Five Days in Dubai
I had an incredible opportunity to visit Dubai a year ago, in March 2018. It was a whirlwind of a tour as this city, the largest of the seven Emirates, has a lot to offer. From shopping to dining to dune bashing in the desert, there is something for everyone. In this blog, I’d like to inspire you consider visiting this very dynamic and innovative city some time soon!
Day 1: Old Dubai. A great way to get oriented to the culture and history is to stop in to the Saruq Al-Hadid interactive museum, in the historical district of Dubai. Planning to be indoors in the middle of the day is a great strategy. The Textile Souk (also covered) is in the area as well. And then it’s easy Metro trip or water-taxi across the river to the Gold and Spice Souks on Baniyas Street, in Deira. You can stay and have dinner here as the sun sets on Dubai Creek. There are lots of kebab vendors and local eateries along the river.
Day 2: Dubai Mall & Area. There is nothing like shopping in Dubai! The Dubai Mall is in an area where you can split your time between sightseeing and shopping. With over 500 thousand square metres, the Dubai Mall is the 26th-largest shopping mall in the world. It boasts an Aquarium, Underwater Zoo and Ice Rink. As well, the Burj Khalifa (take a ride half a mile up into the sky) and Opera House are in the vicinity. Definitely a day’s worth of sights. Lots of great spots to eat or simply people watch.
Day 3: Dubai Miracle Gardens. It wasn’t high on my list but based on a rave review from a tourist, I decided to go. And it was amazing. If you have any interest in horticulture, this is a must-see. The largest flower arrangement in the world is here – an Emirates jet covered in living plants. The transit point (by bus) is the Mall of the Emirates which is another good stop to cool off from the heat. Here you can enjoy some great dining, as you watch skiers take to the indoor slopes.
Day 4: Dune Bashing. There are all kinds of tour companies offering trips into the desert for dune bashing, camel rides, belly dancing, henna painting, and dinner under the stars. While the latter activities are quite touristy, the dune bashing was exhilarating and got the adrenaline going. It’s a wonder that our 4×4 didn’t tip over. Definitely a once-in-a-lifetime experience! Book at your hotel a day or two before, there is always space. Note that this is a full day excursion.
Day 5: The Beach: There are so many options but I chose to check out The Palm and Aquarius. On public transit, it was quite a trip but well worth it. Brunch at this Fairmont property is absolutely decadent. And exploring the site is an experience onto itself. The indoor Aquarium where you can swim with the dolphins, and there is an outdoor Waterpark. Really over the top. On the trip there and back, you also get amazing views of the Burj Al Arab.
Well, that sums up highlights of five incredible days. Clearly, there is so much more to do and see, but if that is all the time you have, those the attractions that I would put high on the list! Travel safe!