Dubai | United Arab Emirates
I originally had the idea of only using Dubai as a stopover on my way to other places in the world. It never crossed my mind to have Dubai as THE destination.
But when the opportunity came to spend several days in Dubai with some of our friends, I quickly realized how much there was to do and see. Narrowing down what to do in 5 days was no easy feat. There is honestly enough to do to keep someone busy every day for weeks. Lucky for you, I’ve done the homework, and these are my top recommendations if you aren’t lucky enough to be spending a month here!
Things to do in Dubai
The Souks - I’m sure if you bring up what to do while you’re in Dubai to any one who has been, shopping is going to be one of the first things they mention. While you won’t have any trouble finding the likes of Hermes or Chanel, or even Zara in one of the 70(yes- SEVENTY) malls, the souks is where you need to be sure to head to. These Arabian bazaars are set traditionally and gives you a good glimpse in to how this trade port functioned from the times of the Beni Yas tribe in the 5th century and on. There are Perfume Souk, Textile Souk, Spice Souk, and the Gold Souk. Haggling and negotiating is common practice in the souks. Cash is preferred but some of the bigger stalls take cards as well.
The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve - The desert conservation area about 45 minutes outside of Dubai city is not something to be missed. There are quite a few options when it comes to tours. My favorite, and highly recommended tour is a safari by Platinum Heritage. You can read my whole post on this experience here. Other ways to enjoy the conservation area include sandboarding, car rallying, traditional Bedouin BBQ dinners, Camel rides, ATV rides, and even camping.
Ski Dubai - Located in the Mall of the Emirates, the unexpected fun of being able to ski year-round is great to add a little variety to your itinerary. If skiing or snowboarding isn’t your thing, you can also enjoy zorb balls, sledding, ziplining, and even interact with Penguins. Packages start at 290AED($75.00 USD) and booking in advance is highly recommended. You can do that here.
Aquaventure Waterpark - There really is no better time to hit a water park than when in the middle of a desert under the heat of the sun. While Dubai has many choices when it comes to water parks, Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis the Palm Resort is by far the biggest and best one to visit. Aquaventure has over 105 water slides and rides, as well as surf simulators, wave pools, a private beach, an immersive aquarium, and the longest lazy river in the middle east- taking a whopping 45 minutes to float the whole thing. Day passes start at 299AED($80.00 USD) and need to be purchased in advance here.
The Frame - Yes, Dubai and the Burj Khalifa-tallest building in the world- are synonymous. And if you’re looking to fill time, sunrise or sunset At the Top are totally worth the splurge. BUT, if you’re only going to do one observation deck during your trip, go for The Frame instead. It’s a building situated between Old and New Dubai, with views of both. And it’s just a bonus that the Dubai Frame is only $15.00 USD versus $45.00 USD for the Burj.
Skydive Dubai - If catching a thrill is apart of your vacation plans, Dubai is up there among some of the best places to skydive with skyline and island views. If jumping out of a plane sounds horrific but the views sound great, opt for a scenic plane or helicopter ride.
More Things to See and Do
Jumeriah Mosque - One of the most gorgeous landmarks in Dubai, the Jumeriah Mosque is a great stop. It was built in the Fatimid style which originated from Syria and Egypt and opened in 1979. It opened to the public in the 1990’s and is a great way to experience the local muslim culture. Visiting hours are in the morning, daily from 10:00am and 2:00pm except Fridays. If you’d like a guided tour, the cost is 35AED ($9.50 USD) and lasts about 45 minutes and includes a light emirate treat.
Burj Al-Arab - Set on it’s own man-made island, the Burj Al-Arab is the world’s only seven star hotel and is over-the-top opulent. Some of the suites ring in at an eye-watering $15,000 USD a night. But if you don’t have that kind of cash laying around, you’re still in luck for a grand experience; Afternoon Tea. You have two different options when it comes to booking your afternoon tea at the Burj Al-Arab. The most popular option is SkyTea at the Skyview Bar. This is a seven course afternoon tea thats served on the top floor with stunning views and is only for 21 years old and over. This is also the most expensive option at 620 AED ($170.00 USD) per person, with the option of paying 100 AED ($30.00 USD) extra for a guaranteed window seat. Until recently, window seating was on a first-come, first-serve basis, so you might find old guides or conversations on TripAdvisor telling you to arrive early and wait by the doors to secure the best seat in the house. However, window seats now require advance booking and the 100 AED. Another option, that accepts children is The Ultimate Afternoon Tea at Sahn Eddar. This one is in the atrium on the first floor and is also a full seven course afternoon tea that is almost identical to the Skyview menu. With live classical music in the background and the more casual feel, it’s a great way to spend your afternoon while teaching children “proper” manners. Tea Time at Sahn Eddar is 560 AED ($155.00 USD) and advance reservations are required.
Theme Parks- Dubai has quite a few options when it comes to roller coasters and immersive experiences. One of them, IMG Worlds of Adventure, is the world’s largest indoor theme park. The park has several distinct areas, including Marvel Universe, Cartoon Network, IMG Boulevard, The Haunted Hotel, and Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure. Admission starts at 335AED ($90.00 USD) and can be booked here. In true Dubai fashion, the newest theme park, Motiongate Dubai, is one of the largest Hollywood themed parks in the world. It’s just the latest push from Dubai to become the entertainment capital of the world. And this “Hollywood of the Desert” makes a great case for the title. With 6 different zones, including Columbia Pictures, Smurf Village, Dreamworks, Lionsgate, Studio Central, and Hollywood Theater, there really is something for everyone. Day tickets start at 295AED ($80.00 USD) and can be booked here. Other theme parks in Dubai include Legoland, Bollywood Park, and Global Village.
Boat Cruises -Because of the fancy reputation of Dubai, a yacht might be the first thing you think of you’re wanting to spend sometime on the water. And while there are so many good options for this Check out Royal Blue Coast for any chartering needs!) Dhows and Abras are the traditional boats used in this area, and deliver a more authentic experience- so they get my vote. Dhows a coasting vessel of Arabia, east Africa, and the Indian Ocean, while an Abra is a wooden boat used as a ferry. They are still in service today and there are a few different ways to enjoy them. If you’re heading to the souks and need to cross the canal, you’ll use the Abras. It’s only 1AED ($0.30 USD) and run every few minutes from four different stations. The first route goes from Deira Old Souk Abra Station (near the Spice Souk) to Bur Dubai Abra Station (west of the Textile Souk). The second, much busier route, runs continuously from Al Sabkha Abra Station (just southwest of Baniyas Square) to Dubai Old Souk Abra Station. You are also able to hire your own if you want to do more exploring, and would recommend this option followed by a creek side restaurant over a dhow dinner cruise. But if you’re dying to do a Dhow Cinner cruise up and down the creek area, Alexandra Dhow Cruise is a great choice. Prices start at 180 AED ($49.00 USD).
Dubai Fountain Shows - The fountains in the Burj Lake, at the base of the Burj Khalifa, are the world’s largest choreographed fountain show. Viewing is free, and the show starts every 30 minutes starting at 6:00 pm. If you’re self driving, you would use the Dubai Mall parking.
Camel Racing - Camel racing is one of the most important and beloved sports in the U.A.E., and can be traced back to the Seventh Century. Racing is kept on traditional thoroughbred racing camels that are native and distinct to UAE. And if you’re on the board of PETA and wondering how inhumane the Camels are treated- no worries there. These are some of the most pampered animals you’ll ever meet. The Al Marmoom Heritage Festival is the best time of year to see Camel Racing in all its glory, but if you aren’t visiting in April, even a drive around the facilities is a great way to get an insight to the ancient Arabic tradition. The Dubai Camel Racing Club is about a 25 minute drive outside of downtown Dubai.
Places to eat in Dubai.
Dubai has no shortage of world class food. With an endless list of restaurants that include every type of culinary you can imagine, you could easy plan an itinerary to eat your way around the world. Here are some favorites:
Blacktap - This is one of my favorite burger joints straight out of New York City found right below the Burj Khalifa. Known for its epic milkshakes (pictured right) and amazing smash-burgers, it’ll always be a go-to spot for me.
Fi’ilia - Located in the SLS Dubai hotel, this female-led Italian restaurant gives insane views of the Dubai Skyline-line including the Burj Khalifa being front and center. Not only that, but also with open-air, roman courtyard vibes on the 70th floor and one of the best Italian menus you’d find not only in the UAE but possibly even in Italy itself, this place is a winner.
Coya - For some delectable Peruvian fusion food in the middle east, head to Coya. Living up to the standard that its sister restaurants set in the likes of London, Mykonos, and Paris, the Dubai locations serves some insanely flavorful dishes and amazing atmosphere (try the Ceviche!). Coya is located in the Four Seasons hotel and reservations are recommended; however, if you’re deciding to go last minute, you can often snag a seat at the bar.
Shanghai Me - An incredible East Asia menu, Shanghai Me provides an immersive experience of the dynasties of Shanghai throughout the centuries, a terrace resembling the jungles of Southeast Asia, and food that will transport you right into the heart of east Asia. From wasabi truffles to braised beef short ribs, and all the sushi and dumplings in between, this is a great spot for a special night out.
Brunch & Cake Al Wasl - Although the flagship Brunch & Cake is located in Barcelona, this location at Al Wasl brings in all the classics from the original. Along with the classics, Al Wasl adds additional unique items to the menu in the UAE. Not only is this location one of the cutest food stops around with incredible desserts, but it is also probably one of the best places to grab some breakfast if you’re a vegan. The Avo toast is divine!
Saya Brasserie Café - As one of the best breakfast spots in Dubai, and one of the most easily accessed with 5 locations throughout the city, Saya provides one of the most “instagrammable” spots. And with a healthy balance of salads and drool-worthy cookies, whats not to love?
Vibe - If you’ve been gorging around the city and needing to treat your body to some healthier options that are also yummy and easy on the wallet, look no further. Vibe serves up some wonderful breakfast options, acai bowls, and smoothies. In the afternoons, they provide some amazing salmon, falafel, and even ribeye.
La Cantine du Faubourg- If you’re craving a little Parisian fare in the UAE, this is a great spot that balances sound, music, image, art and food really well.
Amazonico Dubai - Mixing the feeling of glamour in the middle of the amazon, topped with incredible sushi dishes, this one if a must try. Choose between the restaurant for a more formal setting or the lounge for a more casual setting- including DJs well in the night. You also can crash the bar for some fun jungle-themed drinks, or the rooftop if you’re feeling a little actiin themed Copacabana.
Logma - Of course the list wouldn’t be complete without a true Arabic restaurant thrown in the mix. Logma serves traditional Emirati & Khaleeji food at incredibly affordable prices. They also serve some of the best Machbous you would have in town as well as cheese samboosa.
Bu Qtair - Some really great fresh seafood in a setting overlooking the marina. Not only is the food delicious, but the prices also make this choice a winner.
Safe travels!
-Kristin
