one day trip to dubai

The perfect 1 day in Dubai itinerary: Our 24 hours in the city

What can you do in Dubai in 24 hours, you ask? Well, we’re the right people to answer this question. Based on our vast experience of seven trips to the United Arab Emirates (UAE) — two of which were layovers, as well as two all-inclusive packages, and three trips we’ve planned ourselves top to bottom — we know our way around the Dubai’s most notable sights.

Keep in mind that this article can also work if you have a two or three day stay in Dubai. Combine a few itineraries we’re going to mention and you have yourself a fabulous stopover in Dubai!

Article contents

• First of all, is one day enough???
• 15 Dubai’s landmarks we suggest including in your list
• 5 one-day-in-Dubai itineraries for you to choose from

Where to eat?

• Where to stay?
• How to get around?

Tips for visiting Dubai in one day

Is 1 day enough for dubai important things to know.

In all honesty, is one day enough when you’re traveling somewhere new? Obviously not! Even if it’s some remote village with a post office and a dirty puddle for a lake, you cannot get the vibe of the place right if you only spend 24 hours here.

And then there’s Dubai — the city where almost every attraction is fighting for the place in the Guinness World Records and where new spots are popping up faster than mushrooms after the rain. A great one day trip here can seem downright impossible to plan!

With all this in mind, you can try, however, to see as much of the notable sights as you can in Dubai and make every hour count. To do that, you have to have a clear itinerary to avoid disappointment of coming all the way to the place only to find out it’s closed or simply not worth it.

When traveling to the Emirates, you have to first and foremost choose the right time for your trip. We covered this topic to the best of our abilities in our article here . But if you want to get the gist of it, here it is:

• Months from October till April are the best for a comfortable vacation in the Emirates: It’s not that hot, and you can spend time outside without the danger of dying from exposure.
• Months from May to September are literal hell in Dubai, and the only fun you’ll have will be within the limits of air-conditioned spaces. Thankfully, there are a ton of those in the Emirate (don’t forget about the largest mall where you can spend days in, literally).

So, the question remains: What to do in Dubai in one day in 2024? You definitely wouldn’t want to travel far, which means desert safari and the Miracle Garden (world’s largest natural flower garden) are irrelevant to the plan.

The obvious choice tends to be a city tour, where a guide takes all the stress from creating your own itinerary and provides you with a great tried-and-tested one. You’ll find an endless array of the best Dubai’s tours as well as the admission tickets on the GetYourGuide or Viator tour services.

Obviously, there are a few tours that you can choose from, depending on your needs:

• 🚶 A walking tour (perfect for young couples),
• 🚌 a bus tour (great if you’re traveling with children or people who don’t appreciate walking a lot),
• 🚤 and even a speedboat tour (wonderful for adrenaline-seekers).

Do you want to have a little more freedom when it comes to your one day trip to Dubai? Well, you’re in luck: We’re here to give you a list of places most worth your time, energy, and money, and the way to combine them into one cohesive itinerary that you won’t regret following!

A perfect day in Dubai — what to see?

Before we give our planned out itineraries , we feel like it’s important to know a little about the places that are worth visiting. It’s true that Dubai is perfect for a quick layover, so we feel like you shouldn’t waste you precious hours on attractions that are subpar or in any way not live up to the hype around them.

Here are a few places that you can look into when planning your trip to Dubai: Plenty of them complement each other beautifully, so feel free to mix and match each spot according to your previous experience and hopes for the emotions you want to get out of your stay here.

Burj Khalifa

A crown jewel of Dubai — Burj Khalifa — is known world-wide as the tallest building and free-standing structure. It’s an obvious choice for Emirates visitors when met with a question of what to do in Dubai in one day in 2024.

Why? Well, apart from the impressive accolades, must-see landmark status and being one of the Insta locations in Dubai , the tower’s highest ranking (both literally and figuratively) can soon be challenged by one of the many current projects that “shoot for the stars” as well.

Thankfully, no matter the heights those future buildings are planning to reach, Burj Khalifa is guaranteed to stay one of the most popular attractions in Dubai (and, who are we kidding, in the world in general). If you only have 24 hours in Dubai and want to get the most all-encompassing views of the Emirate, then choosing one of the many of Burj Khalifa’s viewpoints should be your top priority for the day.

While the tower spans over more than 800 meters, not all of the floors can be accessed by the ordinary folk. Don’t get discouraged though, there are still a few amazing options here to enjoy stunning 360-degree views of Dubai:

• The “At the Top” viewing deck , located on two floors of Burj Khalifa (124 and 125), is the most obvious choice for a traveler who wants to get crazy views while still somewhat sticking to a budget (even though you’ll still have to shell out almost $50 for the experience).
• “Sky” deck , set a few levels higher (148 floor) is an option that is perfect for the people who crave all of their experience to have a “premium” flair to them. Even though the views do not differ that much (and you also get access to lower levels), it’s worth splurging out on if you want to have less people in your shots of Dubai’s grand skyline.

Tickets to Burj Khalifa >>

• If you’re not exactly prone to vertiginousness and crave the ultimate bird’s-eye views of Downtown Dubai, paired nicely with a high-scale dinner experience, then The Lounge (located on level 152 through 154) is just what the doctor ordered! Uninterrupted views and scrumptious food — does it get more VIP than that? Well, when it comes to spending funds in Dubai, the sky is the limit: You can get a simple Lounge access with a light lunch for $200 , or you can add a Porsche transfer and foie gras (and eclairs) as gourmet menu items to the mix and spend a whopping $800 for the experience .

Choose your own Burj Khalifa adventure on GetYourGuide which is an authorized seller. And don’t forget to catch one more mandatory (in our mind) thing — a Dubai Fountain show. Depending on the viewing point, this stunning music, water, and light performance can be one of the best things to do in Dubai for free. Would you believe us that tons of tourists flock to the closest Apple store (!) to get their front-row “seats” for the show? While there are a few mid-day sessions, most of the fun happens at nighttime. Dubai Fountain evening show is on every 30 minutes, from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. If you ask us, it’s the perfect way to end your Dubai one day itinerary.

Whew, we’re getting too ahead of ourselves: There’s so many things to do in Dubai in just one day, so let’s focus on those, before actually choosing the day’s end activity!

If you’re traveling to Dubai with an extra large suitcase half-empty “just in case”, then beeline straight to Dubai Mall as soon as your feet hit the Emirate ground. Conveniently located not too far from Burj Khalifa, this absolute mammoth of a structure is a heaven for shopaholics! Dubai Mall is considered to be the largest mall in the world, and how can you not a pay a visit to the place of this position?

One might wonder why to put going to a mall on your one day in Dubai itinerary, but the answer is simple. Especially in summer months, the temperatures outside can reach completely unbearable levels, leaving you to stick to large air-conditioned spaces, which Dubai Mall definitely is. What’s more, there are so many things to do here besides shopping! Yes, the retail therapy part is a prominent one, with stores like Bloomingdale’s and Galeries Lafayette begging you to spend the last of your hard-earned cash on a new Balenciaga bag or Chanel ballet flats while you’re here, but that’s not all.

Dubai Mall is the ultimate family destination where Dubai Aquarium (one of the largest indoor aquariums in the world; tickets cost 150 AED / $41) and Underwater Zoo provide ample entertainment options for both kids and adults. If your little ones aren’t big fans of “looking at things” (although we highly doubt that the aquarium’s very own King Croc can leave them unimpressed for long), the mall also houses an indoor ice rink (90–110 AED / $24.5–$30), which is perfect for every active rugrat in need of burning off extra energy. Trust us, after a day at Dubai Mall, both you and your children will sleep like logs!

Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah is the obvious choice for tourists who want a humble mix of unique luxury and easy-on-the-pocket attractions (although the island isn’t at all budget-friendly in general). Even if it’s your first time in the Emirate, you’ve probably seen snippets of the island online. The unforgettable date palm-shaped construction with a circular frame around, it has long been the talk of the town online.

There’s no entry fee to the island itself (hello, there are people residing in the homes on the branches), but if you want to get the best views of the Palm, you’ll have to pay to up a little. The View at the Palm observation deck ($19), located by the base of the island’s “trunk”, inside the tall Palm Tower , is the ultimate destination for sprawling views of the island (and also the stunning Dubai Marina skyline on the other side). All in all, it covers the bulk of places in the question of what to see in Dubai in one day, as you can witness them from the 52th floor of the tower.

Side note: Keep in mind that you can always get even higher over the Palm Jumeirah. The majority of Dubai’s helicopter tours have their base here, and the first thing you get to see as you soar into the air is the elaborate structure of the island.

But what if you want to go to the very end of the Palm, its top part? Well, there’s always an option to book a suite at the world-famous Atlantis Hotel . But it’s otherworldly expensive, and not something accessible to an average Joe. So, another alternative would be going all the way to the end of the palm’s tree trunk, to the Pointe , set right across the bay from the Atlantis Hotel. What is the Pointe, exactly? It’s an up-and-coming area of the Palm, full of high-end boutiques, world-class restaurants and ample entertainment options.

• Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Meandering around the souk proves to be a worthy endeavor, both in a matter of buying presents for your loved ones back home (a short stay in Dubai doesn’t excuse the lack of souvenirs, we all know that) and also in having the absolute best time of your life!

Despite the look and feel of a traditional souk, the space seems to be leisurely and unhurried. Take in the wonderful Arabic architecture (earth-toned everything with multi-level clusters of constructions), the palm-lined net of canals (that could give Venice a run for its money in no time) and, drumroll please…. The views of the iconic sail-shaped hotel, the pearl of Dubai coast — Burj Al Arab !

If you’re tired of all the walking among the peacock-colored stalls filled to the brim with goods and trinkets, you can either:

• Pop into one of more than 50 (!) restaurants and cafes scattered around the premises.
• Or rest your feet in a more elaborately entertaining way by going on a boat ride on the canal. Traditional abra boats (imagine Arabic-style gondolas) will take you on a picturesque ride on serene waterways that will open you up to new views on every turn. Sit back, relax, and take in as much sights as you can!
• Dubai Marina

Our personal favorite Dubai neighborhood! Located right on the coast, it is a wonderful mix of urban sights and a beach getaway . Always fun, always teeming with tourists and residents, and practically overflowing with entertainment options, this is the mecca for both the Bohemian crowd and the laid-back traveler types.

Get a taste of the UAE beaches here without actually committing to a full-on beach day in one of a couple spots we will put on the list next (keep reading, they’re a treat)! Apart from the lively shoreline, another part of Dubai Marina is super modern and metropolitan. This doesn’t mean, however, that you won’t see anything but high-rise buildings as you stroll among Dubai Marina streets. Turn your gaze to Bluewaters Island , for example — another Dubai’s man-made island created just off-shore of the Marina. The star of the area is the gigantic Ain Dubai — world’s biggest Ferris wheel that can be seen from virtually every point in the neighborhood. More on this peculiar island later!

Side note: Ain Dubai is temporarily closed, so even though you won’t get to experience the ride to the top (we wouldn’t advice you taking it anyway: It’s way too slow, and you don’t have that much time if you only have 24 hours in Dubai!), you can still marvel at its sheer magnitude as you stand below it.

To get the full taste of Dubai Marina, you will have to carve out a little more time for your Emirate vacation. The majority of entertainment options here are pretty time-consuming. Take yacht tours, for example — you don’t want to rush the experience of looking out on Dubai Marina coastline from the water! Who are we to deprive you of this joy, however? Try and fit in a breakfast rendezvous on a luxury yacht, and let the whole world wait!

Get sea-sick easily but still want to grab a bite of something scrumptious to eat? Not a problem! No matter what time of day it is, you can easily find a place that serves delicious food in Dubai Marina (after all, we can’t think of a place in the Emirate with such high concentration of food establishments as Dubai Marina). It’s easy to get lost in the head-spinning variety of choices, so we narrowed them down to three spots you have to try out first if you have a limited time in Dubai. Here they are:

• Angel Cakes (Bluewaters Island) — trendy, all-organic, wellness-inspired café. What does it mean? Think healthy brunches, refined sugar-free and gluten-free desserts (49 AED / $13), tasty coffee (25–35 AED / $6.8–$9.5) and angel superfood bar (which, as we’ve come to find out, is a selection of marzipan bars mixed with supplements). Even if you’re not a GOOP-centric person and if Gwyneth Paltrow would 100% judge your diet choices, this place is still worth a shot — get their carrot cake and thank us later!
• Roasters Specialty Coffee House (Dubai Marina) — mecca for coffee connoisseurs, their pure grade high-quality coffee blends (30 AED / $8) are guaranteed to blow your socks off! Their cold brew is simply out of this world, especially when paired with one of their delectable breakfast options: Whether you’re a berry loaded acai bowl or a simple cheesy omelet kinda guy or gal, you will find something that will rock your tastebuds (in the best way possible).
• Operation: Falafel (Dubai Marina) — self-proclaimed best casual dining experience, and we’re not here to challenge this title. Their falafels, hummus, labneh, manaaesh, as well as all kinds of wraps and platters deserve all possible awards! Grab yourself a refreshing Laban Ayran and build-your-own sliders or wraps box (20–25 AED / $5–$6.8) and you’ll be all set for the day!

When the question of what should I not miss in Dubai arises during October through May, then heading to one of the best beaches of Dubai — La Mer — seems like an obviously great idea. When the sun rays are finally not trying to kill you (or at least make you all red and peely all over), then getting an authentic Dubai beach experience should be at the top of your day agenda!

Currently under a massive reconstruction, the beach itself and its coastal areas are getting pampered to the max. To see the destination in all its prime and glory though, you will have to wait until the first quarter of 2024. While some businesses get a much needed makeover, others, sadly, seem to be shut down completely: The crowd favorite Laguna Waterpark has closed its doors in March.

Side note: Wild Wadi Waterpark , located in Jumeirah, can be a great alternative to the now closed Laguna Waterpark.

The South part of La Mer is almost done with the renovations. You can already go out and explore the premises, see what’s new the area has to offer. If you get hungry in the process, we suggest popping in either one of these wonderful establishments:

• Comptoir 102 — what the kids these days are calling a concept store, this healthy café is set on bringing you the ultimate wellness experience: You can kick back with a … no, not beer, obviously, but a “vitality” shot of apple cider vinegar (18 AED / $5), chased with some detoxifying water (29 AED / $8) and a bite of something protein-rich and healthy (60–80 AED / $16–$22). Take in the rustic surroundings, and then stroll around the small adjacent boutique. There’s everything, starting from home goods, to jewelry and cleaning supplies. You can even stock up on sunscreen, before heading back out under the unforgiven Dubai sun.
• 11 Woodfire — a Michelin-star restaurant well-loved for all things grilled. Their open kitchen and outdoor grill bring the guests in and don’t let them leave without eating their weight in Woodfire’s mouth-watering dishes. Seafood, meat cuts, vegetables — everything is cooked over open fire, with different kinds of wood (be it oak, chicory, or some other sort) adding a distinctive taste to the dishes (from 80 AED to 400 AED / $22–$110). This is the place to be if you’re simply ravenous after a full day of walking and swimming. Don’t come here too early, otherwise you’ll be too full to keep exploring the area!

Kite Beach has lots of bragging rights in contrast with other beaches in Dubai — it has a super long (and wide) stretch of white pristine sand, a nice boardwalk running alongside the beach area, and a pretty developed infrastructure (don’t forget tons of cafes and restaurants nearby).

A perfect spot to start your one day in Dubai right: Get up at the crack of dawn (before the sun actually has a chance to get all riled up and relentlessly hot), and head on over to Kite Beach. What does one do here this early in the morning? Well, it’s the place to squeeze in some physical activity to get your body ready for the day ahead. Swim, run, bike, work out at the designated gym area — whatever floats your boat.

If, however, you like to start your day with something more adrenaline-inducing (so that you can skip your morning coffee altogether), Kite Beach is the mecca of all kinds of extreme-ish sports: Kite surfing, paddleboarding, water skiing, you name it — they got it!

Now, obviously such a strenuous physical activity requires a substantial amount of fuel. Thankfully, Kite Beach has a lot of great food options to choose from. To make your life easier, we’ve narrowed the list down to two places you absolutely must check out when spending time at Kite Beach:

• SALT Burger — iconic burger bar right by the beach, it combines indoor and outdoor seating with a touch of the restaurant’s humble beginnings as a take-out food truck. Our advice: Forget your diet and get as much food as you can. Their original juicy sliders (30–45 AED / $8–$12) are total flavor bombs, and soft-serve ice cream (25 AED / $7) will cool you off in no time. You can take care of your cholesterol levels somewhere else, this is the place for indulgence!
• HEAL — the name of the place paired with the restaurant’s interior can be summed up in one word: Bliss. Here, you can let all your troubles go as you’re comforted by clean white lines and terracotta details. Their menu is overflowing with the mouth-watering healthier takes of traditional dishes — starting from a simple coconut milk porridge (50 AED / $13.5) or a breakfast avo toasty (57 AED / $15.5), going all the way to grilled salmon and cooked-to-perfection seabass (75 AED / $20.5), your tastebuds are guaranteed to have a field day, while your body is also getting proper nutrition. Don’t forget to grab something from the HEAL Home collection before you leave: We’re sure your suitcase can fit a couple of candles; their scent is simply too good to pass up!

Al Fahidi Historical district

Located within Bur Dubai (the most historical area of the neighborhoods in Dubai ), Al Fahidi district is what you would imagine Dubai to look like dozens of years ago. Low-built structures, narrow streets (reminiscent of a medina), and, of course, important historical landmarks.

The usual destinations that call the name of Al Fahidi visitors are Dubai Museum (currently closed for restoration) and Al Farooq Mosque (one of the few mosques of the Emirate that are open to visitors).

Of course, you can simply walk along the Dubai Creek and call it a night: The vast boardwalk and calm creek waters are worthy of simple and content appreciation. But if your mind is in dire need of some exercise and you have a couple of hours to spare, head on over to the newest addition to Dubai’s Heritage Village: Al Shindagha Museum (50 AED / $13.5). Trust us, being not huge history fans ourselves, we still managed to have a good time here. We believe that it’s partly because of the mix of outside and inside spaces, and partly because the installations entertain all of your senses. Don’t believe us? Peek inside the museum’s Perfume House for a chance to “sniff your way” through the Emirate history.

Side note: Among other notable Al Shindagha’s pavilions, we can highlight the former home of the Emirate’s ruling family — Al Maktoum Residence . Built in a shape of a riad, with a big courtyard in the middle, it’s a fascinating spot to learn all about the choices the Arabic royals made to develop such a future-forward sprawling megapolis out of a tiny fishing village.

• Alserkal Avenue

Modern art lovers unite! Alserkal Avenue is the area that combines dozens of art spaces and businesses under one roof. Well, technically, not one roof: The Avenue is located in a former industrial compound and is spread across three rows of warehouses (90 buildings in total). What was once a marble factory has been converted to a net of galleries, restaurants, community areas, shops, artist studios, and other spots that can be pretty hard to define.

A hub of all things creative, there’s always something happening within its walls. Workshops, exhibitions, pop-ups, movie screenings, festivals and the like. It’s good to know that Alserkal Avenue is free to enter, but some activities may require a fee (it’s best to figure that out beforehand).

Our favorite destination in all the wide variety of Alserkal Avenue spaces is Leila Heller Gallery — its curators always have a great mix of works by both Western and Middle Eastern artists. Originating from the Land of the Free, the exhibition schedule of the gallery is very dynamic. Every time you come here you are guaranteed to witness some new unique contemporary works by artists from all over the world.

You can spend hours popping in and out of the complex’s spaces, grabbing a bite to eat from the many diversely unique eateries, or browsing the shelves of the shops. Home goods, jewelry, and even chocolate treats are bound to find their way into your hands, no matter how much you resist the temptation! While it’s highly unlikely that you’ll have the time to watch a movie if you only have 24 hours in Dubai, you can put this activity on the list of things to do in the Emirate next time you visit!

• Bluewaters Island

As we’ve probably mentioned before, Bluewaters Island is another man-made island sitting by the coast of the Emirate. Most people know of the island because of Ain Dubai (the largest Ferris wheel in the world) that crowns the area. While it’s true that this attraction is one of the most notable ones on the island, this area hasn’t become the ultimate residential and tourist destination thanks to the Ferris wheel only. There are hundreds of retail and entertainment spaces on the island, as well as sought-after dining establishments and welcoming community spaces.

If time permits, pop into Madame Tussauds wax museum located on Bluewaters Island. It’s a fun experience for both adults and children. Imagine you’re singing a duet with a wax figure of Lady Gaga or shaking the hand of David Beckham — an all-around wonderful time!

The main activity on the island, however, is simply strolling along its perimeter, taking in awe-striking views of water panoramas and grandiose JBR wall of high-rises. Bluewaters Island is a great little detour that you can do while in the general Dubai Marina area: It doesn’t take much time to explore it but the experiences you get are one-of-a-kind!

• The Green Planet

Located in one of Dubai’s busiest areas — City Walk — The Green Planet (140 AED / $38) is an essential stop for every Emirate visitor traveling with family. You can’t miss the building even if you wanted to: It looks like some elaborate art object, square in shape, with circular holes and geometrical lines all over; the core of the structure is a glass, see-through cylinder.

What is the Green Planet, exactly? It’s an educational and recreational facility that is focused on bringing knowledge about the natural world closer to an average person. A so-called biodome contains a completely enclosed ecosystem, full of more than 3,000 species of animals, birds, and plants. Walking inside the building, you feel like you’re transported thousands of miles away from the surrounding Arabian desert — deep into a rainforest. A giant artificial tree sits at the center of the attraction, with its many branches almost supporting the entire structure.

There are so many levels to this bio-diverse ecosystem: Each set with multimedia installations, but more importantly, the unique live inhabitants. Snakes, parrots, all sorts of fish families, and even a free-roaming sloth are the creatures you’re bound to run into once inside.

Tickets to Green Planet >>

Side note: To get a proper look of the whole attraction, go up to the suspension bridge and enjoy the bird’s-eye view of the jungle.

As for other attractions, kids will be ecstatic to learn that there are plenty of one-on-one encounters with the animals, as well as performances, educational programs, and a unique chance to play zookeeper for a day. Keep in mind your time constraints though, as it is easy to get lost inside for hours on end.

• Dubai Frame

Taking the time to go up and enjoy city views should always be at the top of the list of things to do in Dubai in 1 day. While Burj Khalifa might not be everybody’s cup of tea (the tickets tend to be quite pricey), the panorama is no less spectacular from one of another Dubai’s mammoth structures — Dubai Frame .

It looks like a giant knocked his colossal picture frame straight off the nightstand. The exterior’s elaborately carved golden sheen glistens under the sun at its peak, and the see-through blue-hued strips where the elevators go up and down to the viewing deck add a nice touch to the structure’s overall appearance.

Dubai Frame entry fee is mere 55 AED ($15) per adult and 30 AED ($8) per kid (3–12 years). For this humble price, you get a myriad of fun experiences! Among them are two exhibitions: One showcasing Dubai’s past, the other lifting the veil into the Emirate’s future.

Dubai Frame is one of the last (but definitely not least) of the Dubai’s attractions that we visited, and we cannot believe it took us so long to discover this wonderful gem!

Side note: A visit here works especially well with a combo visit to another attraction on our list — the world-famous Museum of the Future .

• Museum of the Future

Museum of the Future is one of the best places to visit in Dubai in 1 day if you love learning about the latest advancements and the ways we as humans technologically plan to shape the years to come.

Side note: It’s important to mention that you have to buy tickets to the museum (149 AED / $41) well beforehand, at least three weeks in advance, as the demand stays high year-round.

Why all the commotion around a simple museum? Well, Museum of the Future in Dubai is nothing but simple. Look at the building itself, for example — is it an eye? An egg? Who knows! The unique shape is accentuated with carved out Arabic writings, and the top-of-the-hill location plays a role of a pedestal.

But don’t you worry, the fun doesn’t stop once inside:

• The lobby (together with the giant spiral staircase) adds to the overall vibe of grandeur; and the flying (yes, literally flying) robo penguins and jellyfish (as well as a friendly, albeit earth-bound, robodog) help you spend your time waiting in line more cheerfully.
• The elevator, which is made to look like a rocket ship, takes you to the OSS Hope Station (in space, sort of).
• Once back on solid ground, you’re led into entrancing multimedia exhibitions: Some of them concerned with the preservation of species, some with the time we need to spend disconnected from technology, some with the latest technological gadgets and gizmos… It’s hard to sum up all the experiences, but if you want to learn more before going, we suggest you consult with our Museum of the Future article .

As always, don’t forget about the time: After all, even a simple viewing deck located inside the “hole” part of the structure can mesmerize you for hours on end. Keep to the schedule, people, we only have one day in Dubai!

• La Perle by Dragone

In all seriousness, do you ever wonder why the answers to the question of how to spend 1 day in Dubai rarely include catching an evening show? During our first visits to the Emirate we were puzzled by the lack of answers of how to finish the day if you only have 24 hours in the city. Think about it: You’re exhausted from walking around all day, and you need to squeeze in something wildly entertaining for a couple of hours before finally hitting pause on the day. In our mind, getting tickets to La Perle by Dragone seems like a good touch to end the day on a high note (tickets from 209 AED / $57).

It’s a live show playing inside theatre in Al Habtoor City , and can only be described as an explosion of flamboyance and artistry. Not to spoil or give anything away, but you’re guaranteed to be hypnotized by the talented acrobats, tightrope walkers, and other artists all taking part in a one-of-a-kind massive production. Imagine Middle Eastern-style performance reminiscent of Cirque du Soleil , but with the addition of the water element. It’s a sight that you definitely shouldn’t miss if you have the opportunity to witness it firsthand!

Tickets to La Perle by Dragon show >>

Beach clubs

Of course, there are always tourists craving something more than an ordinary beach outing (especially in Dubai, the Emirate that has the word “luxury” as its synonym). For this exact reason, might we present a couple of spots that take leisuring on the beach to a whole new level — Dubai’s very best beach clubs:

• Summersalt (admission ticket is 500 AED / $135) — one of the more exclusive spots in Dubai, this beach club is one of the best places to admire the iconic Burj Al Arab. The uninterrupted views of the hotel are worth every penny you spend here, in our opinion. The overall experience here is highlighted by the utmost best quality of food. We know that a strong menu isn’t something people usually base their beach club experiences on, but if you do decide to spend time inside Summersalt, make sure you’re hungry! A strong Japanese influence can be seen coursing throughout their menu options, but whatever you order, a food coma is guaranteed!

Side note: Keep in mind that if you want to spend your 1-day Dubai itinerary in style, Dubai’s beach clubs can often be seen partnering up with high-fashion brands. Summersalt is no exception: It has recently held a Jimmy Choo pop-up that enhanced the otherwise muted and nautical-hued amenities of the club with bright pops of fuchsia pink and bright orange, bringing a whole new vibe to both outdoor beachfront area and also indoor spaces. Pumps and high heels aren’t usually beach appropriate footwear, but this designer pop-up might say otherwise: In any case, keep your hand on the pulse of what Summersalt is going to do next. It’s all very exciting!

• Twiggy by La Cantine (sunbed is 200 AED / $55) — usually considered the best beach club in Dubai, Twiggy by La Cantine takes a unique approach to garnering the holidaymakers’ attention: The club’s location on Dubai Creek is a choice that can be most attributed to this spot’s fame and glory. While all the other beach clubs mostly set in Dubai Marina and Jumeirah neighborhoods have to fight for the beachgoers’ time, Twiggy sits back and lets the crowds found the space on their own accord. After all, it’s one of the only high-end beach clubs in the Deira district of Dubai. Upscale lounging amenities paired well with stunning views of the creek and a giant infinity pool are exactly the things that attract tourists by the handful. Try and make reservations in advance, this club is a slice of heaven that tons of people want to experience annually.

Side note: Since we’ve already brought up the topic of high fashion, we can’t help but mention the club’s recent collaboration with Ralph Lauren — who knew that the brand’s usually countryside- and horse riding-inspired vibe can be translated so beautifully into the heart of beach activities in Dubai? Twiggy’s visitors had a unique opportunity to see the brand’s newest collection and experience the nice touches that Ralph Lauren team brought to the club: Starting from the customized chaises and cabanas and passing over all the way to the food, with American classics being a huge hit!

Dubai itineraries for you to choose from

Now that you’re familiar with the elements you can fill your 1-day Dubai itinerary with, we’ve gone ahead and compiled five pre-planned guides (with a bonus one) that can help you spend a perfect day in Dubai without having to stop and think about your next destination.

Side note: If you cherish freedom in your travel days, feel free to mix and match the attractions in a way that best fits your agenda.

1. Classic “One-Day-In-Dubai” itinerary:

• Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall (observation deck is optional)
• Palm Jumeirah (the View at the Palm and the Pointe)
• Al Fahidi district (if you still have time and energy)
• Dubai Fountain show

🏨Accommodation option: 3* Citymax Al Barsha (from $95 per night)

2. Kid-friendly itinerary:

• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
• Wild Wadi Waterpark

🏨Accommodation option: 4* DoubleTree by Hilton – Al Barsha (from $100 per night)

3. A luxury itinerary:

• A helicopter tour
• Summersalt/Twiggy by La Cantine beach club
• Burj Khalifa VIP experience (with dinner)

🏨Accommodation option: 5* Atlantis The Royal (from $850 per night)

4. Museum Day in Dubai:

• Al Shindagha Museum

🏨Accommodation option: 4* Metropolitan Hotel Dubai (from $185 per night)

5. For people who believe they’ve already seen everything in Dubai:

• The View at the Palm or the newest viewpoint of SkyDeck Observatory
• Kite Beach Walk
• Dubai Design District

🏨Accommodation option: 5* Address Beach Resort (from $685 per night)

While we’ve already mentioned a few food spots that you can check out while near any of the beaches on our list, we couldn’t leave you hanging without adding a few more of our favorite city-bound establishments. After all, it wouldn’t be an article about things to do in one day in Dubai without the call to eat at as many cafes and restaurants as possible: Dubai’s food culture is clearly off-the-charts here!

Side note: For your convenience (we know how hard it is to navigate in a new foreign city), we’ve divided the places based on the landmarks that can be found nearby. You’re welcome!

Places near Burj Khalifa :

• Time Out Market — a tried-and-tested hotspot for top-notch culinary experiences, Time Out Market is set smack dab in the center of Downtown Dubai, covering a huge space inside the Souk Al Bahar . Apart from a rich and diverse program of shows and events, this place offers the best food Dubai has to offer, no matter the season: 20 food concepts provide a ton of choices to feel your plate with. Be it Greek, Portuguese, or Italian cuisine; a vine bar or a coffee shop that you’re looking for — you’re guaranteed to find it here.
• Wild & the Moon — in particular LA-like fashion, this vegan/vegetarian restaurant covers all the buzz words: Plant-based, gluten-free, local, organic, no additives, and even mylks… The food here is supposed to be good for both yourself and the planet: The ultimate guilt-free indulgence. In short, we recommend popping inside and getting one of their cold-pressed juices: They’re wonderfully refreshing in hot Emirate climate.
• Hoof café — the ultimate destination for coffee aficionados: Their single origin coffee is worth the entire trip to Dubai to begin with! But don’t stop there: Pair their signature coffee drinks with some of their delectable menu items. Depending what you’re in the mood for: Something simple, like banana bread or french toast, or something a little bit more experimental, like wagyu sandwich or baked Alaska dessert — you’re in for a treat!

Places near Burj Al Arab :

• 21grams Urban Balkan Bistro — an absolute gem of great food in Dubai, 21grams bistro brings all the delicacies of the Balkan region straight to the Emirates. You can expect giant sharing platters, as well as crazy delicious mains, like lamb shank or kebabs. Your sweet tooth will also be satisfied: You should always leave some room for Turkish coffee and baklava, that’s the rule!
• Your Address Coffee — we’ve been dreaming about this place’s toffee date cake ever since we’ve tried it! Your Address Coffee is a perfect spot to kick your heels and relax a little with a cup of freshly brewed coffee and a small sweet treat, recollecting the memories you’ve made in your day in Dubai so far.

Places on Palm Jumeirah :

• The Byron Bathers Club — Dubai’s very own Australian oasis, the Byron Bathers Club is a popular destination among the Palm Jumeirah visitors. The freshest seafood and the booziest cocktails await those stumbling upon this highly coveted spot. Their regular Oyster & Mussels days prove to be a total hit, so try to book a table beforehand! Sitting under the shade of palm trees while on “the” Palm is a one-of-a-kind experience, that’s for sure!
• %Arabica — baguettes, soft-serve ice-cream, and, most importantly, coffee, — the ultimate lunch date combo, in our opinion. Join the army of tourists walking around the Palm with a cup marked “%” in the middle: The epitome of IYKYK talk.

Places by Alserkal Avenue :

• FOMO Burger — who needs McDonald’s when there’s FOMO Burger in Dubai? One look at their trendy holographic food packaging intrigues you to take a peek inside, where you see every American’s dinner classic — the BURGER. The name of the joint suggest you run here as fast as you can to avoid getting that fear of missing out on this iconic spot!
• Pekoe tea & bread bar — a lovely small-batch Asian bakery that serves treats worthy of any Studio Ghibli movie. Being huge coffee drinkers, we still love this spot’s dedication to all things tea: There’s matcha, iced tea, cold brew tea, all the works! P.S.: Don’t forget to snag a loaf of bread for a walk back home: It’ll be gone before you reach your hotel!

We know that the most important activity in a new place is exploring its culinary scene, so we went ahead and added all the spots mentioned throughout the article into one map: That way, you can always look up the closest food joint any time you get hungry during your one day in Dubai.

Where to stay in Dubai?

Even if you only have 24 hours in Dubai, you still need to find a place to crash and shut your eyes (preferably in a nice bed, since your weary tourist body has been through a lot).

What are the characteristics we usually look for when choosing a hotel in Dubai perfect for a short stay in the Emirate? Well, besides the usual standards of cleanliness and service, we shoot for the hotels that are located close to a metro station. No matter how far from the proverbial Dubai “city center” the hotel is situated, we know we’ll get to Downtown Dubai in record time.

We’ve gone through the trouble of testing out a few of the hotels that we believe are just what you need if you have only one day to spend in Dubai. Here’s the short (albeit completely fleshed out) list:

• 5* Stella Di Mare Dubai Marina Hotel (from $180 per night) — in the best tradition of Art Deco style, the common spaces of Stella Di Mare sport the interiors pleasing to the eye: At times dark, symmetrical, with geometric lines that help you relax at an instance, even after a hard travel day. Located within walking distance of Dubai Marina and JBR, the hotel has a gentle mix of almost hazy city views paired with panoramas of the marina. Five-star status of the hotel guarantees top-class amenities and the best overall treatment: Your every issue will be resolved in an instant. Our advice: Book yourself a massage for the time of your arrival; that way, you’ll be in the right mindset to appreciate the finer things the hotel has to offer.
• 4* Wyndham Dubai Deira (from $130 per night) — right on par with the neighborhood the hotel sits in the middle of, the interiors can only be described as “50 shades of beige”: Modern rooms and airy spaces make for a perfect palate cleanser to come back to after a busy day of sightseeing and adventures in the Emirate. Can’t leave work behind even on vacation? Not a problem, since the hotel has a few conference and meeting rooms that hit the spot for every traveling workaholic. Don’t forget to take a dip in an outdoor pool to make all your worries melt away: You deserve the best, and Dubai is more than happy to accommodate your every need!
• 4* DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel in Dubai – Al Barsha (from $105 per night) — one of our favorite places to stay at in Dubai, be it a short stay or a long vacation: In our opinion, the price-quality ratio of this Hilton hotel is the best in the Emirate. Though not as pretentious-looking as the previously mentioned contenders, DoubleTree gets the job done: It’s comfortable, with great location, not that expensive, and provides the usual list of amenities one might need for a pleasant stay.
• 4* Carlton Downtown Hotel (from $150 per night) — if you’ve been dreaming about one day waking up to the view of Burj Khalifa out of your window, then booking a suite in Carlton should be your top priority. We know that the views opening up from the decks of Burj Khalifa are mind-blowing, but they lack one thing: The view of the building itself, which is such a shame! Carlton hotel’s location is adjacent to Downtown Dubai, so you can easily spend your morning enjoying the views of the skyscrapers, while planning your one day in Dubai itinerary. That’s a win in our book!
• 3* Gateway Hotel (from $135 per night) — the more budget-friendly choice for travelers that are conscious of their spending. Even though the hotel is located not too far from Meena Bazaar (which can be proven to be a strain on your wallet, since no tourist can resist the temptation of buying a few special trinkets to remember your trip by), you are guaranteed to save plenty of money if you stay here. The abra station is close, the airport is 15 minutes away, and all the historical Dubai landmarks are just around the corner, — transportation will be the last thing you’ll have to worry about. All in all, the rooms are nice, the staff is welcoming, and the amenities (like a gym and a spa center) are in great condition. A solid choice for a short stay in Dubai; a real getaway into the city.

• 5* Atlantis The Royal (from $850 per night) — in stark contrast with the hotel counterpart above, Atlantis The Royal is one of the more lavish and extravagant accommodation options you can shoot for while in Dubai! While not exactly being metro-adjacent, this hotel is not really about being easily accessible, in every sense of the world. Staying here presupposes you using helicopters to get around Dubai, and while it can be arranged for some, the majority of tourists can only dream about staying here. The hotel’s Tetris-like shape is definitely intriguing, and their wonderful pool area and pristine white beach with crystal-clear water can definitely be a source of envy, even if only through social media.

How to get around Dubai in one day

Since Dubai is as far from the label of a walkable city as we are from being royal descendants (definitely not), then the question of getting around Dubai is a pretty important one to figure out beforehand. What are your main options?

• Hail a cab in the street (a 15–20 minute ride will cost you around 25–35 AED / $7–$10); but if you aren’t a fan of being all spontaneous, you can call an Uber (it can sometimes be a little more expensive though, so keep that in mind).
• Take a metro: Since you only have one day in Dubai, you can avoid getting a Nol Card and simply get single-ride tickets each time (4–8.5 AED / $1–$2.3). Public transport in Dubai is pretty developed, and even though metro stations are few and far between, you can catch a tram or a bus right to your destination.
• Use the service of a hop-on hop-off bus (from 280 AED / $76) and explore the most famous Dubai attractions at your own pace, although on a pre-planned route.

Now that your day in Dubai is planned and ready to be conquered, there are some things to know before you go on your adventure of a lifetime:

✔️ Because you only have one day in the city, we’d advise you splurge on taking exclusively taxi rides from attraction to attraction. It saves you a ton of time, and the chances of you getting lost are now close to zero. Efficiency over everything!

✔️ Like a true scout, always be prepared: That means wearing modest clothing (the men should also avoid wearing short shorts to a mosque), bringing a head cover with you (ladies-only), and having enough water to last you between places (to avoid dehydration in hot weather).

✔️ Adhere to local traditions: Even though more than half of Dubai’s population are expats, there are still laws that can be enforced (and often are enforced, to a varying degree). So, do not express any PDA in public (no kissing, even if it’s your partner), don’t dance or sing in the streets, don’t be publicly intoxicated or take your beer bottle out of the restaurant and into the street.

✔️ Also, in the age of Instagram and bloggers, don’t take pictures of the Emiratees (especially women) without asking them first. It should be common knowledge, but tourists tend to let this one slide at times.

✔️ Don’t spend too much time in one place! If you’ve decided on a schedule, stick to it. There’s always next time, and Dubai will be waiting for you, in all of its magnificent and ever-evolving glory!

Well, here it is, folks! We hope that our Dubai in one day guide eased a little bit of your travel planning stress, leaving you with more energy to actually enjoy and appreciate the amazing Dubai landmarks. If you have any questions regarding the topic of short trips to Dubai, feel free to leave them in the comments below!

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One Day in a City

24 Hour Travel Itineraries to Make the Most of a Day in a Destination

Local’s Guide to the Perfect Day in Dubai

January 4, 2021 By Gina Posts on this site may contain affiliate links. Read the full disclosure here .

One Day in Dubai Itinerary + Essential Things to Know Before You Go

Dubai is ever dynamic and multi-faceted. It has all the sparkle and sophistication of an uber-contemporary metropolis on one side, and the old world vibe on the other with the Al Bastakiya Quarter and a quaint untouched desert scene. 

Because of that, the thought of hitting the UAE’s most popular city in one day may sound overwhelming. But, luckily, with appropriate planning, it’s easier than you think! Especially with our one day in Dubai guide, which has all the vital Dubai info and top suggestions you need to help you make the most of your 24 hours in the city.

Before You Go: Essential Dubai Information to Know

• Dubai is located across the southeastern coast of Arabian Gulf.

• Dubai is the UAE’s second largest emirate, after Abu Dhabi.

•, The winter months from November to March make up the peak season due to its pleasant weather and many seasonal events and attractions. 

• Dubai is four hours ahead of UTC (Coordinated Universal Time.)

• Dubai’s currency is the UAE Dirham and is pegged to the US dollar. One dollar is equivalent to AED 3.67.

• As an Islamic destination, the destination expects you to dress modestly with strict restrictions on all kinds of PDAs.

• Dubaiites and Emiratis revere the month of Ramadan, so refrain from eating or drinking in public during this holy month.

• Get prior permission before capturing images of significant government structures and locals, mainly Emirati women.

• There are two international airports: Dubai International Airport and Al Maktoum International Airport.

Top Tips To Get Around Dubai

• Dubai is by no means a walkable city, but its well-integrated public transport consisting of the metro, public buses, cabs, and ferries make it super easy to get from one place to another.

• Purchase a NOL card (ideally red card) to make payment for all public transport.

• While public transport is convenient and exceptionally affordable, the best tip is to rent a car to get around quickly if you’ve got only one day to spend in Dubai. Don’t forget to carry your international driving license in case you plan to get behind the wheels.

• If you want to make it even more convenient, you can go for a guided excursion with a made-to-measure itinerary that incorporates all your favorites (check our ‘Where to Go’ section for more ideas.)

1 Day in Dubai: Where to Go

Instead of an off-the-rack itinerary, we’ve included a list of must-sees and experiences that encompass some of Dubai’s top neighborhoods.

This will help you to pick your favorite attractions and activities, thus allowing you to put together a more feasible travel program that matches your preferences and style.

Each thing to do in Dubai that we list below also includes an estimated amount of time we recommend you should spend at the attraction so you can better put together your perfect one day in Dubai itinerary.

1. Downtown Dubai

Downtown Dubai is a posh 500-acre neighborhood that is packed with glitz and glamor, making it one of the most stylish places in Dubai. Sure enough, the region is home to some of the city’s powerhouses such as:

The downtown area is situated along Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road and is surrounded by Business Bay in the south and Financial Centre in the north.

Burj Khalifa

It’s the world’s tallest structure towering at an astounding height of 828 meters. A visit to its observation decks on 124th and 148th levels is highly recommended for the most comprehensive and unparalleled views over the entirety of Dubai and beyond. A high-speed elevator ride and a fascinating multimedia display of Dubai’s past are all added perks of your Burj Khalifa visit.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here: 30 minutes to 45 minutes

The Dubai Mall

Next to Burj Khalifa is the world’s biggest mall. The Dubai Mall hosts outlets of many beloved brands and merchandise with some 1,000+ shops. More than 200 dining outlets make it a foodies’ haven as well. 

Aside from these, this mall is also one of the city’s most favorite leisure and entertainment destinations.  At the Dubai Mall, you’ll find Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink, KidZania Dubai, VR Park Dubai, and Hysteria Dubai Mall.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : You can wander around here as long as you wish. But with just one day in hand, it’s ideal to spend here not more than 60 minutes to 90 minutes.

Dubai Fountain Show

You’ll find this extravaganza of light, music and water outside of the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa. Simply put, it’s a choreographed water performance in perfect harmony of iconic regional or classic international musical numbers played in the background. With limited shows during the day, make sure that you time your Downtown Dubai visit accordingly to catch the show, preferably after 7 p.m. 

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : 15 minutes

2. Palm Jumeirah

This chicest neighborhood of Dubai is also renowned as the world’s most elegant man-made island, which looks like a giant palm tree crowned by a crescent. The following are among the can’t-miss sites here:

Atlantis, The Palm

This 5-star resort on the crescent part of the island is easily identifiable for its regal, palatial style façade.

Atlantis, The Palm is more than just its high-end accommodations; it’s equally worth a trip for its many cool attractions like Aquaventure Water Park (a must-do for water park lovers), Lost Chamber Aquarium (which is a real stunner for its mysterious ambience and distinct exhibits), and Dolphin Bay with some adorable dolphins to give you company.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : Depending on what you wish to see or experience here, you’ll need an average of one to two hours.

Helicopter Ride

Want to cherish the splendor of this island in its true state? Hover above the island in an advanced helicopter equipped with the latest safety measures. Beyond the bird’s-eye view of this island, your pilot will regale you with some captivating facts about the island as well as its top highlights.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : Subject to your chosen flight package, it lasts for 12 minutes to 40 minutes.

This is especially recommended for those who wish to add a touch of wild fun and adventure to their sky-high Dubai sightseeing. With no interludes in between your jump from the aircraft and your way down, it’s one of the ultimate ways to take in the unequaled majesty of this man-made island.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : Sky diving lasts for not more than 15 to 20 minutes but the whole experience from check in to the pre-flight orientation will require at least two to three hours.

Monorail Ride

Not able to afford airborne sightseeing tours? Then a ride aboard the monorail does the job for you. And the bonus is that it covers almost the entire of this island in a 10 to 15 minutes ride.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : 10 minutes to 15 minutes

Laid out along the shorelines behind Atlantis, The Palm, this is one of the refreshing spots for the most scenic sea views and calm ambience. Many food trucks, souvenir shops, and other shops line the boardwalk and add to its vibrancy.

3. Old Dubai

Living up to your imagination, this neighborhood holds some of the area’s most historic and distinctive structures. The iconic Dubai Creek comprises this age-old part of Dubai, as does the Deira and Bur Dubai areas. Top attractions here include:

Al Bastakiya Quarter

It’s unimaginable for culture and history buffs to end up their 24-hour Dubai trip without traveling here. Also called Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, a visit to this 19th century era neighborhood is like stepping into an altogether different era, thanks to its many modest sand-colored structures that are still retained to their original state. Also don’t miss touring some of the area’s intriguing museums, art galleries, and landmarks such as Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : 30 minutes to 60 minutes

This charming area along the Creekside is bursting at the seams with some of the most amazing dining, leisure, and shopping options.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : 15 minutes to 30 minutes

Whether you’re a shopping fanatic or not, don’t leave Old Dubai without checking out the traditional Arabian bazaars or souks spread across Bur Dubai and Deira. There is Gold Souk, Perfume Souk, Textile Souk, and Spice Souk – each with its own intrinsic appeal and character.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : 60 minutes

An abra ride across Dubai Creek is one of the most cost effective things to do in Dubai, costing just AED 1 per ride.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : 30 minutes

4. Jumeirah

This coastal neighborhood is one of the most striking with its stunning beaches, lovely green parks, and a bevy of chic cafes, lively bars, and extraordinary accommodations. Along with these, it stands out for its attractions and sights like:

Burj Al Arab

This is one of those Dubai landmarks which people don’t want to miss on their debut trip. After all, it’s iconic for its sail-shaped structure and also considered the only seven-star hotel in the world.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : 15 minutes to 60 minutes (if you plan for a dining session here)

Wild Wadi Water Park

This is one of Dubai’s perennial attractions. It has a variety of water-based rides, ranging from milder ones to thrilling slides and even a water rollercoaster. Wild Wadi Water Park also has onsite dining and shopping.

Recommended amount of time spent here: At least 60 minutes

Don’t miss this pulsating yet pristine beach if you seek water fun with cool activities such as parasailing, paddle boarding, and kite surfing.

Madinat Jumeirah

Fusing Arabian heritage with modernity, Madinat Jumeirah boasts four luxurious hotels, 40 plus dining choices, a traditional style souk, and a host of other facilities like Talise Spa.

Jumeirah Mosque

It’s one of the region’s oldest and most charming mosques and is open to non-Muslims as well.

5. Al Barsha

Al Barsha is a hotspot for dining, shopping, and leisure and entertainment. One of the most visited spots here is:

It’s inside the Mall of the Emirates and is popular as the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort. Once you enter, you’ll forget for a bit that you’re in a searing desert city. With its snow-filled alpine settings, real-like skiing slopes, and a vast array of snow-themed rides and attractions, it gives you a feel of being in an authentic winter destination.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : At least 60 minutes

6. More Dubai Attractions / Activities

Desert Safari

If you get a chance to squeeze in this desert trip to your one day itinerary, don’t miss it. Dependent on your time, take a brief morning or an elaborate evening desert safari. Whichever you opt for, you’ll no doubt have a pulse-racing and fun-filled time amidst the incomparable serenity of Dubai’s desert landscape.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : 3 hours (Morning Desert Safari) to 6 hours (Evening Desert Safari)

Dhow Cruise

This is one of the most ideal ways to end your Dubai visit. Surrounded by the most breathtaking Dubai night skyline vistas and complete with mind blowing live traditional performance and lavish buffet dining, a cruise in a traditional dhow gives you a slice of the timeless Arabian culture and heritage as well.

Recommended Amount of Time to Spend Here : Approximately 90 minutes

Seasonal Sights & Events

While the majority of attractions mentioned above can be experienced during any part of the year, Dubai’s seasonal attractions are those exclusively lined up for its winter months from late October to April. This ranges from Dubai Miracle Garden and Dubai Garden Glow to the grandest ever Dubai Shopping Festival and Global Village.

Best Places For Quick Shopping in Dubai

Dubai is a shoppers’ haven, so what’s a Dubai holiday without some retail therapy? Whether you’re looking for items from top-notch or even budget brands, more than 70 gigantic malls across the city have it all – The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Ibn Battuta Mall, Wafi Mall, and Deira City Centre are just some to name.

For bargain shopping, the souks across Bur Dubai and Deira will fetch you some unique souvenirs, apparels, and decorative items at rock-bottom rates. Want to scour more deals? Head to the spots such as Dubai Outlet Mall (where clearance sales are regular) and Dubai Flea Market, which exclusively hosts the sale of second hand, but well maintained items such as handicrafts, books, gadgets, and more.

Enjoy Your Day in Dubai!

That’s a wrap of our suggestions for your one day in Dubai itinerary! So if cobbling together diverse aspects of your mini Dubai getaway gets out of your hands, we anticipate that the above recommendations and tips would certainly prove beneficial for you.

About the Author: Neha is a travel blogger by profession and also an avid photographer. In her spare time, she loves spending time with her family, binge watching various series on Netflix, and painting. You can follow her writings on www.DubaiWikia.com .

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I'm a former travel agency marketing director turned freelance travel writer. My editorial and copywriting work has been published on and in USA TODAY, Travel + Leisure, the Travel Channel Cities app, TripSavvy, and many more online and print publications. I especially love sharing my knowledge of traveling with limited vacation time, making the most of cruise ports of call, and vacationing with kids. I also enjoy sharing my favorite travel gear and products to make traveling easier!

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One Day in Dubai Itinerary – Top things to do in Dubai, UAE

Dubai is so full of spectacular sights that you might be wondering how to experience the best ones if you don’t have too much time. Therefore, we’ve put together a little itinerary to help you see the best of Dubai in a day. So, assuming you’re here on business, or on a stopover, you can still enjoy everything this glamorous city has to offer. We recommend that you stay at a hotel close to the airport to save time and reach all attractions via a Metro line. No doubt, your one day in Dubai is going to be magical.

GUEST POST BY NEHA BLOG: Dubai Wikia

Plan your trip to Dubai

1. What’s The Best Time To Visit Dubai? 2. A few facts about Dubai 3. One Day In Dubai Itinerary 3.1. Go for an early morning balloon ride 3.2. Have fun at Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark 3.3. Check out Burj Al Arab 3.4. Explore the Souks of Dubai 3.5. Cross the Dubai Creek 3.6. Check out Burj Khalifa 3.7. Visit the Dubai Fountains 3.8. Take a break for lunch 3.9. Explore the Dubai Mall 3.10. Visit KidZania 3.11. Check out the SEGA Republic 3.12. Enjoy an evening Cruise 3.13. Stop for dinner 4. Where to stay in Dubai? 5. Day trips from Dubai 6. Extra tips for visiting Dubai

What’s The Best Time To Visit Dubai?

TIP: Need a transport from/to an airport? Pre-book your transfer with Welcomepickups . They offer the cheapest prices and most comfortable ride along with the possibility to pre-order essential travel products.

Dubai is hot – there’s no escaping the desert climate. However, it’s much cooler between November to February . If you’re in Dubai during this period, don’t miss the Dubai Shopping Festival!

A few facts about Dubai

The roots of this city go back to the beginning of the 18th century and for about one hundred years Dubai was a small village with less than 1000 people. However, due to its location, it developed into an important trading hub and in the 1960s it was the global centre of gold trade. At the end of that decade oil was discovered and a huge infrastructure boom occurred. In just a few years, the city grew about four times and started attracting many people. Still, the oil reserves this city has are not that big and today this energy source accounts for only about 5% of Dubai’s GDP. The rest comes from financial services, tourism and many other forms of trade.

One Day In Dubai Itinerary

Follow this guide and make the most of your trip even if you’re short on time. These are the top sights and things to do during your one day in Dubai.

Go for an early morning balloon ride

If you decide that this is what you want to do in Dubai to start your day (and you really should), you’ll be picked up at your hotel and taken to the launch site at dawn. There you’ll be gliding over the billowing sand dunes in your balloon with a pilot, watching the desert sunrise break over the city. Flying with falcons at 4,000 feet above ground does some wonderful things to your heart. After the flight, you’ll freshen up at a private desert conservation reserve, enjoy a gourmet breakfast and be back at the hotel before 9 A.M. Be sure to book this in advance if you want to enjoy this incredible start of your one-day tour of Dubai.

Have fun at Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark

If you’re just looking for some good clean or even adrenaline-pumping fun, you can always just spend your morning in this amazing place. Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark even has its own private beach you can use when you get tired of the incredible waterslides all around you (and that’s honestly quite hard). No matter if you’re alone in town or with your whole family, there is something for everyone here.

Check out Burj Al Arab

An incredible number of tourists make a visit to this iconic building a vital part of their one-day tour of Dubai. Burj Al Arab is actually a hotel , one of the tallest in the world at that, but due to its fantastic architecture it has become one of Dubai’s symbols . It is designed to be in the shape of a sail of a ship and has won numerous prizes over the years for its design. While mere mortals will struggle to book a room here, it’s certainly a great place to snap some photos and one of THE things to see in Dubai.

Explore the Souks of Dubai

What to see after this excellent ride? Simple, grab the Metro and go to Al Ras Station, 400 meters from Deira, to explore the Spice and Gold Souks of Dubai . Enjoy browsing window after window of the most expensive gold, mounds of herbs and spices, silk shawls, handicrafts and more. Barter and buy something to take home. You won’t be sorry if you make this place a part of your Dubai itinerary.

Cross the Dubai Creek

Directly in front of the Deira souks is the ancient Dubai Creek . Grab an ‘Abra’ (a long-boat) and cross the creek to the other side, to Bur Dubai . Explore and shop around in that part of the city. What to see here? You absolutely must visit the old and beautiful Sheikh Mohammed Mosque.

Check out Burj Khalifa

Out of all things to do and see in Dubai in a day, a visit to this incredible landmark is probably the most amazing. Get off at the Burj Khalifa Metro Station, only 13 kilometers from Deira. Buy an admission ticket for AED 300 and go up to the 148th floor’s observation deck to enjoy a fabulous view of the city . The 828-meter tall world’s tallest building is a fabulous sight from any angle.

Visit the Dubai Fountains

The world’s largest choreographed fountains are located on the lovely Burj Lake , in front of Burj Khalifa. Watch jets of water soar up to 140 meters. There’s a show every half an hour, with a different design and song each time. Don’t forget to enjoy the Dubai Fountain lake ride . It is an exclusive, fun and extremely exciting activity you must try.

Take a break for lunch

The Dubai Mall is just the opposite of Burj Khalifa. Have lunch at one of the great eateries in the food court. Enjoy some kickass burgers at Five Guys or some lovely Indian food at Pappa Roti. You can also check out the list of restaurants in this mall to find something that suits you better.

Explore the Dubai Mall

The aforementioned mall, with its 1000 stores across 4 levels, has loads of choices if you don’t know what to see in Dubai next. You can, for example, check out the indoor Theme Park, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo and the Dubai Ice Rink, as well.

Visit KidZania

On the other hand, if you don’t know what to do with kids in Dubai for the day, KidZania , only 3 minutes from Dubai Mall, is an interactive ‘city’ for children, with kid-sized buildings, cars, offices and parks. Kids can work at any job here, wear uniforms, obtain career advice and even salaries in KidZos and drive small cars around!

Check out the SEGA Republic

Visiting the SEGA Republic is another great thing to do in Dubai with kids. Situated close to KidZania, kids can enjoy 16 rush rides, 170 video and arcade games and a virtual games area where one can snowboard, bobsled, free-fall, joyride; fight the dead and much more. Tickets are AED 300 per person.

Enjoy an evening Cruise

If you don’t have kids, bypass KidZania and SEGA Republic and take the Metro all the way to Dubai Marina for a yacht cruise . Important: book the cruise in advance . Cruise in a motor Gulf Craft yacht for two hours along Dubai’s shores, sailing by the Burj Al Arab, the Palm Atlantis and the Palm Jumeirah islands. The Dubai Marina is 23 minutes from SEGA Republic if you take the Metro line.

Stop for dinner

The yacht drops you off at Dubai Marina , where you can enjoy dinner in one of the nearby restaurants. The Dubai Marina mall offers a luxurious shopping experience and several classy eateries, so it’s a great place to wrap up your one-day tour of this incredible city. Once the dinner is done, just take the Metro back to your hotel for the night.

Where to stay in Dubai?

Park Regis Boutique Hotel

325 Road, Al Thany Street Jumeirah

Park Regis Boutique Hotel is an elegantly furnished, modern boutique hotel only a two minutes’ walk from the beach. Guests can enjoy a day swim or an evening beach walk. The rooms are bright, modern and quirky with a bit of a beach vibe, while some of them feature a city view.

BOOK A ROOM HERE

Rove Hotels

2nd Dec Road Jafiliya, Trade Centre

Rove Hotels are smart, fuss-free and affordable hotels that can be found all over Dubai city. They all feature modern and spacious rooms and a wide range of amenities & facilities like outdoor pool, fitness area, on site restaurant and bar. Pick your favourite according to location.

Day trips from Dubai

Should you want more from your visit to Dubai, there are plenty of one-day tours you can set up. From visiting other fascinating cities to exploring the incredible nature of this part of the world, day trips from Dubai can make it all happen.

Abu Dhabi is the country’s capital and a city that has modernized itself in quite a spectacular fashion. However, there are still some fantastic things to see that are connected to its humble beginnings. The Heritage Village will tell you all about it, and the Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque made of white marble is a sight to behold. Of course, you really should miss out on the Ferrari World theme park for some serious fun.

Musandam Peninsula

To get away from city life, book a day trip from Dubai to Musandam Peninsula. Crystal-clear waters, fascinating landscapes and maybe even some dolphins on the way will make you forget all about the stress. Climb aboard a dhow for an unforgettable cruise and dive and snorkel to get to know this incredibly beautiful place even better.

Desert Safaris

How does a desert adventure sound? Dubai can accommodate you with that, since there are many day trips that take you out there into the wilderness where you can even meet Bedouins . But you can also experience an adrenaline rush if you find yourself behind the wheel of a 4×4 vehicle, and smoking shisha with your hosts in this environment is also something very special.

Extra tips for visiting Dubai

• The Dubai Metro connects the Dubai Airport to Jebel Ali at the other end, where you get off to visit Bollywood Parks, Dubai. Use the Metro to reach Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina and Dubai World Trade Centre if you want to efficiently explore Dubai in one day.
• Dubai Tram stops connect with Metro stops and can be used to see attractions not connected by the Metro line.
• The Dubai Metro runs every day from 5.30 am until midnight, Saturday to Wednesday. On Thursdays, it runs from 5.30 am until 1 am and on Fridays, from 10 am until 1 am.
• Buy a prepaid Nol card from any Metro station and use it to pay for Dubai’s buses, trams, taxis and the Metro.
• The good transportation system makes it possible to enjoy several wonderful sights of Dubai in a day. However, we recommend that you estimate routes and distances and book cruises and tours in advance to ensure a smooth and memorable day in this great city.
• Avoid scheduling meetings with locals during the 5 daily prayer times.
• Tourists are expected to wear modest clothing and avoid public displays of affection.
• Bikinis are allowed in the water but modest cover-ups are best on the beach.
• Drinking and driving will earn you fines, imprisonment or even deportation.
• During the holy month of Ramadan , restaurants will be closed during the day. Even non-Muslims are not allowed to eat in public during the day.
• If you’re a man, it’s best not to shake a Muslim woman’s hand unless she offers to shake yours.

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If you have any other propositions for this One Day in Dubai Itinerary feel free to share it in the comments below! Save Save Save

Make sure you have everything you need

What to pack for your next trip.

Make your next trip as simple and as enjoyable as possible by packing smart. It’s amazing how much stress top travel items can save you, so choose carefully. Things like lightweight travel backpacks, for example, are ideal for short trips and allow you to move around with ease, and a passport holder will make sure you keep your documents safe at all times. Check our travel checklist guide for 2021 to make sure you haven’t missed anything, and travel to your next destination in style and with maximum comfort.

Related posts:

A postgraduate in Mass Communications, Neha loves everything about life. Traveling is extremely close to her heart and writing came to her naturally.

13 comments

Best guide ever! I had an amazing days in Dubai and that couldnt ve been possible with dessert safari , thank you for your time and that great experience

I have a layover in Dubai for a day and was wondering what all to see. Thanks to you, I have planned a one day itinerary to see all the important attractions in Dubai. Very nice blog!

Thank you very much, we’re glad it was helpful!

I totally liked this article by you on one day in Dubai itinerary. There are so many things to do in Dubai and you have mentioned some of the best things to do in the dynamic UAE city.

Thanks for taking your time on it and happy holidays!

Please let me know if you can pick up us at the airport for one day tour. We will be at Dubai Airport on July 10th after back from Dublin, Ireland. We would like to have one day tour and drive us back the airport. We will take the flight in the evening and back to Vietnam.

We are 2. Please let me know the rate for the tour including: meal, lunch, ticket…….

Hi, unfortunately, we do not provide such services. We suggest you check https://www.welcomepickups.com/ for airport car service.

It’s fascinating what Dubai has become in such a short time. You have touched on some of the things Dubai is known for. Well done.

A one-day itinerary to experience the best of Dubai? What a fantastic idea! It’s great to know that even with a limited timeframe, you can still soak in the glamour and beauty of this incredible city. A magical day awaits in Dubai! 🌆🏖️🌟

The proposed one-day itinerary for experiencing the best of Dubai is a thoughtful and efficient guide for visitors with limited time, be it for business or during a stopover. Dubai’s reputation for opulence and grandeur can be overwhelming, and this itinerary provides a strategic approach to capturing the essence of the city’s spectacular sights in a short timeframe.

The suggestion to stay at a hotel close to the airport demonstrates a practical consideration for time efficiency, allowing visitors to maximize their limited hours in the city. Utilizing the Metro line for transportation further emphasizes a convenient and swift means of navigating between attractions, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable experience.

The acknowledgment that even a brief visit can be “magical” reflects the captivating allure of Dubai’s iconic landmarks and vibrant atmosphere. While a day may seem limited, the itinerary ensures that travelers can still immerse themselves in the glamour and uniqueness that define this cosmopolitan city.

Nice Travel guide on one day in Dubai itinerary. It’s beneficial for new travelers. Thank you for sharing this amazing info with us.

What an amazing guide to experiencing the best of Dubai in just one day! This itinerary by Neha from Dubai Wikia is packed with fantastic suggestions, ensuring you make the most of your short visit to this glamorous city. The well-organized plan takes you through iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, and the Dubai Fountains, while also offering unique experiences such as an early morning balloon ride and an evening cruise.

For those with limited time, this itinerary is a lifesaver, allowing you to cover a wide range of attractions efficiently. Staying close to the airport and utilizing the Metro line is a smart tip, ensuring a seamless and time-effective exploration of Dubai.

If you’re planning your one day in Dubai, this guide is a must-read! tips on exploring the UAE, check out “How UAE” at [How UAE]( https://www.howuae.ae/ ). Happy travels! 🌍✨

This itinerary for a day in Dubai offers a perfect blend of must-see attractions and efficient travel tips, ensuring you make the most of your time in this vibrant city. From iconic landmarks to convenient transportation options, it promises a magical experience even for those with limited time.

thanks for sharing a valuable guide it helps new visitors.

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24 Hours in Dubai: Your Perfect One-Day Itinerary

Published September 25, 2022 · Updated April 23, 2023

Dubai, world famous for its futuristic architecture, luxury shopping, energetic nightlife scene, over-the-top sights, and cosmopolitan living, is a popular spot for a layover. You could spend months in this city and still not get through all of its attractions, sights, and things to do. However, since you’re pressed for time and only have 24 hours in Dubai, I’ve got you sorted with this awesome 1-day itinerary filled with the best that this city has to offer.

How can you see everything the city has to offer in one day? And when you only have 24 hours to spend in a city like Dubai, it becomes a challenge. This constantly changing Emirate is home to the world’s largest shopping mall, the tallest building in the world , the world’s largest dancing fountains, the world’s largest water park… Do not stress: I am here to help… Continue reading to discover a comprehensive guide on how to enjoy the best of Dubai in 24 hours.

>> Related reading:

• The most interesting facts about Dubai   to know before you go
• Tips when flying + what NOT to do on a plane
• Your guide on how to enjoy a stopover in Dubai
• Here’s what the city of  Dubai looks like from the sky in a seaplane
• The top travel questions and words about travel to inspire
• What to do when your flight is delayed or cancelled
• How to make the most of 1 day in Bratislava

How To Make the Most of Dubai in 24 Hours: What To Do

With only 24 hours to explore Dubai, you have to be strategic in how you plan your day, the sights you intend on seeing, and the order in which you decide to do so. You may just enjoy your time here so much that you contemplate a longer stay or even decide to buy an apartment in Dubai so that you can come and go as you please. Time is of the essence. Check out this itinerary and travel plan to help you get the most out of your limited but valuable 24 hours in Dubai.

Ok, let’s get going…

Hot air balloon flight in the early morning

Can you think of a better way to explore the emirate than to witness its endless desert dunes and the Dubai skyline in the distance? The silence of the desert, the early morning , and the warm sun will give you a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in all this, because you are in the vibrant city of Dubai. The hot air balloon flight starts early in the morning, ridiculously early. However, I can guarantee that it’ll be worth the early rise as you witness the sun rise over the Hajar mountains . When you return to earth, you will enjoy a delicious breakfast in the Bedouin camp, the opportunity to get up close to some falcons and a bit of time to admire the spectacular photos captured during your time in the sky. Fortunately, there are many places in Dubai offering hot air balloon flights. Many of them are ready to pick you up from your place of residence and then bring you back. The package offer also includes breakfast in the desert. Start searching for an affordable offer and book a balloon flight right away.

Explore the historic district of Al Fahidi

How do you like the idea of getting to know Dubai a little more through the history of the city? The historic Al Fahidi district or Bastakia, located in Bur Dubai, offers a glimpse into the pre-oil era of the UAE. Being one of the oldest districts in the country, it dates back to the 1900s. A walking tour through the winding streets and bustling courtyards of the historic Al Fahidi district will give you a unique look at Dubai’s heritage in one day. Here, you will also find museums and art galleries. Get the most out of your 24 hours in Dubai and explore other attractions of the city that will take you back to a time when Dubai was not the city of skyscrapers as we know it today. Be sure to try a snack at the Arabic tea house and visit the Dubai Museum.

Take a ride on an Abra

Don’t miss the Dubai Creek and the opportunity to ride on an Abra for a unique way of viewing the city. This experience simply cannot be left out from this list of what to see in Dubai in 24 hours. In many ways, old Dubai still exists in this dynamically changing city. One of Dubai’s oldest means of transport, the abra, is the best way to see old parts of Dubai from the water. Get on one of the motorized wooden boats at the Bur-Dubai-Abra station. Take a 5-minute drive around Dubai Bay, admiring the unique view of the old parts of the city, get off the boat in Deira and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of old Dubai. Tickets for the Bur-Dubai-Deira route are not sold in advance — you pay the boat driver AED 1 for the trip during boarding. This authentic form of entertainment is also the cheapest way to get from Bur Dubai to Deira.

While in Deira, don’t miss the opportunity to….

Visit the souk markets

Colorful bazaars in Dubai existed before the emirate became the megacity it is today. So if you want to see the best of Dubai in 24 hours, add these vibrant spots to your list. Most of Dubai’s traditional souks are to be found in Deira. The famous gold market of Deira, the market of spices, perfumes, and textiles are the most sought-after market places. Do not forget to bargain to get the best deals.

Lunch with a view of the Dubai Canal

One of the newer attractions of the city is the impressive Dubai Water Canal. This beautiful place, located in Business Bay, is accessible by taxi or metro. Take a walk around this architectural wonder along the embankment during your shot stay in Dubai to enjoy the surroundings. Follow this with a midday meal in one of the cafés on the embankment.

What to do in Dubai in the evening?

Dubai is as beautiful in the evening as it is in the early morning. Following the setting of the sun , the city gets transformed into a kaleidoscope of colour. Here is some ideas on some special entertainment for the evening during your 24 hours in Dubai.

Take a stroll along the Palm Jumeirah promenade

What could be better than an evening walk with a view of both the Dubai skyline on one side and the Persian Gulf on the other? The Palm Jumeirah embankment stretches for 11 kilometers along the crescent of the island , which is surrounded by the “palm branches” of this artificial island. A quiet walk along this stretch of the embankment will give you a wonderful perspective of this sparkling middle eastern megalopolis. The boardwalk on the Palm Jumeirah is also filled with numerous food vans, so now may be a good time to grab a bite if you’re feeling a little peckish.

Meet the sunset at the top of the world

Take a trip from old Dubai to new Dubai and climb to the top of the world’s tallest tower, the Burj Khalifa. This will give you the best opportunity to see a breathtaking view of the city that sprawls out below. The observation deck of the famous tower at the Top Burj Khalifa on the 124th floor, 828 meters high, has floor-to-ceiling glass windows for the perfect view. While here, see if you can spot important landmarks such as Burj al Arab, the Mir Islands, and several skyscrapers on Sheikh Zayed Road. Whether you’re traveling in a group or as a solo traveler in Dubai , a visit to the Burj Khalifa is a must visit. It is cheaper to book tickets in advance and buy them online on the official At The Top website . Tickets cost AED 159 for adults and AED 124 for children under 12 years old.

No visit to Dubai in 24 hours is complete without doing some shopping. So be sure to…

Visit Dubai Mall

As you are now in the heart of Dubai, how about some retail therapy in one of the world’s largest shopping malls? Dubai Mall is one of the most popular places to visit in the city and features its very own aquarium and theme park. This shopping paradise encompasses numerous international brands, excellent restaurants, and fantastic tourist attractions. It will take more than a day to explore this huge shopping mall and everything it has to offer. However, an evening will be sufficient for you to do some quick shopping and to get a feel for what’s on offer. This mega shopping centre, the second largest mall in the world with the size of 50 football fields, accommodates over 1,200 stores! Within the stores of the Dubai Mall, you’re guaranteed to find something for you and your loved ones: from the latest clothing brands to gadgets and entertainment. And if you are hungry, visit the restaurants in the Dubai Mall for a plethora of international snacking options. Once your shopping is done, be sure to visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo to marvel at one of the world’s largest suspended aquariums. The Dubai Mall is certainly one of the best places to see during your 24 hours in Dubai.

Have dinner with a beautiful view

If you are not fatigued with beautiful views just yet and are thinking of cool places to visit during your 24-hour stay in Dubai, pay attention to the Dubai Fountain. This local attraction is much loved by both locals and tourists. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants overlooking the spectacular view. You will find several restaurants on the lake embankment with a magnificent view of the fountain show. This mesmerising dancing fountain, found on Lake Burj Khalifa, is one of the largest choreographic fountain systems in the world. The shows take place every 30 minutes from 17:45 to 23:30. The fountain, synchronised to the rhythm of popular tracks from around the world , shoots water up to 150 m high and is a delight for the senses. You can also go for a boat ride on the Dubai Fountain Lake to see the dancing water jets up close. Tickets cost AED 65 and can be purchased on the embankment near the Dubai Mall. Alternatively, opt to view the city by climbing aboard a  Dhow cruise  for a two-hours trip on the water to view the bewitching skyline and scenery of Dubai after dark.

Other Frequently Asked Questions 

— What else to do in Dubai?

Do you have the opportunity to stay a little while longer in the UAE? If your stay in Dubai lasts longer than 24 hours you have a host of potential activities and attractions to add to your Dubai to-do list. These include Desert safaris, the Dubai Miracle Garden, Global Village, Jumeirah Mosque, Wild Wadi Water Park, and other thrilling theme parks.

— What entertainment is available for free?

You may be surprised to learn that there is plenty to do in Dubai that don’t cost an arm and a leg. Some of the most popular free activities in Dubai include trips to the arts district, the Coffee Museum, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, and visits to other numerous parks and beaches.

— What kind of entertainment is best suited for a family visiting Dubai?

When it comes to family activities in Dubai, you have a plethora of options. These include everything from trips to water parks, zoos, and museums to a day at a theme park or the beach. To get you started, here are a couple of my favourite places to visit in Dubai with kids: IMG Worlds of Adventure, Kite Beach, OliOli, KidZania, Global Village, Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park, Aventura Parks, The Green Planet, and of course LEGOLAND.

— Do you need a visa to visit Dubai?

Citizens of many countries do not require a visa or permit or to be sponsored by a national or resident in the UAE and are able to enter the country visa-free for a period of 30 days. However, residents of certain countries must arrange for a Dubai visa before arriving in the UAE. It is best to check with your embassy or consulate to receive the most up to date information.

Final thoughts

I hope this guide has given you the perfect introduction to your 24 hours in Dubai stay. It will, no doubt, be a fun, eventful, and tiring day. However, the sights, tastes, memories, and good times will be something that stays with you for a long time. Of course, the city has much more to offer. Other must-do activities that you can include in your itinerary include a visit to Dubai’s Golden Frame, Atlantis The Palm, and La Mer with entertainment on the beach . Whatever you decide, I hope you have an amazing time in this lively city. If you need any other travel tips or advice, be sure to reach out and I’ll be more than happy to help you out.

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TIP: Don’t spend your long Dubai layover sitting at the airport. Even if you only have half a day, you can see some of the city. If you still have to book your flights through Dubai, see if you can squeeze at least one night in Dubai into your itinerary. It will be worth it!

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One Day In Dubai: The Best 24 Hour Itinerary

Travel , United Arab Emirates | December 2, 2015

This post contains affiliate links, which means I may make a small commission if you buy anything mentioned here. It doesn't cost you anything extra.

Dubai is a popular place for stopovers to break up a long haul flight thanks to its position at the center of the world. It’s this prime location that has helped Dubai grow into an economic hub and thriving tourist destination.

If you have one day in Dubai to see the sights, you’ll be torn between the plethora of ‘Biggest and Best’ attractions like gleaming malls and skyscrapers, and the intriguing Arabian delights of Old Dubai .

With this guide to 24 hours in Dubai, you can see both the modern tourist attractions and lesser-known traditional side of the new world capital.

Pristine, spacious and impressive in every way, the Utopian city has so much to offer tourists and expats alike.

I lived in Dubai for 14 months , so I’ve updated this one day Dubai itinerary with all of my insider knowledge that you won’t  find in Lonely Planet’s guide . Yes, that includes how to save money on your layover in Dubai, because let’s face it: the destination is  expensive.

The Ultimate One Day Dubai Tour

Watch my full-length Dubai video on Youtube

It’s possible to pack a lot in to 24 hours in Dubai.

Your morning in Dubai should be all about the modern metropolis that is the 20 billion dollar Downtown complex; where everything is bigger, better and more expensive than anywhere else in the world.

Later in the day, you should try to explore Dubai’s ‘Old Quarter’, which is the area around Dubai Creek.

Here’s my itinerary for what to do if you have one day in Dubai.

1. Eat breakfast with a view

One of my favourite spots for breakfast just so happens to be in one of the top Dubai attractions that a lot of tourists don’t manage to see if they’re only in Dubai for 24 hours!

The Arabian-style Souk Madinat Jumeirah is the perfect place to start your day of sightseeing in Dubai. For an international start to the day, you can enjoy stunning views of the Burj Al Arab over breakfast at McGettigans . If you’d prefer a more quintessentially Arabic experience, book a table at Al Makan .

Book a breakfast to remember

2. Explore Dubai Mall

I’m not the kind of person to waste 24 short hours in a city shopping, but The Dubai Mall is a sight in itself. After all, shopping is part of Middle East culture. I recommend you go in the morning of your one day in Dubai, because that’s the quietest time to visit.

Dubai has plenty of malls, but this one is the world’s largest shopping mall with 12,000 shops spread over just four floors that take up the floor space of over 50 football fields. In 2012, the mall attracted more visitors than New York City, which is mind blowing!

Take a stroll along Fashion Avenue, drool over the Gold Souk, and escape from the cash registers at the waterfall.

If for some reason you don’t want to brave the crowds at Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates is also lovely – and it’s the one with the ski slope. You can get tickets for Ski Dubai here .

3. Enjoy some activities in Dubai Mall

Why am I sending you to a mall when you only have a short time to see Dubai? Simple! Some of Dubai’s top attractions are located inside Dubai Mall!

The Dubai Mall has an indoor ice skating rink, an aquarium, and an indoor theme park as well as a beautiful waterfall with silver divers leaping from the air. 

You can observe the ice skating rink and the aquarium for free, or buy tickets online in advance below to save money.

Book your mall activities

4. Grab lunch near Dubai Mall

The restaurants around the fountain are the perfect spot for people watching. Remember that these restaurants aren’t licensed, so you can only have mocktails.

I recommend booking one of the restaurants with a fountain view in Souk Al Bahar , a complex opposite the Dubai Mall. This quickly became one of my favourite places to eat in Dubai when I moved there – and the restaurants are licensed.

Craving a burger? Check out the SALT van on Kite Beach . Their burgers are to die for! Plus, you’ll get to say you saw the sea during your one day Dubai tour.

5. Go to the top of The Burj Khalifa

Want to get a bird’s eye view of Dubai? At over 828 metres (2,716.5 feet) and more than 160 stories, the Burj Khalifa is the iconic spike in Dubai’s skyline.

The world’s tallest skyscraper is accessible from Dubai Mall and though you can buy tickets there, it’s best to get tickets online in advance to save time waiting in what can be huge queues.

You can choose to go to the 125th floor or pay extra for a VIP experience, where you will have a personal escort take you to the highest habitable floor (148). I went for the latter because my favourite thing to do is to pretend I’m fancier than I am.

Get your Burj Khalifa tickets

6. Watch the Dubai Fountain Show

As the sun begins to go down, follow the crowds outside to watch the Dubai Fountain Show. They take place every 30 minutes until 11pm on the 24 acre Burj lake outside the mall.

Jets of incandescent water dance across the lake in beautiful formations, reaching heights of 140 metres. It’s quite a spectacular sight! Plus, it’s a completely free thing to do in Dubai.

Elevate your Dubai experience with an abra ride on the Burj Lake while the fountain show takes place.

7. Visit the souks

Grab a taxi from your restaurant over to the cultural hub of Dubai to dive into the emirate’s past. A visit to the souks is one of the top cultural things to do in Dubai and it’s totally possible to squeeze it into your day in Dubai!

Roam the winding alleyways smelling the aromatic, rich and colourful spices and browsing the gaudy gold knickknacks.

Read: My guide to visiting Dubai’s gold & spice souks

Book a tour of the souks

8. Dubai Creek

Crossed the street and take a moonlit walk along Dubai creek. It’s a saltwater creek which divides the city into two main sections – Deira and Bur Dubai. Here, visitors get a feel of Dubai’s past as a fishing town, as the water is lined with boats.

You can have dinner in a floating restaurant if you haven’t yet eaten or take a trip across the creek in a boat called an ‘abra’.

Some of the most remarkable buildings along the Deira side of the Creek are the Deira Twin Towers , Dubai Creek Tower, Sheraton Dubai Creek, National Bank, and Chamber of Commerce. On the other side of Al Maktoum Bridge along Dubai Creek you will also find Dubai Creek Park.

Book an excursion on the Creek

9. Eat dinner at one of Dubai’s fabulous restaurants

Dubai has SO many amazing restaurants. Some of my favourites are Carnival by Tresind for Indian food , all of the restaurants in Pier 7 in the Marina, all of the restaurants in Madinat Jumeirah. Nelson’s Pub is my go-to for a British roast!

Eating out in Dubai can be pricey, so book one of the below foodie experiences below to save some dirhams.

Book your dining experience

10. Experience Dubai’s nightlife

Girls, you’re in luck – ladies drink free pretty much any night of the week in Dubai. Do some research into which hotels bars are holding ladies nights on your day in Dubai. Men can come too, but they have to pay!

Some of the best places to go at night in Dubai for a party atmosphere are beach bars like Zero Gravity or Barasti . You might prefer to head to one of the more luxurious clubs like WHITE , Cirque Le Soir or Billionaire Mansion .

Check out one of Dubai’s best rooftop bars for a truly sumptuous night on the tiles.

Other things to do if you have one day in Dubai

• See Dubai Festival City
• Stroll along Kite Beach
• Visit a mosque
• Have dinner in the Burj Al Arab Hotel (in my dreams)
• Wander JBR The Walk
• There on a Friday? You have to do a brunch! I suggest Le Meridien’s Brasserie 2.0
• Go to the waterpark
• Hire a yacht
• Go quad-biking on the sand dunes
• Try a sunset safari in the desert
• See Dubai Marina
• Go to the Palm Island

The best Dubai day tours

The above itinerary is perfect for anyone planning a self-guided one day tour of Dubai, but if you’d prefer to be shown around by a reputable company you can book one of the full day tours of Dubai below.

I’ve also included some half day tours, in case you’d like to see the sights first then do your own thing later in the day.

What to do if you have more than 24 hours in Dubai

If you have more time to explore, you can visit another of the emirates (there are six more!) or try one of the other full day activities available in Dubai shown below.

Alternatively, check out some of my most popular Dubai posts for a little more inspiration.

The ultimate itinerary for five days in Dubai

The best Dubai desert safari package to book

Rules to know before you visit Dubai

How to tackle your first Dubai brunch

Authentic things to do in Dubai

How to see the real Dubai

Is it safe for females to visit Dubai?

Things to do in Dubai in one day with kids

If you’re spending a day in Dubai as a family, there’s no shortage of theme parks and other fun things to do! Atlantis Waterpark is the must-do, but there are plenty more places to visit in Dubai if you’re there just one day with the kids.

Keep them occupied for the full day (and save money on tickets for the whole family) with one of the below days out in Dubai.

Where to stay if you’re in Dubai for one day or more

If you’re in Dubai for 24 hours on a layover, you might want to stay close to the airport. I stayed at the  Premier Inn at the airport  and felt well looked after. The staff at the hotel were friendly and helpful, and the shuttle bus service made it easy to get around. There were frequent shuttles to the airport, the mall and Dubai Festival City.

However, it was a long trip to Downtown so this might not be the best option for you.

Depending on your budget,  JA Ocean View  has great reviews.

If you’re looking for serious luxury, try the  Waldorf Astoria on the Palm , uber-lux Jumeirah Al Naseem or world-renowned Burj Al Arab .

Search all accommodation to find the perfect hotel for one night in Dubai using the booking.com map below.

Plan and book your Dubai day trip

You can find great deals on Dubai holidays with the companies listed on my Travel Resources page .

Remember to get travel insurance before you go!

I’d love to hear your feedback on this guide to seeing old and new Dubai in one day. Are you planning a trip? Let me know in the comments, and feel free to ask questions. I’ll do my best to help.

Please follow While I’m Young on  Facebook ,  Instagram  and  Twitter  from more travel guides and stories. You can also  subscribe  to make sure you never miss a post. While you’re at it, subscribe to my Youtube channel and follow me on Pinterest !

samantha rickelton says

December 4, 2015 at 5:54 pm

I honestly can’t believe how much you squeezed into your trip and I’m excited to hear more about your secret mission!

Madi @ Restless Worker says

December 4, 2015 at 5:56 pm

Dubai looks incredible. So many people have been talking about it as a destination to go to recently! Can’t wait to hear what came from this Dubai trip!

December 4, 2015 at 6:02 pm

Dubai looks amazing from the food to the shopping and then that view! That’s interesting what you did while you were out at night with putting a ring on your finger. Brilliant!

Richard Collett says

December 5, 2015 at 9:28 am

I think a visit to the Souk is the most authentic experience in the Middle East

Anne Klien ( MeAnne) says

December 5, 2015 at 11:31 am

Thats a compact itinerary for a day. … I would laze around the Burh Khalifa sky lounge all day lol

December 6, 2015 at 11:14 am

I would love to see Dubai too for myself one day and experience the desert safari! I’m curious to know what the secret mission was! 😉

Rishabh & Nirali says

December 6, 2015 at 11:48 am

This seems like a fantastic itinerary. Even if you’ve missed something we’re sure you wouldn’t be able to cram anything more in it if going for a shorter trip 🙂

Rachel says

December 6, 2015 at 9:36 pm

Wow what an amazing flying visit you had. Definitely saving this post for when I finally persuade me fella to add Dubai to our travel list. Super intrigued about your secret mission too!

Svet Dimitrov says

December 6, 2015 at 10:07 pm

Wow, you really covered a lot of ground there! I have my best friend living there for 3 years and I am planning to visit him very soon. I am sure he will be able to show me around, but your post got me so excited! I recently read about the old city – it looks so nice!

Alexandrea says

December 7, 2015 at 1:09 am

Dubai looks like such a cool place. We have had a stopover here before but weren’t organised enough to know how to make the most of our time here.

christine says

December 7, 2015 at 4:24 am

Great way to spend the day. Next time try to make a stop over in Abu Dhabi, another cool place in UAE to see!

Alexis says

December 7, 2015 at 4:31 am

I think I would go straight for the markets! So cool that you made the most of your time there:) Good luck with whatever new adventure awaits!!

Anita Hendrieka says

December 7, 2015 at 8:00 am

Wow, Dubai looks like such an interesting place!

December 7, 2015 at 2:43 pm

I have often thought about Dubai and a place without a real soul and that maybe just a flying visit would be enough. It kind of seems like a crazy place, I think some of the excesses would not be my thing but actually this post makes me realise there are things to love about it too!

September 11, 2016 at 7:33 pm

Hi what website should i go to for burj khalifa tickets in advance? I’d like to do the VIP tour

Dubai Itinerary

A Perfect One Day Itinerary – How to Spend 24 Hours in Dubai

Last Updated: July 5, 2021

You have just one day to spend in the entertainment capital of the world. In 24 hours, you need to get the very best of all that Dubai has to offer. Let’s be honest with you – it’s a tall order. Dubai is simply scintillating; an unbeatable adventure in time and space, a traveler’s delight and a poet’s eternal rhapsody. Here are a few attractions and experiences you must not miss out on during your one day in Dubai – the magnificent Burj Khalifa, a blissful desert safari , a dhow cruise and the immensely popular IMG Worlds of Adventure.

To squeeze all of that into 24 hours is not easy but we’ve done it for you. Check out our list of 24 hours Dubai thrills, chills and spills and tell us what you think! We’re basing this one-day Dubai itinerary on the assumption that you are free to spend an entire day, from the early morning of your day in Dubai till the next morning.

Before You Land in Dubai

24 hours in Dubai

One day in dubai itinerary.

Early Morning

• Morning Desert Safari

If you want the best value for your money, make those 24 hours in Dubai work for you. Plan ahead and make the necessary bookings ahead of time. For example, if you plan on getting the view from the Burj Khalifa’s observation deck, be sure to book your tickets online in advance. Follow the guidelines we’ve laid for you here in this article. Map your route beforehand and be clear as to which sights you’ll manage to squeeze in, and which to leave out.

Give over to some exciting dune bashing sports; this involves driving a 4×4 fast over the dunes and coming down just as fast, to bash into the next dune. It’s an adrenaline-jerking adventure, and you’ll love it. Then if you want to, you can experience some desert quad biking. The desert terrain is very different – there are soft dunes and hard wadis, dips, valleys and rough shrubbery. Rise to the challenge and quad bike in the desert. You’ll be delighted.

You’ll also get to ride a camel; if you haven’t done this yet, you’ll find it strangely exciting and a bit scary the first time. You’ll enjoy the up and down rhythm of the camel’s stride, feeling amazed at sitting so high. If you like, you can go sandboarding as well – this is like surfboarding, except you’ll be boarding down dunes instead of waves. Enjoy every minute of your desert safari – it’s one of the most unique experiences that Dubai offers.

Suggested Read: Morning Desert Safari in Dubai with Ultimate Camel Ride Experience

How to Book: Book Morning Safari tour now and grab the awesome deal!

• Hot Air Balloon Ride

To make your experience even more special, opt for a desert safari with a hot air balloon ride. An early morning hot air balloon ride is the best way to get a bird’s eye view of the spectacular desert, the oases, the Heritage Village, and the Dubai coastline. Arm yourself with a telephoto-lens-enabled camera and you will enjoy the kind of views you’ve only dreamed of. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel after a continental buffet breakfast. Time to get ready for the next item on your list of things to do in Dubai .

Suggested Read: Experience Hot Air Balloon Ride in Dubai

How to Book: Check out online tickets for Hot Air Balloon Ride & get the best offers!

• Hop-On-Hop-Off Bus Tour

The big bus tour is the best way to see all of Dubai in the shortest possible time period. The best part is, you can step off the bus at any attraction you fancy exploring on foot. Then you can catch the next big bus on the same line and continue with the rest of your tour.

How To Book: Big Bus Tour tickets available online(1/2/3 Days)! Book Now!

• Burj Khalifa

We recommend that you get off the Big Bus at the Burj Khalifa, having booked tickets in advance. Enjoy the At The Top experience on the 124th floor, which contains a 360-degree observatory deck. Several telescopes are placed at various points on the observatory deck for your pleasure. Be sure to use these to focus on other attractions such as the Palm Islands, and get an up-close look. Use the telescopes to see all of Dubai, since you don’t have the time to explore everything. You can also choose from the diverse Dubai Burj Khalifa tickets that includes dining or an exclusive access to the Sky Level on the 148 th floor.

Suggested Read: Reasons to Visit Burj Khalifa

How to Book: Experience Burj Khalifa at the Top experience! Book tickets now!

• Dubai Fountain

Be sure to observe the Dubai Fountain, which is located in front of the Burj Khalifa, from the observatory deck on the 125th floor. There’s nothing more beautiful than watching the mega multi-colored fountain cavort and dance to famous global tunes. There’s a show every few minutes, so do take the time to watch it from above and spend a few minutes enjoying it from the boardwalk behind the Burj Khalifa.

You won’t have the time for a leisurely shopping experience, but to enter the Dubai Mall and feast your eyes on the grandeur of the place. It’s well worth checking out the Dubai Aquarium & underwater zoo and some of the top stores. Do take the time to enjoy looking at the biggest gold souq in the world and the incredible décor of the Dubai Mall.

Continue on with the big bus tour or cut the tour short, getting off at any point and moving on to the next item on your list. That’s the beauty of the flexibility offered by the big bus tour.

Break for Lunch

Spend about 2-3 hours on the Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain and break for lunch. Enjoy a great meal at one of the Dubai Mall’s many restaurants and eateries.

• IMG Worlds of Adventure

After the big bus tour is over, take a cab to the IMG Worlds of Adventure , one of Dubai’s latest and most exciting new attractions. Don’t miss visiting this mega theme park, the largest indoor theme park in the world, if you have kids along with you. IMG Worlds of Adventure is divided into several zones – IMG Boulevard which has retail outlets, cafes, restaurants and plenty more attractions for the whole family.

Then there is Marvel Comics, which contains adrenaline-pumping attractions based on iconic Marvel superheroes. Think Iron Man, Thor, the Avengers, Superman, and Spiderman – you’ll meet them all there. Then there’s the Cartoon Network zone, which has rides based on Bugs Bunny, the Flintstones and other cartoon network characters. Step into the prehistoric world and live among dinosaurs in Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure zone. There won’t be a single boring moment for you at IMG Worlds of Adventure, no matter who you are.

How to Book: Book IMG Worlds of Adventure tour now and grab the awesome deal! 

Alternative to IMG Worlds of Adventure

If the idea of spending the rest of the afternoon in the indoor adventure park does not seem like fun to you, here are a few alternative ideas that may appeal to you.

• Dubai Eye (Ain Dubai)

Touted, with good reason, Ain Dubai, the world’s tallest Observation Wheel, Dubai Eye offers a spectacular view of the entire city, coastlines, and desert from the top. The entire trip to the top and back takes 48 minutes, and you’ll savor each one of them.

Suggested Read: Ain Dubai Observation Wheel – All You Need to Know

• Dubai Water Canal

The Dubai Water Canal is a visual marvel that connects Dubai Creek with the Arabian Gulf. The canal passes through Sheikh Zayed Road, through Al Safa Park and Jumeirah. Three lovely bridges have been constructed over the Sheikh Zayed Road, under which lovely expensive yachts can pass.

• Palm Islands

The lovely manmade palm islands are a visual treat and a miracle of construction. The shape of the islands is so distinct that it can be easily spotted from outer space. The best way to take a good look at the islands is via a dhow cruise.

Suggested Read: The View at The Palm Jumeirah Dubai – A Must-Visit Observation Deck

• Helicopter Ride

A single day is just not enough to appreciate the magnificence of Dubai. We suggest getting done with the city tour or the sights plan by evening and taking an aerial tour of Dubai. Obtain the best possible perspective of the city’s famous landmarks, especially the Palm Islands, World Islands, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Eye and many, many more. You’ll get luscious views of the amazing desert, which glows red in the sunset.

How to Book: Helicopter Tour Of Dubai with the choices of 12 / 15 / 17 / 22 / 25 / 40 minutes!

• Dhow Cruise Dinner

Sign up for an exciting dhow cruise on the Dubai Marina, or the Dubai Canal or the Dubai Creek, combined with a delicious dinner. No matter where you sail, you’re guaranteed an absolutely thrilling experience with bespoke views of the surrounding attractions. The evening dhow cruise comes with dinner and onboard entertainment.

Dhow Cruise Dinner Creek

• AED 63 and up

Dhow Cruise Dinner Marina

• AED 125 and up

Musandam Dibba Tour

• AED 175 and up
• See More Tours & Experiences

Give over and allow yourself to be pampered by henna artists who’ll paint your hands and feet with flavorful designs. Feast your eyes on the eye-catching Tanura dancers and belly dancers who’ll gyrate to scintillating music. Forget about your cigarettes and cigars and fall in love with the shisha pipe and its flavored smoke. As you lay back on silk cushions, feasting your eyes on the views and on the beautiful dhow’s décor and attractions, you’ll feel like royalty. The dhow cruise Dubai is one of the top things to do in Dubai in one day.

If you have only one day in Dubai, we recommend that you follow this itinerary. We’ve included all the great fun and unique aspects of Dubai in this itinerary for you. Feel free to add or remove a few items to include your own preferences, but do enjoy Dubai to the utmost. It’s impossible to visit Dubai just once and be done with the city. Once you’ve been here, you’ll want to come back, time and again. And there’ll still be plenty to see and do, no matter how many times you return!

Georgia- Key Covid Guidelines for Travel

Deep Dive Dubai – Know what it’s Like Diving into the World’s Deepest Pool

Aanchal Iyer

Aanchal is a writer by profession and an avid foodie. She loves travelling, exploring and adding cherished experiences to the book of life.

That is an interesting itinerary! I think I have done maybe half of it during my only visit to Dubai!

Hello friend. Its great that you have done half of the itineraries. Try to complete remaining in your next trip to Dubai 🙂

wow, this is such a great place i came to know.I have been in dubai but never know advanture thrilling fun spot that can be very helpful to even kids. Thank for this. Sure, make it out to go

Thanks. Yes, Dubai has so much for kids, like water parks, gardens, attractions…

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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

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1 Day in Dubai

Short on time? This whistle-stop itinerary takes in the best of Old and New Dubai. Start with a traditional Emirati breakfast before exploring the city’s historic heart by the Creek. Then fast forward to Downtown Dubai’s modern hotspots for shopping, dining and stunning sights before calling it a day.

Things to do

Abra Creek Crossing

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Burj Khalifa

Dubai Fountain

A short layover in Dubai

Do you like it share it.

Travel With Me 24 X 7

Travel itinerary, Travel guide and Destination reviews

24 Hours In Dubai – Best Of Dubai In One Day – Detailed Itinerary & Must-Do Tours

What to do in Dubai in a day? In this article, read about how to spend 24 hours in Dubai and make the best of Dubai in one day when you have a short layover in Dubai. 

ALSO READ : 👉🏼Where To Stay In Dubai – Best Hotels In Dubai

24 Hours In Dubai – Dubai In One Day –  Transit Tour Itinerary for First-Time Tourists

Dubai’s one-day itinerary offers a whirlwind of iconic attractions, from the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, to the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain, providing a condensed yet unforgettable glimpse into the city’s luxury and modern marvels—a perfect option for those on a short transit or layover seeking an immersive taste of Dubai’s grandeur.

Check two types of short layover in Dubai itineraries with detailed time-wise things to do and recommended tours to book.

Note: This Dubai in one day itinerary is designed for a layover of 24 hours in Dubai and is specifically tailored for tourists with limited time.

Option 1 – Dubai In One Day

Option one for 24 hours in Dubai covers major attractions of Dubai like Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Old Historic Dubai, Burj Al Arab, and an optional desert safari tour.

Morning: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

8:00 AM – 8:30 AM: Arrival at Dubai International Airport

• Ensure your luggage is checked to your final destination or stored at the airport if necessary.

8:30 AM – 9:00 AM: Breakfast at Dubai Mall

Head straight to  The Dubai Mall for breakfast . The mall has numerous dining options, and you can choose from international cuisines.

9:00 AM – 10:30 AM: Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Fountain

• Take a short taxi ride or use the metro to reach the  iconic Burj Khalifa.
• Visit At The Top, the observation deck on the 124 or 125th floor, for breathtaking views of the city and the surrounding desert.
• Witness the mesmerizing  Dubai Fountain show  just outside the Burj Khalifa.

👉🏼Beautiful Free Things to do In Dubai (Itinerary + Maps)

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM: Dubai Mall Exploration

• Explore  The Dubai Mall, one of the world’s most extensive  shopping and entertainment destinations.
• Visit attractions like the  Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo ,  and if time permits, indulge in some shopping.

Afternoon: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM

12:00 PM – 1:00 PM: Lunch at Souk Al Bahar

• Take a  short walk to Souk Al Bahar,  a traditional Arabian market near the Burj Khalifa.
• Enjoy  lunch at one of the many restaurants  overlooking Burj Lake and the stunning skyline.

1:00 PM – 2:30 PM: Old Dubai – Dubai Creek and Al Fahidi Historic District

• Head to  Al Fahidi Historic District . You can take a taxi or use the metro to Al Fahidi Station.  

• Explore the Al Fahidi Fort ,  which houses the Dubai Museum, providing insights into the city’s history.
• Take an  abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek  to the bustling markets in Deira.

2:30 PM – 4:00 PM: Gold Souk and Spice Souk in Deira

• Wander through the Gold Souk , known for its dazzling array of gold and jewelry.
• Visit the adjacent Spice Souk, where you can explore a variety of spices, herbs, and traditional fragrances.

Evening: 4:00 PM – 8:00 PM

4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Jumeirah Beach and Burj Al Arab

• Take a taxi to Jumeirah Beach and capture photos with the iconic Burj Al Arab in the background.
• Relax at the beach, book speed boat tour or stroll along the Jumeirah Beach Walk.

5:30 PM – 6:30 PM: Dinner at Madinat Jumeirah

• Head to Madinat Jumeirah, a luxurious resort replicating an ancient Arabian citadel.
• Choose from one of the many restaurants offering a mix of international and local cuisines.

6:30 PM – 9:00 PM: Desert Safari Adventure (Optional)

Consider booking an evening desert safari for an adventurous experience if you have sufficient time before the flight.

Experience dune bashing, camel riding, and a traditional Arabian dinner under the stars in your Desert Safari adventure.

9:30 PM – 10:00 PM: Return to Airport

Head back to the airport, ensuring you leave ample time to clear security and reach your departure gate. If time permits, grab a quick snack or souvenir from the airport’s duty-free shops.

Option 2 – One Day In Dubai Itinerary

Here’s a suggested itinerary for one day in Dubai covering Burj Khalifa, Desert Safari, Madinat Jumeirah, JBR & Dubai Marina

8:00 AM – 9:30 AM: Breakfast at a Traditional Café

Start your day with a traditional Emirati breakfast at a local café. Enjoy dishes like Balaleet, Chbaab, or a classic Arabic breakfast spread.

10:00 AM – 11:30 AM: The Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa

Head to The Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world. Take a stroll around and visit the famous Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo .

Don’t miss the iconic Burj Khalifa. Purchase tickets in advance to visit the observation deck for stunning panoramic city views .

12:00 PM – 1:30 PM: Lunch at Souk Al Bahar

Adjacent to The Dubai Mall, Souk Al Bahar offers a variety of restaurants with a view of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain. Enjoy a leisurely lunch .

2:00 PM – 3:30 PM: Dubai Marina

Head to Dubai Marina for a relaxing afternoon. Stroll along the marina promenade, admire modern architecture, and enjoy a boat/cruise tour .

4:00 PM – 5:30 PM: Desert Safari

Experience the thrill of a desert safari. Join a guided tour that includes dune bashing, camel riding, and possibly sandboarding. Enjoy the sunset in the desert.

7:00 PM – 8:30 PM: Dinner at Madinat Jumeirah

Visit Madinat Jumeirah, a luxurious resort. Explore the Souk Madinat, enjoy the beautiful views of the Burj Al Arab, and have dinner at one of the many restaurants with a view.

9:00 PM – 10:30 PM: Dubai Fountain Show

Return to The Dubai Mall area to witness the spectacular Dubai Fountain show, a captivating water, music, and light show set against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa.

Late Night:

11:00 PM onwards: Nightlife or Relaxation

Depending on your preference, you can explore Dubai’s vibrant nightlife in areas like JBR or Dubai Marina. 

• Use a mix of metro, taxis, and ride-sharing services like Uber or Careem to get around the city.
• Consider getting a Nol Card for convenient access to public transportation.

TIPS – 24 Hours In Dubai – What To Do In Dubai In A Day?

• Plan Ahead:  Research and prioritize the key attractions you want to visit, considering their proximity to each other to minimize travel time.
• Early Start:  Begin your day early to maximize the limited time, especially for popular sites like the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall.
• Pre-book Tickets:  Purchase tickets online in advance for major attractions like Burj Khalifa to skip queues and save time.
• Efficient Transportation:  Utilize the efficient metro system, taxis, or ride-sharing services for quick and convenient travel between destinations.
• Compact Itinerary:  Opt for a packed itinerary focusing on specific areas, such as Downtown Dubai, to minimize commuting time and maximize exploration.
• Luggage Solutions:  If on a layover, consider using luggage storage services at the airport or city to travel light and move more efficiently.

• Cultural Etiquette:  Respect local customs and dress modestly, particularly when visiting religious or cultural sites.
• Weather Consideration:  Be mindful of the weather, especially during the hot months, and plan indoor activities during the peak afternoon heat.
• Flexibility:  Stay flexible and be willing to adapt your schedule based on unexpected circumstances or if certain attractions have long waiting times.
• Language and Currency:  English is widely spoken, but learning a few basic Arabic phrases can be helpful. Have some local currency (AED) for small purchases.
• Safety First:  Dubai is generally safe, but be aware of your surroundings and adhere to local regulations to ensure a smooth and secure visit.
• This itinerary is a suggestion, and actual times may vary based on personal preferences and the time of year, as tourist places during National holidays are crowded.

Remember, while a day is short, efficient planning can make your brief stay in Dubai incredibly rewarding and memorable.

This 24-hour Dubai itinerary offers a diverse experience of Dubai in one day, combining modern marvels with cultural and historical attractions. 

 Enjoy your short but memorable moments during your one day in Dubai!

Image Credits: Pixabay

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Explore Dubai in 24 hours with this 1 day itinerary!

Things to do in Dubai Dubai Travel Guide Dubai Itineraries 1 day In Dubai

So, you've got just one day to soak up all the magic Dubai has to offer? Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this whirlwind city, every moment counts, so buckle up and get ready for the ultimate 24-hour Dubai adventure. From the glitz and glamour of the Burj Khalifa to the traditional charm of the old souks, we're diving headfirst into the heart and soul of Dubai. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler looking to make the most of a layover, this jam-packed itinerary will ensure you don't miss a beat.

24 Hours in Dubai - How To Spend Your Time

The View at The Palm

Flyboarding

Bastakiya Quarter

Dubai Creek Abra Ride

Burj Khalifa

Dubai Fountain

Dubai In 1 Day - Detailed Itinerary

Top 10 Dubai Attractions

New Landmark

Observation Deck

Let's start with the best, shall we? Head to Dubai's latest palm tree, the Palm Tower , for an astonishing experience up in the sky. Towering 240 meters above Palm Jumeirah, the 52nd floor of the tower offers views that will leave you swooning. Grasp views of the Palm Jumeirah, the Arabian Gulf, and the Dubai skyline- all at once! This is also an opportune moment for you to learn about the creation of the Palm Jumeirah. Grab The View At The Palm Tickets here and save yourself the hassle of waiting around in line.

• The observation deck has movable glass partitions for unaltered views of Dubai.
• If you're up for it, head to the VIP lounge for some private entertainment.
• You can book the observatory for private events, celebrations, fashion shows, and more.

The View At The Palm Tickets

Flyboarding in Palm Jumeirah

Dubai Watersports

Thrill Seekers

Jumeirah beach situated right next to Palm Jumeirah is home to many water sport activities in Dubai. Flyboarding is one of the newest extreme sport to hit the coasts of Dubai. Flyboarding consists of a board with a hose that is attached to a jetski engine. The engine pumps water out of the hose at a great force, allowing one to propel into the air at heights of up to 10 meters. While you’re in the air, the board can be maneuvered using hand controls or even distributing your weight accordingly. The arrangement lets you fly, Iron man Style!

• Pay close attention to all the safety instructions given by the instructor and perform this activity under expert supervision.

Flyboarding in Dubai

Sightseeing

Historic Tour

Family Friendly

Begin day 2 with a visit to the old Bastakiya Quarters. Squeezed between Dubai Creek and the Bur Dubai district, Bastakiya Quarter harks back to the days when Dubai was just a fishing village on the Persian Gulf. This is one of the must-visit cultural sightseeing landmarks in Dubai. The winding streets of Bastakiya are lined with old-fashion wind-towered buildings that have now been converted into galleries and restaurants. Before you finish touring Bastakiya, make sure to visit the textile souk where you'll find some of the best bolts of fabric. Finally, to experience the old ways of Dubai in its truest forms, head to the creek and go for a scenic tour in traditional abra boats.

• This is a nice place to hop between art galleries and boutique restaurants.
• You may choose to opt for a sightseeing tour of Dubai- this includes access to the Bastakia Quarters, amongst other attractions.

Sightseeing Cruises

The history of Dubai and Dubai Creek are inseparable. Settled along the creek since its inception, Dubai Creek has played a pivotal role in Dubai’s past, helping it develop from a fishing village to a booming trade center, receiving trade from Europe, Asia as well as East Africa. Today, Dubai Creek is still an integral part of the city and a cruise down Dubai Creek is quite a traditional way of experiencing Dubai. A sightseeing cruise along Dubai Creek will allow you to see landmarks such as Dubai Chamber of Commerce, Heritage Village, Al Diwan or The Ruler’s Assembly, traditional gold & spice souks, Emirates N.B.D. Headquarters, Sheraton Dubai Creek and the Rolex Twin Towers.

• If you wish to sail down Dubai Creek and see the landmarks that lie on its banks, then go for a sightseeing cruise of the the creek.
• You can make your Dubai Creek cruise experience even better by opting for a dinner cruise where you will be treated with an international buffet dinner.

Top 5 Dubai Attractions

World-Famous Landmark

The tallest building in the world needs no introduction. With a total height of 829.8 m (2,722 ft), the Burj Khalifa has been the tallest structure in the world since 2008, even before it was finished. No trip to Dubai is complete without visiting the Burj Khalifa. Over 2 million people visit the Burj Khalifa every year, making their way to the highest observatory in the world - At the Top. Take your pick of Burj Khalifa Tickets.

• Purchase tickets in advance online in order to prevent queuing up for hours at the ticket counter.
• Evenings are some of the busiest periods at the Burj Khalifa. To enjoy the place in peace, head to the observatory in the morning or after 9:00 PM, when the crowd has lessened considerably .
• Sunsets from the top of the Burj Khalifa are considered a thing of beauty, but they're also the most crowded periods. To catch a sunset from the top, make sure to visit the Burj Khalifa an hour before the sunset.

Must-See Attraction

Family-Friendly

Finally, round your trip off beautifully by watching a show at the Dubai Fountain, right outside Burj Khalifa. One of the most beautiful light, water and music spectacles in the world; the Dubai Fountain is the world’s second largest choreographed fountain system. Situated in the center of Downtown Dubai, the Dubai Fountain offers a breathtaking show of choreographed water jets that shoot over 100 feet in the air and dance to the rhythms of songs from all over the world.

• If you opt for the Burj Khalifa + Boardwalk combo ticket, you can see the Dubai Fountain show from two unique angles.
• Best to arrive for the show after sunset for the best views.

1 Day in Dubai Under AED 700

Morning - view at the palm & flyboarding, noon - bastakiya quarter & abra ride, evening - burj khalifa & dubai fountain.

Book your Dubai Attractions tickets on Headout, and spend under AED 700 on your 5-day vacation in Dubai! Hit up all the prime attractions in the city and save more while you explore more. Read on to see our detailed 1 day Dubai Itinerary and learn more about visiting each of these attractions.

More Dubai Itinerary Options?

Have more time on your hands? Want to explore Dubai further? Check out our 3 days in Dubai and 5 days in Dubai itineraries for further inspiration.

The ONLY guide you need to explore the best of Dubai

Essential dubai guides.

Here are a few detailed guides that will help you plan your trip to Dubai better.

Sachin Kumar

Having lived and worked in Bangalore and Singapore before moving to Dubai, Sachin is one of the many expatriates who've come together over the years to knit the fabric of Dubai’s global culture. An avid urban explorer and photographer, he has spent countless hours uncovering hidden gems in these cities - eating in ramshackled establishments that only the cab drivers frequent, discovering underground markets, exploring abandoned buildings and staying with families that may or may not like him.

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Solo Female Travel – Switzerland, Europe and Beyond

ONE DAY IN DUBAI

DUBAI IN ONE DAY ITINERARY

Whether you plan to spend one day in Dubai as a stopover or as a day trip from Abu Dhabi – this post will help you plan your Dubai trip for a day.

I often have a stopover in Dubai when I visit countries in Asia, etc. and normally stay for a couple of days. But I have also visited Dubai for just a day and know how to make the most of a short Dubai trip. When people ask me about what to do in Dubai in 1 day, I can name tons of places.

However, I narrowed it down to the must-see attractions in Dubai , so that will ease your headache of planning. 

So, this post is all about your one day trip to Dubai – find out about the best way to explore this city in the Middle East, and some useful travel tips that will help you plan and enjoy your trip more.

DISCLAIMER: THIS POST CONTAINS AFFILIATE LINKS. THIS MEANS I MIGHT EARN A SMALL COMMISSION WHEN YOU BUY A PRODUCT/SERVICE (AT NO EXTRA COST TO YOU). MORE ABOUT IT  HERE .

ONE DAY IN DUBAI – PLACES TO VISIT

Okay, with only one day in Dubai, there is not much time to relax. So let’s start straight away!

Old Dubai – Around 9:30 AM

Good morning, early birds! If you’re looking for a way to make the most out of your day in Dubai, my recommendation is to start in the vibrant and lively Old Dubai.  

Head to the Gold and Spice Souks for an exciting and cultural experience. While some shops may not open until 10 a.m. , take advantage of the peaceful morning atmosphere.

I also love to visit when it is not so crowded yet, so I often come here in the morning before the hustle and bustle of the day begins. 

I love stepping into a world of exotic fragrances and flavors at Dubai’s Spice Souk ! This bustling traditional market is a feast for the senses, with colorful spices piled high in every direction. Honestly, this place is a haven for photographers, with so much colors and interesting items you can shop.

I also make sure to stop by the renowned Gold Souk – a traditional market that has stood the test of time. Though I have never bought any gold in Dubai, I consider this a must-see, whether you’re an avid gold collector or just a window shopper,

Shopping here feels more authentic and rewarding than in fancy malls and if I buy souvenirs or small items, I do it here. If you plan to buy something, be prepared to haggle with the shop owners. but do not give up quickly. 

While most shop owners are foreigners (Afghan, Indian, and Pakistanis), it still has an authentic vibe to it.

Just a quick warning – visiting the souks can feel intense. Shop owners approach you a lot, and it is not really a relaxing time. Everyone wants to sell me stuff. I know not everyone loves such intense places, and female expats told me they avoid the place altogether.

Also, it is not what we normally expect from Dubai, because we mostly see modern and luxury areas and not the souks. 

Near the souks, is Dubai Creek – a natural saltwater creek. Dubai Creek is a great place to visit – especially in the mornings . I love energy as people start their day, and it’s a great time to scope out some souvenir and spice shops before the crowds hit.

• If you are a female traveler, especially traveling solo, you might want to dress slightly more moderately, as stares can be intense. 

HOW TO GET TO THE GOLD/SPICE SOUK:

🚇 By metro: Get to Al Ras Metro station, and from there, you just have to walk for a few minutes.

🚕 You can also take a taxi/Uber or use the hop-on and hop-off sightseeing buses, which drop you off at the souks.

OPENING HOURS / TICKETS:

ℹ️  It is free to visit the souks and you could visit at any time.

ℹ️  However, most shops are open from around 9:30 am or 10 am to 9:30 pm, and on Fridays from 4 pm to 9.30 pm.

La Mer – Around 11 AM

Though I am not the biggest beach person, I love soaking up the sun and enjoying the picturesque beaches dotted with cozy cafes and gourmet restaurants. 

You might not find it on many Dubai itineraries as it is quite new but I think it is one of the best places to visit in Dubai . After visiting the souks, this is also a great chance to rest a bit – at least I do – before exploring crazy Dubai Downtown.

🚇 HOW TO GET TO LA MER:  

If you are at the Gold/Spice Souk, you have to get to the other side of Dubai Creek by an abra or metro. Then, at Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, you can catch a bus that drops you off at La Mer. 

If you get here by car, you will find a parking garage with free parking. 

OPENING HOURS/PRICES:

ℹ️  La Mer is open every day and there is no entrance fee.

ℹ️  The shops are normally open between 10 am to 10 – 11 pm or midnight.

Click here to read more about this part of Dubai.

Madinat Jumeirah – Around 2 PM

This stop – Madinat Jumeirah – is optional as it depends on how fast/slow you travel .

You could also do an abra ride (small wooden water taxi) here. The rides here are way more expensive than in Dubai Deira, the Gold & Spice Souk area, but you can ride them for free if you stay in a Jumeirah hotel. If you have seen Instagrammers on an abra with Burj al Arab in the background, those pictures were taken here. 

I love this area – it is so pretty, and neat, and the views of Burj al-Arab are amazing. I also love the restaurants here, though they are much more expensive than in other parts of  Dubai. Also, I found the clothes and souvenirs here are much more expensive (but also more high-quality) than in the Gold and Spice Souks.

Again, if you do not want your 1-day itinerary for Dubai to be too busy, skip Madinat Jumeirah and enjoy some more time at La Mer instead. Madinat Jumeirah is just an extra for the very fast traveler.

🚇 HOW TO GET TO MADINAT JUMEIRAH:

ℹ️  From La Mer, walk to Century Plaza 1 station and take a bus to Madinat Jumeirah. There is a little bit of walking included (around 10 minutes).

ℹ️  Alternatively, you can take a taxi.

ℹ️  It is free to visit the Souk Madinat Jumeirah.

ℹ️  Shops are open from 10:00 am to 11 pm, and restaurants are open from 08:00 am to 02:00 am.

Burj Khalifa – Around 4 PM

Even if you are in Dubai for only one day, make sure to add Burj Khalifa to your Dubai itinerary . After all, it is the  tallest building in the world.

Burj Khalifa stands proud next to Dubai Mall at 828 meters! But the real treat lies in the  observation decks , from where you have an unparalleled perspective that will leave you in awe.

Watching the sunset from the observation deck of Burj Khalifa is slightly more expensive. And it is not guaranteed that there will be a nice sunset to watch (Dubai can be quite foggy).  However, try to arrange your Burj Khalifa visit in the late afternoon and watch Dubai from above.  

If you need to know anything about me, it is my obsession with great views. This is why I love Switzerland and getting on mountain peaks, and this is why I love Burj Khalifa.

Don´t underestimate the time it takes to find Burj Khalifa’s entrance. It is located in Dubai Mall and it can take a while to find the entrance inside this giant mall. Also, you can book other packages and combine them with a dinner at Burj Club (I loved it).

Ticket prices vary depending on the level of access (levels 124 and 125 only are cheaper than access to level 148) and also the time of your visit.

CHECK OUT PRICES HERE:

➡️ Levels 124 & 125

➡️ Levels 124 & 125 and 148

➡️ Levels 124 & 125, including a dinner at Burj Club

If you do not buy tickets in advance, you might still be lucky and buy some at the ticket center.

🚇 HOW TO GET TO BURJ KHALIFA:  

ℹ️  You have to go to Dubai Mall. There you will see signs that lead you to “At the top of Burj Khalifa ” which is on the ground floor. From there, you get up to the top.

ℹ️  The ticket center/entrance is located on the Lower Ground Level of Dubai Mall .

OPENING HOURS/  TICKETS:

ℹ️  “At the Top of Burj Khalifa” opens around 10 a.m., and the last admission is at 9 or 10 p.m. (depending on the day).

Dubai Mall – Around 6 PM

Then, it is time to take the lift down and explore Dubai Mall  – which is just gigantic – and busy! 

If you are into shopping, you could spend days here at the largest mall in the world. Shopping in Dubai is more expensive than in Germany or the US – whether it is luxury items or clothes. The time when Dubai was known as a shopping paradise is for sure over. So unless you are looking for something specific, I would not necessarily recommend shopping a lot.

I love to stroll the mall because it houses several attractions like Dubai Aquarium. Inside Dubai Mall, you will also find a real dinosaur skeleton on display – popular especially if you visit Dubai with kids.

TIP: Don’t buy a ticket for the aquarium.  You get to see some parts of it just by being in the mall and you´ll see the underwater animals. The aquarium itself is not worth the money – in my humble opinion.

Then it is probably time for dinner – and you can choose from many restaurants in the area.

ℹ️  Inside Dubai Mall, you will find many restaurants. At the food hall, there are some very affordable places with food from all over the world.  

ℹ️  Then there are also other – quite high-class – restaurants inside Dubai Mall. I suggest, however, having dinner at Burj Club (and buying your combined ticket with an entrance ticket to Burj Khalifa) or choosing a restaurant outside with a view of Dubai Fountain.

P.S.: There is actually a dress code for Dubai Mall . Many people ignore it but you are supposed to cover your knees and shoulders (as a woman or man).

🚇 HOW TO GET TO DUBAI MALL:  

ℹ️  If you visit Burj Khalifa first, you are already inside Dubai Mall.

ℹ️  But how to get to Dubai Mall? You can get there by metro/bus, and it is also a popular drop-off point for sightseeing buses.

ℹ️  If you get off at “ Dubai Mall Metro Station, ” you can either take another bus that drops you off at the mall or have to walk about one more kilometer from Dubai Mall Metro Station to get into Dubai Mall.

OPENING HOURS DUBAI MALL / PRICES:

ℹ️  Dubai Mall is open from 10 am to 1 am. Restaurants and the food court are even open until 2 a.m.

ℹ️  There is no entrance fee for the mall itself.

Dubai Fountain  / Burj Khalifa LED show –  Around 8 PM

Dubai Downtown is a beautiful place to end your day in Dubai – this is where you have all the bling-bling you can imagine. After 6 pm, the famous dancing water show goes on just in front of Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa. I can tell you, it gets crazy there. I mean, really crazy just because it is so crowded.

Sometimes, the LED show takes place – which is honestly even more stunning than the water show. However, I have never really figured out when the LED show takes place. Check out the show time on the day of your arrival to find out when to see it.

Whenever the fountain show or Burj Khalifa LED show occurs, this place will be one of Dubai’s busiest. To get a good view, secure yourself a good spot before the show starts.

You can also book an abra ride and enjoy the water show without all the crowds. 

For a dinner with a view, visit one of the numerous restaurants outdoors that are close by . There are some nice restaurants with a view of the fountain , like the Mediterraneo of Armani Hotel, but make sure you reserve a table beforehand.

WATER FOUNTAIN SHOW SCHEDULE / PRICES:

ℹ️  Shows take place from 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM every 30 minutes.

ℹ️  It just lasts 3-4 minutes so be there on time.

ℹ️  The Dubai water fountain show is free. However, you can also book an abra ride and see the fountain show from a different perspective (and without the crowds). ➡️ Check out prices for the ride here.

🚇 HOW TO GET TO DUBAI FOUNTAIN:  

ℹ️  You could reach the fountain even without entering Dubai Mall (e.g., coming from Dubai Opera). If you are at Dubai Mall, you will see signs that lead you to the fountain as well.

OR: ALTERNATIVELY

Alternatively: Dubai Desert Safari – Around 3 PM

Alternatively, you can do a desert safari in the afternoon/evening. I love desert safaris in Dubai, so I do recommend them. However, if you have only 1 day in Dubai I am unsure if it is the best thing to do. Why? 

Well, a desert safari takes some time (around 5-10 hours) , and you will have to schedule all your other activities around it. You have to decide for yourself whether you want to skip some other activities instead.

There are different desert safaris – most include dune bashing, stargazing, and a belly-dance show and some also include a nice BBQ (for me as a vegetarian/vegan, there were plenty of options available).

I enjoy the time in the desert – yes, it might be touristy but it is fun . Especially the dinners in the desert and stargazing were my highlights. Though I have done a couple of desert safaris and been back to my hotel on time, keep in mind that delays can always happen.

If you have to catch a plane that evening/night, only do a desert safari if you know you will definitely be back on time.

Find the best desert safari tour for your trip.

➡️  Find one of the most affordable desert safaris here

➡️  Do you prefer the morning desert safari? Then find out more here

BEST TOURS/ACTIVITIES TO BOOK IN DUBAI FOR A DAY

BURJ KHALIFA – LEVEL 124 & 145 

BURJ KHALIFA – LEVEL 124 & 145 & 148  + DINNER

DESERT SAFARI INCL. BBQ AND MORE

TRAVEL TIPS

Let´s start with some quick travel tips to make your one day in Dubai as smooth as possible.

Where to Stay

Accommodation in Dubai is pricey. If you stay in Dubai for one night only, I suggest staying in Dubai Downtown, so you are close to the main attractions mentioned here – though it comes with a price tag.

➡️  Armani Hotel:  It is no surprise that this 5-star hotel in Downtown Dubai, just inside Burj Khalifa (it occupies 11 floors of the tallest skyscraper in the world) and Dubai Mall, is synonymous with luxury and pure elegance.  Check out the rates for Armani Hotel .

➡️  Carlton Downtown:  This 4-star property is also located close to Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall – The Financial Centre Metro Station is within walking distance and ideal for those who like to use public transportation. The pool area offers a nice view of Burj Khalifa, and from the 357 guest rooms, you can choose between deluxe rooms up to penthouse suites. Check out rates for Carlton Downtown .

➡️  Rove Downtown Dubai:  This 3-star hotel is located a few kilometers from Burj Khalifa (not far from the international airport). While the hotel is very simple and offers basic amenities, you might be lucky enough to get a room with a view – a view of Burj Khalifa! Find the best for Rove Downtown .

FINAL THOUGHTS ON DUBAI IN A DAY

Ideally, you have more than one day in Dubai. But even with such a short amount of time, one can explore Dubai with good planning and an idea of what to see. Surely, there is much more to do, but these are my favorite places in Dubai.

Whether you follow this Dubai itinerary rigorously or not – the city is certainly like no other, and though surely not perfect, it is a lot of fun.

• There are a few things to keep in mind when visiting Dubai – check out my guide on what NOT to do in Dubai so you will stay safe!

Enjoy your 1 day in Dubai!

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8 Utterly Unmissable Day Trips From Dubai to Try in 2024

Whilst we love Dubai – obviously! – we also love to get beyond the highrises and shopping malls and highly recommend you add a few day trips – even overnight trips to your Dubai itinerary.

Dubai is very central in the United Arab Emirates in terms of its geographic position. Immediately to the west of Dubai, you have the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, the largest of the 7 Emirates of the UAE with so much going on, we even have another site just about Abu Dhabi!

Then to the northeast and beyond, you have the other five Emirates, often referred to as the “ northern Emirates “, to explore.  It’s also possible to visit parts of Oman on a day trip – more on that below!

On this page, we share with you our favourite locations that can be easily reached within a day from Dubai but trust us, when you see how much there is to do, you will want to stay a bit a lot longer!

[ Distances are calculated from Downtown Dubai, and timing is subject to traffic ]

1. Best Dubai Day Trip: Abu Dhabi

Dubai to Abu Dhabi distance: approximately 160km / 1 hour 15 mins

Dubai is often mistaken as the UAE’s capital , but, in fact, it is neighbouring Abu Dhabi that holds this crown. Home to the country’s Federal Supreme Council and President of the UAE, HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed al Nahyan, it’s also home to some of the country’s most magnificent architecture and cultural sites.

So many stops that it is challenging to see them all on a Dubai day trip, but here are a few that we recommend you should try to fit into a single-day trip from Dubai:

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: one of the most stunning buildings in the world, we have a detailed guide on exactly how to visit the Grand Mosque on a day trip from Dubai here . Entry is free for all, but be respectful of prayer times; closed on Fridays until 3:00 PM.
• Qasr al Watan: The Presidential Palace: Home of the Federal Supreme Council and UAE Cabinet meetings, where foreign dignitaries are greeted and offices of the President, Vice President & Prime Minister, and the Crown Prince – a detailed guide here on what to expect inside.
• Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi : Take on the Journey Through Humanity permanent display and many seasonal exhibits in one of the city’s finest modern buildings (closed Mondays) – a detailed visitors guide can be found here .

Top Tip : the Grand Mosque can be pretty packed from mid-morning as this is when most coach tours arrive from Dubai on day trips. If you want the Mosque to yourself, aiming for first thing in the morning (9:00 AM opening but you can arrive earlier) or mid-afternoon may prove much less crowded, this is the huge benefit of taking a private tour from Dubai to Abu Dhabi.

Recommended Day Tours to Abu Dhabi from Dubai

• This best-selling day tour option from Dubai includes a full day trip to the Grand Mosque and the Presidential Palace, as well as the famed Etihad Towers observation deck as part of a shared coach group.
• Short of time? This half-day Grand Mosque-only tour from Dubai includes just your shared coach transfers to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque with plenty of time to look around.
• If you’d prefer to include the Louvre in your itinerary, we’d recommend this Abu Dhabi day tour from Dubai which includes the Grand Mosque and Louvre with English speaking guide.
• For the best Abu Dhabi tour experience, we recommend taking a Private small group tour to Abu Dhabi from Dubai so your itinerary can be as flexible as possible.
• Want to go it alone and save some cash? Check out this neat new service, the Cultural Express, that will take you to the door of the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Qasr Al Watan for FREE! The schedule lacks flexibility but it can be a great cost-saving (note, it doesn’t include a stop at the Grand Mosque).

If you are seeking to make your own way from Dubai to Abu Dhabi we suggest you read this detailed guide on all your transport options along with this detailed guide to the best Abu Dhabi attractions to plan out your own day trip or overnight trip to the capital.

2. Best Dubai Day Trip: Musandam Peninsula, Oman

Dubai to Khasab distance: 196km / approx 2.5 hours

Transporting you to a whole different country but within reasonable driving distance from Dubai, the “Norway of Arabia” awaits in the Omani exclave of Musandam . Sitting to the northeast of the northern Emirate Ras Al Khaimah, the regional capital of Khasab, Musandam can be easily reached by road – an incredibly picturesque and often breathtaking coastal drive.

From Khasab, there is a small harbour with a plentiful choice of traditional dhow boats and more modern cruising vessels. Sail out to the stunning rocky fjords where the Hajar Mountains that run through the length of Oman and the UAE dramatically end at the Strait of Hormuz.

Dolphin spotting is a favourite activity and in the warmer shoulder season, snorkelling and scuba diving are popular, albeit the better diving is on the eastern coast of the peninsula.

You will want an early start to fit in a full day of fun, and taking an organised day tour, they will help you with the Omani visas and border crossing process. It is possible to hire a car and do it all alone, but first-timers will no doubt appreciate a guide to take you through the Al Darah border crossing point and the formalities involved.

Recommended Day Tours from Dubai to Musandam

• Try this full-day tour from Dubai to Musandam if you’d like assistance all the way with your journey with meet and greet border crossing, dolphin cruise, lunch & snorkelling gear all included.
• If you want to make your own way to Khasab then join this half-day Dolphin Watching Dhow Cruise which includes just your boat tour, snorkeling kits, and snacks with an English-speaking guide.

Your drive to Musandam will also take you on a scenic tour through five of the seven Emirates ! You can see the changing landscapes as you exit the big cities and many interesting stops along the way, such as Al Rams and Dhayah Fort on the way through Ras al Khaimah (more on RAK below!)

Recommended Day Tours from Dubai to Dibba

If you do not want the formality of crossing the border, it’s also possible to take a dhow cruise to a different part of the Musandam coast, coming via Fujairah and the east coast of the UAE to an area known as Dibba.

Your boats here do not need to make a formal land crossing into Oman so no border crossing is required, but you will still be richly rewarded with dramatic coastal views.

• Check out this full-day dhow cruise option from Dibba which includes transfers to Dubai and a full day out on the water with snorkelling and dolphin-spotting opportunities.

Musandam’s raw beauty and isolation are simply breathtaking and make this one of our top picks for nature lovers visiting Dubai.

Top Tip: You get a lot more visitors to Musandam over the local weekend which starts Friday afternoon through to Sunday night. If possible, time your trip for Monday through Thursday for fewer lines at the border.

3. Best Dubai Day Trip: Al Ain

Dubai to Al Ain distance: approximately 130km / 1 hour 30 mins

Sitting to the southwest of Dubai, you will find the Oasis City of Al Ain. With deep historic roots believed to date back to the neolithic period, this is our top-pick day trip for history lovers. You will find the UAE’s only UNESCO World Heritage sites scattered in several locations across the city – a full guide to these sites can be found here .

Much of the country’s more recent history also stems from the township of Al Ain, home town to the country’s founding father, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan al Nahyan , and the birthplace of the second ruler of Abu Dhabi and the UAE, Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed al Nahyan .

Well-worth visiting spots include Al Jahili Fort, Qasr al Mawaji, Al Ain National Museum (as of 2019, closed indefinitely for renovations), and the Al Ain Palace Museum (the former Royal homestead).  You may also be fascinated by the supposedly healing hot springs of Al Mubazzarah, at the foot of Abu Dhabi Emirate’s tallest peak Jebel Hafeet.

Those travelling with kids will definitely want to try and squeeze in a trip to the Al Ain Zoo too. The best in the country, the zoo is set on large grounds with many new installations worth of a trip in themselves, including the Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, perfect for history lovers of all ages with lots of interactive displays.

Getting to Al Ain is straightforward by car [though note you are in Abu Dhabi emirate so prevailing domestic border rules will apply ].

You can make the trip to the historic centre in approximately 1.5 hours from Dubai. However, if you plan a trip up the winding road to the top of Jebel Hafeet, add another 40 minutes. You will be rewarded with spectacular views over Al Ain and neighbouring Oman.

Recommended day tours from Dubai to Al Ain

If you are unfamiliar with the UAE roads, joining an organised group to get between the highlights is recommended as the city is well spread out.

• Try this full-day tour option taking in the city’s museums and nature highlights leaving from Dubai.
• If you’d prefer the intimacy of a small private group with more local experiences thrown in, try this private tour to Al Ain with all transfers included and a flexible itinerary.

Al Ain also makes a great stopover point if you are undertaking a Visa Border Run to Oman. Plenty to fill a day but you could fit a lot more into two days as many of the city’s highlights are well spread out.

We have a detailed post here on how to plan your own trip to Al Ain here

4. Best Dubai Day Trip: Ras Al Khaimah

Dubai to Ras al Khaimah distance: approximately 110kms / 1 hour 15 minutes

Ras al Khaimah – affectionately referred to as RAK locally is best known as the UAE’s outdoor adventure playground. The stunning Hajar Mountains range runs through the Emirate and is home to the country’s tallest peak, Jebel Jais.

Jebel Jais is an adrenaline junkie’s dream, with plenty of new attractions being added every year. The world’s longest zipline allows you to speed up to 150km/hr 1680m above sea level for nearly 3kms. You can also experience Via Ferrata and the newest additions, the Jebel Jais Sky Tour – 7 different courses over 5kms through the mountains (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays).

Recommended Day tours from Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah

• You can try this tour which will pick you up from Dubai and arranges everything for your ziplining experience.
• Experience one of the UAE’s most incredible nature spots Wadi Shawka with a desert tour thrown in including Camel Rock and Fossil Rock.
• If you are seeking something a little more sedate, try this 5-hour private cultural highlights tour around the city of Ras Al Khaimah, including the Museum, Heritage Village, Fish Market, and ghost town (departs from locations in RAK).
• Another favourite for a truly unique cultural experience is heading to the tiny village of Al Rams and taking a tour of the active pearl farm Al Suwaidi Pearls – learn about this treasured part of local culture and see a live pearl diving demonstration.

We do recommend for those on a one week+ Dubai itinerary spare a few nights of their trip for staying up in Ras Al Khaimah. There are plenty of luxury resorts that line the shores of RAK and man-made Marjan Island – see some top accommodation choices in RAK here.

5. Best Dubai Day Trip: Fujairah

Dubai to Fujairah Distance : approx 120kms / 1 hour 15 minutes to Fujairah city

Taking you all the way to the country’s east coast, facing the Gulf of Oman, you will find the Emirate of Fujairah. Steeped in history, it is where you will find some of the country’s most interesting landscapes, from the azure waters and soft sands of Al Aqah to the historic forts and the country’s oldest mosque.

Many like to visit the country’s east coast for its scuba diving and snorkelling opportunities or simply experience a completely different side of the country from Dubai. You may also enjoy visiting some Sharjah exclaves Khorfakkan and Kalba, which also sit on the east coast and are surrounded by the Emirate of Fujairah.

Recommended Day Tours to Fujairah from Dubai

• Check out this diving tour to see the Dibba side of Fujairah from the water. All transportation, snorkelling gear and meals/drinks are included for a big day out on the east coast.
• History and beaches in this Dubai to Fujairah day trip which includes a journey through the mountains, Fujairah Heritage Village, Fujairah Fort and the UAE’s oldest mosque.
• Those interested in testing out their scuba diving skills in the UAE will love this day tour from Dubai to Fujairah which includes transfers, a certified instructor along with all your equipment and meals on board.

6. Best Dubai Day Trip: Yas Island Theme Parks

Dubai to Yas Island distance : approximately 115km / 1 hour

Arguably, the UAE’s best theme parks can be found on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, only around 45 minutes from Dubai Marina or an hour from Downtown Dubai down the E11 Freeway, you can easily spend a whole day – or ideally two if you are going to enjoy everything on offer.

The four big theme parks on Yas Island are:

• Yas Waterworld (outdoor water park)
• Ferrari World (indoor adrenaline and Italian-themed park)
• Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi (indoor theme park based on DC Comic characters and Looney Toon favourites)
• SeaWorld Yas Island (Indoor marine park)

Each is a top-rated attraction with plenty of thrill rides and entertainment, and for large parts of the year, there are limited lines.

Recommended Day Tours from Dubai to Yas Island

• See shared transfer options from Dubai to Yas Island
• Buy Yas Waterworld Tickets online in advance here (no transfers included) – or if you are staying in Abu Dhabi, you can combine your hotel transfer and Yas Waterworld ticket .
• When you purchase this day tour to Yas Island your Ferrari World Tickets are included, along with your transfers (this can work out cheaper than paying separately for your transfers and tickets).
• Want some culture along with your thrills? Try this Abu Dhabi day tour which includes the Grand Mosque, a drive by Abu Dhabi’s many highlights then finish your day at Ferrari World, Yas Island.
• If you love your motorsports, then perhaps a tour around the Yas Marina Circuit will be your thing, or even better the opportunity to drag your own Chevrolet Camaro around the track is your preferred experience.
• CLYMB Abu Dhabi is also well worth checking out. It has the world’s largest indoor climbing wall, and the largest indoor skydiving centre. It can be found inside Yas Mall, immediately adjacent to Ferrari World.

Top Tip: Yas Island has a small Plaza of hotels and restaurants, as well as the lively Yas Marina area at night and the newly opened Yas Bay entertainment district. It is well worth an overnight trip at least to this adventure-filled island to experience everything on offer.

There’s a good guide here on how to make use of the Yas Island Theme Parks shuttle bus service from Dubai.

7. Best Dubai Day Trip: Hatta

Dubai to Hatta distance: approximately 105km / 1 hour 20 minutes

One of the most exciting newly-developed destinations in the Dubai emirate is the area of Hatta and Hatta Dam . Sitting to the south of Dubai near the Omani border, a large amount of tourism development has been poured into this rugged area of the Dubai Emirate to create a brand new nature playground.

There is so much on offer at this destination, especially for outdoor enthusiasts. After exploring the heritage village, try kayaking or mountain biking, and enjoy the adventure sports at Hatta Wadi Hub and the Hatta Jump water park.

For an unforgettable experience, extend your stay to overnight so you can visit one of the Hatta Sedr Trailers Resort . They are limited, though, so book well in advance. They are available only in the winter season .

Recommended Day Tours from Dubai to Hatta

• See this full-day tour from Dubai, which takes you through all the major highlights of Hatta with transfers included from your Dubai hotel.
• This Hatta safari day tour provides not just a desert tour away from the city crowds but you’ll also stop at Hatta Dam and one of the more unique local attractions, the Hatta Honey Bee Garden

Top Tip: It gets much busier on the local weekend which is now Friday afternoon through Sunday. Visit mid-week and out of school holidays, it’s beautifully secluded (though do check attraction opening times mid week).

Find all your transport options between Dubai and Hatta here.

8. Best Dubai Day Trip: Dubai Desert

This is a classic suggestion for a Dubai day trip, we couldn’t leave it off a day tours round-up, even if you’re still in the Dubai emirate.

There are all sorts of desert day trips at all different times of the day to suit individual traveller needs. A “ classic desert safari ” will include an element of dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding and henna painting, followed by a traditional Bedouin feast along with musical and dancing entertainment ( except Ramadan ).

If your focus is on camel riding, we suggest you check out this article on how to get your fill of camel experiences in Dubai – there are plenty of them!

Alternatively, if you’d like a more immersive experience, check out this guide to overnight desert camping experiences.

Recommended Day Tours to the Desert from Dubai

With so many desert safaris available these days, it can be hard to choose between them.

Some of them such as Platinum Heritage are premium tour providers. Their focus is on the desert itself and connecting with the environment. You will enjoy vintage Landrovers taking you sedately through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve , falconry displays and traditional food, both day and evening tours are available.

Alternatively, some camps and day tours are set up very specifically with the needs of adrenaline junkies in mind. Your local driver will know his dunes back to front and find the most thrilling path into the camp, followed by options at your camp to hire dune buggies, fat bikes and sandboards to explore the dunes differently.

These are our top picks for Dubai desert day tours to try:

• This Al Khayma Premium Red Dunes and Camel Safari tour is one of the most booked in Dubai for a reason – enjoy dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding and camel feeding, with falconry and a traditional dinner. Always highly rated and deliver on customer service.
• Early starter? This Morning desert safari with Camel Riding & Sandboarding (plus optional quad biking ) might be the best choice for you.
• On a budget, one of the best value evening desert safari and BBQ options includes your pickups and dune bashing, with add-on activities possible.
• See our complete guide here to tours focused on Dune Buggy and adrenaline experiences in the Dubai desert .

For an absolutely unique and unforgettable Dubai experience, we recommend you try hot air ballooning at dawn above the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve:

• Try this sunrise balloon ride with breakfast and falconry show – including your transfers to and from central Dubai.
• Or combine hot air ballooning with a camel trek & quad biking adventure an Arabic breakfast is included before transfers back to your Dubai hotel after an action-packed start to the day!

Whenever you are headed into the desert, we always recommend trainers are a more practical option than sandals or flip flops – they will, of course, fill with sand too but you’ll find it easier to walk about. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat any time of year visiting Dubai – you can see our full Dubai desert checklist here!

W e always recommend visitors to Dubai to leave plenty of time to take in the highlights in the other Emirates as well.  Much of the natural beauty and culture of the country and region lies far beyond the city. 

If you’d prefer to make your own way around the Emirates to experience some of these highlights, we recommend you head over to our guide to driving in Dubai . Understand more about driving conditions, car rental options and whether self-drive is the better option for you.

If you’re interested in hiring a driver for a set number of hours, try a service such as GetTransfer . Drivers can bid on your journey, making it highly competitive and at a fixed price for all-day convenience, which you may not find with a group tour.

Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai

• Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Dubai , a handy guide on what to pack , and top tips for first-timers on the do’s and don’ts, laws, and customs to be aware of.
• Check out this incredible list of 150+ places you should visit when you’re in Dubai .
• Pick up a Dubai Pass from iVenture or a Go City Dubai Pass to save up to 50% on top Dubai attractions.
• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !!!
• Discover the best areas to stay in Dubai , or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to the Dubai Travel Blog

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links . Dubai Travel Planner

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9 of the best day trips from Dubai: culture, wildlife, and adventure

Jan 13, 2022 • 6 min read

From cultural sites to incredible outdoor adventures, here are the best day trips from Dubai © Walter Bibikow / Getty Images

If you've already tackled the best things to do in Dubai , how about exploring some of the neighboring emirates? You’ll find everything from mosques and museums to mountain bike trails and ziplines within day-trip distance.

Here are the best places to discover from  Dubai  in a day.

It takes just 90 minutes to get to Abu Dhabi from Dubai

With its onion-shaped domes and glowing white marble, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is a must-see. Located 90 minutes from Downtown Dubai, the mosque runs free tours that take place daily, except during Friday prayers. Over on Saadiyat Island, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is an essential stop for art and architecture aficionados . Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, the building is as much of a draw as the 600 artworks on display.

How to get to Abu Dhabi from Dubai: A taxi costs around Dhs200 ($55) each way. You can also catch a public bus (route E100 or E101) for Dhs28 ($7) one way.

Mleiha is home to an important archaeological site 

Located in Sharjah's central region, Mleiha is one of the most important archaeological sites in the United Arab Emirates . The Mleiha Archaeological Centre details the history of the region from the Paleolithic era and offers guided tours of the Bronze Age tombs and pre-Islamic forts. Feeling adventurous? Explore the wild beauty of the desert during a guided trek, a 4WD tour or a fat bike tour, or paraglide from one of Mleiha’s tallest peaks.

How to get to Mleiha from Dubai: Mleiha is 47 miles (75km) east of Dubai. You can rent a car, or check with the archaeological center in advance to see if return transport is available.

Hatta is perfect for outdoor adventure

Backed by the craggy Hajar Mountains, the picturesque Dubai exclave of Hatta is made for outdoor adventure. The Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre has 31 miles (50km) of graded single-track trails, and you can rent bikes from Adventure HQ . For walkers, a 5.5 mile (9km) trail sets off from near the camping area, continuing past Hatta Heritage Village to the artificial Hatta Dam. Here, you can rent kayaks and pedalos to cruise the turquoise waters.

How to get to Hatta from Dubai: You can rent a car to drive to Hatta, 84 miles (135km) southeast of Dubai, or take the E16 bus.

Sharjah is a cultural hub, packed with museums and galleries

Just 18 miles (30km) from Downtown Dubai, Sharjah city is known as the cultural capital of the UAE and for good reason, with more than 20 museums and galleries. Start at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization , which displays more than 5000 artifacts from the Muslim world, and then wander down to the Sharjah Heritage Museum for an insight into Emirati culture. A 10-minute stroll away, Sharjah Art Museum is a must for fans of contemporary Arab art.

How to get to Sharjah from Dubai: A taxi costs around Dhs90 ($24.50) each way. There are several public bus routes that go in that direction too (E303, E303A, E304, E306, E307 or E107A), which costs Dhs10 ($2.75).

Visit the Unesco World Heritage-listed oasis in Al Ain

Filled with more than 147,000 date palms, the Unesco World Heritage-listed Al Ain Oasis was once a vital stop on the caravan route crisscrossing the Arabian Peninsula. You can stroll the shaded walkways, see how the ancient falaj (irrigation) network carries water to the palms and visit the hi-tech eco-center. Stop by Al Ain Palace Museum , where Sheikh Zayed once held court, and the photogenic Al Jahili Fort , built in 1891 to defend the city’s precious plantations.

How to get to Al Ain from Dubai: Al Ain is located in the emirate of Abu Dhabi, around 95 miles (150km) southeast of Dubai. Public bus E201 runs between Dubai and Al Ain's bus station and takes 1 hour and 45 minutes.

Kalba is the perfect day trip for wildlife watching

This east coast exclave of Sharjah is a great place to see some of Arabia’s elusive wildlife. Keen birdwatchers should bring their binoculars, as Khor Kalba’s mangroves are an important habitat for the beautiful white-collared kingfisher. On the outskirts of the city, Al Hefaiyah Mountain Conservation Centre is home to critically endangered Arabian leopard, Arabian wolf, tahr and desert lynx. At the nearby Kalba Bird of Prey Centre , free-flying demonstrations take place twice a day in the outdoor amphitheater (except Mondays).

How to get to Kalba from Dubai: Kalba is 80 miles (130km) east of Dubai, so rent a car to get there and around.

Take a road trip to Jebel Jais, the UAE's tallest peak

The starkly beautiful Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah is the UAE’s tallest peak at 6345ft (1934m). To enjoy the area’s craggy charms, take a scenic drive up the wickedly winding mountain road. There are rest stops along the route, and the viewing deck at 4100ft promises even more phenomenal views. If you're after an adrenaline rush in RAK, you can launch from the Jebel Jais Flight Zip Line , the world's longest, which reaches speeds of up to 95mph (150km/h). You could also tackle the half-mile-long Jebel Jais Via Ferrata , a four-hour experience that includes three thrilling ziplines of its own.

How to get to Jebel Jais from Dubai: You’ll need to rent a car to get to Jebel Jais, which is 100 miles (160km) northeast of Dubai.

Go diving or snorkeling in the waters near Fujairah

Stretching along the Gulf of Oman, Fujairah has better visibility and more diverse marine life than the waters off Dubai. Roughly 350ft (100m) offshore at Al Aqah, Snoopy Island is popular with snorkelers, thanks to schools of clownfish and regular turtle sightings. Local dive centers offer shore dives and boat trips to popular sites such as Dibba Rock, Coral Gardens and various wrecks.

How to get to Fujairah from Dubai: Al Aqah is 100 miles (165km) northeast of Dubai. Rent a car or check whether the dive centers include transport from Dubai in their packages.

Cruise the inlets of Oman's Musandam Peninsula

Dubbed "the Norway of Arabia," the Omani exclave of Musandam is famous for its fjord-like inlets and aquamarine waters. Numerous companies offer cruises aboard traditional wooden dhows, with dolphin sightings all but guaranteed. Tours typically include round-trip transport and a buffet lunch, with plenty of time for swimming and snorkeling. Boats depart from Dibba on the east coast or Khasab at the northern tip of the peninsula, with the latter offering more spectacular scenery.

This day trip from Dubai requires some advance planning. If you're planning to go to Dibba, know that you cannot enter the Omani side of Dibba (Dibba Al Baya) as an independent traveler. All people entering here need to have a free permit, which is provided by any of Dibba Al Baya's tour operators when you make a booking. The process is exceedingly easy for those on UAE tourist visas. When booking your activities, email a copy of your passport photo page and UAE entry stamp page to the tour operator; they will then organize the permit and meet you at the border with it in hand.

How to get to the Musandam Peninsula from Dubai: Dibba is less than two hours' drive from Dubai, while Khasab is three hours each way. Check Oman's visa requirements before you go.

You might also like: 25 best things to do in Dubai    Best things to do with kids in Dubai    Top 7 beaches in Dubai   

This article was first published Dec 7, 2017 and updated Jan 13, 2022.

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Day Trip to Dubai From Abu Dhabi – Transport Tips & Itinerary Ideas

For anyone making their first trip to the UAE, a day in Dubai is a must. Dubai’s futuristic cityscape and glitzy facade really has to be seen to be believed, but underneath that facade is a dynamic city with a proud heritage and a love of tradition.

Whilst there are lots of organised day trips available, not all itineraries provide you with the opportunity to take your time and soak up the Dubai atmosphere. By planning your own trip to Dubai from Abu Dhbai, you are more flexible and can spend time where it suits you best.

In this article, we explain how to get to Dubai from Abu Dhabi and some of the things that you really shouldn’t miss when you go to Dubai, as well as taking a look at some of the guided tours available.

Rental Cars From Dubai to Abu Dhabi

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How to get to Dubai from Abu Dhabi

Driving from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is relatively easy. It takes approximately 75 minutes to drive from Downtown Abu Dhabi to Downtown Dubai (Dubai Mall/Business Bay Area) along the E11 Sheikh Zayed Road.

Once in Dubai, the road system can seem a little confusing, so do take your time so you don’t miss your exit (Using guided navigation is a must! Locally, Waze is a very popular app or trusty old Google Maps).

There are plentiful car hire locations in Abu Dhabi, both in the Downtown area of the city and at the airport. You will just need your international driver’s license or IDP to hire a car (Renters under 25 years old may pay a young driver’s premium).

Pricing will vary significantly based on the model of vehicle you choose to drive.

• If you don’t want to do the driving, why not try Get Transfer? You can ask drivers to bid on your journey and choose the type of vehicle you want – sort of like Uber or Careem but more personalised and you’re locking in your journey for the whole day.
• We have a complete guide here to all our handy tips for self-driving in Abu Dhabi and the UAE to help you decide if you’re confident enough to get behind the wheel.

If you do want to take public transport , bus numbers E100, E101 and E102 travel between Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

The E100 and E101 routes begin at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (Al Wahda).

• The E100 takes over two hours and costs AED 25 one way to Al Ghubaiba Bus Station (connects to Green Line Metro in Bur Dubai).
• The E101 takes around 85 minutes and terminates at Ibn Battuta Bus Station , where you can connect with the Red Line Metro or local bus services. It also costs AED 25

The E102 starts in Mussafah and travels via Abu Dhabi International Airport to Ibn Battuta Mall Dubai, which takes approximately 115 minutes. The fee is also AED 25 one way.

Taking a taxi from Abu Dhabi to Dubai is by far the quickest and easiest way of travelling between the two cities if you don’t have your own car. A taxi from Abu Dhabi to Dubai Mall costs around AED 300 one way. Once in Dubai, taxis are easy to find and are a fairly inexpensive way of getting around the city.

You can find our complete transport guide between Abu Dhabi and Dubai here

Suggested Day Trip Destinations: Dubai from Abu Dhabi

There are literally hundreds of places you could visit in Dubai on a day trip , but we’ve narrowed it down for you to three of the most popular Dubai locations for a unique day trip experience.

A day at the world’s biggest shopping centre should not be missed by any visitor to the UAE. Even if you don’t plan on spending your hard-earned cash on designer swag, the sheer awesomeness of this ultra-chic mall is sure to impress even the most ardent shopping centre critic.

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

At the heart of Dubai Mall is the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Famous for its massive tank and underwater tunnel, the aquarium is home to 33,000 different species of fish and other aquatic creatures. Tickets start at AED 169, with various add-ons. Or you can simply admire the main tank from inside the Dubai Mall.

Shop til you drop

For those that enjoy shopping, some of the flagship stores include Bloomingdales and French department giant La Galleries Lafayette. There is also a designer section of the mall featuring brands such as Armani, Gucci and Dolce and Gabbana.

If you fancy some new threads but don’t want to break the bank, you’ll also find international high-street favourites such as H&M, Zara, M&S, American Eagle and Muji.

Part of the mall is designed like a traditional souk and contains many smaller shops selling finely crafted jewellery, carpets, pashminas and other middle-eastern souvenirs. Adored with fountains and intricate fretwork, the network of alley-like passages join together under a large dome where you will find, rather randomly, the illuminated fossilised skeleton of a diplodocus.

Time to eat in Dubai

If you’re looking for a bite to eat, the Mall basement is a culinary delight. Here you will find international favourites such as Wagamama and Texas Roadhouse, as well as more local flavours. There are a number of specialist luxury chocolate and date shops, such as Laderach, Neuhaus and Bateel, as well as various places to buy ice-cream.

At the Top – Burj Khalifa

As if the mall wasn’t enough if its own right, the whole complex is overshadowed by the magnificent Burj Khalifa – the world’s tallest building. Visit the ‘At the Top’ experience for magnificent views of the city and coastline. Pre-booking this part of your Dubai day trip is a must:

• Tickets to At The Top start from AED 169, which includes access to the viewing platforms on levels 124 and 125
• You can upgrade your ticket to a skip-the-line Premium experience with VIP access to Level 148, the highest deck open to the public
• Sunset tickets are the most popular, so you can expect to pay more for these valuable time slots!
• You can also look out for packages that include brunch or combo tickets with the Dubai Aquarium are always good value.

Access to the tower is gained at the basement level of the Mall (follow the signs marked ‘At the Top’). Do expect queuing to take up a significant portion of your visit; for those tight on time, we always suggest skipping the journey up as there’s only so much you can fit in one day in Dubai!

• One Perfect Day in Abu Dhabi: Visitor Itinerary Ideas in 2024
• Bike Rental in Abu Dhabi: Your Cycling Options Explained
• We have a complete guide over here to planning your trip to Burj Khalifa

The Dubai Fountains

After a day of shopping (or visiting Dubai Mall’s other attractions), head outside to the Dubai Mall Fountains. These mesmerising musical fountains form a spectacular display every thirty minutes from 6:00 pm until 11:00 pm daily (timings differ during Ramadan).

• You can enhance your Dubai Fountains experience by taking one of the traditional abra boats out onto the lake

In stark contrast to the glitz and glamour of Dubai Mall, a day in the old part of Dubai will give you an insight into the history and traditions of this rapidly changing global city.

Start your day with a traditional abra ride along the creek or make your way through the souks towards the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (also known as Al Bastikiya).

At present, Dubai Museum and the Al Fahidi fort are under renovation, but there is plenty to see in this area. The neighbourhood is studded with art galleries, workshops and quaint cafes. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding is a must-stop for those wanting to learn more about Islamic culture.

Don’t miss the coffee museum, where you can sample different varieties of coffee from all over the world as well as see the traditional instruments used in their preparation.

Jumeirah Mosque

Another option away from the shopping malls is a visit to the beautiful Jumeirah Mosque.

• Tours of the mosque are available daily at 10:00 am and 2:00 pm with no booking required.
• There is a charge of AED 35 per person, which includes light refreshments at the end of your visit.
• The Mosque is located on Jumeirah Beach Road, only around a 15-minute drive from the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and can easily be combined with a trip to Dubai Creek and Al Bastikiya.
• For more details and to plan your visit to Jumeirah Mosque, click here.

Another day trip option from Dubai features a trip to Dubai Marina and the Jumeirah Beach area known as JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residences).

Start your day with breakfast or a morning coffee by the waterside at Dubai Marina Mall before admiring the yachts in the swanky marina. You can easily walk from the Marina to the JBR in the cooler months, but from April to October, taking a water taxi may be a less sweaty option.

JBR is a beachside boulevard jammed full of shops and restaurants, as well as frequent pop-up markets and street entertainers. Access to the beach is free (deck chair payable), and there are showers and changing facilities available for a small fee. In addition to the beach, there is a playground and splash park for children as well as other sporting facilities.

It is possible to take boat trips from Dubai Marina along the coast as far as the Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Hotel’s iconic sail-shaped hotel. This is a chilled-out option that allows you to see some of Dubai’s major landmarks whilst relaxing on the deck or in the comfort of the air-conditioned cabin.

The Burj Al Arab do take lunch and afternoon tea reservations from outside guests, so if you want to experience the delights of this 7-star mega-hotel without actually staying the night, this might be the way to do it. For more details, click here.

In addition to scheduled boat tours from Dubai Marina, there are numerous luxury yacht trips available to book in advance, like this one.

As the sun sets, watch the marina light up and treat yourself to sundowners in one of the Marina’s many rooftop bars and restaurants.

Dubai has a lot to offer for the evening visitor. As the city lights up for the evening, it comes alive as people step out to enjoy the cool evenings.

Apart from Dubai’s nighttime wining and dining scene, Dubai has a number of nocturnal attractions that you might wish to incorporate into your Dubai day or evening trip:

Dubai Glow Garden

Based at Zabeel Park, Dubai Garden Glow is a seasonal attraction featuring a variety of amazing illuminated creations. The park covers a huge area and uses more than 10 million LED lights to illuminate a range of creations made from recycled materials.

Adjacent to the Glow Garden (and accessed through the same entrance) is Dubai Dinosaur Park, a space filled with realistic animatronic models as well as some hands-on dinosaur-based activities.

• Tickets cost AED 70 and are valid for both the Glow Garden and the Dinosaur Park.
• Open 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm daily. For more details, click here.

A night at the Opera

Dubai’s stunning Opera House is the perfect place for a glamorous night out. To find out about upcoming shows and to book tickets, click here.

A mesmerising stage performance that tells of a young fisherwoman’s search for a missing pearl featuring acrobatics and pyrotechnics as well as motorcycles. This really has to be seen to be believed! For more details and to book tickets to La Perle, click here .

Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise

Watch the city glimmer from the water on a Dubai Marina Dinner Cruise. There are lots of options to choose from.

Dubai has a fantastic Metro system, and it is fairly easy to get from place to place on the main Metro route through the heart of the city; you will need to get all members of your group over 5 years old a Nol card .

Taxis are, however, a much more convenient option when you’re only briefly day-tripping to Dubai. Don’t underestimate the heat and distances involved in Dubai; walking is often not the best option, even for fairly short distances.

Alternatively, you could buy yourself a ticket for the hop-on-hop-off Dubai Big Bus Tour, which stops at all of Dubai’s major sights and attractions. For more details on Dubai Big Bus, click here.

If you book your tickets directly with Big Bus you can get a combined ticket for Big Bus Abu Dhabi and Dubai – two city tours in one ticket!

Guided Tours From Abu Dhabi to Dubai

Guided tours are a great way to see a new city for the first time. Whilst Dubai is a relatively easy city to explore alone, it’s reassuring to know that you have a guide who will take you to the best spots and teach you what you need to know about them.

Tour groups are often able to jump queues, and lunch reservations are often made in advance, taking the hassle out of you finding a table in what can be very busy areas. In addition to dealing with all of the practicalities once you’re in Dubai, tours to Dubai from Abu Dhabi include transport in the price.

We recommend booking day tours to Dubai through websites like Get Your Guide and Viator as there are certain guarantees that you don’t receive if you book with most trip providers directly. This includes clearly outlined cancellation policies.

These are some of the organized day trips that you might like to consider:

There are a number of guided day trips on offer that offer a combination of the sites listed above. One of the most popular is the Full Day Dubai City Tour . Whilst you do see a lot on this tour, you are limited in terms of how much time you can spend in each place.

Half-day tours featuring the Jumeirah Mosque, the Al Fahidi Fort and Museum, Dubai Spice Souk and the Burj Khalifa are also available. These give you the afternoon at leisure to enjoy Dubai Mall or head back to the JBR for some R&R.

The Aladdin Tour with Walks of Dubai comes very highly recommended. The tour takes three hours and covers the Al Fahidi Historical neighbourhood, a ride on an abra, visits to the souks and lots of local drinks and snacks.

For most full-day Dubai city tours you do need to make your way to Dubai yourself. However, the following options include transport from Abu Dhabi and back again in an air-conditioned coach.

Duration : 9 Hours

Cost: Approximately AED315 (US $ 86)

This guide trip to Dubai includes:

• A professional guide
• Transfer from Abu Dhabi
• A visit to Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Fort (temporarily closed Feb 2023)
• Time to soak up the atmosphere at Deira’s Gold and Spice Souks
• Photo stops at major landmarks including the Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab
• An Abra ride on Dubai Creek
• Time for lunch at Dubai Mall*
• Optional visit to Atlantis and the Hidden Chambers Aquarium.

*Note that this option does not include admission to the Burj Khalifa ‘At the Top experience’.

For more details and how to book this Dubai day tour, click here.

Dubai Tour, including entry to the Burj Khalifa (from Abu Dhabi) with Gray Line- Kurban Tours

Duration: 8 hours

Cost: Approximately AED 576 (US$ 157)

This Dubai day trip includes:

• Photo stops on the Palm, Jumeirah Beach and at The Burj Al Arab
• A 25-minute stop at the Jumeirah Mosque (NB photo stop, not the tour)
• Pass by Dubai Gold Souk
• Photo stop at Zabeel Palace
• 3-hours at Dubai Mall, including access to the 124th floor At The Top, Burj Khalifa.

For more details and to read reviews of this day tour to Dubai, click here.

If you’re happy to get your own way to Dubai, then these are some day tour ideas you can pick up from within the city:

If you want to get a bird’s eye view of the city, there are a number of helicopter tours available which could be incorporated into your day trip. Rides last from 15 minutes to 1 hour.

To find out more about Dubai helicopter tours, click here.

Have a great time in Dubai!

We hope that this article will help you in making the most of your day trip to Dubai. There really is no shortage of things to do in this glamorous yet traditional city.

If you’d like to spend more than a day in Dubai and need some help with your travel planning, do take a look at our sister website, Dubai Travel Planner , where we take you through itineraries from 1 to 7 days in Dubai, plus we have a detailed guide on where to stay in Dubai to make the most of your short trip.

All information within this article was correct at the time of writing in early 2023.

Before you go… Important things to consider planning a trip to Abu Dhabi

• Pop into our essential planni ng information page , it includes everything you need to know about getting around Abu Dhabi , a handy guide on what to pack as well as top tips for first-timers on the dos and don’ts, laws, and customs in the UAE .
• Check the most up-to-date COVID entry rules for Abu Dhabi .
• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !
• Discover the best places to stay in Abu Dhabi , or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to the Abu Dhabi Travel Blog

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our hotel or tour recommendation links . Abu Dhabi Travel Planner

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