Habibi, come to Dubai… This city surprised me in every possible way—it’s nothing like what I expected. And honestly, I didn’t expect much more than skyscrapers, skyscrapers, and… more skyscrapers!
I spent 8 packed days exploring Dubai, and came home with way more impressions than just tall buildings.
Although I didn’t visit Dubai on a cruise this time, I picked up plenty of tips that cruisers will find super helpful. If you want to make the most of your time here, a bit of planning really does make all the difference.
Dubai has two cruise terminals, with the main one located in Port Rashid, not far from the historic Old Town and about 13 km (8 miles) from Downtown Dubai and the iconic Burj Khalifa.
If your cruise starts from Dubai, I highly recommend arriving a couple of days early and staying in a hotel in the Downtown area (I’ll tell you all about the one I stayed at in a moment!). That way, you can get a real feel for the city before you sail.
Dubai is massive, and its top attractions are spread out all over the place, so it’s important to plan ahead and prioritize what you want to see. And that’s exactly where I come in!
After spending a week exploring Dubai, I’ve gathered a bunch of handy tips—especially useful if you’ve only got a short amount of time here.
In this post, I’ll give you a quick overview of the cruise ports so you know where your ship will dock, then walk you through the top things to do in Dubai, how to get around, and practical travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.
A Quick Introduction to Dubai
Before you arrive, there are a few things you should know about Dubai. It’s one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and while it’s modern, luxurious, and full of jaw-dropping architecture, it’s also a place with deep cultural roots and traditions.
The city is safe, clean, and tourist-friendly, but it’s huge, hot for most of the year, and can be expensive if you’re not prepared.
The best time to visit is between November and March, when the weather is pleasantly warm and ideal for sightseeing.
Dubai is made up of very different areas—Downtown Dubai is home to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, while Dubai Marina and JBR have a more relaxed, beachy vibe.
Then there’s Old Dubai, where you’ll find the souks, historic neighborhoods, and a glimpse of what the city looked like before the skyscrapers took over.
For something more scenic and atmospheric, Madinat Jumeirah is a beautiful spot designed like an old Arabian town, with canals, traditional architecture, souk-style shops, and views of the Burj Al Arab.
Dubai is a modern, international city, so there’s no need to cover your head or wear traditional clothing—but it’s still nice to dress modestly, especially in public areas like malls and traditional neighborhoods.
If you plan to visit a mosque or any religious site, women will need to wear a scarf to cover their head, along with clothing that covers arms and legs.
Dubai Cruise Port Overview
Dubai has two cruise terminals: Port Rashid (Mina Rashid) and the newer Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal.
Most cruise lines, especially those homeporting in Dubai like MSC, Costa, and AIDA, dock at Port Rashid, which is located near the historic Old Dubai area and about 13 km (8 miles) from Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa.
It’s a luxurious, well-equipped port with multiple terminals, including one of the world’s largest. You can check out Port Rashid’s official webpage for more details on the terminals and facilities.
Some ships may also dock at Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal, the city’s newer cruise port located in the Dubai Marina area. While most cruises still use Port Rashid, some ships may dock here, especially when there’s high traffic at the main port.
It’s conveniently close to popular attractions like The Palm Jumeirah, Ain Dubai, and Marina Walk, which is a great starting point for exploring the modern side of the city.
Though not yet widely used for homeporting, Dubai Harbour is becoming more active, particularly for luxury cruise lines and Marina-based itineraries.
Useful tip: It’s good to check your cruise documents in advance so you know where you’ll be docking, as the two ports are about 30-35 minutes apart by car.
Getting Around Dubai
Getting around in Dubai is pretty easy and straightforward, with several convenient transportation options.
The Dubai Metro is a clean, efficient, and affordable way to navigate the city.
It features two main lines—the Red Line, which runs along Sheikh Zayed Road connecting key areas like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and the airport, and the Green Line, serving historic districts such as Deira and Bur Dubai.
Fares are based on zones, and for occasional travelers, the Red Nol Card is a good option. I paid AED 8 for a single ride (around $2.18).
For the most current information on fares and card options, it’s advisable to check the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website.
While the metro is a great option, I found Uber to be exceptionally convenient during my week in Dubai.
The service is reasonably priced, offers door-to-door convenience, and allows payment via cash or card. Simply install the Uber app, set up your account, and you’re ready to book rides.
Taxis are also widely available throughout the city. However, I did run into a few situations where taxi drivers took longer routes or charged more than expected—so I’d stick with Uber for a more reliable experience.
If you’re arriving via cruise, shuttle services may be available at the terminal. It’s advisable to check this option with your cruise line or inquire on-site with local operators for the most accurate information.
And if you’re exploring Old Dubai, don’t miss taking a traditional abra boat across the creek. It’s just AED 4, and while it’s not the fastest way to get around, it’s a fun, authentic experience worth doing.
That said, I still think Uber is the best way to get around. It’s affordable, and I literally used it several times a day the entire week.
Since Dubai is huge and there’s a lot of walking involved—even if you take the metro—Uber drops you right at your destination, which saves both time and energy. Just install the app, connect your payment method, and you’re good to go.
Currency and Prices in Dubai
Dubai uses the UAE Dirham (AED), and the exchange rate is roughly 1 USD = 3.67 AED.
I’m terrible at math, so I was constantly converting in my head or checking a currency converter online. If you’re like me, definitely use a currency converter to avoid surprises.
There are plenty of exchange offices around Dubai, including in the cruise terminal, but since I haven’t used those, I can’t say for sure if their rates are good.
In general, the exchange rate is decent in places like Dubai Mall or shopping centers around town, but avoid changing money at airports or hotels—those tend to be a rip-off.
I actually landed at Abu Dhabi airport, exchanged a small amount for Uber, and totally overpaid. If possible, pay by card or change money in a trusted exchange office in town (or at the terminal, just check the rate first).
The prices in Dubai can really vary depending on where you go. As a European, I found Dubai to be quite expensive, especially in areas like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, JBR, and Madinat Jumeirah.
Uber is reasonably priced, but most other things, like meals, drinks, shopping, and attractions, can get pricey.
For example, I saw Dubai chocolate in Dubai Mall for AED 300 (around $80!), but found 7 bars for AED 200 ($54) in Old Dubai. Still not cheap, but definitely better.
If you’re planning to dine in Downtown, especially near the Burj Khalifa, expect to pay around AED 100–150 ($27–$41) per meal, plus drinks. And drinks are pricey—Aperol Spritz goes for AED 70–90 ($19–$24), cocktails start at AED 90, and even a simple coffee can cost AED 35–50 ($9–$14).
On the flip side, if you’re exploring Old Dubai, you’ll find plenty of cheap eats and local spots that won’t break the bank.
Ticket prices for attractions also vary. Burj Khalifa starts at AED 149 ($41), while places like Miracle Garden and Global Village are more affordable—I’ll break down the prices further in the next sections.
Just a small note that credit/debit cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases, and ATMs are available all over the city.
Use an eSim Card
To easily navigate the city, I highly recommend using an eSIM card—it saves you so much time and stress. I personally use the Airalo app every time I travel, and it worked perfectly in Dubai.
Just install the app, buy a local eSIM that covers the UAE (they have super affordable options), follow the simple steps to install and activate it, and you’re connected right away.
It’s way easier than hunting for a local SIM card, and you’ll have internet access the moment you land—perfect for booking Ubers, using Google Maps, or checking attraction hours on the go.
Just don’t forget to download Google Maps and the Uber app ahead of time, and maybe an offline map app too, just in case.
What to Wear in Dubai (+ Cultural Etiquette)
When it comes to what to wear on your Dubai cruise, light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes are a must—there’s a lot of walking, and the heat can be intense, even in winter.
Dubai is quite modern and international, so you don’t need to cover up fully, but it’s still good to dress modestly in public areas like malls, souks, and traditional neighborhoods (shoulders and knees covered is a safe bet).
If you’re visiting a mosque or religious site, women will need a scarf to cover their head, and both men and women should wear long pants and covered shoulders.
Also, keep in mind that public displays of affection are frowned upon, and during Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours out of respect for local customs.
Where to Stay in Dubai
Dubai is huge and spread out, so where you stay makes a big difference.
If you’re short on time or cruising out of Port Rashid, I recommend staying in or near Downtown Dubai (search the hotels in Business Bay area, it’s another name for Downtown) as it’s close to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and well-connected to everything.
My hotel of choice was the Canal Central Hotel in Business Bay, a lovely 5-star hotel that I managed to book for a surprisingly good price.
The room was spacious and cozy, breakfast was included, and the pool area was perfect for relaxing between sightseeing trips.
The hotel is located less than 4 km from Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, so my Uber rides were cheap and under 10 minutes.
The location was also really central, so it was easy to reach other parts of Dubai, whether you wanted to go to the Marina, the Old Town, or the beach.
Other great options for stay include Dubai Marina or Madinat Jumeirah if you prefer beach vibes or want to be near the Palm.
For something more budget-friendly and local, Old Dubai (around Deira or Bur Dubai districts) offers good value and a more traditional feel.
If you’re planning a pre- or post-cruise stay, it’s worth booking a hotel near a metro station or with good Uber access—you’ll save both time and money.
Emirati Cuisine & Where to Eat in Dubai
Dubai is a food lover’s dream—you’ll find everything from luxury fine dining to tasty street food and traditional Emirati cuisine.
If you want to try local dishes, look for places serving machboos (spiced rice with meat or fish), harees, and luqaimat (sweet fried dumplings drizzled with date syrup).
A great spot to explore traditional flavors is Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant in Al Fahidi or Al Fanar for a more classic Emirati vibe.
But honestly, you’ll find a bit of everything in Dubai—Indian, Lebanese, Iranian, Asian fusion, you name it.
If you’re visiting Dubai on a budget, head to Old Dubai or Karama, where the food is delicious and affordable.
For a more upscale experience, Dubai Marina, Downtown, and the Palm are packed with trendy restaurants with stunning views.
Dubai Weather (When to Visit)
Weather in Dubai is something to keep in mind when planning your trip.
The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March, when temperatures are warm but pleasant, perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
This also lines up with Dubai’s cruise season, which typically runs from November through May. By late April and May, the heat starts to kick in, and by June to September, it gets extremely hot, often over 40°C (104°F).
If you’re visiting toward the end of the cruise season, be prepared for rising temperatures and try to plan outdoor activities early in the morning or in the evening.
Safety
Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world, with very low crime rates and a strong sense of security, even at night.
It’s perfectly safe to walk around most areas, use public transport, and explore on your own.
That said, like anywhere, it’s still smart to stay aware of your surroundings and be cautious with valuables in crowded places.
Airports in Dubai/Abu Dhabi
Dubai has two major international airports: Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).
Most international flights arrive at DXB, which is closer to the city center and just about 15–20 minutes drive from Port Rashid. DWC is located further out near Jebel Ali and is mostly used for low-cost carriers and charter flights.
If you’re flying with a cruise in mind, try to land at DXB if possible, it’s more convenient.
Some travelers also fly into Abu Dhabi International Airport (aka Zayed International Airport), which is about 1h 15 minutes away from Dubai by car.
I landed in Abu Dhabi and arranged an Uber to Dubai, which cost me between $80 and $100, but I managed to find some other travelers so we split the cost.
There’s also an airport shuttle bus that runs between Zayed International Airport in Abu Dhabi and Ibn Battuta Bus Station in Dubai, which is located near Dubai Marina. It’s a budget-friendly option, but the downside is that you can’t book it in advance.
If you land at Abu Dhabi airport, just head to the arrivals hall and ask about the shuttle—that’s also where you can purchase your ticket.
Keep in mind the currency exchange at the airport is pricey, only change what you absolutely need, or pay by card.
11 Best Things to Do in Dubai
Now let’s talk about the top things to do in Dubai, including the places and experiences you absolutely shouldn’t miss!
I spent a full week in the city and tried out a lot, but if you’re visiting for a shorter time, you can easily choose what fits your interests and schedule.
If you only have one day, I highly recommend focusing on Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa area—this part of the city left the strongest impression on me and really captures the wow-factor that Dubai is known for.
1. Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall & Aquarium)
1.1. Burj Khalifa
You simply can’t visit Dubai without seeing the Burj Khalifa—it’s the tallest building in the world, standing at a mind-blowing 828 meters (that’s nearly three times taller than the Eiffel Tower!).
It has 163 floors, and the elevator ride is one of the fastest in the world (you reach the 124th floor in a minute!).
You can go up to the 124th and 125th floors with basic ticket “At the Top” (starting at AED 179).
If you want the full experience (which is also more expensive), head all the way to level 148, which holds the record for the highest observation deck on the planet at 555 meters.
With the basic ticket, you’ll get access to the 124th and 125th floors, where you can step out onto the open-air observation deck, perfect for snapping some amazing photos.
There’s also a gift shop, a small café, and viewing binoculars to help you spot landmarks across the city from up high.
If you’re into a bit of adrenaline, you can also book the Sky Views Edge Walk—a hands-free walk along the edge of the building’s sky deck, 219.5 meters above ground. Definitely not for the faint-hearted!
Ticket prices depend on how high you go and the time of day, so check the official website for current rates and packages.
Explore Burj Khalifa tours and tickets
1.2. Dubai Mall
The Burj Khalifa is directly connected to Dubai Mall, so you can easily combine your visit with a stop at the Aquarium, some shopping, or a much-needed coffee break (you’ll need one after all that walking!).
Dubai Mall isn’t just a mall—it’s a full-on experience! It’s one of the biggest shopping centers in the world, with over 1,200 stores, an indoor ice rink, Dubai Aquarium, VR Park, and more.
Even if you’re not into shopping, it’s worth visiting just to walk around and take it all in.
That said, it’s not exactly budget-friendly as most shops and restaurants are on the expensive side, so be prepared if you plan to eat or buy anything here.
Check out Dubai Mall tours and activities
After your visit to Burj Khalifa, I highly recommend stopping by L’ETO Café inside Dubai Mall—it has one of the best views of the iconic Dubai Fountain!
We went there during the day for coffee and their famous Dubai cheesecake, and came back for dinner in the evening to watch the fountain show, which was absolutely spectacular!
Prices at the café are similar to other spots in Downtown, but the view makes it totally worth it.
1.3. The Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system, located right outside Dubai Mall at the base of the Burj Khalifa.
The water jets shoot up to 150 meters high, dancing in sync with music and lights—it’s honestly one of the most magical experiences in Dubai!
The show is free to watch, beautifully choreographed to music, and runs every evening, approximately every 30 minutes.
The whole area around the Burj and the fountains comes alive at night, and it’s 100% worth spending your evening here.
The combination of the illuminated tower and the fountain show is simply WOW—it was the #1 highlight of my entire trip to Dubai! 🙂
Explore Dubai fountain show & lake ride tours and tickets
1.4. The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, located inside Dubai Mall, is one of the city’s most popular attractions.
It features a massive 10-million-liter tank with over 33,000 aquatic animals, including sharks, rays, and giant groupers. It’s even considered one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world.
That said, I honestly expected it to be bigger. If you’ve ever been to the Oceanogràfic Aquarium in Valencia, you’ll probably find that one more impressive.
Tickets start at AED 149 ($41) for the basic package, and there are more expensive options with extras like glass-bottom boat rides or penguin encounters.
You can also buy combo tickets that include Burj Khalifa access, which might be a better deal.
I was lucky to find a discount on Viator, so I booked my ticket there and saved a bit. For the latest prices and package options, check the official website.
Check out Dubai Aquarium tours and tickets
2. Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is one of the most modern and vibrant areas of the city, known for its skyscraper-lined waterfront, luxury yachts, and relaxed seaside vibe.
It’s a great place for a walk, especially along the Marina Walk, where you’ll find plenty of cafes, restaurants, and amazing photo spots.
One of the main landmarks here is the Dubai Marina Mall—much smaller and quieter than Dubai Mall, but still a nice place to shop or grab a bite.
We stopped for a smoothie on one of the mall’s outdoor terraces, and the view of the surrounding towers and marina was just stunning!
Nearby, you’ll also find Ain Dubai (the world’s tallest observation wheel), JBR Beach, and lots of great dining options right by the water.
For cruisers docking at Port Rashid, Dubai Marina is approximately 31 kilometers (19 miles) away, which translates to a 30 to 35-minute Uber ride, depending on traffic.
Explore Dubai Marina tours and activities
3. The Palm Jumeirah
The Palm Jumeirah is one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks—an artificial island shaped like a giant palm tree, packed with luxury hotels, beach clubs, and incredible views.
At the tip of the Palm is the famous Atlantis, The Palm resort, home to the Aquaventure Waterpark and the Lost Chambers Aquarium.
I didn’t have time to visit Atlantis this time, but my hotel offered free beach access to C Central Hotel & Resort The Palm, which was perfect.
We spent a relaxing afternoon there and even got to watch the sunset with Atlantis in the background—absolutely stunning!
If you want a bird’s-eye view of the island, The View at The Palm observation deck is a great spot.
There’s also Nakheel Mall for shopping and dining, and the Palm Monorail makes it easy to get around the island if you’re not using Uber.
We skipped the aquarium this time, but it’s definitely on the list for next visit!
Explore The Palm Jumeirah tours and activities
4. Dubai Miracle Garden
We absolutely loved Dubai Miracle Garden—it’s like stepping into a vibrant floral wonderland!
With over 150 million natural flowers arranged into stunning sculptures and designs, it’s a feast for the eyes.
From heart-shaped arches and castles to a life-size Emirates A380 airplane covered entirely in blooms, the creativity is just mind-blowing!
It’s also amazing how they maintain everything in a desert climate—the garden uses a sustainable drip irrigation system with recycled water to keep all the flowers thriving.
We spent hours wandering through the themed areas, snapping photos, and just soaking in the beauty.
There are also shaded restaurants and kiosk-style spots with seating, so we took a break with a fresh mango juice, coffee, and pizza—a perfect little recharge before continuing our visit.
If you’re in Dubai between November and April, this place is an absolute must-see.
Insider tip: visit on a sunny day to see the colors at their most vivid—cloudy or foggy weather just doesn’t do it justice.
Check out Dubai Miracle Garden tours and tickets
5. Global Village
Global Village was such a fun surprise and a completely different experience from the rest of Dubai.
It’s a huge outdoor cultural and entertainment park where you can explore pavilions from countries around the world, try different foods, shop for unique souvenirs, and catch live performances.
The place only opens after 4 or 5 PM, and honestly—it’s best to go at night. That’s when it really comes to life with all the lights, music, and street food smells filling the air.
We loved wandering through the different sections, tasting snacks from everywhere, and just soaking up the atmosphere.
There’s also a carnival area with rides and games if you’re in the mood for something more playful.
If you’re visiting between October and April, it’s definitely worth adding to your evening plans!
It’s relatively near the Dubai Miracle Garden, so you can combine these two attractions in the same day (that’s what we did).
Explore Global Village tours and tickets
6. Old Dubai and Deira
If you want to experience the more traditional side of the city, Old Dubai and Deira are a must.
This area feels completely different from the modern part of Dubai—it’s full of history, culture, and character.
We explored the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, wandered the quiet lanes, and visited the charming Coffee Museum for a small fee, which we absolutely loved.
There’s also a cozy Arabic tea café nearby where we had the most delicious Arabic tea and warm date cake—simple, tasty, and really affordable.
In Deira, we hopped on a traditional abra boat (just AED 4!) to cross the creek and explore the Gold, Textile and Spice Souks.
You can definitely bargain here, and I ended up buying Dubai chocolate, a cashmere and silk shawl, and yes—you can even buy gold if that’s on your list.
This whole area is also not far from Port Rashid, so it’s perfect for a pre- or post-cruise visit if you want to see a more authentic side of Dubai.
Check out Dubai Old Town tours and activities
7. Madinat Jumeirah and Burj al Arab
One of the prettiest places we visited was Madinat Jumeirah resort, a modern take on a traditional Arabian town, complete with canals, wind towers, and souk-style shops.
It’s such a peaceful, beautiful spot to walk around, and the whole area is packed with restaurants, cafes, and stunning photo ops.
The views of the Burj Al Arab from here are amazing—especially at night, when it’s all lit up.
A great tip: grab a table at Costa Coffee inside Madinat—it has one of the best views of the Burj Al Arab, and it’s surprisingly affordable compared to other spots around.
You can also take a little abra ride through the canals, shop for souvenirs at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, or just sit and enjoy the vibe.
Prices are a bit higher here overall, but the atmosphere makes it totally worth it—this is one of those places where you really feel the blend of old-meets-modern Dubai.
Explore Madinat Jumeirah tours and experiences
8. Rooftop Bars & AURA Skypool Experience
If you love a good view with your drink or dinner, Dubai’s rooftop bars won’t disappoint.
The city has some incredible spots where you can enjoy skyline views, creative cocktails, and great vibes—especially after sunset.
We had dinner at Level 43 Sky Lounge, which sits on the 43rd floor of a hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road, and the view was absolutely spectacular—panoramic views of the Burj Khalifa, Downtown, and beyond!
Other popular rooftops include Ce La Vi (right by Burj Khalifa), Treehouse at the Taj Dubai (with views of Downtown) and Mercury Lounge at Four Seasons Jumeirah (Palm Jumeirah).
But the absolute highlight for us was the AURA Skypool.
Located on the 50th floor of The Palm Tower, it’s home to the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool—and yes, it’s as amazing as it sounds!
You absolutely must book in advance (we booked ours nearly two months ahead!) and choose from different packages based on the time of day and your seating row.
We did the Lunch in the Sky package first, which included a delicious 3-course meal, and then we came back in the evening for the pool experience, and it was next-level—floating in the infinity pool at night with views of the city lights was pure magic!
For full details, check the official website—but if you’re planning one splurge-worthy experience in Dubai, this should be it.
Check out Dubai rooftop dining experiences
9. Dubai Beaches & Beach Clubs
Dubai has some beautiful beaches—clean, sandy, well-maintained, and with great views of the city skyline.
We visited Kite Beach, a popular public beach with a relaxed vibe and lots of food trucks and cafes nearby.
The water was a bit cold and wavy when we went, but I think we just caught it on an off day.
One thing to note: sunbeds are expensive—we paid around AED 130 per person, which felt a bit much for a public beach. If you’re on a budget, you can always bring your own umbrella and towel, and enjoy the beach for free.
We didn’t have time to check out the private beach clubs on this trip, but next time, we’ll definitely try some!
Dubai has some amazing options like Zero Gravity, Nikki Beach, White Beach at Atlantis, and DRIFT at One&Only Royal Mirage. They usually offer day passes, which can be pricey, but you get access to pools, beach lounges, and a lively atmosphere.
Ladies’ Day deals are a great way to save—many clubs offer special discounts (or even free entry with drinks) on certain weekdays, so it’s worth checking ahead.
The easiest way to check deals or make reservations is to look up the clubs on Instagram—they usually post all the latest offers and updates there.
10. Museum of The Future
One place we didn’t manage to visit this time was the Museum of the Future—there was just no way to squeeze everything into one week!
But based on everything I’ve heard from friends and read online, it’s supposed to be an incredible, one-of-a-kind experience.
The building itself is already a reason to go—it’s this huge, futuristic structure covered in Arabic calligraphy and impossible to miss when you’re driving down Sheikh Zayed Road.
Inside, the museum focuses on innovation, space, AI, and future technology, with immersive exhibits and next-level design.
People say it’s super interactive and thought-provoking. Just a heads up—you need to book your tickets in advance, as it often sells out days ahead. Definitely something I’ll prioritize next time!
11. Dubai Desert Safari
A desert safari is one of those must-try experiences when visiting Dubai! It’s usually a half-day tour, starting in the afternoon and ending after sunset, and it gives you a totally different perspective of the region.
They pick you up and drive you out into the desert, where you can choose to do optional ATV or UTV rides—we skipped those because they seemed a bit overpriced and honestly not that exciting.
The real fun started with the dune bashing—racing over the sand dunes in a 4×4 was spectacular and so much fun!
We also tried sand surfing, which was super cool (and a bit harder than it looks). Afterward, we were taken to a desert camp for dinner and live entertainment under the stars.
Camel rides were available, but I personally chose not to do it—I really don’t support the use of animals for tourist photos, especially when it’s clear they’re not well-treated.
Insider tip: if you’re prone to motion sickness, definitely take a pill before the dune bashing—it gets bumpy! And bring a scarf or something to cover your face—the sand and wind can be intense at times.
Overall, the experience was amazing, and watching the sunset over the dunes was something I’ll never forget!
12. Day Trip to Abu Dhabi
During our week in Dubai, we decided to take a day trip to Abu Dhabi to get a quick overview of the city.
We booked a tour through Viator, and it turned out to be a fantastic way to experience the capital’s highlights in a short time.
The standout of the trip was undoubtedly the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This architectural masterpiece is one of the world’s largest mosques and can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers.
Its design blends Mameluke, Ottoman, and Fatimid styles, and creates a stunning homage to Islamic architecture.
A strict dress code applies: both men and women must wear long, loose-fitting clothing, and women must cover their hair with a headscarf. No transparent or tight clothes are allowed.
If needed, you can buy (there’s no option to rent like before!) an abaya and headscarf in the mall next to the mosque—prices range from AED 45 to AED 150.
After the mosque, we made a stop at the Emirates Palace, a symbol of luxury and opulence in Abu Dhabi.
Fans of “Sex and the City 2” might recognize this iconic hotel from the film. 🙂
The grandeur of the palace, with its lavish interiors and sprawling gardens, was truly impressive. The best photos are taken right in front of the palace—don’t miss it!
Next, we visited the Heritage Village, a reconstructed traditional oasis village that offers a glimpse into the emirate’s past.
Situated near Marina Mall, the village features an old-world souk, a mosque, and a camp modeled on life in pre-modern UAE.
From here, we enjoyed a beautiful view of Corniche Beach, with its pristine shoreline set against the city’s modern skyline.
We also stopped at Yas Mall, adjacent to the famous Ferrari World. While we didn’t have time to explore the amusement park, the mall itself was expansive and offered a variety of shopping and dining options.
Another stop was the Dates Market, where vendors showcased a vast array of dates and related products. While the selection was extensive, the market itself felt like a standard marketplace and didn’t leave a lasting impression.
Finally, we visited a carpet shop, where we learned about the intricate art of carpet weaving and had the opportunity to view and purchase a variety of handcrafted carpets.
Overall, the day trip provided a comprehensive snapshot of Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural heritage and modern developments.
It’s a journey I’d recommend to anyone looking to experience the diverse facets of the UAE’s capital.
Other Great Attractions to Visit in Dubai
If you have more time or want to explore beyond the main highlights, here are a few more must-see places in Dubai that are definitely worth adding to your list:
1. Dubai Frame
Located in Zabeel Park, the Dubai Frame is a massive golden structure shaped like—yes, a giant picture frame.
You can go up to the top for panoramic views of Old Dubai on one side and the modern skyline on the other. It’s a fun and unique way to see how the city has grown.
2. The Lost Chambers Aquarium (Atlantis, The Palm)
This underwater world is located inside Atlantis, The Palm and features tunnels, glass chambers, and themed areas inspired by the lost city of Atlantis.
It’s beautifully done, and especially fun for families or marine life lovers. It’s a bit pricey, so consider combining it with other Atlantis experiences.
3. Green Planet
Green Planet is an indoor tropical rainforest located in City Walk and is home to over 3,000 plants, animals, and birds.
You walk through different layers of the rainforest, and if you’re lucky, you’ll spot sloths, parrots, or even reptiles up close.
It’s a great indoor option, especially if you’re traveling with kids.
4. Al Seef District
Al Seef is a newer development built to look like an old Emirati town along the Dubai Creek. It blends traditional architecture with modern shops and restaurants, making it a peaceful spot for a stroll, photos, or dining by the water.
5. IMG Worlds of Adventure
This is Dubai’s largest indoor theme park, with zones based on Marvel, Cartoon Network, dinosaurs, and more.
IMG Worlds of Adventure is great for families or thrill-seekers who want to escape the heat for a few hours.
6. Museum of Illusions
Located in Al Seef, this is a fun and quirky place with brain-teasing rooms, trick mirrors, and optical illusions. It’s not huge, but it makes for a cool hour-long stop and some fun photos.
7. Dubai Opera
If you’re into shows, concerts, or musicals, check out the Dubai Opera in Downtown. The building itself is stunning and they host everything from ballet to live comedy and international performances.
Final Thoughts
Dubai truly blew me away with its mix of futuristic architecture, cultural gems, luxury experiences, and yet traditional vibe.
Whether you’re cruising from Dubai or just visiting for a few days, this city has something for everyone—you just need a plan to make the most of your time.
I hope this guide helps you get inspired, stay organized, and enjoy every moment of your Dubai adventure. And trust me… you’ll already be planning your next trip before you leave! 🙂
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