Hey there travel enthusiasts and welcome to my post where we will discover 10 ways to spend one day in Dubai. Now, we all know the joys that travel can bring, from visiting far off places, experiencing different cultures and of course, all the new foods. But there is also a downside, – that dreaded day to ‘waste’ in a city whilst on a layover or waiting for a midnight flight.
So if you are like me (as I live in Australia, all outgoing flights seems to leave late at night), there has been many a day where you need to find something to do that is enjoyable, but doesn’t take too much time – or cost too much money.
So if you have a day to kill in Dubai, here are 10 things you can do to pass the time in an enjoyable way. Let’s check them out…
- XVA Art Hotel
- Dubai Mall
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
- Dubai Creek
- Dubai Museum
- Burj Khalifa
- Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
- Dubai Spice Souq
- Desert Safari
- Jumeirah Beach
How to Spend One Day in Dubai
Dubai, an opulent oasis in the United Arab Emirates, is a mesmerizing fusion of modernity and tradition. Famous for its towering skyscrapers, luxurious shopping malls, man-made islands and a rich tapestry of cultures from around the world, Dubai offers an amazing array of options to suit every taste.
So to help you out here are 10 unforgettable ways to spend one day in Dubai.
1. XVA Art Hotel
XVA Art Hotel in Dubai is a unique destination that promises an exceptional start to your day. Nestled within the captivating Al Fahidi Historical District, this boutique hotel and art gallery, formerly a traditional Arabian home, offers an unforgettable breakfast experience at XVA Cafe.
As you dine, you’ll be surrounded by the charm of this historical district with its wind towers and courtyards creating an enchanting atmosphere. After your meal, take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the world of contemporary Middle Eastern art showcased within the cafe’s cozy exhibition spaces.
Once you’ve explored the art, don’t miss the chance to head up to the hotel’s rooftop as well. From there, you can gaze down at the intricate and labyrinthine streets below, allowing you to truly appreciate the beauty and history of Dubai’s Al Fahidi Historical District. XVA Art Hotel offers a captivating blend of culture, art and history, making it the ideal starting point for a perfect day in Dubai.
2. Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall, located at the vibrant heart of Downtown Dubai, stands as the world’s most frequented retail and lifestyle destination, drawing in over 100 million visitors each year.
This remarkable mall offers an unparalleled shopping and entertainment experience, boasting more than 1,200 retail outlets including renowned department stores like Galeries Lafayette and Bloomingdale’s. Beyond shopping, Dubai Mall boasts an impressive selection of over 200 international dining options and a plethora of entertainment and leisure attractions for families.
Fashion Avenue, a section within the mall, treats visitors to over 150 luxury shopping and dining experiences. With its stunning architecture, captivating art and stylish interiors, Fashion Avenue stands as the Middle East’s pinnacle of luxury shopping.
Adjacent to Dubai Mall, you’ll find Souk Al Bahar, a vibrant Arabesque marketplace. With over 100 shops and 22 restaurants, cafés and lounges, it seamlessly blends tradition and modernity. Souk Al Bahar also hosts Time Out Market Dubai, curated by the city’s top editors and showcasing 17 exceptional local chefs and restaurateurs.
And finally, for an aquatic adventure you can explore Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, also located within the mall. Home to thousands of aquatic animals and over 140 marine species, it features a mesmerizing 270-degree walk-through tunnel. The highlight is a 10-million-liter tank housing more than 400 sharks and rays, offering a thrilling experience for visitors of all ages.
3. Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
This historical district preserves much of Dubai’s original infrastructure, allowing you to experience the past in its authenticity. The iconic wind towers, constructed from materials like sandstone, teak, gypsum, palm wood and sandalwood are just a glimpse into the district’s history where every alley, winding pathway and airy tower here carries stories from a bygone era before the formation of the seven emirates.
As you explore the meandering streets of Al Fahidi, you’ll encounter a wide range of cultural activities, museums, art galleries, special events and opportunities to savor traditional food.
A great starting point is the Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). Here, you can embark on a culturally immersive tour of the district, gaining insights into the customs and traditions of the region. Additionally, the Coins Museum, a fascinating attraction within the neighborhood, displays over 470 rare coins and sheds light on the monetary systems of the British Empire, India and the countries in the region before gaining independence.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood is a free attraction, making it accessible to all who wish to delve into the cultural and traditional facets of Dubai.
4. Dubai Creek
Dubai Creek is a vibrant and enjoyable waterway in Dubai that offers a range of activities both along its banks and on its gentle waters. On the creek’s edges, you’ll discover an array of picturesque restaurants however if you prefer not to spend, you can simply relish the breathtaking views while strolling along the well-maintained walkways.
A must-do when visiting Dubai Creek is taking an abra ride. It’s one of the most affordable attractions in the city and it provides a unique way to traverse the water and explore the features on the opposite side. Dubai Creek is conveniently located east of the city center and west of Dubai Festival City.
As you explore the area, you’ll come across numerous stalls where you can test your bargaining skills for items like perfumes, jewelry and Arabian coffee. There are also textile souqs offering a variety of fabrics and at night, these souqs are illuminated by traditional lamps, enhancing the charm of the surroundings.
5. Dubai Museum
The Dubai Museum is a popular attraction located in the historic Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest building in Dubai, dating back to 1787. This museum, which opened its doors in 1971, offers a fascinating journey into the rich history of Dubai long before the era of oil discovery.
Inside the museum, you’ll discover a treasure trove of knowledge and artifacts, some of which date as far back as 3000 BC including old musical instruments, lifelike mannequin displays depicting historic food stalls and pearl merchants.
Entry to the Dubai Museum at Al Fahidi Fort is affordably priced at AED 3 (Approx. USD$0.80) for adults and AED 1 for children (under the age of 6). Tourist guidance services are also available at no extra cost, providing valuable insights into the exhibits as well.
6. Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa, an iconic architectural marvel, is the tallest building in the world and can be seen from almost anywhere in Dubai. If you’re not afraid of heights, you can take an elevator ride to the upper floors of the Burj Khalifa to enjoy breathtaking views of Dubai. The ticket prices vary depending on how high up you want to go.
Here are the Burj Khalifa ticket options:
- Level 124: Experience a thrilling ride on the world’s fastest double-deck elevators, traveling at 10 meters per second. Use high-powered telescopes to get a closer look at the world below or step out onto the public outdoor observation terrace and admire the ever-expanding skyline.
- Level 125: At 456 meters above ground, Level 125 offers a spacious deck adorned with Arabic mashrabiya for stunning 360-degree views. Capture your Burj Khalifa moments with green screen photography, combining reality and special effects or take a virtual reality journey to the pinnacle of the Burj Khalifa. Experience the thrill of standing on an inspired glass floor, where you can feel the glass crack beneath your feet as you explore the lofty heights from 456 meters in the air.
At the Top, Burj Khalifa SKY (Level 148)
- Enjoy a personalized tour guided by a Guest Ambassador.
- Step out onto the world’s highest observation deck with an outdoor terrace located at a staggering 555 meters above ground.
- Relax and refresh yourself with signature refreshments at the SKY lounge.
Whether you choose to admire Dubai’s skyline from Level 124 and 125 or venture higher to the SKY level, the Burj Khalifa offers an unforgettable experience that allows you to witness the city from unparalleled heights.
7. Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
Ras Al Khor Sanctuary, often abbreviated as RAKWS, is a wetland reserve situated in the Ras Al Khor community of Dubai. This sanctuary serves as a habitat for a diverse range of wildlife including mammals, crustaceans, birds, fish and reptiles. While the sanctuary is most famous for its flamingos, you can also spot numerous other species such as reef herons, black-winged stilts, ospreys, sandpipers, egrets, kingfishers, black-tailed godwits, Eurasian spoonbills, sand racers and horned vipers, among others.
In addition to its remarkable fauna, Ras Al Khor Sanctuary hosts various plant species that play a crucial role in maintaining the ecological balance of the area. Common reed, Bean caper,and strings of the bead are among the prevalent plants in this wildlife reserve within the city.
Here are some key highlights of Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary:
- Flamingos: The sanctuary is renowned for its pink-beaked and long-necked flamingos. During the winter season, these birds migrate to the sanctuary from cooler regions, taking advantage of the natural resources available in the wetland.
- Ferruginous Duck: A rich rusty brown duck with a distinctive patch under its tail, often seen fluttering its wings and swimming with ducklings in the natural ponds within the sanctuary.
- Ethiopian Hedgehog: This fluffy little hedgehog shares its habitat with other hedgehog counterparts within the sanctuary.
- Blue Swimming Crab: A powerful swimmer with a striking blue color and distinctive shape, the blue swimming crab is an intriguing sight.
- Mozambique Tilapia: Thriving in fast-flowing waters and primarily feeding on algae, the Mozambique Tilapia is a common resident of the sanctuary.
- Tigerfish: A legendary and formidable aquatic creature, the Tigerfish can be spotted gliding gracefully in the serene lakes of the sanctuary.
- Blue-Headed Agama: This blue-headed reptile, known as Agama, is a significant part of Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary in Dubai.
- Fringe-Toed Lizard: With fringe-like scales on their hind toes, these lizards inhabit the pristine dunes of the sanctuary.
- Mangroves: Mangroves form a significant portion of the sanctuary and serve as a vital nesting ground for various marine creatures, including crabs, fish, insects, shrimps, prawns, mollusks and bristle worms. These carbon-rich mangroves offer a unique ecosystem to explore during your visit to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary.
Entry to Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is free, making it an accessible and fascinating destination for nature enthusiasts and wildlife lovers in Dubai.
8. Dubai Spice Souq
Dubai’s Spice Souk is a captivating and vibrant sensory experience that takes you on a journey through the world of flavors and aromas. Nestled in Dubai’s heritage area, this traditional spice market offers a glimpse into the past while tantalizing your senses.
As you step into the Spice Souk, you’ll be immersed in a world of colors and scents as aromatic herbs and spices spill from large baskets at every corner, creating a visual and olfactory feast. Spices are available for purchase both by weight and in pre-packaged packets. Similar to other bustling souks, haggling is expected and buying in bulk quantities can often save you money.
Engage with knowledgeable vendors who are eager to share their expertise and provide ideas on how to incorporate these exotic spices into your culinary adventures. Some spices may offer rich and bold flavors, while others are light, airy and sweet.
You’ll also find an extensive selection of fragrant teas from around the world, offering a diverse array of flavors and aromas to explore as well.
9. Desert Safari
A Desert Safari in Dubai is all about immersing yourself in the vast and awe-inspiring desert landscape of the UAE. It’s a thrilling adventure that allows you to experience one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the city.
When you choose a Desert Safari with Desert Safari Dubai, you can expect a highlights such as witnessing the breathtaking orange sunset over the desert, creating a mesmerizing backdrop to your adventure.
The tour operator offers various packages and one of the most popular options takes you to Lahbab, where you’ll encounter ‘Big Red.’ This is Dubai’s tallest sand dune, known for its striking color and impressive size.
For those who prefer the morning safari, you’ll have the chance to try sandboarding down the dunes and witness the stunning sunrise that bathes the desert landscape in golden hues.
Camel riding is another classic experience that allows you to explore the desert just like the region’s ancient inhabitants did for centuries. It’s a peaceful and immersive way to connect with the desert’s natural beauty.
10. Jumeirah Beach
Jumeirah Beach boasts pristine shores with clean, fine white sand, making it perfect for sunbathing. The ocean’s light green waters are inviting and relatively free from shells or rocks that might disrupt your experience. While the sand can get quite hot, snorkeling and swimming are popular activities here, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty of the underwater world.
The area also offers a safe and enjoyable swimming experience, thanks to vigilant lifeguards stationed at regular 50-meter intervals. To ensure the safety of swimmers, the swimming area is also enclosed by protective nets.
As you relax on the sand, you can even catch a glimpse of the iconic Burj Khalifa, which stands tall over the bustling metropolis. What sets Jumeirah Beach apart however is its convenient proximity to a variety of restaurants. Whether you’re craving local flavors or international cuisine, you’ll find something to satisfy your palate nearby.
It’s important to note however that Jumeirah Beach has public access areas that lack facilities. The other sections of the beach are reserved for hotel guests; however, individuals can purchase tickets at these hotels to enjoy the private beaches. There are specific beach rules in place, rigorously enforced by patrolling police, ensuring a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.
Check out these: 10 Luxury Destinations to Experience in Your Lifetime
How to Get Around Dubai
As you spend your day in Dubai, you will probably need some help in moving around. Some good options here include:
Taxi
Getting around Dubai via taxi or private car is a breeze, with an abundance of taxis readily available. Many tourists consider this the best and most convenient way to navigate the city. Most taxis in Dubai are operated by the government, although a few private companies offer alternative services.
All taxis operate on a metered basis, with fares determined by distance traveled. To ensure a fair fare, simply request your driver to activate the meter if it’s not already running. Licensed taxis in Dubai are easily identifiable by their tan color with red or pink roofs; the ones with pink roofs are specifically designated for women and families as well, providing a safe and comfortable travel option for them.
Sightseeing Bus
While it may not be your primary means of transportation, exploring Dubai via the sightseeing bus offers an incredible blend of convenience and immersive tour experiences. The open-deck Hop On Hop Off tour, operated by Big Bus Dubai, not only serves as a practical mode of transit but also provides a delightful and informative journey.
As you traverse the city on this bus, you’ll have the opportunity to marvel at renowned landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, Atlantis The Palm, the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain and many more, making your exploration of Dubai both practical and memorable.
Metro
In contrast to many cities of similar size and prominence boasting extensive metro or subway systems like London, New York or Paris, Dubai stands out by operating just two metro lines to cater to its residents and visitors. With a network encompassing over 45 stations, The Metro efficiently connects to the most popular tourist destinations across Dubai.
Your Metro fare is contingent on both the zone you’re journeying within and the distance you cover. Conveniently, fares can be acquired and stored on Nol Cards, which can also be used to pay for RTA parking. Passengers have the flexibility to purchase single or multiple travel tickets to suit their needs.
Trains operate with a frequency of approximately 10 minutes during off-peak hours, ensuring efficient transport, and even more frequently during rush hour, making it a reliable and timely mode of transit within the city.
Tram
The Dubai Tram stands as a pinnacle of safety and efficiency within the world of public transport. It plays a vital role in Dubai’s extensive transportation network, seamlessly connecting the Dubai Metro and the Palm Monorail along the scenic Al Sufouh Road and Jumeirah Beach Road.
What sets the Dubai Tram apart is its groundbreaking design—it’s the first tramway project outside Europe to utilize a ground-based electric supply system, eliminating the need for unsightly catenary cables. Moreover, it proudly holds the title of the world’s inaugural tramway to implement Platform Screen Doors in passenger stations, perfectly synchronized with the tram’s doors, ensuring the utmost convenience, safety and security for passengers while safeguarding the interior’s climate from external weather conditions.
This modern and fully automated rail system offers an array of user-friendly features including Wi-Fi access throughout the tram network, emergency call boxes in each train and station, comprehensive mobile phone coverage, an integrated radio system connecting the tram with emergency services and a dedicated Tram Police force, ensuring a safe and pleasant commuting experience for all.
Bike
Dubai is steadily evolving into a bike-friendly city, making cycling an excellent way to explore its stunning landscapes and iconic landmarks. Whether you’re drawn to the modern marvels or the captivating sand dunes, biking offers an immersive experience to tick off your Dubai bucket list.
Securing a bike is a hassle-free endeavor with public bike rental stations conveniently scattered across numerous popular tourist destinations, ensuring you can effortlessly embark on your two-wheeled adventure through this dynamic city.
Conclusion
And there they are, my tips for spending a day in Dubai. I would be pleased to know how this article helped you and as usual, let me know of your experiences here.
Also, please do not hesitate to comment below if you have any questions, concerns, or corrections, or would like me to check anything else out for you.
Until next time.
Have fun
Paul
