Despite winter being the coldest months in Dubai, this is actually a good thing. Temperatures average 20˚C and there are approximately 11 hours of sunshine each day, making it a comfortable winter escape. But Dubai is unique in more ways than just its weather. This Emirate capital barely existed 50 years ago but has rapidly grown into a melting pot of cultures, religions, and traditions, and the citizens wear their exuberant wealth on their sleeves, inviting tourists to enjoy it with them.
It might seem strange to spend your first day at the largest leisure, entertainment, and shopping centre in the world, but the Downtown Dubai and Dubai Mall are the best way to get a sense of the city. The Mall has over 1,200 stores across four floors, including popular fashion brands like Burberry, Dolce & Gabbana, and Gucci, and a huge array of entertainment, including the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo which makes up the heart of the Mall. After a bit of shopping, stop for lunch in one of the 120-plus restaurants.
Next door to the Dubai Mall is the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world at 829.8 metres. Guests typically spend ~45 minutes viewing the city from high above and tickets are available for timeslots every 30 minutes. Reserve ahead of time and expect to pay more if you want to watch the sunset.
Afterwards, find a comfortable spot outside beside the Dubai Fountain for a free, choreographed fountain show. The impressive blend of music, light, and water makes is one of the largest of its kind in the world—are you noticing a pattern yet?
The city’s best tours are located at the Dubai Marina and The Palm Jumeirah, one of the three artificial archipelagos along Dubai’s shoreline. The Dubai Bus Tour is the most economical option, but the Dubai Palm Boat Tour or Speedboat Tour is the most exciting ways to see the city from the sea. For those with more money to spend, consider a helicopter tour.
At last, it is time to don the bathing suit and feel the hot sun by relaxing on one of the many beaches or partaking in exciting water sports, including flyboarding. Once you have found your beach spot, you will likely be there for the day. Most beach spots cater for visitors with food, drink, and toilet facilities.
In the evening, walk along the Marina to make the most of this beautiful location. There is a wide selection of restaurants and bars to grab a delicious meal, although we recommend booking a table at the Burj Al Arab. This sail-shaped hotel might be seven stars, but dinners are surprisingly affordable. Partygoers should head to Barasti Beach Bar.
After two days of entertainment and indulging modern Dubai, day three is the perfect time to experience the city’s more traditional side.
North along the coast from the Dubai Marina, in Jumeirah 1 neighbourhood, is the Jumeirah Mosque. This stunning building is the most photographed mosque in Dubai not only because it is beautiful, but because it hosts tours for non-Muslims.
Afterwards, take a 15-minute taxi ride to Bastakiya Quarter. This historic region is bursting with traditional mud-brick towers, galleries, restaurants, and souks (Arab bazaars and markets) for some bargain shopping. Even if you don’t fancy spending, the grand Gold Souk is not to be missed. The Dubai Museum is the best place to understand the region’s history and traditions, situated inside Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai’s oldest building.
After three busy days, some holidaymakers may want to take some time to slow down. The Talise Spa in Downtown Dubai is centrally located and full of relaxation services. Meanwhile, tourists who prefer to de-stress among nature may prefer to head to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary. These protected wetlands attract a large number of migratory birds and are home to approximately 500 flamingos.
One of the absolute must-dos of any Dubai itinerary is the Desert Safari.* Guests are driven out to the desert in the late afternoon and invited to drive buggies over the dunes. Later, visitors can ride camels and take pictures of the beautiful desert sunset. Afterwards, enjoy a buffet dinner under the stars while watching belly dancing, a fire show, and Tanura dancing by entertainers dressed in traditional costume.
For your final day, stay close to Dubai’s main centre, so you can do as much as possible before returning to the airport.
The best place to combine thrilling nowhere-does-it-like-Dubai entertainment with some last-minute shopping is at the Mall of the Emirates. With over 630 stores, you can buy anything from fashion items, art, and jewellery, to electronics, toys, and furniture. However, before you start filling your luggage allowance, why not squeeze in a few slopes at Ski Dubai, the middle east’s first indoor ski slope. Alternatively, you can have fun with the family at the Magic Planet indoor entertainment centre.
If you plan to stay for longer, there is plenty still on offer:
Theme Parks – there is a huge number of theme parks to choose between, including IMG Worlds of Adventure, Motiongate, LEGOLAND Dubai, Aquaventure, Ferrari World, and Dubai Miracle Garden. Allow a full day for each visit.
Ramee Dhow Cruise – take a night-time dinner cruise of Dubai’s historic creek to enjoy the best of Dubai’s contrasting historic and modern skyline.
Al Qudra Lakes – a beautiful oasis where you can camp, hike, watch sunsets, and see local wildlife, including desert foxes. Located about an hour’s drive south of Dubai.
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