Have a layover in Dubai and short on time? You can still make the most of your time by exploring the city within a day. With smart planning, you can enjoy the iconic landmarks and traditions of Dubai. Here is a practical guide about what to do in Dubai for a day as a first-time visitor.
Burj Khalifa(8:30 AM – 10 AM)
Start your city tour in Dubai by visiting the world’s tallest tower, Burj Khalifa, with a height of 828 meters, in Downtown. Enjoy the breathtaking morning view of Dubai city from the observation deck on the 124th and 125th floors.
Dubai Mall (10:00 AM – 12:15 PM)
Then visit the Dubai Mall, located near Burj Khalifa. If you are a shopaholic, purchase branded items from the luxury shops in the mall. Other must-see spots in the mall include:
- Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Watch marine life with kids and family in the walk-through tunnel of the aquarium.
- Dubai Ice Rink: The perfect spot to try indoor ice skating on the ground floor of the mall.
- VR park: Try out virtual reality games and other attractions.
Al Fahidi Historical District (12:30 PM – 1:30 PM)
After exploring the Dubai Mall, visit Al Fahidi District by metro or taxi as per your convenience. It is a must-visit destination if you want to explore the rich heritage and traditions of Dubai beyond the city life. This area has a lot of preserved wind-tower houses, art galleries, and museums. Also, enjoy your time in Al Fahidi historical district, wandering through its narrow alleys.
Souk Madinat Jumeirah(2:00 PM – 3:30 PM)
Next, head to Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a popular marketplace that showcases Arabian culture with a modern touch. By afternoon, you can reach this place and enjoy lunch while viewing the iconic Burj Al Arab. Also, don’t forget to buy authentic Arabian souvenirs from this place.
Palm Jumeirah(4:00 PM- 6:30 PM)
Then, visit Palm Jumeirah, the famous man-made island in Dubai. Don’t miss The View at The Palm, a 52nd-floor observation deck where you can see the amazing view of the artificial island. Watch the famous Atlantis Hotel and the city skyline.
Dubai Marina(7:00 PM-9:00 PM)
After the sun sets, enjoy a dinner cruise in a luxury yacht. Sail along Dubai Marina’s waterways on a dinner cruise, with skyscrapers reflecting on the water as you enjoy a buffet. Most of the cruises in Dubai Marina last for about 1.5 to 2 hours, including dinner and live entertainment. However, you should book your dinner cruise in advance and arrive early at the spot.
Dubai Fountain show(9:30 PM – 10:00 PM)
At night, return to Downtown Dubai- where you started the journey and watch the Dubai fountain show outside the Dubai Mall. The fountain show happens every 30 minutes in the evening. It is free to watch, and you can explore different viewing angles. However, be prepared for the crowd as a large number of people arrive to watch this famous show featuring water jets reaching up to 150 meters.
City bus tour(10:00 PM – 12:00 AM)
If you want, end the night with a city bus tour. You can relax on the bus and admire the beauty of Dubai city. Watch and enjoy the views of illuminated skyscrapers in Dubai, like Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab. Also, listen to the recorded audio commentary as you enjoy those breathtaking views of the skyscrapers. Usually, the city bus tour lasts for about 2 hours on an open-top double-decker bus.
Best time to visit Dubai
The cooler months from November to March are perfect for sightseeing and exploring the city. During these months, the weather is pleasant and ideal for tourists and travelers. The months from June to August are very hot, but you can enjoy the indoor attractions like malls in the city.
Optional Add-ons
If you want to explore the city more, then consider these options:
- Helicopter Tour: Enjoy the bird’s-eye view of Dubai city, watching Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and Burj Al Arab.
- Speed boat tour: Have a thrilling ride along the coastline, watching Atlantis and Burj Al Arab
- Short Desert Safari: Want adventure outside the city? Go for a desert safari and ride quadbikes through the red dunes.
Travel Tips for first-time visitors
- Book your tickets in advance for Burj Khalifa, The View at The Palm, and the dinner cruise.
- As the traffic of the city can be frustrating, make proper travel plans, such as using taxis or guidance from a trusted tour operator.
- During your city tour in Dubai, always stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.
- Dress modestly in cultural districts like Al Fahidi.
- Combine different modes of travel, like bus, boat, and helicopter, to experience Dubai city.
Conclusion
Within a day, it is possible to experience the most iconic places in the city of Dubai. This city tour in Dubai combines culture, adventure, and luxury, providing first-time visitors with everything that the city offers. With guided tour packages and smart planning, it’s possible to enjoy the most landmarks in Dubai in a day.
The views from Burj Khalifa, exploring the malls, and ending the travel from the Dinner cruise in Dubai Marina, each spot reveals the charm of the city. Even if you have only a day, this itinerary ensures that you will leave Dubai with a lot of memories and photos.
