Dubai is an energetic, one-of-a-kind city. Home to a list of superlatives that seems endless – from the World’s Tallest Building to the World’s Largest Palm-Shaped Manmade island to the World’s Biggest Shopping Mall to name a few. It’s remarkable to think that a mere 60 years ago it was a relatively unknown fishing settlement… it’s Herculean growth to vibrant, buzzing metropolis has to be seen to be believed.
Best time to visit: Sunny year-round, during the winter months temperatures hover around a very pleasant 24°C. It can get very hot in the summer, but this is also when hotels offer the best deals, so you can find yourself staying in 5* luxury for a much more affordable price. Plus, everywhere is air conditioned, so the heat is definitely manageable.
Here’s our suggested itinerary for 3 days in Dubai – a whistle-stop tour… staying half board at the Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf (Madinat Jumeirah).
Day 1
Morning: Take a Yellow Boat Tour. We’d recommend this for amazing views of the skyline alone. This super fast speed boat trip takes you to Atlantis the Palm, around the marina and the iconic Burj Al Arab – it’s fast, but not scary, and there are plenty of opportunities to stop and take some photos.
Lunch: Take some time to check out the Souks and Bazaar and have a bite to eat at one of the cafes in Madinat Jumeirah.
Afternoon: Spend the afternoon relaxing on Jumeirah Beach. If you’re feeling adventurous, try paddle-boarding or kayaking around Burj Al Arab.
Evening: Go to the top of the Burj Khalifa around 5pm – you’ll be able to admire the views in daylight, before watching the evening lights come on as the sun disappears. Afterwards, go and watch the Dubai Fountains. Watching water fountains may not sound like the best use of your time, but trust us, you’ll be hooked! The scale of the water jets is spectacular. The water dances in sync with the music – it’s really addictive to watch. Even better, it’s free. Have dinner next door at Dubai Mall.
Day 2
Morning: Explore the Bastakiya quarter. Take a break from the glitz and glamour and get a glimpse of what Dubai was like before the oil boom of the 1960s. Visit Dubai’s oldest structure, Al Fahidi Fort, home to the Dubai Museum. Ride an abra across Dubai creek. Browse the colourful souks and test your haggling skills!
Lunch: Head back to the hotel for light lunch and a quick dip in the pools.
Afternoon/evening: Go on a Desert Safari.
This consists of dune bashing (in 4x4s), camel riding, followed by a traditional meal around a campfire with traditional dancing and evening entertainment. You’ll be collected from the hotel around 3pm and dropped off again afterwards.
Day 3
Morning: Go to the Mall of the Emirates – not just for shopping, here you can go skiing (yes, on real snow!) or try out one of the 90+ restaurants.
Afternoon: Your choice – explore the rides at Wild Wadi Waterpark // or spend an indulgent afternoon at the award winning Talise Spa.
Evening: Take a stroll around Dubai Marina and admire the super-yachts before returning to the hotel for dinner.
Make this the year to visit Dubai
Dubai holidays are a fantastic choice for everyone. Whether you’re travelling with a young family or seeking a romantic break for two, this dazzling jewel in the UAE crown is a must-visit. Check out neighbouring Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah for the best all-inclusive Dubai holidays. Or treat yourself to a truly opulent city-centre hotel.
Explore our range of Dubai resorts and find your perfect holiday today!
