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Dubai Metro

The Dubai Metro is the city’s modern rail system. It is a great way to get around Dubai, with trains running every few minutes from early morning until late at night.

Fares are very reasonable, and there is a range of tickets available to suit everyone’s needs. Most of the city’s most popular tourist attractions and iconic landmarks are close to a station.

In this article, we will provide all the information you need to know about Dubai Metro.

By the start of the millennium, fast population growth plus rapidly increasing numbers of tourists was putting a huge burden on Dubai’s transport infrastructure.

The Dubai Metro was the city’s answer to the problem. Construction began in 2006 with the first stations opening in 2009.

Trains are driverless and include first-class, and women and children-only sections. Extensive window panels offer great views of the city.

The Dubai Metro consists of two lines: Red and Green .

The main section of the Red Line runs from Centrepoint (near Dubai International Airport) to Expo 2020 . This section includes the Route 2020 extension .

A branch line of the Red Line runs from Jabal Ali to UAE Exchange .

The Green Line runs from Etisalat Metro Station in Al Qusais to Creek in Al Jaddaf.

Passengers can transfer between lines at either Union or BurJuman (formerly Khalid Bin Al Waleed).

The Metro is connected to the Dubai Tram system at SO BHA Realty Metro Station and DMCC Metro Station , both on the Red Line near Dubai Marina.

The Dubai Tram connects to the Palm Jum eirah Monorail at Palm Jumeir ah Tram Station .

A route map of the Dubai Metro system can be found here .

A link to download the pdf version of this map can be found on this page .

The Dubai Metro runs every day of the week. Operating times for both the Red Line and Green Line are:

• Monday to Thursday – 5:00 am to 12:00 am (midnight)
• Friday – 5:00 am to 1:00 am (next day)
• Saturday – 5:00 am to 12:00 am (midnight)
• Sunday – 8:00 am to 12:00 am (midnight)

Today’s train times can also be viewed using the RTA’s S’hail app.

Train timings are frequent though, so no timetable is really necessary. For example, on the Red Line trains arrive every 2 or 3 minutes at peak times, and every 5 minutes during off-peak hours.

A journey along the entire length of the Red Line (from Centrepoint to Expo 2020 ) takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. The Green Line is shorter. The trip from Etisalat to Creek takes 40 minutes.

Dubai Metro fares are cheap compared to similar systems around the world.

Contactless tickets or cards must be purchased before commencing a journey. They are available at all Metro stations, bus stations, and authorised sales agents (Carrefour, Spinneys, etc.)

Train Layout

The layout of a Dubai Metro train is designed to be as user-friendly as possible, with clear signage and information for passengers. The trains are also comfortable and spacious, with plenty of room for luggage.

All Dubai Metro train has a standard layout. Each train has five carriages. At one end of the train, the carriage is divided into two cabins, with one being a Gold Class cabin. The carriage at the other end of the train is Women & Children.

This new layout was introduced in July 2019.

The Gold Class cabin features leather seats and is typically less crowded. The Women & Children carriage offers extra space for strollers.

The remaining areas of the train are for Silver Class (standard class) passengers.

Fines are imposed for passengers traveling in the wrong class of cabin.

The Dubai Metro is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city. There are three large park-and-ride facilities.

Car parking is free for Metro users.

Dubai International Airport is one of the world’s busiest airports and the most popular transit point for people travelling to and from the city.

The Dubai Metro offers 2 dedicated stops for Dubai International Airport; Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 . They are perfect for both inbound and outbound air passengers. Travelling on the Dubai Metro is cheaper than taking a taxi .

Dubai International Airport is situated at the eastern end of the Red Line.

Passengers are permitted to carry 2 items of luggage on a Metro train (one large suitcase and one piece of hand baggage). The dimensions of the suitcase should not be greater than 81 cm x 58 cm x 30 cm. The hand baggage should measure less than 55 cm x 38 cm x 20 cm.

Suitcases should be stored in the dedicated luggage area.

Connections

The Dubai Metro is integrated with the city’s other modes of public transport.

Feeder buses are shuttle bus services that transport passengers from Dubai Metro stations to local destinations. Feeder bus services have prefixed with the letter F e.g. F01.

Most other bus services also stop at, or near, Dubai Metro stations.

Most bus stations are next to, or near, a Dubai Metro station. The major bus stations are Al Ghubaiba and Gold Souq. Al Ghubaiba Bus Station is near Al Ghubaiba Metro Station . Gold Souq Bus Station is close to Gold Souq Metro Station .

Free WiFi is available on the Dubai Metro. To connect to the service, choose ‘WiFi UAE’ from the list of networks.

The free wireless internet service is provided by du, a local telecommunications company.

A premium (paid) option is also available. It offers higher speeds and longer browsing sessions.

The WiFi service works in all Dubai Metro carriages. The service is also available in many other locations; Dubai Metro stations, bus stops, shopping malls, beaches, etc.

Mobile phone coverage is good across the entire network.

Disabled Access

The Dubai Metro is an excellent option for those with disabilities.

The entire network is wheelchair-friendly. All stations have elevators between the station concourse and train platforms.

The train floor is level with the platform and the gap between them is small. Carriage doors open automatically. Wheelchair users can easily roll on and off the train.

All carriages have dedicated spaces reserved for wheelchair users.

Accessible toilets are available at all stations and all ticket offices are wheelchair-friendly.

The Dubai metro has many features which cater to the visually impaired. For example, tactile floor paths guide these passengers from the station entrances to the platforms. There are clear audio announcements in English and Arabic.

All Dubai Metro stations are listed in the table below. Stations are listed alphabetically. The table can be sorted by travel zone, line, etc.

Clicking on the name of each station will take you to a detailed listing for that station.

Is Dubai Metro closed on Friday?

Friday is the holy day for Muslims and the first day of the weekend in Dubai. Until 2015 the Dubai Metro was closed on Friday mornings. It now starts running at 10 am on Fridays.

Does Dubai Metro go to the airport?

The Red Line of the Dubai Metro has two stops at Dubai International Airport; Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 . Once you have picked up your luggage, follow the Dubai Metro signs and purchase a ticket at the station.

Is luggage allowed on the Dubai Metro?

Passengers are only permitted to bring two pieces of luggage onto the Metro; one large suitcase and one small suitcase. The dimensions of the large suitcase should not exceed 81cm x 58cm x 30cm. The dimensions of a small suitcase should be no larger than 55cm x 38cm x 20cm.

Comments and Additional Information

Can one travel from Dubai International airport to The Golden Tulip hotel by Metro or as close as possible using a Visa card to pay without purchasing a ticket?

I am planning a trip to Dubai next week (22 to 27 Feb) and I see that the Metro Red Line is closed on many days for the construction of Route 2020. Do you have an exact schedule of the closing times.

The information you require has already been added as a note at the top of this page.

I love the Dubai Metro. It is the greatest way to moving from one place to another at a low price. This is the main reason to like it.

Why are the Metro timings not connected with the shopping mall timings. I am retail sales staff. It is very difficult to pay taxi money when the metro is closed in the night. I have a very small salary.

Officials should always check the passengers boarding the Gold Class Cabin. Because some of them are not even using a Gold Nol Card and it is unfair for those like me who are using a Gold Nol Card as we are paying extra.

Is there a metro station that goes to the gold and spice markets in old Dubai from the Shangri La hotel in Sheik Zayed Road?

I am going to visit Dubai for 30 days. I want to purchase Blue Card Standard. Can I pay through credit card for the Blue Card?

Happy Birthday Dubai Metro

I read on this site as last train @ 12 pm midnight,, rushed to the station @ Dubai Mall to find that the station is closed @ 11.30 pm ..

It will be nice if this information is updated in your site ??

Thanks Mohamed

Read the note under the timings. Timings are for the Metro as a whole. To find the time of the last train/station closing time use the RTA online tool.

Please mention last train from Dubai Airport to Bur Dubai.

Meto is a nice and fast way to travel around Dubai

i love the dubai metro as well as the dubai tram

Are female tourists allowed to use the women and children cabin or only female Dubai inhabitants?

Yes. Female tourists can use the women and children cabin.

All female despite of the age, status or appearance are allowed to use the female and children cabin. However, a very important point to note is that if a pregnant woman or an old or a disabled woman come across, you are obliged to offer her your seat.

Question, Does it cost extra for 1st class, or women and children cabin tickets?

For gold class. Yes its double.

For women and childrens cabin. Its for free but yeah, obviously its for ONLY women and children.

You need Gold Nol Card to be in 1st Class which charges higher than normal cards, And, No need of any extra costs for Women and Children Cabin.

First class – yes. Women and children – no.

Yes, first class tickets are more expensive. No extra charges for women cabin.

Yes. About twice the standand cost.

The metro was closed before midnight. Why?

Well the metro runs on electricity and the number of commuters beyond midnight is less or no more. So the train is stopped to cut costs and to also use that time for maintenance of the train to ensure effective movement during day.

Dubai Metro is great value for money if compared with taxi fares. It is really convenient.

Dubai Metro staff is helpful and patient.

Dubai airport staff, especially Visa issuance, Immigration and security needs to be more polite. One problem across many public places in Dubai – staff / employees of various government departments, retail stores are on mobiles phones calling / using messenger apps while they are on the floor and on duty. It looks unprofessional and needs to improve keeping in mind strict rules in Dubai.

Many Dubai local staff are rude and sarcastic at airports, metros and get impatient with passengers / travelers. I have experienced this on my two visits in one year.

Overall, Dubai is a great city – offers amazing nightlife, shopping big brands or brands on discount. Dubai is one of the cleanest cities and the culture is great. The deserts during desert safari needs to be free of plastic bags, bottles, eatable packets. Lot of places the desert had lot of litter which is sad. The travelers need to take care of cleanliness as well.

The plastic shopping bags given at retail outlets at shopping malls, shops at Dubai metro and Dubai airport should be banned. Plastic is one of the greatest polluters of environment

Instead of banning plastic bags, think of other ways that consumers can carry purchased goods. Plastic may be bad but it has a use. Before banning plastics for consumers, manufacturers and retailers should also ban plastic from their products. No point banning the use of plastic bags when everything else you buy has plastic in them!

Awesome. Well said awesome ?

I love traveling in Dubai metro! It’s the best! But I feel there is no control or monitoring on the prices on items sold in the shops in the station , e.g. Like in Zoom! A 250 ml low fat milk gets sold for 2.50 dhs, where as outside it is 1.75. U can understand a 25fil increase but 75 fil is quite like robbing the passengers!! Other items too hv a price difference of 7fil to 1 dhs. Pls check this. Thank u

Lot of non gold card users in the gold cabin. Can we have this rectified please. Its unfair for the gold card holders as we dont have space to sit.

I too get the gold pass when ever I am in Dubai and regularly have to stand. Being a senior citizen that is not very comfortable at all. Somebody should be able check the passes before entry. Thank you

It may be inadvertently by newly arriving working or visiting people.

Therefore, authorities should be lenient in penalty, after ascertaining the passengers arrival in the city/UAE. If the passengers are residing in the city already for six months, then a penalty should be imposed.

How do you know that your fellow passengers are non-gold card holders? Did you check?

Any plans of linking the Metro to Sharjah, it will be a big relief for the daily sharjah commuters

Note: the last train to UAE exchange departs union station at 11:10pm. I’ve been stranded before and i had take 60 dirham taxi all the way to Dubai media city

We should always keep in mind that when the last train leaves as at when it leaves, it will take it time to get to it’s last station and that time shouldn’t be later than 12am. Therefore, the time the last train leaves every station on it’s route differs and depends on the nearness to it’s last train station. For example, from Union to Rashidiya is about 15mins, the last train to Rashidiya from Union will arrive Union metro station at/between 11:40-11:45 for it to terminate at Rashidiya at a time not exceeding 12am.

Is there an options for those whom bike to the Metro?

Can one bring a bike inside? Is there a special (cargo) vagon?

Are there bike parking spots where one can lock a bike and take the train back and forth?

I’ll be working in the business bay and living close to the Marina; it would be great to bike from home to the train and walk from the train to the office.

I have seen so many bike parking spots at the metro stations, but I think not all the metro station has them.

Yes, I have seen commuters carrying bikes inside the metro stations.

The Dubai Metro is a fantastic way to travel in Dubai. As it is relatively new, it is extremely clean and safe. We have been to Dubai twice and both times we bought an all day pass and got on and off whenever we saw something interesting. When we became tired, we just traveled on the train. Well done Dubai!

Very informative website. One question Does Day pass for 1 day entitles all day travel on both the lines ( Green & Red ) and one can get off & on any where all day along . Please reply

If I need to be at Emirates Tower Station at 6:25am, what time should I catch the train from Rashidiya?

The whole Journey from Rashidiya to Emirates Tower should take about 40 to 50 minutes. But on a safer side it is advisable to take the 5:30 metro.

Can I get the metro from the cruise terminal (Port Rashid) to downtown Dubai to visit the Dubai Mall and fountain, thanks

We will be in Dubai in 3 weeks as part of a cruise, is there a metro station close to Port Rashid and Burj Khalifa?

I don’t speak Arab. Will it be easy to use the Dubai metro on my next visit? What’s the difference between the red and blue line. The metered taxis were too expensive and i would really want to move around this time by the metro on my next visit. I need a guide as i have seen that it’s quite easy to use. Thanks for your help

This is Dubai. Locals speak English.

I want know that. There is have a parking place in UAE Exchange station

CAN I CARRY TWO CABIN BAGGAGE AND 1 HAND LUGGAGE BY METRO TRAIN

The announcement in Metro while it leaves or approaches a station is always as “the next station”. Probably the announcement can be corrected while approaching a station as “the current station or approaching station is” by its name rather than announcing as the next station is” which is confusing.

Now some of the Metro Stations have been renamed e.g UAE Exchange. So i got confused when i returned from my vacation. Therefore people who went on their vacation for a short period of time, please dont get confused and see the map before boarding.

Dubai metro is safe ,sure ,on time,clean and excellent. whenever and whereever the people can,t hire a car ,they maybe used it. the signs is OK. the staff of RTA are friendly.

METRO IN DUBAI IS GREAT AND VERY CLEAN. VERY AFFORDABLE AND GREAT COUNTRY TO VISIT. PEOPLE (LOCAL) ARE FRIENDLY. SINCE IM LIVING HERE FOR A YEAR IT REALLY HELPS ME A LOT IN SO MANY WAYS.

Teresa I. Sept.15/09/15 Metro is great value and fast. Timings should be earlier, starting at 5 am in the mornings as many people have to be in places for 6 am. From TECOM to Dubai International Airport takes over an hour. Also Friday people travelling we need train metro All transport , metro in world working ,I don’t understand here to late also Friday start to late ! Please start 5 am including Friday !

Whats all this complaining about the Metro users, I found great majority of users kind and courteous. It is the only form of transport where someone actually offered me their seat.

How long can a driver leave their car at the park and ride parking facilities. I’m going on business trip for 7 days.

24 hours or u can use a parking near

Overnight parking is not allowed at the metro parking lots. Best to just take a taxi or bus to the station closest to you and take the metro the remainder of the way. It is also VERY expensive to park your car at the airport.

I will be travelling with my husband next month (February) arriving at Dubai International Airport and we plan on taking the Metro to our hotel. I noticed that there is a carriage for women and children. Do I have to travel in this carriage or can I travel with my husband in the standard class carriage?

You don’t have to travel in the women’s carriage. It’s optional.

Thank you very much for answering so promptly.

As commented earlier, women are welcome to ride in the Standard Cabins.

Ensure your husband does not stand with you or even cross through the Ladies Cabin. There is a stiff fine for any man doing so. Fines are levied on the spot at the metro station kiosk, and even an ordinary citizen can turn you in.

I need the fare details for blue card for different zones.

The new fares for blue cards (from November 2014) are 7.5 AED for 3 zone trip, 5 AED for 2 zone trip, and 3 AED for a single zone trip. Halve the cost for seniors and students.

Hi, you have to travel with your family in standed carriage and you will find that most of the time you will have to stand, this is what is like on public transport

The Metro system in Dubai is excellent; but I think it is now mature enough to have an earlier start on Fridays. The RTA should consider a 10 am start on Fridays, rather than 1 pm as is the case presently.

Does anyone know any of the companies building the Metro?

I presume you mean companies that built the Dubai Metro?

The Dubai Metro was built by Dubai Rail Link (DURL), a consortium of four Japanese companies (Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Mitsubishi Corporation, Obayashi Corporation, and Kajima Corporation) and one Turkish company (Yapi Merkezi).

Really it is the best way to visit all Dubai. I enjoyed all the day using the Metro. It was my first time using it but it was so easy.

Do you have any information about Dubai Trams? When it will start at Dubai Media City?

We’ve just added a route map for the Dubai Tram system, together with the location of all tram stations. It opens to the general public on November 12 2014. It actually opens on November 11, but that is a VIP-only day.

The Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA is considering adding an additional 25 to 35 trains to the current fleet to cope with increasing numbers of passengers. There are currently 79 trains operating on the Dubai Metro; 61 on the Red Line and 18 on the Green Line.

My number one tip when booking your hotel in Dubai would be to make sure your hotel is near a metro station. It is the best and safest way to travel around the city. You can get to almost all of the tourist attractions and best malls on the Dubai metro.

When I visited Dubai a few years ago the Metro wasn’t very busy. Now it seems to be busier and I frequently had to stand. I guess it is a victim of its own success. Nevertheless is it is still quick, clean, and the best way to get around the city.

Yes its still the best way to go around Dubai but you are most likely to travel whilst standing due to all the seats taken. It is very cheap as compared to taxi fares. As for Dubai taxis, nowadays their interiors seem worn-out and dirty and the taxi drivers are not very customer friendly (except for the women taxis). The other option is the Dubai tram or Dubai bus which are kind of slow.

Yeah your right… it’s quick and easy buy the only problem I feel is that it gets far to over crowded more carriages and seats needed I have stand all the time rarely get a seat it’s hard with a 5 year old travelling with me at having to stand.

The Dubai Metro is very clean and cheap. The passes were excellent value. The stations have beautiful interiors and are very modern. It is very simple to use. It got a little busy at rush hour though you can avoid this with a little planning.

Like others have said, it would be greatly improved if the lines were to start earlier. The Metro itself is good. It is just a shame about the people who use it. They lack common sense and manners. In Dubai all the damn Indian try to pile on to the train before waiting for passengers to get off first. Typical Indians letting the world down.

It’s much worse on the London Underground or the Kiev Metro. People behave far better on the Dubai Metro than on other systems around the world.

In London people know to wait for passengers to get off first before running on. In Dubai they lack this common sense!

That is because the metro just stops for a brief period at every station. There’s hardly enough time for people to alight and board especially during rush hours when the cabins are full. So you can’t blame them.

Lol, that’s not the case…at busy times I have seen ppl being rude and aggressive.

Then, you get the hell out of Dubai and go back to your much-adored London! Has anyone invited you here?

Your own ilk is letting the whole universe down. Much worse than what the ‘Indians’ are doing!

Metro is great value and fast. Timings should be earlier, starting at 5 am in the mornings as many people have to be in places for 6 am. From TECOM to Dubai International Airport takes over an hour.

As a matter of fact, I supported your view for metro to start by 5am. This will go a long way in helping the people to reach their work places on time especially those that need to clock in by 6am. Also, it would be more appreciated if the train could start earlier on Fridays .

Dubai Metro is a great transport system for every one in the city. It would be more helpful if the morning timing would move earlier from 6 am to 5.30 am for employees like me that start at 7 am sharp.

The Metro is a great way to get around the city. It’s clean and all the signs are in English. It’s closed on Friday mornings though so don’t plan on using it then.

The Dubai Metro is efficient, fast, and spotlessly clean. It was very easy to use and took us everywhere we wanted. There really is no need to hire a car in Dubai.

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The best time to go to Dubai

Mar 16, 2021 • 4 min read

Dubai has warm temperatures year round, and the pleasantly warm winter months are perfect for exploring the city © Umar Shariff / Shutterstock

With its location in the Arabian desert, it's no surprise that Dubai has only two settings on its thermostat: warm and hot. In the months when much of the Northern Hemisphere is shivering, Dubai makes a great getaway for winter sun, but in the sweltering summer months, anyone who is brave enough to stay in the city is hustling between air-conditioned patches of cool.

Here's a month-by-month guide for the best time to visit Dubai .

Editor's note: During COVID-19, please check the latest travel restrictions before planning any trip and always follow government health advice. Events may be subject to change.

High season: November to April

Best time for outdoor urban adventures

When much of the Northern Hemisphere is bundled up in hats and winter coats, Dubai is blossoming. Moderate temperatures bring in major festivals and events, and al fresco dining lasts late into the night. Accommodation rates are high. Outdoor activities and excursions into the desert are best done at this time of year.

Shoulder season: May, September and October

Best time for quiet beach holidays

The days are hot, and the nights are balmy. Because the winter crowds have disappeared, these months are good for quiet beach holidays, with sea temperatures averaging 82°F (28°C). Pleasant temperatures also mean it's still possible to camp in the desert.

Low season: June to August

Best time for budget travelers and indoor shopping

During the hot and humid summer months, travelers on a budget can more easily book into Dubai five-star's accommodations thanks to steep discounts. Life moves indoors, and summer sales lure shoppers into the air-conditioned malls.

Month-by-month breakdown

Here's a monthly guide to what you can expect through the year in Dubai. All events are subject to change.

January is a blissful month in Dubai. When much of the rest of the world is suffering post-festive season doldrums and icy conditions, the daytime temperatures in Dubai average a pleasant 77°F (25°C). January is still Dubai's coldest month, so bring a light jacket for evenings out. Key events:  Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai Marathon

February in Dubai is another warm and winning month, with sun-kissed weather and plenty going on, including many outdoor events. Pack a pashmina for al fresco evenings. Key events:  Dubai Jazz Festival, Dubai Duty Free Tennis Championships, Dubai Food Festival

Dubai's weather in March might be heating up a fraction, but it is still near perfect in this action-packed month, with warm seas for swimming and enough of space on the sand. Key events:  Festival of Literature, Art Dubai, Sikka Art Fair, Taste of Dubai, Dubai World Cup, Middle East Film and Comic Con, Burj Al Arab Swim, Dubai International Boat Show

The spring weather in Dubai is still warm rather than blistering, but school breaks mean you’ll see more tourists around the Easter holiday. April is a rollicking good month for beach fans and fashionistas. Key events: Fashion Forward, Al Marmoom Heritage Festival, start of Ramadan in 2021 and 2022

In May, temperatures in Dubai can nudge 95°C (35°C) or more, and most visitors have cleared out in anticipation of the summer heat wave. Beach clubs and indoor shopping centers provide welcome relief during the day.  Key events: Al Gaffal Dhow Race

Summer has arrived, and it's already blisteringly hot outside. Life shifts indoors to air-conditioned malls and museums, and swimming in the sea or a hotel pool feels like sitting in a bathtub. Key events: Dubai Summer Surprises

July is the hottest month of the year in Dubai, and it's a scorcher, with average temperatures of 105°F (40°C). Flight prices and hotel rates drop significantly. You can really cool down at the city's snowy indoor slope, Ski Dubai . Key events:  Eid Al Adha in 2021 and 2022

Dubai is still roasting hot in August. Tourist attractions are generally empty, especially toward the end of the month when schools start up again.

Dubai's searing summer temperatures are slowly starting to drop, and it's a good time to be by the sea. Excursions into the desert are possible again, and the balmy evenings lend themselves to stargazing among the sands.

Temperatures in Dubai have started to cool nicely, although you can still expect humidity and toasty warm days in early October. The cooler nights are lovely for a stroll along the Dubai Canal and for dining outdoors. Key events:  Diwali in 2022

By November, the summer heat has subsided, and visitors from colder climes are returning to enjoy the balmy temperatures. Much of life moves outdoors. Key events: Diwali in 2021, Dubai Rugby Sevens, DP World Tour Championship, Global Village

The end of the year marks the beginning of the peak tourist season for a reason: the sea is still warm, the air is crisp and clear, and evenings are warm enough for outdoor dining. Key events:  UAE National Day, Dubai International Film Festival

You might also like: Dubai is the latest spot to announce a new visa for remote workers First time Dubai: top tips for your first visit to the city of gold Top 10 things to know before visiting Dubai

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48-Hour Itinerary

48 Hours in Dubai: The Ultimate Itinerary

Alari Kivisaar

Upon first landing in Dubai, it's easy to see why it's been self-appointed as "the city of the future." The city's architecture—particularly the Burj Khalifa, the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab, and the gravity-defying Museum of the Future—is magical and otherworldly, and its attractions (which include the longest urban zip line in the world) promise experiences unlike any other. But there's more to the city than meets the eye; explore a little bit deeper, and you'll discover its quainter side, one rich with history, traditions, and culture.

To highlight the old and the new, the charming, and the flashy, we've come up with an itinerary to see the best Dubai has to offer in two days. So get ready to shop and eat and revel in luxury, all while diving into the city's fascinating history.

Day 1: Morning

10 a.m.: After landing and collecting your bags at Dubai International Airport, hail a cab or rideshare and make your way to Paramount Dubai Hotel in the city's Business Bay district. The hotel, which opened in January 2020, is reminiscent of old Hollywood, with "Godfather"- and "Great Gatsby"-themed suites, a 20s-style speakeasy serving up gin-based cocktails and jazz, and cuisine with a California twist (Though inspired by Hollywood, the hotel's glitz and five-star service reeks of Dubai glam.) Drop off your luggage, and, if the jet lag is getting to you, grab a cup of coffee from Craft Table, the hotel's artisan café, bakery, and coffee roastery.

11 a.m.: Prior to 1966, before the city became the behemoth that it is today, Dubai was just a small village of merchants, fishermen, and pearl divers settled in barastis along the creek. You can get a taste of what the city used to be like in Old Dubai, where vendors in the souks (open-air markets) vie for your attention and abras (traditional wooden boats) take tourists and locals alike between the two sections of Old Dubai: Deira and Bur Dubai. Your first stop is at the Old Souk (in the Deira section of Old Dubai), home to the world's heaviest gold ring as well as more moderately priced—and just as importantly, wearable—necklaces, bracelets, and rings. Browse the Perfume Souk for oud and essential oils before making your way to the Spice Souk and picking up saffron, zaatar, and fresh dates to take home.

Hop on an abra for one dirham, and it'll take you across the creek to Bur Dubai, where the Textile Souk offers up a selection of fabrics and clothing.

Day 1: Afternoon

1 p.m.: After working up an appetite, it's a short, 10-minute walk to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) for one of the institution's esteemed cultural lunches. An Emirati guide will walk you through several of the UAE's traditional dishes—including lamb machboos, veal harees, vegetable saloona, and lugaimat—and share the history and traditions associated with each. As you sip on Arabic coffee, you will be introduced to a general overview of—and given the opportunity to ask anything you want about—Muslim, Arabic, and Bedouin cultures. The SMCCU is closed on Fridays and Saturdays; if you're in the area on either of those two days, you can enjoy an authentic meal at nearby Arabian Tea House instead.

2:30 p.m.: Walk off your lunch by exploring the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Al Fahdidi Fort, the city's oldest building, was originally built in 1787 and currently houses the Dubai Museum . Learn about the city's history by paying a visit to their collection and perusing artifacts like weapons and pottery and models of local boats and bamboo houses. For a pop of color, check out one of the district's art galleries, including the one at XVA Art Hotel , highlighting both emerging and established contemporary artists from the Middle East.

5 p.m.: Take a taxi or rideshare to Zabeel Park to gaze upon one of the city's more recent architectural marvels: a 492-foot-tall, 305-foot-wide picture frame made out of concrete, steel, and glass. When you enter the Dubai Frame , an elevator will whisk you up 48 floors in 75 seconds, allowing you to see stunning views of Old Dubai to the north and New Dubai to the south.

Day 1: Evening

Courtesy of BOCA

7:30 p.m.: If you're not too full from lunch, head over to Mediterranean-inspired eatery BOCA for a round of tapas to share. Featuring a seasonal menu of eco-friendly fish and ethical produce, chef Mattheus Stinnissen serves up an array of small plates like grilled tiger prawns and sweet potato hummus and larger portions of paellas and classics such as gnocchi with braised beef short rib. Do yourself a favor and order the porcini risotto if it's on offer, consisting of salted ricotta, wild mushrooms, and black truffle. Every bite is full of delectable flavor. BOCA also has a wine selection of more than 200 labels, so be sure to order a bottle to finish out your meal.

9:30 p.m.: With a storyline inspired by the city's pearl diving history—and one that pays tribute to its diversity of cultures— "La Perle" by art director Franco Dragon is a grandiose show rife with fantastic acrobatics and stunts. You'll be mesmerized as 713,265 gallons of water flood the stage of the aqua theatre, and performers dive 82 feet down into its depths—but perhaps not as on the edge of your seat as you will be when five motorists whip circles around each other inside a globe suspended above the stage.

11 p.m.: Before calling it a night, cap off the day's activities with a cocktail or two in Flashback Speakeasy Bar & Lounge , located within Paramount Hotel. If you need help finding it, ask the staff, and they might tell you where it is. (Hint: It's behind a hidden door on the ground floor).

Day 2: Morning

10 a.m.: There are a couple of ways you could spend the morning, depending on where your interests lay. Your first option is to hit up the lesser-known Alserkal Avenue, Dubai's hip industrial quarter. Pop into Nightjar for a stack of ricotta-and-buttermilk pancakes and nitro cold brew or kombucha on tap to get you going for the day. As you hop between the district's 13 art galleries, you can shop contemporary clothing designs and antique furniture, get a custom-made pair of Italian shoes, or even design your fragrance.

Alternatively, you could snooze in a little and grab breakfast at the hotel before making your way to one of Dubai's top beaches . Sunset Beach comes with a picture-perfect view of Burj Al Arab, whereas water sports enthusiasts will want to check out Kite Beach for kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding. For a more low-key start to your day, journey over to Black Palace Beach to revel in pristine white sands and no crowds.

Day 2: Afternoon

12 p.m.: Make your next stop Palm Jumeirah, a human-made, palm-shaped island so large it can be seen from space. Start with lunch at The Pointe , a popular waterfront destination whose 70-plus eateries represent flavors worldwide. You most certainly won't be starved for choice; options range from manakish and shawarma at Lebanese restaurant Al Safadi to sushi rolls and sashimi at KYO.

1 p.m.: Considering how the trunk itself is 3 miles long, it should be no surprise that there are plenty of things to do in Palm Jumeirah —many of which are ideal for adrenaline junkies. You can swim with sharks and dolphins at Atlantis, take a 25-minute helicopter tour over Dubai's most iconic sights, or jump on a speedboat and cruise around the archipelago. (For even more thrills, head to the Dubai Marina just off the Palm, where you can skydive over the Arabian Gulf or ride the world's longest urban zip line .) Of course, if you want to sit back and unwind, you can do that, too; sign up for a full-body coffee peel or an ancient hot stone massage at Talise Ottoman Spa for the ultimate relaxation.

4 p.m.: Even if shopping isn't your thing, no trip to Dubai is complete without visiting one of the world's largest malls. Taking up more than 12 million square feet, Dubai Mall houses over 1,300 retail outlets and 200 food and beverage vendors, a 2.6-million gallon aquarium with glass-bottom boat tours, and snorkeling cages for shark diving; and an Olympic-sized ice skating rink. It's worth going for the theatrics alone.

Day 2: Evening

6 p.m.: After admiring the Burj Khalifa from every which way for the past couple of days, now's your chance to go up inside the world's tallest building. For 459 dirhams (or 359 if you can wait 'til 7 p.m.), you'll soar 33 feet per second in an elevator to the highest observation deck in the world on the 148th floor, which rises to 1,821 feet. Let the unsurpassable views of the surrounding area sink in as you sip on a drink from the SKY lounge; then, head down to the 125th and 124th floors to get a look at the city from a different angle. Travel tip: If you want to save money, skip the SKY deck and go straight to the 125th floor for 179 dirhams (or 109 during off-peak hours).

7 p.m.: The Dubai Fountain was dreamed up by the same design team behind the Fountains of Bellagio, so you can expect a no less impressive show. It is said to be the world's largest choreographed fountain, a 30-acre lake with nozzles jetting streams of water 50 stories into the air, and more than 6,000 lights and 50 colored projectors working in tandem to create a dazzling spectacle. Shows start at 6 p.m. and run every half hour until 11 p.m.

8 p.m.: It's your last night in Dubai, so make it count. Masti , an award-winning Indian restaurant in LA Mer, touts an incredible menu that'll make your mouth water. The heavenly eggplant bharta is a crowd-pleaser, as are the stracciatella and dill butter chicken and tamarind BBQ Angus beef ribs. Pair it with one of their signature cocktails, whose names hint at their unique and bold flavors (The Golden City, for instance, is made with gin, truffle, green apple, cardamom, and edible gold).

The 10 Best Day Trips From Dubai

The Best Time to Visit Dubai

A Complete Guide to the Dubai Mall

Dubai's Wild Wadi Waterpark: The Complete Guide

10 Cool Things to Do at the Palm Jumeirah in Dubai

Nightlife in Dubai: Best Bars, Clubs, & More

How to Use the Metro on Your Trip to Dubai

Dubai Museum: The Complete Guide

Dubai Marina: The Complete Guide

Is It Safe in Dubai?

Your Guide to Currency in Dubai

Weather in Dubai: Climate, Seasons, and Average Monthly Temperature

The 10 Best Museums in Dubai

The Top 12 Restaurants in Dubai

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: The Complete Guide

Road is Calling

Visiting Dubai For the First Time: 21 Incredible Must-Do Things + My Top Travel Tips

When visiting Dubai for the first time, it is really easy to get lost. This large city has so much, starting from futuristic landscapes of the future and finishing with unique details of the past, that you may be confused about where to start planning your trip. 

I remember it took me a while to understand what to do in Dubai on vacation on the first visit. But then I went for a long stay that lasted almost 4 months and learned that on my first trip I missed a lot of cool tourist spots.

So today I would love to share my Dubai travel guide for first time visitors that will give a good idea of where to go and things to do in Dubai in order to see the city in its best light and cover top sights. I also include off the beaten path cool places in Dubai and a few travel tips that answer the most important questions. 

The list is long and consists of many activities. But don’t look only at captions because each activity I mention has a full description with details on what sights to see nearby.

If you are coming for a short visit, you won’t be able to visit all these Dubai entertainment places but make sure to save them for later as they are all worth a trip! 

8 Things to Know Before Visiting Dubai For the First Time

The best time to visit dubai.

I’ve seen many guides saying that the best time to visit Dubai is from mid-fall to mid-spring, from around October to April. But I don’t agree with that. The best time depends on what your goal of the trip is and what weather you prefer.

Winter can be quite a tricky time to visit if you are looking to come mainly for sea vacation and waterparks. October and April can be already too hot for guided excursions and city exploration on foot. 

So, what is the purpose of your trip?

Are you coming for the beach and sun alone? Well, then late December, January, and the first part of February are not the best months for that.

There will definitely be enough of the sun to sunbathe but swimming in the sea will be cold. The gulf water usually cools down by the end of the first winter month and stays cold throughout the winter. Additionally to that, frequent strong cold winds start to blow more and more often which also spoils the experience near the sea. 

Another thing to consider is that it can be pretty cold in the hotel room (depending on its location of course) because there are no heating systems in this country. So instead of walking in a new swimsuit on the beach, you can be walking in a tiring winter sweater.

However, that all depend of course. Some people can’t stand heat, so winter in Dubai will be an ideal season even for swimming.

If a goal of your trip is to explore the city, drive around Dubai , see the desert, all the parks, and gardens, and join walkable tours, then winter is the best time to travel! 

In my experience, I can say that March, April, October, November, and December are the best months to visit Dubai . At this time of the year, it is not very hot, the water temperature is comfortable, and the sky remains clear. During these months, the air temperature ranges from 23 to 30°C and water from 23 to 27°C.

It’s the best time to go for most people because you can combine beach vacation with tours and day trips.

How Many Days to Spend in Dubai?

For an eventful vacation and to be able to see as many Dubai entertainment places as possible, you want to book 7 days in Dubai. 5 days would be very minimum but it is enough only for some touristy sights and never enough for off the beaten track places (which Dubai has a lot of) or for travel around the country .

Spending one or two days in Dubai gives a good presentation of the city but doesn’t give an opportunity to combine beach time with must-do activities. 

Can You See Dubai in a Day?

No, you can’t. You’ll be possibly able to see one district and even hit the beach, but there is no way to see all of Dubai in one day. 

This city is huge and has many interesting, action-packed neighborhoods scattered out from each other at a great distance. Traveling between them takes time.

Dubai is not about the economy and rush. It requires you to spend money and have time.

There are just so many incredible restaurants and lounges here, hotels with stunning pools, museums, beaches clubs, shows and events. My head is spinning when I think about all that Dubai has on offer! I’ve spent 4 long months here from November to March, sightseeing every second day and I haven’t even seen half of the attractions.  

So to answer your question – no, you cannot see Dubai in a day.

Simply because this is not old Europe where an architectural monument or a museum is at every step. It takes time to travel between places and you’ll surely want to pause in each of them. One day in Dubai is just enough for breathing in the desert air and getting the first impression of the city.

Is Dubai Expensive?

It depends on who you ask, which city you compare it to, and what your budget is.

Is Dubai expensive compared to Los Angeles ? No, not really. I’ve lived in LA for 3.5 years and paid much more there than on a few months’ stay in Dubai. Is Dubai expensive compared to Istanbul ? Now that’s a totally different story.

Among the most expensive cities in the Middle East, Dubai ranks only sixth, while Tel Aviv still holds the lead.

The most expensive are accommodation, coffee, and alcohol. Everything else costs either the same or cheaper than in many countries around Europe and many states in the US. 

Getting a quick meal in a cafe costs between $8-$10 per person, dinner for two at a restaurant $28-$30, bottle of water 0.33l – $0.3, cappuccino or latte – $5-$7. Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, Afgan restaurants are the cheapest and you can easily eat for $12-$15 for two.

Metro ride costs between $1.2-$1.7 depending on the distance, taxi ride (no more than 5 km) $3.5. Prices for attractions range between $15 and $250 per person. But there are also tons of free things to do in Dubai.

Gas prices are the cheapest we have ever paid – $0.7 per liter and prices for car rentals are the same as in many European destinations. 

Best Area to Stay in Dubai First Time

If you come to Dubai on a first visit only for a couple of days, choose Downtown. Some of the important Dubai top ten sights are located here. A more cheaper area of downtown is where Revier Hotel and Canal Central are located.

If the goal of a trip is a beach holiday, then it is best to book accommodation in the Dubai Marina area. It is expensive but you’ll be close to the beach and fashionable neighborhoods.

If you are coming for a longer period of time and want to save on housing, choose Deira or Bur Dubai. Deira has fewer nice hotels, but there is a good beach in close proximity.

XVA Art Hotel in the Old part of Dubai is a good combination of price and quality. Apart from being a peaceful retreat, it is also one of the most Instagram-worthy properties built with a traditional Arabian touch. 

What to Pack For Dubai 

Let me say at first this – in Dubai shopping centers and malls you can find absolutely anything and many hotels have shops on their territories that sell some essentials. So if you forget to pack something, there is always a chance to buy it in Dubai. It can be more expensive compared to your home country, but finding what you need is not a problem. 

What I’ll advise taking in the first place is a first aid kit , particularly if you have any chronic diseases. Also, if you prefer to use natural medicine, pack it as well.

There are none in Dubai (and UAE). Local pharmacies offer only heavy artillery in the form of antibiotics, steroids, and various drugs that require prescriptions. Over the counter medicine is very limited and basic. When we had a cold and wanted to buy something as simple as cold and flue mix, there was no chance of finding anything besides just one type of powder with paracetamol.

In Europe, there is a big choice of drugs, including those homeopathic and herbal ones. In Dubai, you won’t find any of that (there is only one pharmacy on the territory of a nontraditional medical center but prices are incredibly high there).

Among other things are the adapter (Emirates uses a G type of plug, which is the plug with three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern), sandals or flip flops for the beach, light sweater or hoodie for evenings if traveling from December to March, scarf for women to cover the head when visiting mosques, beach towel , modest clothes that will cover shoulders and knees. 

And of course don’t forget headwear, sunscreen, and glasses. The sun is always strong in Dubai. 

Best Way to Get Around Dubai 

The transport system in the Emirates is somewhat different from the system that operates in European cities and it’s not well developed. Residents and citizens of the UAE mainly use automobiles to get around Dubai since the city was built for cars alone.

There are two main ways how tourists can travel around Dubai and they are taxis and metro . Bus service only continues to develop and takes up very little space in local transportation system.

Mark and I tried to use buses in the beginning but then gave up since they were stealing too much time. The main drawback is the long wait at stops as they travel at fairly large intervals. The route of the trip is also inconvenient because it goes into all the nooks and crannies of the city and drives along very narrow streets, so it takes forever to reach your destination soon enough.

Taxis are the most popular means of transportation but they are also the most expensive ones. 

If you are traveling to Dubai on a low or mid budget, I recommend you look into car rentals and hire a car instead. First of all, you’ll save money and time, second – you’ll travel in comfort and third – there are a lot of things not to miss in Dubai accessible only by car. Roads are excellent and free parking is available anywhere in the city.

The best companies to hire a car in Dubai are DiscoverCars and LocalRent . The first one is great for Dubai airport car hire and a second one for any other district or when you need a car to be delivered to your hotel. 

For more details and tips on driving in Dubai, see my guide to Dubai car hire . 

20 Must-Do Things in Dubai For First Timers

In this section of my post for first time visitors to Dubai, I’d love to tell you about the must-do things on the first visit. Actually, they are really amazing for any visit as not everyone will be able to see them all on one trip. So take a look at my list of Dubai must see attractions and add them to your Dubai itinerary !

These places are not only skyscrapers made of glass and concrete, competing in luxury and height. They are cozy stops that show a different world of Dubai Old City with its small cute buildings, abra boats, narrow streets with shade, modern Arabic art, flower rows, and a lot of entertainment.

All these unique sights are worth seeing at least once in a lifetime! So make sure not to miss them!

Admire the Tallest Building in the World Burj Khalifa

This is the number one attraction that everyone must see in Dubai on the first time visit. It is the tallest building in the world which is located in the largest mall and has a lot of other sights around. And it will surely impress even an inveterate skeptic!

When we saw this building with 163 floors, we couldn’t take our eyes off it for a very long time. It seemed that its spire was rising away into the stratosphere! 

To go up to the 124th floor to see the views of Dubai, you need to pay around $40/€35 – this is the cheapest ticket . But, if you visit on a clear day, it is worth going up to the observation deck.

To save money and cover more, you can buy a combo ticket with a visit to the tower and the aquarium . If visiting in spring or fall, go early, maybe for 9 am, until the haze appears and while there are not too many people. When visiting in winter, it is better to go in the afternoon after the fog clears up the sky.

Get a Unique View of the City From Sky Views Dubai

Sky Views is a new thing not to miss in Dubai that offers sensational views of the city. Being very near Burj Khalifa, it is a cheaper alternative with no less spectacular panorama.

By checking out this new to be tourist spot in Dubai you get to ride in a glass elevator to the 52nd floor, walk the 46m walkway with a glass floor and then take a transparent slide-ride over the city! And then if you feel it’s not enough, Sky Walk has an Edge Walk experience for a hand-free walk outside the Address Sky View Hotel .

Although not as high as the Burj Khalifa observation deck, Sky Views shows a city from a different angle. Plus being able to ride in a complete glass elevator is an attraction on its own.

It is undeniably one of the top Dubai must do attractions! 

Watch Dancing Fountains Show in Dubai Mall

This is another must-do thing in Dubai for first timers (well, I personally loved to return to take a look at them on the second, third, and another visit) and here is why: 

First, it’s completely free. Although, even if the UAE government wanted to charge a fee for this show, it would be technically impossible. The fountains jet up so high that they can be seen from all around.

Second, to watch the show, you do not need to go far. Dancing fountains are located next to the Burj Khalifa building in the center of Dubai Mall. And they are the main local tourist attractions.

There is no need to come to see the fountain dance by a certain time. You can walk around the Dubai Mall and at some point go outside and watch a show which takes place every day 11 or 13 times. There are day and evening shows and you may want to watch both. 

These fountains are a symbol of the prosperity of the United Arab Emirates. To understand the idea of ​​the creators, you need to remember the history of the UAE – this Arab nation was born in the desert, and water occupies a very important place in their culture.

Water is the same symbol of wealth as gold or silver. And water shows are always beautiful.

To watch this show with all possible comfort, I recommend booking a table in one of the restaurants in Dubai Mall . My favorite are GIA and L’ETO . They are located on different floors, but the views of the fountains are mesmerizing from any angle.

Visit Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Have you heard about the aquarium with the largest viewing panel in the world?

Yes and yes, it is also located in Dubai, in the same Dubai Mall. And you must see this spectacle with your own eyes.

Dubai Aquarium holds 10 million liters of water, is equipped with 75 cm thick glass, and occupies 3 floors at once. Here you can see rays, sharks, giant groupers, corals, and hundreds of species of fish that many have not even heard of.

Dubai aquarium is not only a place where to admire the marine life and take pictures against their background. The most daring ones can swim among the sharks – certified divers can dive on their own and beginners after a short training course.

Those who wish can take a trip on a boat with a transparent glass bottom or visit a zoo with penguins, snakes, reptiles, and the Marine Research Center. 

If you are visiting Dubai on a tight budget, there is a chance to see a bit of the aquarium for free. Part of it is facing the Cheesecake Factory with a designated area for visitors.

Tickets for sale are available at the counter at the aquarium or online on their website. But you may want to purchase a combo ticket with a visit to Burj Khalifa (mentioned above) as it turns out to be much cheaper.

Ride on the Tallest Ferris Wheel in the World Ain Dubai

Another (new) Dubai attraction will surely bring lots of emotions and provide the opportunity to see Dubai from a height of 250 meters. It is located on Bluewaters Island with a unique collection of elegant apartments and luxury townhouses.

Record-breaking Ain Dubai outshines the 165m Singapore Flyer and is nearly double the size of the London Eye Ferris wheel. It has 48 enclosed cabins with some of them being able to accommodate up to 40 passengers. Each cabin is larger than two double-decker buses connected side by side.

Visitors can choose one of three types of cabins: a “viewing” cabin for general travel, cabin with sofas and a minibar with drinks, and the so-called “VIP cabin” that can be used for dinner parties, business meetings, and other events.

Each trip lasts 38 minutes and offers a bird’s eye view of Dubai’s coastline and city skyline. There is a possibility to go on two consecutive trips that will take approximately 76 minutes.

Ticket prices start at AED 130 and are available for sale online .

Explore Al Fahidi Historical District

If you are travelling to Dubai for the first time, you should definitely not miss the oldest historic district with a large number of narrow streets and several dozen old houses built at the beginning of the 20th century by Iranian merchants. It will give you the best presentation of what Dubai looked like in the past .

Al Fahidi or as it’s also called Bastakiya is the place recognized as the ancient cultural and historical center of Dubai. The exact location is between the Dubai Creek waterfront, Musalla Street, and the Al Fahidi Fort Museum. Here is the route with a few suggested stops.

In the houses of Bastakia, you can find a huge number of different shops, art galleries, museums and restaurants. Visitors appreciate the traditional Arabic style of ancient architecture decorated with wood and gypsum and a walk through noisy courtyards and labyrinths of winding alleys.

The highlight of the old quarter is the bright contrast between the spirit of the past and present. Right behind the ancient houses and narrow streets you can see the ultra-modern skyscrapers rising in the background.

Among the muse-see places in this part of Dubai are Al Fahidi Fort , Dubai Museum , Grand Bur mosque , Coffee Museum , Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum Cultural   Center , and Coins Museum . There is also a big souk (market) and lots of waterfront cafes (including this Starbucks with incredible views).

For cultural experience and food, I recommend you check the Arabian Tea House (an iconic cafe in Dubai that serves authentic Emirati and Dubai food), Mazmi Coffee and More , and Sul Fiume Al Seef .

And Check the Best Tours of Old Dubai

Walk Through Deira

Deira is another historic district to visit in Dubai, especially for people on a first visit who want to see a different side of the city. Deira is so unique! It is a chaotic mixture of Egypt, Morocco, and modern Dubai at the same time .

There are oriental markets, narrow nooks between traditional houses, and skyscrapers. The aromas at the spice market are overwhelming. It smells of cumin, vanilla, saffron, and thousands of other colorful spices. I think this area in Dubai is a must-see for everyone, although for many travelers it will be enough to spend only a couple of hours there to get an idea. 

When I visited Deira, I had really conflicting feelings.

On the one hand, there were nagging sellers, a somewhat unpleasant smell, numerous showcases with gold, diamonds, and silk, and too many people everywhere. On the other hand, where else in Dubai will you see such a strange mixture of old and new? Only here, in the area of Dubai Gold Souk. And by the way, this market has an incredible amount of gold in one place like nowhere else!

To get to Deira, it is better to combine it with a visit to Al Fahidi and take a traditional abra boat from there and back for 1 dirham one way. Another option is to join this tour which allows you to see a lot of sights in a couple of hours.

Go on a Tour to Jumeirah Mosque 

The Jumeirah Mosque is one of the few mosques in the country open to all visitors, regardless of their religion. It is open not only for independent trips but for group tours and is one of the best places to visit in Dubai for tourists who are eager to learn about the culture and religion of the UAE . The mosque became so special that it even got its image on the 500 dirham banknote.

Thanks to the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Cooperation (SMCCU), which operates at the mosque, non-Muslims can come here in the mornings or early afternoons six days a week, from Saturday to Thursday. 

Public tours start at 10:00 am and 2 pm. Reservations are not required. But it is advisable to arrive at the main entrance 30 minutes before the tour since it takes some time to register.

During religious holidays, as well as the month of Ramadan, excursions are limited.

Tours of the mosque are provided by staff from the SMCCU center. Each tour is in English and lasts about 75 minutes. The ticket price is 35 dirhams and it includes a tour, water , Arabic coffee, tea , and traditional sweets . Children under 12 years old are admitted free of charge. You can find more details as well as see some photos on the mosque’s website .

I visited this tour once and was really impressed by how well it was delivered to the public. Even my husband who doesn’t like anything on a religious thematic was captivated and enjoyed the excursion with Emirati snacks.

In addition to tours, there are also classrooms on the territory of the mosque where visitors can take Arabic lessons, listen to a lecture on the history and religion of the UAE, or visit various cultural events. Here you can also order an individual tour of the mosque and its surroundings.

Learn About Arabic Culture Through Food

Another wonderful and must do thing in Dubai for all visitors is acquaintance with traditional cuisine. Discovering a new culture through food is always a fascinating experience and that is not an exception in this country.

The best way to learn about Arabic food and try the most popular dishes would be also through a tour. Although there are a few nice Emirati restaurants that you may be interested in for the independent visit. 

If you are short on time and visiting Dubai for the first time, it will be more efficient to go to cultural lunch at the Sheikh Mohammed Center or taste street food with a local .

The second most popular cuisine in Dubai after Emirati is Indian since there are a lot of expats and workers from India. You can explore India’s food culture in the Middle East through this 3-hour walking tour . 

Those who prefer to taste foods without a tour should look into traditional Emirati restaurants such as Al Fanar , Aseelah , Zaroob , and of course Arabian Tea House . Some of them have a few restaurants under the same name, so check the map for a better location.

More Food Tours in Dubai With Locals

See What Dubai Manhatten is Like

Manhatten of Dubai (with its real name Dubai Marina) is a beautiful, sophisticated area near The Palm Jumeirah. It is famous for the luxurious marina, tall glass buildings, modern hotels, snow-white beautiful yachts, stunning views, and relaxed but businesslike rhythm of life.

You’ll want to come here to enjoy the cityscape, ultra-modern infrastructure, impressive sea views, and a beautiful 7-kilometer manmade waterway where luxurious exclusive boat and yacht tours take place.

In addition to all of this, Dubai Marina also has fine restaurants and casual bars. It is a great destination for the breakfast in Dubai with views or late night dinner and drinks.

Among the most popular places to visit are Dubai Marina Mall , AquaFun waterpark (the world’s largest inflatable water park), Splash Park (for families with kids), XLine (zip line over the marina), and Pier 7 a place with fancy restaurants overlooking the waterway.

But to be honest, it is also a wonderful place where to walk and take photos on each corner.

On one side of Dubai Marina is no less popular JLT area (similar in some ways) and JBR area that offers many more activities and access to JBR beach. 

Best Boat & Yacht Cruises in Dubai Marina

Ride on Sheikh Zayed Road

Among all the tourist attractions in Dubai, this one is the best for both budget and luxury travelers. Because you can either spend a few Durhams and see the skyscrapers of Dubai from the panoramic window of the first or last subway coach. Or you can rent a luxury car in Dubai and drive through it on your own.

Sheikh Zayed Road is the main road in Dubai and one of the main highways connecting all 7 emirates of UAE . It runs along residential communities, hotels, and tall glass buildings that form business hubs. 

The drive on its own is really fascinating since it opens up a skyscraper panorama . But besides that, it offers easy detours to many activities that are located nearby.

Many hotels by this road have rooftop pools with fantastic views that are available to outside guests on a day pass, or high floor restaurants and lounges open to the public too. There are also various malls, adjacent avenues with modern art galleries (like Alserkal Avenue and nearby Cassette food courtyard), parks and gardens.

The metro lane goes by the highway, so it makes it easy to hop on and off at any stop.

Another way to see Sheikh Zayed Road is to ride around Dubai in a luxury convertible with a driver . All tourists are always delighted with such an experience! Plus, you get a good guide in the person of the driver who will be happy to talk about the iconic sights, tell about the experience of living in Dubai and where to shop, have fun and eat.

See Iconic Burj Al Arab Hotel

You’ve probably seen many photos of Dubai which captured a sail-shaped structure against the backdrop of the waves. That’s a famous iconic Burj Al Arab hotel that attracts many people on their first visit to Dubai. 

There are a few ways how to see it. 

First one – on your own when walking in the area (keep in mind no one is allowed to go inside besides the guests), when reserving a table in one of their restaurants, or joining a tour that Burj Al Arab started to offer just recently.

For the tour, you can check all details here , for the walk, come to Open Beach or Jumeirah Public Beach to get the best photo with the hotel in the background. Another photogenic place where to contemplate Burj Al Arab is Souk Madinat .

Enjoy the Walk and Scenic Views at Dubai Frame

The strange giant structure in the form of frame, which we regularly see from the window of a car, is another Dubai famous place worth seeing. But it’s not just an object for photos or admiration.

Dubai Frame is simultaneously an observation deck and museum . At the top, there is a deck with a glass floor from where you can look at downtown Dubai. This place is not for fainthearted! 

Entrance costs 55 dirhams. You can buy tickets and see their schedule on the official website .

If you don’t have a car, the best way to get to the Dubai Frame is to take the metro to Al Jafiliya Station and then go to Gate 4. Another option is to visit the observation deck during this sightseeing tour . The guide has a lot of excellent reviews.

See the Magic in Dubai Garden Glow

Next to the Dubai Frame, there is a park. During the day it is quiet and almost empty. But in the evening it turns into a riot of colors!

This park, called Dubai Garden Glow, is among the most unique places to visit in Dubai at night. It strikes the imagination with the scale of the exposition and the extravaganza of multi-colored lights .

There you’ll find more than 30 luminous installations which amazingly were made from recycled materials such as old medical bottles and LED lighting. All of them consume very little electricity.

Pleasant music creates a festive atmosphere while fantastic landscapes get reflected in the mirror surface of artificial reservoirs. There are fountains with illumination, benches to sit down and relax, dinosaurs that move and make sounds, and a children’s electric train for little travelers to enjoy the ride.

Everything glows and sparkles and the most fabulous atmosphere reigns in the park in the evening when all the installations are lit up with colorful lights.

To save on a ticket, buy it online , it’s cheaper.

When you’ll be on your way to Dubai Garden Glow from the Al Jafiliya metro station, come to entrance number 6.

See the World’s Largest Flower Garden 

Flower Garden (officially Miracle Garden) in Dubai is really one of the largest flower parks in the world . In just a few years of its work it has managed to earn the attention of the world community and has become one of the key objects of attracting tourists to Dubai.

It is the best place for families with children visiting Dubai and for everyone else who loves flowers and wants to see a garden like nowhere else.

Not to mention the fact that the scale of Miracle Garden is amazing, it is also striking that it is located away from the coastal part of the emirate almost in the middle of the desert.

The main highlight of the garden is not the uniqueness of the flowers, most likely you’ve seen many of them many times in your life. In fact, there are only about 70 species of flowers in the park. Most of them are petunias, calendula, tulips, and roses.

The uniqueness of the garden is in the fact that all this flower riot grows in a desert. In order to maintain such conditions, the park needs 757,000 liters of water daily! High technologies make it possible to use purified water from urban wastewater for this purpose. 

In addition to floral compositions and bright flower fields , the park has a Garden of Aromas and an aviary with peacocks .

An important feature of this park is the presence of seasonality. It is open only half a year (usually from December 1 to May 31) and closes for all calendar summer.

Nest to Miracle Garden is another unique place Dubai Butterfly Garden.

Get a Drink in a Rooftop Lounge 

One of the best things to do in Dubai on any visit is to see Dubai from above. And for that, you need to go either to one of the numerous observation platforms (some of them I mentioned above) or to a lounge on the top floor of a hotel or business center.  

Dubai is full of sky lounges and rooftop restaurants. Among my favorite that you’ll love too are Observatory Bar & Grill , Pure Sky Lounge & Dining (they are in JBR/Dubai Marina area), and Sky Bar CE LA VI Dubai  in Address Sky View where Sky Walk is located too. 

Splash in One of World Famous Aquaparks

Almost every tourist has heard about Dubai’s unique water parks but where to go with the whole family and get maximum fun? Which waterpark is better, particularly for the first time in Dubai?

 Two biggest and most famous waterparks are Aquaventure in Atlantis and Wild Wadi near Burj Al Arab.

Aquaventure is the largest water park in the UAE and one of the largest in the world. Its attractions and beaches cover an area of 170,000 sq. m. It is the number one aquapark for extreme and adventure lovers. The park has its own access to the sea and children’s splash-play complex. Additionally to all the slides and pools, you can also feed the stingrays or take part in the Shark Safari underwater show.

Wild Wadi is one of the favorite waterparks for Dubai residents. Located next to Burj Al Arab hotel, it offers water attractions for those who like to tickle their nerves and for those who prefer to relax and take it easy. And of course, there you can find the whole range of entertainment for your children and their friends. 

Go Sand Bashing in Rub Al Khali Desert

The largest desert in the Arabian Peninsula is Rub Al Khali. It takes a bigger part of Dubai and spreads outside the United Arab Emirates, over the territory of Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Yemen. Being the hottest and impassable in the world, Rub al-Khali, however, does not cease to attract many tourists.

If you are coming to Dubai, be sure to set aside time to visit this desert. There are tours where you can leave early in the morning and spend the whole day crossing the sand dunes on a quad bike or camel. Or take part in a safari which local travel agencies arrange for tourists.

Be sure to visit the impromptu Bedouin village where in the flame of a night fire you can admire the traditional belly dance and share an evening meal with after dinner local treats and hookah.

It will surely be one of the most unforgettable excursions of your life! Watching the sunset in the desert cannot be compared with anything in its beauty. And the night under the open sky will certainly be something to remember.

See the best desert safaris from Dubai:

Spend a Day in a Theme Park ‘Dubai Parks and Resorts’

‘Dubai Parks and Resorts’ is not necessarily a must see attraction for first time Dubai visit. But if you have more days in the city, cover everything you wanted and still feel like getting an adrenaline rush, then head here and spend a day in one of its three theme parks – Motiongate, colorful Legoland or Indian Bollywood. There is also a Riverland and restaurant boulevard for a relaxing time.

Dubai Parks and Resorts has over 100 different rides and shows to offer entertainment for visitors of all ages. Every theme park is unique and is a great place for a family holiday, lots of emotions and a great mood! 

My favorite park is Bollywood which is the world’s first and only theme park dedicated to Indian cinema. It recreates the atmosphere of an Indian dream factory – with rides, live performances, restaurants, and cinematic attractions with 3D and 4D effects.

Legoland Dubai is very similar to Legoland in Los Angeles and consists of an amusement park and water park. 

And the last park Motiongate is dedicated to Hollywood. It combines three legendary film studios (Sony Pictures Studios, Dreamworks Animation, Lionsgate) and is divided into five thematic zones. Favorite movies and cartoons come to life here and guests can visit their favorite characters.

For more information about parks and ticket prices, visit Parks and Resorts site . Looks like if you purchase online, there is a 10% discount.

Go For a Stroll in the World’s First Shopping Resort Mall of the Emirates

Dubai malls are not only great places where to go shopping. They are also wonderful entertainment destinations for the whole family. They provide many opportunities to taste dishes from different cuisines, participate in adventurous activities, and just have a good time.

One of such malls is the Mall of the Emirates. It is one of the first shopping centers in the world of such size and number of attractions. 

It owes much of its high popularity to the ski attraction ‘ Ski Dubai ‘ that gives the feeling of a winter fairy tale in the midst of summer.

For a long time, I didn’t want to go there because we’d been to too many other malls. But when we finally went, I seriously loved the atmosphere with interesting design. The luxurious interior which includes high glass-domed ceilings, painted arches, and relief design walls, was complemented by excellent shopping opportunities and numerous cozy cafes and restaurants.

Observing winter fun of Ski Dubai through the glass window was also fascinating and kept us entertained for a while. And it was here where I saw penguins for the first time in my life!

In addition to winter fun, shops and numerous restaurants, Mall of Emirates has virtual reality shows Dreamscape , VOX cinema, entertainment center Magic Planet , bowling, and activities for children. 

It is really a cool Dubai sight to see on a first visit!

Visit One of the Best Beach Parks in Dubai – Al Mamzar Beach Park

I want to finish my list of attractions in Dubai with one of the best beaches and one of the most popular tourist destinations.

Al Mamzar Beach Park is a coastline washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf with an adjacent park that has everything for sports, beach and family recreation. The entire territory of the park complex is densely populated with exotic plants, bright flower beds and lawns. There is also a lovely swimming pool and an entertainment center.

It is a relaxing spot in Dubai where to come to spend one long day on the beach with white like powder sand, have bbq in the shade of trees, play beach volleyball, read a book in tranquility, or simply take photos of a beautiful skyscraper panorama. 

Park is open every day from 8:00 to 22:00 and entrance ticket is 5AED per person. 

Alright, this is my guide to must do things in Dubai for first time visitors! Visiting these places will provide an excellent opportunity to get to know the city and understand what it’s all about. Also don’t miss my other posts packed with many more tips for UAE travel! They’ll help you get the most out of your vacation!

Similar Posts in Other Regions 

• Visiting Morocco For the First Time – 10 Things to Know Before You Go
• First Time in Istanbul – 50 travel tips to make the most of a trip
• Istanbul Itinerary for First Timers – alternative route for 4 days in the city
• First Time in Kenya – travel tips & safety advice

Anya is originally from Ukraine but in heart she is a citizen of the world. She is working online and that’s why has an opportunity to travel a lot and live in different countries. At present time, she is based in Spain while waiting for the war in Ukraine to be over to be able to return home. On this blog, her main goal is to inspire others to travel to under-the-radar places and discover the world while working remotely.

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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

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

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Before you fly

UAE Visa Information

Do i need a visa for the uae.

You’ll find information about visas below. Use our quick visa search tool to see if you need a visa and the passport requirements for visiting the UAE.

UAE visa on arrival

Preapproved uae visas, prearranged uae visas, sponsoring someone to visit the uae, contact information, 30-day visit eligibility.

If you are a passport holder of the below country or territory, no advance visa arrangements are required to visit the UAE. Simply disembark your flight at Dubai International and proceed to immigration, where your passport will be stamped with a 30-day visit visa free of charge.

90-day visit eligibility

If you are a passport holder of one of the below countries or territories, your passport will be stamped with a multiple entry 90-day visit visa that's valid for 6 months from the date of issue, and for a stay of 90 days in total. Citizens of the below European countries are also entitled to apply for a pre-arranged visit visa if their 90-day visa on arrival has been fully utilized.

180-day visit eligibility

If you hold a Mexican passport you’re eligible for a multiple entry 180-day visit visa that's valid for 6 months from the date of issue, and for a stay of 180 days in total.

Dubai immigration procedures

As an added security measure, Immigration Authorities at Dubai International are now conducting random eye screening for visitors to Dubai.

Visitors asked to proceed for eye screening are required to present a hard copy of their visa or a printed version of the visa number confirmation page at the screening counter. If you do not have a copy with you, a charge of AED 30 per copy applies - payable only in AED.

Important information

Before you travel to the UAE, please check your visa requirements and make sure you have a valid visa if needed, or if your passport needs to be valid for 6 months. Holders of non-standard passports and travel documents may also have different entry requirements: find out if you need to apply for a visa and other passport requirements.

As of 29 April 2016, GCC residence permit holders will need to apply for a UAE visa before arriving in Dubai.

New visit entry permit to the UAE for Indian nationals

From 7 January 2024, eligible Indian nationals with a normal passport valid for a minimum of six months can obtain a single entry, 14-day visa on arrival. A fee of USD 63 applies.

Eligibility

• Indian passport holder with USA visa valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with USA green card valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with UK residence card valid for a minimum of six months
• Indian passport holder with EU residence card from the following countries valid for a minimum of six months

How and where to apply for a pre-approved UAE visa

Eligible Indian nationals can apply for their UAE entry permit on emirates.com through Manage your booking .

• For Extension, Original passport and ticket copy required.
• Extensions can be made at the airport office only.

Required applicant documents.

• Colour photograph of applicant
• Colour copy of applicant's passport. The passport must be valid for at least six months
• You can download the application form (available at all Emirates Ticketing Offices) in  Arabic (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  or English (Opens a PDF in a new tab)  depending on the applicant’s nationality.
• A copy of your Emirates Airline ticket, or codeshare flight that starts with the code “EK”, and the ticket number should start with “176”.
• Proof of relationship if applying for family member - birth certificate, marriage certificate and family book
• All Documents to be submitted as hard copy
• Additional documents may be required by the authorities.

Additional documents are required for visitors of some countries

Additional documents may be required, depending on your country of residence. Please use our visa search tool above or visit our visa requirements page for more information.

Rules and conditions

• Sponsor or applicant will be responsible for a visitor overstay and overstay fines.
• A Refundable deposit of AED 1000 for friend. Sponsor must claim the deposit within a maximum of 2 years from the application submission date.
• Refund of visa fee before processing of an application, AED 50 will be deducted on refund process.
• Visa fees must be paid upon application.
• Additional visa processing fees may apply.
• Visa fees are non-refundable.
• The ticket is non-refundable if the visa has been issued and utilized.
• Visa processing time is approximately 3 to 4 working days.
• Entry into the UAE is subject to immigration approval.
• All visas are valid to enter Dubai for 60 days from the date of issue, except the 96-hour and 48-hour visas, which are valid for 30 days from the date of issue.

How and where to apply for your prearranged UAE visa

• Apply online through Manage your booking
• 48-hour and 96-hour transit visas are valid for travel with Emirates tickets outbound from Dubai. You can only apply for a transit visa online or at the Emirates Commercial Visa APT office at Dubai International airport Terminal 3.

Apply online

Nationals of countries requiring a prearranged UAE visa can now apply and pay for their visas online through emirates.com.

If you are travelling to or stopping over in Dubai with Emirates, you can submit an application and receive your UAE visa entirely online – without having to submit your passport for stamping. You can apply for your UAE visa through our Manage your booking after you book your Emirates flight. VFS processing fees apply. For more information please visit VFS Global.

The online visa application service is available for residents and nationals of many countries around the world. Find out if you can apply for a UAE visa. Applicants' passports must have at least six months' validity as of their date of travel to Dubai, and must be machine readable passports – handwritten passports are not accepted.

This service is only available to passengers with a confirmed Emirates booking where an Emirates ticket has already been issued and the flight itinerary already includes the desired time in Dubai. The itinerary into and out of Dubai should be on one ticket (PNR), and these flights must be Emirates flights. Note that any itineraries including any flights to or from Dubai on other carriers are not eligible for the online visa service.

A minimum of four international working days prior to arrival in Dubai is required, however Emirates does recommend that online applications are made as early as possible.

Apply in the UAE

If you have a family member or near relative who is a UAE resident, they can apply for a visa on your behalf at any of our ticketing offices in the UAE. Please note that this service is only available to residents of the UAE.

Download the prearranged visa application form

Get started on your prearranged visa application by downloading and filling out the form.

Required applicant documents:

• A colour passport photograph
• A colour copy of your passport (must be valid for six months)
• The visa application form

Required sponsor documents:

Minimum salary required, download the sponsorship application form.

Get started on your sponsorship application by downloading and filling out the form.

Visa and sponsorship applications can be submitted to:

Abu Dhabi Emirates Ticketing Office: Al Sawari Tower C, Corniche Road, Abu Dhabi, UAE. Visa Services: Monday to Thursday (8:30am to 5pm) Friday (8:30am to 4:30pm) Closed on Saturday, Sunday, and public holidays.

Ajman Emirates Ticketing Office Escape Tower, Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid Street Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9am to 8pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Al Ain Emirates Ticketing Office Commercial Complex, Sheikh Khalifa Street Visa Services: Monday to Friday (8:30am to 6pm) and Saturday (8:30am to 5:30pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Dubai International: Terminal 3 Arrivals Phone: 04 504 7300 E-mail: [email protected] Visa Services: Monday to Friday (7am to 7pm) and Saturday (9am to 4pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Emirates Ticketing Office: Emirates Group Technology Centre, Ground Floor Entrance B, Al Ittihad Road, near Clock Tower, Deira Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (10am to 4pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

Emirates Ticketing Office: Town Centre, Jumeirah Visa Services: Daily from (10am to 4pm)

VFS Global Services GCC VASCO Worldwide 2nd floor, WAFI Mall, Level 2, Falcon Phase 2, Umm Hurair 2, Dubai, UAE

Sharjah Emirates Ticketing Office: Crystal Plaza, Buhaira Corniche Visa Services: Monday to Saturday (9am to 7pm) Closed on Sunday and public holidays

• Before You Fly
• Visa and Passport
• UAE visa information

Dubai in 6 Days – Your Complete Day-by-Day Itinerary for Dubai

What can you do in dubai with 6 days [+ more ideas if you have longer].

Dubai is an incredible and eclectic Middle East mega-city situated in the Arabian Peninsula along the Arabian Gulf’s shores.

Some mere 60 years ago, it was little more than a bustling trading port sitting along the banks of Dubai Creek; now, it’s one of the world’s most talked-about cities known for its superlative extremes, year-round sunshine, innovation, incredible architecture, and a complete melting point of cultures from around the world with a vastly expatriate population.

So is it possible to capture the best of Dubai in just 6 days? It’ll be a squeeze, but we’re going to show you how!

The 6-Day Dubai itinerary we’ve set out for you below will take you through all the different aspects of Dubai, from the modern skyscrapers and architectural feats to more traditional parts of the city, the desert, and a day trip further afield thrown in. Mix and match the days to suit your interests best – plus, we share extra day trip ideas if you have even longer to explore.

Things to know before visiting Dubai

Transport in dubai for 6 days, day 1 – 6 day dubai itinerary: old meets new, day 2 – 6 day dubai itinerary: modern dubai, day 3 – 6 day dubai itinerary: beach & desert, day 4 – 6 day dubai itinerary: abu dhabi day trip, day 5 – 6 day dubai itinerary: dubai theme park day, day 6 – 6 day dubai itinerary: shopping & splurge on something unique, souk madinat jumeirah, only in dubai experiences, additional activities for your dubai itinerary, frequently asked questions about dubai itineraries, before you go… more important things you should know when planning a trip to dubai.

This is a super detailed guide so do bookmark this page for later in your browser or save it to Pinterest

You may also want to check out these itineraries

Before we dive into the juicy details of WHAT TO DO, make sure you’ve checked out our essential planning information too. We cover in much greater detail:

• Things to know before planning a visit to Dubai – Visas, laws, customs & religious aspects to be aware of.
• What to pack for Dubai – dress code advice and a comprehensive packing list for Dubai can be found here.
• The best places to stay in Dubai – let’s talk budget and location in more detail over here.
• Dubai dining guides – all our favourite places to eat, dining specialities, bars, and special occasions.
• Best times to visit Dubai – don’t be caught out by the weather or religious events, here are the ideal times to visit Dubai.
• Take out travel insurance! We are in an ever-changing world at present, whilst Dubai remains open for business, don’t get caught short; make sure your trip is comprehensively insured.

Over the course of using our 6-day itinerary, you will need to take a combination of taxis, the Metro, and private tours.

We’ve given basic directions on how to get to each place by public transport if possible, or where you may need a taxi to get door-to-door with ease. You can find our complete guide to Dubai Transport options here .

Metro Cost: If you stay in Dubai for around one week, it is recommended to get a Silver Nol and top it up with a 7 Day Pass (The card costs 25 AED with 19 AED in credit, then a regular weekly Metro pass is 110 AED). We explain all the fares in more detail here.

A note on taxies: In the hottest part of the year (i.e. about May to October!), be wary of how far you can walk during the day. Places may look relatively close and within walking distance on a map, but under the heat of the sun, a short taxi/Careem/Uber ride may very much be worth it (noting a minimum fare applies of 12 AED applies to Dubai Taxis ).

Hiring a car: Unless you are a super-confident driver or plan on taking several trips out of the city, you are best relying on taxis and tours for your out-of-town trips during a one-week stay in Dubai.

What can I fit into 6 days in Dubai?

With only 6 days in Dubai, you need to be careful with your time management and no doubt book a few activities in advance, especially if you’re visiting at peak tourism times. Given COVID restrictions, many venues continue to have capacity limits.

When planning out your days, note that the weekend in Dubai is Friday & Saturday; these days are MUCH busier with local residents also out and about, especially Friday afternoons after prayer time . Some attractions may open later on a Friday.

We set out for you here a balanced itinerary for seeing everything that Dubai has to offer, but also included below is a table of additional activities that you can mix and match to your tastes.

For a comprehensive list of everything there is to see and do in Dubai, pop over here – we have 150+ ideas!.

Step back into the Dubai of the past from Bedouin roots to bustling Dubai Creek .

For your first day of sightseeing in Dubai, it really helps to go back to the grassroots of what Dubai city is about; a busy trading port city based around Dubai Creek.

Get your bearings at Dubai Frame

Let’s start your exploration of Dubai taking in the views from the Dubai Frame. Pretty much what it says – it’s a giant picture frame! One of the first tourist highlights you will capture coming from the airport into the city.

You ascend up one side of the 150m high frame (48 floors) and then walk across the top. The see-through floored sky deck gives you fabulous views of Old Dubai, Dubai Creek to Sharjah and beyond in one direction, and the modern skyscrapers of Downtown Dubai to the other.

Learn more about visiting the Dubai Frame here

Getting there: Nearest Metro is Al Jafiliya for Zabeel Park but it’s a decent walk, you may prefer a taxi/Uber drop off

Wander Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

This is the oldest part of Dubai city, a labyrinth of narrow laneways that date back to the 19th century. The historic area (previously known as Bastakiya) is protected so that the city’s heritage does not become lost forever under the sprawling skyscrapers. Most of the traditional sandy-coloured low-rise buildings are now galleries, museums, and small cafes.

Within this area, you will find the Dubai Museum, housed within the Al Faihi Fort which dates back to 1787. At only 3 AED you should definitely pop your head in for more insight into the country’s Bedouin past and the pre-oil era of Dubai. {CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS SINCE EARLY 2021}

There are many other Dubai museums to be discovered within the laneways, the Coffee Museum is one of our favourites worth seeking out.

Getting there: Al Fahidi Bus Station or Al Fahidi Metro station

Lunch at Al Seef Waterfront

By now you have most certainly worked up an appetite, so if you’ve not stopped for lunch in XVA Cafe or Arabian Tea House situated within Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, now would be time to head to one of many restaurants in this waterfront development. Seamlessly blending old with new it’s directly across the street, next to the Al Fahidi Marine Transport Station.

Al Seef is set up like a traditional souk so you’ll be able to do your shopping here too. Kids may enjoy popping into the Museum of Illusions or have some fun with photos in the instagrammable laneways.

Cross Dubai Creek on an Abra

An absolute must for an authentic old Dubai experience! Whilst there are far more modern methods these days of crossing the city, a traditional abra at 1 AED per person is still a steal!

Explore the Traditional Deira Souks

Depending on the heat you could spend several hours lost in the laneways of Deira, the most popular stops being the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk. It’s all open-air so it can be heavy going and a bit of walking mid-afternoon in the hotter months.

You’ll find a few more museums in this area of the city too, Naif Museum and Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili are worth seeking out.

If you need to escape to airconditioning at this point, Al Ghurair Centre offers an indoor shopping option – a more modern mall you can still pick up cheap(er) clothing and electronics here before starting your evening exploration.

Take a food tour in Old Dubai

For the evening, its time to take in some local cuisines. Being the multicultural city that Dubai is, you can be sure there are many dishes vying for attention as “local” cuisine, in addition to traditional Emirati or Bedouin-style dishes.

One of the most highly recommended food tours in Dubai is Frying Pan Adventures which offer various options for small groups to have authentic experiences in the streets of Dubai. Most group tours start and end in Deira.

A boat cruise on Dubai Creek

A great way to see how busy and bustling Dubai Creek can be, even at night, is by taking a dinner cruise on Dubai Creek .

An alternative is to hire a guide for your first day , you will get informative commentary along the way as well as help with transportation and getting your bearing in the city before hitting modern Dubai on your own!

TIP: Whilst the dress code in Dubai is quite loose around the beach, heading to the older parts of town it’s definitely advisable and polite to cover up more – we talk more about what’s appropriate when here.

Explore around Downtown Dubai, from towering heights to mighty fountains and everything in between .

In complete contrast to Day 1, let’s take you over to the glimmering skyscrapers of Downtown Dubai and the ultra-modern side of the city.

Often touted as the biggest shopping mall in the world (though technically it’s not !), there are a plethora of indoor experiences to have just inside Dubai Mall, other than shopping! Especially if you’re visiting in the summer, its easy to spend 2 days just exploring everything this mega mall has to offer.

Let’s be realistic though and assume with half a day you can explore one of:

• The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

There are plenty more things to see and do indoors and some just outside and on the roof – see the full list of Dubai Mall attractions here .

Getting there: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station on the Red Line Metro then there’s an airconditioned travellator connecting you to the entire surrounding area of Downtown

Scale the Burj Khalifa

It would be hard to set out a Dubai itinerary and not include THE most iconic building in the city – the tallest building in the world no less! Yes, you can travel to the observation deck of the building on the 124th and 125th floors (extra packages take you to the 148th floor!), or even dine at At.mosphere restaurant and lounge on Level 122.

If you’re unsure what experience might suit you, head over to our complete visitor’s guide to visiting the Burj Khalifa where we set out all your visiting options – no outside climbing permitted Mission Impossible-style!

If there’s one part of your Dubai itinerary you simply must book in advance it’s the Burj Khalifa. Tickets at the door are extortionately more expensive and can sell out. Do allow a good 2 hours for queuing and having a good look around. Note sunset and sunrise slots (only on weekends) cost more.

Souk Al Bahar

Another spot to explore nearby is Souk Al Bahar . Accessed over a pedestrian bridge from Dubai Mall, this modern market is made in the design of a traditional souk offering handicrafts through to fine dining and spectacular views over Burj Lake.

You can find a good selection of places to grab a drink and bite around downtown Dubai here .

Evening in Downtown Dubai

There are several ways to continue enjoying Downtown Dubai well into the evening, its the hub of Dubai nightlife alongside JBR/Dubai Marina.

The Dubai Fountain show is one of the most popular free things to do in Dubai . Starting from 6:00 PM nightly, then every half hour watch the fabulously choreographed light and sound show on Burj Lake, sitting at the foot of Burj Khalifa. Later in the evening the Burj Khalifa also lights up for half-hourly shows.

For a close-up view of the fountain show, you can take an abra ride on the lake . Alternatively, our favourite is to pick out one of the restaurants with uninterrupted views in either Dubai Mall or Souk Al Bahar and dine whilst getting to see the show a few times over without the crowds.

If your trip happens to align with something you enjoy at Dubai Opera , this is another sensational Downtown Dubai experience to get glammed up for.

If concrete and modern Dubai is really not you, then head to the listing below of the best cultural activities to continue on a few more activities we couldn’t squeeze in Day 1. A day trip to the Heart of Sharjah may be preferable if the older side of the UAE interests you more.

A day for sand and surf – dune surfing that is!

Whether you are staying in one of Dubai’s luxury beachfront hotels or not, with 6 days you really need to squeeze in some relaxing time in the sun too!

After two days of heavy touring, it’s time to leisurely stroll into day 3 at one of Dubai’s famous beachfront districts (choose one, you’ll never fit two into a day!) before heading to the dunes late afternoon.

JBR, Bluewaters, Dubai Marina

A lot of first-timers to Dubai find the area of JBR and Dubai Marina a great place to start. Familiarise yourself with The Walk & The Beach , then if you’d like to stretch your legs further, take a walk over to the ultra-modern Bluewaters Island to dine and marvel at the Dubai skyline along Jumeirah Beach

( Ain Dubai , the largest observation wheel in the world was briefly open to the public in 2021/22 but has since remained closed, its reopening remains a bit of a mystery)

You can easily spend a whole day in the JBR area between activities along the beach – think inflatable water parks, splash pads, jet ski, and flyboarding, Flying Cup sky-high dining – read more on what to do around JBR here!

You may also want to head out into the stunning Gulf waters with a cruise. Plentiful operators can be found in Dubai Marina from speed boat tours around Palm Jumeirah, or for a more sedate experience at a fraction of the cost, the RTA Ferry is a winner (with kids at least – they love anything that goes!)

Getting there: JBR/Dubai Marina is the perfect place to stay with 6 days in Dubai due to the high number of spacious hotel apartments, or by Metro take Red Line to DAMAC Properties or DMCC Metro Station

La Mer (Now closed; To be replaced by J1 Beach later in 2024)

Another ultra-modern beachfront area of the city to explore is La Mer. An eclectic mix of palm-tree-lined walkways, retail, dining & play opportunities. There’s even a mini water park here. As pretty at night as it is by day La Mer is a trendy new addition for families and singles alike to enjoy Dubai’s modern vibes.

If you don’t want to spend the whole day simply at the beach – or it’s simply too hot after an hour or so – La Mer sees you close to both the Jumeirah Mosque – the largest mosque in Dubai open to the public for daily tours – and Etihad Museum , telling the story of the country’s unification in 1971.

Another short hop away is the Shindagha historic district near Mina Port, another great way to learn about Dubai’s past.

Getting there: No direct Metro stop (nearest is Financial Centre then a 10-minute taxi), or take bus 8, 9, or 88 along Jumeirah Beach Road

Dubai also has plenty of public beaches , some are completely free and others have a small Dubai municipality charge but great facilities. Local favourites include Al Mamzar Park and Kite Beach has slightly bigger waves than others, or head to Sunset Beach for iconic views of the Burj Al Arab .

Dubai Desert Safari

In the afternoon, get set to experience the Dubai desert. There are numerous tour operators who have camps set up in the dunes just outside of the city, as well as a select few operators in the protected Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve .

A typical desert safari trip will include city pickups, then you’ll travel by 4×4 into the dunes, doing some dune bashing along the way before an offering of sand sports – pick from quad bikes, fat bikes , sandboarding, dune buggies , camel rides , henna painting, shisha then join a communal BBQ dinner.

Alternatively, if you are more interested in seeing the desert wildlife than the sand sports, opt for premium options offered by Platinum Heritage , a little more pricey but smaller groups, and a more genuine desert experience.

Getting there: No need to worry about your 4×4 skills, tour operators will pick you up from your hotel or a convenient city location

You can do Day 3 of our 6-day Dubai itinerary in reverse too; If you take an early morning desert safari you can get out and beat the heat, then spend the rest of your day enjoying one of the beachfront areas, perhaps book yourself into a relaxing beach club experience at one of the nice hotel resorts and finish off your day with sundowners on the beach .

If you are visiting in the peak of summer , you would likely need to modify or scratch this largely outdoor day and replace it with some further activities from our indoor guide to Dubai

No trip to the UAE is complete without seeing the Capital, Abu Dhabi.

The most iconic of buildings to visit in Abu Dhabi is the simply stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque .

Whilst it is possible to squeeze in a trip to the Grand Mosque only on a half-day trip to Abu Dhabi – it’s less than 90 minutes on a tour coach from Dubai to Abu Dhabi – you’d be doing yourself an injustice not to see more of the city.

Learn more here on border crossing requirements Dubai to Abu Dhabi

Getting there: If you want to move at your own pace then definitely hire a car for your Abu Dhabi day trip, but catching a tour is the easiest option – the big price differential is whether you join a shared tourist coach or take a private tour

We have more details here on the spectacular places in Abu Dhabi you can squeeze in on a one-day trip from Dubai – including the Louvre Museum and Qasr al Watan, the Presidential Palace. A longer itinerary would see at least 2 to 3 days spent in Abu Dhabi to properly capture the highlights of the capital.

If you are a theme park junkie, you may want to even stay overnight and enjoy Day 5 at the Yas Island theme parks , just as good (if not better!) than their Dubai counterparts – Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, SeaWorld & Ferrari World.

Abu Dhabi is but one of the other 7 Emirates of the United Arab Emirates (albeit by far the largest in size and the richest in oil!). Dubai is quite central in the country so it is a great base for exploring the rest of the Emirates. We have more ideas listed below for alternative or additional day trips from Dubai .

Where to stay in Abu Dhabi? For the Yas Island theme parks definitely overnight in the brand new Hilton Yas Island . For views of the Grand Mosque, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi or Fairmont Bab Al Bahr on the Grand Canal are good choices closer to Dubai end of town.

Those staying longer in Abu Dhabi, pop on over to our Abu Dhabi Travel Planner website .

Thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies will never be left disappointed in Dubai .

Now if you have littles travelling with you (or big kids at heart!) you may well need to move theme park day further up the itinerary or dedicate two full days.

There’s a superb selection of world-class theme parks to choose from in Dubai . If you’re visiting in the beautiful shoulder seasons (approximately March to May and October to November), our top pick would be one of the mega water parks – choose from Atlantis Aquaventure or Wild Wadi at Jumeirah .

(NB if you stay at Atlantis the Palm or any of the Jumeirah hotels , your water park entry will be included!)

Over the coolest part of the year (December to February), Dubai Parks & Resorts is our top choice. Here you can choose between four connected theme parks (ideally you can fit in two of these in a day – three at a squeeze):

• Legoland Dubai
• Legoland Dubai Water Park
• Real Madrid World

And if it’s the peak of summer, the top pick goes to IMG Worlds of Adventure – think Marvel characters to Cartoon Network-themed rides and activities. IMG is entirely indoors to beat the heat.

If theme parks really aren’t your thing, we strongly suggest checking our alternate suggestions for day trips & cultural activities you could add on below.

Getting there: The Theme Parks in Dubai are all quite spread out, Atlantis Aquaventure is on the outer crescent of Palm Jumeirah and Wild Wadi is close to Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Dubai Parks & Resorts is in Jebel Ali, beyond the end of the Metro and IMG Worlds of Adventure sits south of the city. In a group, it’s worth getting a taxi for this day

On your last day, it’s time to tick off anything you’re yet to see and do from our ideas above and engage in something uniquely Dubai.

The perfect place for a little retail therapy in Dubai, Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a modern souk (market) built in traditional style, with indoor and outdoor (seasonal) stalls and shops offering tourist tat to genuine souvenirs and a superb range of eateries to choose from.

You can get some brilliant Burj Al Arab views here and even take an abra out on the waterways around the extravagant Jumeirah hotels (a bit more pricey than the 1 AED on Dubai Creek but what an amazing backdrop!).

Getting there: Souk Madinat Jumeirah is not on the Metro but you can get to Mall of the Emirates and a short taxi from there, or stop at Internet City and then hop on Bus 88.

Finish off your trip to Dubai by partaking in some of the most unique “only in Dubai” experiences including:

• Enjoy a sunrise balloon ride over the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
• Try afternoon tea at the “7-star” Burj Al Arab
• Skydive over Palm Jumeirah
• Zipline across Dubai Marina
• Seaplane journey over the city
• Dine in the world’s highest restaurant

If you’ve not had the opportunity yet, find one of Dubai’s dramatic rooftop bars (seasonal) to finish off your incredible week in Dubai with dramatic views over the city skyline or the Arabian Gulf.

There was only so much we could fit in an initial 6-day itinerary!

If some of the above activities do not appeal, were out of your budget, or perhaps you’d like to add some additional days to make it a 10 day or two-week itinerary, here’s what you could look to add:

Additional family activities

• Admire the floral wonders at Dubai Miracle Garden (seasonal)
• Be enchanted by Dubai Garden Glow & Dinosaur Park (seasonal)
• Take on indoor skiing at Mall of the Emirates
• Meet the animals at Dubai Safari Park
• Zipline through the Ghaf forest at Aventura Parks
• Catch the nightly Imagine water show at Festival City or the fountain show at The Pointe
• Go bird spotting at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

See our complete guide to Dubai activities for kids here

Additional cultural activities

• More for museum and culture lovers, we highly recommend a day spent in neighbouring emirate Sharjah
• Explore the Al Shindagha district, the heritage village, and Saeed Al Maktoum House
• Spend half a day with the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding – cultural walks, meals and tours
• Visit the oasis city of Al Ain, with the UAE’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed oasis and beehive tombs, as well as the Al Ain Zoo and Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre , one of the best displays dating to pre-historic UAE

Additional Dubai itinerary day trips

• Head over the mountains to the east coast and spend some time in Fujairah including snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities
• Scale to the UAE’s tallest peak in Ras Al Khaimah and experience a modern pearl diving farm
• Cross the border into the remote Omani enclave of Musandam for a day of sailing, dolphin spotting and snorkelling
• Check out the amazing outdoor adventures, hikes, and water sports on offer at Wadi Hub, Hatta

See our complete guide to Dubai day trips

Additional adventure activities

• Turn a desert safari into a night under the stars and overnight glamping experience
• Join a longer camel trek in the desert
• Take on the world’s longest zipline in the Hajar Mountains
• Experience the excitement of camel races on the Al Marmoom Race track
• Try flyboarding or jet skiing in the Arabian Gulf!
• Go cage diving with the sharks at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

It really depends if you’re coming just to get a taster for future trips, a stopover on a long journey or simply to relax in the sun. If you want to “see it all” and explore more of the UAE and the Arabain Peninsula, no it’s not enough, we’d recommend two weeks to thoroughly cover the United Arab Emirates. 6 days will be good – though very busy – sample of everything the country has to offer but with plenty left to enjoy on future trips to Dubai.

Yes, in theory, you could squeeze in an exciting and action-packed trip to both cities in 6 days, but you will be exhausted and only scratch the surface. You can fit the very biggest highlights of Abu Dhabi into one day but realistically, give yourself 2 to 3 in Abu Dhabi and 7 or 8 in Dubai, 14 days if you really want to see the whole of the United Arab Emirates with a few break days built-in.

It depends on what sort of budget you are operating at. We talk more about money matters here . If you consider a cheapish hotel room for two, close to the Metro can be obtained for around 200 AED, a day pass on the Metro 20AED, meals, if you go cheap and cheerful, could boil down to 50-100AED a day. So before your airfares and any fancy extras like waterpark days or desert tours, let’s say 300AED per day or c1800 AED for 6 days in Dubai ($490USD). It’s not the cheapest city but there are ways you can save money as we discuss in our budget guide 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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The Ultimate Dubai Layover Guide: How to Spend 6 Hours, 1 or 2 Days

• January 16, 2023
• 11 minute read

Psst, FYI – this post may contain affiliate links, which means I earn a small commission (at absolutely no extra cost to you) and ads keep this blog free for you to enjoy. Thanks for supporting the free content on this site (and for sponsoring more doggy treats for little Albus!)

Are you traveling via Dubai and have a few hours to spare at the airport and are considering a Dubai layover? If you’re flying between Asia and the Americas, you will likely be making a stop here. After flying for many years, Dubai has always been just a stopover for me but I’ve always only been familiar with the four walls of the airport. This time, I decided to venture out and extend my layover to a 2-night stay to finally explore the city! If you’re thinking of doing the same, this guide will help you plan out your Dubai layover!

In this guide, you’ll also find useful tips to help you get the most out of your stopover in this bustling metropolis. There are also some hotel suggestions for a short visit to Dubai at the end of this article.

• 1 Can you leave the Dubai airport during a layover?
• 2 Do you need a visa if you have a layover in Dubai?
• 3 Duration of the UAE Dubai Transit Visa
• 4 How to apply for a UAE Dubai transit visa
• 5 Dubai Layover Itinerary Options
• 6 Where to stay on your Dubai layover
• 7 Staying Connected with a Dubai SIM Card
• 8 Visiting Dubai Checklist
• 9 MY TOP TRAVEL TIPS & RESOURCES

Can you leave the Dubai airport during a layover?

The short answer is yes – there are plenty of things to do in the Dubai airport to keep you entertained. On the other hand,  if you have a long stopover in Dubai then leaving the airport is absolutely fine, as long as you have the right visa . You don’t need a visa if you’re just transiting through Dubai airport.

Do you need a visa if you have a layover in Dubai?

If you’re considering a layover in the UAE, you might need to obtain a visa to exit the airport. The good news is that getting a UAE stopover visa is simple and straightforward!

You will need a UAE Dubai transit visa, if: 

• You don’t have a passport of a country that is on the UAE visa on arrival or a visa-free entrance list. (You can visit the official website to check if you’re eligible for a visa on arrival or not).
• You are not a citizen of the countries (GCC region) exempted from that UAE Tourist Visas.
• Your onward flight is in the next 48 or 96 hours

Duration of the UAE Dubai Transit Visa

The UAE issues two types of single entry transit visas, visas issued for 48 and 96 hours. You have to apply for a visa prior to your arrival in the country. Note that both 48-hour AND 96-hour visas expire within 30 days of issue. Moreover, the 48-hour visa cannot be extended to 96 hours once it is issued. 

How to apply for a UAE Dubai transit visa

Only the UAE based-airlines you are traveling through can arrange your transit visa prior to your journey. If your trip is through a travel agency, the agency can also help you get the visa, but all visas are routed through the airline. 

So make sure to check with your airline or travel agency ahead of travel for your Dubai transit visa.

Dubai Layover Itinerary Options

6-12 hours layover in dubai , option 1 – dubai mall and burj khalifa.

This itinerary is perfect if you have at least 6 hours to spare in Dubai, so you can make the best of your time. 

TIP : If you have less than 6 hours in Dubai, I would suggest booking premium lounge access at the airport, as immigration can sometimes take a long time in Dubai. Add in the time waiting for transport in and out of the airport, it’s just not worth the stress of leaving the airport and rushing back in time!

Dubai is all about that boujee living: Rolls Royces and Bentleys everywhere on the street, gold flakes on your coffee, and all that jazz. So where better to immerse yourself in all that luxe than in Dubai Mall – the world’s largest destination for shopping, entertainment, and leisure, and it’s right next to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.

Dubai Mall is only 15 minutes from the airport by car, and you can easily hail a cab or take an Uber. I took an Uber everywhere during my trip, and it was easy and convenient. Alternatively, If you’d like to save the hassle, you can book a private airport transfer in advance.

Burj Khalifa

Think Dubai and you’ll think of the Burj Khalifa – the tallest building in the world. Impressively standing at 830m tall (that’s more than half a mile!), admiring it from below feels so surreal. If you have time, I suggest also going to the top of the world’s tallest building for sweeping views of Dubai. Burj Khalifa At The Top is a very popular experience and often sold out, so I suggest booking the Burj Khalifa tickets in advance .

Dubai Fountains

This is one of the best spots to admire the Burj Khalifa, and as if that wasn’t impressive enough, the Dubai Fountains light up every day with a music and light show. And since they’ve got the world’s largest mall, the world’s tallest building, why stop there? The Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest performing fountain! Best of all, it’s free .

Show schedule: Daily 6pm to 11pm (every 30 minutes); Seasonally, lunchtime performances may be added at 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM (1:30 PM & 2:00 PM weekends)

It’s nice to catch the first fountain show at dusk and then return for a nighttime show when you can also capture LED lighting displays on the Burj Khalifa from 7.45 PM.

Take note that the fountains can get incredibly crowded, especially during show times. There are a few other ways you can enjoy the music and light show: 

• Take a fountain lake ride on a traditional abra around Burj Lake
• Walk on to the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk
• Dine at one of the nearby restaurants with outdoor seating over the lake
• From the top of Burj Khalifa!

It’s best to be in position around 15 minutes before the show to get a good spot. 

Dubai Mall restaurants with fountain views

• On the lower ground level try; Social House – casual international dining, Carluccios – Italian, Wafi Gourmet – Lebanese. For some quick bites, look out for Nandos, Pizza Hut, KFC .
• Level 1 – OFK (Open Flame Kitchen) – upscale international
• Level 2 – TGI Fridays – American dining, Tribes – casual African

Souk Al Bahar restaurants with fountain views

• Bice Mare – Italian Seafood
• Serafina – Italian
• Karma Kafe – Pan Asian
• For smaller bites, you can grab from Deluca Café and Baker & Spice

Dubai Aquarium

Dubai Aquarium is located inside the Dubai Mall itself. You can see the gigantic aquarium from the mall (and it’s free!). You can also visit the actual aquarium itself by purchasing tickets here . As with all other attractions in Dubai, I advise booking your tickets in advance as the queue can get really long at certain times, and you wouldn’t want to spend your precious time in a queue. Plus, advanced tickets are cheaper! Book your Dubai Aquarium tickets here. 

TIP : If you’re planning to visit the Burj Khalifa and the Aquarium, consider purchasing this 2-in-1 ticket for Burj Khalifa and Dubai Aquarium which is much cheaper than buying them individually! Book your tickets now.

And if you’re a shopaholic like me, shopping in the world’s largest shopping mall is sort of like a pilgrimage! Don’t forget to put on your walking shoes though because this mall is seriously huge. You could easily spend a week here and still not see everything. 

Option 2 – Sightseeing tour

Alternatively, if you want to have everything taken care of for you, this Dubai Layover Tour was specially designed for short layovers. You’ll be greeted at the airport by your guide and be whisked away to the land of old gold and spice souks. This private tour also includes tickets to the Top of the Burj. All you have to do is relax in your air-conditioned vehicle and see the best that Dubai has to offer, all in just 4.5 hours!

One-day Dubai layover itinerary

If you have at least one night or one full day on your Dubai layover, you can combine the visit to the Dubai Mall with one of these activities:

• Visit the Souqs . With all the glitz and glam of Dubai, sometimes it can be easy to forget how rich the old culture of Dubai is. A visit to Dubai’s famous traditional markets is a must – Spice Souq and Deira Gold Souq . Seeing all that glittering gold was definitely a huge eye-opener! I hadn’t seen such huge pieces of gold jewelry before!
• Take a walk down the manmade beach. Jumeriah Beach is a manmade beach on the coast of Dubai where most of the uber-luxurious hotels are located. It’s definitely worth a visit to sink your feet into the soft, white sand and admire the Burj Al-Arab , the world’s only 7-star hotel often touted as the eighth wonder of the world. If you’re ready for a splurge, a one-night stay here starts from $2,000!
• Palm Jumeirah. Just close by is the world-famous Palm Jumeirah, an archipelago of artificial islands. You’ve definitely seen aerial shots of this palm tree-shaped island! It’s certainly an experience driving through one of the spines of this island and imagining what it’s like to live like the rich and famous. If you have the budget, I highly recommend booking a night in one of the hotels here , as it is truly a unique experience.
• Dubai Marina . Dubai Marina is an upscale residential area, known for The Beach at JBR. This leisure complex offers outdoor dining and a relaxing sandy beach. The waterfront of Dubai Marina Walk is lined with hip cafés and pop-up craft markets, while the Dubai Marina Mall is lined with chain stores and high-end fashion brands. Luxury yachts cruise a man-made marina, where activities such as jet skiing and skydiving are available. It’s especially lively in the evening, and taking a sunset dinner cruise for spectacular views is the best way to enjoy the marina.

Two-day Dubai layover

If you have two days on your Dubai layover just like we did, I suggest spending one day doing the activities I suggested above, and for your second day, venturing a little further out of the city for more fun experiences!

Go on a Dubai desert safari

Going on a Dubai desert safari was definitely the highlight of my Dubai trip! You get picked up after lunchtime in a 4×4 and are transported to the sand dunes of Dubai, where you’ll get to experience some exhilarating dune bashing! If you’re a thrill seeker, I suggest taking the front seat to see all the plunges down the sand dunes!

You’ll also get to try some sandboarding! In the evening, you’ll take a camel ride into the sunset. As it gets dark, you’ll proceed to the Bedouin campsite where you can sip some Arabic coffee and munch on sweet dates. You’ll be entertained by spectacular belly dancing and tanoura dancing performances as well as an awesome fire show. I thought they would be very touristy, but they actually put on a really fun show! There was also a huge BBQ dinner, and I was impressed by the quality of the food. You’ll also get to try sheesha smoking and Henna painting.

And of course, cap off this wonderful evening by gazing at the star-spangled sky.

I highly recommend including this in your itinerary for an unforgettable experience. Book your Dubai desert safari here!

Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi

If I had another day in Dubai, I would definitely have loved to visit Abu Dhabi . It’s only a 1.5 hour drive away so it’s easily done in a day. Admire the immense opulence of the iconic Grand Sheikh Zayed Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world and visit the Heritage Village and get a glimpse into the traditional Bedouin way of life. The easiest way is to book a full-day tour where you’ll get picked up right at your hotel, and dropped back after – completely hassle-free!

Where to stay on your Dubai layover

Dubai is an expensive city, and hotels are no different, but there are still affordable options for your Dubai layover. I recommend staying close to the Dubai Mall so you’re close to food and entertainment options on your short layover. We stayed at an Airbnb close enough for us to walk to Dubai Mall. Here are some options for your stay:

• DAMAC Maison Dubai Mall Street (4⭐)
• Ramada Downtown Dubai (4⭐)
• The Dubai EDITION (6⭐)
• Address Boulevard (5⭐)
• Address Dubai Mall (5⭐)

Dubai is a city to splurge in, so if you’re prepared for that, here are some luxurious hotels to spoil yourself in:

• Burj Al Arab (7⭐ ) – The Burj al Arab Hotel or “Tower of the Arabs,” is said to be the world’s only 7-star hotel (!) , and is presently the third tallest hotel in the world. Prices start from $1,524 per night
• Jumeirah Al Qasr (5 ⭐) Prices start from $515 per night
• Marriott Resort Palm Jumeirah (5⭐) Prices start from $301 per night
• Atlantis, The Palm (5⭐) You’ve probably seen these unique hotel rooms at the Atlantis which feature immense floor-to-ceiling windows into a 65,000 marine animal aquarium, so you’ll wake up with the stunning views of the aquarium right from your bed. Prices start from $834 per night (for normal rooms) and $7,000 per night for the underwater suites (wowza!)

And if you’re a fashionista, I highly recommend staying in these hotels designed by some of the world’s biggest luxury fashion houses.

• Palazzo Versace Dubai (5⭐) – Every single piece of furniture and fabric that adorns the hotel’s 215 hotel rooms and suites, and 169 residences, is designed and tailor-made by the House of Versace exclusively for the Palazzo Versace Hotel in Dubai. Prices start from $260 per night
• Bulgari Resort Dubai (5⭐) – Situated on the manmade Jumeira Bay, an island carved into the shape of a seahorse and adjoined by a 300 m bridge to central Dubai coastline, Bulgari Hotel & Resorts, Dubai comprises a private Marina featuring 50 boat berths and the first world’s Bulgari Yacht Club with peerless views over the sea. Prices start from $1,225 per night
• Armani Hotel Dubai (5⭐) – Envisioned by fashion icon Giorgio Armani, this hotel has a private entrance and occupies 11 floors of Dubai’s iconic skyscraper, Burj Khalifa. It has a deluxe spa and direct access to Dubai Mall. Prices start from $579 per night

Staying Connected with a Dubai SIM Card

These days, it’s unheard of to be without a data connection when out and about. And what’s better than a FREE SIM card? Luckily in Dubai, you get a SIM card for free! You can collect your free SIM card at Dubai Airport’s passport control. Once you get your passport stamped, you will get your passport back along with a free Du Dubai SIM card. Just pop it into your phone and enjoy 1 GB of free data for 24 hours.

After 24 hours, you will have to top up to use the sim card, but at least that’s better than nothing! Especially if you’re only traveling for less than 24 hours.

Note : If you go through the automated passport scanner at customs, you won’t be handed a free SIM card! You will have to go to a booth with an officer to get your free Dubai SIM card.

Alternatively, if you don’t want the hassle of changing SIM cards, you can download the Airalo app , purchase a package, and get connected instantly! This is my favorite way to stay connected as it saves all the hassle of buying a SIM card and messing about with these tiny SIMs. PLUS, you can purchase the package in advance and get connected instantly even when you’re still on the plane! Find out more about Airalo.

So there you have it! I hope you’ve found some ideas for the best things to do on your short layover in Dubai. If you have any more suggestions or things I’ve missed out, please let me know in the comments below! Enjoy your trip!

Visiting Dubai Checklist

⇢ Compare accommodation options and prices on  Booking.com ⇢ Book tours in advance on  Klook  or  Viator ⇢ Get your  data roaming  sorted before you arrive with  Airalo ! ⇢ Spend abroad without hidden fees.  Sign up for a Wise travel credit card! ⇢ Don’t forget  travel insurance!  Travel insurance is the most overlooked purchase when traveling, but one of the most essential. Anything can happen when you’re on holiday and you’d want to be covered in the case of travel mishaps such as flight delays, personal accidents, or theft. Choose  World Nomads Travel Insurance , designed by travelers for travelers. ⇢ Don’t leave home without a  power bank!

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MY TOP TRAVEL TIPS & RESOURCES

Here are my top travel tips and resources to help you save money and plan your trips effectively! If you're looking for more tips, head over to my travel tips resource page or my comprehensive guide on trip planning .

• Booking Flights: When it comes to finding great flight deals, I always start my search on Google Flights or Skyscanner . To save some cash, consider flying mid-week or on the weekends, opt for carry-on only with budget airlines, and be open to red-eye or early morning flights. Check out my in-depth guide on how I find the cheapest flights .
• Accommodations : I'm a stickler for finding the absolute best deals on my stays, so I will obsessively oscillate between a few booking sites: Booking . com (in general) and Agoda (for Asian destinations). When it comes to vacation rentals, there's Airbnb or VRBO .
• Travel Insurance : It's always a wise decision to purchase travel insurance for international trips. I can't stress this enough - it's highly recommended! For international travel insurance, I suggest considering World Nomads or SafetyWing . SafetyWing , in particular, stands out as one of the few policies that cover Covid-19. They also offer excellent monthly policies that are perfect for digital nomads and long-term travelers!
• Travel Credit Card : My go-to travel credit card for booking trips is the Wise travel card. I love that there are no foreign transaction fees, so I can pay like a local and never get any surprises at the end of my trip. You can also withdraw cash from the ATMs wherever you are. With  Wise , you are always guaranteed the best exchange rate, and I have saved  sooo  much money just by using this card. Most of the time, I get charged the exchange rate I see on Google, plus or minus a few cents.
• Tours: Most times, I prefer traveling independently but sometimes, getting a guide and a local's perspective makes the experience all the more enriching. When it comes to tour bookings, I trust Viator and GetYourGuide to provide me with excellent options. In Asia, I choose Klook as they are the biggest provider in the region. Plus, you can often get entrance tickets and discounted prices!
• Transportation : To navigate through public transit options and plan my journeys from one place to another, I rely on Rome2Rio. When it comes to rental cars, I compare rental companies and find the best deals through DiscoverCars .
• Connection : It's essential to me to have seamless connectivity wherever I go. I need it to navigate to new places, Google what's around me, and keep in touch with my loved ones. But fumbling around with multiple SIMs has always been a nightmare, which is why I choose Airalo when I travel. No more switching SIMs, just purchase a plan on your phone, on the go, anywhere, and stay connected.
• Luggage Storage : Whenever I need to check out early or take advantage of a long layover, I securely store my luggage with Radical Storage . It's a reliable service that allows me to roam around freely. As a bonus, you can use this link to enjoy your first hour of FREE luggage storage on me!
• What to Pack : I always have packing anxiety once I've left home— you know the phantom feeling that you've forgotten something even though you've checked 372836 times . So I made my own packing list and use it religiously before every trip, and by religious I mean I tick off that list at least 7 times before I zip up my bag. Check out my in-depth packing list here.

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Hi! I’m Steph. You probably ended up here because just like me, you have an insatiable thirst for trotting the globe, or are just curious about travel. Get ready for brutally honest and in-depth travel guides that will be your trusty companions on global adventures. No fluff, just real talk and practical tips to make your journeys smooth. Join me as we conquer the globe, one epic destination at a time! Together, we’ll uncover hidden gems, laugh at mishaps, and create unforgettable memories. So grab your passport, pack your sense of adventure, and let’s embark on this thrilling journey!

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• February 16, 2023

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I have been to Israel a number of times, but have never been to an Arab country. UAE would be the one most likely to get tourism, though Jordan is also interesting. This guide helps me make a more informed decision, and I appreciate its thorough approach.

Hi Auren, glad this was of help to you. Thanks for stopping by! x Steph

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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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Dubai Stopover: 12 Hours In Dubai On A Layover Without Breaking The Bank

Published: September 20, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Carolin Byerly

• Budget Travel
• Travel Guide
• Travel Tips

Introduction

If you’re planning a long-haul trip that includes a layover in Dubai, you’re in for a treat. While layovers can often be seen as an inconvenience, a stopover in Dubai offers a unique opportunity to experience one of the most vibrant and dynamic cities in the world.

With its towering skyscrapers, luxurious resorts, and rich cultural heritage, Dubai has something to offer every traveler, even if you only have 12 hours to spare. Whether you’re a history buff, a shopaholic, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, this desert metropolis will leave you wanting more.

In this article, we’ll guide you on how to make the most of your Dubai stopover without breaking the bank. From exploring iconic landmarks to indulging in culinary experiences and enjoying outdoor activities, we’ll provide you with tips and recommendations to ensure a memorable and affordable layover experience in the city.

So, whether you’re transiting through Dubai on your way to another destination or simply making a pit stop, get ready to immerse yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this enchanting city. Let’s dive into your Dubai stopover adventure!

Preparing for your Dubai stopover

Before you embark on your Dubai stopover adventure, it’s important to do some preparation to make the most of your time in the city. Here are a few key things to consider:

• Check visa requirements: Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa to enter Dubai. Make sure to check the visa rules and requirements well in advance and apply for the necessary visa if needed.
• Plan your itinerary: With only 12 hours to explore Dubai, it’s crucial to plan your itinerary wisely. Identify what you want to see and do in the city, prioritize the must-visit attractions, and make a rough schedule to ensure that you don’t miss out on anything.
• Book in advance: To save both time and money, consider booking certain activities and attractions in advance. This includes tickets to popular attractions such as the Burj Khalifa or a desert safari tour.
• Check the weather: Dubai experiences scorching temperatures, especially during the summer months. Check the weather forecast for the day of your stopover and dress accordingly, opting for lightweight and breathable clothing.
• Stay connected: Make sure you have a reliable internet connection while in Dubai. This will allow you to access maps, communicate with loved ones, and easily search for information on the go. Consider purchasing a local SIM card or using a portable Wi-Fi device.

By taking these steps before your Dubai stopover, you’ll be well-prepared and ready to make the most of your limited time in the city. Now, let’s move on to how to get from the airport to the city to start your Dubai adventure!

Getting from the airport to the city

Once you arrive at Dubai International Airport, there are several convenient transportation options to get you from the airport to the city center. Here are a few popular choices:

• Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminals and are a convenient way to get to your hotel or desired destination in Dubai. The fares are metered, and the taxis are operated by the Dubai Taxi Corporation. It’s always a good idea to have the address of your accommodation or destination written down in English or Arabic to show the driver.
• Metro: Dubai has a well-connected metro system that runs from the airport to various parts of the city. The Red Line of the Dubai Metro serves Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 of the airport. The metro is a cost-effective and efficient way to travel, especially during peak hours when traffic can be heavy. Make sure to check the operating hours and plan your journey accordingly.
• Public buses: The public bus network in Dubai is extensive and offers affordable transportation options. There are several bus routes that connect the airport to different parts of the city. Look for the bus stops outside the terminals and check the schedules for the relevant bus route to reach your destination.
• Private transfers: If you prefer a more luxurious and hassle-free option, private transfers can be arranged in advance. Many hotels and travel agencies offer airport pick-up services, allowing you to relax and enjoy a comfortable ride directly to your accommodation.

It’s worth noting that Dubai International Airport is one of the busiest airports in the world, so it’s important to factor in the potential for traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Plan your transportation accordingly and allow enough time to reach your desired destination.

Now that you know how to get from the airport to the city, let’s dive into the exciting part of exploring Dubai’s iconic landmarks!

Exploring Dubai’s iconic landmarks

Dubai is renowned for its stunning architecture and iconic landmarks that showcase the city’s grandeur and ambition. While 12 hours may not be enough to visit all of them, you can still catch a glimpse of some of Dubai’s most famous landmarks. Here are a few must-see attractions:

• Burj Khalifa: The Burj Khalifa stands as the tallest building in the world, dominating Dubai’s skyline. Take a trip to the observation deck on the 124th floor for a breathtaking panoramic view of the city. Pre-booking tickets online will save you time and ensure availability.
• Dubai Mall: Adjacent to the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the world. Explore its extensive retail outlets, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the aquarium, or watch the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show, the world’s largest choreographed fountain system.
• Palm Jumeirah: This man-made island shaped like a palm tree is an engineering marvel. Walk along the promenade, relax at the luxurious resorts, or visit Atlantis, The Palm for a unique underwater adventure at the Lost Chambers Aquarium.
• Dubai Marina: Marvel at the futuristic skyscrapers and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of Dubai Marina. Take a relaxing walk along the marina promenade or opt for a boat tour to admire the stunning skyline from the water.
• The Dubai Frame: This architectural landmark offers a unique perspective of Dubai’s past and present. The oversized golden frame provides spectacular views of both the historic district and the modern skyline.

Remember to check the operating hours of each attraction and plan your visit accordingly. While it may not be possible to visit all these landmarks in one stopover, choose a couple that interest you the most and make sure to allocate enough time to fully enjoy them.

Now that you’ve explored some of Dubai’s iconic landmarks, let’s dive into the next section to discover the charm of traditional souks and local markets!

Visiting the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa

When it comes to experiencing grandeur and luxury, a visit to the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa is a must during your Dubai stopover. Here’s what you can expect:

The Dubai Mall is not just a shopping center; it’s a world of its own. With over 1,300 stores and countless entertainment options, it’s easy to get lost in this vast shopping paradise. From high-end fashion brands to local boutiques and international retailers, the Dubai Mall has something for everyone. Take your time to explore the different sections, from the Fashion Avenue to the Souk, and indulge in a little retail therapy.

One of the highlights of the Dubai Mall is its remarkable aquarium, where you can witness an incredible underwater world. Marvel at the diverse marine life as you walk through the underwater tunnel or take a boat ride to get an up-close view of the fascinating creatures. You can also visit the VR Park or watch a movie at the state-of-the-art cinema.

Adjacent to the Dubai Mall is the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Take the high-speed elevator to the observation deck on the 124th floor and be captivated by the breathtaking views of Dubai’s skyline. On a clear day, you can see the vastness of the city, the sparkling coastline, and the desert beyond. Don’t forget to capture this moment with stunning photographs.

If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, head to one of the many restaurants located in the Burj Khalifa. Enjoy a meal with panoramic views of the city, or simply relax and sip a coffee while taking in the awe-inspiring surroundings.

To make the most of your visit to the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, consider pre-booking tickets online. This will save you time and ensure you have access to your desired activities. Keep in mind that both the Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa can get busy, so try to visit during non-peak hours to avoid crowds.

After immersing yourself in the grandeur of the Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa, it’s time to discover the charm of traditional souks and local markets in Dubai.

Discovering traditional souks and local markets

For a taste of authentic Dubai and a unique shopping experience, exploring the traditional souks and local markets is a must during your stopover. Here’s what you can find:

Start your journey at the famous Dubai Gold Souk, located in the Deira district. This bustling market is home to hundreds of shops selling gold, silver, and precious gemstones. Wander through the labyrinthine alleys and admire the exquisite craftsmanship on display. Whether you’re looking to make a purchase or simply soak in the vibrant atmosphere, the Gold Souk is a feast for the senses.

Adjacent to the Gold Souk is the Spice Souk, a fragrant haven filled with stalls selling a variety of herbs, spices, and traditional perfumes. Let the aroma of cardamom, saffron, and other exotic spices guide you as you wander through the narrow streets. Don’t miss the opportunity to engage in friendly haggling with the shopkeepers and sample some of the local delicacies.

Another market worth visiting is the Textile Souk, located in the historic neighborhood of Bur Dubai. Here, you’ll find a wide array of fabrics, traditional Emirati clothing, and colorful textiles. Browse through the shops and marvel at the intricate embroidery and intricate designs. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even have a custom-made garment created to your specifications.

If you’re looking to experience a more modern take on traditional markets, visit the vibrant and atmospheric Dubai Spice Market. Here you’ll find a fusion of old and new, with stalls offering everything from spices and dried fruits to traditional crafts and souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to pick up unique gifts for loved ones back home.

As you explore these traditional souks and local markets, don’t forget to engage with the local vendors and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of Dubai. Be prepared to bargain for the best prices and have fun in the lively and bustling atmosphere.

After discovering the flavors and colors of traditional markets, it’s time to venture into the great outdoors and indulge in outdoor activities in Dubai.

Enjoying outdoor activities in Dubai

Dubai is not just a city of skyscrapers and bustling markets; it also offers a range of outdoor activities that allow you to embrace the beautiful weather and natural landscapes. Here are a few outdoor activities to consider during your Dubai stopover:

1. Desert Safari: Embark on a thrilling desert safari adventure and explore the golden sand dunes of Dubai’s vast desert. Experience the adrenaline rush of dune bashing in a 4×4 vehicle, try your hand at sandboarding, or simply soak in the serene beauty of the desert landscape. Complete your desert experience with a camel ride and indulge in a traditional Arabian BBQ dinner under the starry sky.

2. Dubai Parks and Resorts: If you’re traveling with family or seeking some excitement, visit Dubai Parks and Resorts. This entertainment complex is home to several theme parks, including Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, Legoland Dubai, and Legoland Water Park. Enjoy thrilling rides, live shows, and interactive experiences that cater to all ages.

3. Dubai Marina Walk: Take a leisurely stroll along the Dubai Marina Walk, a picturesque waterfront promenade lined with restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops. Enjoy the stunning views of the marina and the gleaming yachts, or opt for a boat tour to explore the coastline and enjoy the cool breeze.

4. Kite Beach: If you’re craving some sun, sand, and sea, head to Kite Beach. Known for its vibrant kite surfing scene, this beach offers more than just water sports. Relax on the pristine white sand, go for a swim in the crystal-clear waters, or try your hand at beach volleyball. You’ll also find a range of food trucks and cafes to satisfy your hunger.

5. Dubai Miracle Garden: Immerse yourself in a colorful paradise at the Dubai Miracle Garden, the world’s largest natural flower garden. Marvel at the stunning displays of millions of flowers arranged in intricate designs and shapes. This seasonal attraction is open from November to May and offers a unique outdoor experience that is sure to leave you in awe.

These are just a few examples of the many outdoor activities Dubai has to offer. Depending on your interests and the time available, you can choose to explore nature reserves, go on a boat tour, or even enjoy water sports such as jet skiing or paddleboarding.

Now that you’ve enjoyed the great outdoors, it’s time to indulge in the culinary delights that Dubai has to offer. Let’s move on to the next section!

Indulging in culinary experiences

Dubai is a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, offering a diverse range of culinary experiences to satisfy every palate. During your stopover, be sure to indulge in the city’s vibrant food scene. Here are some must-try culinary experiences in Dubai:

• Local Emirati Cuisine: Sample the traditional flavors of Emirati cuisine, which reflects the rich heritage of the region. Try dishes like Machbous (spiced rice with meat or seafood), Harees (slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge), and Luqaimat (sweet dumplings). Many authentic Emirati restaurants can be found in the older neighborhoods of Dubai, offering a glimpse into the local culture through their food.
• Middle Eastern Delicacies: Dubai is the perfect place to savor Middle Eastern cuisine at its finest. Indulge in delectable mezze, such as hummus, falafel, and tabbouleh. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy juicy kebabs and shawarma wraps filled with tender meat. Explore the vibrant neighborhoods like Al Rigga or Al Satwa for local eateries serving authentic Middle Eastern flavors.
• International Fine Dining: Dubai is home to a plethora of internationally acclaimed restaurants run by renowned chefs from all over the world. Whether you have a craving for Italian, French, Japanese, or Indian cuisine, you’ll find a wide range of fine dining options offering world-class culinary experiences.
• Street Food: For a more casual and affordable dining experience, head to the local street food stalls and food markets scattered throughout the city. Enjoy mouthwatering treats like Manousheh (Lebanese flatbread), Shawarma, or Karak chai (strong and sweet tea). Al Dhiyafah Street is a popular spot for street food, infusing the area with tantalizing aromas and colorful food stalls.
• Brunch Culture: Dubai is famous for its lavish brunches, where you can feast on an extravagant spread of international cuisines and enjoy live entertainment. Many hotels and restaurants offer brunch packages on weekends, making it the perfect opportunity to indulge in a leisurely and indulgent dining experience.

With a mix of traditional, international, and street food options, Dubai’s culinary scene has something for everyone. Be sure to explore and try different flavors during your stopover to get a taste of the city’s gastronomic delights.

After satisfying your taste buds, it’s time to embark on an exhilarating desert safari adventure in the golden dunes of Dubai. Let’s move on to the next section!

Taking a desert safari adventure

No visit to Dubai is complete without experiencing the thrill of a desert safari. Escape the city’s bustling streets and embark on an unforgettable adventure in the golden dunes just outside Dubai. Here’s what you can expect on a desert safari:

Start your desert safari by hopping into a 4×4 vehicle with a skilled driver who will navigate the sandy terrain with expertise. Hold on tight as you experience the exhilarating dune bashing, a thrilling ride over the undulating sand dunes that will leave you with an adrenaline rush.

As the sun sets, you’ll be taken to a traditional Bedouin-style camp where you’ll have the opportunity to immerse yourself in Emirati culture. Enjoy an authentic Arabian welcome with dates and Arabic coffee, and if you’re feeling adventurous, try a traditional shisha pipe.

Indulge in a sumptuous buffet dinner that showcases a variety of grilled meats, aromatic rice dishes, salads, and delectable desserts. Experience the magical atmosphere as you dine under the starlit sky, serenaded by live music and captivating belly dancing performances.

In addition to dune bashing and a delicious feast, desert safaris offer a range of activities to keep you entertained. Take a camel ride through the serene desert landscape, try your hand at sandboarding as you glide down the sandy slopes, or get a henna tattoo to adorn your hands with intricate designs.

For a deeper connection to the desert, learn about falconry, a traditional sport that showcases the hunting skills of these majestic birds. Watch in awe as the falcons swoop down to catch their prey, a truly mesmerizing sight.

While desert safaris are typically conducted in the evening, you can also opt for morning or overnight safaris, each offering a unique experience. Morning safaris allow you to witness the desert’s beauty in the early morning light, while overnight safaris give you the opportunity to sleep under the stars in comfortable tents.

Remember to bring a hat, sunglasses, and sunscreen to protect yourself from the desert sun and sand. Comfortable clothing and closed shoes are also recommended for ease of movement and to protect your feet from the sand.

So, immerse yourself in the beauty of the desert, relish the cultural experiences, and create unforgettable memories on your desert safari adventure in Dubai.

After the thrill of the desert, it’s time to relax and unwind at Dubai’s beautiful beaches. Let’s move on to the next section!

Relaxing at Dubai’s beautiful beaches

After the excitement of city exploration and desert adventures, it’s time to unwind and soak up the sun at Dubai’s beautiful beaches. With its pristine sands and crystal-clear waters, Dubai offers a range of coastal havens to relax and rejuvenate. Here are some of the top beaches to visit:

1. Jumeirah Beach: Located along the Jumeirah coastline, this popular beach offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and the iconic Burj Al Arab. Relax on the soft white sand, take a dip in the turquoise waters, or enjoy water sports like jet skiing or paddleboarding. The beach also has a range of amenities, including cafes, restaurants, and beach clubs.

2. Kite Beach: Known for its strong winds, Kite Beach is a haven for water sports enthusiasts, particularly kite surfers. Watch the colorful kites soaring through the sky as you bask in the sun or take a refreshing swim. The beach also offers facilities for beach volleyball, skateboarding, and other outdoor activities. Grab a meal or snack from one of the food trucks lining the promenade.

3. La Mer Beach: La Mer is a trendy beachfront development located in Jumeirah. This vibrant destination features a pristine beach, stylish shops, lively restaurants, and entertainment options. Take a leisurely stroll along the boardwalk, indulge in delicious seaside dining, or simply lounge on the sunbeds and soak up the beach vibes.

4. Black Palace Beach: For a more secluded and tranquil beach experience, head to Black Palace Beach. Tucked away behind an upscale neighborhood, this hidden gem offers stunning views of the Dubai Marina skyline and a serene environment away from the crowds. Pack a picnic, bring your sunscreen, and enjoy a peaceful day at this picturesque beach.

Remember to follow the beach rules and regulations, such as using authorized swimming areas, and be mindful of local customs regarding dress code and public displays of affection. It’s also a good idea to stay hydrated and carry sun protection to keep yourself safe from the Dubai sun.

Whether you’re looking to relax, engage in water sports, or simply enjoy the beachside ambiance, Dubai’s beautiful beaches offer the perfect respite during your stopover.

After unwinding at the beach, it’s time to delve into Dubai’s rich cultural and historical sites. Let’s move on to the next section and explore the cultural treasures of the city!

Exploring Dubai’s cultural and historical sites

While Dubai may be known for its modern architecture and luxurious attractions, the city also boasts a rich cultural and historical heritage waiting to be discovered. Take some time during your stopover to explore Dubai’s cultural and historical sites. Here are a few highlights:

1. Dubai Museum: Located in the Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest existing building in Dubai, the Dubai Museum offers a fascinating journey into the city’s past. Explore the exhibits that showcase traditional Emirati life, archaeological artifacts, and displays depicting the development of Dubai over time. The museum provides insights into the city’s Bedouin heritage and its transformation into a global metropolis.

2. Al Bastakiya: Wander through the narrow lanes of Al Bastakiya, Dubai’s historic district, and experience the charm of traditional Arabian architecture. Admire the beautifully restored wind towers that served as natural air conditioning in the past and explore the art galleries, boutiques, and cafes that now inhabit these traditional homes.

3. Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding: Immerse yourself in Emirati culture and traditions with a visit to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Participate in their cultural tours, where you can learn about Emirati customs, dress, religion, and enjoy a traditional Emirati meal. It’s an excellent opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations and gain a deeper understanding of the local culture.

4. Dubai Heritage Village: Visit the Dubai Heritage Village to experience a slice of traditional Emirati life. This living museum showcases Bedouin tents, traditional houses, and handicraft workshops, giving visitors a glimpse into Dubai’s past. Enjoy live performances, such as dance and music, and explore the traditional souk where you can find unique handicrafts and local products.

5. Historical Neighborhoods: Take a stroll through the historical neighborhoods of Dubai, such as Al Shindagha and Al Fahidi, where you’ll find beautifully preserved buildings and traditional architecture. Explore the narrow alleyways, visit art galleries and museums, and learn about Dubai’s history from local heritage experts.

Exploring these cultural and historical sites will provide a deeper appreciation and understanding of Dubai’s roots, traditions, and the journey that has shaped it into the city it is today.

After immersing yourself in Dubai’s cultural heritage, it’s time to gather some final tips to make the most of your stopover. Let’s move on to the last section of our article!

Final tips for making the most of your Dubai stopover

To ensure that your Dubai stopover is memorable and enjoyable, here are some final tips to make the most of your time in this vibrant city:

• Plan your time wisely: With only 12 hours to explore Dubai, it’s crucial to prioritize your must-visit attractions and plan your itinerary accordingly. Consider the distance between locations, traffic conditions, and the operating hours of the places you want to visit to make the most of your time.
• Stay hydrated: Dubai’s climate can be hot and dry, so it’s important to stay hydrated. Carry a water bottle with you and drink plenty of fluids throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
• Dress appropriately: Dubai is a city with a conservative dress code, particularly in religious and cultural areas. Make sure to respect local customs and dress modestly when visiting mosques, temples, or heritage sites. It’s also a good idea to carry a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders if needed.
• Be mindful of cultural norms: Dubai is a cosmopolitan city, but it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Familiarize yourself with basic etiquette, such as refraining from public displays of affection, respect for Ramadan if visiting during that time, and asking for permission before taking photos of people.
• Try local delicacies: Dubai offers a rich tapestry of flavors, so be sure to indulge in local cuisine. Whether it’s street food, traditional dishes, or international fusion, exploring the culinary scene is a must-do during your stopover.
• Capture the moments: Dubai is a city of stunning architecture and breathtaking landscapes, so don’t forget to bring your camera or smartphone to capture the memorable moments during your stopover.
• Stay connected: To navigate the city and stay connected with loved ones, consider purchasing a local SIM card or activating an international data plan. Having a reliable internet connection will also help you access maps and useful information on the go.
• Consider guided tours: If you’re short on time or prefer a hassle-free experience, consider booking guided tours. These can provide valuable insights, save time on logistics, and ensure you don’t miss out on must-see attractions.
• Respect the environment: As a responsible traveler, it’s important to respect the environment and follow sustainable practices. Dispose of waste properly, avoid single-use plastics, and be mindful of the impact you have on the natural surroundings.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to make the most of your Dubai stopover and create unforgettable memories in this vibrant city. Embrace the culture, immerse yourself in the experiences, and enjoy the charm and beauty that Dubai has to offer.

Now that you’re equipped with these final tips, it’s time to embark on your Dubai adventure and make the most of your layover. Safe travels!

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A stopover in Dubai offers a unique opportunity to experience the glamour, culture, and adventure that the city has to offer. Despite having just 12 hours, you can immerse yourself in Dubai’s iconic landmarks, indulge in culinary delights, explore traditional souks and local markets, enjoy outdoor activities, and uncover the city’s cultural and historical treasures.

From visiting the towering Burj Khalifa and exploring the vast Dubai Mall to venturing into the enchanting alleyways of the Gold and Spice Souks, Dubai’s vibrancy and diversity will leave a lasting impression. Engage in thrilling desert safari adventures in the golden dunes, relax and unwind at the beautiful beaches, and delve into the rich heritage at the Dubai Museum and historical neighborhoods.

To make the most of your Dubai stopover, it’s important to plan your time wisely, respect local customs, and try authentic Emirati cuisine. Capture the mesmerizing moments and connect with the vibrant energy of the city. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a culture enthusiast, or a food lover, Dubai has something to offer everyone.

So, if you find yourself with a layover in Dubai, embrace the adventure. Allow yourself to be captivated by the city’s grandeur, immerse yourself in its traditions, and discover the hidden gems that make Dubai truly unique.

Remember, a stopover in Dubai is just the beginning of an extraordinary journey. Depart with unforgettable memories, and who knows, you may find yourself planning a return trip to fully explore all that this spectacular city has to offer.

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