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When it comes to taking a well-deserved break, Dubai truly shines as a cosmopolitan playground. It’s a destination where relaxation meets indulgence, and every corner offers something to elevate your downtime.
Dubai offers everything you need to recharge—whether that’s pure relaxation, a taste of adventure, or simply basking in the lap of luxury. It’s a cosmopolitan escape where you can truly spoil yourself!
Here’s a handy tip I wish I’d known before: always carry tissue paper with you when traveling in the UAE or other Middle Eastern countries. On one occasion during my trip, I found myself in a restroom equipped only with a shower hose, commonly known as a bidet spray. While this is perfectly normal and practical for locals, as a European, I wasn’t quite used to it!
Having tissue paper with me saved the day and made the experience a lot more comfortable. It’s a small thing, but it can make a big difference, especially when you’re out exploring all day. So, whether you’re hitting the desert dunes or strolling through the souks, pop a pack of tissues in your bag—you’ll thank yourself later!
Here’s a little trick that made my sightseeing so much easier: buy your tickets online in advance. Not only did it save me the hassle of standing in long queues under the blazing sun, but it also let me skip straight to the fun part—exploring!
Whether it was visiting iconic landmarks or booking activities, having those tickets ready meant I could make the most of my time without wasting it waiting around.
So, before you head out on your next adventure, check if you can snag those tickets ahead of time. It’s one of those small but mighty hacks that makes a huge difference when you’re on the go.
Download the Careem application to your mobile phone and always select the “Hala Taxi” service.
“Hala” means “welcome” or “greeting” in Arabic. It’s a government-regulated taxi service. They operate under the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), which sets the fares and ensures that pricing is consistent and fair. Therefore, Hala Taxis are transparent and reliable.
Alternatively, if you plan to do plenty of sightseeing in one day, opt for the metro. You need to get a Nol card, top it up, and swipe as you go. Easy peasy!
A five-day visit should suffice to see the best Dubai.
WhatsApp voice and video calls are blocked in the UAE. You can usually use all the other messaging functions. For example, you can send a WhatsApp video, but you can not make a WhatsApp video call. Download “Go Chat Messenger” to make voice and video calls. Invite others to download the app to receive your calls, and visa versa.
Dubai has made great strides in terms of its public dress code, which is very much in line with the West. However, cover up when you enter religious grounds.
UTC+04:00 (UAE Standard Time).
AED, i.e., the United Arab Emirates dirham (also known as Emirati dirham – abbreviated to DH or Dhs). The dirham is subdivided into 100 fils. Credit cards are widely accepted. You can get away without carrying cash with you.
Dubai is warm all year round! It’s one of the city’s defining features and a big reason why it’s such a popular destination for sun-seekers.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what to expect:
No matter when you go, sunshine is guaranteed, so pack your swimwear and sunscreen! Whether you prefer the mild winter or are ready to embrace the summer heat, Dubai’s warm weather is always ready to welcome you.
Guinness World Records
Dubai has the world’s longest driverless metro line. The 52 km red line combined with the 22.5 km green line makes for a Guinness World Record.
If you’re looking for a stay in Dubai that blends comfort, convenience, and exceptional service, Arjaan by Rotana in Dubai Media City is a gem. This hotel is a fantastic choice for solo travelers and couples, offering a serene escape in the heart of a bustling city. It’s a short 20-minute drive from the airport, and the hotel offers airport transfers.
One of the best perks? It’s just a short stroll from the tram, making it easy to explore Dubai without the hassle of navigating city traffic. But what really sets this place apart is the hospitality. The staff go above and beyond to ensure your stay is nothing short of perfect—from the warm smiles at check-in to the personalized touches that make you feel like a VIP.
Hungry? The pool deck is a must-visit. Imagine dining under the stars, overlooking a tranquil atmosphere with excellent non-alcoholic beverages to pair with your meal. It’s not just a dining spot; it’s a little slice of relaxation.
The rooms are a dream—spacious, well-equipped, and designed for comfort. Whether you’re crashing after a long day of sightseeing or taking a break from work, you’ll find everything you need and more. Feeling too tired to head out for a meal after a late arrival? The 24/7 room service has got you covered with delicious options delivered straight to your door.
For anyone looking to enjoy Dubai with style and ease, Arjaan by Rotana is a no-brainer.
When visiting Dubai, combining the Miracle Garden, Global Village, and Butterfly Garden into one day is a brilliant way to maximize your time and budget. These three attractions are located close to each other, making it easy to explore them all without unnecessary back-and-forth travel costs.
Start with the Miracle Garden: Spend your morning wandering through this floral wonderland. With vibrant flower displays and whimsical designs, it’s a photographer’s dream and a lovely place to kick off your day in a relaxed setting. Flora-lovers must visit the Miracle Garden, the world’s largest natural flower garden. The 72,000 sq. m garden features over 50 million flowers and 250 million plants! It’s a spectacle of colors and scents.
Check availability: Skip-The-Line Ticket to Dubai Miracle Garden or, Ticket with Hotel Transfer
Head to the Butterfly Garden: Just a short hop away, this indoor sanctuary is a magical experience. Step into a tropical haven filled with fluttering butterflies from all over the world. It’s a perfect spot to cool down and enjoy some quiet charm.
Wrap Up at Global Village: As the sun sets, make your way to this cultural extravaganza. It’s not just a place to shop—it’s a global culinary adventure! Sample authentic dishes from countries around the world, soak in live performances, and explore pavilions showcasing unique crafts and products.
Check availability: Skip-The-Line Ticket to Global Village, or Ticket with Transfer
By planning all three attractions for the same day, you’ll make the most of your trip to this part of Dubai and save on transport, leaving you more time and money to enjoy everything else this vibrant city has to offer!
Best Value – Check availability: Three at One Time !! Dubai Miracle Garden with Butterfly Garden & Global Village
Due to the extreme heat, the Miracle Garden closes during the summer months, typically from late May to September.
Go up to the 124th floor in the Burj Khalifa building. The building is known for being the tallest building in the world at 829.8 m. The gravity-defying view from the observation deck is jaw-droppingly beautiful.
Dubai’s Museum of the Future isn’t just a museum—it’s a portal to what lies ahead. This cutting-edge marvel invites you to immerse yourself in a visionary journey through the possibilities of tomorrow.
What Makes It Unmissable?
Why Visit?
The Museum of the Future isn’t about relics of the past. It’s about inspiring hope, sparking creativity, and showing what we can achieve with innovation. Plus, its prime location in Dubai’s Sheikh Zayed Road makes it easy to pair with other attractions like Emirates Towers or Downtown Dubai.
Other museums worth seeing....
At the 18th century home of the Dubai Museum, the Al-Fahidi Fort, you’ll get to know about Emirati musical instruments, and the effect the oil boom had on the Emirates.
They also have a Coffee Museum where you can see coffee artifacts from around the world. Participate in a Bedouin coffee ritual, an Arab tradition.
Whether shopping excites you or not, the Dubai Mall deserves a spot on your itinerary, and here’s why—it offers a world of experiences beyond retail therapy, and many of them don’t cost a dime!
Here’s what makes it unmissable:
Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: While you can buy tickets to explore inside, just standing in front of the massive tank with sharks, rays, and thousands of fish is mesmerizing—and free!
The Dubai Dino: A full, real dinosaur skeleton smack in the middle of the mall. It’s a unique sight you won’t want to miss.
VR Park: Even if you’re not playing, this futuristic arcade is fun to explore. It’s like stepping into a different world.
Art Installations: The mall is dotted with art and sculptures that make for great Instagram shots or just a moment of quiet admiration.
When you’re done exploring, head outside to the Dubai Fountain. Located by the Burj Khalifa Lake, it’s one of the world’s largest choreographed fountain systems. Watch as the water dances to music in a dazzling display of lights and motion. Here’s why it’s worth it:
Even if you’re not a shopping enthusiast, the Dubai Mall and its surroundings offer plenty of exciting things to see and do, making it more than just a shopping destination—it’s a full-on experience!
(Half day activity)
If you’re curious about Dubai’s souks—the city’s iconic, bustling marketplaces—let me tell you what to expect. They’re a fascinating mix of history, culture, and sensory overload, but they can also be, well, a bit overwhelming at times.
When you first step into a souk, you’ll be greeted by a maze of narrow alleyways brimming with colorful goods and tantalizing scents. Gold jewelry sparkles in shop windows, vibrant textiles hang in every shade imaginable, and the aroma of exotic spices fills the air. It’s easy to get caught up in the charm of it all, and I won’t deny—it’s magical.
But here’s the thing: while the souks are rich in culture, they’re also full of eager vendors who, let’s say, really want your attention. From the moment you step in, you might feel like everyone is trying to sell you something, whether it’s a pashmina scarf, a bottle of perfume, or a pack of saffron. And trust me, they’re persistent! At first, it’s all part of the lively atmosphere, but after a while, it can get a little tiring, especially if you’re not in the mood to shop.
That said, there are ways to make the experience more enjoyable. A simple “no, thank you” with a polite smile usually works (even if you have to repeat it more than you’d like). And if something does catch your eye, bargaining is where the fun happens—just remember, it’s all part of the tradition here.
If you’re weighing up a visit to the souks versus Dubai’s sleek malls, here’s my take: the malls are polished, luxurious, and stress-free—great for when you want a relaxing day out. The souks, on the other hand, are raw, authentic, and packed with character, but they’re definitely not everyone’s cup of tea. If crowds and constant sales pitches aren’t your thing, a short visit might be all you need to check it off your list.
Ultimately, the souks are an adventure—sometimes dazzling, sometimes draining, but undeniably unique. Whether you leave with a one-of-a-kind treasure or just an interesting story to tell, they’re an experience you won’t forget. Just go in with an open mind (and maybe a little patience), and you’ll find your way through the chaos.
(Mid-afternoon to late evening activity)
If you need a break from the glittering skyline and endless shopping malls, a nighttime desert safari is what you need. It’s the perfect mix of adrenaline, culture, and relaxation, all wrapped up in the golden sands of the Arabian Desert.
The adventure kicks off with some thrilling dune bashing in an air-conditioned 4×4 vehicle (yes, comfort is key). Next stop? A traditional desert camp where a whole world of activities awaits. Like a short camel ride,and the chance to get a lovely henna tattoo—don’t worry, it’s all natural and washes off after a few weeks. And then comes the highlight of the evening: a delicious barbecue buffet with both local and international dishes. Whether you’re a vegetarian or a meat lover, you’re covered.
The entertainment was mesmerizing! A mix of Tanura dancing (think twirling skirts and hypnotic movements), a daring fire show, and classic belly dancing lit up the night. You can try new experiences, like treating yourself to a shisha pipe in the designated shisha area.
If you’re looking for a taste of adventure, a touch of tradition, and a whole lot of fun, this desert safari ticks all the boxes. – CHECK AVAILABILITY
So much to choose from! If you do Dubai Marina, go in the afternoon (shop at the Dubai Marina Mall) and hop on a sunset cruise to the Palm Islands. Dinner at the Marina is a feast of restaurants from different countries across the world.
The Dubai Creek divides this United Arab Emirates city into two towns. Namely, Deira (north) and Bur Dubai (south). Go see the Dhow Warfage, known for its fishing dhows.
If you always wanted to ski or snowboard but never had the opportunity, now is the time. At Ski Dubai, which is part of the Mall of the Emirates, you can play around in the snow. It’s about 22,500 m in size and even has a chairlift. Ski Dubai is the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East. Of course, it is not real snow, but it’s remarkably close to the real deal. Dress warm because you can expect temperatures of -1ºC to 2 ºC.
Dubai plans for the Dubai Marina to be the largest man-made marina globally. A boat excursion to view the spectacular skyscraper architecture from the waterside is highly recommended. Take a boat cruise on an abra. i.e. a traditional boat.
Meander in the small alleyways of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Pop in at a gallery or two, and grab some local cuisine.
The fun-filled amusement park not only has iconic city views, but it’s also the perfect place for adrenaline-pumping adventures. Set amid Jumeirah’s beach hotels this outdoor water park is also a great spot to spend a lazy afternoon at the poolside. The fun-themed park (based on the tale of Juha, a popular character in Arabian folklore) offers rides and attractions for young (a guaranteed hit) and old, all year through.
Address: Opposite Burj Al Arab – Jumeirah St – Umm SuqeimUmm Suqeim 3 – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
The park is an adventure waiting to happen with zip lines, slides through shark-filled lagoons, and a splash area for the kiddies. Aquaventure water park will have your pulse racing, no doubt about that! Also, consider going down Dubai’s longest river, the Lazy River – it’s fun.
Address: Atlantis The Palm – Crescent Rd – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
It took over 3 billion cubic feet of sand from the seabed and 7 million tons of rock from the Hajar Mountains.
Explore the Palm Islands on a fun jet ski ride. Alternatively, why not enjoy a thrilling tandem skydive to get another great view of Dubai?
It’s worth it! Experience the highlights of Abu Dhabi on this premium full-day tour from Dubai. Over approximately nine hours, including transfers, you’ll explore the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque with a knowledgeable guide, marvel at the modern marvel of Etihad Towers, and soak in the beauty of the city’s skyline.
Discover the opulence of Qasr Al Watan, the stunning presidential palace, and enjoy a scenic drive along the picturesque Corniche. You’ll also pass by the luxurious Emirates Palace, a symbol of Abu Dhabi’s elegance and grandeur.
This tour seamlessly blends the city’s rich cultural heritage with its modern architecture, offering a comprehensive look at the capital of the UAE. Ideal if you’re looking to experience the best of Abu Dhabi in a day, this tour has plenty of unforgettable moments at every stop. – CHECK AVAILABILITY
It’s a food lover’s paradise, where flavors from around the world come together in a glorious gastronomic symphony. Picture this: you’re strolling through the bustling streets, and the enticing aromas of spices and grilled delicacies fill the air.
Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, and that’s perfectly reflected in its food. From authentic Emirati cuisine to tantalizing Indian curries, and aromatic Lebanese mezze to mouthwatering Italian pastas, you’ll find it all here. The city boasts an impressive array of restaurants, from high-end fine dining establishments to charming hidden gems tucked away in vibrant neighborhoods.
Let’s talk about the lavish brunches that are legendary in Dubai. Imagine a lavish buffet spread, brimming with fresh seafood, succulent roasts, colorful salads, and decadent desserts. Oh, and don’t forget the free-flowing beverages that keep the good times rolling. It’s an indulgent feast that will leave you in a state of culinary bliss.
But Dubai isn’t just about fine dining and brunches. The city embraces street food with open arms. Wander through the bustling night markets, known as souks, and you’ll find sizzling shawarmas, aromatic falafels, and juicy kebabs beckoning you to take a bite. And if you’re craving something sweet, there’s no shortage of irresistible treats like sticky baklava, freshly baked kunafa (or kunefe), and creamy Arabic ice cream.
And let’s not forget the innovative and daring culinary creations that Dubai is known for. Talented chefs from around the world flock to this city to showcase their skills and push the boundaries of gastronomy. You’ll find avant-garde fusion dishes that blend flavors and techniques from different cuisines, ensuring every meal is a delightful adventure for your taste buds.
Whether you’re a foodie on a quest for new flavors or someone who simply enjoys good food, Dubai’s culinary scene will leave you in awe. It’s a city where diverse cultures converge on the plate, creating a vibrant tapestry of flavors that will make your taste buds dance with joy. So come hungry, because Dubai is ready to take you on a culinary journey like no other!
Make a dinner reservation or stop for cocktails at Burj Al-Arab hotel. The hotel is not only the tallest hotel in the world, but it has an underwater restaurant. So, if dining amongst sea creatures sounds attractive to you, make your reservation well in advance to avoid disappointment.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is Dubai’s primary international airport.
Finally, Dubai is a city of limitless possibilities and awaits your arrival. Take the plunge, and book your trip!
Explore Ancient Marvels, Breathtaking Islands, and Vibrant Culture. Your Ultimate Adventure Starts Here – Order Now and Embark on Your Greek Odyssey! Available in printed and kindle editions.
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