, even if you aren’t here for the shopping! 

After a stroll around Dubai Mall, we jumped on the City Sightseeing Tour bus. This was OK but I’d recommend doing it at around 5pm when it’s cooler. We could only get seats in the sun and were melting at the top of the bus! It was too hot to really enjoy the sights. 

Our final stop was Dubai Miracle Garden which was a bit of a drive but it is the most extravagant and incredible flower garden I’ve ever seen (of course, we were in Dubai!) Unfortunately, we didn’t see much of the gardens and flowers because by this point the boys were hot and tired so we didn’t stay long.

We made our way back to Atlantis the Palm in time for a long nap.

That evening we were taking a walk around the hotel grounds and we saw they were setting up a big cinema screen on the beach with huge beach bean bags. We hung around and realised it was a family film so we dived onto a bean bag, ordered some popcorn and snuggled up under some warm towels to watch Moana.

It was absolutely magical to be snuggled together under a palm tree, hearing the waves in the distance with the iconic hotel behind us and twinkling lights all around. It was the first time we’ve sat and watched a film all together so it was lovely. Joseph jumped up from our beanbag from time to time to have a little dance (that film has catchy songs!) and then crawled back under a towel to enjoy the film.

It was another reason why family holidays to Dubai are so great, they seem to think of everything and cater to every member of the family. Kids aren’t an afterthought here, kids are the reason people come!

Day 8 – Leaving day

It was with heavy hearts we packed our bags to leave Dubai .

On family holidays like this I’m usually ready to go home after a week away. I love travelling but I also love being at home and I feel ready to leave. But oh no, not this time. I could have happily stayed for another week in Dubai and we were all genuinely gutted to be going home.

Our flight home was as easy as the one out but it wasn’t nearly as exciting.

Overall thoughts about family holidays to Dubai

I can’t recommend Dubai enough for families. The activities and resorts were brilliant and there was so much to do for everyone. I think Dubai is best for families in the UK looking for winter sun because you’re almost guaranteed gorgeous weather and it isn’t too far to travel.

The Canary Islands are usually a firm favourite for family winter sun holidays but they aren’t nearly as glam as Dubai!

I really enjoyed staying at two different resorts. It made the holiday feel much longer and was exciting to explore somewhere new half way through the trip. I know it seems like an effort but it’s definitely something we’ll be doing again.

Pin this for later ->

Emirates Holidays

This holiday was in partnership with Emirates Holidays who, as you can probably tell from this post, were incredible. I had a few ideas about what I wanted to do but they had so many family friendly suggestions. Emirates Holidays are the specialists so they’re great at creating personalised itineraries to meet your individual needs – whether that’s a family trip, a romantic escape, an adventurous, privately guided holiday (dreams!) then they’re fabulously for helping you plan your trip. They’re experts in Dubai, Indian Ocean and South East Asia and South Africa – basically, all the places I want to go!

If you’re wondering what to pack for Dubai then I’ve got a Dubai packing guide here!

Thursday 2nd of May 2024

Absolutely agree, Monica! 

What an amazing guide for family holidays in Dubai! My family and I can't wait for our 2-day stay in Dubai this summer. Can't wait to slouch over cushions and watch the sealife—it's going to be so much fun!

Wednesday 22nd of May 2019

Sounds like a perfect trip. Which month did you go? We are planning to go in Oct and not sure whether weather will be too hot to do some of the outdoors activities in your blog.

TheTravelHack

We went in March so I think October will be similar or just slightly hotter. To be honest, the only thing that was too hot was an open top bus tour! We already knew it was a bad idea but we were with a film crew who wanted to get some shots on the bus so went 2-3 stops and got off again! I think October would be a really nice time to go.

Hanif shaikh

Monday 25th of March 2019

Thanks monica. really awesome guide for family Holiday plan in dubai. Some other place is also option. But this one is best for family tour enjoy.

Thursday 7th of March 2019

This is amazing! the Atlantis Palm Jumeirah is the best option. there are no other places to enjoy the family vacation than in Dubai.

Angharad Paull

Monday 20th of August 2018

Currently stuck on ideas for where to spend October half term (it's our first holiday restricted to term times), but then I remembered your Dubai post! I've just been reading through, transfixed - this is EXACTLY what I want and where I want to go! Off to do some flight research now!

Ameera Bousaid

Wednesday 27th of February 2019

Hi Paull! If you are looking for a great place to stay in UAE with beautiful views, relaxing private pools and huge villas, it's definitely Al Habtoor Polo Resort. My stay in there is really unforgettable. I was lucky enough to booked me and my whole family a 4 bedroom villas just for AED 2500 on weekdays.

Ultimate Dubai Travel Blog – Everything you need to plan a trip to Dubai

Hello and welcome to our Dubai Travel Blog!

Dubai Travel Planner aims to help first-time visitors through to repeat Dubai travel lovers who want to make the most out of their time in Dubai.

We take you through all the practicalities you need to know for planning a visit to Dubai, from UAE Visa requirements through to Dubai dress code and share with you all our insider tips for visiting Dubai’s top attractions , where to eat in Dubai and the best areas in Dubai for tourists to stay .

We also look beyond just the city of Dubai to fabulous day trips you can take within the 7 Emirates of the UAE , and further onto neighbouring Oman.  There are so many fascinating experiences you can have basing yourself in Dubai for your Arabian Adventure.

Our Dubai Travel Blog is broken down into some easy-to-use sections so you can find the information you are looking for:

• When to Visit Dubai
• What to Pack for Dubai
• Dubai Transport
• Dubai Laws, Visas and Customs
• Where to Stay in Dubai
• Where To Eat in Dubai
• Attraction Reviews
• Suggested Itineraries
• Around the Emirates
• Travel Blog

We also have month-by-month guides that take you through what weather you should expect, what to pack and what are the best things to see and do in Dubai at that time of year.

Our Dubai Blog will keep you up to date with the latest news and happenings in Dubai, seasonal events and how to get the most out our your Dubai experience. You might like to start with

• How to save money on attractions using the Dubai Pass
• Or how about our detailed guide on how you can day trip to Abu Dhabi to see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque ?

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Dubai Travel Blog

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It was love at first sight for us in Dubai. From the moment we left the airport, Dubai was one big wow. We posted about our fantastically fun camel-riding, belly-dancing, dune-jumping adventure in the desert.  We’ve told you about the cultural heritage tour that took us beyond the glitz into the living heart of Old Dubai.  I may have mentioned, more than once, what an incredible experience seeing the dancing fountains at the Burj Kalifa was . Now some tips, a Dubai travel guide, things to do, places to stay and more on our Dubai travel blog round-up page.

The problem with Dubai is, you need a month to see and do it all. We can’t say we’ve been there that long, but we’ve been there multiple times, each time as layovers en-route to Bangkok, Singapore, Mumbai, Kathmandu and beyond. Each time we’ve had a blast.

Bookmark this very long guide to Pinterest to use when you plan your Dubai itinerary.

Each time we’ve done the same favourite things as well as added some experiences and tours. Here’s our round-up on things to do in Dubai to help you plan your Dubai trip.

We will most certainly be back to sample more, including the beaches and water parks and to experience more of the great quality Middle-Eastern accommodation, food and service that make Dubai such a stand-out destination.

We’ll also take more tours, (the company we normally use is GetYorGuide, our review is here) there are loads to take out of Dubai into surrounding areas.

If you’d like an overview of the tours, activities, transfers, boat trips, tickets, just everything awesome available from Dubai , then we can give you that. Looking at what’s available will really help you plan your Dubai itinerary.

Dubai is not, at all, our usual sort of destination, a lot of people stick their noses in the air and won’t even consider visiting Dubai. We were surprised how much we loved visiting, every time.

Yes, I found the excess hard to take after leaving the tent villages of the earthquake victims in Kathmandu. It upset me. However, Dubai is what it is and everywhere in the world has something unique and fascinating to offer.

This post relates to personal experience and opinion only, please double check facts for yourself as things change fast in Dubai.

Dubai Quick Guide to Activities and Tours

This is our pick of the best tours, experiences, and activities in Dubai!

• Book a private boat or yacht, for fishing or pleasure.
• Book a desert safari with 4×4 dune bashing, camels, dancing, dinner and dune surfing, there is a wide choice of excellent activities at Dubai’s desert camps.
• Reserve your chance to visit the Burj Khalifa Observation Deck , incredible views from the world’s tallest building.
• See Dubai, ancient and modern, a city tour to take in all of the main highlights , particularly good if you’re short of time
• Take in the exclusive, View From The Palm Jumeira.
• Enjoy the sparkling Dubai Marina on a yacht cruise with breakfast or BBQ onboard.
• Spend a day at the Atlantis (The Palm) Aquaventure water park and Lost Chambers Aquarium . This is a must-do in Dubai!

Where to Stay in Dubai

This is a little tricky because much of it is personal taste. There are some hugely luxurious coastal resort hotels for holidaymakers but there are also thousands of options within the different areas of the city and on The Creek.

It really depends on what you want to get out of your trip. Dubai hotels certainly come in the luxury category and budget hotels in Dubai are, not so budget as elsewhere.

For the ultimate Dubai experience, try looking at Atlantis the Palm or Burj al Arab on Jumeira Beach , you’ll need a fat wallet but it would be an experience never to forget.

Did you know The Atlantis has water rides, shark encounters, a teen and kids club and more? This is a bucket list item to tick off, check it out at our link above.

We tend to go for apartment-style hotels for stopovers of a few days. They include kitchens and washing machines, which makes life easier. They are towards the more budget-friendly end.

The Golden Sands series of apartment hotels  in Bur Dubai are popular and usually have swimming pools.  They are away from the coast but in a central area. We’ve stayed at a couple of their apartment hotels and they’ve been pretty good value.

Consider transport options. As a family of four, we generally find taxis are easier and cheaper than the Dubai metro. If you’re not sticking to a tight budget, luxury cars and transfers are easy to arrange.

Getting Around Dubai

When we visited, Dubai had two metro lines, red and green, which covered most of the tourist areas in and around the city.

The red line heads south as far as Jebel Ali. Tickets are per zone.

For tourists you can buy a red NOL card which allows travel on all metro, bus and tram networks.

You can preload your card with the amount of money and zones you wish to use.

I don’t really recommend catching the metro as for us it has always been overcrowded. On each occasion we’ve used it we’ve had to wait for several full trains to pass before we could force our way on. The ladies-only carriages didn’t offer any advantage when travelling as a family.

Taxis are a convenient way of getting around the city if you’re only going to a few places. For a family of 4, the cost isn’t much more than the metro. They are all metered and you won’t need to haggle. Just be cautious during peak hours when you could be stuck on one of the many large roads in gridlock traffic.

Buses are common across Dubai but unless you really know where you are going then I wouldn’t worry.  The NOL card will include travel on buses if you want to have a go. We have seen horrendous queues at the public bus station in Dubai, they were so bad we gave up on catching one.

A train line connecting the Emirates is currently under construction.

Flights to Dubai

We were victims of a scam when we flew to Dubai. Maybe read this post on 3rd party bookings  (it opens in a new tab so you don’t lose this page)  before you pay for your flight. Most of the local airlines are very good indeed and are some of our favourite carriers in the world.

Both Etihad and Emirates are sometimes able to offer free layover accommodation if you have a long lay over in Dubai.

Arriving at Dubai’s Airports

Dubai has two airports located at opposite ends of the city. The Dubai International Airport with code DXB and the newer Al Maktoum International Airport with code DWC.

Dubai International (DXB) is the main airport and is one of the world’s busiest in terms of international travellers. The information below was correct last time we visited.

It has 3 terminals in total and terminals 1 and 3 (exclusively Emirates and Qantas) are connected via a walkway but terminal 2 is on the other side of the airport.

Getting into Dubai from DXB is easy with multiple options from taxis, private hire transfers, buses and even the metro trains which stop at both terminal 1 and 3 or terminal 2 on a separate line.

Transfers between terminals 1 & 3 and terminal 2 require a shuttle bus so allow plenty of time.

DWC is located some 50 km south of the old town and isn’t as well connected to transport links. Probably the easiest option when arriving is to catch a taxi directly to your hotel. This is more expensive than taxis from DXB. Not many airlines use the new airport and the chances of flying in here aren’t high.

If you need to connect between DWC and DXB then you can catch the metro line as far south as Ibn Battuta and then the dedicated bus directly to the airport. Obviously, it is the same in reverse.

Please double check all of this information for yourself, we do our best to stay current, but can’t guarantee this. I wouldn’t recommend this if you have large amounts of luggage.

The other option is taxi which will be expensive and take a long time. Allow plenty of time as traffic in Dubai can often be at a stand-still depending on the time of day.

Abu Dhabi airport is another option, Emirates / Etihad gave us a free transfer from Dubai to Abu Dhabi airport.

Dubai With Kids

Dubai is absolutely, without doubt, one of the best and easiest places in the world to take kids. It’s just not a cheap family destination!

There are hundreds of ultra-fun, family, and kid-friendly things to do in Dubai. My children love the camel safari we mentioned above, but there’s also the mall, beaches, pools, and theme parks.

Dubai is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the world, if you don’t mind the cost. Dubai is, of course, considered very safe.

For more cultural travel there is old Dubai and Arabic culture to discover. Maybe visit mosques such as Jumeirah Mosque.

Just some of the attractions for kids in Dubai are below. Things to do in Dubai with kids, that are child-friendly, include:

• Kidzania Dubai Mall
• Sega World Dubai Mall
• The Ice Rink at Dubai Mall
• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Dubai Mall
• Desert Safaris as mentioned here
• Legoland Dubai
• IMG World of Adventure Theme Park
• Bounce Dubai
• Wild Wadi Water Park near Jumeira Beach
• VR World Dubai Mall
• Dubai City Walk
• Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis the Palm
• Dancing Fountains at the Burj Khalifa
• Dolphin Bay at Atlantis the Palm

Our full post on Dubai with kids is coming soon.

Dubai Beaches

The beaches were very clean and the water calm when we were last in Dubai. Water temperature wasn’t as warm as you’d think but not as cold as the Mediterranean.

The beaches have shops and restaurants backing them but there is little shade making it very hot and exposed in the middle of the day.

If you’re not staying on the beach, getting there will probably require a taxi or shuttle bus as the metro stopped a few blocks back. Our hotel provided a shuttle bus to the beach.

Swimwear is fine at the beach, but cover up elsewhere.

Finding Culture and History in Dubai- Old Dubai

It’s not just about gleaming skyscrapers. Down by The Creek, you can find the Al Fahidi Historical District where wind towers (see them above) coral block houses, and well-restored traditional Arabian doorways give you a glimpse into yesterday.

The historic area is relatively small but is nonetheless fascinating.

Take a tour as we did , before wandering down to The Creek, visiting the souks and Dubai Fort.

Dubai’s Gold and Spice Souks

Again these Dubai Souks are small compared to those you see in Istanbul or Egypt , but nonetheless, you should go.

Identify spices as you stroll the alleyways and be stunned by just how much gold it’s possible to wear.

Just be very, very wary of buying. Some of the biggest rip-offs we’ve ever seen are here. ALWAYS ask the price first, even for camel milk ice cream.

Cross The Creek by boat from Old Dubai to get here.

Dubai Museum of The Future

Dubai’s new Museum of the Future is due to open on February 22nd 2022. Obviously, we haven’t been, but if it opened on time we’ll be there soon. It looks incredible.

Visitors journey into a future over multiple floors of a stunningly beautiful construction.

Visit the website here to learn more. It’s on Sheikh Zayed Road and tickets should be available soon.

Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek divides Dubai into two areas, Deira and Bur Dubai.

It was the main port and entry to Dubai for many years and it wasn’t until 1963 that the first bridge was built over it.

You can still take boats across the creek but they are mainly for tourists and a few people commuting between the two areas.

A boat ride costs very little and is a nice thing to do when visiting the souks and Old Dubai. These attractions are on either side of The Creek.

The Fish Market

The old Deira Dubai fish market which had been around for decades finally shut its doors as the new Waterfront market opened.

The old market was a great place to visit but it was tired and was long overdue for an upgrade.

Being so busy the vendors had taken to selling their wares in the parking lot out the front.

Like most things in Dubai, it wasn’t updated but replaced with a brand new purpose-built market.

Located near Hamriya Port, the Waterfront Market offers fresh fish, meat, fruits, and vegetables. It has everything any modern market would have with coffee shops and restaurants opening as development progresses.

It isn’t on the metro line so I’d suggest a taxi and get there early to see the day’s catch.

The Date Market

Part of the old Deira Market, the fruit and vegetable market will also be moving to the new Waterfront Market further north.

It will take a while to get it up and running properly and make sure that all the shops have tenants but when it is finished it will be great to see.

The largest mall in the world by area is how this mall is often described and you could easily lose days here.

We loved Dubai aquarium on the ground floor of The Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa outside where you’ll be able to see the water fountain display every evening.

Please check times and dates for variations.

Getting to and from the mall was easy with either the crowded metro (don’t try and catch it during peak hour) or the taxi ranks located at designated areas on the lower ground floor.

During peak hour we had an hour wait to catch a taxi but the designated waiting areas are well manned and all taxis were official and on meters.

You’ll notice that many of the attractions listed above under Dubai with Kids are in the mall. Add to these, one of the biggest candy stores we’ve ever seen (it was opposite the huge viewing tank of the aquarium) and you have kid paradise.

Where is the Dubai Mall?

The Dubai Mall is in the city of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, a country in the continent of Asia, and the Middle East. It is located on Financial Center Street, Along Sheikh Zayed Road, Next to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai fountains.It is part of the Downtown centre, known as Downtown Dubai, a building project which took over 20 million dollars to create. It has it’s own Metro stop and parking for cars. The nearest Metro Stop is the the Burj Khalifa/The Dubai Mall station but the walk to the Dubai Mall itself, from the station, is around 15 minutes through air-conditioned walkways and shops.

The Dubai Mall and Mall of The Emirates are two different places.

Tours of Dubai

We’ve always found it hard to book tours in Dubai, the only local option seems to be to book via your hotel.

Of course, they have an agenda and will point you towards the tours that pay them best.

We first discovered GetYourGuide in Dubai when we booked our Desert Safari (book using this link) and have been using them ever since. They have a lowest price guarantee and come with the peace of mind that a big company gives you.

We use them, we trust them. There are dozens of tours, from sightseeing to dinners to major adventures and thrills that only Dubai can provide. Check out the top Dubai tours and attractions here.

Tours From Dubai

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and multiple tours are available from Dubai.

These are very popular and well worth doing. We tried and failed to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by bus. In the end we took a free shuttle.

Read about getting f rom Dubai to Abu Dhabi here .

Dubai Currency and Cash

The currency of Dubai is the UAE Dirham and most transactions in Dubai will be via Apple Pay, Google Pay or any major credit card.

Read our full post on handling money and currency exchange in Dubai.

Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world (it may not be now) it stands at 829.8 m in downtown Dubai.

It is so high that we heard people living above the 80th floor should wait 2 minutes and people above 150 should wait 3 minutes before eating during Ramadan as the setting sun can still be seen from these floors.

The building is mixed usage, with apartments, restaurants, offices and viewing areas. It has won many awards for its architecture.

The Burk Khalifa also holds numerous records for base jumping, both official and unofficial.

Each night it hosts a water fountain display which is located just outside of the Dubai Mall at the base of the Burj.

We’ve enjoyed this Dubai fountain show several times now, it’s quite special. Expect crowds.

At the end of the display is when taxi ranks at the mall will be very full. It can easily take an hour to get into a taxi.

Burj Al Arab

The beautiful Burj Al Arab on Jumeirah Beach is said to be the most luxurious hotel in the world. It’s 6 star status actually came about because of a misunderstanding.

It’s certainly a stunning building and a trip to the beach will give you great views. If you’d like to stay, check it out . I know I would.

Food in Dubai

Obviously, you can get anything you’d like in Dubai, it’s a big modern city. The most authentic local food we found was probably on our cultural tour and Emirati lunch and the street snacks we bought in the souk near Old Dubai (pictured above).

We tend to self-cater a lot in Dubai, not my favourite thing, but good cheap eats are thin on the ground.

Look out for the supermarket chain, Spinneys, there seems to be one every few paces.

What to Wear in Dubai

Surprisingly, there are no hard and fast restrictive dress rules around Dubai.

You’ll see women fully covered through personal choice while others wear swimsuits or bikinis at the beach and around pools.

However, if you’re heading to the mall, a restaurant, market, or really, any public place. Show some respect in terms of dress.

Certain items are not allowed, very short shorts and skirts, crop tops, strappy tops and so on.

Cover up from shoulders to knees and all should be well.

Men should also show similar respect.

Please check current requirements and dress regulations for anywhere you’re planning to visit in Dubai.

The locals always seemed dressed to the nines and you’ll be amazed by the well-groomed, fragrant, dazzlingly white-robed men and their immaculately made up partners.

Even if you can only see eyes, those eyes will be faultless and captivating.

Dubai-Best Times to Visit

December is a popular time to visit Dubai, with school holidays, Christmas, and cooler temperatures making Dubai a great winter sun destination.

Probably the worst time to visit Dubai would be July and August, when you could see temperatures up to 50C.

The best time to visit Dubai is generally the cooler months, November through to February. But Easter can be OK too.

Generally, Dubai is a winter destination for most northern hemisphere tourists (UK, Europe, USA), a summer destination for Australians escaping the Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney or Adelaide cold!

Can You Drink the Tap Water in Dubai?

Nearly all the drinking water in Dubai comes from desalination. The government has stated that it is safe to drink when it leaves the processing plants.

A lot of locals don’t drink the water blaming bad taste and the pipes that carry it.

We’re happy brushing our teeth with tap water but wouldn’t be drinking glasses of it.

Can You See Shows in Dubai?

Yes, Dubai has numerous shows, the biggest and best is probably La Perle by Dragone .

You can also see a belly dancing and tanoura dance show on most desert safaris in Dubai.

What to Take With You to Dubai

There’s very little that you’d need to pack for Dubai that you can’t buy there. Dubai culture revolves around shopping, they’ll have what you need. 

You’ll be in a city, so the sort of travel gadgets we normally recommend are redundant.

Theft isn’t a big worry but think about anti theft bags and devices particularly for the souks.  

Dubai is one of the places that we visit to stock up on things like good quality jeans and underwear, so don’t over-pack.

That’s it for now. We’re heading to Dubai again this autumn so this post will be updated yet again and more content added. It was a pleasure creating this Dubai travel blog and guide to help you plan your trip to Dubai and UAE. Can you use the red Pinterest button below to save this post to Pinterest? Or hover over the centre of one of the long images and a button will appear by magic. You can then choose which Pinterest image you like best. Thanks!

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If you'd like to hire a car during your stay, use this car rental comparison tool to find the best deal! We also suggest you take a look at this company to get a quote for all kinds of the more tricky adventure or extended travel insurance. Try Stayz / VRBO for an alternative way to find rentals on homes/apartments/condos in any country!

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Alyson Long

Everest base camp trek itinerary, ​best gyms in dubai, 84 thoughts on “dubai travel blog”.

What a great article! We’re lucky enough to be a photography company based in Dubai. You’re quite right about the best view of the Burj Al Arab being from Jumeirah beach. We’ve shot headshots there a few times.

Nice Blog, Can you next write a text about yacht in Dubai and the market development?

No, I can’t. I write about travel Tim. And we don’t take spammy guest posts.

It is interesting to read how you enjoyed many diverse experiences during your Dubai travel. I have always been eager to visit Dubai.

I love how you have gone from making modest amounts through your blogs to now making enough to fund your families lifestyle. It is truly inspiring. Keep doing what you do, so that we can continue to follow and learn from you, as we muddle our way through a journey of our own!

Your blog is a captivating read, beautifully showcasing the wonders of Dubai’s tourism and travel scene. It serves as an excellent guide for people seeking to discover the vibrant attractions and unique experiences Dubai has to offer. From stunning landmarks to fascinating cultural insights, Dubai is undeniably a delightful destination to explore.

Additionally, Dubai provides exceptional transportation options, including the renowned Dubai metro. With its extensive network and state-of-the-art facilities, the Dubai Metro offers a convenient and efficient way to navigate the city. Travelers can enjoy a comfortable and seamless journey while admiring the modern architecture and stunning cityscape from the metro’s panoramic windows.

To elevate your travel experience further, consider complementing your adventures with the luxury of a chauffeur-driven car. Indulge in the convenience and opulence of a luxury vehicle, ensuring a truly memorable and effortless trip throughout Dubai.

The Dubai metro can be very crowded. As a family we normally just take a taxi.

Very insightful blog! Thanks for sharing helpful information.

See why so many travelers make La Quinta Jumeriah by Wyndham their hotel of choice when visiting Dubai. Providing an ideal mix of value, comfort and convenience, it offers an array of amenities designed for travelers like you.

La Quinta Dubai is the perfect choice for a luxurious and comfortable stay in Dubai. Ranked as the top hotel on Tripadvisor, our hotel apartments in Dubai offer exceptional hospitality and customer satisfaction. Book your stay at Dubai’s best hotel now!

Nice Blog, Thank you for sharing this information with us. We also provide family taxis with baby car seats. You can also visit our website.

Your description of Dubai travel really seems tempting. I am actually looking for cleartrip flights that will help me get the same experience in Dubai. I have always dreamt of witnessing the true beauty of the deserts. I wished to witness the belly dance myself and now you have mentioned it in this post and tempted me further. Nice post!

What a sensational guide here. Dubai has long been on our list. The closest we’ve been was Oman, when visiting Nizwa. I just love the feel in that part of the world. Middle Eastern hospitality is epic.

Hi Ryan good to hear from you again, we’re actually off to Jordan tomorrow, another Middle Eastern country checked off.

All place is nice but Dubai Love Lake is most top place according to me.

Thanks, we’ll add that soon.

You write such beautiful blog, and its help to introduce people with dubai tourism and travel, peoples make there holidays to know about that places and ideas, dubai is a such a lovely place. Enjoy your trip with luxury car with chauffeur service.

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Dubai again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

We offer Dubai Tour Packages From India at an affordable price. Dubai is one of the most visited travel destinations across the globe and this destination is not only for honeymooners but also for the solo travelers and for family vacationers.

Looking forward to try out some of these places! We’ll be in Dubai next Fall… can’t wait to get there. Talitha

Hi Talitha! Good to see you here again. Hopefully, we’ll be out of here about June, still don’t have passports, and D just bought himself a new kitten, so I don’t think he’ll want to leave here. She’s on the Tropical Food Garden Instagram, super cute. Have a great trip!

I really like this article you have written. Most of the things you mention here are very accurate. We also have Luxury Holiday Homes in Dubai.

Wonderful post! I recently filled out the Dubai Visa Application Form with the help of a reputable visa consultancy. Since then, I have been looking for some interesting places to visit in Dubai. That is when I stumbled upon your post. Your interesting Dubai travel guide coupled with beautiful pictures has piqued my interest. I am pretty excited to visit Dubai with my husband next month.

Strange. We’ve never needed a visa for Dubai.

What a great article! We’re lucky enough to be a photography company based in Dubai. You’re quite right about the best view of the Burj Al Arab being from Jumeirah beach. We’ve shot headshots there a few times.

Hi, It’s great content. This is the ultimate guide for first-time Dubai travelers. Really informative and fun to read, I am planning to visit Dubai, I have book also H Hotel Dubai, as per my google search The H Dubai Hotel is located right in the heart of the Middle East’s most dynamic city. The city’s main attractions including Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, Dubai Mall, Dubai Garden Glow, La Mer Beach, and Dubai World Trade Center are a short distance from the hotel.

You have a comprehensive Dubai travel guide here. This will help travellers interested in doing self-packaging, find their way around Dubai. I’ve commented with love from Dubai tour pro.

Arabian Desert Safari

Dubai Desert Safari tour is among the very popular activities. The combination of various activities is the reason behind it,s popularity. Dubai desert safari deals include dinner, tours & shows.

Desert Safari Dubai Desert Safari Toura

Your content is amazing, I appreciate it. But if you want to off-roading in the desert of Dubai, You can contact us, we care about your experiences.

Greetings, Awesome blog. Burz Khalifa is my favorite place over there.

Beyond Dubai

Excellent post! Your Dubai travel experiences have nudged me to get a Dubai visa. Some of the adventure activities like camel riding, dune jumping, belly dancing and desert safaris look really enjoyable. I would love to experience all these amazing attractions and more in Dubai with my lovely wife. Hope she likes the short Dubai getaway.

Excellent Article Loved it, thanks for sharing

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WOW Amazing I absolutely enjoyed every part of your website and i also have you bookmarked to see new stuff in your site.

Etihad Airline flight, Just amazing — they’ve never been late for me, but Etihad booking cancellation policy is easy to understand. After searching so much about the modification policy, finally, I got a solution. They have crisp, short, and relevant information about modification, cancellation, check-in, Baggage, and Pet policy. They helped me a lot during the harsh Covid-19 time. I am very thankful to the team of airlinespolicy.

The Golden Sands series of apartment hotels is good.

explanation of Dubai Tourism by your blog is a very good manner

Don’t miss Emirati food. Bin Eid Restaurant is the Best and oldest Emirati restaurant in Dubai

this blog is really helpful for travelling to Dubai however, home to more than 200 nationalities; Dubai is very tolerant, cosmopolitan and multicultural. This rainbow of diversity brings an array of delectable global cuisines, fashion and delightful entertainment from around the world right to its shores, much to the delight of curious visitors. When in Dubai, just as in any other foreign destination, respect for local customs and culture is important and it’s recommended to dress modestly, particularly in public spaces like shopping malls and restaurants and when visiting the heritage areas just like Al Fahidi Dubai and the Dubai Creek. There are few things you should take care of while visiting to Dubai.

This guide is very interesting and I came to know many things about Dubai through this blog. However there is one thing very less people are aware about. Bird-watchers will be thrilled to hear that there are over 320 bird species that migrate between Europe, Asia and Africa via Dubai. During the spring and fall, birds such as spotted eagles, broad-billed sandpipers, and greater herons pass through the city. They can be seen on a visit to Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary and a falconry safari is a must for bird-lovers young and old. Experience the traditional sport of falconry first-hand with a greater spotted eagle, Harris’ hawk, and desert eagle owl.

The answer is that the flight tickets, hotel fares, and hence the overall package cost would be high as the lock-down lifts.

Your blog has literally provided all the impetus to visit Dubai with my kids. I can imagine myself enjoying in this city with my family as I was going through it. I have already been to this city twice on an official tour. That’s why I couldn’t explore it to the fullest owing to the lack of time. But I will see to it that I spend a full fledged vacation here very soon with my family.

Good to hear!

Dubai is indeed a must-go travel destination in the Middle East, especially during this winter season. You will enjoy every amenities and events in every nook and corner of the city. The way you have described Dubai in your blog makes it more exciting for travelers from all over the world to be here soon.

Hi! Great content. This is the ultimate guide for first time Dubai travelers. Really informative and fun to read! 🙂 I think your readers would find this little info on Car rental services in Dubai to be useful!

Very interesting and informative blogs. Must read

This is excellent Travel guide thanks for sharing;

wow….so nice…. Dubai mall is so amazing…….

well written,… congrats,,,,,,,,,

Very informative blog.

Even Dubai natives may not know this much about Dubai.

A definitive Dubai Travel Blog anyone ever needs in my opinion.

Keep up the good work.

All the best,

Exellent info about Dubai

Thanks for sharing such an important information with us but i also want to add one point that you don’t mention, Dubai’s safe and secure taxi service…i experienced taxi service last month for the first time really it was fabulous.

Hi, I am planning to visit Dubai. I have a craze to go on the safari desert, and I also have amazed to see water parks in Dubai. Can you please recommend a budget to enjoy 15 days in Dubai. Should I wait for the off-season to travel?

I can’t really advise on a budget because we all spend differently. Dubai is an expensive destination. You will be spending – probably a few hundred dollars a day depending on what you do and what you spend, up to thousands per day if you stay at the Burj. All these tours are pretty expensive too. You can self cater and eat at McDonalds or use nice restaurants. You can spend a fortune or you can keep it as budget as possible. I’m sorry I can’t really help much more.

Iam going to Dubai in Nov.19 as single passenger through a travel agency. Can I visit all places safely with the cab driver.Though the travels is watching me via WhatsApp, is this safe ? Iam 68 years old.can I go around all the places easily without any guide?.

In my opinion, yes, but you can find bad people anywhere, I’ve never felt unsafe in Dubai. The opposite infact, I feel highly safe there and have wandered around by myself, as a woman, often. They have tough laws. Just follow normal safety procedures.

Your blog is unbelievably fantastic. This is very nice and informative blog. National Day UAE 2019 .

Great post! Thanks for sharing. I think a lot of travellers are looking for more ops to make those cultural connections and see more.

EXCELLENT ARTICLE…

Thank you. Appreciated.

Thanks For deep knowledge about Dubai Foods and Clothes

Thanks for sharing the post. Dubai is the perfect place to enjoy the holiday with family.

Beautiful article, Really interesting to read. I have gone to Dubai one year later with the assistance of a tour operator . I got a wonderful experience. Thanks for sharing this article.

Very well explained all about dubai travel guide. Thanks for the great dubai travel ideas. Very informative post indeed.

This was a complete article on Dubai. Thanks for sharing this amazing knowledge. Keep up the good work, Cheers!!!

The best time to explore Dubai is in Winter time. Dubai is known for its luxury homes, this guide is more than that. thank you for sharing your experience.

Very comprehensive blog post on Dubai tour. It is beneficial for all the visitors who are going to Dubai. Thanks for sharing this with us!

Hi Alyson Long,

Thanks for sharing your knowledge about Dubai. It’s very helpful for me when I visit in Dubai as a traveler or I am also happy to read your travel blog because I also love traveling.

I simply say keep it up and don’t stop writing a blog for travels

Hi, can you suggest any site for tours and trips in emirates or dubai? Which one will be used there? I found getyouguide, tripadvisor and tripsemirates.com. Thanks, Tony

We provide links to GetYourGuide tours on this page. Scroll back up and have a look, we use them a lot and can certainly recommend the desert safaris we mention above, we also tried an speed boat tour recently. They are our preferred company.

Yes. We took the on off bus. It has three different guided tours, each a different color. We did all 3 in one day. Reasonably priced, Feel like we saw all highlights of Dubai.

Very easy to get a taxi or hop on the Metro also. But beware bad traffic and packed trains. It’s not a place you can walk much other than down around The Creek, Old Dubai and the Souks, with the little fery boats to cross.

Desert Safari Dubai is an amazing trip that will give you a unique experience. The undulating sands are not only an attraction, but they are an adventure that you should not miss. The sand will beckon you with the shine and mystery that is has hidden in it. The desert is one of natures amazing gifts to mankind that you should go on a Desert Safari to fall in love with the sand dunes.

I really like the blog you have written on Dubai very informative and in detail. I think you covered almost everything from hotels to popular places, activities, travelling, etc

Nice and simple guide for people planning to visit Dubai! I saw the city while watching live cricket match in Dubai. The city is very beautiful! I would love to go there!

Hi. I just came across your blog and wanted to know if there’s any place in Dubai where tourists can go horseriding?

I’m sure there are although I’ve never done it. Use the links above to the other tours and search through what’s listed there. Have fun !

Hi, We will be there in Dubai from 31/10/2018 to 14/11/2018. With my three kids,wife and mother.we are looking for deals at popular destinations.any suggestions?

Just spent 2 days in Dubai. The airport and process,of entering are seamlessly organized. Everyone very helpful, We chose,the Big Bus, on and off for tours of the city, marina and beach. Well worth the beautiful sites and stories of Dubai. We also visited Dubai Mall and saw the beautiful fountain light display.

We are planning a trip for Dubai in late December for roundabout 8-9 days We are a family of 4 including 2 children Can you help plan a tour? We are planning to save on the accommodation by buying some apartments but can’t find any reasonable options.

Hello! We will go to Dubai on Dec. 23 to 30, any suggestion for our itinerary? Any any suggested hotel which is cheap, comfy and near to mall and metro. Thanks in advance.

I’ll get back to you ASAP Loren. Been up Everest!

My husband and I are headed to Dubai in October as part of our round the world adventure. There seems to be conflicted information about brining in prescription medications, I am prescribed meds for anxiety and sleep. Have you heard problems arising at customs? We plan to have original bottles, prescriptions and letter from doctor. Any feedback would be helpful. Thank you.

Hi Jude. We don’t have prescription drugs so no first hand experience, but yes, it DOES happen. Keep all drugs in their original containers and have your doctor’s notification, but also check which drugs and medications are illegal or banned in Dubai. It’s not just Dubai, certain drugs, legal in your own country, can get you into deep trouble in others, even if prescribed. I’m sorry I can’t be much more help than that.

Thank you for the insights! I am heading to Dubai this autumn and look forward to exploring this amazing city.

Have a great time Claudette!

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Dubai Travel Blogs

These are all of my travel blogs about dubai. .

From exploring it’s otherworldly deserts on camelback to the peak of the astonishing Burj Khalifa, find out the best places to travel to in my Dubai travel blogs and travel guides.

Happy exploring!

9 Best Places For Winter Sun

Considering a break this winter? From the Caribbean to Dubai it’s time to reveal the best places for winter sun around the world.

A quick guide to the united arab emirates.

Planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates but haven’t figured out where to go yet? My quick UAE travel guide is the perfect place to start, with tips on what makes each emirate unique, top things to do and where to stay.

24 hours in dubai: these are the things you just can’t miss.

365 days of sunshine a year, beautiful beaches, pure luxury and an incredible, buzzing city, Dubai is the ultimate beach holiday meets city break.

Dubai Itinerary for up to 7 Days (+Map & Planning Tips)

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: June 3, 2024

Visiting Dubai in the United Arab Emirates for the first time and wondering how to plan your trip so that you can see most of the top sights in Dubai?

What are the ‘must-sees’? How many days do you need? And how to plan your time so that you can make the most out of your trip, no matter the duration…

In this guide, we share  a recommended Dubai itinerary for 7 days.  Why 7? Because this is about the minimum amount of time you need if you want to see most of the top places in Dubai, take a day trip to Abu Dhabi (must-do!), and keep your trip somewhat relaxed and enjoyable.

Our suggested one-week Dubai itinerary is described below in detail, including the map indicating all the top sights and attractions. We also included our experience-based tips to help you with the practical side of planning a trip (such as which tickets to pre-book in order to avoid disappointment).

If your trip is shorter and you have less than a week in Dubai, you can simply adjust our recommended Dubai itinerary based on your interests and the time that you have. To make it easier to decide what to see, we listed the very best places and top attractions first. So for example, with three days in Dubai, follow the itinerary described on days 1, 2, and 3. With 5 days in Dubai, follow the recommendations for the first 5 days, etc.

Of course, you can also ‘mix and match’, pick the activities that interest you the most, switch the days around, and plan your own perfect trip. Use this just as inspiration for the top places to see and what can actually be done in Dubai in a week. And if your trip is shorter, you can also find some suggestions for half a day, a day or two in our guide on planning a stopover in Dubai .

Dubai Itinerary Overview & Map

Here you can see our recommended Dubai itinerary in a nutshell as well as the map indicating all the top sights mentioned in our article.

Further below, you can find a detailed day-by-day itinerary with more info, tips, and photos. It will give you a better idea of what to expect and how to plan your time so that you can see the very best of Dubai in a week or less.

This is our recommended 7-day itinerary for your first trip to Dubai:

• DAY 1: Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa) + Museum of the Future
• DAY 2: Old Dubai + Desert Tour
• DAY 3: Burj Al Arab, The Palm, Marina
• DAY 4: Abu Dhabi Day Trip
• DAY 5: Dubai Miracle Garden + Global Village or IMG Worlds of Adventure
• DAY 6: Waterpark (or an alternative day trip)
• DAY 7: Dubai Frame + AYA Universe + iFly Dubai

Good to know: In this itinerary, we grouped the best places to see in Dubai and top activities based on their location and the time that you need in order to visit them and to travel in between. Traffic can be really busy, so it’s important to keep that in mind when planning your Dubai sightseeing itinerary! For more tips, be sure to also read our Dubai travel tips .

How to use this map:  Use your computer mouse (or fingers) to zoom in or out. Click on the icons to get more information about each place. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the index. Click the star next to the map’s title to add it to your Google Maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open Google Maps, click the menu and go to ‘Your Places’/’Maps’. If you want to print the map or see it in a bigger window, click on ‘View larger map’ in the top right corner.

Practical Info & Planning Tips

Here is some practical information to help to plan your trip to Dubai:

Getting around: The cheapest and fastest way to cover big distances in Dubai is the metro. However, depending on where you are staying/going, a taxi is a very good and affordable option as well. See our guide to Dubai public transport for more info.

Renting a car is quite affordable, but parking can be a real hassle in Dubai. Plus, most guided tours include pick-up and drop-off at your accommodation, so renting a car is not a must.

Where to stay: For a short trip to Dubai with sightseeing as the main focus, stay close to Dubai Mall (e.g. Sofitel Dubai Downtown ). If you are staying for a week or longer, consider the Dubai Marina area (e.g. JW Marriott Hotel Marina ) or Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) near the Marina (e.g. Sofitel Dubai Jumeirah Beach ).

Our experience: We tend to stay on the beach when visiting Dubai. Once we stayed at Doubletree by Hilton JBR Beach , and recently we stayed at Rove La Mer Beach Hotel which is at the beach, but also close to the Dubai Mall area. This area is still under development but has a very hip and relaxed feeling.

Tickets and tours: If you wonder whether you need to pre-book anything/everything, my advice is simple: if you don’t want to miss it, be sure to book it in advance. Tickets to the most popular attractions in Dubai often sell out, some even weeks upfront. And even if you can get them on the spot, they are usually (a lot) more expensive than online. For tours, it depends. Usually, you should be able to book last minute, but if you find a tour you like, just reserve it.

Good to know: Most of the attraction tickets and tours we recommend can be booked via the GetYourGuide website which offers very flexible cancelation so you have nothing to lose. This is the website we personally used for all our tickets and tours in Dubai. In our detailed day-to-day itinerary below, you can find more information about tickets and tours that we recommend.

Please note that all the hours in our itinerary are only indicated for your reference so that you have a better idea of how much time approximately you need everywhere. Don’t forget to foresee plenty of buffer time between the attractions that work with timed entry slots!

Museum of the Future – Sky Views Observatory – Dubai Mall – Burj Khalifa – Dubai Fountains.

Day 1 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Museum of the Future – timed entry tickets (book at least a few weeks in advance!).
• Sky Views – timed entry tickets or tickets + Edge Walk .
• Burj Khalifa – timed entry tickets (book well in advance!).
• Optional: Burj Lake boat ride , Dubai Aquarium .

Good to know: Some of these attractions can also be booked together, as a combo deal. For example, Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium ticket can save you about $20 per person. You can find more options and bundle deals here .

Here’s what your first day in Dubai could look like:

Museum of The Future

9.30 – 11.30 AM.

Start your day with one of the most popular attractions in Dubai – the Museum of the Future . The iconic building is one of the most remarkable landmarks of Dubai and the museum is the most sought-after ticket in the UAE.

A visit to this museum gives you a peek into the future of space travel and climate change, but also health, robotics, and AI. With lots of interactive displays, it’s an interesting place that the whole family will enjoy. But frankly, a lot depends on your expectations – some people love it, others say it’s over-hyped. Either way, it’s worth visiting even if just for the remarkable architecture.

PRO TIP: Book your tickets for this museum well in advance. They are usually sold out at least 2-3 weeks upfront. In addition, if you want to be able to pick a time slot as well, you really should book at least a month in advance.

Practical info: The museum is open from early morning and you will need a couple of hours for a visit. So ideally you start your day here and keep the afternoon for the Dubai Mall area. Booking the first time slot is also the best way to enjoy the exhibits without a big crowd!

12 – 1.30 PM

Next, take a metro to Dubai Mall. It’s just two metro stops from the Museum of the Future and as you exit the station, you’ll be right at the next place we recommend visiting – Sky Views. Alternatively, you can also take a taxi, just be sure to ask them to drop you off at the right place depending on what you decide to visit first (the Dubai Mall area is huge!).

Sky Views is an observatory at 720 ft (219.5 meters), offering some of the best 360° views of Downtown Dubai. From here, you have an unparalleled view of the iconic Burj Khalifa, which is located just nearby but also at a nice distance to admire it to the fullest.

In addition to the viewing platform, there is also a glass-bottom walkway , a bit like at Dubai Frame (more about it on day 7 of this itinerary).

Plus, all tickets include one go on the Sky Glass Slide , a short transparent tube that ‘floats’ at the side of the building. Don’t worry – it’s not nearly as exciting as it sounds, and frankly, I’m still not sure if I would queue for it for almost an hour again… But if it’s not too busy, be sure to give it a try. It’s fun!

Good to know: At an additional cost, you can get a ticket that includes the Sky Edge Walk . Attached with a harness, you walk on an open platform on the 52nd floor. This looks so cool and could easily become one of the best experiences you do in Dubai.

Since one of our kids has a serious fear of heights, I couldn’t try the Sky Edge yet (on the most recent trip, I was in Dubai alone with the children, so hanging on the side of a building while the kids waited inside wasn’t really an option ;)). But if you are up for it, give it a try – it looks amazing and everyone we talked to who did it was very enthusiastic.

Talking about heights, the same kid was totally ok with the glass slide, but he wouldn’t step on a glass-bottom walkway… Go figure…

Practical information: Book timed-entry tickets (with or without the Sky Edge Walk option) in advance. To be on the safe side, give yourself at least half an hour to get to Sky Views Observatory from the Museum of the Future. The metro ride is just 3 minutes, but you also need to walk to the metro and find your way around the Dubai Mall station, etc.

AFTERNOON + EVENING.

Next, time to visit the famous Dubai Mall . Inside, you will find plenty of places for lunch . From fine dining options and pricier restaurants overlooking Dubai Fountains to lower-budget fast-food chains, the choice is overwhelming.

The entrance to Burj Khalifa is also located here, at the lower level of the Mall. Depending on your preference for daytime or nighttime views and/or which time slot you can get for Burj Khalifa (more info below), you can explore the Dubai Mall first or after visiting the tower.

The Dubai Mall complex is so huge and has so much to offer that you could easily spend an entire day and still not see part of it! In addition to hundreds of stores and restaurants, you will also find all kinds of family-friendly attractions here, including an indoor ice skating rink, KidZania , MirrorMaze, cinemas, indoor playgrounds, and many others.

TIP: Do not miss the Dubai Mall Waterfall and Dubai Aquarium. Both can be admired for free, but if you want to visit the aquarium inside, you’ll need a ticket (and it’s really expensive for what it is and even worse if you didn’t think to get your tickets online…). So if you want to visit here, consider this combo ticket with Burj Khalifa (and book in advance!).

Good to know: Dubai Mall is huge and overwhelming for a first-time visitor. There are multiple levels, interconnected with countless staircases and elevators, plus multiple entrances and exits. So foresee plenty of time for everything and don’t plan too many attractions on the same day. Or do the things you absolutely want to do first and then see if you still have time and energy left for the rest.

Burj Khalifa

The highest building in the world, Burj Khalifa is the most popular tourist attraction in Dubai. While you can admire this iconic building from outside as much as you like, you will need a ticket to visit the ‘At the Top’ experience.

There are several options for which levels you can visit, and ticket prices vary depending on that, but also on the time of the day when you come.

The standard ticket includes levels 124 and 125 and gives you access to unparalleled 360° views over Dubai and the Arabian Gulf. You can also opt for this ticket that includes levels 124 and 125 as well as lunch or dinner at Rooftop, The Burj Club.

PRO TIP: We recommend getting this ticket that includes access to SKY Level 148 (in addition to standard levels). This ticket also gives you priority access to security and the elevator, which will save you a lot of time and stress. That’s worth a higher price in itself. It also includes an introductory tour with a guest ambassador and access to the lounge with snacks and hot drinks (except during the daytime in the month of Ramadan).

Practical information: The busiest and most expensive time to visit Burj Khalifa is ‘around’ sunset, which in practice means the entire late afternoon. For example, if the sunset is at 6.30 PM, ticket prices are higher between 3 PM and sunset time… But if you only enter at 6.30, the sun will long be gone by the time you get to the top, so I see no point in paying more for the time slots that are too close to the actual sunset time…

TIP: If you want to enjoy daytime views, the sunset, and night views, book a time slot about 1.5-2 hours before the sunset. That way, you should be able to get to the top in time, even if there are long queues. Alternatively, as already said before, get priority tickets which will save you a lot of queueing.

Dubai Fountains & Burj Lake Boat Ride

+-15-30 MINUTES.

No trip to Dubai would be complete without seeing the famous Dubai Fountains show at Burj Lake . You can find these fountains outside of the Dubai Mall, at the foot of Burj Khalifa.

While this area is always nice to explore and walk around, the best time to be here is in the evening, when you can see a musical show and the fountains dancing with the backdrop of Burj Khalifa.

The fountain schedule is as follows: daily at 1 PM and 1.30 PM, plus every 30 minutes from 6 PM to 11 PM. On Fridays, there is no show at 1 PM, but there is one at 2 PM. The shows are always slightly different and if you come here in the evening, you’ll likely catch a few of them.

TIP: In addition to seeing the fountains from land, you can also opt for a short scenic boat ride on Burj Lake . These boats also give you a front-row seat during a fountain show. It looks very touristy, but the kids wanted to do it on our recent trip and we all enjoyed it more than I expected. It’s quite affordable for Dubai standards and we all found that it was well worth it. It’s also a nice way to rest your legs a bit after all the sightseeing.

Spend the rest of your day/evening in the Dubai Mall area. Afterward, take a metro or a taxi back to your hotel.

Good to know: The taxi and Uber stands at the Dubai Mall are located at one of the underground levels, quite far from the Dubai Fountains, and are very confusing to find (plus, the taxi stand is not the same as the one for Uber).

So if you want to call it a day after visiting the fountains, simply walk to any public road on either side of Burj Lake and call a taxi from there – it’s so much easier! For example, there is a taxi drop-off point on the main road behind the Dubai Opera.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood – Dubai Creek – Traditional Souks – Dubai Desert.

Day 2 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Old Dubai – we recommend visiting with a guided tour .
• Dubai Desert tour – there are many options including various activities .

When you think of Dubai, you probably associate it with skyscrapers and all the iconic modern-day landmarks. However, no trip to Dubai would be complete without exploring its old town and the desert.

So on your second day, we recommend that you spend some time getting to know the more traditional side of Dubai.

Here is what your day could look like:

9.30 AM – 12.30 PM.

In the morning, take a couple of hours to explore the Old Dubai.

Start at the nicely restored Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood . Here, you can find several low-key museums and a few traditional restaurants, but the best thing to do is simply walk around the area. Here, you will find a completely different Dubai, as it used to look in the not-so-distant past.

Afterward, take a ride on a traditional Abra boat to the northern side of Dubai Creek. Here, you will find the two most popular traditional markets in Dubai: the Spice Souk and Gold Souk .

TIP: We recommend visiting this area with a local guide . Not only because it’s easier and you don’t need to plan anything, but it’s also a nice way to get to know more about the history of the UAE and learn about local traditions and customs. Plus, you can get some tips for haggling at the markets.

Good to know: There are many tours that visit the Old Town. They all cover pretty much the same places, including the boat ride. Most tours take about 3 hours, are very affordable, and have great reviews. The main difference is that some of them include some/more local food and drinks.

Frankly, it’s really hard to choose a tour. I wasted hours reading descriptions and reviews and was still none the wiser… So save yourself the trouble and just pick any highly-rated tour that suits your itinerary and you should be fine.

In the end, we chose this guided tour because it includes quite a lot of local food at one of the best traditional restaurants (in addition to the markets and other sights that all tours visit). But if you are less interested in food and more in the area, you can find plenty of cheaper tours as well. Most of them include at least one local snack too.

On our first visit to Dubai many years ago, we opted for a bit longer city tour that included a few other areas as well. The old town part of both these tours was very similar.

After visiting the old town, get back to your hotel and take some time to relax and enjoy the pool. Depending on the location of your hotel, which desert tour you booked, and the pick-up time for the tour, you should have a couple of hours of free time.

Good to know: When booking a tour that includes a pick-up/drop-off at your accommodation, keep in mind, that they will usually pick you up about 30-45 minutes before the official starting time. If you book tours online, they will usually reach out to you via WhatsApp either the evening before or in the morning.

TIP: Don’t eat too much for lunch if you book a desert tour that includes a BBQ dinner. There is so much food on these tours (and it’s delicious) – you won’t be hungry. Plus, if you opt for a dune-bashing in a jeep, it’s better that you haven’t eaten too much just before that…

Desert Safari

3 – 10 PM.

A visit to the desert is another experience that should be in any Dubai itinerary. No matter which tour you choose, you are in for a good time, but be sure to read tour descriptions so that you know what exactly to expect!

There are  many desert tour options , either about 4 or 7 hours. Unless you want to go on a hot air balloon (in which case it will likely be in the morning), we recommend looking into afternoon/evening tours that include a BBQ dinner.

On these longer tours, there is usually one main activity, such as a 4×4 dune safari in a jeep, a quad bike ride, or a camel ride. The rest of the time is spent in a Bedouin camp where you can find all kinds of different experiences (sandboarding, taking pictures with falcons or camels, traditional dance shows, henna painting, etc.) which are all included with the tour.

The food on these tours is usually very good and plentiful. Water is included and most of the time, soft drinks and local warm beverages are included as well.

Our experience:  We have been on two different desert tours in Dubai (on different trips). They were both evening tours including dinner, had very similar itineraries, and were both very good. The main activity on  the first tour we did was dune bashing in a jeep. Other activities included sandboarding, a very short camel ride, a traditional Tanoura dance show, etc.

On a recent trip, we opted for  this highly-rated tour . The main activity this time was a 45-minute camel ride. Other activities included taking pictures with falcons, henna tattoos, shisha pipe, traditional dance shows, a fire show, etc.

Good to know: Just like with the old town tours, there are so many desert tour options that it can be overwhelming to pick one. First, decide what you want to do – for example, quad biking , a camel ride , etc. Then, read the description so that you know what’s included. For example, many tours include a short camel ride (for a picture), but only very few do a longer trek through the desert.

In general, all these tours are quite similar, and – at least in our experience – very good. Just be sure you know what you are booking so that you don’t end up on a quad bike while you were expecting to sit on a camel…

Burj Al Arab – Souk Madinat Jumeirah – The Palm – JBR Beach – Dubai Marina.

Day 3 – some ideas for activities on this day:

• Inside tour or a Royal Suites tour + gold cappuccino .
• The View at The Palm Observatory
• Sightseeing Helicopter Ride
• Luxury Yacht Sightseeing Tour .
• Zip Line Across Marina .
• Marina E-scooter Tour .

On your third day in Dubai, we recommend visiting the area around Burj Al Arab, The Palm, and Dubai Marina and potentially also the nearby JBR Beach .

If you just walk around without visiting many attractions, then you can easily see all these places in a day. If, however, you opt for any of the activities, you will have to adjust your itinerary depending on the place/time of whatever you decide to do.

There are a lot of attractions that you can choose from on this day, but none of them are ‘must-do’. So a lot depends on your interests and budget. Also, don’t book too many different activities at different locations for the same day, and keep traffic in mind.

Here is what your third day in Dubai could look like:

Burj Al Arab & Souk Madinat Jumeirah

+-10 AM – 1 PM.

The sail-shaped Burj Al Arab is one of the most recognizable landmarks in Dubai. It’s renowned as one of the world’s most luxurious hotels with lavish interiors and extravagant experiences.

You can just see the hotel from the outside, or you can also book a tour of the interior . If you want to get a taste of true luxury, upgrade to this luxury tour which includes their world-famous gold cappuccino and a visit to the 25th floor where you can see the Royal Suites.

Set against the backdrop of the Burj Al Arab, Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a bustling souk with traditional Middle Eastern charm. This area also has some picturesque waterways offering nice views of the Burj Al Arab.

Good to know: Depending on what you decide to do in this area, you can visit both places in about half an hour. If you book one of the tours, you’ll need at least 2 hours. In that case, we recommend booking the earliest tour, at 10 AM, and having lunch at the souk.

+- 1.30 – 3 PM.

The Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island shaped like a giant palm tree. Stretching into the azure waters of the Arabian Gulf, The Palm is connected to the mainland with bridges and tunnels. The island is home to a large number of luxurious hotels and opulent residences.

One of the most famous attractions here is Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis Hotel, but since you need at least a day for it, we recommend visiting the water park separately – see day 6 of our itinerary.

On this day, I would just focus on sightseeing. The best place to be is The View at The Palm Observatory from where you can enjoy nice 360° views including a good overview of this unique island. Alternatively, for even better aerial views, you can also opt for a sightseeing tour by helicopter .

If you are looking for nice views and want to relax at the pool, you could also check out the Aura Skypool . Keep in mind that no kids are allowed and that you will need to reserve a specific time slot in advance.

Good to know: Also here, the timing will depend on the activities you choose to do. If you just visit The Palm Observatory (and prebook timed entry tickets in advance!), 1 – 1.5 hours should be sufficient. A helicopter tour takes less time and is better organized, but you also need to arrive a bit earlier, etc. so to be on the safe side, I’d plan about an hour as well.

Dubai Marina

LATE AFTERNOON & EVENING.

Next, head to Dubai Marina , just 10 minutes drive from The Palm. Or – if you want to make the most out of your day – visit Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR Beach) first and then the Marina after that (the two areas are just next to each other).

The JBR – Marina Beach has a very nice waterfront area with access to a public beach and many cafes and restaurants. In the distance, you can also see the Dubai Eye (Ain Dubai), the world’s largest Ferris wheel. However, it’s been closed for years. The area is nice, but since it’s on a separate ‘island’, you would need quite a lot of extra time to visit there.

Dubai Marina is one of the nicest walkable areas to explore in Dubai. There is not one specific place that you ‘must’ see here and the best thing is to simply walk around along the Marina Walk (see our map for details). On the way, you can also visit the Marina Mall . Alternatively, consider joining a guided e-scooter tour – it’s a great way to see a lot of this vast area without having to walk.

In addition, there are quite a lot of activities that you can do at Dubai Marina. The most popular are luxury yacht sightseeing tours . If you are interested in water sports, you can go jet skiing or parasailing . Adrenaline seekers will love the zip line across the Marina …

TIP: Dubai Marina is also very nice in the evening. The atmosphere is great, there are lots of good restaurants, etc. So no matter how you plan this day of your Dubai itinerary, I recommend that you end it at the Marina. Scenic boat cruises in the dark are also really great, offering wonderful night-time views of the Marina skyline.

Good to know: We recommend at least an hour or two for the Marina Walk. In addition, boat tours in this area are really worth your time and some of them can take 2-3 hours. All in all, I would plan a good half a day in this area.

Day 4 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Abu Dhabi day tour – there are tons of options .

No trip to Dubai would be complete without visiting Abu Dhabi , the capital city of the UAE. It’s about 1.5- 2 hours drive from Dubai, so doable as a day trip.

Just to be clear – there is a lot more to see and do in Abu Dhabi than you could possibly see in a day.

Half a day tour is a good option if you are really short on time and just want to visit the main landmark – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. But with a week in Dubai, you could definitely spare a day. So we recommend taking a full-day tour to Abu Dhabi. That way, you can see several other places and get a much better idea of what Abu Dhabi is like.

Abu Dhabi Day Trip

Our experience: We booked this highly-rated day tour and I can highly recommend it. It’s one of the most complete Abu Dhabi tours I could find.

It includes a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Etihad Towers observation deck, and the Royal Palace, Qasr Al Watan.

For more information, the best tour options, and tips for planning a day trip to Abu Dhabi, please see our detailed guide via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Abu Dhabi Day Tour From Dubai

Days 1-4 of our recommended Dubai itinerary include most of the must-sees. But there are quite a few other attractions that are also very popular and considered ‘must do’. However, I find that a lot depends on who you are traveling with, what your interests are, and also on your budget.

Anyway, to help you plan your time, we highlight several of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai on days 5-7 of this itinerary. We grouped them taking into account their location so that you can make the most out of your time. Take a look below!

Day 5 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Dubai Miracle Garden – ticket .
• Global Village – tickets .
• Optional: Dubai Butterfly Garden .
• Alternative for families: IMG Worlds of Adventure .

Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village are located very close to each other and can be easily visited on the same day/evening. There are also tours/private transfers that can bring you to both places (in about 6 hours).

Good to know: The Miracle Garden is open from 9 AM until 9 PM (11 PM on weekends) so could be visited at any time. However, Global Village is only open from 4 PM (6 PM during Ramadan) until midnight (1 AM on weekends). Furthermore, Tuesdays are reserved for families and women.

TIP: You could spend a good part of this day at the pool/beach and only do sightseeing in the late afternoon/evening. Or, if you absolutely want to make the most out of your time, you could also visit the Dubai Butterfly Garden which is located just next to Miracle Garden.

Alternatively, families might enjoy a visit to IMG Worlds of Adventure , one of the largest indoor theme parks in the world. The tickets are pricey so if you opt for this, you’ll likely want to spend the whole day here.

Miracle Garden

+- 1-2 HOURS.

Miracle Garden Dubai is a huge floral wonderland with over 150 million flowers. It boasts a breathtaking array of meticulously crafted floral displays, sculptures, castles, and all kinds of structures, all adorned with millions – yes, millions – of blooming flowers.

Some of their sculptures have won various Guinness World Records. You probably already get the vibe in the UAE – everything is big, bigger, the biggest… This impressive garden is no exception. They even have a flowery version of the Emirates A380 airbus, covered in more than 500,000 fresh flowers and plants. 

However, remember that you are in the middle of a desert so it’s difficult to keep most plants alive in a climate like this. That’s probably the reason why the overwhelming majority of flowers are petunias, in just a few different colors.

Good to know: Book tickets in advance and count about 1-2 hours for a visit here. The morning hours are the quietest, but if you want to visit Global Village as well, then it’s best to come in the afternoon and visit both places together.

Global Village

+- 3-4 HOURS.

Global Village Dubai offers an immersive cultural experience taking you on a journey ‘around the world’. The name pretty much says it all – it’s a place where you can experience different cultures while exploring pavilions, each representing another country.

Over 90 countries are represented, showcasing their unique heritage, traditions, products, and traditional foods. From sampling diverse cuisines to shopping for handicrafts, clothing, and souvenirs from around the globe, there’s something for everyone. In addition, they also have live performances, cultural shows, carnival rides, etc.

Good to know: Global Village is one of the most affordable attractions in Dubai and regular tickets cost just a few bucks. However, this is just a ticket to get inside and you’ll have to pay extra for most of the attractions – a bit like visiting a country fair. Plan to spend at least 3-4 hours here.

TIP: Global Village is one of the most visited attractions in Dubai, popular with locals as well as international tourists. So avoid weekends and try to be at the entrance a bit before it opens because it quickly fills up. Friday and Saturday evenings can get crazy busy.

Day 6 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Atlantis Aquaventure – various ticket options .
• Wild Wadi – entry ticket .
• Dubai LEGOLAND – water park or theme park .

Alternative ideas for this day:

• Snorkeling day trip to Fujairah .
• Al Ain ‘Garden City’ day trip .
• Half-day camel trekking .
• Half-day falconry safari .

If you have a week in Dubai, we highly recommend visiting at least one of the water parks, especially if you are traveling with children or teenagers and there’s only that much sightseeing they can handle in the hot desert climate.

But no worries if you are not interested in spending a day on water slides, there are tons of other amazing things to do in and near Dubai. In that case, see our alternative suggestions above . For more info about waterparks – see below.

Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark & Lost Chambers Aquarium

There are several water parks in Dubai. By far the best and most popular is Aquaventure at Atlantis The Palm , the biggest water park in the world. With over 100 rides and attractions, Aquaventure has something to offer for the whole family. You can also meet dolphins and sea lions, and enjoy all kinds of water sports. In addition, you can visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium which is located just near the water park entrance.

Wild Wadi and LEGOLAND Water Park are also nice water parks. They are much smaller, with about 30 rides and attractions at Wild Wadi and about 20 at LEGOLAND.

These water parks are nice for families with younger kids and are incomparably less busy than Aquaventure. But if you want to experience the very best waterpark in Dubai, Aquaventure wins every time.

Good to know: You can spend the entire day at any of these water parks.

PRO TIP: Atlantis Aquaventure tickets are cheaper if booked online and over a week in advance. We recommend a combo ticket that includes entry to the Lost Chambers Aquarium (it’s open late in the evening so you can easily visit after you leave the water park). For more tips and helpful information for your visit, see our detailed guide via the link below.

LEARN MORE: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

Day 7 – planning info/tickets to book:

• Dubai Frame – timed-entry tickets .
• AYA Universe – timed-entry tickets .
• Optional: iFly Dubai and/or Green Planet Indoor Rainforest .

On the last day of this itinerary, I want to highlight some additional experiences that we personally really enjoyed on a recent trip to Dubai. They are located not too far from each other in the northern part of the city (not too far from the airport) and could be done on the same day.

If you want to take it easy on your last day in Dubai, you could also just visit one or two of these attractions and spend the rest of the time chilling by the pool.

The two places that we recommend the most are Dubai Frame and AYA Universe. Our kids also LOVED iFly Dubai , but it’s located quite a bit further away and is probably also not for everyone’s interests. The Green Planet indoor rainforest is also amazing (and definitely not just for kids). You can find more info about each of these below.

Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame cannot be missed (quite literally). You will see this architectural landmark towering in the city skyline when driving around the city and from many other places. But if you want to visit it, you’ll need to allocate a few hours.

Looking like a gigantic picture frame, this iconic structure consists of two vertical towers connected by a glass-bottomed bridge. From its observation deck, you can enjoy panoramic 360° views of the city’s evolving skyline on one side and the historical old town on the other.

The views are ok but – in our opinion – not as good as from the other observation platforms which we mentioned earlier in this itinerary. Still, we found a visit here quite worth it, because the building itself is truly remarkable.

Good to know: Depending on how busy it is, you’ll need 1-2 hours for a visit. Be sure to book tickets online or you may not be able to enter at all (we saw a few disappointed families turned away at the entrance). Even with timed tickets, the queues are still long, especially in the afternoon. So if you want to visit without wasting too much time, I recommend booking an early morning time slot.

AYA Universe

One of the more recent attractions in Dubai, we stumbled upon AYA Universe by coincidence. And so glad we decided to visit because it became one of our favorite experiences in the city!

It’s difficult to describe this unique attraction. It’s like stepping into a dreamy world with captivating light displays and mesmerizing high-tech experiences. If anything, I could compare it to the worlds you see in Avatar movies. A colorful, fairytale-like universe that guarantees lots of positive emotions. Recommended!

AYA Universe is located inside WAFI City Mall. The interior of this shopping center is inspired by an Egyptian theme and is quite interesting to see as well.

Good to know: Count about 45 minutes for a visit here, an hour if you also want to walk around the Mall (it’s very small compared to most others in Dubai). Book your tickets online if you want to be able to visit AYA Universe at a specific time slot. There were just a few people when we arrived here in the morning but quickly got much busier. It’s a rather small facility and I think they cap the number of visitors that are allowed inside at the same time.

iFly Dubai is an indoor skydiving center located in Mirdif City Centre Mall. This is your chance to experience skydiving in a safe and controlled environment. Btw, they have the real thing in Dubai too – see skydiving tours here .

Before you start, you get a short training session explaining some basic techniques. The regular experience includes two 1-minute flights. It may not sound like much, but they say that when you leap from a plane when actually skydiving, the free-fall time is even shorter than a minute.

Good to know: They work with time slots and allow about 10 people per half an hour, so it’s best to book in advance . iFly Dubai says that it’s suitable for all ages. Most people in our group were children and teens, but also a few adults. Count about an hour for the whole experience.

Despite the name, City Centre Mirdif Mall is not located in the center at all. It’s actually quite a drive from most other attractions in Dubai (about 15-20 minutes from Dubai Frame or AYA Universe). This shopping center is quite big and has many nice restaurants, so you can also have lunch here.

The Green Planet

+- 2 HOURS.

The Green Planet is an indoor rainforest featuring several thousand tropical plants and a variety of birds and animals freely roaming inside. If you’ve ever been to a rainforest in Costa Rica , the plants and the animals you can see here are similar.

The Green Planet has several sloths, squirrel monkeys, and all kinds of reptiles. You can also visit a bat cave, see all kinds of colorful birds, and admire the world’s largest man-made and life-sustaining tree.

It’s particularly nice for families with children but is very enjoyable for adults as well. Recommended.

Good to know: The Green Planet is located next to the City Walk Mall in the center, not far from the Dubai Mall area. You can get tickets online . Plan about 2 hours for a visit. The Green Planet closes at 6 PM (much earlier than most other attractions), so keep this in mind when deciding which places to visit on this day and in which order.

So, this sums up our recommended Dubai itinerary. As you can see, there’s A LOT to experience in Dubai and a week will fly by before you know it.

The nice thing about planning a trip to Dubai is that it has such a wide variety of activities and attractions allowing you to personalize your trip and find something that everyone in your group/family will enjoy.

I hope that our suggested itinerary gives you some inspiration on what to see and do in Dubai and helps you plan a perfect holiday.

READ ALSO: What to Wear in Dubai

More info & travel inspiration for Dubai:

• Dubai Travel Tips
• How Expensive is Dubai
• Dubai Public Transport
• Dubai in February
• Best Things to Do in Dubai
• Best Tours in Dubai
• Abu Dhabi Tour from Dubai
• Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai
• Interesting Facts About Dubai

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

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DUBAI TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary

A mixture of sadness, pride, and joy enveloped my heart when a very dear friend announced that she had been reassigned to their company’s UAE office. Sadness because I was losing yet another friend to a faraway land. We had been very close, and the thought of not being able to constantly see her or talk to her brought tears to my eyes. Pride because this was the promotion she had been hoping for. And joy, because — and I’m embarrassed to admit this — I finally found a reason to visit Dubai.

Well, in true Catriona Gray fashion, I’m always that guy who finds a silver lining and makes a run for it. Months later, I was in Dubai.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING DUBAI

Dubai is a true global city, where people from all around the world come together. It is the capital of the Emirate of Dubai, one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The other six are Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain.

Although Dubai City is the capital of the Emirate of Dubai, it is not the federal capital of the UAE. That title belongs to Abu Dhabi. Yet, Dubai is the most populous, with the biggest fraction of the population composed of migrant workers, like the rest of the country. For many, like my friend, it is a land of opportunity. Much of the economy is driven by foreign migrant workers, which make up 80% of UAE’s population and 90% of its workforce.

Dubai is also the most popular destination among tourists, registering an estimated 16.7 million visitors in 2018 alone. Dubai has become the region’s banner city for opulence and grandeur. It is well-known for its ambitious projects like its artificial offshore islands and towering skyscrapers like Burj Khalifa, the tallest man-made structure in the world.

Here are more facts about this city.

• Location : Dubai Emirate, United Arab Emirates. UAE lies on the southeastern chunk of the Arabian peninsula in Western Asia (what many westerners like to call the Middle East). The UAE shares its borders with Saudi Arabia to the south and Oman to the east. Coordinates: 25°15′47″N 55°17′50″E.
• Time Zone : UTC+4 (UAE Standard Time). Dubai is 4 hours behind the Philippines, Singapore or Malaysia; and 5 hours behind Japan.
• Language : Arabic is the national language and the official language of the UAE. But English is the second language and is widely spoken.
• Currency : UAE dirham (AED, Dhs, د.إ). AED 1 is roughly equivalent to PHP14, USD 0.27, SGD 0.37, EUR 0.24 (as of July 2019).
• Modes of Payment : Cash and credit cards are both commonly accepted.

WHERE TO STAY IN DUBAI

Dubai is a coastal city, a long stretch of concrete caught between the waves of the Persian Gulf and the dunes of the vast Arabian Desert. The city is divided into several districts but these are what tourists should be more familiar with.

• Downtown Dubai. If you haven’t been to Dubai, this is probably the image that first pops in your head when you imagine the city. Downtown Dubai is where you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic structures including Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest shopping complexes. It is also sometimes called the New Dubai.
• Dubai Marina. This is one of the most ideal places to stay in the city, which is probably why most European expats live here. It is hemmed in by a beach and is easily accessible. It is also close to a lot of attractions.
• Jumeirah Beach. Another seaside district that is linked to almost anywhere in the city. Jumeirah is centrally located, surrounded by the Marina, the Downtown area, and the Old City. It is home to diverse communities including Europeans, Pakistanis, and Filipinos.
• Al Barsha. Situated between Marina and Jumeirah. The great thing about this area is that it is well-connected to the rest of the city. You’ll also find several mid-range hotels here.
• Bur Dubai. The heart and soul of Dubai. When they say Old City, they usually mean Bur Dubai. This was the center of the city before all the developments happened. If you want a more cultural and historical approach to your trip, this is the place to be. Lots of vibrant souks (bazaars), traditional structures, assorted restaurants, and cheap accommodations.
• Deira. Traditionally considered an extension of the Old City. Think of it as a more modern Bur Dubai, also with plenty of affordable dining, shopping, and lodging options. The best part about Deira is its proximity to the airport.

Best Area to Stay in Dubai

What’s the best area? It depends on what you want to experience and how much you’re willing to spend. The Downtown and Marina areas are closest to the modern attractions but are notably expensive. When you search for hotels online, don’t be shocked to see hotels at USD 400 to 1000 per night. Dubai is widely considered a luxury destination, so there are dozens of luxury hotels especially in these areas. There are a few more affordable options.

Bur Dubai and Deira offer a more traditional experience at a significantly lower price. If you’re on a budget, Bur Dubai and Deira may offer more options that are within your spending range. You can find a double room at a great hotel for USD 100 per night. Budget hotels are also available, offering much cheaper rooms.

Top Budget Hotels in Dubai

• Rove City Centre. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Rove Trade Centre. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Rose Park Hotel Al Barsha. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Roda Links Al Nasr. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Zabeel House MINI Al Seef. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Top Dubai Hostels and Dorms

A more pocket-friendly option is staying at a hostel. Although very few of them are available, they are all around the city, even in the pricier districts. You can find a dorm bed for USD 20 to 30 per night.

Here are some Dubai hostels that can be booked via Agoda.

• AtTheTop Bed & Breakfast. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Backpacker 16 Dubai Hostel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• California Hostel Dubai Beach. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Super Stay. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Dubai Hotels!

How to get to dubai.

Dubai is served by two airports: Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).

Dubai International Airport (DXB). Located northeast of the city center, near Deira. DXB is the busiest airport in the world by international passenger traffic. DXB is also the hub for airlines Emirates and flydubai. These two airlines alone connect Dubai to over 150 cities around the globe.

Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). Located south of the city center. Only a handful of commercial flights are operated here, primarily by Russia’s flag carrier Aeroflot and European low-cost airlines like Wizz Air. Most flights are seasonal.

If you’re coming from Manila, the cheapest non-stop flights are operated by Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines. Here’s a quick random search on SkyScanner.

Emirates sometimes reduce their rates when there’s a promo.

All three airlines use DXB. Travel time from Manila is usually 9 hours, 30 minutes.

DUBAI AIRPORT TO CITY CENTER

The good news is, the Dubai International Airport is situated not too far from the city center. In fact, you can get to Bur Dubai in 15 minutes or Deira in 5 minutes. Here are some of your options.

• BY METRO. Dubai Airport is directly connected to the metro system, so just find out the metro station closest to your hotel. Both Terminals 1 and 3 have their own metro station. There’s one train leaving either station every 10 minutes. Operating hours: Saturday-Wednesday, 5:50am-12 midnight; Thursday, 5:30am-1am; Friday, 1pm-1am. Travel time: 15-20 minutes to Bur Dubai/Downtown, 2-5 minutes to Deira Fare: AED5 to Bur Dubai/Downtown, AED3-5 to Deira,
• BY TAXI. There’s a cab queue right outside the terminal. For taxis picked up at the airport, a flagdown rate of AED25 applies. Then, AED1.96 is charged per succeeding km. Travel time: 10 minutes to Deira, 15-20 minutes to Bur Dubai or Downtown Estimated fare: AED50-60 to Bur Dubai, AED 60-70 to Downtown.
• BY UBER/CAREEM. Uber operates in Dubai, so if you’re more comfortable with it, you can use this app to reach the city effortlessly. Aside from Uber, there’s also Careem, another transportation app, which you can use to book a private car or even taxi.

Note that if you decide to take the metro, you’re allowed only 2 suitcases and you must store them in dedicated areas.

HOW TO GET AROUND DUBAI

Dubai has one of the most advanced transportation system in the region, with a very uncomplicated metro, plenty of ride-sharing options, and the usual taxi service. But before we delve deeper into each, it is important to be familiar with the transport zones.

The city’s public transportation network is run and managed by Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), a branch of the local government. The agency has centralized all modes of transportation into a system that appears intimidating at first, but is more forgiving once you get the hang of it.

The city is divided into seven fare zones. But for tourists, most of the points of interest are within Zones 2, 6 and 5.

Here are the zones that cover some of the most visited areas:

• Zone 2: Dubai Marina, the Palm Jumeirah, Al Barsha
• Zone 6: Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall), Bur Dubai
• Zone 7: Deira, Dubai International Airport

You can use RTA’s Journey Planner to figure out the best route you can take and the corresponding fare. The fare depends on the number of zones your journey will straddle and the type of ticket you use. Speaking of tickets…

Understanding Nol Cards

Nol cards are reloadable cards that give you easy access to Dubai’s public transportation system including the metro, buses, trams, and the Dubai ferry. All you need to do is hover the card above the reader and go. It’s similar to Hong Kong’s Octopus card or Singapore’s EZ card, but because of the zonal fares, it’s actually much closer to Melbourne’s myki, if you’re familiar with it.

There are four cards available: red, silver, gold, and blue (personalized). Assuming that you’re staying in Dubai for a short time, let’s just focus on the RED TICKET because it’s the most suitable for tourists.

The RED Ticket is a disposable paper ticket that you can top up. Here’s what you need to know about it.

• Price: AED 6 (AED 2 for the actual card and AED 4 balance that you can use immediately)
• Reload limit: Can only be used up to 10 single journeys or 5 daily passes. (I’ll explain these daily passes later).
• Types: It can only be used on one mode of transportation at a time. For example, METRO only or BUS only. You cannot use one card for metro and then a bus later. You will have to buy separate tickets if you change the mode of transport.
• Validity: Valid for 90 days.

For short-term visitors, the RED Ticket is often sufficient. But if you’re interested in other types, we have a separate post for it.

If you feel like you’ll be taking public transportation multiple times a day, you might want to consider purchasing a pass instead of paying for every single ride. Purchasing a pass means you get to use the metro or bus for an unlimited number of times within the covered period.

The pass comes in five variants, tagged by number of days: 1-day, 7-day, 30-day, 90-day and 365-day passes.

A 1-Day Pass that covers all zones costs AED 22 (AED 2 for the card + AED 20 balance).

Note that your RED TICKET must have a minimum balance equivalent to 1 trip or 1 daily pass. Other cards must have a minimum of AED 7.5. Spot checks are done, and penalties apply.

Wifi Rental and Local SIM in Dubai

For extra help when navigating or taking public transportation around Dubai, stay connected! A good Internet connection will allow you to use travel apps like Google Maps and Uber. You can also use one of the many Dubai Metro apps available.

Klook offers pocket wifi devices for rent and local data SIM cards that you can pick up at Dubai International Airport. Choose whatever is better for you. Both options will give you access to the city’s 4G/LTE network. If you’re a group, the pocket wi-fi might be more convenient.

Dubai Metro links most of the city’s most popular attractions. It is composed of only two lines: RED and GREEN. It’s also easy to use. Just touch on your Nol card as you pass through the gates and make your way to the platforms to catch a train.

Trains run frequently from 5:50am-12 midnight (Saturday-Wednesday); 5:30am-1am (Thursday); 1pm-1am (Friday). Note that in Dubai, weekend is Friday-Saturday.

Here are some things you need to know about Dubai Metro.

• It is generally comfortable, but expect some crowding during rush hours (7-9am and 4-7pm).
• There are separate cars for GOLD class passengers. You must only use it if you’re holding a GOLD nol card. Otherwise, you might be fined a substantial amount.
• Female passengers may also choose to use the FEMALE-ONLY cars.
• Chewing gum, eating, drinking, and sleeping are prohibited onboard the metro.
• Nol cards have a minimum balance that you must maintain. It’s AED 7.5 for silver, gold, and blue cards; and the equivalent of one trip or a daily pass for the red ticket.
• Spot checks are sometimes done so always follow the rules. You don’t want to get fined.

There are plenty of Dubai Metro apps available on App Store and Google Play that you can use. Just make sure you know the nearest station to your origin and destination and it will show you how to get there (including the transfers) and how much the fare is.

With its network of wide roads, Dubai is a city ruled by cars. Despite the reliable metro, the taxi remains a very popular transportation mode. There are thousands of taxi units roaming the streets of Dubai.

A special fleet of pink cabs have also been deployed to serve female passengers. These taxis can pick up solo female passengers and groups with female members, but not solo males or male-only groups.

The standard taxi rate si AED 1.75/km. But take note of the following surcharges:

• Minimum fare: AED 12
• Regular taxi starting fare: AED 3 when hailed on the street, AED 6 when booked. A slightly higher night time rate applies (10pm-6am).
• Ladies taxi starting fare: AED 6 from 6am-10pm, AED 7 from 10pm-6am
• From the airport: AED 25
• When passing through the Sharjah border: AED 20
• When crossing a toll gate: AED 4

By Uber or Careem

Uber operates in Dubai, so if you’re more comfortable with it, you can use this app to reach the city effortlessly. Aside from Uber, there’s also Careem, another transportation app, which you can use to book a private car or even taxi.

According to my Dubai-based friends, the taxi is still slightly cheaper but Uber and Careem have better service. But between Uber and Careem, the latter is the better, cheaper option.

By Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

If you’re a fan of HOHO tourist buses, you’ll be glad that it’s also available in Dubai. If you’re not familiar, these are the open-top sightseeing buses that roam the city and makes a stop at some of the city’s most popular attractions. You don’t need to busy your mind with fares and navigation. All you need to do is hop in, present your ticket, and get off at your desired stop.

Here are some of the stops covered by the sightseeing bus.

• Burj Khalifa
• Jumeirah Mosque
• Mall of the Emirates
• Dubai Creek
• Deira City Center
• Miracle Garden

Global Village

There are 6 day routes and 2 night routes available. Each bus is also equipped with multi-lingual audio guide that can give more information about every stop. Every ticket also comes with FREE tours!

THINGS TO DO IN DUBAI

Burj khalifa observation deck.

Ride the world’s fastest elevator to the 124th-125th floor of the world’s tallest man-made structure, the Burj Khalifa. Enjoy a fantastic view of the emirates! If you want to skip the lines, you can book in advance below.

Hours Open: 8:30am–11pm, daily Nearest Metro Station: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station (Red Line)

Dubai Desert Safari

This is definitely the most unforgettable tour that I did in Dubai! A desert safari tour usually starts in the afternoon and ends at night. It will take you on a 4×4 ride on the red dunes of the Arabian desert. You also get to watch the sunset and have a glimpse into the Bedouin culture. At night, dinner will be served as you enjoy a traditional show, including a tanoura and belly dancing performances.

You’ll find a lot of desert safari tours on Klook, and almost all of them offer the same package. But the two below are the most popular. The first one is the regular tour, while the other is a more premium service. Both options include hotel pickup and drop off, and service of an English-speaking guide.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

This is the world’s largest indoor theme park! It spans an area of 1.5 million sq. ft., featuring dozens of attractions inspired by Marvel (Thor, Spider-Man) and Cartoon Network (Powerpuff Girls, Ben 10) among others. There’s also a spooky Haunted Hotel, for horror fans out there.

Opening time: 11am until sunset. Closing time: Between 8pm and 11pm, depending on time of the year and day of the week. Closest Metro Station: Mall of the Emirates Station (Red Line). From here, you can take a cab to IMG Worlds of Adventure.

Legoland Dubai

Legoland Dubai is the first Legoland in Western Asia. It harbors 40+ Lego-themed attractions and divided into six zones! It’s perfect for kids and kids at heart!

Opening time: 10am Closing time: Between 6pm and 8pm, depending on time of the year and day of the week. Nearest Metro Station: Ibn Battuta Station (Red Line). From here, take the bus to Dubai Parks and Resorts. There are 26 trips from 7am until 11:15pm.

Dubai City Tour

One of the best ways to truly appreciate the city is by joining a group tour. Not only will you get to see the tourist sites, you also learn about them along the way, with insights from locals. Klook’s Dubai City Tour will take you to some of the city’s historic and modern wonders alike including Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai Museum, and Palm Island. Hotel pick up and drop off are included.

Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the world. Aside from a great selection of stores and restaurants, it houses a lot of attractions that the whole family can enjoy including KidZania and the VR Park.

If you plan on trying out three of the attractions here, it would be best to purchase a Dubai Mall Attraction Pass, which you can use for up to 30 days. It also comes with a FREE SIM card worth AED65.

Hours Open: 10am-12am, daily. Nearest Metro Station: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station (Red Line).

Mall of the Emirates and Ski Dubai

The Mall of the Emirates is another well-known mall in Dubai with over 600 retail shops and 100 restaurants. Aside from shopping, it also takes pride in its fun attractions including Ski Dubai, an indoor ski park where you can enjoy snow activities like skiing and hamster balling!

Mall Hours: Sunday-Wednesday, 10am-10pm; Thursday-Saturday, 10am-12am. Ski Dubai Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 10am-12am; Friday-Saturday, 9am-12am. Closest Metro Station: Mall of the Emirates Station (Red Line).

Wild Wadi Water Park

Although situated next to a vast desert, Dubai has an obsession with water parks. One of the most established name is Wild Wadi Water Park, which boasts 30 heart-racing waterslides and rides, including the 32-meter Jumeirah Sceirah, the tallest slide in the region. I think this has been featured on the Amazing Race a couple of times, too!

Operating hours: 10am until sunset. Closing time is between 5:30pm and 10pm, depending on time of the year. Closest Metro Station: Mall of the Emirates Station (Red Line). From here, you can take a cab or the Bus 81 to Wild Wadi.

Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beaches

The coast of Dubai Marina and Jumeirah District are fringed with public beaches (JBR Beach, Jumeira Public Beach). You can swim, get a tan, or simple admire the view here.

Aside from the beach, visitors tend to gravitate towards The Walk , a waterfront boulevard flanked with retail outlets, cafes, and restaurants.

Dubai Miracle Garden

This is the biggest natural flower garden in the world, covering an area of over 70,000 square meters. The park features flowering plants that are creatively sculpted to mimic landmarks, animals, and other beautiful shapes. It’s a vibrant destination for the whole family, especially children!

It is not open year-round. The garden is routinely closed to the public in the extreme summer months (some time in April/May until October). It reopens some time in November.

Entrance Fee: Adult, 50 AED; Child (2-12yo), 40AED; Child below 2yo, FREE. Operating hours: November-April, 9am until 9pm/11pm. Closest Metro Station: Mall of the Emirates Station (Red Line). From here, you can take a cab or the Bus 105 to Dubai Miracle Garden.

Global Village is an international cultural theme park that combines tourism, entertainment and shopping. The cultures of around 90 countries are featured here, which makes a visit fascinating and, to a certain extent, educational. I enjoyed my time exploring this park, especially at night!

NOT open year-round! It welcomes visitors only from late October/early November until early April. Closed from April to October. The exact dates vary every year.

Entrance Fee: Adult, 15 AED; Child below 3yo or senior above 65yo, FREE. Operating hours: 4pm to 12am (weekdays), 1am (weekends) Closest Metro Station: Mall of the Emirates Station (Red Line). From here, you can take a cab or Bus 106 to the Global Village.

SAMPLE DUBAI ITINERARY

Here’s a sample 4-day 4-night Dubai itinerary. This assumes the following:

• You’re a party of 2 pax, splitting some of the costs like hotel and cab fare.
• You’re arriving at Dubai International Airport in the evening, so we added a Day 0.
• You’re staying at a budget hotel/hostel in Deira for AED72 per night per person. Check the nearest Metro Station.
• Your food budget is AED 25 per meal. You’ll find a lot of fast food chains or inexpensive restaurants within this budget. ZOOM, a convenience store chain in Dubai, also sells cheap packed meals.
• You only have 1 theme park visit. For Day 3, choose among IMG Worlds of Adventure, Wild Wadi and Legoland.
• Prices below are in UAE dirhams.

Note that the times here are just estimates, for sample purposes only. Actual times may vary so double check before your trip.

Feel free to change anything in the itinerary in order to match your preferences or flight schedule.

DAY 0 – ARRIVAL 09:40pm – Arrival at DXB 11:00pm – Buy nol ticket, top up, AED 10 11:30pm – Metro to Deira, AED 3 11:45pm – Walk to hotel 12:00pm – Hotel Check in

DAY 4 – DUBAI SOUKS 08:00am – Wake up call 09:00am – Early check out, leave bags 09:30am – Metro to Al Ghubaiba Station, AED 3 09:45am – Explore Souk places 12:00pm – Lunch, AED 25 01:30pm – Explore Bur Dubai, buy pasalubong 03:30pm – Metro to Deira, AED 3 04:00pm – Pick up bags at hotel 04:30pm – Metro to Airport, AED 3 05:00pm – Flight check-in 07:35pm – Flight out

If you follow the itinerary above, the total cost depends on what you choose for Day 3. But here are some ballpark figures per person:

• Option A (with Legoland Dubai): AED 870 (PHP 12,110, USD 237, SGD 323, EUR 213)
• Option B (with IMG Worlds of Adventures): AED 825 (PHP 11,500, USD 225, SGD 306, EUR 202)
• Option C (with Wild Wadi Waterpark): AED 810 (PHP 11,280, USD 221, SGD 300, EUR 198)

The above estimates do NOT include accommodations, airfare, travel tax, and shopping expenses.

If you spend AED 72 per night on accommodations, Options A-C will cost you the following:

• Option A (with Legoland Dubai): AED 1083 (PHP 15,100, USD 299, SGD 402, EUR 265)
• Option B (with IMG Worlds of Adventures): AED 1038 (PHP 14,500, USD 283, SGD 385, EUR 254)
• Option C (with Wild Wadi Waterpark): AED 1019 (PHP 14,200, USD 277, SGD 378, EUR 249)

The above estimates do not include airfare, travel tax, tips, and shopping expenses.

We added a little bit of extra allowance to cover incidental expenses, price adjustments, and other costs we might have missed.

There are many ways to further reduce the expenses. See the next section!

MORE DUBAI TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Find a hotel that is within walking distance of a Metro Station , so you don’t need to take a cab all the time.
• Cut your food budget. The itinerary above assumes you’re spending AED 25 per meal. But you can find cheaper options especially at Asian restaurants. Shawarma, manakish and sandwiches are also a lot cheaper.
• If you can also find a place with a kitchen , you can prepare your own meals instead of eating out all the time.
• Form a group with other travelers. This will allow you to reduce food and taxi costs.
• Hit a supermarket or convenience store. A small bottled water at a restaurant can cost as much as AED 5. But you can find 1.5L of water at supermarkets for less than AED 2. Some convenience stores also sell cheap packed meals.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DUBAI

Is dubai safe.

It is generally safe. The government also wants to build its reputation as one of the safest destinations in the region. There are shady areas, but most of the touristy parts of the city are very safe. That said, practice common sense and beware of pickpockets especially at crowded places.

In addition, make sure you follow the local laws and customs. Although relatively loose compared to its neighbors, Dubai is still pretty conservative by Western standards.

Do we need a visa to visit Dubai?

If you’re holding a Philippine passport, yes, you need a visa to visit Dubai or any part of UAE. The good news is, it’s easy to get one. We have a separate post for the application here: HOW TO APPLY FOR A UAE VISA!

When is the best time to visit Dubai?

November to March , when the temperatures are pleasant and comfortable and when most seasonal attractions are open. There’s a reason why some of these sites are closed for business for the rest of the year.

While April and October can be tolerable, May to September is when the heat can be unforgiving.

Note that weekend in Dubai is NOT Saturday-Sunday. Instead, workdays are from Sunday-Thursday. Weekend is Friday-Saturday.

What type of power plug / socket is used in Dubai?

Type G , with 3 cornered pins. 220/240 V, 50 Hz.

What is the tipping custom in Dubai?

Tipping is appreciated in Dubai but NOT mandatory. At restaurants, the bill usually includes a service charge already, but if you enjoyed the service, tipping 10% is customary.

For taxi drivers, you can tip AED 5 or tell them to keep the change if it’s less than 10 dirhams.

For bell staff, AED 5-10 is sufficient.

What is the escalator etiquette in Dubai?

Walk to the left, stand to the right.

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣9️⃣ • 7️⃣ • 2️⃣6️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

Is this post helpful to you?

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Nice Article. Thanks for sharing the post. Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations. Your article explains all about Dubai very well. Thanks Again.

nice posting

Good article, nice sharing. good talked about place.

thanks for sharing.

Thanks for sharing all the information! VEry helpful. :-)

One question: Is there also a day pass that allows to take metro AND tram AND bus AND water taxi as often as you want? If yes, what is the price?

Thank you for sharing, I will be coming to Dubai as soon as possible

Fantastic article. I m inspire from this article. Dubai is the most beautiful place . I also want to come.

are gays, transgenders allowed to enter and travel in Dubai?

So informative.. I enjoyed your blog never knew things before about dubai.. thanks for sharing ..

Thanks, Dan!

Enjoyed reading the article Dubai City, really explains everything in detail, the article is very interesting and effective. Thank you and good luck for the upcoming articles

I think I’ve seen the entire Dubai city through your article. You’ve written it with such in-depth knowledge and details. The best Dubai blog in my opinion. Kudos to you!

The creativity in this post just summed the whole city in a few sentences. Thanks for taking me round Dubai in less than 30 minutes.

I am really crazy about Dubai and would love to visit very soon. I keep on reading articles written on Dubai, but, your blog has proved one of the best with something new to read and know about. A very detailed blog with amazing insights.

This is the best blog for those looking to travel to Dubai, you have described everything in detail. Thanks for the information!

Thank you very helpful for my Dec trip to Dubai this year.

Detailed and to the point. Thanks for this comprehensive guide

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Dubai itinerary: 1 to 7 days in the UAE

By Joan Torres 13 Comments Last updated on April 29, 2024

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Dubai might be known as the glitzy-glamorous Rich-Boy-and-Rich-Girl’s shopping capital, but there’s so much more to this character-filled city.

From hidden alleys to traditional souks, the magnificent desert and plenty of activities that involve experiencing the traditional Emirati culture, you will see that even 7 days in Dubai might not be enough to explore this unique Middle Eastern destination . 

The following comprehensive guide gives you plenty of tips for traveling to Dubai, as well as a complete 7-day  Dubai itinerary, including 2-day trips to Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

Please note that this guide not only tells you the touristic places but it also shows you how to explore Dubai off the beaten track .

In this Dubai travel guide you will find:

Table of Contents

• Tours and activities
• How to access blocked websites
• Transportation
• Where to stay
• Day 1 – The fancy and glamorous Dubai
• Day 2 – Dubai Marina & JBR
• Day 3 – The Palm, Kite Beach & Jumeirah

Day 4 – Old Dubai

• Day 5 – Dubai off the beaten track
• Day 6 – The camel market of Al Ain

Day 7 – Day trip to Abu Dhabi

• Bonus! Extending your itinerary
• More information

our recommended travel insurance for Dubai

With its Total Comfort Plan, IATI Insurance is the best insurance for countries where health care system is private and expensive, like Dubai.

A few quick tips before kicking off your week in Dubai

Best time to visit dubai.

Seriously, you must avoid summer, from June to September. In July and August, temperatures average 45ºC and it is extremely humid. In September, temperatures drop slightly but humidity still persists, so you can’t really hang out in outdoors, even at night. Try to come from mid-October to mid-May.

By the way, remember that the United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country which follows very strict Muslim Sharia laws. As a result, Western tourists need to be a bit careful and not behave as they would do in their home countries.

You don’t really need to be afraid but just apply common sense.

Know when to dress modestly

Dubai is a society with two sets of morals. On the one hand, in the places where the expats hang out, the beaches are filled with girls wearing fine bikinis and, in the glamorous clubs, you are likely to see girls dancing in dresses which are quite close to a bikini.

These areas are very tolerant regarding the way you dress but, in more conservative areas of the city, basically, in those places where the locals hang out, you should always cover both your shoulders and your knees but the good news is that you never need to cover your head.

For more info, read what to wear in Dubai .

Public displays of affection are not tolerated in the UAE

Not just kissing, but even hugging in public would be considered unlawful, including in Western areas. Once, I was kicked out from a bar because, since there was no place to sit, my girlfriend was sitting on my legs.

To be fair, the security guy told her to stand up three times but we completely ignored him, basically, because we found their norm to be absolutely ridiculous. 

During the holy month of Ramadan

I don’t recommend coming to UAE during Ramadan but, if you happen to be there, – just make sure not to eat, drink, chew gum or smoke in daylight and in public, otherwise, you will get a fine.

Moreover, during Ramadan, many bars close, there is barely any event going on and, basically, life stops pretty much. Seriously, if you can avoid it, don’t come here during Ramadan.  

Remember that, when driving, alcohol tolerance is 0

Driving with even a tiny percentage of alcohol in your blood warrants jail time. In three years of living and driving there, I never saw any alcohol control test but, if you had an accident and they found alcohol in your veins, you would, literally, be completely f&”?%ed. 

And the same goes for drugs

The UAE also has 0 drug tolerance. Even if they found you had 0.1g of weed at the airport customs, you would be done and likely put away for a long time.

This seems exaggerated but it can actually happen and the truth is that there are quite a few real horror stories from people who happened to have micro-remains from their last joint in their pocket and the dogs were able to smell it.

Alcohol availability

For your information, in Dubai, you can drink alcohol. Typically, only 4 to 5-star hotels can serve alcohol but the point is that people open regular bars and pubs and then they just attach it to a hotel.

As you can imagine, there are fancy hotels absolutely everywhere and each one of them has several bars attached to it, so finding a place where to drink is not a problem at all.

Furthermore, you can also find plenty of liquor stores around town but, unfortunately, you need a special license which only expats can get.

Alternatively, if you can drive, there is a liquor store named Barracuda in Umm Al Quwain, around 90km outside of Dubai, towards Ras Al Khaimah.

Remember that, in Dubai, many websites and internet calling services, like WhatsApp or Skype, are blocked and, if you want to access them, you will need a VPN. Read: How to find the right VPN for Dubai and the UAE

Tours and activities in Dubai

In your Dubai itinerary, there will be plenty of activities such as going on a trip to Musandam – an enclave within UAE that belongs to Oman – a desert safari or even going on a half-day trip to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi, you may want to go on a tour, as it is much cheaper than going by taxi and even than renting a car.

These are just some of their most popular activities:

• Dubai Burj Khalifa ticket Floor 124 & 125 – Climb the tallest building on Earth.
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: skip-the-line tickets – Skip the endless lines of the museum.
• Dubai: Hot air balloon, desert safari, quad biking – Enjoy the sunrise from 4000 feet above the ground.
• Dubai Aquarium & Burj Khalifa combo tickets – The tallest building on Earth and one of the most outstanding aquariums.
• Premium red dunes, camel safari & BBQ – Desert activities.
• Speedboat tour around Marina, Palm & Burj Al Arab – Explore these areas from the sea.
• Burj Khalifa tickets to floor 148 – For going to the highest floor you’ll need a special ticket.
• Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Mosque tour – Tour to the most breathtaking mosque in the region.

For more info check: The top 25 activities, excursions and day trips from Dubai

How to access blocked websites in Dubai

As you may know, in Dubai, the internet is censored, which means that many websites which you may need to use regularly are blocked.

Besides gambling, pornography, and Israeli-related sites, some of these blocked websites are:

• WhatsApp Calls
• Google Hangouts

In order to access them, you will need something called VPN (Virtual Private Network), and I recommend ExpressVPN the most reliable VPN ever.

If you don’t know anything about VPNs, read how to find the right VPN for Dubai

7 Days in Dubai – Transportation: How to move around

How to move around dubai.

By metro – There are 2 metro lines which take you to most touristic sites. The metro has plenty of air-conditioning and it is pretty modern. A single ride costs less than a US dollar but just bear in mind that distances in Dubai are huge, so going from one place to another may take some time. Also, the metro goes to the most common touristic places but, beyond that, you will be very limited.

By taxi –  The way to go. If you count the price per kilometer, it is inexpensive but, since distances are long, moving around can be costly. The shortest ride costs around 15AED (4USD). Going from the Marina to Old Dubai may cost around 60-70AED (16-19USD).

How to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi

Bus –  There’s a bus every twenty minutes from 6am to 11pm, from the Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai that takes you to Abu Dhabi. The buses are great, complete with air-conditioning and the cost from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is a mere 25AED (7USD). 

Taxi –  A trip from the Dubai airport to Abu Dhabi will cost you 300AED (81USD), one-way.

Etihad Coach Service –  There’s also the free Etihad coach service from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, for those who travel with Etihad in Economy. Tip: Make your free coach reservation 24 hours before your trip via Etihad’s website.

How to travel from Dubai to Sharjah

Public transportation – You can take the metro from Dubai to Rashidya Station in Sharjah in no time. You can also catch a bus to Sharjah from Deira bus station, which is only 15 minutes from the Dubai airport by taxi. If you’re in Bur Dubai, grab a bus from Bur Dubai Al Ghubaiba station to Sharjah.

Taxi – A taxi from Dubai to Sharjah will cost you 150AED ($40). 

Note that, whereas it’s pretty easy to travel from city to city by public transportation, in both Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, it’s not very convenient to move around if you don’t have your own car. Therefore, you should consider renting one if you don’t want to depend on taxis. 

If you are planning to go outside of Dubai, I highly recommend you rent a car because the public transportation system is not convenient at all.

The good news is that gas is very cheap and the car rental price is quite fair and, if you are from any country within the European Union, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, among some others, you can rent a car with your current driving license. For the rest of the nationalities, you will need a valid international driving license.

Where to stay in Dubai for a week

Dubai is a huge city with huge distances, composed of so many neighborhoods, so different from each other.

Choosing the area you want to stay in will depend on what you actually want to visit in Dubai, as well as on your budget, as prices vary enormously by area.

Moreover, if you are visiting the cities of Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, you need to decide whether to visit them on a day trip or spend the night there as well.

I recommend you stay one week in Dubai because it is the only place where there is something going on at night and evenings. After 7pm, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are pretty boring.

I highly recommend you doing some proper research before choosing which area to stay at. For example, if you decide to stay in the Old City because you are on a budget, you should know that the beach of the Marina is more than 30km away.

A taxi would cost you around 75AED (20USD) and by metro, it would take almost 2 hours, so you should really think twice.

That’s why I decided to write a very comprehensive post which will help you with that: Which area to stay in Dubai: A guide to find the right accommodation

Dubai itinerary: 7 days in the UAE

Don’t forget: Best desert safaris in Dubai

My suggested Dubai itinerary involves visiting the most touristic sites on day 1 and 2, Old Dubai on the 3rd day and, if you are here for more than 3 days, visiting off the beaten track places on the 4th.

Dubai itinerary – Places to visit Dubai in 7 days

Day 1 – The glamorous, touristic Dubai

Remember to check: Best excursions, activities and day trips from Dubai

If you are visiting Dubai  for just one day, I recommend you visit the two most famous landmarks:

Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa 

Dubai is about extravagant and nonsensical buildings and, therefore, the two main attractions in the city are the largest mall in the world and the tallest building on Earth, which is attached to the mall.

I personally don’t like the Dubai Mall, basically, because I am not into shopping but I like the Burj Khalifa. By the way, you should know that, despite being the biggest mall, they extended it in 2018 by adding an additional luxury section.

Read: Tips + How to travel to Saudi Arabia

As per the Burj Khalifa, being the tallest building you will ever see, nobody can deny that this 160-storey building is actually impressive.

It won’t be the tallest one for very long though, as its two biggest competitors, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, are currently building two brand-new towers which will be taller than the Burj Khalifa itself.

You can actually go to the top, but only to the 125th floor and, for some extra money, to the 148th. If you want to save money, you must book your tickets in advance.

In the evening, don’t miss the Dubai Fountain, which is the world’s largest musical fountain. It takes place every half an hour, from 6pm to 11pm.

Pro tip – I recommend you have dinner at Mezza House , my favorite Arab Restaurant in Dubai, serving the most delicious Lebanese food. It is right next to Burj Khalifa and it’s not particularly expensive.

Remember that you can visit Dubai on a half-day city tour .

Where to stay near Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa (Downtown)

Remember to check my guide to find the right accommodation in Dubai per area

Downtown is one of the fanciest and most expensive areas to stay at. Most people living here are expats, especially Arab Expats but a lot of Europeans. You should stay here if you want to be close to the best shopping areas and fanciest restaurants.

The most budget choice (Hostel) – The solo traveler – If you are on a tight budget, this brand-new hostel is right next to the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, it has a Carrefour just downstairs, has mind-blowing views and offers budget dorms. If you are a solo traveler , think no further!

Top-rated hotel – Rove Downtown – The best value for money in Downtown. Not expensive but its rooms and facilities are right at the luxury boundaries. For this price, you can’t find anything better in Dubai.

Souq Madinat and Burj Al-Arab 

Some people claim that Souq Madinat is a fake bazaar that tries to imitate a traditional Arab souq.

I like to focus on the positive part of travel so, for me, this is just the adaptation of an Arab bazaar to the real concept of Dubai, which is a 21st century, luxurious and modern city.

Souq Madinat is actually pretty, has some cool canals with giant turtles swimming around and, since the place is attached to a couple of hotels, there are plenty of bars and high-quality restaurants serving alcohol.

Pro-tip – Have dinner at Tortuga , the most authentic Mexican restaurant in Dubai. When I say authentic I mean Mexicans come here to eat because they serve traditional dishes and not fake Tex-Mex food like nachos, quesadillas, and burritos. My girlfriend is Mexican and we used to go there all the time.

Moreover, from Souq Madinat, you get amazing views of Burj Al-Arab, the most luxurious hotel in the world. You can’t visit it though, unless you book a tour in advance, which often involves eating at one of the restaurants.

Where to stay in Souk Madinat

In Souq Madinat there are only 5-star hotels, so if you are on a budget, stay away from here.

Top-rated hotel – Jumeirah Mina A’Salam – Well, this Arabic-luxury-thematic hotel is absolutely gorgeous and quiet, located right next to the canal and with fantastic views of both the sea and Burj Al-Arab. It is one of the best luxury options in town.

Day 2 – Dubai Marina and JBR

Marina and jumeirah beach residence.

The Western expat land, home to a pleasant beach walk that, somehow, tries to replicate Santa Monica’s in LA, is a set of skyscrapers, which is more like a resort than an actual neighborhood but the truth is that there are a few hundred people living in them.

With as little as 10 or 15 years of history and a pretty decent beach where you can ride a camel while staring at 60-floor buildings, Marina is the place where people hang out, from tourists to Western expats, locals and 18-year old kids who spend the day driving around the area just to show off their fancy cars.

You can also book a speed boat tour around the Marina . CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

I lived in the Marina for 3 years and, despite sounding like a cheesy and pretentious area, this is the nicest part to live in Dubai, basically because it is the most Western-friendly.

You can easily get there by metro by going to a station which used to be called Marina but now they keep on changing the name constantly. Damac Properties is how they call it now I think.

Pro tip – The beach is nice but it is mostly filled with tourists. Expats go to Kite Beach, located in Jumeirah.

Where to stay close to Marina

The most budget choice (Hostel) – Top of Marina – If you wanna stay in one of the highest floors with great views of the Marina skyline, this hostel is truly amazing. It is actually located in the building I used to live and it has a few swimming pools, a gym and just everything you need. If you are on a budget and want to stay in the greatest place, this is your hostel!

The top-rated option – The Address Dubai Marina – This is my favorite building in the whole Dubai Marina, as it is just simple but impressive at the same time and located right next to the canal. It is one of the top-rated 5-star hotels in the city and has the best bars in the whole Marina.

Day 3 – The Palm, Jumeirah, Kite Beach and Jumeirah Mosque

The palm jumeirah.

After the Marina, if you continue along the coast you find the beginning of The Palm, that famous palm-shaped island which is attached to Dubai mainland and has an Atlantis Hotel replica at its furthest edge.

You can get to the very edge by a monorail that runs 20 meters above the street and, for me, this is the best part of this tiny trip, as you can get a feeling of the island’s shape. Otherwise, when you are walking over it, it is like being in a normal street plus the island itself is boring.

You can also book a speed boat tour around The Palm . CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Where to stay in The Palm

Unless you want to stay in Atlantis, which is the famous hotel, I don’t see a reason why you should stay in The Palm. There is nothing to do and it is far away from everything. In three years, I came here just three times and only because I had some company events and meetings.

The best – Atlantis – What can I say which you don’t know yet? The Atlantis is one of the most famous landmarks in the city and a replica of the hotel you find in the Bahamas. It also has a waterpark and loads of bars and restaurants.

Jumeirah, Kite Beach and Jumeirah Mosque

Following the road along the coast, 18km after The Palm (I already told you that distances in Dubai are huge), you find Jumeirah, a set of streets filled with expensive villas where the local Emiratis live.

I like this area because it is one of the very few actual walkable parts of Dubai and also because you find the Jumeirah Mosque, a small but beautiful mosque which non-Muslim people can visit and the only cultural site to visit in the new part of the city.

There is no metro line to come here but the bus leaves from the main street in Marina.

Pro tip – Go to Bu Qtair Fish restaurant , a pretty budget seafood restaurant that serves fresh fish cooked in the traditional Gulf way.

Old Dubai is my favorite part of the UAE as it is the only place with a real soul. You can easily there by metro. The place is huge though and it has several metro stations.

Bastiqaya and Bur Dubai

Inhabited by Indians since many hundreds years ago, when the local Arabs were still Bedouins living in the desert, this used to be one of the greatest centers of the pearl trade and industry, one of the region’s main economic pillars.

Today, Bastiqaya and Bur Dubai are still mostly inhabited by Indians who are able to provide a deeper cultural feeling than soulless Dubai. Here you will find authentic (and cheap) Indian eateries filled with tens of Indians, real bazaars and traditional architecture.

Bastiqaya is the place to get lost among its narrow alleys while savoring some real authentic cuisine in the many restaurants where, according to Indians, they serve the best Indian food in the world, because it tastes like back home but it is much more hygienic.

This is, by far, my most favorite place and the reason why I finally liked Dubai.

If you are interested in Old Dubai, you can book a Street Food tour around the maze streets of Bastiqaya. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Don’t forget to check out the Dubai Museum, which is built inside a fortress from the 18th century, the Creek, the Textile Souk and a real Hindu Temple that holds real Hindu ceremonies.  

Pro tip – If you need to buy any electronic, Bur Dubai has the cheapest stores in town, much cheaper than anywhere in Europe.

Where to stay in Bur Dubai

In Bur Dubai you find some of the cheapest accommodation in town:

The most budget – Gold Plaza Guest House – This is not a nice hotel but it is really cheap. If you look for the cheapest option, this is your place.

The top-rated – Raffles Dubai – A top luxury hotel but much cheaper than other similar options from Marina or Downtown. If you look for affordable luxury, this is your place.

Cross the Dubai Creek in an Abra, from Bur Dubai to Deira

Pay 1 AED and enjoy a fabulous ride in the abra, the traditional water taxi to cross the atmospheric Dubai Creek from Bur Dubai to Deira on the opposite side. The quaint old wooden boat has a fishtail carved out of wood. 

Deira and the spice market souq

From saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, sumac and turmeric, Deira has the most traditional and photogenic souq, selling all sorts of spices, to the extent that any Indian can actually cook any curry they can come up with.

Deira and the gold souq

If you are into jewelry and gold, this souq sells some of the cheapest gold in the world and its biggest attraction is one ring which is claimed to be the biggest ring on Earth, which doesn’t make any sense because it is so big that your entire body would fit into it, so it is a completely useless ring.

Where to stay in Deira

Deira also offers plenty of budget accommodation and the biggest advantage is that it is very close to the airport.

Budget – Mark Inn Hotel Deira – Simple but clean, cheap and excellent Middle Eastern service. For people on a budget, this is a really good option.

Top-rated – Rove City Center – This hotel has the largest number of really positive reviews, located in the new and fancy part of Deira. Excellent service and super modern facilities.

Day 5 – Get off the beaten track

These are my top off the beaten track activities to do in Dubai .

You can’t do everything in one day but you can choose 1 or 2 or replace some of the previous fancy stuff with any of these places:

Camel Racing

Be part of the heart-pumping action that is so integral to the Emiratis’ life at the Al Marmoom Racetrack deep in the desert sands.

It’s an experience like no other; about 60 camels rush out from the gates, long legs flying in every which direction, running as fast as they can down the track while the jockeys steer and hold on for dear life.

They are followed by their owners in 4X4s, yelling at their camels and jockeys to do better. The excitement is contagious and soon you’ll be screaming at your favorite camel (yes, you actually read that), just as you would at a horse race.

The camel race is one of the most traditional activities in the Arab Gulf and will be one of the highlights of your Dubai itinerary.

The races take place on Friday and Saturday, from October to April.

For more information, check this website .

Horse racing in Meydan

The national sport in the UAE is horse racing and, in fact, they have some of the best and most expensive horses in the world.

If you want to experience something very traditional but modern at the same time, you can’t miss the weekly horse racing at Meydan racing stadium, which takes place every Thursday at 7pm, from November to March.

The races are impressive, so is the atmosphere, as all types of people attend: from wealthy locals to expats and laborers. The general entry ticket is free but, of course, you can also get a premium seat, which gives you access to the bar and restaurant.

For further information, visit the  official website .

Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding

The Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding is one governmental entity which tries to promote and create awareness of the Emirati culture, a culture which most foreigners have very little exposure to.

You can visit the center and book different tours but I recommend the lunch tour, which involves spending 1.5 hours with local Emiratis over a traditional Emirati lunch, who will explain you the customs in the UAE to you.

Since you will be having lunch with these men, the interaction will be higher and much closer than just visiting the center on a guided tour.

Heritage exclusive & eco-friendly Desert Safari

If you want a real desert, exclusive and off the beaten track adventure, go to the Heritage Safari, where you will drive, very slowly and quietly, over a track from where you can actually see oryx and real desert wildlife.

The cars are real, refurbished Land Rovers from the 50s and, unlike the regular desert safari, which is very close to the city and there is much noise from people and other cars, here you will find complete silence and the real feeling of what a desert is like.

You will have to book it in advance

If you want to go on a regular safari, check: 10 top desert safaris in Dubai

Day 6 – Day trip to Al Ain

After getting tired of Dubai, it is time to get outside of the city and, if you still want to experience some traditional culture, I strongly recommend you go to the Camel Market of Al Ain, which is a bustling, chaotic animal market, where you can bargain over the price of a camel and where you will find, literally, hundreds and hundreds of camels and a really authentic atmosphere.

Today, the sellers are not Emirati but Pakistani and Indian, even though most likely, the actual owners are locals.

However, the bazaar is still really genuine and, if you wander and wait for long enough, you will see wealthy Emiratis coming with their pickups to bargain for camels and other animals.

Every time I had friends visiting, I never hesitated to take them there, which means that I have been here so many times!

The market is, obviously, free and you will be one of the very few tourists. Al Ain is 1 hour and 30 minutes from Dubai and you can only come here by car.

Moreover, besides the market, Al Ain has also plenty of historical sites like Jahili Fort, a desert fort from the 19th century built in a beautiful oasis.

If you are self-driving, also go to Jebel Hafeet , a mountain whose road was voted among the greatest roads to drive in the world.

For more information, read: Things to do in Al Ain

You can book a full-day tour to Al Ain , which includes a visit to the camel market. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE

Where to stay in Al Ain

As you can see, there are quite a few things to do in Al Ain, so if you want to stay here overnight, I recommend these hotels. Good news is that all the hotels are much cheaper than in Dubai.

Budget – Ayla – This is the most decent, budget option in town, with plenty of good reviews actually.

Top-rated – Ayla Grand Hotel – One of the busiest and most popular options in town, this 5-star hotel is very close to the city center and it is a luxury option with unbeatable prices.

Go to Sheikh Zayed Mosque (a must) 

This is one of the largest mosques, with the largest carpet and the largest chandelier in the world.

The mosque can accommodate an astonishing 40,000 worshippers. It has 82 domes plus 1,000 marble columns and 24-carat gold gilded chandeliers everywhere.

One of the world’s biggest-ever chandeliers dominates the main prayer hall; it is 10 meters in diameter and 15 meters in height and weighs twelve tons.

If that weren’t enough, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque has the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, made by Iranian carpet weavers.

The mosque is surrounded by reflective pools that amplify its beauty. What glitters gold and white in the sun is transformed at night by a unique lightning system which reflects the phases of the moon. The best time to see the mosque is during sunset, at 5:30 P.M. The mosque has a ‘Sunset Hour’ sightseeing set up at that time, to enable visitors to see the best of the mosque. 

For more information, read this Abu Dhabi City guide

Pro Tip –  Modest clothing is expected when you enter the mosque, including an abaya for women (provided at the entrance) and covered head, shoulders, and knees for the men. The mosque is open from 9 A.M. to 10 P.M. every day and is open daily to visitors except on Friday morning.

How to get there – Well, there is no direct public transportation. You would first need to to take a bus from the outskirts of Dubai to the center of Abu Dhabi and then look for a taxi, which I don’t recommend.

Going directly by taxi from would cost, roughly, around 300AED (one way), so the best way is to rent a car or, even cheaper, to go on a tour.

If you aren’t self-driving, I recommend you book the tour with GetYourGuide , as they have pretty good deals for visiting the mosque which you can combine with visiting other places within Abu Dhabi.

Bonus! Extending your UAE itinerary

Liwa oasis (2 additional days, minimum).

Liwa Oasis is my most favorite place in the whole United Arab Emirates and, actually, one of my top places to visit in the Middle East .

Unfortunately, due to its remoteness and distance, you need a couple of days to enjoy Liwa.

Liwa Oasis is located in the southern-eastern part of the country, 250km from Abu Dhabi and 350km from Dubai, very close to the Saudi Arabian border.

The oasis is situated on the north-eastern edge of the  Empty Quarter (Rub-al-Jali) , a vast desert spread across the UAE, Saudi Arabia , Oman , and Yemen , which is the largest continuous sea of dunes in the world. It extends over an area of 650,000km² and measures 1,000km in length by 500km in width.

For more information, read my guide to the Liwa Oasis

Where to stay in Liwa

Budget –  Liwa Hotel –  The hotel is all right, nothing fancy but the location is quite unbeatable, right in the middle of the sea dunes, from where you get stunning views of the Empty Quarter.

Top-rated –  Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort –  This resort is the most awesome desert hotel in the country. With some of the most stunning views ever, this 5-star hotel is real Emirati luxury combined with tradition. Even if you are not staying here, it is worth checking out.

More information for visiting Dubai

📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.

Access blocked sites – Remember that, if you want to use Skype, Whatsapp Call or Tinder you will need a VPN. For that, I recommend ExpressVPN , the best and fastest VPN in the market.

All guides and articles for traveling in UAE destination

• North Korean Restaurant in Dubai
• Authentic Restaurants in Dubai
• Dubai Travel Budget Guide
• Dubai Off-the-beaten Track
• Where to Stay in Dubai
• VPN for Dubai
• Best Desert Safaris in Dubai
• Best Day Tours & Excursions in Dubai
• Travel Guide to Liwa Oasis

Check more city guides

• Tunis Travel Guide
• Asmara Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Riyadh
• Muscat Travel Guide
• Beirut Travel Guide
• Erbil Travel Guide
• Tehran Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Astana
• Tashkent Travel Guide
• Baku Travel Guide
• Tbilisi Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Minsk
• Kiev Travel Guide
• Travel Guide to Nouakchott
• A City Guide to Mosul

13 comments

This looks very nice itinerary of Dubai, as we all know that Dubai is nowadays top most tourist destination in the whole world and I think this must be the right way of exploring it. Thanks for sharing this lovely post.

My Bestie Anna is coming next week here. Will ask her to just glide through your informative read. Also I do wish to share few important tips for all others here ** Eventhough smart cards are easily accessible here good to carry a small amount of liquid cash **Good to carry a small kit with emergent medicines like Neosporin, etc,

Hi Nadiya, I removed your link because self-promotion or commercial links are not allowed

Dubai seems fantastic, Im going there soon and Im so exited.

An amazing blog indeed, This time I will visit UAE with my friends. I am hopeful that this information will be useful for all of us. Thanks to the author for sharing this.

glad you found it useful! cheers!

Dubai is a must visit destination for shopping enthusiasts and adventure lovers. I found this itinerary is very useful anybody can use it as a reference to plan Dubai holiday.

I love Jumeirah Beach. The glorious Jumeirah Beach lies along Dubai’s coast and gives you the opportunity to swim in the arabic gulf. Visitors to Jumeirah’s hotels can enjoy private beaches offering water sports. If you’re not a hotel guest, you can only relax at Jumeirah Beach Park, the public portion of the beach.

Nice Pics & Information…Thanks for sharing Keep Going! Am also interested visiting Dubai once in my life.

That’s an honest post!! I have never bored in Dubai and it’s luxury life.

What if I have the opportunity to visit in June or July? Is it worth it for a few days? I live in Singapore & I’m from Texas, so I’m accustomed to humidity & heat!

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Dubai Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

I found myself loving my first visit here so much that I extended my stay.

Dubai is a city trapped between worlds. It’s a place with a conservative culture and old-world customs while at the same time a Middle-Eastern Vegas where anything goes (so long as it’s behind closed doors). There’s a lot of partying that happens here.

But, beyond that, I was surprised at how much there was to do in this city. This city is more than just a flashy place to spend money. There’s a lot of cultural activities, museums, attractions, tours, and things to do here.

Dubai is a fascinating, multicultural city that deserves a lot more than a stopover. This travel guide to Dubai will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Dubai

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. Visit the Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world, which opened in 2010, boasts a whopping 163 floors. You can go up to the 125th floor for 169 AED for epic views of the city. And for 399 AED you can climb even higher to floor 148 and visit the exclusive lounge. From there, you get panoramic views of the city and desert. Towering 555 meters (1,820 feet), the iconic tower contains a hotel, private residences, corporate offices, and a bar/lounge. At night, the building is illuminated by a spectacular light show of fish, palm trees, and other scenes while the fountain below dances to music. Get your tickets in advance here .

2. Take a desert safari

If you want to get a taste of the desert, head out on a day-long safari . You’ll be able to explore the desert, watch for birds and other wildlife, eat some traditional food, and take in the sweeping vistas. Tour offerings include desert jeep tours, camel riding tours, and horseback riding excursions. A day-long excursion starts at around 439 AED per person.

3. Visit Global Village

This is a massive entertainment extravaganza, with shopping, dining, and live performances all coming together to create an incredible cultural experience. It’s like Epcot Center at Disney World, except it showcases the different cultures of the Middle East. Enjoy ice-skating at Snowfest Ice Rink, visiting Ripley’s Believe It or Not, or taking a thrilling ride at Carnaval amusement park. Admission is only 18 AED.

4. Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden

This quirky and colorful garden opened in 2013 and is spread over 72,000 square meters (775,000 square feet), making it the world’s largest natural flower garden. It’s home to over 150 million flowers and all kinds of flower and plant sculptures. In addition to the natural beauty, you can experience various performances that change each week, and a daily flower parade with live music and choreographed dancers in full flower garb. If you get hungry during your visit there are more than 30 food and beverage options including cafes, candy shops, and healthy juice bars. Admission is 75 AED.

5. Have fun at Kite Beach

If you’re into kitesurfing or water sports, this is a cool place to catch some waves. The artificial beach is one of the most popular in Dubai and features lots of sugary white sand, kids’ activities, food and beverage vendors, fitness areas, and even a library. The winds pick up in the afternoon, making it a good time to hit the water or just sit back and watch others do it. If watersports aren’t your thing, come here to catch some rays and relax as it’s free and open to the public.

Other Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. wander the marina.

The marina area is surrounded by tall buildings and is composed of a beautiful scenic boardwalk. Here you’ll find lots of fancy boats, beautiful condos, and bars and restaurants overlooking the harbor. Be sure to check out Pier 7, which is seven floors of restaurants and bars on the water. Personally, I liked Asia Asia, with its gaudy Asian theme.

2. Hit the mall

Malls in Dubai are not like malls anywhere else in the world. There are over 65 malls in the city with more on the way. People love going to malls here! Between the Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, you’ll find a ton of amazing things to see and do. There’s luxury shopping, nightly fountain shows, an aquarium inside the Dubai Mall (which has a 270-degree underwater tunnel you can walk through), and even indoor skiing at the Mall of the Emirates (the Mall of the Emirates also has over 650 stores and 100 restaurants). You can also visit the world’s largest themed mall, the Ibn Battuta Mall. It has a Moroccan theme and is named after the eponymous explorer (it has over 270 stores and 50 restaurants too). Be sure to dress appropriately and avoid tank tops, shorts, or mini-skirts.

3. Visit the Grand Mosque

Located in nearby Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is definitely worth a half-day trip. Built between 1996-2007, the mosque and its surrounding gardens span over 30 acres. It’s almost all white too, giving it a very majestic look. It’s a 90-minute drive from Dubai (about 290 AED each way in a taxi or 25 AED on the bus). You’ll want to make sure you wear appropriate clothing since it is a place of worship (they have cover-up items available for anyone without suitable attire). During Eid, upwards of 41,000 people visit the mosque each day. Admission is free.

4. Explore Old Dubai

This is Dubai as it used to be. Markets (like the famous gold market) pepper the area, small shops line the streets, and you can get lost in a dizzying maze of alleyways. Take a boat across Dubai Creek to Deira (you can ride an abra, a traditional wooden boat) and wander aimlessly around the streets, eat at some of the traditional restaurants, explore the art district, and see Dubai as it is away from the glitz of the malls and high-rises. Don’t miss the Dubai Frame (a landmark offering the best views of the city), the gold market (which has upwards of 10 tons of gold at any time), and the spice souk (a large spice market you can browse).

5. Tour the Jumeirah Mosque

Opened in 1979, this beautiful mosque is one of two in the city you can actually visit. Built in the Fatimid style, it consists of one large room and there is a guided tour every day at 10am and 2pm (except Fridays). It’s 35 AED and comes with a great breakfast spread. If you don’t know much about Islam or the role it plays in the UAE, it’s a pretty interesting and educational tour.

6. Go deep-sea fishing

It’s quite easy to book a spot on a boat and head out to sea if you want to try your hand at deep-sea fishing. Tour operators cater to all ages and levels of experience, and most packages even include lunch. Prices vary depending on what sort of vessel you book and how long you go but expect to pay 1,500 AED for a 4-6-hour trip.

7. Relax at Jumeirah Beach

This white-sand beach is a fantastic place to sunbathe and stroll along the boardwalk. Located along the coast just south of the city’s historic district, there are lots of shops to visit, and there is even an outdoor movie theater. Not only is this a great place to visit, but it’s a great area to stay because you’re surrounded by so many things to do. There are playgrounds here for kids as well as areas to BBQ. It’s perfect for picnics but gets super busy on the weekend so try to enjoy it during the week to beat the crowd.

8. Wander the Palm Islands

On this famous man-made palm tree-shaped island , you’ll find a large shopping walkway, the Atlantis resort, the Aquaventure waterpark, and a host of fancy restaurants, bars, and clubs. It’s beautiful to walk around and explore during the day (at night, it’s pretty boring!).

9. Visit the Souk Madinat Jumeirah

This souk (market) is in a modern building designed to look like something out of Aladdin but it’s actually home to some incredible restaurants. There’s a beautiful inner courtyard pond in this complex, too. Come here if you want to splurge if you’re a foodie! Don’t miss Al Makan for local dishes, Anar for Persian cuisine, and The Noodle House for tasty Asian eats.

10. Binge at brunch

Brunch is a tradition among locals and expats. Every Friday, everyone flocks to a midday buffet of unlimited drinks and food. As the day goes on, it often turns into debauchery that would make Nero proud. However, brunch is not a cheap affair, costing as much as 700 AED. Ask your hotel/hostel staff where the cheapest brunches are. You can usually find some for under 200 AED.

Dubai Travel Costs

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at 285 AED in peak season. In the off-season, budget rooms cost around 90 AED. Expect basic amenities like a TV, tea/coffee maker, and AC.

There are lots of Airbnb options in Dubai. A private room starts around 100 AED per night though you should expect to pay double (or even triple or quadruple) if you don’t book early. Enrire homes/apartments start around 250 AED per night, however, they average triple that price so book early.

Food – Emirati cuisine takes influences from its Middle Eastern neighbors. More recently, as an international hub, you can find all kinds of internal flavors here as well. Popular dishes in Dubai include hummus, shawarma, shish tawook (grilled kebabs), and knafeh (a sweet cheese pastry topped with rose syrup and pistachios). Dates and fish are common staples, with camel milk being a more traditional addition to the diet. Popular spices include saffron, cinnamon, and turmeric.

In Dubai, a meal out costs around 65 AED while dinner for two with drinks usually averages 190-300 AED. For fast food like McDonald’s, expect to pay around 30 AED for a combo meal.

A large pizza costs around 45 AED while Chinese food is around 50 AED. A beer is about 45 AED while a latte or cappuccino is 19 AED. Bottled water is around 2 AED.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay around 500 AED per week for groceries including pasta, vegetables, meat or fish, and other basic staples.

Backpacking Dubai Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 260 AED per day you can stay in a hostel, cook all your meals, take public transportation to get around, skip drinking, and do mostly free activities like enjoying the beach and visiting the malls and mosques. If you plan on drinking, add 40-80 AED extra per day.

On a mid-range budget of 870 AED per day, you can stay in a cheap hotel or Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a couple drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities, such as a desert safari.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,425 AED, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink as much as you’d like, go out for a brunch, take paid tours, visit the Burj Khalifa, and rent a car for some day trips. The sky is the limit here!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AED.

Dubai Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Dubai is an expensive city. If you’re hanging out in the malls and restaurants that cater to expats, you’re going to spend a lot of money. That said, there are a few things you can do to cut costs so you don’t blow your budget. Here are some quick tips to help you save money in Dubai:

• Use Groupon – Groupon is huge in Dubai and you can find tons of discounts, 2-for-1 specials, and deals on the website. If there is something you want to do, check there first as there is a high chance you’ll find a discount.
• Get The Entertainer – The Entertainer is a magazine and app that offers discounts and specials on restaurants, hotels, and activities. Pick up a copy when you arrive in Dubai. It’s not cheap but sometimes you can find the app 50% off or get a free trial. There are monthly subscriptions starting at 35 AED per month and a “lite” version that is free. If you plan to see and do a lot, it’s worth the price.
• Find happy hours – Dubai is full of happy hours. Plan your drinking accordingly to avoid the city’s high-priced booze.
• Skip the booze – Outside the happy hours and all-you-can-eat brunches, drinking is expensive so I would go easy on the drinking during your visit — or skip it altogether if you’re on a budget.
• Eat in Old Dubai – Step away from the hotels, malls, and fancy souks meant to make you think you are in Aladdin and head into Old Dubai for cheap eats.
• Pick accommodation near the metro – Make sure your accommodation is near a metro stop. You don’t want to be walking around unnecessarily when it’s scorching hot and public transportation is much cheaper than taxis.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in Dubai so bring a reusable water bottle to reduce your single-use plastic usage. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Dubai

Dubai doesn’t have a lot of hostels so you’ll want to book in advance if you plan to stay in a hostel. Here are my suggested places to stay in Dubai:

• Green Sky Apartments
• Bombay Backpackers DXB
• Bohemian Backpackers

How to Get Around Dubai

Public transportation – Dubai’s metro consists of nearly 50 stations. You can get to wherever you need to go, or close to it, with public transportation. Hours of operation depend on the day but both lines start operating from around 5:30am until about 1am. On Fridays, however, the trains don’t start running until 10am.

You’ll need a Nol Card to get around and you can buy the card at any of the ticket offices at the metro stations for 25 AED.

Fares depend on which of the zones you are traveling to. A standard ticket for one zone is 4 AED, for two zones it’s 6 AED, and if you are traveling through 3 or more zones it’s 8.50 AED.

If you can’t get to where you’re going by subway, the bus will get you there. Like the metro, the bus has different zones, and the Nol card is used as payment.

Ferry – The ferry in Dubai runs daily from three different terminals in the marina. Evening trips on the ferry are much busier, so be sure to get to the terminal 30 minutes early. Tickets range from 15-50 AED for silver class (seats in the main section of the boat) and 25-75 AED for gold class (more comfortable seats at the front of the boat).

Taxi – Taxis start at 12 AED and go up by around 2.50 AED per kilometer. Skip them if you can. They add up quickly!

Ridesharing – Uber and Careem are the two main ridesharing apps in Dubai. They aren’t usually cheaper than a standard taxi but they tend to be a lot more convenient.

Bicycle – Bikes can be rented from Nextbike for around 20 AED per hour or 80 AED per day.

Car rental – If you’re leaving the city, cars can be rented for around 190 AED per day. I would only rent one if you’re leaving the city. Otherwise, just use public transportation to get around. It will be much faster!

When to Go to Dubai

The most popular time to visit Dubai is between November-April. The weather is cooler and perfect for desert safaris, with daily highs averaging around 27°C (80°F). Flights and accommodation will be more expensive during this time though so plan accordingly.

May-August is the low season as Dubai just gets too warm. Daily highs average around 41°C (106°F) and make exploring the city unbearable. I visited in August and it was brutal. Skip the summer if you can!

The shoulder season between September and October is when the sea becomes perfect for swimming and water sports. It’s much less busy during this time so you’ll find fewer crowds and cheaper prices too.

How to Stay Safe in Dubai

Dubai is a very safe city. Violent crime is incredibly rare here. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, though they’re quite rare too. As long as you keep your valuables secure while you’re out and about you likely won’t have any issues.

Be aware that many activities that are legal in other countries are not legal in Dubai, such as displays of public affection between unmarried or LGBTQ partners, drunken behavior, dressing immodestly, swearing, photographing people without their permission, and criticizing UAE’s government.

You’ll need to dress and act conservatively here. All the wild and crazy stuff in the city happens behind closed doors. It’s a see no evil kind of thing. Don’t push the limit in public or you’re likely to get into serious trouble. Be extra cautious about being wild or “immodest” here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.) when you’re here. For an extra layer of safety, use the female-only cars on the metro. For more information, check out one of the many solo female travl blogs on the city to help you out.

Scams here are rare. If you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read my post on common travel scams to avoid .

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for the police, 998 for an ambulance, and 997 for the fire department.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Dubai Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Dubai Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Dubai and continue planning your trip:

How to Save Money in Dubai (and 9 cool things to do there!)

Dubai: The Las Vegas of the Middle East?

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Enter your email and get planning cheatsheets including a step by step checklist, packing list, tips cheat sheet, and more so you can plan like a pro!

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Dubai Travel Guide

It’s hard to believe when confronting the sheer scale of Dubai, but most of the city was built in just the last 50 years. It makes the world’s biggest shopping mall, tallest skyscraper, and a host of ultra-luxurious hotels all the more bewildering. Still, amid all the glamor and superlatives, there are vestiges of a pre-skyscraper Dubai, in its winding souks and the vast empty desert that surrounds the city. Here’s how to navigate both sides of this always-growing metropolis.

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Nomadic Notes

Travel blog and weekly travel newsletter

Dubai Travel Notes

October 11, 2022 By James Clark

Travel Notes > United Arab Emirates > Dubai Travel Notes

Nomadic Notes Blog Posts

Notes on Dubai – old and new – Notes from my trip to Dubai in October 2007.

A day in Dubai – 2018 edition .

Notes on Dubai – Expo 2020, South Asia food paradise, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah and more .

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Accommodation

Dubai hotels – Search for discount hotels in Dubai with lowest rates guaranteed.

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Travel Guides

Dubai Tourism – Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing.

Dubai.com – City info, entertainment, news, maps, and travel booking services.

Dubai Information Site – First-hand, practical perspective on Dubai. Aimed at tourists and people who have recently moved to Dubai.

Time Out Dubai – Dubai lifestyle magazine featuring restaurants, nightlife, films, things to do and places to see.

Dubai Travel Agents

Rayna Tours and Travels is a Dubai-based destination management service offering all-inclusive holidays, tours, safaris, and cruises that go beyond the ordinary. Its extensive portfolio offers international visa services, high-end logistic solutions, and sightseeing tours introducing visitors to the city’s most modern and cultural landmarks. They are also specialists in Dubai desert safari and dhow cruise packages, and arranging tours to attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, theme parks, water parks, and museums (including the Museum of the Future).

Buy Tickets

– Visit the world’s tallest skyscraper, the Burj Khalifa, to enjoy breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline. With Burj Khalifa tickets , get access to At The Top (Levels 124 & 125) and At The Top SKY (Level 148), and benefit from super saver combo offers.

– Enjoy a dolphin & seal show, swim with the creatures, and take endless photographs with your Dubai Dolphinarium tickets .

– Head to the top of the Dubai Frame, 150 meters in the sky, to discover the city’s past, present, and future. Choose from a selection of the Dubai Frame tickets to enjoy skip-the-line access and combo tours to other popular attractions in the city.

– Head to The View at the Palm observatory at the top of the Palm Tower for an unparalleled sight of Dubai’s towering skyline. Book The View at the Palm tickets to enjoy fast-track entry into the Palm Tower or choose combo tickets that offer access to top attractions such as the Dubai Frame and Burj Khalifa.

Dubai Travel Blog – Places, food, attractions, adventures, culture in Dubai.

Gubbi of Arabia – American girl in Dubai blogging about Dubai, travel, and expat life.

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Guide Books

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About James Clark

James Clark is the founder of Nomadic Notes. He has been a digital nomad since 2003, and Nomadic Notes features trip reports, train travel articles , and where to stay guides . He writes about transport and urban development at Future Southeast Asia . Subscribe to the weekly travel newsletter .

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This Glamorous Middle Eastern City Has Luxury Hotels, Thrilling Desert Adventures, and Michelin-starred Dining

Here's how to plan the perfect visit to Dubai.

• Best Hotels & Resorts

Best Things to Do

Best shopping, best restaurants, best time to visit, how to get there, neighborhoods to visit, how to get around.

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Dubai is full of contrasts. There's the glittering skyline of skyscrapers so tall they defy imagination. There is the modern collection of stores and eateries, offering every option a traveler could want. And then there are the luxurious hotels, ready to welcome even the most discerning traveler in style and excess. Then there's the desert with its rolling hills of sand stamped with the footprints of Arabian oryx and gazelles; the souks with their labyrinth of stalls, bins overflowing with a rainbow of spices; and the traditional abra boats ferrying riders across the Dubai Creek.

“Dubai is the ideal destination for tourists, and there are a number of reasons why,” Farida Ahmed, a guide and owner of Frying Pan Adventures , told Travel + Leisure . “It is safe, whether you are traveling solo or as a family. That, for me, is one of the most pivotal points on which tourism rests."

The city, one of the seven emirates in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has sprouted up from its desert port beginnings to become a sprawling metropolis full of vibrant neighborhoods, record-setting buildings, and over-the-top shopping centers all in the last several decades. "There is something for everyone and everyone's pocket — if you’re looking for budget travel you can absolutely do it in Dubai," said Ahmed.

Today, Dubai can be fast and slow at the same time — a place to grab an avocado toast and relax on the beach, a place to appreciate a desert conservation reserve, and a place to shop 'til you drop, all in the same day. It's these contrasts that make Dubai one of the most dynamic and interesting cities in the world.

Best Hotels & Resorts

Armani hotel dubai.

This luxurious hotel is located in one of the most famous buildings in Dubai and the world: the Burj Khalifa. Armani Hotel Dubai takes up the first eight floors as well as the 38th and 39th floors of the world's tallest tower, offering incredible views of the city and the Arabian Gulf below. Rooms are designed by the hotel's namesake, Giorgio Armani, and feature muted colors that will relax any guest after a long day of shopping at nearby The Dubai Mall.

Burj Al Arab

If the Burj Khalifa is the most recognizable building in Dubai, the Burj Al Arab is a close second. Inside this iconic sail-shaped building floating in the middle of The Gulf is one of the most stunning hotels in the city. Each colorful room comes with Hermes amenities and butler service as well as access to the hotel's private beach.

Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa

Set against rolling sand dunes and roaming oryx, Al Maha, a Luxury Collection Desert Resort and Spa offers guests an escape from the hustle and bustle of the city with 42 individual suites all with their own private pools overlooking unobstructed views of the pristine desert. During your stay, book a dune drive to get your heart pumping or go on a guided nature walk in the desert. In the morning, sit down to breakfast on the veranda and keep your eyes peeled for a few gazelles popping by to say hello over coffee.

Queen Elizabeth 2

This unique property was once a working cruise ship that has been converted into a hotel , permanently docked in Dubai. The 13-deck ship features 447 refurbished hotel rooms and suites — including the Royal Suite with a large wood-lined private deck — restaurants, a spa, and a theater. History buffs can tour the ship's bridge and see what the cabins looked like in the 1960s before settling in for a leisurely afternoon tea complete with finger sandwiches, traditional cakes, and warm scones with clotted cream.

XVA Art Hotel

XVA Art Hotel is a boutique hotel that feels like stepping back in time with its romantic shaded courtyards, dark wood, and rich textiles. The hotel, which was built in what used to be a home in the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, has 15 individually designed rooms all located around three courtyards. And don't miss a chance to walk through the hotel's art gallery, which features contemporary art from both established and emerging artists.

Frying Pan Adventures

One of the best ways to experience a place is through its food and these food tours offer to paint visitors a culinary map of Dubai, which Ahmed said has “now established itself as one of the culinary meccas of the world.” Try sweet milky tea in the back alleys of a souk, meat and rice pilaf , stuffed falafels, or learn about the custom of making Arabic coffee while also learning about the history of the city with one of the many female guides. 

Global Village

Dubai's Global Village is unlike anything else, showcasing more than 70 cultures at different country pavilions where visitors can shop, eat, and more. Bring a camera and capture a cool photo "for the 'gram" at one of the "selfie spots" or catch one of the many shows.

Skiing in the desert is possible at Ski Dubai where an indoor slope in the Mall of the Emirates allows ski and snowboard enthusiasts to clip or strap in and hone their skills. Playing in the snow more your thing? Try the twin-track bobsled experience or take some time to hang out with the resident gentoo and king penguins.

Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest tower in the world and the view from the top is rightfully spectacular. Take in Dubai's many neighborhoods with this bird's eye view from the 125th floor or book a spot on the world's highest observation deck with an outdoor terrace on the 148th floor. The Burj Khalifa VIP experience includes access to the world’s highest lounge on the 154th floor. 

Ahmed recommended checking the weather forecast before you book a trip up the Burj Khalifa, noting that “if it's not a clear day you are not going to be seeing anything but haze.” For your best chance of a clear view, she noted that “the sky tends to be clearer before sunset.”

Royal Shaheen

Learn all about falconry from a team of professional falconers on a tour with Royal Shaheen — and get the chance to handle some of the magnificent animals yourself. These tours are interactive and family-friendly, and allow guests to learn both traditional and modern falconry training techniques.

The Dubai Mall holds the Guinness World Record for the largest shopping center in the world with more than 1,200 retail outlets, including two major department stores: Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale's. It also has more than 200 food and beverage outlets. Basically, it's so big you could easily get lost for days. The mall even developed its own app with turn-by-turn navigation to help shoppers reach (and return from) their destination. Beyond shopping, the mall has an aquarium and an Olympic-sized ice rink. The vibe and decor change depending on which part of the mall you're in, so plan to spend some time exploring. An added bonus: it's air-conditioned.

Mall of the Emirates

The Mall of the Emirates is slightly smaller than the Dubai Mall, but still features more than 630 brands and more than 100 places to grab a bite. Beyond the stores themselves, visitors will find the city's indoor ski slope and a bowling alley. (If your phone dies while you're shopping, you can borrow a portable charger for free.)

The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence

This shopping destination stretches along more than one mile of beachfront and features both international designers and fun pop-up markets. Check out Sauce for beachy and boho-inspired dresses and cool rattan bags before grabbing a bite at one of the restaurants overlooking the gulf.

Textile and Gold Souks

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Dubai may be known for its modern skyscrapers, but there's another side to the city where traditional souks sell everything from souvenirs to beautiful scarves. Choose from towering racks of fabric at the Textile Souk in the historic Bur Dubai neighborhood or hop across the Dubai Creek to browse endless rows of jewelry stores selling gold bangles and sparkling gems in the Gold Souk . And remember: haggling is all part of the fun.

Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant

Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant is part museum and part eatery. The restaurant, which boasts a covered dining courtyard with a tree, has live music, and fresh-made bread, and the staff is dressed in traditional robes. “Do not leave the city without trying Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant," said Ahmed. "It is one of the few restaurants in Old Dubai that's been recognized. The food is great and I love the decor.” The restaurant has earned the Michelin's Bib Gourmand designation.

Al Farooj Al Shami Restaurant

The Syrian fare served at Al Farooj Al Shami is second to none. Grilled meats, fresh-made sauces, and a mouth-watering list of hot appetizers make this local spot one of Ahmed’s must-visits.

Comptoir 102

You'd be forgiven for thinking you were in California or Tulum when you settled into the shaded courtyard of Comptoir 102 . Order an avocado crostini, halloumi salad, or gluten-free buckwheat pancakes, and recharge with a chai latte made with homemade almond milk. After you're done eating at this organic cafe, pop over to the attached concept store where you'll find boho dresses, unique glassware, jewelry, and more.

Al Hadheerah at Bab Al Shams

Dinner at Al Hadheerah is more than just a meal, it's an experience. Ten live cooking stations delight guests as they feast under the stars in the middle of the desert, offering classic dishes like shawarma and lamb ouzi cooked underground as well as salads like hummus and tabbouleh. And don't forget dessert where you can sample favorites like kunafa and baklava. Reservations are recommended.

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter when the year-round hot weather starts to cool. In general, temperatures start to dip in October and it remains only moderately hot through May. While the hot season is from June to September, it's worth noting that air conditioning is plentiful across Dubai.

“The really amazing months for me are November to February,” said Ahmed, who noted that when winter arrives in Dubai, “we literally crawl out of our hibernation phase and it's all about spending time at the beach and desert BBQs.”

Winter is also when the Dubai Shopping Festival takes place. It's a December and January event that is known for its great deals, live entertainment, and raffles.

nantonov/Getty Images

The best way to get into Dubai is by plane. Thousands of flights arrive at Dubai International Airport (DXB) each week, making it one of the busiest airports in the world. It is located in the northern part of the city, making it the best option for travelers who will be staying and playing on the northern side of Dubai.

The newer Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), also known as Dubai World Central, started welcoming travelers in 2013 and is still under construction. The airport provides access to the growing southern end of the city. When it is completed, it will be the world’s largest airport.

Lara Antal/Travel + Leisure

This area is a collection of neighborhoods around Dubai Creek (Khor Dubai) , including Deira and the Al Fahidi historical neighborhood . A stroll through this area — lined with low-profile gypsum, sand, and coral buildings — will give visitors a small taste of what Dubai was like before the modern construction boom. Spend some time exploring the area's souks or hop on an abra for a boat ride along the creek, which used to be the entry to the pearl diving port.

Angelo Cavalli/Getty Images

Jumeirah Beach Residences and Dubai Marina

These neighborhoods, which sit next to each other, form one of the best places to go for a waterfront stroll. Grab a bite to eat with a view of the gulf in Jumeirah Beach Residences before getting ice cream and walking over to the marina to watch the sunset on the water, surrounded by towering modern skyscrapers.

Downtown Dubai

This is one of the most iconic neighborhoods in the city, home to the Dubai Mall, the Burj Khalifa, and the Dubai Fountain , which puts on a fantastic show every 30 minutes each night. Shop 'til you drop, head up to the top of the tallest tower in the world, or grab a seat at one of the many restaurants surrounding the fountain for dinner and a show.

Palm Jumeirah

This palm-shaped island is man-made and dotted with luxury hotels and beach clubs. Kids will love the over-the-top waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm , while adults will enjoy whiling away the day at one of the many pool decks. For a bird's eye view of the island itself, try skydiving — just remember to stop screaming long enough to take it all in.

kolderal/Getty Images

Taxis are the default way to get around Dubai, but if you want to really explore the city and the neighboring emirates, Ahmed recommended renting a car. “It will make your life easier plus it will open up the possibility for you to explore the other emirates in the UAE. If time is of the essence, get yourself a car,” she said.

She noted that the metro is great if you’re staying in and traveling around Old Dubai, but if you want to explore New Dubai or go further afield, taxi hires and car rentals are the easiest way to get around.

Taxis: Dubai has an extensive network of taxis that bring travelers throughout the city. It's easy to hail a taxi at popular attractions like the malls and the beach. For women who feel more comfortable with a female driver, the city even has " Ladies and Families " taxis, which are always driven by women. Those looking to schedule a taxi ride can use apps like Uber and Careem, which operate throughout the city.

Trains: The Dubai Metro is cooler than your average subway, featuring automated and sleek cars, WiFi, and even separate cars that women and children can use. (The Red Line even holds the Guinness World Record for the longest driverless metro line at more than 32 miles long.) There are nearly 30 metro stations and a good amount of the track is outdoors, passing by iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and making it a great way to see the city and get from Point A to B. Passengers can purchase single, return, or day-pass tickets — or get a cashless smart card called Nol.

Buses: Dubai has more than 1,500 buses that cover a hefty majority of the city's urban areas.

Abra : Travelers can ride these traditional wooden boats between the Bur Dubai area and the Deira area where Dubai's Gold Souk, Textile Souk, and Spice Souk are located.

Related Articles

• How to Spend 4 Days in Dubai: The Perfect Dubai Itinerary

If you’re seeking a city that gives you culture, adrenaline, delectable food, and warm-spirited locals, then look no further than Dubai. On the surface, this gleaming city is known for its towering architectural masterpieces, sprawling malls, and luxury hotels.

But if you spend 4 days in Dubai then you’ll soon realize how much more the Middle Eastern mega-city has to offer.

Dubai must be one of the few places in the world where you can sunbathe on pristine beaches, surf down giant sand dunes, and wander around historic alleyways all within the same day.

Although this ginormous city in the United Arab Emirates gives you heaps to see, the great news is that you can enjoy the best of Dubai in 4 days.

This brings you to my Dubai travel guide! I’ve curated the perfect Dubai itinerary that will help you squeeze in all the top tourist attractions, as well as a few lesser-known gems that will make your trip unique.

Disclosure: *This post contains a few affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through my link.*

No time to read now? Pin it for later!

Table of Contents

Useful Info for Visiting Dubai

How to get to dubai.

Before we get started with all the fabulous things to do in Dubai in 4 days, let’s run over the essentials in order to make planning your trip as seamless as possible.

When it comes to getting to Dubai, chances are that you will fly to the city. However, if you are already based in the Middle East, you also have the option to drive to Dubai from a neighboring country.

Dubai is mainly served by the Dubai International Airport (DXB) but you can also catch flights to Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). DXB is located close to the Deira district and a taxi to your downtown hotel will take around 20 minutes, while DWC is located 37 km (23 miles) southwest of Dubai.

DXB is a bustling transport hub with connections to most major cities around the world. Flights from Europe and the US are generally very affordable if you shop around. Airlines such as Emirates and Etihad often run deals and promotions so sign up for their newsletters and keep an eye on socials for discounts.

A quick tip – you might want to check out flight options to nearby Abu Dhabi. Depending on where you are flying from, it might be cheaper to disembark in the neighboring city and transfer to Dubai either via a car rental or by bus.

A bus to Dubai from Abu Dhabi should cost around AED 25 ($6.80 US) whilst a taxi will cost approximately AED 250-300 ($68-81 US). The drive takes about 90 minutes. If your schedule permits, spending one day in Abu Dhabi is a nice addition to tapping onto either end of your Dubai itinerary.

Read Next: Abu Dhabi vs Dubai: Which One to Visit and Why

Best time to visit Dubai

Because of Dubai’s spot slap-bang in the middle of the Arabain desert, the weather can get very intense in the city. It’s definitely one of those places where you need to plan your trip around the climate.

The best time to visit Dubai is during its ‘winter’ months – from November to March. Daytime temperatures linger around a comfortable 25°C (77°F) whilst evenings drop a few degrees cooler.

But bear in mind that this is the peak tourist season in the UAE and so attractions and beaches will be more crowded and hotels a lot pricier.

From April onwards the temperatures start to ramp up and it can become oppressively hot. By June/July, the city is usually in the late 30°Cs (95°F +).

If you’re planning to spend most of your Dubai itinerary indoors anyway, there will be air-conditioning to keep you cool. However the beaches, gardens, and desert will be harder to deal with.

The great thing about visiting Dubai during summer is that hotel prices plummet.

How to get around in Dubai

As a major metropolis, Dubai gives you the option to get around via either public transport or private car. Whilst it’s not a walkable city, there are some areas that are very pedestrian-friendly as you’ll see in my itinerary.

If you want to see the best of Dubai in 4 days without hiring a car, I would recommend doing a mix of public transport and taxis to save valuable sightseeing time.

As Dubai is a city that was designed for cars, the most comfortable way to get around Dubai is via a rental car.

There are loads of highways connecting the city. Once you’ve coughed up the necessary hire and insurance costs, petrol prices are very low in the UAE.

As most Emiratis drive, parking is available in abundance in Dubai and often it’s free – at least for a couple of hours.

For a guideline, an economy rental car will cost around AED 220 ($60 US) per day. 4X4 and luxury models will set you back a little more, especially during high season.

Dubai is well-served by taxis as well as the ridesharing apps like Uber and its Middle-Eastern equivalent, Careem.

In fact, the prices for roadside and rideshare taxis generally work out around the same – which is unusual. It’s worth picking up a Dubai SIM card and downloading both of the apps so that you have all the options at your fingertips.

When you hail taxis, you can ask for a price estimate and confirm whether or not the driver charges by the meter.

Public transport

Dubai has both metro and public bus systems in place. The metro operates across two lines – red and green.

These connect you to most of the major parts of the city but in some cases, the nearest station to certain attractions isn’t as close as you would hope.

So if you do opt to use public transport during your 4 days in Dubai, you will sometimes need to add on a bus or taxi transfer.

Additionally, you can use the bus system which will take you to pretty much anywhere you want to go. If you deviate from my suggested itinerary, you can use the RTA journey planner .

To use the metro and the bus, you will need to pick up a rechargeable Nol card which you can use to travel on both networks. You can do this at any metro station – the red card is suitable for getting around on your 4 days in Dubai itinerary.

It’s important to know that you can only buy Nol cards at metro stations and not at bus stations. Without a Nol card, you can’t get on any of the buses and the nearest metro station can be kilometers away. So it’s worth buying your Nol card well in advance, in case you’re planning to use public transportation in Dubai.

There are a few more exciting public transport options in Dubai which I’m going to mention in my Dubai itinerary so stay tuned!

Where to stay in Dubai

Unlike its compatriots – Singapore and Hong Kong, Dubai is not a walkable city. The distance between different places to visit is enormous. The public transportation in Dubai is also not very comprehensive and will eat up a lot of your sightseeing time.

Hence, depending on what you want to do as a tourist and your budget, you will have to decide which area would be best for you to stay in during your 4 days in Dubai.

Generally speaking, the  best areas to stay in Dubai  are Dubai Downtown, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). You can check all the hotel options in Dubai here, or if you don’t want to spend time searching, check out my recommendations below!

If you want to make your Dubai trip even more memorable, read my post about the best hotels in Dubai with Burj Khalifa view !

Do you prefer staying in Airbnbs rather than hotels? Then you need to check out my article about the best Airbnbs in Dubai , including beautiful Marina views, penthouses, and many more!

If you’re in a hurry, here are my top hotel recommendations for different budgets.

LUXURY – Atlantis the Palm

Located on Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah Island and enjoying a private sandy beach, the 5-star Atlantis offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. It provides an underwater aquarium and complimentary access to the Aquaventure water park and the Lost Chambers Aquarium.

MID-RANGE – Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina

Crowne Plaza Dubai Marina has a restaurant, an outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a bar in Dubai. Boasting family rooms, this property also provides guests with a sun terrace. The accommodation features a 24-hour front desk, room service, and currency exchange for guests.

BUDGET – Gulf Inn Hotel Al Nasr

Gulf Inn Hotel Al Nasr (formerly Roda Links Al Nasr) features a restaurant, outdoor swimming pool, a fitness center, and a shared lounge in Dubai. Featuring family rooms, this property also provides guests with a sun terrace. Gulf Inn Hotel Al Nasr offers a continental or buffet breakfast.

Overview of Your 4 Day Dubai Itinerary

Now it’s time to find out about all the amazing things to do in Dubai in 4 days! The section below includes an overview of your 4 days in Dubai itinerary with all the best highlights that I recommend visiting during each day of your trip.

While I’ve included some of the more touristy attractions that you have to see at least once in Dubai, I’ve also included a few of the more off-the-beaten-track locations as well.

Breakdown of your Dubai itinerary

• Day 1:  Al Bastakia Quarter, Dubai Museum, XVA Gallery, Souks of Deira, Dubai abra boat ride, Al Dhiyafah Road
• Day 2: Sunrise at Burj Khalifa, Burj Park by Emaar, Dubai Miracle Garden, Ride the Palm Jumeirah Monorail, Lost Chambers Aquarium, Dinner at The Pointe
• Day 3: Dubai Mall, Dubai Aquarium, Dubai Desert Safari
• Day 4: Jumeirah Mosque, Etihad Museum, Jumeirah Public Beach,  Dubai Creek Harbour, Dubai Marina

When you plan out your 4 days in Dubai itinerary bear in mind that certain attractions are closed or operate reduced hours on Friday, which is the Islamic holy day.

Map for your 4 days in Dubai

Below you can find a customized map that includes all the locations you’re going to visit on this Dubai itinerary.

I marked your 4 days in Dubai with different colors – I used blue for the first day, green for the second day, red for the third day, and yellow for the fourth day, so you can easily see which places you’re going to visit each day.

If you open up this post on your phone and you click on the bracket in the upper right corner of the map, it will automatically save this map to your Google Maps app so you can always have it with you. Super convenient, right?

Day 1 of Your 4 Days in Dubai

Al bastakiya.

Dubai is known for its glittering modern skyscrapers but tucked away beneath all the glass you can discover the traditional heritage of the city.

Al Bastakiya (also known as the Bastakiya Quarter or the Al Fahidi Historic District) gives you a feel of what Dubai was like before it has its modern facelift.

Located on the banks of Dubai Creek, Al Bastakiya was established in the 19th century when Dubai was developing into a thriving hub for trade.

The residences and commercial businesses are housed in buildings made from stone, teak, and sandalwood – which isn’t quite what you expect from Dubai! This walkable area is a labyrinth of alleyways and courtyards studded with plants, street art, cafes, museums, and galleries.

The Al Fahidi Metro is a 10-minute walk away from Al Bastakiya. I recommend that you get here as early in the day as possible before the sun heats up and then you can duck inside the following attractions to keep cool.

Dubai Museum (Temporarily closed)

The Dubai Museum is set within the 18th-century Al Fahidi Fort which happens to be the oldest building in Dubai. The collection takes you back through Dubai’s colorful heritage which spans the pearl trade and date farming.

You’ll also learn about the various desert, marine, and agricultural lifestyles of old Dubai residents and see a traditional Emirati home reconstruction.

Entry to Dubai Museum is 3 AED ($0.80 US) which makes this one of the most budget-friendly things to do in Dubai in 4 days.

The museum is open between 8.30 am-8.30 pm from Saturday to Thursday and from 2.30 pm to 8.30 pm on Fridays.

XVA Gallery

A short walk from the fort, the XVA gallery houses exhibitions from contemporary Arabian artists. Exhibitions change frequently and the works showcased are vastly different in terms of form and composition.

As many of the artists exhibited aim to raise awareness of political and social issues, it will give you plenty of food for thought.

Entry to XVA is totally free and the gallery is open daily, from 10 am to 6 pm. If you’re visiting Dubai in March, you can check out the SIKKA Art Fair that takes place here.

Sip coffee and eat dates

After you’ve had a wander around the maze of Al Bastakiya, you should reward your feet by finding a nook in one of its quaint cafes.

The Arabian Tea House serves all the Arabic food you could possibly crave. Varying from light plates, biryanis, and sweet treats you can also take your pick from a wide range of teas and coffees.

Stop here for a slice of date cake and a refreshing drink or make this your lunch stop.

Once you cross over the Dubai Creek from Bur Dubai you have the Deira district which is famous for its gold and spice souks.

The Gold Souk is a warren of avenues where you can find quality gold jewelry studded with precious gemstones.

If you do wish to buy something, make sure you shop from the official shops rather than the street vendors. Pieces are sold by weight and you are expected to barter with the salespeople – they won’t be offended.

Across from the Gold Souk, you’ll find the Spice Souk (sometimes called the Old Souk) which is home to every single spice you’ve ever heard of. Again, it’s totally acceptable to haggle so don’t be shy.

Even if you don’t want to buy anything, meandering around the souks is a fun addition to your Dubai 4 days itinerary that will immerse you in Emirati culture.

The Gold Souk is open 9.30 am – 9.30 pm from Saturday to Thursday, and 4 pm – 9.30 pm on Fridays. The Spice Souk is open earlier than 8 am to past 9 pm, except on Fridays when the market is closed. Both places are free to enter and in most cases, you can pay for products via credit card, but take extra cash just in case.

Dubai Abra boat ride

You can cross over Dubai Creek in your rental car or via the metro. But what’s much more fun is riding on the Dubai abra!

These are historic wooden vessels that are half boat, half raft. The motorized traditional abra has been fitted with a motor but the original style remains. These ones ferry locals and tourists from Bur Dubai to Deira and vice versa.

It might surprise you that the birthplace of Dubai’s trading heritage, Dubai Creek, is still used for this function even today. Whilst you cross over the creek you can expect to see various boats of cargo being loaded or unloaded.

During your Dubai itinerary, you can choose to transit to and from each district via abra . The crossing only costs 1 AED ($0.30 US) in the motorized traditional boat. I would recommend crossing back to Bur Dubai at sunset.

If you want to soak up more of the Dubai Creek, you might want to hop aboard the Petrol Heritage Abra on the 45-minute scenic cruise.

This costs AED 25 ($6.80 US) per person or you can even charter a private traditional abra for AED 120 ($32.70 US) for an hour-long private tour.

Al Dhiyafah Road

To tie in with your cultural immersion of ancient Dubai, for the first evening of your 4 days in Dubai I suggest diving into some tasty Middle Eastern food. As a cosmopolitan city, you can actually find more or less any food nationalities in Dubai.

Al Dhiyafah Road is Dubai’s hotspot for affordable street-food-style restaurants that range from Emirati, Middle Eastern, South Asian, and beyond.

If you need some inspiration, check out Al Mallah Dhiyafah for your Arabic and Lebanese favorites. You can walk off your meal by taking a stroll past the Satwa Big Mosque which looks amazing under a quilt of stars.

The closest metro to reach the strip of eateries is the World Trade Centre. From there you can walk around 15 minutes to find where the cluster of restaurants begins.

Day 2 of Your 4 Days in Dubai

Sunrise at burj khalifa.

One of the unmissable things to do in Dubai in 4 days is to summit the tallest tower on the planet!

The cloud-piercing Burj Khalifa measures an incredible 830 meters (2,720 feet) in height and wherever you go in Dubai, you’ll constantly be under its gaze.

Whilst you can appreciate the architecture from the ground, visiting the observation deck means that you get to see the best views across the city and Persian Gulf. It’s a bit pricey but trust me, it’s totally worth it!

Admission tickets to the observation deck (level 124 and 125) start at AED 169 ($46 US), you can buy your tickets here . If you want to also visit level 148 ticket prices start at AED 399 ($108.60 US), you can buy them here . You also have the possibility to visit the world’s highest lounge (levels 152, 153, 154), for AED 769 ($209.40 US).

If you want to book your visit to coincide with sunset (prime hours are 4 pm – 6 pm), the tickets are more expensive. Whichever option you choose, make sure to book your tickets online in advance!

My personal recommendation is to visit at sunrise instead of sunset because this way you’ll have fewer crowds and have a more peaceful experience. The light is incredible for photographs.

A 10-minute walk away, the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall metro station is the closest public transport option. Alternatively, there is masses of parking at the mall.

Burj Park by Emaar

The Burj Park by Emaar is an island that sits within the Burj Lake, across from the Dubai Fountain (the world’s largest). It was originally constructed for special events and formal occasions so the presentation is immaculate.

Plus, it gives you some of the best views of the Burj Khalifa so if you’re looking for the most instagrammable places in Dubai , you definitely need to check it out!

At the time I visited the park, cameras were not allowed but it was fine to take photos with smartphones. This rule appears to have relaxed however you might want to plan to be stealthy with your camera, just in case.

Make sure you have a wide-angle lens with you, otherwise you will have a hard time fitting the whole Burj Khalifa in your photo!

You can easily walk to the Burj Park by Emaar from the Burj Khalifa within minutes.

Dubai Miracle Garden

Featuring over 50 million flowers, the Dubai Miracle Garden is the largest (Dubai really likes its world records!) natural flower garden on the planet.

There are also 250 million plants sharing this space. All the displays are innovatively curated and there’s even an Emirates plane drenched with blooms.

If you follow my advice and visit Dubai during the winter months, you can add this floral paradise to your Dubai itinerary.

However, the garden is closed from mid-May until November so if you plan to visit during these months, then unfortunately you’ll have to skip this one and spend longer on the other items on today’s agenda.

The closest metro station is the Mall of Emirates (red line). From there you need to take the 105 bus which drops you right outside the Miracle Garden.

Alternatively, you can hail a taxi to save time. If you are driving your rental – there are loads of parking around the garden.

Palm Jumeirah

Once you’ve had your fill of flowers you can head over to another of Dubai’s most famous attractions – the Palm Jumeirah.

This is the sprawling artificial island that resembles a palm tree from above, so don’t forget to peer out of the plane window on arrival in the city.

Palm Jumeirah is studded with some of Dubai’s fanciest hotels, private residences, and upscale eateries. Atlantis The Palm, one of the most famous hotels in the world, is located at the end. Besides the cost of the transport, Palm Jumeirah is free to visit and you don’t have to be a guest at any of the resorts to explore it.

The best way to access the island during your Dubai 4 days itinerary is by riding the super-speedy and very convenient Palm Monorail. You can park your car by the Palm Gateway station or have a taxi drop you there if you are coming from the Dubai Miracle Garden.

A single ticket costs AED 20 ($5.45 US), a round trip costs AED 30 ($8.20 US) and an unlimited day pass costs AED 35 ($9.50 US). You can buy these in advance or at the station.

Lost Chambers Aquarium

You might want to tap on a few hours to explore the Atlantis-themed Lost Chambers Aquarium, which is part of the plush Atlantis Hotel.

The Ambassador Lagoon is home to a whopping 65,000 marine creatures and the aquarium is rich in information about the exhibits and conservation efforts.

Entry to the Lost Chambers costs AED 115 ($31.30 US), you can buy your tickets here . If you want to make your visit even more special, you can choose to tap on additional experiences like scuba diving.

The aquarium is open daily 10 am – 9 pm.

For the second evening of your 4 days in Dubai itinerary, you can dine in style on Palm Jumeirah. There is no shortage of places to eat on Palm Island but my recommendation is to eat at The Pointe.

This is a new neighborhood that has been developed only recently and now has over 80 restaurants and bars in addition to various boutiques.

There is a beautiful fountain that rivals the Dubai Fountain and The Pointe hosts regular events, festivals, and farmers’ markets.

If you want to watch a film 5 kilometers at sea, you can even do that. Those 80 restaurants cover Arabic, Mexican and Asian food to name a few and you can find scrumptious seafood plates too.

Day 3 of Your 4 Days in Dubai

Even if you’re not a fan of shopping, no Dubai 4 days itinerary can be complete without a trip to one of the city’s prestigious malls. Even if you only want to window shop.

Dubai Mall is the largest mall in the world in terms of land area – yes, another world record for this Middle Eastern city! You can shop for clothes, interiors, toys, fragrances, and beyond, plus there are loads of places to grab some breakfast.

In addition to all the shops, there are some cool installations dotted around the plaza, like the Waterfall Wall. The sculpture traverses all four levels of the mall and depicts human divers plunging gracefully into the pool of water at the bottom.

Dubai Mall opens daily at 10 am and closes at 11 pm from Monday to Thursday and 12 am from Friday to Sunday.

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

Inside the Dubai Mall is the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo – home to sharks, rays, and tens of thousands of tropical fish. A huge walk-through tunnel gives you the chance to get up so close you’ll almost feel like you’re scuba diving!

The entrance to the aquarium is located on the 2nd floor and it is open during weekdays 10 am – 11 pm and on weekends 10 am – 12 am. Tickets start at AED 199 ($54 US) and you can add encounters or skip the line admission. You can buy your tickets to Dubai Aquarium here !

Unless you really love sea life, you might not want to visit both of Dubai’s aquariums. So feel free to decide which one you want to include in your 4 days in Dubai (the Dubai Aquarium or the Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis The Palm) and give the other a miss.

Dubai Desert Safari

Buckle up – the next item on your Dubai itinerary is going to give you an adrenaline blast!  As the city of Dubai rises out of the evocative red sand dunes you’ve no doubt spotted photos of, it would be crazy to miss the chance to see them for yourself.

If you’ve followed my advice so far and went inside the Dubai Museum, then you’ll visit the desert with some existing understanding of the Bedouin way of life.

Once in the desert, you will have the chance to gain even deeper knowledge with a series of interactive cultural activities.

To make the most of the desert, you need to book a desert safari tour. There is no shortage of options but I’m personally recommending the Al Khayma Camp desert safari that we went on.

This one is of great value as it includes dune bashing, sandboarding, camel feeding, henna painting, watching a dance show, and a scrumptious sunset BBQ. You get to stay in the camp until the sun vanishes, and experience the desert in the dark.

If you want to go quad biking you can add this on but you will need to pay extra. You will be collected from your hotel around 2 pm by a professional driver and a 4×4 Land Cruiser which will take you out into the Lahbab Desert. Afterward, you will be dropped off back at your hotel, so you don’t need to worry about transportation at all.

This is one of the most popular desert tours in Dubai and they really live up to all the expectations! In case the tours are sold out or you’re looking for something else, make sure to check out my post about the best desert safaris in Dubai that contains 15 amazing options for every budget.

Day 4 of your 4 Days in Dubai

Jumeirah mosque.

As one of only two mosques open to non-Muslims in the city, taking a tour of the Jumeirah Mosque is one of the most fascinating things to do in Dubai in 4 days.

Although it was constructed in the 1970s, the style commemorates traditional mosque architecture.

Built in a Fatimid style that originates from Syria/Egypt, the mosque is one of the most attractive places of worship in the whole city.

A tour is the best way to visit the mosque as you’ll gain a unique insight into the culture of Islam in the UAE and have the chance to ask questions. Tours operate daily at 10 am (excluding Fridays) and last a little over one hour.

You should arrive at 9.30 am to register – there’s no need to do this in advance. The tour costs AED 35 ($9.50 US) per person and includes Emirati snacks and coffee.

If you don’t want to take the tour you can still visit the mosque and appreciate the exteriors. The closest metro stop is Al Jafiliya. From there you can take a short taxi ride to the mosque or hop on the C10 bus.

Modest dress is required if you visit the mosque, including the need to cover your hair with a headscarf. If you forget, there are some clothes that you can hire for the tour.

Etihad Museum

The Etihad Museum is a 15-minute walk from the mosque. Whilst the Dubai Museum focuses on local history, this museum spans the foundation of the UAE.

The archive shows you a glimpse of the past before and after the treaty that now unites the seven emirates was signed.

As you can tell from the exterior, this is a very modernly curated museum and some of the technology inside is pretty futuristic. It’s a fun and interactive way to digest the history of the UAE.

Entry to the Etihad Museum is AED 25 ($6.80 US). It’s open daily 10 am – 8 pm, with guided tours scheduled at 12 pm and 5 pm. Plan to spend 2-3 hours exploring the collections.

Jumeirah Public Beach

With all those glitzy skyscrapers, endless malls, wondrous gardens, epic fountains, and historic docklands – you might have forgotten something.

Dubai occupies a prime position in the Persian Gulf and also has an amazing collection of sandy beaches. And after a packed couple of days aborning the city – you’ve earned a dip in that inviting water.

If you’re spending 4 days in Dubai then my suggestion is Jumeirah Public Beach. The beach is free to access and provides one of the best views of the Burj al Arab.

Rising to 321 meters (1,050 feet), this sail-shaped hotel is another of Dubai’s architectural wonders. Cast out in the ocean, you can get the best views of the world’s only 7-star hotel from Jumeirah Public Beach.

With soft golden sand, the beach is perfect for sunbathing and swimming in the bathtub-warm ocean. You can also go surfing or dabble in other watersports.

You can walk to Jumeirah Public Beach from Etihad Museum in 20-30 minutes. Alternatively jump on bus 8, 9, or C10 and alight opposite McDonald’s.

Dubai Creek Harbour

Dubai Creek Harbour is a neighborhood located in eastern Dubai which provides one of the best views of the city skyline.

At the time I visited, the area was still under development but now it’s bustling with restaurants and quirky street art and sculptures.

Many people confuse this place with Dubai Creek but while Dubai Creek is a saltwater creek that is now part of the new Dubai canal, Dubai Creek Harbour is a specific neighborhood on the shores of Dubai Creek.

Currently, it can’t be reached with public transportation so you will need to arrange a taxi to get there, however, it’s absolutely worth it!

After a busy 4 days in Dubai, this is a wonderful spot to take stock of what you’ve seen and reflected on your time in the city.

I recommend visiting in time for sunset as you’ll be able to get some special photos of the sun sinking behind Dubai’s striking cityscape.

You might want to stay here and enjoy a glass of wine or even order dinner as the Dubai skyline twinkles in the background. At Mondoux , you can tuck into ocean-fresh seafood dishes and burgers.

Dubai Marina

Last but not least – you should wrap up your holiday in the Middle East with some cocktails overlooking the Dubai Marina. You can ride the red line to the Dubai Marina metro station or treat yourself to a taxi.

You’re spoilt for choice with options for bars but some of the best ones for drinks, views, and overall ambiance are  Pure Sky Lounge and Bliss Lounge .

Alternatively, if you don’t want to eat at Dubai Creek Harbour, you can have dinner at Dubai Marina as well. If so, I would recommend booking a table in advance at the restaurant you choose.

Planning a trip to the UAE?

Then you might want to take a look at all our other travel guides about the United Arab Emirates. I promise, they are just as awesome as this article was!

• Top 10 Best Areas to Stay in Dubai
• 23 Incredible Dubai Hotels with Burj Khalifa View
• 21 Super Unique Airbnbs in Dubai for Every Budget
• 24 Most Beautiful Instagrammable Places in Dubai
• 15 Best Desert Safaris in Dubai You Can’t Go Wrong With
• 88 Best Dubai Quotes & Dubai Captions for Instagram
• Hotel Review: Fairmont The Palm, Dubai
• Hotel Review: Th8 Palm, Dubai
• Where to Stay in Abu Dhabi: 7 Best Areas & Hotels
• How to See the Best of Abu Dhabi in One Day
• 7 Epic Instagrammable Places in Abu Dhabi You Can’t Miss
• Abu Dhabi vs Dubai: Which One to Visit and Why
• Hotel Review: Shangri-La Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi
• Hotel Review: The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi, Grand Canal

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25 best things to do in Dubai

Jun 4, 2021 • 12 min read

Whether it's in a souk or a mall, shopping in Dubai is an essential experience © Matteo Colombo/Getty Images

If you're planning to visit Dubai, you'll find a stirring mix of profound traditions and futuristic vision wrapped into starkly evocative desert splendour.

You won't be short of things to do in the sci-fi-esque land of iconic skyscrapers, palm-shaped islands, city-sized malls and palatial beach resorts. Dubai embraces sunshine, innovation and cultural dynamism, and is known as a shopping haven with a vibrant nightlife and entertainment scene. Here are some great things to do to make the most from your trip.

Burj Khalifa

Dubai is famous for its dramatic skyscrapers, and above them all looms the Burj Khalifa , shaped like a deep-space rocket and, at 828m, the world's tallest building. It's a stunning feat of architecture and engineering, and a trip to the observation deck on the 124th floor (1483ft) is the most popular way to take in the amazing views it offers. You can also buy tickets for "At the Top Sky" on the 148th floor, which is the world's highest outdoor observation deck at 1820ft.

Clad in 28,000 glass panels, the Burj Khalifa also lays claim to several more superlatives, including the highest occupied floor and an elevator with the longest travel distance. On hazy days, it’s better to visit at night.

Al Fahidi Historic District

Wandering around this restored heritage area in Bur Dubai provides a tangible sense of historic Middle Eastern architecture and culture. Low-lying traditional courtyard buildings flank this quiet labyrinth of lanes in Al Fahidi Historic District , many of them featuring arabesque windows, decorative gypsum screens and wind towers.

Some contain craft shops, small heritage museums, art galleries, artsy guesthouses or cafés serving local fare, including Middle Eastern breakfasts and camel milk smoothies. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding leads guided tours of the quarter.

Dubai Miracle Garden

Covering some 2000 sq metres and touted as the largest natural flower garden in the world, there’s a sense of Alice in Wonderland–esque surrealism when entering Dubai Miracle Garden . Wander past quirky bloom-covered peacocks, clocks and castles, or alternatively, chill out in a cabana with billowing drapes and floor cushions.

Home to 100 million flowers, and adjacent to the enormous nine-dome Dubai Butterfly Garden, it is incredibly popular, attracting 55,000 visitors a week. There are food outlets on site as well as a souvenir shop and small trampoline park.

Shop 'til you drop

Shopping malls represent an integral part of the culture and lifestyle in Dubai. Not merely places for maxing out your credit cards on fashion, electronics or gourmet foods, malls are also where locals go to socialize in cafés and restaurants, to catch a movie in a state-of-the-art multiplex or to get adrenaline kicks in an indoor theme park or game arcade. The best and biggest of the bunch is Dubai Mall, which features not only 1300 stores but also a giant aquarium, an indoor ice rink and a genuine dinosaur skeleton.

Serious shoppers can check out the Dubai Shopping Festival, which lures bargain-hunters from around the world. It takes place in January each year, and there are huge discounts in the souqs and malls. The city is abuzz with activities during the festival, ranging from live concerts to fashion shows and nightly fireworks.

Mushrif National Park

One of the oldest parks in Dubai, Mushrif National Park covers more than 5 sq km of natural ghaf forest. Mushrif is located around 15km east of the city centre, and is a haven for birds, including owls, Orphean warblers, hoopoes and black redstarts. Dating from 1974, the park has plenty of manmade attractions as well, including walking trails and bicycle tracks, a large children's playground, a swimming pool and barbecue pits.

Read more: The 9 best parks in Dubai

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

On the outskirts of Sharjah , the 225 sq km Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve accounts for 5% of the Emirate of Dubai's total land. The reserve was established in 1999 and has been involved in projects to reintroduce mountain gazelles, sand gazelles and Arabian oryx.

It's possible to stay inside the reserve at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa , which was designed for superluxe ecotourism. The reserve is divided into four zones, the third of which is only open to resort guests and the fourth to a small number of desert tour operators, including Arabian Adventures , offering a less costly admission than overnighting at the resort.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

In 2016, Dubai added four theme parks to its stable of attractions, including IMG Worlds of Adventure , the world's largest indoor theme park. Housed in an air-conditioned hangar the size of 28 football fields, the park is truly impressive, with more than 20 rides and attractions split across four themed zones – Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure and IMG Boulevard. You won't go hungry as there are 28 dining outlets to choose from.

Etihad Museum

Opened in 2017, the striking Etihad Museum engagingly chronicles the birth of the United Arab Emirates in 1971, spurred by the discovery of oil in the 1950s and the withdrawal of the British in 1968.

Documentary films, photographs, artifacts, timelines and interactive displays zero in on historic milestones in the years leading up to and immediately following this momentous occasion, and they pay homage to the country's seven founding fathers. Free tours of the adjacent circular Union House are available, which is where the historic signing of the Constitution of the United Arab Emirates took place.

For a dose of Arabian Nights flair, head to Dubai's historic core and plunge headlong into its charmingly chaotic warren of markets. The famed headliner is the dazzling Gold Souq . Even if you don't have a thing for bling, a walk through here will feel like you've entered a giant Aladdin's Cave. It's fun to just watch the action, especially in the evening. If you're buying, sharpen your haggling skills, no matter whether shopping for teensy earrings, an engagement ring or a dowry-worthy necklace.

White Dubai

Dazzling rooftop bars, chill beachfront lounges, classic pubs, cool karaoke joints, speakeasy-style nightclubs, live-music venues – with such variety, finding a party location to suit your mood is hardly a tall order in Dubai. One of the biggest draws for nocturnal action is White Dubai. The mega-venue with its impressive light and sound systems sits smack dab on top of the grandstand of the Meydan Racecourse.

Desert escapes

The Arabian desert, with its weathered mountains, undulating sand dunes and wide open spaces, exudes a special mystique that can easily be savored on a day trip from urbanized Dubai. There are numerous tour operators to set you up with everything from camel treks to sandboarding or overnight safaris. The best ones offer an authentic look at local culture through encounters with Bedouins and traditional meals. Alternatively, consider hiring a 4WD and staying at a desert resort, so you can appreciate the magnificent scenery on your own schedule.

Read more: Top 9 day trips from Dubai

Dubai Museum

Housed in Bur Dubai's Al Fahidi Fort, the city's oldest surviving structure, Dubai Museum, provides a well-laid-out introduction to the history of the emirate. Marvel at its turbo-evolution from simple desert settlement to futuristic metropolis in just a third of a century. Dioramas recreate traditional scenes in a market, at home and in the mosque, while other galleries focus on life at sea and in the desert. An archaeological exhibition illustrates the ancient history of the region with a display of items unearthed during excavations at local digs.

Dubai Design District

This hub for creatives lures visitors with its edgy architecture, contemporary restaurants, public art, galleries and calendar of cultural events. Visitors to Dubai Design District can tap into this laboratory of tastemakers by browsing showrooms and pop-ups, eavesdropping on bearded hipsters in sleek cafés, checking out art exhibits in building lobbies, or attending free screenings and workshops. The week-long Dubai Design Week is held there in November, with an extensive offering of talks, workshops, masterclasses and kids' activities.

Dubai Butterfly Garden

If you want to deepen your knowledge of these pretty flying insects, pop into the Dubai Butterfly Museum , located next to the Dubai Miracle Garden. Some 15,000 butterflies flutter around nine indoor domed gardens, and you can see for yourself how they begin as caterpillars and evolve into their flying adaptations. Don’t miss the Butterfly and Insect Museum, which features in-depth analysis and information about thousands of colorful butterfly species from around the world.

Museum of Illusions

It opened in 2018 and the Museum of Illusions in the Al Seef district is fast becoming a favorite for families and Instagram fans. Kids will love the 150-plus illusions, including the rooms of mirrors, distorted perspective and various other optical illusions, while parents can take memorably wacky photos. Avoid visiting at weekends if possible, as visitors are restricted by number and you may have to wait your turn.

Jumeirah Mosque

Snowy white and intricately detailed, Jumeirah is Dubai's most beautiful mosque and one of only a handful in the United Arab Emirates open to non-Muslims. It's particularly beautiful at dusk and visitors are allowed in six days a week. One-hour guided tours are operated by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding , and while modest dress is preferred, traditional clothing can be borrowed for free.

Dubai Fountain

The dancing Dubai Fountain is spectacularly set in the middle of a giant lake against the backdrop of the glittering Burj Khalifa. Water undulates as gracefully as a belly dancer, arcs like a dolphin and surges as high as 140m, all synced to stirring classical, Arabic and world music soundtracks played on speakers. There are plenty of great vantage points, including a 272m-long floating boardwalk, which takes you just 9m away from the fountain.

Other good viewing spots include some of the restaurants at Souk Al Bahar , the bridge linking Souk Al Bahar with Dubai Mall, the Dubai Mall waterfront terrace, or aboard a 25-minute Dubai Fountain Lake Ride on a traditional wooden abra boat.

Emirates Airline Festival of Literature

The long-running annual Emirates Airline Festival of Literature brings authors and thousands of book fans together to celebrate all things reading and writing. Held over nine days in March, the festival hosts talks, discussions, panels and a special program just for children, with many activities free to attend. It offers attendees a chance to meet local and world-famous authors, attend literary debates and workshops, participate in competitions and be inspired by their literary heroes.

Global Village

The carnival-like Global Village is a bit like a ‘world fair’ for shoppers, and you'll find it on Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311). Each of the 30-something pavilions showcases a specific nation’s culture and products. Aside from shopping, there's also lots of entertainment – from Chinese opera to Turkish whirling dervishes – as well as a funfair with dozens of rides from tame to terrifying.

Burj Al Arab

This landmark luxe hotel, with its dramatic design that mimics the billowing sail of a ship, floats on its own artificial island and has become the iconic symbol of Dubai’s boom years. The Burj Al Arab's interior is all about impact, drama and unapologetic bling, with dancing fountains, gold fittings, shiny marble and whirlpool baths your butler can fill with champagne if you so wish. If a stay exceeds your budget, you can still partake in the opulence by making reservations for cocktails, afternoon tea or dinner in the underwater restaurant.

Dubai Frame

Opened in January 2018, this 150m rectangular 'picture frame' sits in Zabeel Park , right between historic and modern Dubai, and provides grand views of both parts of the city. Galleries on the ground floor of Dubai Frame tell the story of Dubai (the past) before visitors are whisked up to a viewing platform at roof level (the present). The final stop is another gallery depicting a vision of Dubai 50 years from now (the future).

Al Qudra Lake

One for the nature lovers, Al Qudra Lake is a series of man-made lakes set amidst the rolling dunes of the Saih Al Salam desert on Dubai’s southern outskirts. Part of the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve, the surrounding area is unspoiled. Swap skyscrapers for wide open dunes and oasis-like pools where you can spot plenty of free-roaming wildlife, more than 100 species of birds and several desert plants.

This long, pristine stretch of white sand, off Jumeirah Road and next to a mosque, is superclean and has lots of activities, including kitesurfing, beach tennis, beach volleyball and kayaking. There are showers, wi-fi, toilets and changing facilities on Kite Beach , plus lots of food trucks and cafés. It offers great views of the Burj Al Arab, and gets very busy on Friday and Saturday when a seaside market with crafts and gifts sets up.

Perfume Museum

The waterfront Perfume Museum is part of the Al Shindagha Museum restoration project and is the former home of a Dubai sheikha who loved all things perfume. The old building has been restored and its interactive exhibits are based around scent, smells and fragrance. Keep your entry ticket and you’ll get free access to the nearby Dubai Creek House .

Steps from the Deira Old Souk abra station, the sound of Arabic chatter bounces around the lanes of this covered market. Dubai's famous Spice Souk is filled with intoxicating sights and smells. Its vendors work hard to unload cardamom, saffron and other aromatic herbs photogenically stored in burlap sacks alongside nuts, incense burners, henna kits, shishas and dried limes. Away from the tourist-oriented main thoroughfare, tiny shops also sell groceries and other household goods.

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Like a local | 17 Dubai travel hacks for first-timers

Things to do in Dubai Dubai Travel Guide Travel Tips And Hacks Dubai

Not so long ago, UAE barely surfaced in bucket lists for globe trotters. Within a matter of decades, the middle-eastern country has given the world not one, but two of the most luxurious destinations for a vacation. Currently, Dubai happens to be one of the most popular haunts for all kinds of travelers. The city has done a commendable job in developing the city to fit the tastes and preferences of people belong to any demographic. As such, you may require a little help to curate your trip to your liking. Read our guide below find useful hacks and money-saving tips for your trip to Dubai.

Dubai Essentials

Starting with the essentials, here's what you must know before getting to Dubai.

Language Arabic

Time zone GMT+4

Country Code +971

Socket Type C, D and G

Currency AED

Best Time To Visit Dubai

There are a number of factors that need to be considered before deciding on a time to visit Dubai. If there is one thing that is not ideal in Dubai, it is the weather. Summer in Dubai spans from May to September and sees extremely hot weather. Winter sees better weather but also experiences a sharp spike in the tourist footfall. If you had to pin it down to specific months of the year, February and November are the best times to visit Dubai. However, it must be noted that Dubai is never completely devoid of tourists. Here is a complete guide on the Best Time to Visit Dubai .

Dubai Travel Tips 101 - A First Timer's Holy Grail

Below are the tips and hacks you're here for. Read on and thank me later!

#1 Grab a Go Dubai Card with no second thoughts

The Go Dubai Card is the smartest investment you can make upon reaching Dubai. This card allows you to save on the admission rates to many of Dubai’s top attractions. The card currently includes access to the top of Burj Khalifa, Dubai sightseeing tours, and many other activities that would otherwise cost you dearly.

Read all about creating a money-saving itinerary using the Go Dubai Card

#2 Let your belongings be

Dubai is one of the safest cities to be in. The government administers the city with an iron fist and as such, the rate of crime is negligible. So you can stop worrying about your belongings and enjoy the sights and attractions of the city.

#3 Know the Dubai Airport well

Fittingly, the Dubai International Airport is huge in every sense of the term. It will take you quite some time to get from one part of the airport to the other. Do not plan any activities immediately after arriving. Also, leave for the airport well in advance to board your flight.

Here's all you need to know about Airport transfers in Dubai .

#4 Dubai's not as conservative as you think

You may have heard horrific stories of foreigners being locked up for PDA, public inebriation and homosexuality. All that said, Dubai is way more liberal than most Islamic countries. There are no concrete laws in Dubai that forbid anybody from wearing any kind of clothes but being a country with conservative values, it is preferable and respectful to wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees. The nightlife is quite happening and you'll find expats and tourists drinking and canoodling in the many bars and clubs in the city. There's even a healthy gay community in Dubai! As long as you steer clear of cultural insensitivities, you're good to go in Dubai.

The ONLY guide you need to explore the best of Dubai

#5 make inquiries about your medications.

There are some substances that may be legal in your country but are forbidden in the UAE. Most notable amongst them are medicines containing codeine or opiate ingredients. Visit your doctor beforehand to know the composition of your medications and change your prescription if required.

#6 Limit your liquor to bars & indoors

UAE being an Islamic nation follows the decrees dictated by the religion quite closely. Alcohol is not permitted outside the licensed restaurants and bars. You cannot be seen inebriated in public. A wide variety of drugs are also illegal in Dubai and their use is a punishable offense. Even electronic cigarettes are confiscated upon arrival.

#7 Check the calendar for Islamic events

During Islamic holidays like Eid, Ramazan etc, most happenings in the city are slim and limited. This may also affect the transport system within the city. In special cases, like during the holy month of Ramadan, food and beverage are not available before sunset. Plan your trip and daily sightseeing with these in mind.

#8 Don't forget to check out the Spas

Image Courtesy : Jumeirah

Not many people know Dubai for its spas, but once you go to one of the city’s spas, you will know why this point exists. The luxury hotels of Dubai have these spas that will change your opinion of spas forever. You can give the beauty clinics in the malls a miss.

Check out the top rated spas in Dubai

#9 Malls have a lot more than just shops in Dubai

While malls are mostly earmarked as a place to grab some food and shop, Dubai’s malls are way beyond this limited identity. Most malls have fun activities like gaming zones, ski slopes, aquariums or something that is definitely worth sticking around for. Moreover, if you thought that shopping at a Dubai mall would be a routine experience, you are wrong.

Here's all that you can do in Dubai Mall with this all access Dubai Big Ticket .

#10 Shed your inhibitions when eating out

Possibly the biggest issue that most people face when traveling to another country for the first time is getting accustomed to the food. In Dubai, being conservative when picking your food can only mean that you are losing out. Apart from the delicious local dishes, the city also serves Iranian, Filipino, Yemeni, Bangladeshi, Ethiopian, Pakistani, Afghan food to name a few.

Top 23 Instagrammable Places in Dubai

#11 here's one for the shopaholics.

If shopping is your primary agenda in Dubai, plan your visit during the Dubai Shopping Festival (January) or Dubai Summer Surprises (July) for the best deals and heftiest discounts. Name it and you'll find it on sale during these months.

Read our complete guide to Dubai Shopping Festival and plan your shopping expedition better!

#12 Weekends in Dubai start on Friday

While the rest of the world powers through Monday blues, those in Dubai have Sunday blues. This is because weekends in Dubai are Friday & Saturday, with the weekday resuming on Sunday. So shift your sunday brunch plans to Friday brunch plans because that is how this part of the world works.

#13 Dubai's not a city for walking

Those who love exploring a city on foot will be disappointed because this is one city that is explored better in a car. For starters, the heat is unbearable and secondly, the city is not designed for pedestrians. While it is pedestrian friendly, you probably won't feel safe walking on a footpath flanked by cars swooshing past 120km/hr. The only places you'll feel safe and comfortable walking are the malls which make up for the lack of footpaths!

#14 Should you tip?

Tipping isn’t norm in Dubai, but it is a common practice. Taxi drivers don’t expect to receive a tip, but luggage carriers and supermarket baggers are given a small tip for their services by most locals.

#15 Nightlife in Dubai is actually LIT

While most people may be apprehensive about Dubai's nightlife, you must know that Dubai's nightlife is vibrant and happening with a top-notch choice of bars, nightclubs and restaurants to lounge in and party. Parties often go on till 3:00 AM, so put on your best heels and party the night away while in Dubai. Yacht cruises in Dubai are also a great way to drink, dine and party; a common extravagance among locals.

Check out these clubs for the most happening nightlife in Dubai .

#16 Discover Dubai beyond the skyscrapers

Dubai has a rich history, and the city's culture is absolutely fascinating if you scratch beneath all that gold. Make your way to the spice and gold souqs that fringe the Dubai Creek and haggle your way through turquoise trinkets from Iran, spices from Morocco and silver from Oman. Gold prices in Dubai are relatively cheaper, hence the gold souq is a great place to spend some big money if you're interested in buying some.

#17 Camel Races are a treat

Image Courtesy : Timeout Dubai

Camel racing is not so common in most parts of the world, but it Dubai's favourite sport and a real treat for one who has never seen camels racing before. Did you know there are no actual jockeys on these camels, but rather small robots that sit on top of the animals and are controlled by someone nearby!!! The camel-racing tracks are massive that you can barely see the participants from your grandstand perch, but this one makes for a great experience.

Tips For Saving Money On Transportation In Dubai

• Book your flight tickets to Dubai tickets well in advance to get the best prices. Not to forget, searching for flights on incognito is a good tactic to avoid cookies marking up prices based on your previous searches.
• Take a flight to Abu Dhabi instead of Dubai as the flight rates to Abu Dhabi are cheaper. Direct buses are available from Abu dhabi to Dubai and you'll reach in less than 1.5 hours.
• Grab a NOL Travel Card soon after reaching Dubai as cash is not accepted on most public transport modes, except cabs. NOL Card also saves some money as it is a unified payment mode valid over a long period of time. Check out this steal combo - Dubai NOL Metro Card + SIM Card
• Metro is the cheapest and the fastest way of traveling through the city with tickets starting from AED 4.
• Buses are pricier than metros and take longer, but they have better connectivity.
• Refrain from using cabs in Dubai as they are extremely expensive and can run up your costs.
• Use the ferries to traverse through the Dubai Marina. This mode of transport adds an element of sightseeing to the experience, especially after sundown.
• Taking an abra ride across the Dubai Creek is a great way to experience the city's historic mode of transport. A one-way ticket per person costs only AED 50, economical and exciting!

Tips for Saving Money on Food in Dubai

• After you've had your fill with the high-end bougie restaurants in Dubai, walk into the bustling alleys and devour a plate of shawarma and kebab. Not only is it cheaper, it promises an explosion of flavours and authenticity.
• Ordering takeout in Dubai is not an expensive affair. The online delivery market leaders are UberEats, Zomato delivery and Talabat so feel free to laze at home and order in food at no extra costs( except a nominal delivery fee)
• One of the cheapest and most delicious options for food available in Dubai is shawarma. It is available with different types of meat ( and vegetarian option of Falafel) and makes for a filling meal.
• Choose Dubai packaged tours from Headout that offer a bundled meal option to save some more money on your trip.

More Tips To Save Money In Dubai

• Use online coupons for meals and other deals to save a considerable amount on the actual rate. Zomato Gold, Groupon, Headout Offers are a few you must consider.
• Choose a hotel close to a metro stop so that you can avail the cheapest and the fastest mode of transport in Dubai.
• Use the city’s couch-surfing community to save on accommodations.
• Skip drinking at restaurants and bars outside the happy hours as the normal price of alcohol at bars and restaurants are exorbitantly higher than the actual selling price.
• If you're staying in Dubai for longer than 3 days, a service apartment or Airbnb works out to be cheaper than a hotel. That way you can even cook your own food and save the hefty service charges that hotels levy.
• Use the Smart Palms that can be found in the streets of Dubai. These artificial structures that look like palm trees have charging ports and provide free WiFi.

Top Things To Do in Dubai

With your itinerary all sorted, here are our top favourites in Dubai. If any of these are missing from your itinerary, make sure you squeeze them in! There are a few recommended tours for each attraction, so if you haven't grabbed tickets as yet, now would be a great time.

1 Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa, one of the most recognized sights in the world, is located in the center of Dubai. With a height of 2,717 feet and 162 floors, this architectural marvel holds the Guinness World Record for being the tallest building in the world. Visitors may go all the way to the top of this engineering wonder and gaze upon the stunning views below.

2 Dubai Frame

The Frame of Dubai, a stunning architectural marvel with two towers and a 93m long bridge linking them at the top, contains a void in the center rising from Dubai's Zabeel Park. The Frame of Dubai was built to "frame" Dubai's transition from a simple fishing village to the gleaming cosmopolitan metropolis it is today.

3 Ski Dubai

Avoid the heat of Dubai by going skiing in UAE's winter wonderland, Ski Dubai! The first indoor ski resort in the Middle East is located at the Mall of the Emirates. Ski Dubai has a 22,500-square-meter covered area with real snow all year that may be visited.

4 Dubai Desert Safari

The most fascinating of these excursions is the Dubai desert safari. After all, what can be more thrilling than a 4x4 vehicle journey into the adjacent desert? Dune bashing, fat bike riding, four-wheeling, and sand boarding are just a few of the interesting activities that make up a typical Dubai desert safari.

5 Dubai Dhow Cruise

Dhow cruises are famous for their unusual sightseeing and dining experiences, as they cruise the waterways of Dubai Creek and the contemporary Dubai Marina. Sailing past prominent monuments while enjoying a delicious meal is an experience you will never forget.

6 Aquaventure Waterpark

The Atlantis, The Palm Resort is located on the outer ring of the famed Palm Islands. The Aquaventure Waterpark, which is located within its borders, is the largest waterpark in all of the Middle East and Europe. Experience record-breaking water rides and slides, swim with sharks and rays, or simply relax on beautiful beaches while visiting an underwater world.

7 Ferrari World

Ferrari World Dubai is an indoor theme park located in the United Arab Emirates. The park is operated by Meraas Holding and features rides, attractions and shows based on the Ferrari brand.The park opened to the public on 4 November 2016. It is located on Yas Island, which also houses Abu Dhabi International Airport and Yas Marina Circuit.

8 Wild Wadi Water Park

The United Arab Emirates is home to some of the world's best water parks, including thrilling slides, one-of-a-kind rides, and relaxing rivers. While selecting a favorite may be difficult, Wild Wadi stands out for many people.

9 Yas Waterworld

Yas Waterworld quickly rose to become one of the world's top 10 water parks. It is one of Abu Dhabi's favorite activities and serves as one of the Middle East's largest water parks with a 37-acre footprint.

10 XLine Dubai Marina

The Xline Dubai Marina Zip Line is a thrilling journey that combines speed with a breathtaking view. Get on board and enjoy the rush as you plummet over 80 feet from the Amwaj Towers, across the Marina, and straight into the Dubai Marina Mall. Ride alone or with someone special in this one-of-a-kind zip-line adventure.

How long should I stay in Dubai to make the best of my visit?

Depending on the kind of things you want to do and your budget, anywhere from 3 days to 7 days makes for an ideal time to explore the city. You can check out our carefully curated 3 day Dubai itinerary and 7 day Dubai itinerary .

What are the things I should avoid doing in Dubai?

Some of the things you must definitely avoid in Dubai are cross-dressing, drinking in public, bringing pork into the country, public display of affection and eating in public during the month of Ramadan. For a more exhaustive list of things that you must avoid in Dubai, head here .

Can I drink the tap water in Dubai?

Tap water in the UAE has been rated safe to drink but only as long as tanks and pipes storing and bringing water to the home are clean and in good condition. However, bottled mineral water is better preferred over tap water.

Is there anyway I can budget my Dubai trip?

You can foresee the average costs for your Dubai trip by using the budgetyourtrip tool.

How much is the customary tip in Dubai?

While most restaurants add service charge on the final bill, it is still common among most diners in Dubai to tip the service staff. A figure between 10 - 15% is customary, but this is dependent on the quality of service.

Can I hail an Uber in Dubai?

Yes! You can hail an Uber in Dubai or use the official city taxis (Dubai Taxis Corporation). Taxis fares in Dubai are cheap when compared to western cities and drivers are known to be courteous with reasonable English. The best way to know the fare for the official city taxis would be to download the DTC app and type in your origin and destination .

Is Dubai safe for solo women travelers?

Dubai is one of the safest places to travel in the world, and naturally safe for solo women travelers as well. A majority of the places are well lit after dark and police patrolling is well in place. Here's a quick guide to traveling solo in Dubai that will answer all your questions!

What are the video calling services allowed in Dubai?

All Voice over Internet Protocol (VoIP) services like Whatsapp, Viber, Skype and FaceTime that allow free calling via an internet connection, are banned in the UAE. Note, their messaging platforms are permissible.

Botim is the only VoIP service that is legal in Dubai. It is a paid service and is integrated with your SIM card. It costs AED 50/Month and provides unlimited voice and video calls. To know more about Botim head here .

Do tourists need alcohol license Dubai? 

Tourists to Dubai can buy their liquor at any of the 17 designated outlets of Mercantile and Marketing International (MMI), an authorized retailer of alcohol and issuer of liquor licenses to residents as well. This 30-day license is issued to tourists free of cost and only requires one to sign a form affirming their tourist status and an acknowledgment undertaking of the rules and regulations with regards to purchasing, transporting and consumption of alcohol in Dubai.

Know more about the Tourist alcohol license here .

See more Dubai. Save more money.

Save AED 20 on your first booking with Headout when you use promo code GODUBAI .

Lakshmi Menon

Born to parents bit by the wander bug, Lakshmi calls her love for travel "hereditary and habitual". Perpetually ensconced with a book in her hand and a mug of coffee in the other, she has been to over 15 countries in her 23 years of existence and is currently saving miles and money for her solo trip to Iceland. Always hustling towards the least trodden path, she has encountered some wonderful people during her escapades and if you ever meet her, she won't stop gushing about them.

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Dubai Travel Boom: Why Is It So Popular & Is It Worth Visiting?

• Destinations
• Hotels and Resorts
• Luxury Travel
• Middle East
• Types of Travel
• United Arab Emirates

Dubai has quickly (and mostly quietly) become one of the world’s most luxurious and sought-after travel destinations.

The Department on Economy and Tourism for Dubai reported around 17.15 million visitors passed through the desert city in 2023. For context, London welcomed around 38 million and Tokyo around 25 million.

So how did Dubai become such a global force in tourism ?

It all started with an idea from the Dubai Commerce and Tourism Promotion Board back in 1998. The goal? To create a high-class city for the world’s elite to rub elbows and unwind.

Only fifteen years after plans were hatched, headlines around the world were raving that the shiny new city of Dubai had welcomed over 13 million visitors.

Since then, the city has achieved many feats, from completing the world’s tallest building (The Burj Khalifa) to nabbing attention from Hollywood studios (we won’t talk about Sex & the City 2 ).

Thanks to incremental and focused efforts, Dubai has taken its place among the world’s classiest destinations. But if you’re still a little baffled about how we got here and whether Dubai actually meets the hype, you aren’t alone.

Let’s take a closer look at the Dubai travel boom, covering what there is to do in the city and whether it’s worth visiting.

A closer look at Dubai’s travel boom

As mentioned above, much of Dubai was built with tourism in mind.

Specifically, high-class tourism.

Despite the fact that the city sits in a largely inhospitable desert, you can find things like full-sized ski slopes, scuba diving reefs, underwater theatrical shows, and similarly unfathomable spectacles.

But it’s not solely about the spectacle—it’s about an ultra-lush and modern spectacle. Not only did the UAE want to build a city that tourists would gush over, but they wanted to appeal to a certain echelon of tourists.

Specifically, those with deep pockets.

Yes—Dubai has a historic district where you can explore the city’s history and identity. But this is usually a pretty short day trip experience for tourists.  The core focus for visitors is luxury shopping, not free tours.

What is there to do in Dubai?

Name-brand shopping abounds. The Dubai Mall is one of the most expensive shopping districts in the world with a long list of luxury brands.

Think: Bulgari, Karl Lagerfeld, Christian Louboutin, and many more.

Keep in mind that many luxury brands represented in Dubai come from the Middle East and Asia. In other words, Dubai isn’t only interested in meeting the brand interests of Westerners, but rich and wealthy vacationers from all across the world.

Aside from luxury shopping, visitors can also spend big on things like glamorous hotels , spa treatments. yacht tours, helicopter tours, hot air balloon experiences, PGA-caliber golf courses (or, more appropriately, LIV-caliber courses), and an almost endless list of fine dining options. As of 2023, Dubai is home to 86 Michelin-star restaurants.

There’s also a lot of emphasis on nightlife. However, I’m a little unconvinced about the nightlife.

The city is home to many big-name clubs with sparkler-heavy bottle service and tiered VIP areas. That sounds like a hellscape to me—but if you’re into the traditional clubbing experience, it’s probably an unforgettable experience.

What do travelers think of Dubai?

Clearly, Dubai wants to attract wealthy travelers who will open their wallets to its many experiences . That means that shoestring budget travelers, like backpackers or hostel-happy wanderers, are pretty much immediately priced out.

But what do travelers with funds think of the city?

Many report that they’re offered a high-class experience that’s well worth the value. In other words, the prices aren’t too exorbitant, while the level of service, cleanliness, and convenience is unmatched.

For those who aren’t shy about spending, Dubai meets the hype.

In addition to next-level service, visitors also report feeling very safe and that they were treated politely by everyone they encountered, from taxi drivers to receptionists. Apparently, even the airport offers a fulfilling experience.

Oh, and people also seem to love the guaranteed sunshine. Based on the many reviews I’ve read, it almost seems like a top-tier resort experience spread across a whole city.

Is Dubai worth visiting?

Dubai is geared toward wealthy visitors who want access to world-class shopping, dining, and nightlife. But there’s a lot more than what meets the eye here.

While I’ve never personally considered heading to Dubai, there’s a reason it’s remained one of the world’s top tourist destinations for so long.

To be honest, that uncertainty is part of the appeal for me. I want to see whether my expectations are accurate, and whether it’s been fair to write off Dubai.

However, it’s not something I’d be willing to fork over thousands to find out.

So, here’s my verdict: go to Dubai if you have the money . It seems like a place where what you spend directly correlates to how much fun you have.

Tay Belgeri is a content writer with global experience. She writes for brands like Santander Bank, PokerStars, DraftKings, and OddsChecker. Her affiliate posts have appeared on AP News, Ranker, Notion, OK! Magazine, and other major sites. She writes about a variety of cultural topics (from sports to high fashion) but specializes in travel. Originally from Missouri, she now lives in Spain. In a few years, she will have spent more time outside the US than inside it. Career highlights: • Selected to present research by the National Council of Undergraduate Research (2014) • Acquired grants for New York City’s first Indigenous Peoples Day Celebration (2015) • Joined OddsChecker’s US Launch team (2020) • Shortlisted for the Foreword INDIES (2021, 2023)

The 10 best things to do in Dubai

P repare to be overwhelmed with superlatives while in Dubai – an emirate defined by its ability to evolve and astound. Even regular visitors will be tempted by something new every time they arrive – a record-breaking museum perhaps, or maybe an entire hipster neighbourhood that seemingly sprang up overnight. So, tick the must-dos off your list – attempting to squeeze all 2,722 feet (828 metres) of the Burj Khalifa into one photograph and sailing a traditional abra (wooden boat) across Dubai Creek, for example – but don’t ever think you’ve done Dubai, because Dubai is always on a mission to outdo itself. Here are the best things to do in Dubai.

For further Dubai inspiration, see our guides to the city's best  hotels ,  restaurants ,  shopping ,  nightlife  and  family-friendly things to do . 

Find things to do by area

Al fahidi historical district, jumeirah and umm sequim, zabeel park, downtown dubai, al barsha south.

• Dubai Marina and Bluewaters Island 

Follow your tastebuds in the souks

Dubai's souks are best explored on a guided walking tour and the most locally renowned of them are hosted by Frying Pan Adventures. Founder Arva Saleem Ahmed and her growing team curate culinary walks peppered with Arabian, Indian and Iranian food tastings, while covering the 'Old Dubai' essentials of being ferried across Dubai Creek on a cheap-as-chips abra, shopping at the spice and textile souks and exploring the historic Al Fahidi neighbourhood. The 'Dubai Souks and Creekside Food Walk' lasts around four hours and is the most comprehensive tour offered. 

Insider’s tip: Tours require a minimum of four guests. Bring your own earphones for the audio guide and wear comfortable walking shoes.

Contact: fryingpanadventures.com

Nearest metro: Sharaf DG

Enjoy water sports in the Arabian Sea

The Arabian Sea is a stunning azure playground serviced by several equipment rental companies. Hire stand-up paddle boards or kayaks on beautiful Kite Beach at Kite N Surf, where you can also learn the art of kitesurfing, or pick up a jet ski at JetSki Dubai at Umm Sequim. The company offers guided tours along the shoreline, as well as flyboarding and parasailing sessions.

Insider’s tip: If you want to feel like a celebrity at sea and have fellow tourists stop to take your photo, hire JetSki Dubai’s jet car, which works like a jet ski but looks like an Aston Martin. "Shagadelic, Baby!" 

Contact: kitensurf.ae / jetskiingdubai.com

Get the picture at Dubai Frame

At ground level in Zabeel Park, circumnavigate Dubai Frame to see the contrasting faces of this emirate – ‘Old Dubai’ is framed from one direction and ‘New Dubai’ from the other. Inside, it’s essentially a footbridge with a glass floor, 500 feet (150 metres) up in the sky, giving guests a vertiginous thrill as they look down and a 360-degree view of Dubai as they look out.

Insider’s tip: Once you’ve seen the old and the new through the Frame, visit the Future Dubai Gallery on the mezzanine floor to find out what tomorrow looks like for this fast-paced metropolis.

Contact:   dubaiframe.ae

Nearest metro:  Max

Book tickets

Light-up nocturnal outings at Dubai Garden Glow

As romantic as it is family-friendly, Dubai Garden Glow is the world’s largest glow-in-the-dark theme park featuring 10 million energy-saving bulbs in fanciful illuminated formations of giant coral reefs filled with delightful Disney-esque jelly fish, exotic birds perched in gilded aviaries, Seventies-worthy disco tunnels and glistening models of local landmarks. There are also 100 animatronic dinosaurs for budding paleontologists to walk among.

Insider’s tip: Cool down at the on-site Ice Park where 5,000 tonnes of ice have been fashioned into a small airplane, a winged horse and carriage and a miniature Burj Khalifa, among other things.

Contact: dubaigardenglow.com

Tick off the major Downtown highlights

The world’s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, neighbours the sprawling, designer label-filled Dubai Mall and the dancing Dubai Fountain, and between them they share a patch of Downtown Dubai famed for prestige, evident right down to the parking lots lined with Maseratis and Lamborghinis. Sheikh Mohammed, Ruler of Dubai, owns a penthouse in the tower, which also houses the  At the Top observation deck  and  Armani Hotel Dubai .

Insider’s tip:  The Dubai Fountain is best viewed by night when laser and light shows accompany the music. Also note that the Dubai Mall is equivalent in size to 50 football pitches, so you should wear comfortable shoes.

Contact: burjkhalifa.ae ; thedubaimall.com

Nearest metro: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall

Price: £-£££

Book tickets: Burj Khalifa ; Dubai Mall

Enjoy an alternative night at the opera

Dhow-shaped in a nod to traditional Arabian ships, the 2,000-seat Dubai Opera opened with a promise to bring cultural diversity to entertainment in the region, and delivers shows that range from music by Morcheeba and comedy by Al Murray (The Pub Landlord) to ballets of the Swan Lake variety and the BBC Proms. Plus, Antipodean super-chef Sean Connolly has a seafood and steak brasserie on the top floor.

Insider’s tip: Head to the nearby  Armani/Ristorante  for refined Italian pre-theatre menus, served from 5.30pm at AED 250 for two courses and AED 300 (£64) for three.

Contact: dubaiopera.com

Nearest metro:  Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall

See 100 million flowers in one day at Dubai Miracle Garden

Imagine a universe made of flowers and you’re picturing Dubai Miracle Garden, winner of a Guinness World Record for the largest floral arrangement ever created, which takes the form of a 70-metre-long A380 airplane resplendent in a rainbow of petals. Stroll beneath heart-shaped trellises swollen with petunias along the Avenue of Love, the most photographed display at the attraction, and see houses, windmills and even a Mercedes, all repurposed as planters for marigolds, roses, calendulas and tulips.

Insider’s tip: The Butterfly Garden, enclosed and aflutter with myriad species, is popular with children; visit during school hours if you want the winged beauties all to yourself.

Contact: visitdubai.com

Dubai Marina and Bluewaters Island

Spend an afternoon at the beach jbr.

At The Beach JBR, prove to the kids you’ve still got what it takes to make it around an inflatable floating assault course at sea (Aqua Park, AED 150/£30 for adults; AED 120/£25 for children), then refuel at one of the many restaurants on the strip. As night falls, potter among the market stalls, where you can learn how to create bottled sand art and pick up customised flip-flops.

Insider’s tip: Try the succulent peppered clams at Aprons & Hammers , but note that restaurants at The Beach don’t serve alcohol unless they’re part of a hotel complex.

Contact: thebeach.ae

Nearest metro:  DMCC

Jump out of a plane

You’ll never forget Dubai after you’ve seen it hurtling towards you as you fall from the sky. This is the feeling you’ll experience on a tandem jump with SkyDive Dubai. Planes take off from the runway located on the shores of Dubai Marina, ascending above Palm Jumeirah before instructors strap on their passengers and coax them out the door. If you’re brave enough to try it, you’ll be replaying the GoPro video for years. 

Insider’s tip: If the thought of jumping out of a plane makes your stomach do somersaults, take SkyDive Dubai’s less queasy two-seat gyrocopter aircraft ride with a qualified pilot instead. No jumping required. 

Contact: skydivedubai.ae

Set your heart racing at supersized Dubai Parks and Resorts

Mix international movie park Motiongate with the world’s first football theme park, throw in a Polynesian-themed hotel and a Legoland hotel and theme park, and what have you got? Dubai Parks and Resorts. This multiplex of amusement offers high-speed rides, a village of Smurfs, theatre productions and parades, and a primary-coloured world made of kids’ building blocks.

Insider’s tip:  If your clan is mad about parks, check into the on-site  Lapita Hotel  and receive unlimited multi-park access and complimentary Q-fast to Motiongate for the duration of your stay.

Contact: dubaiparksandresorts.com

Nearest metro: UAE Exchange (from here a taxi will cost around AED 40/£8)

Price: ££-£££

How we choose

Every attraction and activity in this curated list has been tried and tested by our destination expert, to provide you with their insider perspective. We cover a range of budgets and styles, from world-class museums to family-friendly theme parks – to best suit every type of traveller. We update this list regularly to keep up with the latest openings and provide up to date recommendations.

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Which Is The Best Luxury Hotel: Conrad Dubai Or Waldorf Astoria Palm?

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1. Best Location: Conrad Dubai Or Waldorf Astoria Palm

2. style & character, 3. beach & pools, 5. the club floor, 8. conclusion.

Conrad Dubai and Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah are both Hilton hotels in Dubai. Below, we outline which is best.

Conrad Dubai is situated in the heart of the city’s financial and commercial district on Sheikh Zayed Road, providing excellent access to key business hubs, the Dubai World Trade Centre, and major attractions like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall. It’s ideal for business travelers and those who want to be in the midst of the city’s vibrant atmosphere.

The Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah is located on the far edge of the iconic Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree. The resort is positioned on the crescent of the Palm, offering stunning panoramic views of the Dubai skyline, Dubai Marina, the Arabian Gulf, and the Palm itself.

The Waldorf is the most secluded of these three resorts and offers a peaceful and exclusive environment. It’s about a 30-minute drive to Downtown Dubai and major attractions such as the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, and it’s a slightly longer ride to Dubai airport. The resort is closer to attractions on the Palm, such as Atlantis The Palm and its Aquaventure Waterpark.

For a resort experience, there is no comparison. Pick Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, which has spectacular views. The iconic Palm Jumeirah is a pain to get on and off if you want to explore beyond the resort, so be prepared for long traffic jams at busy times. The Conrad is more convenient for business in Dubai; otherwise, the Waldorf is the better resort choice.

The Waldorf Astoria should be a beautiful hotel. Inside, everything is pearly white and oatmeal, and when you look out onto the grounds, the palm trees and greenery offer a green fuzz at the bottom of your eyeline, which is particularly lovely in the crazy heat in Dubai. Beyond the greenery is a lovely beach with views, and within the greenery is a family and an adult pool, both of which are stylish and modern.

Conrad is a city hotel with a freeform pool located between skyscrapers and no beach. The look feels business-orientated. This is not a resort hotel and lacks the beauty of the Waldorf.

We compare the Waldorf to Four Seasons and Ritz-Carlton separately as all three are some of the most luxurious hotels in Dubai.

Best Hotel To Book: Four Seasons, Waldorf Astoria Or Ritz-Carlton Dubai?

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The Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah, and The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, are all luxurious five-star resorts located in Dubai. We outline which is best below. To be completely confusing, there are actually two Four Seasons hotels in Dubai. Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre which is more of a conference hotel and does not have a beach, and Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach which is more of a resort hotel and is the one we are focusing in on for this comparison.

Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah has a luxurious and really good beach and a great pool experience with stunning views of the Palm Jumeirah and Dubai skyline. This comes in at number two. There is a fun decked area between the gardens and the pools, which is shaded by palms and is a wonderful place to enjoy a cocktail in a lounger.

The Conrad has a freeform pool surrounded by greenery and skyscrapers beyond. The resort experiences at these hotels are incomparable. The Waldorf wins hands down.

The Waldarf Astoria has The Pearl Club Lounge, a room high up at the top of the hotel with stunning views and is decorated in pearly whites. It is available to guests who book Pearl Club rooms, Pearl Club suites, Waldorf Astoria suites, Chairman’s Suite, or Royal Suite. Pearl Club access can also be purchased as an add-on for guests staying in standard rooms and suites at AED 450 د.إ‎ per person. The lounge is open daily from 8:00 am – 9:30 pm.

This lounge is one of the best club lounges in Dubai and is fairly traditional in design. It has plenty of comfy sofas, cafe seating, and a lovely terrace for fresh air and sunsets. It definitely feels like a luxurious space, and the food offerings match the luxurious feel.

From 8:00 am – 10:30 am, breakfast is served with freshly prepared egg dishes such as Eggs Benedict and a large cold buffet. There is more choice downstairs in the Mezzerie restaurant, but the Club Lounge is much less hectic and chaotic. Throughout the day, non-alcoholic drinks and coffee are available. Afternoon tea is served with sandwiches and sweets from 3:00 pm – 5:00 pm. There is a cocktail hour in the evening from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm with beer, wine, sparkling wine, and cocktails. There is also a buffet with soup, cheeses, meats, fresh rolls, salads, sandwiches, and canapés – enough to fill you up.

The Conrad Dubai also has an executive club lounge, but it’s not as good as the Waldorf Astoria club lounge, one of Dubai’s best club lounges .

Best Executive Or Club Lounges At Hotels In Dubai

We have reviewed hotels in Dubai, UAE, with the best club or executive lounges by the beach, downtown, and at the airport DBX to help you decide on the best choice, whether you are traveling as a couple, a family, or as a single business traveler. By reviewing each of these club lounges, in turn, I conclude which hotel club lounge comes in at the top and which hotel I would select as having the best club lounge in Dubai.

The Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah is usually much more expensive than the Conrad Dubai.

Our luxury travel concierge offers a brilliant deal at all these resorts. We can gift you priority room upgrades, hotel credit, free breakfast, and more. You also get your usual loyalty points when you book via our agency.

If you’re traveling for a holiday, the Hilton to pick in Dubai is the Waldorf and not the Conrad. The Conrad is a solid city business hotel but is not very fun for leisure guests.

Copyright Luxury Travel Diary 2014 - 2024. Duplication outside of luxurytraveldiary.com is forbidden.

Image © slava296 / Adobe Stock.

Note: Benefits & upgrades subject to availability. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing. Terms & conditions apply. Enquire for more information. Benefits offered correct at the time of writing but may be amended at discretion of the vendor. Posts may be sponsored by the proprietor or brand being appraised. All opinions remain our own & are in no way influenced.

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Dubai   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Adél Békefi | Getty Images

Best Times To Visit Dubai

The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March. Weather-wise, Dubai really only experiences two seasons: hot and hotter. During the winter months, the city sees blue skies and primo beach weather. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect plenty of company on Jumeirah's beaches. You can escape the crowds if you visit during the summer months, but be prepared for triple-digit temps and high humidity levels (it's only a "dry" heat in the winter).

Visiting Dubai during Islamic holidays is a special experience, but note that dates for these holidays change annually, based on the lunar cycle. The major Islamic holidays in Dubai include the holy month of Ramadan, Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha (Feast of Sacrifice), Hijri (Islamic new year) and the Prophet Mohammad's birthday. An Islamic calendar can be found here , but it is important to understand that the exact date(s) may not be confirmed until a moon phase is sighted by the moon-sighting committee to call the official start of these holidays.

Keep in mind: Islamic holidays may impact business hours during your trip. Hours may be shorter and the nightlife scene may also be a bit quieter compared to other months of the year. Between sunrise and sunset during Ramadan, Muslims do not eat, drink or smoke. The dates for Ramadan are variable since they follow the lunar calendar.

Weather in Dubai

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit Dubai

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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