United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven states, consisting of Abu Dhabi (the capital), Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain, that has grown from a quiet backwater to one of the Middle East’s most important economic centers. Though traditionally conservative, the UAE is one of the most liberal countries in the Gulf.
DUBAI TRAVEL TIPS
Located in the Arabian Desert on the coast of the Persian Gulf, the state of Dubai is renowned, worldwide, as a booming centre of international trade and innovation. Dubai has fast become one of the world’s most popular tourist destinations.
When is the best time to visit?
Dubai experiences a desert climate with largely year-round sunshine and hot temperatures, and very little rain. To avoid the worst of the heat, the best months to visit are between November and March. While July and August are the hottest months, the cheapest month to fly to Dubai is January.
Do you need a visa to visit Dubai?
You can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 14 days or you can apply for a Dubai e-Visa online. It’s easier & faster when you apply online.
Here are some Dos and Don’ts while in Dubai:
Do remember that Dubai is an Islamic country, so be respectful of its laws and customs.
Do be respectful of Emirati women: Only shake hands with a woman if she offers her hand first, and do not take photographs without her permission.
Do dress sensibly and respectfully! Women are advised to wear loosefitting clothes and skirts that drop to the knee. Men should wear jeans or trousers, and tops with long sleeves.
Don’t display affection in public. Holding hands is fine, kissing in public, however can be offensive to Emiratis.
Don’t eat or drink in public during Ramadan. The holy month of Ramadan bans eating or drinking in public before sundown.
Don’t enter the Women-Only section if you’re a man. You can be fined 100 AED ($30 USD). Every train on Dubai’s metro system has one designated carriage which is only for women and children.
How to get around?
1. by TAXI
The best and easiest way to get around Dubai, is by taxi. Taxis are operated by the government, and all have meters. Not all taxis accept credit cards, so make sure you carry cash with you. Also, it’s always a good idea to carry smaller bills with you when using a taxi, not all drivers carry enough change to break larger bills.
2. by TRAM
The Dubai Tram runs 14.5 kilometers of Al Sufouh Road, and connects to two major metro stations- The Jumeirah Lake Towers and the Dubai Marina metro station. It has a flat rate of only AED 6 per person, which makes it the cheapest rides in the city.
3. by METRO
The Dubai Metro has only two lines (the Red Line and the Green Line). With over 45 stops, the Metro serves the most popular tourist areas within Dubai. The main metro line runs the length of Sheikh Zayed Road, while the more newly line services the old town area of the city.
Where to stay?
From luxury to budget accommodations, there are many hotels to choose from. The best place for you to stay in Dubai is near Burj Khalifa (in Downtown), Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Marina and The Palm Jumeirah.
Choosing the area, you want to stay in will depend on what you actually want to visit in Dubai, as well as on your budget, as prices vary enormously by area.
The hotel that I chose to stay was Rose Rayhaan by Rotana in Downtown Dubai. It’s near the Dubai Mall and just 5 minutes away from the Financial Centre metro station. With its 72-storey, this hotel is one among the tallest hotels in the world. Make sure to ask for an upgrade – for a small fee they have upgraded my room on the 69th floor which had an amazing view of the majestic Burj Khalifa and the surrounding downtown area.
4 DAYS IN DUBAI / TOP THINGS TO DO
Dubai is the largest and most populous city in the UAE, and it’s one of the leading luxury holiday destinations in the world! Dubai has something for everyone: from kids to parents, friends to couples, business travellers and more! Here are the most things to do in Dubai, if you only have 4 days to spare:
Day 1 – Top the Burj Khalifa / Visit Dubai Mall / Explore Dubai Marina;
Day 2 – Sightseeing Tour / Visit Atlantis, the Palm / Cruise the Creek;
Day 3 – Day trip to Sharjah from Dubai / Visit the Mall of Emirates;
Day 4 – Dessert Safari Dune Bashing with Dinner and Show;
DUBAI ITINERARY – Day 1:
Top the Burj Khalifa / Visit Dubai Mall / Explore Dubai Marina;
The Burj Khalifa
Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and is located at the heart of Dubai’s Downtown area (also known as Downtown Burj Dubai), which is adjacent to Sheikh Zayed Road. Not only is Burj Khalifa the world’s tallest building, it has also broken two other impressive records: tallest structure, previously held by the KVLY-TV mast in Blanchard, North Dakota, and tallest free-standing structure, previously held by Toronto’s CN Tower.
Features: The Dubai Fountain, with its over 6,000 lights, shooting water 150 meters (500 ft) into the air, it is the world’s second largest choreographed fountain; The Observation Deck, called “At the Top” it was the highest outdoor observation deck in the world when it opened; and the Burj Khalifa Park, which was designed based on the flower of the Hymenocallis, a desert plant.
How to get to the top of Burj Khalifa?
The Burj Khalifa has two observation decks. The lower deck is called “At the Top” and stands at a height of 452 meters (1,482 ft). The new deck is called “At the Top Sky.” At 555 meters (1,820 ft), it is currently the highest observation deck in the world. Both decks provide a complete 360° birds eye view of Dubai.
No trip to Dubai is complete without a view from these two magnificent observation decks. It’s one of the must see attractions in Dubai.
To get to the top of the Burj Khalifa, you need to purchase a ticket. The ticket office to the Burj Khalifa is within Dubai Mall, near the Subway sandwich restaurant on the Lower Ground floor. You can also purchase tickets in advance online.
- At The Top Burj Khalifa tickets prices start at AED 140 (38 USD)
- At The Top Burj Khalifa Sky tickets prices start at AED 370 (100 USD)
To avoid the crowds, visit the Burj Khalifa on a weekday, and preferably as early as you can. Take the world’s fastest elevator, called “the travelator” – a 65 meter (213 ft) long elevator ride traveling at 10 meters per second – all the way to the top of this iconic skyscraper. Also, there are plenty of restaurants inside and around the Burj Khalifa.
Watch the Dubai Fountain Show
Watch the Dubai Fountain show from the world’s highest building with synchronized music that can be heard in the Burj Khalifa observation decks. Marvel at the world’s largest dancing fountain, set on the Burj Khalifa Lake, from your panoramic viewpoint.
You can also enjoy the Fountain show from the ground level for free every day from 6:00 pm until 11:00 pm.
The Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall, also known as the home of the Dubai Shopping Festival, is the world largest mall. Since opening in 2008, Dubai Mall has become one of the most visited destinations in the world, atracting over 80 million visitors each year.
It has over 1,200 retail stores and hundreds of restaurants and beverage outlets, several indoor waterfalls, and a massive cinema complex. It’s not just fashion, shopping and food but also has plenty of entertainment and leisure options as well.
As the ultimate family destination, the Dubai Mall has something for everyone, including an Olympic-sized ice rink, indoor waterfalls, a huge Aquarium, and an Underwater Zoo.
Located in the center of Downtown, the Dubai Mall is surrounded by the city’s most impressive sights. Right next door is the famous Burj Khalifa, the worlds’ tallest buiding. Between the two landmarks, lies the Dubai Fountain, which is famous for the world’s largest choreographed light and water show.
Visit Dubai Marina
Explore Dubai Marina, one of the the city’s liveliest neighborhoods! Dubai Marina is one of the world’s largest, most meticulously planned waterfront developments. You can experience the unique beauty of Dubai from the Dubai Marina Walk. It’s a must see place while in Dubai.
How to get here from Downtown Dubai by Metro?
~ Take the Metro Red Line towards UAE Exchange Metro Station;
~ Get off at the Damac Properties Metro Station;
~ Walk towards Dubai Marina 1 Station and take the Tram towards Jumeriah Lakes Towers;
~ Get off at the Jumeriah Beach Residence 1 Tram Station;
~ Dubai Marina is just 4 minutes walk away;
What to do around Dubai Marina?
You can take a walk on the waterfront, enjoy the breathtaking view these skyscrapers have to offer. Take lots of photos! You’ll find lots of restaurants serving a variety of foods in front of the Marina Canal, where boat, yacht and dhow rides are available.
You you can take a cruise on a traditional dhow on the Marina Canal, exploring the area’s incredible architecture and beautiful scenery.
Just few blocks away, head to the Jumeriah Beach, a white sand beach on the Arabian Gulf. You can find plenty more restaurants and cafes along the shore. If you want to shop, there’s the Dubai Marina Mall, an ideal place to shop and browse around.
If you’re brave enough, you can try the XLine, the world’s longest urban zipline, reaching speeds up to 50 mph, or you can try the Skydive Dubai, which provides a great view of the surrounding Dubai Marina and the Palm Jumeriah.
The world’s tallest Ferris Wheel, the “Ain Dubai” is set to open in October, 2020. You’ll be able to have a bird’s eye-view of Dubai from the height of 250 meters (820 ft).
DUBAI ITINERARY – Day 2:
Take a Sightseeing Tour around the city / Visit Atlantis, the Palm / Experience a Dhow Cruise;
Hop-on / Hop-off around Dubai:
One of the best ways to see and explore the city of Dubai is with a Sightseeing Bus Tour. Enjoy epic views of the iconic Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab and Atlantis Hotel landmarks from the vantage point of an open top double decker bus. There are two routes: the Red Route, which is called the City Tour and the Blue Route, which is the Marina Route.
The Red Route will take you to less known places in the city. Some of the stops include the Burjuman, Al Fahidi Fort, Arabian Old Souk, Heritage Village, Spice and Gold Souk, Riviera, Deira City Center and Wafi Courtyard.
The Blue Route stops at Dubai must known visitor sights. Stops includes the Dubai Mall, Mall of Emirates, JBR Walk, Bayside, Media City, Atlantis the Palm, and Souq Madinat among others.
The Palm Jumeriah
Palm Jumeriah is an artificial archipelago, created using land reclamation which extend into the Persian Gulf. They were constructed from sand dredged from the sea floor.
This man-made archipelago was built and designed in the shape of a palm tree, lined with lots of luxury villas and five-star hotels. From the air, the archipelago resembles a stylized palm tree within a circle, framed by a reef. It’s truly a spectacular view and it can be even viewed from space.
As the world’s largest artificial islands, The Palm is composed of Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali and Palm Deira. The best way to get around the Palms is by Monorail, which runs from the base of the island all the way to the Atlantis.
The Boardwalk is an 11 km (7 miles) walkway stretching across the outer crescent of The Palm. Its fantastic to take a walk on the Broadway, you have excellent view of the Atlantis.
Explore Atlantis, the Palm
is the place where water meets wonder...
Atlantis, The Palm Dubai is a luxury hotel resort located in Palm Jumeriah is one of the iconic locations in Dubai. It was the first resort to be built on the island and is themed on the myth of Atlantis, but includes distinct Arabian elements.
This beautiful building holds over 1,500 rooms…
Atlantis, The Palm is a spectacular place to stay, even if it’s for one night. Tourists are pouring in from across the world. Guests have access to two private beaches, private pools, and unlimited access to the Aquaventure Waterpark and the Lost Chambers Aquarium.
There are also two beautiful pools, which are exclusively reserved for guests only. The Royal Pool is a stunning lagoon style pool offering a relaxing place to swim for all ages, while the Zero Entry Pool, with its shallow waters is mostly for families and kids.
Non-guests can also choose among a range of activities the Atlantis has to offer, including full aquarium entry, scuba diving, and snorkeling.
Marvel at the Ambassador Lagoon
The Ambassador Lagoon, one of the world’s largest aquariums, has over 250 species of marine life including sharks, eels, rays, and exotic fish. The Lost Chambers Aquarium is home to over 65,000 marine animals.
The underwater tunnels and a series of mazes are themed around the ruins of the mystical city of Atlantis.
The Dolphin Bay lagoon has seven interconnected pools for dolphins and will offer dolphin interactions, It is the largest dolphin habitat in the world.
If you love dolphins but swimming isn’t your thing, you can still meet and greet these playful creatures and have a one-of-a-kind experience. At Dolphin Bay you can also interact with friendly sea lions.
Discover Aquaventure Waterpark
Located on the ground of Atlantis The Palm, Aquaventure is the largest waterpark in Dubai and the best waterpark in the Middle East.
Aquaventure Waterpark promises a world of excitement with over 30 slides and attractions, cruise down on Dubai’s longest Lazy River, and enjoy the nearby private beach. It’s a thrilling place to be.
Tip: You are entitled to a free day pass ticket to the Aquaventure Waterpark on your birthday. So if you are planning a visit on your birthday then Atlantis welcomes you for free to make you feel special on your birthday.
Experience a Dubai Creek Dhow Cruise
No Dubai itinerary is complete without exploring the area around Dubai Creek, where you’ll find a different side of Dubai, historic buildings, with spice and gold souks, and little abra boats or larger dhow ships crossing the river. The various Dhow cruise experiences at Dubai Creek offer a panoramic view of all of these iconic sites.
One of the best ways to learn about the history and modern developments in Dubai is to get on a Dhow Cruise.
As United Emirate’s first major ports, the Creek is the historic heart of Dubai, which once divided the city into two areas: Deira to the north and Bur Dubai to the south.
Dubai Creek was the hub for trading gold, spices and fresh fish from the Arabian waters. Fishing was the main industry based along the waterway, due to its shallow waters. Wooden dhows used for fishing were often built right on the shores of the creek.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
Escape the skyscrapers and check out the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood to see how traditional life in the mid-19th century used to be. Located along the Dubai Creek, this district is a key heritage site that has preserved much of the original infrastructure. The best way to explore this historic site is with a private walking tour.
The sights, sounds and smells along these historic neighborhoods will take you back to the charm of old Dubai.
Visit Dubai Museum
Formerly know as “The Al Fahidi Fort”, the Dubai Museum was opened in 1971, displaying the history of Dubai and its original heritage. Al Fahidi Fort is the city’s oldest building and its construction dates back to 1787.
The Dubai Museum is home to the most elegant traditional culture which has been preserved for years. It’s a must-visit site when you are in Dubai!
DUBAI ITINERARY – Day 3:
Take a day trip to Sharjah / Visit the Mall of Emirates;
Sharjah
Sharjah, also called the “Pearl of the Gulf,” is the third largest city of the United Arab Emirates – is home to 1.5 million people. While Dubai is know for their immense entertainment, dining and nightlife, Sharjah is more laid back, diverse and cultural. Sharjawis people appreciate a more modest lifestyle.
Take a Sharjah bus tour from Dubai and explore beautifully restored Old Town of heritage areas, museums and souks. On this tour, you’ll be able to visit the Sharjah Fort and the grand Faisal Mosque.
You can gain insight into Arab culture and history at the Sharjah Heritage Museum, and finally you can find local treasures and buy souvenirs at Souq Al Arsah or Souq Al Markazi markets.
The tour is about 5 hours long. On the way back to Dubai, you can marvel at Sharjah city’s spectacular skyline, as the bus takes you through downtown, and around the beautiful Al Majaz waterfront.
Here are the must things to do in Sharjah:
~ Roam around the Blue Souk, a shopping mall situated in the city center with beautiful architectural detail;
~ Visit the Sharjah Archaeology Museum with artifacts that can be dated back as far as the Stone Age;
~ Visit the magnificent Ottoman style Al Noor Mosque, overlooking the Khalid Lagoon;
~ Admire the Heart of Sharjah and discover the historical culture of the city;
~ Take a ride on the Eye of the Emirates Wheel, the most popular attraction in Sharjah;
~ Check out the Sharjah Aquarium, which has a wide range of marine life;
~ Walk or jog along the Al Majaz Waterfront and fancy the spectacular scenery, relax and eat at numerous restaurants along the waterfront and enjoy the various family-friendly attractions.
The Al Majaz Waterfront it is also home to the Sharjah Fountain, where an impressive sound-and-light show attracts huge crowds during the evening.
Mall of the Emirates
Mall of the Emirates is one of the most popular shopping malls in Dubai, located in the Al Barsha area. When the mall opened in 2005, it was the largest shopping mall in the United Arab Emirates – until 2008, when it was overtaken by The Dubai Mall.
This isn’t just an ordinary mall, it’s a shopping resort!
Home to Ski Dubai indoor skifield, the VOX cinema complex, and more than 630 of the world’s best shops, a visit to the Mall of the Emirates is a must-see on any holiday to Dubai. Flagship luxury destination, Mall of the Emirates, welcomes more than 40 million visitors each year.
Ski Dubai offers a variety of activities and gives you a chance to ski, snowboard, toboggan, zip line, enjoy the views or just take part in a friendly snowball fight. Check out the Snow Park and experience a penguin encounter – all under one roof.
DUBAI ITINERARY – Day 4:
Enjoy a Dessert Safari with Dune Bashing, BBQ Dinner at a Bedouin Camp with Tanura Show & Belly Dancing;
Dessert Safari
Desert Safari is an absolutely can’t miss adventure experience in Dubai. It includes dune bashing, camel riding, an authentic Middle Eastern dinner in a Bedouin-style camp, henna hand painting, shisha smoking and belly dancing often completes the evening’s activities.
So buckle up for a bumpy ride across the desert, bash the sand dunes in a 4×4 vehicle. Evening time slot gives you a great opportunity to capture some breathtaking views of the dreamy desert with magical colors of the dusk, and catch a glimpse of the beautiful sunset over the desert dunes.
What is Dune Bashing?
Dune bashing means driving at increasing and decreasing speeds over sand dunes. As the surface of the sand keeps shifting, it takes a special skill and a special type of car to navigate the terrain.
The dune bashing part of the trip is a bumpy and thrilling ride that lasts about an hour. The vehicles travel in convoy and stick close together as they perform their stunts, You will enjoy the slipping and the sliding, the skidding and the spinning – And sand, lots and lots of sand all around!
This is an experience like no other & it’s a must do when visiting Dubai.
I believe it is the best way to end your vacation in this fabulous place!
Dubai is indulgent, glamorous, and progressive. It combines a modern metropolis with a timeless sensibility and Arabian flair. Without question, Dubai is a must see place, and it should be on everyone’s bucket-list.
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