Guide to Jumeirah, Dubai
Big and bold in so many ways, Jumeirah is a coastal triple threat, as rich in coastal appeal as it is fine food and fabulous tourist draw cards that connect the old and the new.
Jumeirah is perhaps best described as the Malibu of the Middle East. Not only does its 5.1-mile-long coastal pathway draw crowds of dedicated walkers, joggers and cyclists to its shores every day, the neighborhood is an affluent one. This is a haven of well-to-do locals who live it up beachside in their elaborately furnished and beautifully positioned low-rise residential villas. This exclusive neighborhood is just a mile to the south of Dubai Creek and connects the northern suburbs with those south of the city. Jumeirah Beach Road is the main thoroughfare that connects Jumeirah 1, up near La Mer Beach, to Jumeirah 3 - Kite Beach territory. It’s a district that has plenty of tourist appeal thanks to its seriously cool calling cards. The iconic Burj Al Arab hotel may be visible right across the city, but as spectacular as it is any which way you look at it, this Grand Dame of the Dubai beachfront demands up-close-and-personal attention. Throw in Wild Wadi Water Park, Safa Park, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah Mosque, beaches, boutique malls, designer cafes and restaurants aplenty, and the five-star flavor of its hotel offerings and there is no doubting this hub is a must to explore, no maybes about it.
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Getting to jumeirah.
Unlike many of the city’s other districts, Jumeirah is not serviced by the metro. There are a number of public buses that do, but it is best to check with your hotel as to the routes that best suit your travels to and from the hotel.
It is possible to catch a bus from the airport but with luggage in tow, that can be a slog, especially after a long-haul flight. My suggestion would be a cab from the airport, which will cost you about AED 70 and take about 25 minutes (rideshare is not available from the airport).
You may be able to catch the Canal ferry service from other parts of the city to the Jumeira Marine Transport Station within Jumeirah 2, but you’ll need to check out the RTA website.
Wild Wadi Waterpark
Nestled between the Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach hotel, Wild Wadi guarantees a fun day for all. Based around Arabian folklore character Juha, this aqua adventure park is a great way to beat the heat and entertain the kids, big or small.
While there is no dress code as such, wearing transparent bikinis, heavy jewelry, or clothing with metal buttons is forbidden.
Give all 30 of the rides a go, or choose your favorites and slide to your heart’s content. If you get peckish in between wave pools and tube rides from great heights, there are hot dogs, burgers, salads and refreshing drinks to keep your energy levels up. If by chance you forget your togs or want to buy a towel, the retail outlets will have you covered.
Upon entry you’ll be given a magnetic wristband, it operates your locker and acts as a cashcard for purchasing food and drinks throughout the day. Entry costs from AED 260 and the park is operational from 10am to 6pm Wednesday to Monday (closed Tuesdays). If you’re staying at one of the neighboring hotels, it’s likely you’ll get a discount to the park, ask the concierge.
Majlis Ghorfat Umm Al Sheif
In a Dubai that is today known for its leading architecture and sprawling bigger than Ben Hur attractions, this landmark is a timely reminder of how much the emirate has grown. Established in 1955 as the summer house Sheik Rashid bin Saeed would call home, this quaint residence is one of Jumeirah’s most precious historical monuments.
Tourists and locals are invited to visit Majlis Ghorfat Umm Al Sheif Monday to Friday between 7.30am and 3.30pm (closed on Saturdays and Sundays). This is a place where the future of the city was often a topic of conversation.
When you’re in its confines as a visitor this many years on, you can’t help but admire the solid structure and old-fashioned Arabian garden enclosure.
Burj Al Arab
At 321m tall, this so-called Jewel of Jumeirah is the epitome of Arabian luxury. Designed to reflect the floating sail of an Arabian Dhow boat, the opulent 202-room establishment that stands proudly on the shores of the Persian Gulf is laden with 1,790 sq m of gold leaf. Guests are afforded Hermes bathroom accessories and each of the 56 floors has its own reception desk.
This icon of the Dubai landscape has welcomed some serious A-list guests including Kendall Jenner and Selena Gomez over the years, and who could forget the tennis match on the helipad (28 floors up) between Andre Agassi and Pete Sampras in 2005 – now, that will go down in history as one of the greatest sporting stunts ever.
While most of us can’t afford to stay in a palace like this, it is possible to take a tour and you should. The 90-minute guided tours are eye-opening and Insta-worthy, with prices starting from AED 249. Book online at insideburjalarab.com
La Mer Dubai
This beachfront destination is a great spot for a leisurely afternoon or day soaking up the rays – there are cabanas and sun loungers to hire, towels if you need them, and plenty of white sand to sink your feet into. And let’s not overlook the hammocks that you can make use of too, ideal for an afternoon reading sesh.
The beach is brilliant and we all know how easy it is to laze around all day, but depending on the weather, you may prefer to check out the children’s play areas and even make a beeline for the Laguna water park, which has its own surf machine – WaveOz 180 FloRider.
Those with young children will likely prefer the relaxing, more mellow Lazy River adventure, but there is also a raft ride called Manta for the older kids. Back at the beach, there are jet-skis to hire and plenty of food and drink options and retail outlets to peruse For more check out www.lamerdubai.ae
A few blocks inland, this idyllic greenspace is as picturesque as it is refreshing. A haven of activity during the cooler months (November to March), this 64-hectare oasis is fringed with palm trees, and serves up skyline views embellished with green.
Put down a picnic rug and just be for a while, let the kids make the most of the many play areas, rent a bike for a couple of Dirhams, or fire up the barbecue. This is a tranquil, relaxed way to enjoy this piece of lush paradise in the middle of the desert.
Most travelers will agree we often pack so much into a trip we never make time for a relaxed day – if you are someone who does, put Safa Park on your list.
Jumeirah Mosque
Tours are held at 10am and 2pm daily (except Fridays). Make sure you arrive 30 minutes early to pre-register.
This mosque is the largest of Jumeirah’s mosques and what a presence it has. Three years in the making, it officially opened its doors in 1979. To this day, this white stone structure that is reflective of the Fatimid tradition of medieval times, continues to be one of the Emirates’ most loved Islamic structures.
What’s lovely about this mosque is that it is welcoming of everyone and all about educating tourists and allowing them to satisfy their cultural curiosities. Free to enter ordinarily, if you wish to join a guided tour, you’ll need to pay AED 25 for the privilege of the guide’s time and expertise.
Where to eat and drink
Visitors to Jumeirah will have their work cut out for them when it comes to deciding what and where to chow down. There is such a varied menu here that it’s sometimes hard to choose what you’ll go for and what you’re prepared to pass up during your stay.
The Jumeirah beachfront is full of great fine-dining restaurants and top-notch bars, thanks to the four Jumeirah hotels that line the shores.
Some of the best would have to be Zheng He (Chinese) at the Mina A’Salam property, Rockfish (Italian) at Al Naseem, and of course Pierchic, the Italian eatery that provides some of the finest food and pier-perfect views of the Burj Al Arab next door.
Jumeirah Beach Road is renowned for being one of the best food streets the city has to offer. Cafes like Tania’s Teahouse have made themselves at home within street-facing villas, while others are more like what you’re used to – dining outlets with a shop front and seating indoors and out.
Some of the cool establishments worth hitting up along this thoroughfare include Bikers Cafe – a themed restaurant with a motorsports/F1 vibe; The Surf Cafe; Saudi Kitchen; and Comptoir 102, a health-focused eatery that offers vegan and gluten free goodies, alongside furniture and fashion.
Another dining hotspot in these parts is Souk Madinat Jumeirah, which is connected to the Jumeirah hotel complex. Here, it’s as much about the atmosphere as the F&B offerings. Arrive in a traditional abra between resorts, and then dine out and admire the views or head inside and enjoy a cozy intimate meal in air-conditioned comfort.
Some of my suggestions include Folly by Nick and Scott, Trattoria Toscana, and even Trader Vic’s.
For aperitivos or post-dinner drinks, you can’t miss out on Shimmers at the Jumeirah Mina A ’Salam hotel – the views alone are worth the visit. Gilt, the gold-encrusted treasure within the Burj Al Arab hotel, is a sight for sore eyes and will have you believing you’re living a dream. Do keep an eye on your tab – if you don’t, your eyes may be watering by the time the evening’s over.
The LookUp Bar at the La Ville Hotel & Suites at City Walk draws the hip, young crowd and from the lofty heights it’s a great spot for selfies and kicking up your heels to the dance tunes.
Where to shop
There are a number of different shopping outlets within the Jumeirah neighborhood. Mercato Mall is one of the most popular, as it has more than 140 stores that cover international fashion brands including TopShop and Mango, to name just two. There’s also a cinema within the center and plenty of food and drink options to tap into while you’re doing the rounds. There’s a Spinneys supermarket for your everyday grocery needs and Fun City to keep the kids entertained.
Sunset Mall is the go-to in Jumeirah 3, named after the sunny vibe it emits. Spread over two levels, it is all about jewelry and fashion, perfumes, health and beauty, and electronics and toys.
Town Center Jumeirah is one of the oldest malls on the block and more focused on being a leisure / meeting spot, but it does have traditional Arab clothing stores, Paris Gallery and Damas Jewelry, along with a range of dining and food options.
In contrast, Box Park is one of the newest additions to the local shopping scene. Between Safa Park and City Walk, this is a unique fixture that is ‘out-of-the-box’. The stores here, whether they be food, fashion or design-focused, operate out of colorful shipping containers – some of the brands here you won’t find anywhere else. The mall spans 0.75 miles and guarantees some click-worthy content on socials. The closest metro station is Business Bay.
Where to stay
Some properties have complimentary beach shuttles for guests to use, so it’s worth checking into services your preferred hotels offer, as something like this may assist in reducing some of the costs.
Given the affluence of this area, there are plenty of luxury hotels to match – we’re talking The Mandarin Oriental Jumeira on Jumeirah Beach Road, Jumeirah Al Naseem, Jumeirah Beach Hotel, The Four Seasons, and at the top of the tree, the fanciful Burj Al Arab, which will set you back upwards of AED 2,203 per night. While most of the beachside properties are on the higher end of the rate scale, many do include discounted entry to local attractions.
If you don’t mind being a little bit further away from the beach, Jumeira Rotana, Jumeirah Emirates Towers, Roda Beach Resort and Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa aren’t as pricey. Rove La Mer Beach is one of the newer additions to the tourist accommodation scene, and is a great family-friendly option. Parking/Wi-Fi is free.
Who should stay here?
Those who want to be right in the action, have romance or a special occasion on their mind and don’t mind dropping some cash to make it memorable should stay in Jumeirah. This neighborhood is packed with attractions, and it’s within an arm’s reach of districts in the north and south worth exploring, but there is less of the budget accommodation than there is five-star. That being said, rates are often reduced in the summer, so do your research and compare seasons pricewise before making a final decision.
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7-Days in Dubai: Classic One Week Dubai Itinerary
What can you do in dubai in one week [+ more ideas if you have longer].
Dubai is a dazzling and eclectic city sitting on the azure waters of the Persian Gulf on the Arabian Peninsula.
Known for its steamy hot summers and incredible modern skyline to its vast plains of rolling desert dunes, is it possible to fit in everything this mega city has to offer into just 7 days in Dubai?
It’s tough, but we’re certainly willing to try!
We’ve set out for you below a fairly well-paced one-week plan that takes into account all the different aspects of Dubai, from the modern skyscrapers and architectural feats to more traditional parts of the city, shopping opportunities, desert tours and of course, ways to simply relax and soak up the year-round sunshine.
Things to Know Before Visiting Dubai
Transport in dubai for one week, day 1 – 7 day dubai itinerary: relax into dubai, day 2 – 7 day dubai itinerary: old meets new, day 3 – 7 day dubai itinerary: modern dubai, day 4 – 7 day dubai itinerary: beach & desert, day 5 – 7 day dubai itinerary: abu dhabi day trip, day 6 – 7 day dubai itinerary: dubai theme park day, day 7 – 7 day dubai itinerary: splurge on something unique, additional activities for your dubai itinerary, frequently asked questions about dubai itineraries.
This is a super detailed Dubai itinerary for 7 days, so do bookmark this page for later in your browser or save it to Pinterest
Before we dive into the juicy details of WHAT TO DO, make sure you’ve checked out our essential planning information too. We cover in much greater detail:
- Things to know before planning a visit to Dubai – Visas, laws, customs & religious aspects to be aware of.
- What to pack for Dubai – dress code advice and a comprehensive packing list for Dubai can be found here.
- The best places to stay in Dubai – let’s talk budget and location in more detail over here.
- Dubai dining guides – all our favourite places to eat, dining specialities, bars and special occasions.
- Best time to visit Dubai – don’t be caught out by the weather or religious events; here are the ideal times of year to visit Dubai.
- Take out travel insurance! We are in an ever-changing world at present; whilst Dubai remains open for business, don’t get caught short; make sure your trip is comprehensively insured.
Over the course of one week in Dubai using this itinerary, you will need to take a combination of taxis, the Metro and private tours.
We’ve given basic directions on the best way to get to each place by public transport, if possible, or where you may need a taxi to get door-to-door with ease. You can find our complete guide to Dubai Transport options here .
Metro: If you stay in Dubai for one week and want to use the Metro lines, it is recommended to get a Silver Nol and top it up with a 7-Day Pass (The card costs 25 AED with 19 AED in credit, then a regular weekly Metro pass is 110 AED). We explain all the fares in more detail here.
A note on taxis: In the hottest part of the year (i.e. about May to October!), be wary of how far you can walk during the day. Places may look relatively close and within walking distance on a map, but under the heat of the sun, a short taxi/Uber ride may very much be worth it (noting a minimum fare applies of 12 AED for taxis).
Hiring a car: Unless you are a super-confident driver or plan on taking several trips out of the city, you are best relying on taxis and tours for your out-of-town trips during a one-week stay in Dubai. You can learn more about self-driving in Dubai here, or if you’re still interested in renting a car in Dubai , check out how much it costs here:
What Can I Fit Into A Dubai Itinerary 7 Days?
With only 7 days in Dubai, you need to be careful with your time management and no doubt book a few activities in advance, especially if you’re visiting at peak tourism times.
When planning out your days, note that the weekend in Dubai is now Friday afternoon through Sunday (2.5-day weekends); these days are MUCH busier with local residents also out and about, especially Friday afternoons after prayer time .
We set out for you here a balanced itinerary for seeing everything that Dubai has to offer, but also included below is a table of additional activities that you can mix and match to your tastes.
For a comprehensive list of everything there is to see and do in Dubai, pop over here – we have 150+ ideas!.
Relax, unwind and get to know one of Dubai’s modern beachfront districts.
Whether you are staying in one of Dubai’s luxury beachfront hotels or not, with 7 days, there’s no need to rush into sightseeing day 1. Many hotels include their own amazing resort facilities, or head out to explore one of these beachfront areas on foot:
JBR, Bluewaters, Dubai Marina
A lot of first-timers find the area of JBR and Dubai Marina a great place to start. Familiarise yourself with The Walk & The Beach – catch those rays and shake off the jet lag.
If you’d like to stretch your legs further, take a walk over to the ultra-modern man-made island, Bluewaters Island , to dine and marvel at the Dubai skyline along Jumeirah Beach and perhaps add in a flight on Ain Dubai , the largest observation wheel in the world for spectacular city views [NB still “temporarily” closed in 2024].
You can easily spend a whole day in the JBR area between activities along the beach (inflatable water parks, splash pads, jet ski and flyboarding, Flying Cup sky-high dining – read more here! ) and onward for dinner in the Dubai Marina area or catch a dinner cruise .
Getting there: Jumeirah Beach Residence/Dubai Marina is the perfect place to stay for one week due to the high number of spacious hotel apartments, or by Metro take Red Line to DAMAC Properties or DMCC Metro Station
Lar Mer (Closed – To be replaced by J1 Beach in 2024)
Another ultra-modern beachfront area of the city to consider for easing into your first day in Dubai is La Mer. An eclectic mix of palm-tree-lined walkways, retail, dining & play opportunities. There’s even a mini water park here. As pretty at night as it is by day La Mer is a trendy new addition for families and singles alike to enjoy Dubai’s modern vibes.
If you don’t want to spend the whole day simply at the beach, La Mer sees you close to both the Jumeirah Mosque – the largest mosque in Dubai open to the public for daily tours – and Etihad Museum , telling the story of the country’s unification in 1971.
Getting there: No direct Metro stop (nearest is Financial Centre then a 10-minute taxi), or take bus 8, 9 or 88 along Jumeirah Beach Road
Rest up now, as we’ve now got some pretty busy, action-packed days ahead!
Step back into the Dubai of the past, from Bedouin roots to bustling Dubai Creek .
Your first day of real sightseeing needs to go back to the grassroots of what Dubai city is about; a busy trading port city based around Dubai Creek.
Get your bearings at Dubai Frame
Let’s start your exploration of Dubai by taking in the views from the Dubai Frame . Pretty much what it says – it’s a giant picture frame! One of the first tourist highlights you will capture coming from Dubai International Airport into the city.
You ascend up one side of the 150m high frame (48 floors) and then walk across the top. The see-through floored sky deck gives you fabulous views of Old Dubai, Dubai Creek to Sharjah and beyond in one direction, and the modern skyscrapers of Downtown Dubai in the other.
Learn more about visiting the Dubai Frame here | Buy tickets with PlatinumList
Getting there: Nearest Metro is Al Jafiliya for Zabeel Park but it’s a decent walk, you may prefer a taxi/Uber drop off
Wander Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood
This is the oldest part of Dubai city , a labyrinth of narrow laneways that date back to the 19th century. The area of Bur Dubai is protected so that the city’s heritage does not become lost forever under the sprawling skyscrapers. Most of the traditional sandy-coloured low-rise buildings are now galleries, museums and small cafes.
Within this area, you will find the Dubai Museum, housed within the Al Faihi Fort, which dates back to 1787. At only 3 AED you should definitely pop your head in for more insight into the country’s Bedouin past and the pre-oil era of Dubai. {CLOSED FOR RENOVATIONS SINCE 2020 – NO INDICATION OF REOPEN DATE YET}
There are many other Dubai museums to be discovered within the laneways; the Coffee Museum (entry fee 10 AED) is one of our favourites worth seeking out.
Getting there: Al Fahidi Bus Station or Al Fahidi Metro station
Lunch at Al Seef Waterfront
By now, you have most certainly worked up an appetite, so if you’ve not stopped for lunch in XVA Cafe or Arabian Tea House situated within Al Faihidi Historical Neighbourhood, now would be time to head to one of many restaurants in this waterfront development. Seamlessly blending old with new it’s directly across the street, next to the Al Faihidi Marine Transport Station.
Al Seef is set up like a traditional souk so you’ll be able to do your shopping here too. Kids may enjoy popping into the Museum of Illusions or having some fun with photos in the instagrammable laneways.
Cross Dubai Creek on an Abra
An absolute must for an authentic old Dubai experience! Whilst there are far more modern methods these days of crossing the city, a traditional abra from Bur Dubai to Deira at 1 AED per person is still a steal!
Explore the Traditional Deira Souks
Depending on the heat, you could spend several hours lost in the laneways of Deira, the most popular stops being the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk . It’s all open-air, so it can be heavy going and a bit of walking mid-afternoon in the hotter months.
You’ll find a few more museums in this area of the city, too, Naif Museum and Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili are worth seeking out for history lovers .
If you need to escape to airconditioning at this point, Al Ghurair Centre in Deira offers an indoor shopping option – a more modern mall you can still pick up cheap(er) clothing and electronics here before starting your evening exploration.
Take a food tour in Old Dubai
For the evening, it’s time to take in some local cuisines. Being the multicultural city that Dubai is, you can be sure many dishes are vying for attention as “local” cuisine, in addition to traditional Emirati or Bedouin-style dishes.
One of the most highly recommended food tours in Dubai is Frying Pan Adventures , who offer various options for small groups to have authentic experiences in the streets of Dubai. Or try this highly commended small group culture and food tour . Most guided tours start and end in Deira.
A boat cruise on Dubai Creek
If you didn’t head out on the water night one in Dubai Marina , try it on night two. Nightly dinner cruises on Dubai Creek will allow you to take on a new perspective of just how busy and bustling Dubai still is as a busy seaport.
An alternative is to hire a guide for Day 2 , you will get informative commentary along the way as well as help with transportation.
TIP: Whilst the dress code in Dubai is quite loose around the beach, heading to the older parts of town it’s definitely advisable and polite to cover up more – we talk more about what’s appropriate when here.
Explore around Downtown Dubai, from towering heights to mighty fountains and everything in between .
In complete contrast to Day 2, let’s take you over to the glimmering skyscrapers of Downtown Dubai and the ultra-modern side of the city.
Often touted as the biggest shopping mall in the world (though technically it’s not! ), there are a plethora of indoor experiences to have just inside Dubai Mall, other than shopping! Especially if you’re visiting in the summer, it’s easy to spend two days just exploring everything this mega mall has to offer.
Let’s be realistic, though and assume with half a day; you can explore one of:
- The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
- Play DXB (formerly VR Park)
There are plenty more things to see and do indoors and some just outside and on the roof – see the full list of Dubai Mall attractions here .
Getting there: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station on the Red Line Metro, then there’s an air-conditioned travellator connecting you to the entire surrounding area of Downtown
Scale the Burj Khalifa
It would be hard to set out a Dubai itinerary and not include THE most iconic building in the city – the world’s tallest building in the world, no less! Yes, you can travel to the observation deck of the building on the 124th and 125h floors ( extra packages take you to the 148th floor!), or even dine at At.mosphere restaurant and lounge on Level 122.
If you’re unsure what experience might suit you, head over to our complete visitor’s guide to visiting the Burj Khalifa , where we set out all your visiting options – no outside climbing permitted, Mission Impossible-style!
If there’s one part of your Dubai itinerary you simply must book in advance ; it’s the Burj Khalifa. Tickets at the door are extortionately more expensive and can sell out. Do allow a good 2 hours for queuing and having a good look around. Note sunset and sunrise slots (weekends only) cost more.
Souk Al Bahar
Another spot to explore nearby is Souk Al Bahar . Accessed over a pedestrian bridge from Dubai Mall, this modern market is made in the design of a traditional souk offering handicrafts through to fine dining and spectacular views over Burj Lake.
You can find a good selection of places to grab a drink and bite around downtown Dubai here .
Sky Views Dubai
A brand new alternative to scaling the Burj is to try Sky View Dubai . This sensational new experience is not for the fainthearted as you take a glass elevator to the 52nd floor of Sky Views Observatory above Downtown. Walk the 46m glass-floored walkway between two towers, then take a transparent slide-ride over the city!
The super brave may even want to take on Edge Walk for a hands-free leap of faith! Scale your way around the outside of the Address Sky View Hotel . Although not as high as the Burj Khalifa, we’d argue Sky View offers a more unique view of the city.
Evening in Downtown Dubai
There are several ways to continue enjoying Downtown Dubai well into the evening, its the hub of Dubai nightlife alongside JBR/Dubai Marina.
The Dubai Fountain show is one of the most popular free things to do in Dubai . Starting from 6:00 PM nightly, then every half hour, watch the fabulously choreographed light and sound show on Burj Lake, sitting at the foot of Burj Khalifa. Later in the evening, the Burj Khalifa also lights up for half-hourly shows.
For a close-up view of the fountain show, you can take an abra ride on the lake . Alternatively, our favourite is to pick out one of the restaurants with uninterrupted views in either Dubai Mall or Souk Al Bahar and dine whilst getting to see the show a few times over without the crowds.
If your trip happens to align with something you enjoy at Dubai Opera , this is another sensational Downtown Dubai experience to get glammed up for.
If concrete and modern Dubai is really not you, then head to the listing below of the best cultural activities to continue on a few more activities we couldn’t squeeze in Day 2. A day trip to the Heart of Sharjah may be preferable.
A day for sand and surf – dune surfing, that is!
One thing Dubai definitely does well, and in copious quantities, is sand!! So why not dedicate Day 4 to our two favourite Dubai activities, hitting the beach and hitting the desert?
If you’re not staying at a resort hotel, pick out one of Dubai’s popular beach clubs and enjoy the rays for a few hours with the comfort of a sunbed and table service. For more extreme adventures, you could add in a jet ski tour, or if you’ve not hit the waters yet, a boat cruise to see the unique Dubai skyline.
Dubai also has plenty of public beaches , some are completely free, and others have a small Dubai municipality charge but great facilities. Local favourites include Al Mamzar Park and Kite Beach has slightly bigger waves than others, or head to Sunset Beach for iconic views of the Burj Al Arab , the world’s most luxurious hotel.
Shopping alternative
If it’s getting hot out or you’d prefer a little retail therapy, spend the morning at Souk Madinat Jumeirah . Similar to Souk Al Bahar in Downtown, this is a modern souk (market) built in traditional style, with indoor and outdoor (seasonal) stalls and shops offering tourist tat to genuine souvenirs and a superb range of eateries.
Again, you can get some brilliant Burj Al Arab views here and even take an abra out on the waterways around the extravagant Jumeirah hotels (a bit more pricey than the 1 AED on Dubai Creek but an amazing backdrop!).
Getting there: Souk Madinat Jumeirah is not on the Metro, but you can get to the Mall of the Emirates and a short taxi from there, or stop at Internet City and then hop on Bus 88.
In the afternoon, get set for the Dubai desert. There are numerous tour operators who have camps set up in the dunes just outside of the city, as well as a select few operators in the protected Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve .
A typical desert safari trip in Dubai will include city pickups; then you’ll travel by 4×4 into the dunes, doing some dune bashing along the way before an offering of sand sports – pick from quad bikes, fat bikes , sandboarding, camel rides, henna painting, shisha then join a communal BBQ dinner.
Alternatively, if you are more interested in seeing the desert wildlife than the sand sports, opt for premium options offered by Platinum Heritage , a little more pricey but for smaller groups, a more genuine desert experience.
Getting there: No need to worry about your 4×4 skills, tour operators will pick you up from your hotel or a convenient city location
You can do day 4 in reverse too; If you take an early morning desert safari you can get out and beat the heat, then spend your afternoon and evening enjoying shopping, wandering the souk or a beach club afternoon with sundowners to finish.
If you are visiting in the peak of summer , you would likely need to scratch this outdoor day and replace it with some further activities from our indoor guide to Dubai eg, Ski Dubai or Green Planet
No trip to the UAE is complete without seeing the Capital, Abu Dhabi.
The most iconic of buildings to visit in Abu Dhabi is the simply stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque .
Whilst it is possible to squeeze in a trip to the Grand Mosque only on a half-day trip to Abu Dhabi – it’s less than 90 minutes on a tour coach Dubai to Abu Dhabi – you’d be doing yourself an injustice not to see more of the city.
Getting there: If you want to move at your own pace, then definitely hire a car for your Abu Dhabi day trip , but catching a tour is the easiest option – the big price differential is whether you join a shared tourist coach or take a private tour
We have more details here on the spectacular places in Abu Dhabi you can squeeze in on a one-day trip from Dubai – including the Louvre Museum and Qasr al Watan , the Presidential Palace (there’s even a free bus for these two top attractions!)
A longer itinerary would see at least 2 to 3 days spent in Abu Dhabi to capture the highlights of the capital properly.
If you are a theme park junkie, you may want to even stay overnight and enjoy Day 6 at the Yas Island theme parks , just as good (if not better!) than their Dubai counterparts – Yas Waterworld, Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi & Ferrari World.
Abu Dhabi is but one of the other 7 Emirates of the United Arab Emirates (albeit by far the largest in size and the richest in oil!). Dubai is quite central in the country, so it is a great base for exploring the rest of the Emirates. We have more ideas listed below for alternative or additional day trips from Dubai .
Where to stay in Abu Dhabi? For the Yas Island theme parks, definitely overnight in the brand new Hilton Yas Island . For views of the Grand Mosque, The Ritz-Carlton Abu Dhabi or Fairmont Bab Al Bahr on the Grand Canal are good choices closer to Dubai end of town.
Those staying longer in Abu Dhabi, pop on over to our Abu Dhabi Travel Planner website .
Thrill-seekers and adrenaline junkies will never be left disappointed in Dubai .
Now if you have littles travelling with you (or big kids at heart!), you may well need to move theme park day further up the itinerary or dedicate two full days.
There’s a superb selection of world-class theme parks to choose from in Dubai . If you’re visiting in the beautiful shoulder seasons (approximately March to May and October to November), our top pick would be one of the mega water parks – choose from Atlantis Aquaventure or Wild Wadi at Jumeirah .
(NB, if you stay at Atlantis the Palm or any of the Jumeirah hotels , your water park entry will be included!)
Over the cooler winter months of the year (December to February), Dubai Parks & Resorts is our top choice. Here you can choose between four connected theme parks (ideally, you can fit in two of these in a day – three at a squeeze):
- Legoland Dubai
- Legoland Dubai Water Park
- Bollywood Parks (Now closed but touted it will be replaced with Real Madrid World – a football theme park)
And if it’s the peak of summer, the top pick goes to IMG Worlds of Adventure – think Marvel characters to Cartoon Network-themed rides and activities. IMG is entirely indoors to beat the heat.
If theme parks really aren’t your thing, we strongly suggest checking our alternate suggestions for day trips & cultural activities you could add on below.
Getting there: The Theme Parks in Dubai are all quite spread out, Atlantis Aquaventure is on the outer crescent of Palm Jumeirah and Wild Wadi is close to Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Dubai Parks & Resorts is in Jebel Ali, beyond the end of the Metro and IMG Worlds of Adventure sits south of the city. In a group, it’s worth getting a taxi for this day
On your last day, it’s time to tick off anything you’re yet to see and do from our ideas above and engage in something uniquely Dubai.
Some top suggestions for “only in Dubai” experiences include:
- Enjoy a sunrise balloon ride over the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
- Try afternoon tea at the “7-star” Burj Al Arab
- Skydive over Palm Jumeirah
- Zipline across Dubai Marina
- Helicopter journey over the city
- Dine in the world’s highest restaurant
If you’ve not had the opportunity yet, find one of Dubai’s dramatic rooftop bars (seasonal) to finish off your incredible week in Dubai with dramatic views over the city skyline or the Arabian Gulf.
There was only so much we could fit in an initial 7-day itinerary!
If some of the above activities do not appeal, were out of your budget, or perhaps you’d like to add some additional days to make it a 10-day or two-week itinerary, here’s what you could look to add:
Additional family activities
- Admire the floral wonders at Dubai Miracle Garden (seasonal)
- Be enchanted by Dubai Garden Glow & Dinosaur Park (seasonal)
- Meet the animals at Dubai Safari Park
- Spend an evening at Global Village
- Zipline through the Ghaf forest at Aventura Parks
- Catch the nightly Imagine water show at Festival City or the fountain show at The Pointe
- Go bird spotting at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
See our complete guide to Dubai activities for kids here
Additional cultural activities
- More for museum and culture lovers, we highly recommend a day spent in the neighbouring emirate Sharjah
- Explore the Al Shindagha district , the heritage village and Saeed Al Maktoum House
- Spend half a day with the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding – cultural walks, meals and tours
- Visit the oasis city of Al Ain, with the UAE’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed oasis and beehive tombs, as well as the Al Ain Zoo and Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre , one of the best displays dating to pre-historic UAE
See our complete guide to exploring historical places in Dubai
Additional Dubai itinerary day trips
- Head over the mountains to the east coast and spend some time in Fujairah , including snorkelling and scuba diving opportunities
- Scale to the UAE’s tallest peak in Ras Al Khaimah and experience a modern pearl diving farm
- Cross the border into the remote Omani enclave of Musandam for a day of sailing, dolphin spotting, and snorkelling
- Check out the amazing outdoor adventures, hikes, and water sports on offer at Wadi Hub, Hatta
See our complete guide to Dubai day trips
Additional Adventure Activities
- Turn a desert safari into a night under the stars and overnight glamping experience
- Join a camp with a traditional early morning camel caravan experience
- Take on the world’s longest zipline in the Hajar Mountains
- Try flyboarding in the Arabian Gulf!
- Go cage diving with the sharks at Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
- Take on indoor skiing at Mall of the Emirates
See our complete guide to Dubai outdoor adventure activities
It really depends if you’re coming just to get a taster for future trips, a stopover on a long journey, or simply to relax in the sun. If you want to “see it all” and explore more of the UAE and the Arabian Peninsula, no, it’s not enough; we’d recommend two weeks to thoroughly cover the United Arab Emirates. 7 days will be a good sample though of everything the country has to offer but with plenty left to enjoy on future trips to Dubai.
Yes, in theory, you could squeeze in an exciting and action-packed trip to both cities in one week, but you will be exhausted and only scratch the surface. You can fit the very biggest highlights of Abu Dhabi into one day but realistically, give yourself 2 to 3 in Abu Dhabi and 7 or 8 in Dubai, 14 days if you really want to see the whole of the United Arab Emirates with a few break days built in.
It depends on what sort of budget you are operating at. We talk more about money matters here . If you consider a cheapish hotel room for two, close to the Metro can be obtained for around 200 AED, a day pass on the Metro 20 AED, meals, if you go cheap and cheerful, could boil down to 50-100 AED a day. So before your airfares and any fancy extras like waterpark days or desert tours, let’s say 300 AED per day or c 2000 AED for a week in Dubai ($545USD). It’s not the cheapest city, but there are ways you can save money, as we discuss in our budget guide to Dubai .
Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai
- Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Dubai , a handy guide on what to pack , and top tips for first-timers on the do’s and don’ts, laws, and customs to be aware of.
- Check out this incredible list of 150+ places you should visit when you’re in Dubai .
- Pick up a Dubai Pass from iVenture or a Go City Dubai Pass to save up to 50% on top Dubai attractions.
- Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !!!
- Discover the best areas to stay in Dubai , or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:
Take me back to the Dubai Travel Blog
Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links . Dubai Travel Planner
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So beautiful, subhan’Allah. The Masjid’s in Dubai are even more beautiful! 🙂
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Sights & Attractions
31 Amazing things to do in Dubai for the ultimate holiday
Sun, August 14, 2022
Tick off the city's top things to do and places to visit.
Burj Khalifa
Standing 828m high, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and one of Dubai's must-visit attractions. The majestic building is located in the heart of the city and is a hub of activity day and night. Just looking up in awe at the sheer scale of this magnificent structure is memorable in itself, but it's definitely worth venturing inside too. You can capture perfect views of the city from the observation deck at levels 124 and 125, or have a bite to eat in the At The Top Sky Lounge . For special occasions, treat yourself to a sunset session at The Lounge, Burj Khalifa , the highest lounge in the world at 585m.
Opening hours - At The Top: 8am - 12am, daily
Price - At The Top: from AED169
- 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai
The Dubai Fountain
Located at the base of Burj Khalifa is one of the world's largest choreographed fountain displays, where powerful jet streams soar as high as 150m in the air and sway in time to musical numbers. Stop by in the evening when displays begin at sundown and take place every 30 minutes, until the final song plays at 11pm. Diners can also sit back and enjoy the show at an array of restaurants at Dubai Mall or Souk Al Bahar , both commanding prime positions near the fountain arena.
Opening hours: 6pm - 11pm, daily
Price: free
- Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah is one of the largest manmade islands in the world and a triumph of human ingenuity. Locals and tourists alike flock to its vast array of high-end hotels – Waldorf Astoria, Fairmont, One&Only, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray and, perhaps most notably, Atlantis, The Palm . Getting here is simple, thanks to the monorail running down the 'trunk', which connects to the mainland's tram system.
- Palm Jumeirah - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Dubai Creek
- Baniyas Rd, Deira, Dubai
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Bur Dubai is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. Best seen on foot, this area offers nostalgic views of a bygone era with traditional windtowers and a maze of winding alleyways, positioned along the historic waterways of Dubai Creek. Visit Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) to appreciate local culture with Arabic classes, heritage tours and guided mosque visits. After exploring, take an atmospheric abra boat ride to the souks on the other side of the creek.
- Al Fahidi St, Al Souq Al Kabeer, Bur Dubai
The Dubai desert
Less than a 20 minute-drive from the modern streets of Downtown Dubai lies the mystique-filled Arabian desert. Go on a Dubai-style desert safari, complete with thrilling activities such as quad biking and sandboarding. Those looking for luxury can book a safari with leading tour companies Platinum Heritage and Arabian Adventures . From the unforgettable offroad drive to cultural fun with henna painting and camel rides, and a feast of local cuisine under the stars, it's an only-in-Dubai treat. Want to stay a little longer? Treat yourself to an unforgettable night amid the dunes at Al Maha Desert Resort & Spa .
- Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, Dubai-Al Ain Rd - Dubai
Dubai Mall is the world’s largest destination for shopping, entertainment and leisure, located next to the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Featuring over 1,200 retail stores, two major department stores and hundreds of food and beverage outlets, Dubai Mall covers more than 1 million sqm – an area equivalent to 200 football pitches. Even an entire day spent here is not enough to see it all. Along with its 1,200-plus shops and 150 restaurants, the venue is home to a range of other fun attractions.
Opening hours: 10am - 1am, daily, except Wednesday (closes at midnight)
- Financial Centre Road - Downtown Dubai
Skydive Dubai
If there's one thing every adventure-seeker must sign up for, it's a skydiving experience. Skydive Dubai provides tandem skydive opportunities, supervised by trained professionals. You'll have to book well in advance to secure a spot, but it's worth it as you dive through the clouds from 13,000 feet and take in views of the landmark Palm Jumeirah or rolling dunes of the desert. And you can keep reliving the epic experience thanks to perfectly-captured videos by the Skydive Dubai team. It's one for every braveheart's bucket list.
- Al Seyahi Street, Dubai Marina - Dubai
Madinat Jumeirah
Literally translated as 'City of Jumeirah', the Madinat Jumeirah complex is inspired by an ancient citadel. Housing luxury hotels and private enclaves designed to reflect traditional Arabian architecture, it's a great spot to indulge in a therapeutic day at the world-class Talise Spa , splurge on local trinkets and boutique brands at the Madinat Souk , or immerse yourself in the work of famous artists at the high-tech Theatre of Digital Art . And, with over 40 restaurants and lounges featuring cuisines from around the world, it's also an ideal place to refuel.
Opening hours & price: vary, depending on venues within the complex
- 6 King Salman Bin Abdulaziz Al Saud St - Dubai
Dubai Frame
Since opening in 2018, Dubai Frame has become a cultural landmark that connects the Dubai's past with its present and represents a remarkable engineering feat. Located within Dubai's famous Zabeel Park , this attraction lets you experience the transition between Old and New Dubai thanks to sweeping panoramic views of the city from 150m high. One of its striking features is the state-of-the-art clear glass bridge walkway, which connects parallel vertical towers so that, from the outside, the structure perfectly resembles a giant picture frame.
Opening hours: 9am - 9pm, daily
Price: from AED20
- Zabeel Park, Za'abeel 1 - Dubai
The aptly-named Kite Beach is the perfect place to test out your watersports skills , although there's plenty to do out of the water at this popular spot too. Grab a smoothie from one of the many open-air cafes and restaurants, watch bikers and skaters fly by at the skate park, or enjoy a game of volleyball with friends on the sand. With plenty of beach activities, plus an incredible view of Burj Al Arab in the distance, you can easily spend a whole day here.
Opening hours: 24 hours, daily, although sporting and dining venues at the beach have varying timings.
- Umm Suqeim, just off Jumeirah Beach Road
Dubai Water Canal
Dubai Water Canal is a 3.2-kilometre-long waterway extending from the Creek in Old Dubai through Business Bay before finding its way to the Arabian Gulf. With 80,000sqm of public space and facilities and a 12km cycling path, the Canal has become a popular visitor attraction. There are also five pedestrian bridges that snake their way across the iconic waterway, so it's the perfect spot to stroll and take in classic views of the city at its best. Nearby is the Al Habtoor City development, home to the thrilling La Perle by Dragone show, five-star hotels and an array of trendy restaurants.
- Dubai Water Canal - Al Safa - Dubai
If you'd like to shop, dine, watch a movie and swim in the sea all in one place, consider a trip to The Beach, opposite Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). With guest DJs playing on most weekends, a cinema and plenty of trendy boutiques , The Beach is always buzzing with activity. Take your pick from the range of dining options, try the exhilarating watersports on offer or just enjoy some relaxation time in a cabana with your favourite book. The Beach is also connected to the trendy new Bluewaters Island district by a pedestrian bridge.
Opening hours - F&B outlets: 10am - midnight, Saturday - Wednesday, extended to 1am on Thursday and Friday
- Opposite JBR, Dubai Marina - Dubai
City Walk offers European-style pedestrian streets alongside a host of shopping and entertainment options – perfect for a pleasant day out. Take a walk along tree-lined avenues with shops and restaurants and spot artwork etched by some of the world's finest urban artists . Afterwards, treat your family to an afternoon of fun and head over to The Green Planet to see real wildlife in an indoor tropical rainforest setting. You can also catch a concert, live sports or a comedy show at the nearby Coca-Cola Arena , the Middle East's largest indoor arena.
- Al Wasl and Al Safa Road Junction, Sheikh Zayed Rd - Al Wasl - Dubai
Dubai Miracle Garden
A world of floral wonder awaits you at Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest natural flower garden. The 72,000sqm park has an impressive line-up of famous buildings and structures completely transformed into colourful flower displays. You can immerse yourself among more than 50 million blooming flowers throughout the different exhibits. The nearby Dubai Butterfly Garden is also worth a trip. Here, children can explore over 15,000 species of butterflies whilst learning more about them in a fun setting.
Opening hours: 9am - 9pm on weekdays, extended until 10pm on Saturday and Sunday
Price: from AED60
- Al Barsha South 3, Dubailand Area, Dubai
Dubai Opera
Located in the Downtown district, Dubai Opera offers an enticing performing arts schedule from the likes of London’s West End and Manhattan’s Broadway. With views of The Dubai Fountain and located next to Burj Khalifa , the eye-catching exteriors are inspired by Arabian dhow ships while the stage area is designed to easily convert into three different event platforms: theatre, hall or concert hall. Want to know what's playing at Dubai Opera while you're holidaying in the city? Visit Dubai Calendar .
Opening hours: 10am - 9pm, daily (show timings may vary)
Price: from AED145
- Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid, Near Burj Khalifa, Downtown Dubai - Dubai
- Dubai Marina
A 130km drive south-east of Downtown Dubai is Hatta , a not-to-be-missed scenic getaway. In this mountain town you can try kayaking along the serene Hatta Lake, or traversing rocky mountains on foot with specially-crafted hiking experiences . Recent additions to the area include Hatta Dome Park , a glamping experience that takes advantage of Hatta’s mountainscape views and back-to-nature vibes, plus a chic lodge-style hotel and trailer parks. Indulge in a host of adventure activities such as zorbing, mountain biking and more at Hatta Wadi Hub. Don’t forget to pack your swimsuit, as the Hub is also home to Asia’s first ever water jump park, Hatta Drop-In.
- Hatta Wadi Hub, located off the Dubai-Hatta road
IMG Worlds of Adventure
Unlimited fun, excitement, speed and 5D entertainment – you can expect it all at IMG Worlds of Adventure. This enormous theme park is the same size as 28 football pitches put together. With the most up-to-date and exciting rides , IMG Worlds of Adventure brings your favourite characters to life. Give your little ones the best time with rides featuring Ben 10, Powerpuff Girls and LazyTown, while older kids can delve into the world of Spider-Man, Hulk, Iron Man and The Avengers.
Opening hours : noon - 10pm, Sunday to Thursday, extended to 11pm on the weekend
Price - general admission: AED345
- E311, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road - City of Arabia Dubai Land - United Arab Emirates
Dubai Parks and Resorts
Dubai Parks and Resorts adds to the city's reputation as an entertainment paradise. Children are bound to get excited in the labyrinth of magnificent theme parks, which includes Motiongate , Bollywood Parks and Legoland and Legoland Water Park . Adults can relax at the Riverland Boulevard , home to restaurants and a range of open-air entertainment. Don't want to leave? Check in to the luxury Polynesian-style hotel, The Lapita, or the region's first and only Legoland Hotel, both located within the theme park destination.
Opening hours: 10am - 11pm, daily
Price - One Park Pass: from AED295
- Sheikh Zayed Rd, Opposite Palm Jebel Ali, Dubai
The View at The Palm
Enjoy incomparable views of one of Dubai’s most talked about landmarks at The View at The Palm. Located 240m high, the observation deck presents never seen before 360-degree panoramas of Palm Jumeirah alongside the sparkling waters of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline in the distance. The View at The Palm is located on level 52 of The Palm Tower, which also houses a café, a creative exhibition that showcases the development of the island, interactive aquarium-themed tunnels and a gift shop.
Opening hours : 9am - 10pm, weekdays, extended to midnight on weekends
Price: from AED100
- The Palm Jumeirah - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Deep Dive Dubai
The latest addition to the city's thriving sports and adventure activities scene, Deep Dive Dubai is the place to be for all aqua enthusiasts . The recreational centre's 60.02m-deep pool is certified by Guinness World Records as the world's deepest swimming pool for diving. Aside from its remarkable depth, the pool features other unrivalled underwater additions, such as a 'sunken city', alongside year-round freediving and scuba diving courses and guided experiences.
Opening hours : 9am - 6pm, except on Friday (closed)
Price: from AED400
- Deep Dive Dubai, NAS Sports Complex, Dubai
Sky Views Dubai
Thrill-seekers can try a trio of epic experiences at Sky Views Dubai, perched 219.5m above ground on top of the Address Sky View hotel. The Glass Slide allows visitors to zoom down a transparent tunnel on the 53rd floor, while the Observatory features a glass elevator and bridge to further test your head for heights. Meanwhile, true risk-takers will look forward to the Edge Walk – as they dangle off the building's side while strapped to a safety harness. All three experiences allow participants to enjoy phenomenal views of Downtown Dubai's iconic landmarks, including the nearby Burj Khalifa .
Opening hours : 10am - 10pm, weekdays, extended to midnight on weekends
Price: from AED70
- Address Sky View hotel, Emaar Square Area, Downtown Dubai
Burj Al Arab
For the first time since its launch, Dubai's famed Burj Al Arab has opened its doors to visitors, granting access to the hotel's ultra-luxurious interiors on an immersive 90-minute tour. Not only will you get to explore the landmark’s gilded suites, and enjoy its incomparable views of the city , but you'll also uncover the hotel’s history and wealth of untold stories. You can also delve deeper and make the most of your experience with tour customisations.
Tour timings: 9:30am - 8:30pm, daily Price: from AED249
- Jumeirah Road - Umm Suqeim 3 - Dubai - United Arab Emirates
Museum of the Future
One of Dubai's most famous architectural landmarks , the Museum of the Future takes pride of place along the city's superhighway, Sheikh Zayed Road. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation, the museum explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using science and technology. Termed a 'living museum', it incorporates elements of traditional exhibitions, immersive theatre and themed attractions, so visitors can look beyond the present and towards the future's limitless possibilities.
Opening hours : 10am - 9:30pm, daily
Price: from AED149
- Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre - Dubai
Mohammed Bin Rashid Library
Built along the historic Dubai Creek and designed in the shape of a traditional Islamic lectern, the Mohammed Bin Rashid Library is the latest cultural hotspot to open its doors in the city. A landmark unique to Dubai, the library is the largest in the region and representative of its collective cultural wisdom, educational milestones and continued forays in research and academia. Aside from enjoying the remarkable architecture and exploring the library's nine levels, visitors can discover a fully digitalised laboratory and several specialised collections inside.
Opening hours : 9am - 9pm, daily, except on Friday (opens 2pm) and Sunday (closed)
Price: free
- Dubai Creek, Al Jaddaf
Serious foodies can’t possibly visit Dubai without making a stop at the MENA 50 Best Restaurants top spot, 3Fils. Its chic yet casual setting, coupled with calming harbourside views and a no-reservations policy, makes this one of Dubai's most unassumingly spectacular dining hotspots . Serving modern Asian cuisine, you’ll find tantalising dishes such as salmon carpaccio, wagyu sushi and fire-grilled octopus on the menu. Opening hours : noon - 11:30pm, daily
- Shop 2, Jumeirah Fishing Harbour 1, Al Urouba St, Jumeirah - Dubai
Aura Skypool
Unwind in the world's highest 360-degree swimming pool as you gaze out at landmarks including Burj Al Arab and Ain Dubai. Situated 200m above ground, AURA Skypool is the perfect place for an unforgettable swim. Visitors to the Palm Jumeirah venue can also relax in its chic lounge area and sample a menu filled with delicious sharing plates and Pan-Asian flavours . Standouts to try include the glazed miso salmon, chilli honey cauliflower popcorn and matcha tiramisu.
Opening hours : 10am - 7pm, daily
Price: from AED150
- The Palm Tower, 50th Floor, Palm Jumeirah
Prepare to be amazed by Dubai's first permanent show, which combines acting, acrobatics, aquatic feats and aerial stunts across an exhilarating 90 minutes. All the action takes place inside a tailor-made, 1,300-seat theatre in the heart of Al Habtoor City , featuring a high-tech ‘aqua-stage’ that can fill with 2.7 million litres of water. Watch from the edge of your seat as performers dive, fly and defy gravity, as they tell a story which pays homage to the UAE's pearl diving history .
Show timings : 6:30pm - 8pm & 9pm - 11:30pm, daily
Price: from AED209
- Al Habtoor City, 260 Sheikh Zayed Rd, Business Bay - Dubai
Alserkal Avenue
Once an industrial area in the centre of Dubai, Alserkal Avenue now comprises around 40 warehouses, converted into galleries, dance studios, artisanal cafes and more. The neighbourhood has nurtured a culture of creativity and is now one of the region’s leading art hubs. Since its humble beginnings as a standalone gallery in 2008, word caught on and similar concepts soon moved into the area. Popular spots include arthouse theatre Cinema Akil , the hipster-inspired Nightjar Coffee and Leila Heller Gallery.
- 17th Street, Al Quoz 1, Dubai
Expo City Dubai
Building on the legacy of Expo 2020 Dubai , which welcomed 192 nations and more than 24 million visitors, is the future-centric Expo City Dubai. Explore popular country pavilions including the falcon-inspired UAE Pavilion, award-winning Kingdom of Saudi Arabia Pavilion and reworked spaces for Luxembourg, Pakistan and Australia. Alif – the Mobility Pavilion and Terra – the Sustainability Pavilion have been transformed into interactive educational experiences, while the Opportunity Pavilion is now the Expo 2020 Dubai Museum. Al Wasl Plaza , the Dubai Exhibition Centre, the Garden in the Sky observation tower and the Surreal water feature also remain at Expo City Dubai, which has its own metro station.
Opening hours: 24 hours daily, though attraction timings vary Price: free to enter, though attraction tickets vary
- Expo Road Dubai South, Jebel Ali
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Home » Middle East » Itinerary
Dubai Itinerary • MUST READ! (2024)
Picture a shimmering city full of sky-high buildings and expansive deserts, plus white-sand beaches and the most luxurious hotels on the planet – that’s Dubai.
With the perfect blend of beachy paradise, historical medinas and an incredible urban environment, Dubai – the crown jewel of the United Arab Emirates – checks every box.
But before you go, it’s a good idea to plan what you want to see and do while you’re in the jewel of the Middle East. There are a ton of attractions in Dubai, and a lot of fun to be had for any type of traveler.
So jet off on an unforgettable holiday, and with our itinerary in hand, you can’t go wrong!
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A Little Bit About This 3-Day Dubai Itinerary
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Dubai is known for being a sparkling skyscraper city in the desert, but it’s more than that. Its history, architecture, souk markets and foodie scene make it a truly memorable city in the UAE! It is a luxury destination, and you will need to save a few pennies to visit Dubai, but not every attraction costs a lot of money. From sprawling parks to incredible museums and the epic Dubai Fountain Show, you’ll find that even backpackers in Dubai can find something inexpensive to do!
Whether you’re spending one day in Dubai for a Middle East layover or planning an unforgettable Dubai itinerary, there are some phenomenal options jostling for a spot on your list! I’d personally suggest taking at least two-three full days to explore the city. If you want to see all of the important landmarks you might be able to fit everything into 24 hours, but that’ll guarantee a lot of stress. So do yourself a favour and set more time aside.
In this itinerary, you’ll find two days packed with the best attractions, culture, history and adventure. But don’t worry, you won’t have to rush from A to B, trying to fit everything in. That way if you’re still deliberating between Dubai and Qatar , this might settle it for you!
I’ve chosen the ideal daily structure, added times, routes to get there and suggestions on how long you should spend at each spot. Of course, you can add your own spots in, swap things around, or even skip some places. Use this itinerary as inspiration instead of a fixed plan to get the most out of your trip!
3 Day Dubai Itinerary Overview
- Day 1: Dubai Frame | Dubai Garden Glow | Museum of Illusions | Burj Khalifa | Dubai Water Canal
- Day 2: Dubai Marina | Dubai Miracle Garden | Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo | Ski Dubai | City Walk
- Day 3: Palm Jumeirah | Al Qudra Lakes | Wild Wadi Waterpark | Global Village | Burj Al Arab and Kite Beach | Evening Desert Safari Tour
With a Dubai City Pass , you can experience the best of Dubai at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!
Finding the best places to stay in Dubai can be quite tough as you are spolied for choice. Whether you want beachy warmth, city vibes or old-school Arabia, Dubai has something for everyone.
The Dubai Marina is a fantastic place to stay in Dubai, right on the coastline with excellent restaurants, cityscape views, and the Marina Walk, which is a great way to scope out your next landmark to visit. Downtown Dubai also has a fantastic blend of eateries, attractions and Dubai photo ops!
If you’re looking for a taste of history, head for one of Downtown Dubai’s historical areas including Dubai Creek, Deira or Al Fahidi, where you can find the fascinating and oh-so-good smelling Coffee Museum in Old Dubai. You can also find the iconic and deeply impressive IMG Worlds of Adventure fun park in the City of Arabia medina.
Across the city lies Al Quoz, the bohemian art hub of Dubai with its beautifully designed buildings, cafes and street performances. Bur Dubai is another prime spot with a plethora of museums and historical buildings to discover in central Dubai.
One of the best and most unique places in Dubai is the Palm Jumeirah, where seaside resorts and water sports reign supreme!
We have hand picked a few of our favourite accomodation options and listed them below. In case nothing takes your fancy though, we also have our epic Best Hostels in Dubai post.
Best Hostel in Dubai – Backpacker 16 Hostel
Enjoy an amazing sense of community and fun at this superb Dubai hostel! With a prime location near the Dubai Marina and just 5 minutes away from the Dubai Internet City metro station, the Backpacker 16 Hostel makes the perfect spot if you’re backpacking through Dubai! With its warm atmosphere, well-decorated interior and wonderful staff, you’ll find a home-away-from-home right in the heart of Dubai.
Best Airbnb in Dubai – Bright Room in Shared Villa
Enjoy staying just outside of the hustle and bustle at this villa in Dubai near the beach! It’s just footsteps from the sea and provides beach towels during your stay. Hang out in the large living space right outside your bedroom door that is decked out with large comfy sofas, coffee tables, books, board games and a massive TV with both cable and Netflix. Perfect for couples looking to have a lazy weekend stay.
Best Budget Hotel in Dubai – Maisan Hotel
The Maisan Hotel has all the makings of a fantastic Dubai getaway. With an amazing fitness center, a stunning sun terrace and a delicious continental breakfast served every morning, the Maisan checks all the boxes. You can also enjoy nearby attractions like the Nakheel Harbor, Burj Al Arab and Dubai Parks and Resorts. The hotel also happens to be pet-friendly, need we say more?
Best Luxury Hotel in Dubai – Raffles Dubai
Find yourself at the height of luxury in this pyramid-inspired hotel in Bur Dubai. The hotel boasts an incredible spa and outdoor pool as well as amazing on-site eateries, including the Raffles Salon (which serves traditional afternoon tea). As proof that Dubai does nothing by halves, the stunning decor, private balcony and butler service are what awaits you at this incredible hotel, which makes quite the landmark on Dubai’s skyline!
If you’re looking for the best things to see, places to eat and Dubai-standard activities to partake in, our top-notch itinerary has everything and more. Whether you’re spending 2 days in Dubai or looking for a mammoth Dubai itinerary (4 days or more), I’ve got you covered. Enjoy Dubai’s architectural feats or indoor snow parks, and every attraction in between! There are so many things to do and see in Dubai that you will struggle to fit it all in!
The first day of your itinerary in Dubai is going to take you around some of the best Dubai museums, art installations, and attractions in the city. Why wait to see the best?
9:00am – Dubai Frame
Begin your visit to the city with one of the top places in Dubai, the iconic Dubai Frame that overlooks the entire city. The Dubai Frame is the largest picture frame on the planet!
The frame forms a doorway of sorts between Dubai’s storied past, its vibrant present and the city’s bright future. On one side, visitors can see the modern Emirates Towers and Burj Khalifa, while ancient Deira and Karama can be seen on the other.
The frame has become a true emblem of the city and sits at the top of many travel wish lists (and features in many an Instagram post)!
- Cost – Dhs 50 ($14) for adults, Dhs 20 ($6) for children over the age of 3, and free entry for infants and visitors with disabilities.
- Getting there: Take the metro to Al Jafiliya and walk for 5 minutes to Zabeel Park in Zabeel.
- How long you should stay: 30 minutes should be enough to get a good photo.
10.00am – Dubai Garden Glow
Experience this unique celebration of light where artists from across the globe have contributed incredible creations.
This illuminating venue has a heart for the environment with many exhibits being eco-friendly.
Walk through the parks many shimmering zones as you admire giant floating jellyfish moving with the music over Zabeel Lake, or admire the sight of a mini sparkling Burj Khalifa.
You can explore the stunning Glow Park, the largest glow-in-the-dark garden in the world, where millions of energy-saving bulbs and endless sculptures of recycled luminous fabric fill the pathways with light!
Then, head to the Art Park, which is made of recyclable bottles, ceramic dishes and CDs, all designed into incredible artworks.
Finish your visit to Dubai Garden Glow with a walk round My Dubai, a glittering recreation of Dubai, in a park that feels like it was plucked out of a fairytale (especially with a life-size replica of Cinderella’s glowing carriage)!
Insider Tip: Look out for the new additions to the park, some colorful characters from Disney’s colorful repertoire.
- Cost: Dhs 65 ($18) and children under 3 enter for free.
- Getting there: Take the metro to Al Jafiliya. The Dubai Garden Glow is a 16-minute walk away.
- How long should you stay there? 1-2 hours
12:00 pm – Dubai Museum of Illusions
Enjoy an incredible trip through mind-bending illusions and fascinating tricks of the light at the Dubai Museum of Illusions.
Visitors are encouraged to interact with exhibits and take tons of pictures, which you will definitely want to do.
With more than 80 uncredible exhibits that take you through a visual, sensory, and educational world to trick your brain, entertain and make you think. Play with perception at the Chair Illusion or enjoy the unbelievable sight of the Split Nose face-changing mirror (where your face is spliced with a person on the other side).
Enjoy the novelty of the Ames Room, where a trick of perception makes one person giant and the other tiny. For the videographer in you, check out the Color Room for some exceedingly awesome illusion of color and shadow!
Don’t miss out on the hilarious Maple exhibit were a fascinating mirror trick lets you have dinner with yourself. The incredible museum is also home to the world’s first Zoetrope exhibit where you can step into a movie stars shoes as you become part of an animated sequence!
- Cost: Dhs 80 ($22) for adults, Dhs 70 ($19) for senior citizens and Dhs 60 ($16) for children.
- Getting there: Take the metro to Al Fahidi and walk for 5 minutes.
- How long should I spend there? 1-2 hours.
2.00pm – Arabian Tea House Cafe
Enjoy tasty cuisine from a diverse menu in their quaint courtyard. The ambiance of this tea house is serene and the staff is willing to help. The food is delicious, affordable and you get a decent-sized plate. Don’t forget to try Moroccan tea!
- Cost: depending on your order
- Getting there: it’s a 5 minute walk from Sharaf DG metro station.
- How long should I spend there? 1-2 hours
4.00pm – Burj Khalifa & Dubai Fountain
You can’t visit Dubai, the city known for its incredible architecture, without checking out the Burj Khalifa ! It is home to the world’s highest restaurant!
As the world’s tallest building with numerous awards for its feats of height, the spectacular skyscraper makes for an incredible sight! It is also the home to the pretty amazing Dubai fountain illuminated by 6600 lights, 50 colored projectors, which illuminate the tower as spouts of water shoot through the air.
The Dubai Fountain Show is one of the best attractions around the Dubai Mall. It puts on quite the show to the sound of classical and contemporary music, and holds the crown as the second-largest choreographed fountain in the world!
The Burj Khalifa also has an amazing observation platform with a view to match. Literally, At The Top on the 124th floor is decked out with an electronic telescope and an augmented reality device where visitors can view the surrounding landscape in real-time.
You can also admire the impressive skyscraper from a spot in the lush park surrounding it, which is designed in the shape of a Hymenocallis, a fitting desert plant. The park also has a water feature at its center with a series of pools and a serene water jet fountain!
Insider Tip: the best time to visit the Burj Khalifa is to watch the sunset but between 4 pm and 6 pm, it is also prime time so reservations are more expensive.
- Cost: Dhs 135 ($37) for adults, Dhs 101 ($28) for children and free for toddlers under 4 years old for a tour round At The Top; you can book tickets here.
- Getting there: Burj Khalifia is located in Downtown Dubai, next to the Dubai Mall. Take the Red Line to Burj Khalifa Metro Station and then take the F13 bus to the Dubai Mall Bus Stop (one stop).
- How long should I spend there? 1-2 hours, then you can dive into Dubai mall for some A/C!
7.00pm – Dubai Water Canal
Take a stroll along the beautiful Dubai Water Canal as it winds along from Old Dubai, through Downtown Dubai, Business Bay, and meets the sea on Dubai’s coastline. The bridge created a new island in Dubai when it was created.
Take in the sight of the canal’s unbelievable automated waterfall, which falls back like a curtain as boats pass under it! There is also the stunning pedestrian bridge adorned with a shimmering blue arc draped lights, which illuminate the water below you. The pedestrian bridge is suspended by cables and makes for an amazing photo spot!
You can also explore further along Dubai’s landscape as you follow the Dubai saltwater creek, which winds like a ribbon across the city. The gorgeous canal with its cloak of lights makes for one of the best places to visit in Dubai at night!
- Cost: it’s free!
- Getting there: take the red line on the metro to Business Bay metro station, then walk towards Sheikh Zayed Road. There is a path by the bridge that takes you to the canal.
- How long should I spend there? 1-2 hours, it’s a great place to catch the sunset!
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The second day of our Dubai itinerary will take you to the Dubai Mall where you will see a whole host of attractions. You could spend a whole day there, but because you’re on vacation, I’ve selected some cool outdoor attractions to visit too.
10.00 am – Dubai Marina
Begin your second day in Dubai at the lapping water of the Dubai Marina, one of the best places to visit in Dubai for free! t is the home to some incredible Dubai architecture including the unbelievable Cayan Tower, which twists at 90 degrees.
This stunning canal was built along the Persian Gulf shoreline and you may even be able to spot some incredible sea life as you enjoy the view!
The sun-kissed promenade is well worth the fantastic views of the bay, where you can experience the perfect blend of beach and vibrant urban activity.
You can take a leisurely stroll down the immaculate Jumeirah Beach Residence Walk where top-quality boutiques and unbelievable restaurants are the order of the day, then find Dubai Marina’s gorgeous beach waiting for you at the end of it!
- Getting there: take the metro to Damac Properties Station and cross the overpass.
- How long should I spent there? 1-2 hours should be enough.
11.00am – Dubai Miracle Garden
If you’re looking for a Dubai attraction that may literally take your breath away, the Miracle Garden is the answer.
The Miracle Garden has the Dubai Butterfly Garden inside, which is the world’s largest butterfly sanctuary, with over 15 000 butterflies from 26 species!
Explore the giant park with what seems like an endless collection of flowers. Colors cascade across the garden with floral animals and incredible sculptures covered in blossoms create a dreamlike landscape!
You can wander at the Lost Paradise, a village of bungalows and houses, which are engulfed flowers of every color. This burst of color on Dubai’s landscape is also the home to a giant model of the Emirates A830, which is painted with a splash of blossoms, while an incredible floral clock stops time as you explore this flower-strewn wonderland!
As if this place could get more fantastic, there is an 18 m high Mickey Mouse who gazes over the garden’s visitors! The park just happened to be launched on Valentine’s Day and aptly has the iconic Heart’s Passage, where larger-than-life hearts create an amazing walkway that feels everlasting.
Floral animals graze in front of a glorious floral castle in this dreamy park, which is truly a ‘must-see’ in Dubai!
Insider tip: make sure you keep an eye out for the new addition of colorful characters from Disney’s famous movies.
- Cost: Dhs 50 ($14) for adults, Dhs 40 ($11) for children under 12 years old, free for children under 2 years old and people with disabilities.
- Getting there: take the metro to the Dubai Mall of the Emirates station and walk.
- How long should I spent there? 1-2 hours is fine.
1.00pm – Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Dive into Dubai’s natural side at the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, where aquatic creatures and incredible underwater sights abound!
You can enjoy a unique, close-up look at the lives of some incredible aquatic creatures with the aquarium’s fully immersive VRZOO!
Enter the world of sharks, where you can free dive or hop into a cage for the ultimate shark encounter. Then, get a behind-the-scenes look as you watch baby sharks have feeding time and get a peek into the life of these vastly misunderstood creatures.
Say goodbye to the sharks and get ready to be royally entertained by King Croc, an incredible (and lengthy) saltwater crocodile. At 40 years old, the King is one of the largest known crocodiles in the world and his majesty is unmissable on a trip to the aquarium!
The aquarium’s massive 10 million liter tank is filled with creatures of the deep and some of the most unbelievable marine life. Enjoy a look at the largest group of sand tiger sharks in the world and meander through an indigo tunnel where you can admire some of the aquarium’s 33 000 aquatic animals.
Add a slice of Dubai’s desert to your experience with a visit to the Night Creatures exhibit, which is home to a menagerie of animals, including Arabian toads, fruit bats, giant camel spiders, scorpions, veiled chameleons, Cheesman’s gerbils and (prepare yourself) hedgehogs!
Don’t forget to jump aboard one of the aquarium’s stellar glass-bottomed boats for a ride over the underwater wonderland, where over 140 incredible species reside!
- Cost: Depending on your ticket, you can pay from Dhs 145 ($39) for a general ticket up to Dhs 630 ($172) to include the Shark Encounter; you can book your tickets here .
- Getting there: head to the Dubai Mall. Take the metro to Burj Khalifa/The Dubai Mall station.
- How long should I spent there? 2-3 hours, there’s so much to see!
3.00pm – Ski Dubai
For the ultimate meeting of 2 worlds, why not take a trip to Ski Dubai, a snowy oasis in the middle of the desert!
The ski park is a snowy oasis beneath one of Dubai’s biggest malls – The Dubai Mall.
Hidden like a treasure in the Dubai Mall (which is already one of the most important places in Dubai) awaits this indoor playground for kids, adults, and skiing newbies.
In fact, it’s the perfect place to learn with less pressure than a real mountain, and trainers to help you find your feet. Then again, if you’re a pro at snow sports, it’s got some real doozies for you to enjoy.
You can stick to more traditional activities like skiing, snowboarding and tobogganing, or take a ski lift out of your comfort zone with zip lining, tubing, or an old-fashioned snowball fight! The Snow Park is a winner with giant zorbing on offer as well as exploring an ice cave or getting an adrenaline rush on the Mountain Thriller ride.
You can even feel like you’re in the Arctic Circle as you watch a colony of penguins waddle around their snowy home!
- Cost: Prices vary but the penguin encounter is Dhs 230 ($63); get full-day-ski-pass here .
- Getting there: It is located within the Dubai Mall, just walk around to it.
- How long should I spent there? 1 hour – it gets quite cold in there!
6.00pm – City Walk
Feel the heartbeat of Dubai as you hit the jam-packed streets of the City Walk, an unmissable part of any Dubai city tour itinerary!
Some of the world’s most famous urban artists were invited to fill the walls of City Walk with color, including murals and smaller designs.
Enjoy the sights along the boulevard of eateries, bars, boutique stores and quirky landmarks, including an old-school postbox and phonebooth nestled amongst the buildings. Visit Dubai’s larger-than-life, famous characters of Mattel Play! Town.
Then, find yourself in the lush and fascinating rainforest (in a desert!) at The Green Planet! You can stroll through the incredible indoor park and experience over 3000 plants and animals, including snakes, birds, and, pop culture icon, the sloth. Butterflies and stunning flowers take center stage as you explore this forested wonderland.
There’s no end to the epic attractions and landmarks you’ll see on a trip down Dubai’s incredible street with just about everything on it!
- Cost: Entrance is free to the City Walk, but The Green Planet tickets go for Dhs 99 ($27) or more depending on the package.
- Getting there: it’s right by the mall!
- How long should I spent there? 1-2 hours.
Backpacker 16 Hostel
With its warm atmosphere, well-decorated interior and wonderful staff, you’ll find a home-away-from-home right in the heart of Dubai.
- 24-hour Reception
Whether you’re looking for incredible places to visit in Dubai in 5 days or spending a weekend in Dubai, you won’t be disappointed. If you’ve covered our 2-day itinerary and are looking for more, take a look at these beyond-amazing options for 3 days in Dubai (or more)!
10.00am – Palm Jumeirah
Aah, the Palm Jumeirah. Is it shaped like a palm? Is it a man-made island off the coast of Dubai? Is it exceedingly cool? The answer to every question is yes, so the Palm Jumeirah easily earns its spot on any itinerary.
The stunning island paradise extends into the shimmering Persian Gulf and is part of a family of Palm Islands including the Palm Jebel Ali and Plam Deira. Ride the uber fast monorail from the mainland and bask in the sandy paradise.
You’ll also find an array of exciting activities amongst the fronds of the magnificent Palm. Spend a few fun-filled hours at the Aquaventure Waterpark at the palatial, rose-colored Atlantis hotel.
Want to know why it’s worth visiting?
- It is an incredible architectural feat.
- It was built to resemble a stylised palm tree surrounded by a circle.
- It is the home to some truly spectacular beaches in Dubai!
You can also meander through The Lost Chambers Aquarium, where you can get into a spot of snorkeling or dive through refreshing lagoons, the home to a world of marine life!
We’re not done yet, see the island from the waves as you take a speedboat tour around its waterways or hop on a kayak as you explore the Palm’s crescent. You can even play Aquaman for the day with Hydro Water Sports where you can soar above the water on a water spout.
Take your trip to the Palm Jumeirah to new heights with a helicopter tour or a session of tandem skydiving, where the views are breathtaking and the thrill is real!
- Cost: It’s free!
- Getting there: take the metro to Dubai Internet City or Nakheel and walk.
- How long should I spend there? 1 hour should be enough
12.00pm – Al Qudra Lakes
Take a trip just out of the city as you journey to Dubai’s hidden gems , the Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve. You can spot an array of reptiles, birds, and mammals.
It is the perfect place for star-gazing because of its low light pollution. You can enjoy the reserve’s sights from one of the world’s longest cycling tracks.
These man-made wetlands are a glorious escape from Dubai’s urban hub where 10 km of lakes make for an unbelievable sight. The reserve is the safe haven to 19 animal species including elegant flamingos and other incredible birdlife.
It is also the home to the amazing Saruq Al Hadid Archaeological Site withall kinds of artifacts including bronze, copper and iron items as well as gold jewelry, beads and pottery. Make this an oasis of tranquility as you hike through the park, watch the sunset or pitch your tent for a night of camping under the stars!
For a spot of nature-watching just outside of the city, visit the Al Qudra Lakes, one of the best places to see in Dubai with family.
- Getting there: take bus 67 to Endurance City Terminus
2.00pm – Wild Wadi Waterpark
Take your thrill factor the maximum at the incredible Wild Wadi Waterpark where having fun and cooling off are top priority!
Home to Breaker’s Bay, the biggest wave pool in the Middle East. Created the Burj Surj, a double-bowled slide which is the first of its kind in the area. The park was featured in 3 seasons of The Amazing Race.
The theme park is based on the tales of Juha, a character from Arabian folklore who accompanies each heart-fluttering or jaw-dropping water slide. You can even learn to surf on one of the park’s artificial surfing machines, FlowRider.
The park is among impressive company with neighboring, Burj Al Arab, but with its unbelievable 18 m high waterfall, it fits right in! Wild Wadi is also home to a list of incredible rides including the Jumeirah Sceirah (the highest free-fall water slide with the biggest drop outside of the Americas).
Up the ante even more with the Tantrum Alley slide, which just happens to include 3 tornados!
- Cost: Above 1.1 meter, AED 299. Below 1.1 metre, AED 249.
- Getting there: take the metro to Wild Wadi metro station.
- How long should I spend there? 2-3 hours.
4.00pm – Global Village
Take a trip around the world from this incredible corner of Dubai. With exhibits, attractions and cuisine representing 90 cultures from across the globe, Dubai’s Global Village makes for a world-class day out.
The park has some sensational themed rides including the Athen’s Slingshot or the Honolo-loop.
The stunning Wheel of the World displays incredible live scenes, shows and Dubai scenery on its LED screen, and the views from one of its gondolas are incredible. Performers from across the world share their traditional dances and music in a variety of cultural shows!
The lively festival takes place along a number of pavilions where cuisine and entertainment from the representing countries are at your fingertips. Enjoy a meander through the park as you enjoy attractions from the floating market to the Heritage Village.
There are also some stunning shows on offer including incredible stunts and Circus Circus. Then, find yourself an unbelievable ride to go on at Carnaval! Enjoy the rhythmic vibe of the Global Village as you traverse the streets of what could be described as an open-air museum!
The village is also a paradise for lovers of street food with an adventurous palette. Take a walk down Kiosk Street or Cultural Square and find yourself some not-so-local cuisine. You can also discover some delicious flavors at every pavilion as you eat your way across the world.
Give Canadian poutine a try, which is a mouthwatering mixture of crispy French fries covered in cheese curd, gravy and toppings of your choice. Check out the Flaming Pumpkin for a refreshing drink on your travels and then, if you needed any more convincing, get yourself a shot of something tasty the Chocolate Injection!
Insider Tip: the village runs from November to April each year so be sure to book your ticket then if you’d like to visit the Global Village!
- Cost: 20 AED per person
- Getting there: take the bus, Route 102 from Rashidiya Metro Station.
5.00pm – Burj Al Arab and Kite Beach
Pay a visit to one of the tallest hotels in the world, the Burj Al Arab, which sits on an artificial island just off Jumeirah Beach. Made in the likeness of the sail of a ship, the hotel has become a truly iconic Dubai landmark with a reputation in luxury!
You can admire the impressive Burj Al Arab as you bask in the sandy haven of Kite Beach. Walk along the pristine white sand or engage in one of the many ocean activities including kitesurfing, beach tennis, paddleboarding, wakeboarding, volleyball, kayaking and swimming. Aptly named for everything this beach has to offer, the gorgeous piece of Dubai is situated in gorgeous Jumeirah.
There are also plenty of food trucks and beachside eateries for you to partake in!
- Cost: free!
- Getting there: take the metro to Mankhool, Standard Chartered Bank station.
- How long should I spend there? 2 hours max.
7.00pm – Evening Desert Safari Tour
Booking this 4×4 desert tour to end your stay in Dubai is definitely worth it. Seeing the desert on the back of a camel is a one-of-a-time experience that can only be topped by testing out your sandboarding skills.
There’s no need for transportation, you’ll be picked up right at your hotel. At the end of the trip, you’ll also get a tasty BBQ to fill your empty stomach!
Ride on camels, surf down massive sand dunes and explore and learn more about the desert!
- Cost: depending on package
- How to get there: hotel pick up! Niceee
- How long should I spend there? Around 3 hours.
Since it is smack dab in the middle of the Arabain desert, the weather of Dubai can be quite harsh, making it hard to decide when in fact is the best time to visit .
Dubai summers are oppressive, almost unbearable sometimes, and will often leave you trapped indoors. The best places to visit in Dubai in June, July and August will all have air conditioning and sometimes even artificial snow!
Dubai’s winter months are the most comfortable time of year and are comparable to summers elsewhere. Most of Dubai’s landmarks will be very busy though as this is peak tourist season. Plan a visit to during Dubai’s winter season but be ready to spend lots of cash.
The best months to backpack Dubai are hands-down during the spring and autumn. Dubai’s shoulder seasons are comfortable, not too hot, and not too busy with tourists. As such, these are the best times to visit Dubai’s beaches. Dubai in May starts to heat up again so take note.
It’s no surprise that Dubai is a pretty big city with loads of interesting attractions to see and do. Luckily, getting around is super easy, thanks to its well-developed public transport network spread throughout all parts of the city.
The metro is the most commonly used public transport in the city. It connects most neighborhoods and it’s just two lines, so it’s really easy to navigate and it’s also the most cost-effective way to get around. They are clean, ultra-modern, and safe. Women can choose to use the women-only carts if they want to. Plus, it connect you all the way to Dubai International Airport.
Another way to get around the city is by taxi. Uber and Careem are the common taxi service apps in Dubai. They are more expensive than a licensed taxi usually, but they offer a flat rate, which means if you get stuck in traffic you’re not paying for it. As a rule of thumb, Careem is less expensive than Uber if you’re travelling shorter distances and Uber is less expensive than Careem for longer distances.
Finally, another way to get around Dubai is by taking the bus. There are a total of 1,518 buses in Dubai, running on 119 internal lines, including 35 lines connected to the metro stations. Buses are a cheap way of getting around, but they require a bit of searching to make sure you’re on the right bus. As Dubai is so hot and it’s no fun waiting around in the scorching heat for a bus, I recommend you get the metro and Ubers. Plus they are so cheap it makes perfect sense!
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Coming prepared is one of the most important parts of travelling, no matter where you want to go. Although Dubai is considered to be one of the safest cities in the United Arab Emirates. It is also known as one of the safest middle eastern destinations for women and travelers in general. However, it is still wise to take precautions and know the country you’re visiting while traveling abroad.
- It is recommended that travelers who visit Dubai, especially women, dress fairly modestly in public, and bathing suits are only allowed on the beach and at hotel pools. While women are generally safe in Dubai, It is also a good idea to avoid situations that can place you in a more vulnerable position. If traveling alone, ask to be seated in the family section and try to sit in the women’s section at the front of the train.
- There can also be unpredictable driving behavior in the United Arab Emirates, so keep an eye out for reckless driving. Pickpocketing is fairly rare in Dubai, but pay attention to your surroundings (as is always wise when traveling), especially around the tourist hub, Jumeirah Beach.
- While Dubai is fairly cosmopolitan in many ways, they remain highly conservative, so try to avoid PDA because if someone is offended by it, you can get charged/fined. It is also forbidden to eat in public during the daylight hours of Ramadan, however, most hotels provide a screen in their restaurants so foreign guests can eat during the day.
Dubai is considered to be friendly and safe for the most part, but make sure you check out all the rules and tips for traveling there before you go. As you are likely traveling in a foreign country, ensure you have access to emergency numbers in case of an accident or problem. It’s also always a good idea to have travel insurance in the event of a problem.
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Find out what people want to know when planning their Dubai itinerary.
Is 7 days in Dubai enough?
7 days in Dubai is ideal if you want to get in all the top attractions. Any extra days for lounging at the beach are a bonus!
What are the best things to include on a 5 day Dubai itinerary?
Don’t miss out on the Dubai Frame, the Garden Glow, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, and the City Walk.
Where is the best place to stay if you have a full Dubai travel itinerary?
Jumeirah and Downtown Dubai are ideal as they’re close to all of the top landmarks.
Is Dubai worth visiting?
Some say Dubai is overrated , but there’s still lots to discover. It’s a great place for foodies, architecture lovers, and anyone who’s keen to learn more about emirates culture. However, it can be expensive to travel in Dubai .
So there you have it! Our 3 day itinerary for Dubai. As you can see, there are a ton of awesome attractions to get stuck into.
When you want to find yourself in fantastic shopping malls, desert-defying activities or just lying on the beaches in this incredible city – you’ll have the best time.
Take your sense of adventure, your sunglasses, and this itinerary to guarantee a trip you’ll never forget!
Insider Tip: If you don’t want to spend hours in the car, driving from one hot spot to the next, you should check out this helicopter tour .
Instead of exploring the city from below, you can simply fly over Dubai and have an amazing adventure that not many people get to experience.
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Jumeirah 1 Area Guide
- June 7 2023
- June 7 2023 12:00:00
- [email protected] (Creative writer)
In the heart of Dubai, Jumeirah 1 is a dynamic neighborhood where the past blends seamlessly with the present. Known as Jumeirah Beach Road, this vibrant area boasts stunning coastal views, upscale residential communities, and a bustling business hub. From leisurely beach walks to exceptional dining experiences and a rich cultural heritage, Jumeirah 1 offers something for everyone. Join us on an exploration of this extraordinary neighborhood, discovering the hidden gems that make it a truly distinctive attraction in Dubai's glittering metropolis.
Jumeirah 1 Location
- Jumeirah Public Beach Unwind and sunbathe at Jumeirah Public Beach, a lovely sandy beach. Enjoy the Arabian Gulf's breathtaking scenery and crystal-clear seas. Several water sports, including paddleboarding and jet skiing, are also available. - La Mer is a chic beachside resort that provides a diverse range of leisure, eating, and retail activities. Take a leisurely stroll along the promenade, dine at mouthwatering establishments, or browse for interesting mementos. - Etihad museum is where you may learn about the culture and history of the United Arab Emirates. Explore engaging displays, multimedia performances, and artifacts that highlight the nation's fascinating history. - Box Park is a cutting-edge outdoor shopping complex that houses a variety of chic shipping containers that have been turned into cool stores and restaurants. Discover the vibrant streets, browse for clothes, and indulge in delectable foreign restaurants. - Mercato Shopping, also known as Jumeirah 1 Mall, is a shopping center with an Italian theme that allows you to experience a slice of Italy in Dubai. Explore a variety of high-end fashion boutiques, catch a movie at the cinema, or indulge in a delectable meal at one of the many restaurants available. - The Jumeirah Mosque is one of the few mosques in Dubai that are accessible to non-Muslim tourists and is a must-see landmark. Learn about Islamic culture and architecture by taking a tour. - The stunning Dubai Water Canal runs through Jumeirah 1, providing enchanting views, a selection of waterfront restaurants, and picturesque pedestrian paths. Take a leisurely journey along the canal or enjoy a delightful picnic along its banks.
Jumeirah 1 offers a plethora of enjoyable pursuits and activities to suit every taste. With endless possibilities, you can spend your time lounging on the beach, partaking in thrilling water sports, and exploring the vibrant La Mer neighborhood with its enticing restaurants and shops. For history enthusiasts, the Etihad Museum provides a fascinating glimpse into the past, while Box Park and Mercato offer excellent shopping opportunities. Don't miss the chance to admire the magnificent architecture of the Jumeirah Mosque or embark on a leisurely cruise along the picturesque Dubai Water Canal.
Hotels and accommodations in Jumeirah 1
- For those looking for an opulent experience, there are opulent hotels like Burj Al Arab Jumeirah and Jumeirah Beach Hotel, which are renowned for their amazing facilities, breathtaking vistas, and first-rate service. - Jumeirah 1 area features boutique hotels with distinctive designs and expensive amenities, such Villa Rotana and Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel, which provide a more intimate and customized experience. - Need for beach resorts? Don’t worry, this area includes Madinat Jumeirah and Jumeirah Mina A 'Salam, where visitors may take advantage of direct beach access, water sports, and resort-style facilities. - Travelers on a modest budget may discover welcoming alternatives like Citymax Hotel Al Barsha and ibis Jumeirah 1 Mall like Dubai Mall of the Emirates Hotel, which provide inexpensive yet pleasant lodging with easy access to Jumeirah 1 attractions. - This area also provides serviced apartments, like Fraser Suites Dubai and Jumeirah Living World Trade Center Residence, which are perfect for extended visits or families looking for roomier lodgings.
Transportation
Renting property in Jumeirah 1
Beaches and Parks
Jumeirah 1 is well known for its lovely parks and beaches, which provide opportunities for leisure and relaxation. Popular beaches like Sunset Beach and Jumeirah Public Beach can be found in the area, where tourists can take advantage of the fine sand, crystal-clear seas, and breathtaking scenery. There are also well-kept parks like Jumeirah Beach Park and Safa Park that offer green areas for outdoor activities like picnics and running. Check out our residential villa compound for rent in Jumeirah 1: Jumeira Seven Villas
Healthcare and Wellness
The health and wellness facilities in Dubai are truly remarkable, and Jumeirah 1 is no exception. The neighborhood boasts a range of clinics, medical centers, and hospitals that provide top-notch medical care. When it comes to wellness, there are plenty of fitness centers, spas, and wellness studios where individuals can partake in various activities for exercise, relaxation, and rejuvenation.
Jumeirah 1 Like any other neighborhood in Dubai, it has its own educational facilities. Also, because people from all over the world reside in this neighborhood, there are also many international schools here. Education is at a very good level, and you can easily send your children to school without worrying about anything.
Nearby Areas
Jumeirah 1 is surrounded by a number of surrounding communities, each of which has its own special features and attractions. Here are a few of the nearby regions in straightforward terms:
- Jumeirah 2 is top on the list due to its proximity to Jumeirah 1, offering a beachside lifestyle and a wider range of housing options, parks, and culinary establishments. - Al Satwa is situated to the northwest of Jumeirah 1, Al Satwa is a dynamic neighborhood characterized by its diverse population, bustling markets, and affordable dining choices. - Dubai Marina is a well-known waterfront development to the northeast of Jumeirah 1 that offers opulent high-rise residences, marina views, a buzzing nightlife, and a variety of restaurants and entertainment options. - Al Wasl is a name you need to remember. A well-established residential neighborhood that borders Jumeirah 1 to the south. It is renowned for its tree-lined avenues, parks, and close access to a number of commercial centers and entertainment centers. - Downtown Dubai , to the east of Jumeirah 1, Downtown Dubai is a thriving and well-known area that is home to the iconic Burj Khalifa, Jumeirah 1 Mall like the Dubai Mall, and a wide variety of upscale eating, shopping, and entertainment options.
These surrounding locations give those who live in or visit Jumeirah 1 area more options for recreation, dining, and exploring, which raises the allure of the neighborhood.
How far is Jumeirah 1 from Dubai airport?
Dubai International Airport is renowned worldwide, and it is conveniently located approximately 15 kilometers away from Jumeirah 1. But you need to check on traffic, it takes 20 to 25 minutes to drive the distance between the two places. For those going to or from Jumeirah 1, it is a quick and practical trip.
Is Jumeirah 1 a family-friendly destination?
What are some local markets or souks worth visiting in Jumeirah 1?
A few noteworthy local marketplaces and souks in Jumeirah 1 area are well worth seeing. A magical Arabian atmosphere can be found in Souk Madinat Jumeirah thanks to its historic architecture and winding alleyways. Visitors to this location may lose themselves in a shopping paradise by perusing a wide variety of stores and boutiques that provide handicrafts, jewelry, apparel, artwork, and mementos. If you are a shopping lover this place is a must-go place. because of the vibrant ambiance, waterfront dining options, and opportunity to ride a traditional Abra around the lovely rivers. The Village Mall's Souk also offers a picturesque environment and boutique-style stores with a variety of apparel, accessories, home goods, and regional crafts, giving customers a distinctive shopping experience.
What are some cultural events or festivals that take place in Jumeirah 1?
A variety of cultural events and festivals are in the place to enjoy, allowing guests to fully experience Dubai's rich history. The Dubai Food Festival is one notable occasion where Jumeirah 1 area transforms into a destination for food lovers to discover various culinary delights and indulge in tastings and special menus. The Dubai retail Festival, which takes place in January and February and attracts customers with great deals and discounts at Jumeirah 1's well-known retail centers including Mercato Shopping Mall and Box park, is another noteworthy event. Through these occasions, people may celebrate and explore Jumeirah 1's rich ethnic diversity while savoring its culinary, retail, and entertainment delights.
Are there any historical landmarks or buildings in Jumeirah 1?
Jumeirah is not particularly renowned for its historical structures or sites. The neighborhood is primarily recognized for its lavish residential buildings, coastal developments, and modern attractions. Al Fahidi Historic District, Dubai Museum, and Heritage Village are just a few examples of the city's historical structures that are not exclusively located in Jumeirah but can be found in the surrounding areas of Jumeirah 1.
A lavish lifestyle, practical conveniences, and a combination of natural beauty can all be found in Dubai's Jumeirah 1 area. Beautiful beaches, well-kept parks, and a variety of recreational opportunities allow locals and guests to take advantage of the great outdoors and live an active lifestyle. There are chances for leisure and self-care as well as simple access to medical services thanks to the existence of healthcare facilities and wellness centers. Jumeirah 1 area is a desirable option for families since it offers top-notch educational alternatives for children of all ages. Jumeirah 1 continues to be a sought-after location for individuals looking for a dynamic and well-rounded community because of its blend of natural appeal, necessary facilities, and educational possibilities. So, if you are seeking to rent a property Jumeirah 1, Al Majid Property offers a range of well-suited options. Feel free to reach out to us for property management and rental services in our designated areas. Additionally, our friendly guides are available to provide assistance if you are planning a visit to Burj Khalifa or Desert Camping Dubai .
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Is there any special cloths i should wear for a Desert Safari?
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La Mer Dubai: Beachfront Destination in Jumeirah 1
La Mer Dubai is a beach destination that offers fun, shopping and entertainment for residents of Dubai. This property has been developed by Meraas, which also developed other famous new properties like Last Exit , Citywalk Dubai, Al Seef Dubai, Outlet Village, Bluewaters Island, etc.
This beach waterfront district is formerly known as the Jumeirah Public Beach. The public beach is still accessible, but it now has new and exciting add-ons that make for a more pleasurable entertainment scene. We were able to visit La Mer on a weekday evening.
great for a stroll
Video: La Mer Dubai at Night
Contact information, how to get there, la mer dubai at jumeira 1.
I remember my wife and I dropped by the beach a few years ago as this was a public beach called Jumeirah Open Beach 1 (the beach near Al Satwa district).
One afternoon as well, I tried to visit the beach but it was closed without prior announcement. I remember they put up walls mentioning that the area has been closed for development without any notice when or what they were going to do with the beach. Lo and behold, around 2 years after, La Mer Dubai was announced and this was the project being launched.
street paint
great job for offering a hip new destination
La Mer Dubai spans over 1.24 million square meters of space. We were surely surprised to see that they even accommodated an underground parking area. As we got out of the car, we kept asking ourselves, “How did this happen? Above us is the beach, and here underground is the parking area.” This thought alone made us feel that anything is possible in Dubai.
We strolled along the area to check out available shops, cafes, restaurants and the overall design of this place. Children and families are more than welcome to drop by and experience La Mer Dubai.
be prepared to walk if you visit La Mer
there are also taxis that will take you from point A to point B
We also dined in one of the restaurants in the area for a night of open air cuisine while enjoying the winter season. It’s great to have visited this place before the start of summer in Dubai.
In La Mer, you will appreciate the street art and paintings and the design that makes for a nice walk.
We would love to visit the place again and have a day of swimming at the beach. There’s also a waterpark that will be open so this is something to look forward to from this destination too.
night lights
great family destination in Dubai
Here’s a short video of La Mer Dubai when we visited it at night time.
Opening Hours: 10 am to 12 midnight
Facilities:
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Yalla Habibi
Address: 32 A St., Dubai, UAE Phone: +971 800 637227 E-mail: [email protected] Website: http://www.lamerdubai.ae/
You can reach La Mer Dubai by taking RTA Buses 9 and 88 .
If going by private car, Jumeirah Beach Road is just after Etihad Museum. You can also check out this Google Map Location guide below:
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For a glitzy, glamorous vacation package deals, Dubai it is. This glossy desert oasis is the perfect stopover en route to Asia and an incredible destination all on its own. Start building your perfect vacation package to Dubai by choosing a luxurious hotel in the city—maybe a spot on The Palm or high in the iconic Burj al Arab, or a resort along Jumeirah Beach. Each one has activities galore: dune buggying in the desert, shopping in the Gold Souk, or dancing at a rooftop bar—and that’s just scratching the surface.
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Palm Jumeirah
Discover an archipelago of artificial islands featuring recently opened destinations like The Pointe, Club Vista Mare, and Nakheel Mall. Enjoy various hotels, resorts, and hotel residences, while exploring retail and dining options, all connected by the Palm Jumeirah Monorail.
Downtown Dubai
Home to iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, this mixed-use complex offers luxury shopping, an Olympic-size ice rink, and a variety of dining options along Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Boulevard.
Dubai Marina
Artificial canal city boasting the world's largest human-made marina, featuring Dubai Marina Mall with 140 retail outlets, and The Walk at JBR for dining. Enjoy Marina Promenade views and access Al Sufouh Tramway for easy transport.
Jumeirah Beach Residence
Waterfront community in Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence boasts 40 towers, The Beach retail complex, and a 1.7-km strip called The Walk. Enjoy views of Ain Dubai on Bluewaters Island and easy access to Dubai Marina, Dubai Tram, and Dubai Metro.
Historically significant, this district boasts centuries-old gold and spice souqs, ancient forts, and iconic structures. Shop at City Centre Deira mall, explore the Waterfront Market, or take a boat across Dubai Creek.
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Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in dubai, burj khalifa.
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Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Marina Beach, a popular beach in Dubai. Stroll along the marina or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.
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Dubai neighbourhood guide: where to eat, stay and play on the Palm Jumeirah
By Romy Hunt
Dubai's landscape is adorned with architectural marvels, but none quite as iconic as Palm Jumeirah. This man-made island, resembling a palm tree stretching out into the Arabian Gulf, is an emblem of the city’s ambition and extravagance. What was once a collection of luxury villas and a handful of hotels in 2006 has now blossomed into a vibrant playground, teeming with beach clubs, luxurious hotels and high-end restaurants. From the 20-kilometre crescent to lively West Beach, here are the best places to eat, stay and play on Palm Jumeirah.
Sushi Samba is located on the 51st floor of Palm Tower
Where to eat
If it’s views you’re looking for, head straight to level 51 of Palm Tower, where the floor-to-ceiling windows of Sushi Samba ’s sweeping dining room offer panoramic aerial views of the Palm’s fronds unfurling bellow. More impressive sights can be found from Nobu, which now occupies the skybridge at the top of Atlantis, The Palm .
Over on West Beach, Loren is among Dubai ’s most beautiful restaurants. Inspired by the Italian Riviera of the 60s and 70s, the elegant interiors seamlessly transition from the open kitchen to the terrace, which looks out across to the skyscrapers of Dubai Marina . Also on West Beach, Bangkok concept Above Eleven fuses Japanese and Peruvian flavours, served alongside a punchy cocktail menu.
Steakhouse Leña from Spanish chef Dani Garcia
On the rooftop of Nakheel Mall, St. Regis Gardens is home to an impressive line-up of fine dining spots. Steakhouse Leña , from Spanish chef Dani Garcia, serves hearty food in a gorgeous setting and also houses tasting concept Smoked Room . Trèsind Studio , next door, has long reigned as one of Dubai’s best restaurants . The modern Indian tasting concept, helmed by Himanshu Saini, consists of a 16-course, ever-changing menu. Also here are French fine-dining spot Chez Wam, and London import, Signor Sassi, which serves traditional Italian dishes.
Elsewhere, Ria at Club Vista Mare, serves Mediterranean dishes in a pretty beachside setting. Inside Nakheel Mall, upscale food hall Depachika houses some of Dubai’s most cherished homegrown brands.
Aura Skypool offers 360-degree views of Dubai from 50 floors up
Where to lounge
If you are looking for some of the most impressive pools and beach clubs in the city, this is where to find them. Top of many a Dubai bucket list is Aura Sky Pool, the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool which wraps around Palm West Tower offering jaw-dropping views in all directions. Colourful Tago Mago is the place to go for a laid-back beach day watching yachts go by, before heading to its gorgeous restaurant, housed in a former lighthouse, for sharing style tapas and sangria. Over on West Beach, Beirut-born February 30, with its candy-striped umbrellas and lively atmosphere, is a good spot for those days that flow into nights. Kyma , from the team behind Tago Mago, is a Grecian-inspired oasis on this buzzing strip, with white sands and plush loungers surrounding a central infinity pool. Finally, The Club houses several beach clubs, the best of which is San, as well as newly opened Maison de la Plage from chef Izu Ani, which offers serious French Riviera vibes, with a stunning terrace and a roaming four-piece band to serenade you as you dine.
Aquaventure Dubai has long been a favourite attraction
Where to play
Sitting between the two Atlantises, Aquaventure is great for small and big kids alike. The world’s biggest waterpark, it’s home to more than 200 slides, rides and attractions, as well as a shark-filled lagoon. By Nation Riviera Beach Club, Ignite Water Sports offers paddle boarding and kayaking. For keeping fit, Chalk Training Ground offers class-based training, with classes like HIIT, functional circuits, endurance training, and strength and conditioning. For a walk or a quick coffee stop, Al Ittihad Park is great for watching the world go by or a dog walk. For retail therapy, Nakheel Mall has both designer and high-street brands, as well as local boutiques, a cinema and plenty of restaurants.
Atlantis, The Royal stands out on the Palm
Where to Stay
Many of the city’s top beachfront hotels are on Palm Jumeirah but there are a few that stand out from the crowd. Atlantis, The Royal ’s ambitious structure is unmistakable on the skyline and thanks to its A-list opening party, is now a landmark in itself. On the other side of the crescent, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray is an oasis of serenity, characterised by Arabian touches and gold accents. If beach access isn’t a pre-requisite, The St. Regis is the only highrise on the Palm, offering sleek interiors and impressive Palm views.
Dubai itinerary: 1 to 7 days in the UAE
By Joan Torres 13 Comments Last updated on December 19, 2023
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Dubai might be known as the glitzy-glamorous Rich-Boy-and-Rich-Girl’s shopping capital, but there’s so much more to this character-filled city.
From hidden alleys to traditional souks, the magnificent desert and plenty of activities that involve experiencing the traditional Emirati culture, you will see that even 7 days in Dubai might not be enough to explore this unique Middle Eastern destination .
The following comprehensive guide gives you plenty of tips for traveling to Dubai, as well as a complete 7-day Dubai itinerary, including 2-day trips to Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.
Please note that this guide not only tells you the touristic places but it also shows you how to explore Dubai off the beaten track .
In this Dubai travel guide you will find:
Table of Contents
- Tours and activities
- How to access blocked websites
- Transportation
- Where to stay
- Day 1 – The fancy and glamorous Dubai
- Day 2 – Dubai Marina & JBR
- Day 3 – The Palm, Kite Beach & Jumeirah
Day 4 – Old Dubai
- Day 5 – Dubai off the beaten track
- Day 6 – The camel market of Al Ain
Day 7 – Day trip to Abu Dhabi
- Bonus! Extending your itinerary
- More information
Remember to get travel insurance for Dubai Keep in mind that Dubai’s health care is private and extremely expensive, so insurance is a must. IATI Insurance offers different plans, for all budgets. Get your 5% exclusive discount if purchasing via this link
A few quick tips before kicking off your week in Dubai
Best time to visit dubai.
Seriously, you must avoid summer, from June to September. In July and August, temperatures average 45ºC and it is extremely humid. In September, temperatures drop slightly but humidity still persists, so you can’t really hang out in outdoors, even at night. Try to come from mid-October to mid-May.
By the way, remember that the United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country which follows very strict Muslim Sharia laws. As a result, Western tourists need to be a bit careful and not behave as they would do in their home countries.
You don’t really need to be afraid but just apply common sense.
Know when to dress modestly
Dubai is a society with two sets of morals. On the one hand, in the places where the expats hang out, the beaches are filled with girls wearing fine bikinis and, in the glamorous clubs, you are likely to see girls dancing in dresses which are quite close to a bikini.
These areas are very tolerant regarding the way you dress but, in more conservative areas of the city, basically, in those places where the locals hang out, you should always cover both your shoulders and your knees but the good news is that you never need to cover your head.
For more info, read what to wear in Dubai .
Public displays of affection are not tolerated in the UAE
Not just kissing, but even hugging in public would be considered unlawful, including in Western areas. Once, I was kicked out from a bar because, since there was no place to sit, my girlfriend was sitting on my legs.
To be fair, the security guy told her to stand up three times but we completely ignored him, basically, because we found their norm to be absolutely ridiculous.
During the holy month of Ramadan
I don’t recommend coming to UAE during Ramadan but, if you happen to be there, – just make sure not to eat, drink, chew gum or smoke in daylight and in public, otherwise, you will get a fine.
Moreover, during Ramadan, many bars close, there is barely any event going on and, basically, life stops pretty much. Seriously, if you can avoid it, don’t come here during Ramadan.
Remember that, when driving, alcohol tolerance is 0
Driving with even a tiny percentage of alcohol in your blood warrants jail time. In three years of living and driving there, I never saw any alcohol control test but, if you had an accident and they found alcohol in your veins, you would, literally, be completely f&”?%ed.
And the same goes for drugs
The UAE also has 0 drug tolerance. Even if they found you had 0.1g of weed at the airport customs, you would be done and likely put away for a long time.
This seems exaggerated but it can actually happen and the truth is that there are quite a few real horror stories from people who happened to have micro-remains from their last joint in their pocket and the dogs were able to smell it.
Alcohol availability
For your information, in Dubai, you can drink alcohol. Typically, only 4 to 5-star hotels can serve alcohol but the point is that people open regular bars and pubs and then they just attach it to a hotel.
As you can imagine, there are fancy hotels absolutely everywhere and each one of them has several bars attached to it, so finding a place where to drink is not a problem at all.
Furthermore, you can also find plenty of liquor stores around town but, unfortunately, you need a special license which only expats can get.
Alternatively, if you can drive, there is a liquor store named Barracuda in Umm Al Quwain, around 90km outside of Dubai, towards Ras Al Khaimah.
Remember that, in Dubai, many websites and internet calling services, like WhatsApp or Skype, are blocked and, if you want to access them, you will need a VPN. Read: How to find the right VPN for Dubai and the UAE
Tours and activities in Dubai
In your Dubai itinerary, there will be plenty of activities such as going on a trip to Musandam – an enclave within UAE that belongs to Oman – a desert safari or even going on a half-day trip to the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi, you may want to go on a tour, as it is much cheaper than going by taxi and even than renting a car.
These are just some of their most popular activities:
- Dubai Burj Khalifa ticket Floor 124 & 125 – Climb the tallest building on Earth.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi: skip-the-line tickets – Skip the endless lines of the museum.
- Dubai: Hot air balloon, desert safari, quad biking – Enjoy the sunrise from 4000 feet above the ground.
- Dubai Aquarium & Burj Khalifa combo tickets – The tallest building on Earth and one of the most outstanding aquariums.
- Premium red dunes, camel safari & BBQ – Desert activities.
- Speedboat tour around Marina, Palm & Burj Al Arab – Explore these areas from the sea.
- Burj Khalifa tickets to floor 148 – For going to the highest floor you’ll need a special ticket.
- Abu Dhabi Sheikh Zayed Mosque tour – Tour to the most breathtaking mosque in the region.
For more info check: The top 25 activities, excursions and day trips from Dubai
How to access blocked websites in Dubai
As you may know, in Dubai, the internet is censored, which means that many websites which you may need to use regularly are blocked.
Besides gambling, pornography, and Israeli-related sites, some of these blocked websites are:
- WhatsApp Calls
- Google Hangouts
In order to access them, you will need something called VPN (Virtual Private Network), and I recommend ExpressVPN the most reliable VPN ever.
If you don’t know anything about VPNs, read how to find the right VPN for Dubai
7 Days in Dubai – Transportation: How to move around
How to move around dubai.
By metro – There are 2 metro lines which take you to most touristic sites. The metro has plenty of air-conditioning and it is pretty modern. A single ride costs less than a US dollar but just bear in mind that distances in Dubai are huge, so going from one place to another may take some time. Also, the metro goes to the most common touristic places but, beyond that, you will be very limited.
By taxi – The way to go. If you count the price per kilometer, it is inexpensive but, since distances are long, moving around can be costly. The shortest ride costs around 15AED (4USD). Going from the Marina to Old Dubai may cost around 60-70AED (16-19USD).
How to travel from Dubai to Abu Dhabi
Bus – There’s a bus every twenty minutes from 6am to 11pm, from the Al Ghubaiba Bus Station in Dubai that takes you to Abu Dhabi. The buses are great, complete with air-conditioning and the cost from Dubai to Abu Dhabi is a mere 25AED (7USD).
Taxi – A trip from the Dubai airport to Abu Dhabi will cost you 300AED (81USD), one-way.
Etihad Coach Service – There’s also the free Etihad coach service from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, for those who travel with Etihad in Economy. Tip: Make your free coach reservation 24 hours before your trip via Etihad’s website.
How to travel from Dubai to Sharjah
Public transportation – You can take the metro from Dubai to Rashidya Station in Sharjah in no time. You can also catch a bus to Sharjah from Deira bus station, which is only 15 minutes from the Dubai airport by taxi. If you’re in Bur Dubai, grab a bus from Bur Dubai Al Ghubaiba station to Sharjah.
Taxi – A taxi from Dubai to Sharjah will cost you 150AED ($40).
Note that, whereas it’s pretty easy to travel from city to city by public transportation, in both Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, it’s not very convenient to move around if you don’t have your own car. Therefore, you should consider renting one if you don’t want to depend on taxis.
If you are planning to go outside of Dubai, I highly recommend you rent a car because the public transportation system is not convenient at all.
The good news is that gas is very cheap and the car rental price is quite fair and, if you are from any country within the European Union, USA, Canada, Australia, Japan, South Korea, among some others, you can rent a car with your current driving license. For the rest of the nationalities, you will need a valid international driving license.
Where to stay in Dubai for a week
Dubai is a huge city with huge distances, composed of so many neighborhoods, so different from each other.
Choosing the area you want to stay in will depend on what you actually want to visit in Dubai, as well as on your budget, as prices vary enormously by area.
Moreover, if you are visiting the cities of Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, you need to decide whether to visit them on a day trip or spend the night there as well.
I recommend you stay one week in Dubai because it is the only place where there is something going on at night and evenings. After 7pm, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are pretty boring.
I highly recommend you doing some proper research before choosing which area to stay at. For example, if you decide to stay in the Old City because you are on a budget, you should know that the beach of the Marina is more than 30km away.
A taxi would cost you around 75AED (20USD) and by metro, it would take almost 2 hours, so you should really think twice.
That’s why I decided to write a very comprehensive post which will help you with that: Which area to stay in Dubai: A guide to find the right accommodation
Dubai itinerary: 7 days in the UAE
Don’t forget: Best desert safaris in Dubai
My suggested Dubai itinerary involves visiting the most touristic sites on day 1 and 2, Old Dubai on the 3rd day and, if you are here for more than 3 days, visiting off the beaten track places on the 4th.
Dubai itinerary – Places to visit Dubai in 7 days
Day 1 – The glamorous, touristic Dubai
Remember to check: Best excursions, activities and day trips from Dubai
If you are visiting Dubai for just one day, I recommend you visit the two most famous landmarks:
Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa
Dubai is about extravagant and nonsensical buildings and, therefore, the two main attractions in the city are the largest mall in the world and the tallest building on Earth, which is attached to the mall.
I personally don’t like the Dubai Mall, basically, because I am not into shopping but I like the Burj Khalifa. By the way, you should know that, despite being the biggest mall, they extended it in 2018 by adding an additional luxury section.
Read: Tips + How to travel to Saudi Arabia
As per the Burj Khalifa, being the tallest building you will ever see, nobody can deny that this 160-storey building is actually impressive.
It won’t be the tallest one for very long though, as its two biggest competitors, Saudi Arabia and Qatar, are currently building two brand-new towers which will be taller than the Burj Khalifa itself.
You can actually go to the top, but only to the 125th floor and, for some extra money, to the 148th. If you want to save money, you must book your tickets in advance.
In the evening, don’t miss the Dubai Fountain, which is the world’s largest musical fountain. It takes place every half an hour, from 6pm to 11pm.
Pro tip – I recommend you have dinner at Mezza House , my favorite Arab Restaurant in Dubai, serving the most delicious Lebanese food. It is right next to Burj Khalifa and it’s not particularly expensive.
Remember that you can visit Dubai on a half-day city tour .
Where to stay near Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa (Downtown)
Remember to check my guide to find the right accommodation in Dubai per area
Downtown is one of the fanciest and most expensive areas to stay at. Most people living here are expats, especially Arab Expats but a lot of Europeans. You should stay here if you want to be close to the best shopping areas and fanciest restaurants.
The most budget choice (Hostel) – The solo traveler – If you are on a tight budget, this brand-new hostel is right next to the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, it has a Carrefour just downstairs, has mind-blowing views and offers budget dorms. If you are a solo traveler , think no further!
Top-rated hotel – Rove Downtown – The best value for money in Downtown. Not expensive but its rooms and facilities are right at the luxury boundaries. For this price, you can’t find anything better in Dubai.
Souq Madinat and Burj Al-Arab
Some people claim that Souq Madinat is a fake bazaar that tries to imitate a traditional Arab souq.
I like to focus on the positive part of travel so, for me, this is just the adaptation of an Arab bazaar to the real concept of Dubai, which is a 21st century, luxurious and modern city.
Souq Madinat is actually pretty, has some cool canals with giant turtles swimming around and, since the place is attached to a couple of hotels, there are plenty of bars and high-quality restaurants serving alcohol.
Pro-tip – Have dinner at Tortuga , the most authentic Mexican restaurant in Dubai. When I say authentic I mean Mexicans come here to eat because they serve traditional dishes and not fake Tex-Mex food like nachos, quesadillas, and burritos. My girlfriend is Mexican and we used to go there all the time.
Moreover, from Souq Madinat, you get amazing views of Burj Al-Arab, the most luxurious hotel in the world. You can’t visit it though, unless you book a tour in advance, which often involves eating at one of the restaurants.
Where to stay in Souk Madinat
In Souq Madinat there are only 5-star hotels, so if you are on a budget, stay away from here.
Top-rated hotel – Jumeirah Mina A’Salam – Well, this Arabic-luxury-thematic hotel is absolutely gorgeous and quiet, located right next to the canal and with fantastic views of both the sea and Burj Al-Arab. It is one of the best luxury options in town.
Day 2 – Dubai Marina and JBR
Marina and jumeirah beach residence.
The Western expat land, home to a pleasant beach walk that, somehow, tries to replicate Santa Monica’s in LA, is a set of skyscrapers, which is more like a resort than an actual neighborhood but the truth is that there are a few hundred people living in them.
With as little as 10 or 15 years of history and a pretty decent beach where you can ride a camel while staring at 60-floor buildings, Marina is the place where people hang out, from tourists to Western expats, locals and 18-year old kids who spend the day driving around the area just to show off their fancy cars.
You can also book a speed boat tour around the Marina . CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
I lived in the Marina for 3 years and, despite sounding like a cheesy and pretentious area, this is the nicest part to live in Dubai, basically because it is the most Western-friendly.
You can easily get there by metro by going to a station which used to be called Marina but now they keep on changing the name constantly. Damac Properties is how they call it now I think.
Pro tip – The beach is nice but it is mostly filled with tourists. Expats go to Kite Beach, located in Jumeirah.
Where to stay close to Marina
The most budget choice (Hostel) – Top of Marina – If you wanna stay in one of the highest floors with great views of the Marina skyline, this hostel is truly amazing. It is actually located in the building I used to live and it has a few swimming pools, a gym and just everything you need. If you are on a budget and want to stay in the greatest place, this is your hostel!
The top-rated option – The Address Dubai Marina – This is my favorite building in the whole Dubai Marina, as it is just simple but impressive at the same time and located right next to the canal. It is one of the top-rated 5-star hotels in the city and has the best bars in the whole Marina.
Day 3 – The Palm, Jumeirah, Kite Beach and Jumeirah Mosque
The palm jumeirah.
After the Marina, if you continue along the coast you find the beginning of The Palm, that famous palm-shaped island which is attached to Dubai mainland and has an Atlantis Hotel replica at its furthest edge.
You can get to the very edge by a monorail that runs 20 meters above the street and, for me, this is the best part of this tiny trip, as you can get a feeling of the island’s shape. Otherwise, when you are walking over it, it is like being in a normal street plus the island itself is boring.
You can also book a speed boat tour around The Palm . CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
Where to stay in The Palm
Unless you want to stay in Atlantis, which is the famous hotel, I don’t see a reason why you should stay in The Palm. There is nothing to do and it is far away from everything. In three years, I came here just three times and only because I had some company events and meetings.
The best – Atlantis – What can I say which you don’t know yet? The Atlantis is one of the most famous landmarks in the city and a replica of the hotel you find in the Bahamas. It also has a waterpark and loads of bars and restaurants.
Jumeirah, Kite Beach and Jumeirah Mosque
Following the road along the coast, 18km after The Palm (I already told you that distances in Dubai are huge), you find Jumeirah, a set of streets filled with expensive villas where the local Emiratis live.
I like this area because it is one of the very few actual walkable parts of Dubai and also because you find the Jumeirah Mosque, a small but beautiful mosque which non-Muslim people can visit and the only cultural site to visit in the new part of the city.
There is no metro line to come here but the bus leaves from the main street in Marina.
Pro tip – Go to Bu Qtair Fish restaurant , a pretty budget seafood restaurant that serves fresh fish cooked in the traditional Gulf way.
Old Dubai is my favorite part of the UAE as it is the only place with a real soul. You can easily there by metro. The place is huge though and it has several metro stations.
Bastiqaya and Bur Dubai
Inhabited by Indians since many hundreds years ago, when the local Arabs were still Bedouins living in the desert, this used to be one of the greatest centers of the pearl trade and industry, one of the region’s main economic pillars.
Today, Bastiqaya and Bur Dubai are still mostly inhabited by Indians who are able to provide a deeper cultural feeling than soulless Dubai. Here you will find authentic (and cheap) Indian eateries filled with tens of Indians, real bazaars and traditional architecture.
Bastiqaya is the place to get lost among its narrow alleys while savoring some real authentic cuisine in the many restaurants where, according to Indians, they serve the best Indian food in the world, because it tastes like back home but it is much more hygienic.
This is, by far, my most favorite place and the reason why I finally liked Dubai.
If you are interested in Old Dubai, you can book a Street Food tour around the maze streets of Bastiqaya. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
Don’t forget to check out the Dubai Museum, which is built inside a fortress from the 18th century, the Creek, the Textile Souk and a real Hindu Temple that holds real Hindu ceremonies.
Pro tip – If you need to buy any electronic, Bur Dubai has the cheapest stores in town, much cheaper than anywhere in Europe.
Where to stay in Bur Dubai
In Bur Dubai you find some of the cheapest accommodation in town:
The most budget – Gold Plaza Guest House – This is not a nice hotel but it is really cheap. If you look for the cheapest option, this is your place.
The top-rated – Raffles Dubai – A top luxury hotel but much cheaper than other similar options from Marina or Downtown. If you look for affordable luxury, this is your place.
Cross the Dubai Creek in an Abra, from Bur Dubai to Deira
Pay 1 AED and enjoy a fabulous ride in the abra, the traditional water taxi to cross the atmospheric Dubai Creek from Bur Dubai to Deira on the opposite side. The quaint old wooden boat has a fishtail carved out of wood.
Deira and the spice market souq
From saffron, cinnamon, cardamom, sumac and turmeric, Deira has the most traditional and photogenic souq, selling all sorts of spices, to the extent that any Indian can actually cook any curry they can come up with.
Deira and the gold souq
If you are into jewelry and gold, this souq sells some of the cheapest gold in the world and its biggest attraction is one ring which is claimed to be the biggest ring on Earth, which doesn’t make any sense because it is so big that your entire body would fit into it, so it is a completely useless ring.
Where to stay in Deira
Deira also offers plenty of budget accommodation and the biggest advantage is that it is very close to the airport.
Budget – Mark Inn Hotel Deira – Simple but clean, cheap and excellent Middle Eastern service. For people on a budget, this is a really good option.
Top-rated – Rove City Center – This hotel has the largest number of really positive reviews, located in the new and fancy part of Deira. Excellent service and super modern facilities.
Day 5 – Get off the beaten track
These are my top off the beaten track activities to do in Dubai .
You can’t do everything in one day but you can choose 1 or 2 or replace some of the previous fancy stuff with any of these places:
Camel Racing
Be part of the heart-pumping action that is so integral to the Emiratis’ life at the Al Marmoom Racetrack deep in the desert sands.
It’s an experience like no other; about 60 camels rush out from the gates, long legs flying in every which direction, running as fast as they can down the track while the jockeys steer and hold on for dear life.
They are followed by their owners in 4X4s, yelling at their camels and jockeys to do better. The excitement is contagious and soon you’ll be screaming at your favorite camel (yes, you actually read that), just as you would at a horse race.
The camel race is one of the most traditional activities in the Arab Gulf and will be one of the highlights of your Dubai itinerary.
The races take place on Friday and Saturday, from October to April.
For more information, check this website .
Horse racing in Meydan
The national sport in the UAE is horse racing and, in fact, they have some of the best and most expensive horses in the world.
If you want to experience something very traditional but modern at the same time, you can’t miss the weekly horse racing at Meydan racing stadium, which takes place every Thursday at 7pm, from November to March.
The races are impressive, so is the atmosphere, as all types of people attend: from wealthy locals to expats and laborers. The general entry ticket is free but, of course, you can also get a premium seat, which gives you access to the bar and restaurant.
For further information, visit the official website .
Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding
The Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding is one governmental entity which tries to promote and create awareness of the Emirati culture, a culture which most foreigners have very little exposure to.
You can visit the center and book different tours but I recommend the lunch tour, which involves spending 1.5 hours with local Emiratis over a traditional Emirati lunch, who will explain you the customs in the UAE to you.
Since you will be having lunch with these men, the interaction will be higher and much closer than just visiting the center on a guided tour.
Heritage exclusive & eco-friendly Desert Safari
If you want a real desert, exclusive and off the beaten track adventure, go to the Heritage Safari, where you will drive, very slowly and quietly, over a track from where you can actually see oryx and real desert wildlife.
The cars are real, refurbished Land Rovers from the 50s and, unlike the regular desert safari, which is very close to the city and there is much noise from people and other cars, here you will find complete silence and the real feeling of what a desert is like.
You will have to book it in advance
If you want to go on a regular safari, check: 10 top desert safaris in Dubai
Day 6 – Day trip to Al Ain
After getting tired of Dubai, it is time to get outside of the city and, if you still want to experience some traditional culture, I strongly recommend you go to the Camel Market of Al Ain, which is a bustling, chaotic animal market, where you can bargain over the price of a camel and where you will find, literally, hundreds and hundreds of camels and a really authentic atmosphere.
Today, the sellers are not Emirati but Pakistani and Indian, even though most likely, the actual owners are locals.
However, the bazaar is still really genuine and, if you wander and wait for long enough, you will see wealthy Emiratis coming with their pickups to bargain for camels and other animals.
Every time I had friends visiting, I never hesitated to take them there, which means that I have been here so many times!
The market is, obviously, free and you will be one of the very few tourists. Al Ain is 1 hour and 30 minutes from Dubai and you can only come here by car.
Moreover, besides the market, Al Ain has also plenty of historical sites like Jahili Fort, a desert fort from the 19th century built in a beautiful oasis.
If you are self-driving, also go to Jebel Hafeet , a mountain whose road was voted among the greatest roads to drive in the world.
For more information, read: Things to do in Al Ain
You can book a full-day tour to Al Ain , which includes a visit to the camel market. CLICK HERE TO LEARN MORE
Where to stay in Al Ain
As you can see, there are quite a few things to do in Al Ain, so if you want to stay here overnight, I recommend these hotels. Good news is that all the hotels are much cheaper than in Dubai.
Budget – Ayla – This is the most decent, budget option in town, with plenty of good reviews actually.
Top-rated – Ayla Grand Hotel – One of the busiest and most popular options in town, this 5-star hotel is very close to the city center and it is a luxury option with unbeatable prices.
Go to Sheikh Zayed Mosque (a must)
This is one of the largest mosques, with the largest carpet and the largest chandelier in the world.
The mosque can accommodate an astonishing 40,000 worshippers. It has 82 domes plus 1,000 marble columns and 24-carat gold gilded chandeliers everywhere.
One of the world’s biggest-ever chandeliers dominates the main prayer hall; it is 10 meters in diameter and 15 meters in height and weighs twelve tons.
If that weren’t enough, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque has the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, made by Iranian carpet weavers.
The mosque is surrounded by reflective pools that amplify its beauty. What glitters gold and white in the sun is transformed at night by a unique lightning system which reflects the phases of the moon. The best time to see the mosque is during sunset, at 5:30 P.M. The mosque has a ‘Sunset Hour’ sightseeing set up at that time, to enable visitors to see the best of the mosque.
For more information, read this Abu Dhabi City guide
Pro Tip – Modest clothing is expected when you enter the mosque, including an abaya for women (provided at the entrance) and covered head, shoulders, and knees for the men. The mosque is open from 9 A.M. to 10 P.M. every day and is open daily to visitors except on Friday morning.
How to get there – Well, there is no direct public transportation. You would first need to to take a bus from the outskirts of Dubai to the center of Abu Dhabi and then look for a taxi, which I don’t recommend.
Going directly by taxi from would cost, roughly, around 300AED (one way), so the best way is to rent a car or, even cheaper, to go on a tour.
If you aren’t self-driving, I recommend you book the tour with GetYourGuide , as they have pretty good deals for visiting the mosque which you can combine with visiting other places within Abu Dhabi.
Bonus! Extending your UAE itinerary
Liwa oasis (2 additional days, minimum).
Liwa Oasis is my most favorite place in the whole United Arab Emirates and, actually, one of my top places to visit in the Middle East .
Unfortunately, due to its remoteness and distance, you need a couple of days to enjoy Liwa.
Liwa Oasis is located in the southern-eastern part of the country, 250km from Abu Dhabi and 350km from Dubai, very close to the Saudi Arabian border.
The oasis is situated on the north-eastern edge of the Empty Quarter (Rub-al-Jali) , a vast desert spread across the UAE, Saudi Arabia , Oman , and Yemen , which is the largest continuous sea of dunes in the world. It extends over an area of 650,000km² and measures 1,000km in length by 500km in width.
For more information, read my guide to the Liwa Oasis
Where to stay in Liwa
Budget – Liwa Hotel – The hotel is all right, nothing fancy but the location is quite unbeatable, right in the middle of the sea dunes, from where you get stunning views of the Empty Quarter.
Top-rated – Anantara Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort – This resort is the most awesome desert hotel in the country. With some of the most stunning views ever, this 5-star hotel is real Emirati luxury combined with tradition. Even if you are not staying here, it is worth checking out.
More information for visiting Dubai
📢 In my Travel Resources Page you can find the list of all the sites and services I use to book hotels, tours, travel insurance and more.
Access blocked sites – Remember that, if you want to use Skype, Whatsapp Call or Tinder you will need a VPN. For that, I recommend ExpressVPN , the best and fastest VPN in the market.
All guides and articles for traveling in UAE destination
- North Korean Restaurant in Dubai
- Authentic Restaurants in Dubai
- Dubai Travel Budget Guide
- Dubai Off-the-beaten Track
- Where to Stay in Dubai
- VPN for Dubai
- Best Desert Safaris in Dubai
- Best Day Tours & Excursions in Dubai
- Travel Guide to Liwa Oasis
Check more city guides
- Tunis Travel Guide
- Asmara Travel Guide
- Travel Guide to Riyadh
- Muscat Travel Guide
- Beirut Travel Guide
- Erbil Travel Guide
- Tehran Travel Guide
- Travel Guide to Astana
- Tashkent Travel Guide
- Baku Travel Guide
- Tbilisi Travel Guide
- Travel Guide to Minsk
- Kiev Travel Guide
- Travel Guide to Nouakchott
- A City Guide to Mosul
13 comments
This looks very nice itinerary of Dubai, as we all know that Dubai is nowadays top most tourist destination in the whole world and I think this must be the right way of exploring it. Thanks for sharing this lovely post.
My Bestie Anna is coming next week here. Will ask her to just glide through your informative read. Also I do wish to share few important tips for all others here ** Eventhough smart cards are easily accessible here good to carry a small amount of liquid cash **Good to carry a small kit with emergent medicines like Neosporin, etc,
Hi Nadiya, I removed your link because self-promotion or commercial links are not allowed
Dubai seems fantastic, Im going there soon and Im so exited.
An amazing blog indeed, This time I will visit UAE with my friends. I am hopeful that this information will be useful for all of us. Thanks to the author for sharing this.
glad you found it useful! cheers!
Dubai is a must visit destination for shopping enthusiasts and adventure lovers. I found this itinerary is very useful anybody can use it as a reference to plan Dubai holiday.
I love Jumeirah Beach. The glorious Jumeirah Beach lies along Dubai’s coast and gives you the opportunity to swim in the arabic gulf. Visitors to Jumeirah’s hotels can enjoy private beaches offering water sports. If you’re not a hotel guest, you can only relax at Jumeirah Beach Park, the public portion of the beach.
Nice Pics & Information…Thanks for sharing Keep Going! Am also interested visiting Dubai once in my life.
That’s an honest post!! I have never bored in Dubai and it’s luxury life.
What if I have the opportunity to visit in June or July? Is it worth it for a few days? I live in Singapore & I’m from Texas, so I’m accustomed to humidity & heat!
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ABOUT JUMEIRAH 1
Jumeirah 1 is a residential neighbourhood in the coastal district of Jumeirah . Stretched along Dubai’s coastline, Jumeirah is divided into three administrative communities. These communities are referred to as Jumeirah 1, 2 and 3. While lying on the northern end, the community borders Jumeirah 2 from the west and Al Mina lies to its east. Al Badaa neighbours Jumeirah 1 from the south. While offering uninterrupted waterfront views , the other end of the community has a sandy stretch that meets the Arabian Peninsula.
The neighbourhood has a range of rental properties as well as several commercial real estate options. Catering to the residential needs of locals and expatriates, it offers different types of villas, townhouses and apartments for rent.
IN A NUTSHELL
- Offers a mix of villas, townhouses and apartments
- Has a wide range of amenities
- Next to a few popular beaches
- Close to a number of leisure destinations
- Home to several landmarks of Dubai
- Close to the central business districts
- Close to Pearl Jumeirah
- Has multiple bus stations
NEIGHBOURHOOD
Community overview.
Popular points of interest in Jumeirah 1 are:
- Proximity to a number of malls
- Multiple beaches along its coastal border
- Many houses come with private swimming pools
- Home to the dynamic beachfront destination, La Mer by Meraas
Although a residential community, Jumeirah 1 is dotted with several amenities such as clinics, mosques, cafes, restaurants, educational institutes, and shopping centres. You will also find a few beauty centres, florist shops and furniture stores too. Government offices are also present in Jumeirah 1. These include Foreign Consulate, Consulate General of Romania, Consulate General of Germany and Dubai Smart Police Station.
PROPERTIES IN JUMEIRAH 1
The larger residential properties in Jumeirah 1 include villas and townhouses . These houses varies roughly span between 2,500 sq. ft. and 14,000 sq. ft. The average size of a 3-bed home in Jumeirah 1 is 3,000 sq. ft. while a 4-bed villa measures around 4,000 sq. ft. Likewise, the average size of 5-bed Jumeirah 1 house is 5,500 sq. ft. The smaller properties range from studios to 1BHK , 2BHK and 3-bed apartments . The average size of flats varies from 275 sq. ft. to 1,700 sq. ft.
Rental Trends in Jumeirah 1
Rental properties in Jumeirah 1 are offered to expats and locals. As for flats for rent in Jumeirah 1, the lowest price of studio apartments is AED 36k while 1-bed apartments cost around AED 52k a year. Likewise, one will have to pay higher for a bigger residential flat in the area.
- Rents for 2-bed flats in Jumeirah 1 range from AED 98k to AED 118k
- Rents for 3-bed flats in Jumeirah 1 range from AED 105k to AED 140k
The annual price of renting 3-bedroom villas in Jumeirah 1 ranges from AED 110k to AED 165k. Similarly, the yearly renting price of 4-bedroom houses in Jumeirah 1 starts from AED 120k and may go up to AED 275k. If you’re interested in more spacious villas, you can go for 5-bed and 6-bed units.
- The price of 5-bed rental villa in Jumeirah 1 starts from AED 160k
- The price of 6-bed rental villa in Jumeirah 1 starts from AED 220k
Sale Trends in Jumeirah 1
Those interested in reasonable properties for sale in Jumeirah 1 may find a few apartment units. The price of a 1-bed flat starts from AED 1.3M while 2-bed apartments cost somewhere around AED 1.8M to AED 3M. Buying a 3-bedroom flat may cost around AED 3.2M to AED 3.7M.
UAE nationals, as well as GCC citizens, can buy properties in Jumeirah 1. The demand for a 4-bed villa starts from AED 4M while that of a 5-bedroom luxury villa, starts from AED 5M.
ROI in Jumeirah 1
Interested investors can buy 4-bed and 5-bed villas expected to reap lucrative returns of 4.8% and 4.2% respectively.
Compound Living in Jumeirah 1
There are three well-known compounds located in Jumeirah 1:
- Jumeirah 9 Villas
- 16 Villas Compound
Wasl 51 is a gated compound close to Jumeira Baccalaureate School. Its residential options consist of luxury 3 and 4-bed villas with plunge pools , poolside dining areas and landscaped courtyards . Some of the units in Wasl 51 come with private lifts. Also, there are many cafes and restaurants in Wasl 51 serving to any kind of cravings from fast food to pancakes.
As the name suggests, Jumeirah 9 Villas is a compound of nine villas. These are semi-detached 4-bed homes with private pools, barbecue areas and rooms for the house help. 16 Villas Compound is also home to deluxe 4-bed villas , these offer a minimum space of 5,152 sq. ft.
Hotels in Jumeirah 1
The waterfront development is a popular tourist staycation. Therefore, you will find many resorts and hotels in Jumeirah 1 and around the area. Four of these deserve a mention here:
- Mandarin Oriental
- Rove La Mer
- Regent Beach Resort
- Dubai Marine Beach Resort & Spa
Mandarin Oriental Jumeira is a luxury 5-star hotel on Jumeirah Beach Road. Close to the pristine beach setting and The Green Planet , this hotel is quite sought-after and almost fully booked during the holiday season. Another popular option in the vicinity is Rove La Mer beach resort, the ultimate staycation for many tourists. This luxury 5-star resort offers private access to the beach. Those planning a longer stay can consider Jumeirah Rotana Hotel within the community.
TRANSPORTATION AND PARKING SPACES IN JUMEIRAH 1
The roads that run through and around the neighbourhood, facilitate transportation in Jumeirah 1. For instance, Al Urouba Street separates the neighbourhood from Jumeirah 2, whereas Al Diyafah Street (D73) runs between Al Mina and the neighbourhood. The latter road also connects the community to the central areas such as Zaabeel, Oud Metha and Al Karama . Moreover, The Financial Centre Road that starts from Al Satwa Road (20th Street) gives access to the business districts of Dubai. These areas are Downtown Dubai, Business Bay area and Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).
Finding a spot to park your car isn’t a problem because most residences come with dedicated parking facility. The options for parking in Jumeirah 1 include car porches , private garages , basement parking facility in buildings, and on-street bays for parallel parking. Community facilities and commercial centres, such as mosques, schools, hospitals and malls, have a large car park ground to facilitate visitors.
Public Transportation near Jumeirah 1
Option for public transportation near Jumeirah 1 includes bus services. Bus stations are dotted along the main roads. These bus stops are located in front of Mercato Mall, Hassa Bint Al Murr Masjid, Beach Centre, Jumeirah American School, Dubai Zoo, etc. There are also a few on 5B Street, Al Diyafah Street and Al Urouba Street. The feeder bus services that stop at one or more of these stations include 8, 15, 93 and X28.
Emirates Towers station , Financial Centre station and World Trade Centre station are the closest metro stations located on Sheikh Zayed Road .
AMENITIES, SCHOOLS AND HEALTHCARE
From basic amenities to recreational facilities, Jumeirah 1 has a mix of everything. Supermarkets, schools, medical facilities and places of worship are a few basic amenities residents look for when considering to settle in the community. Let’s take a look at what this neighbourhood offers:
SUPERMARKETS IN JUMEIRAH 1
There are plenty of supermarkets in Jumeirah 1. Some of these are located along the main roads. These stores are:
- Lulu Express
- West Zone Supermarket
There are many grocery stores and supermarkets dispersed throughout the community. Residents living in a more central area can access them easily. These include Yamama Supermarket , Walid Mohd Bakhet Grocery and Zarqa Al Yamama Grocery. Offering superior quality fresh food products, there are a few gourmet stores in Jumeirah 1 such as Olivegrove, Prime Gourmet, and Organic Foods & Café .
MOSQUES IN JUMEIRAH 1
Mosques in Jumeirah 1 are located at reasonable intervals from each other. Some places where people can offer prayers include Seddiqi Mosque, 28A Street mosque, Jumeirah Mosque , Abu Bakr Al Siddiq Masjid and Hissa Bint Almur Mosque.
Jumeirah Mosque is a place of worship that features a large dome between two minarets. Displaying intricate artistry, its façade is made of white stones from the medieval Fatimid tradition which is lit up at dusk. To promote local culture and Islamic art, this landmark mosque in Jumeirah 1 offers guided tours to visitors of all faiths.
There are also dedicated prayer rooms at malls and a few other commercial facilities.
OTHER PLACES OF WORSHIP NEAR JUMEIRAH 1
One of the benefits of living in Jumeirah 1 is being close to multiple places of worship. Churches near Jumeirah 1 include DJIBRILLA – Goudel and City of Dreams , which are at approximately a ten-minute distance.
There are two temples in Jumeirah 1. One is Baba Temple for Hindus, which is near Al Wasl Road. The other is the Mahamevnawa Buddhist Temple near Jumeirah Road (D94).
SCHOOLS IN JUMEIRAH 1
Giving children the best start to learn, few kindergartens and nurseries near Jumeirah 1 are:
- Alrabee Kindergarten
- Al Ferdous Kindergarten
- Green Grass Nursery
- Little Champions Nursery
- Little Pandas Early Learning Centre
Other schools in Jumeirah 1 include:
- Al Shorouq Private School
- Jumeira Baccalaureate School
Alrabee Kindergarten is four to five minutes away from the centre of the community. Al Ferdous Kindergarten in the locality of Al Satwa will take approximately eight minutes to reach.
Established in 1986, Al Shorouq Private School follows the Ministry of Education curriculum. It offers primary and elementary as well as early education to students from Kindergarten to Grade 12. Jumeira Baccalaureate School is an institute established by Taaleem, an education provider in Dubai. It offers the International Baccalaureate (IB ) program for students from Grades 1 to 12.
Some of the nearby educational institutes include Al Shaab School for Basic Education and Gems Wellington Primary School . As for higher education, the nearest options include IOWHE University , Dubai College of Tourism , Canadian University Dubai , College of Islamic & Arabic Studies and Maktoum Bin Hamdan Dental University College .
CLINICS AND HOSPITALS IN JUMEIRAH 1
Medical facilities in the neighbourhood include:
- Mediclinic Al Bahr
- Al Garhoud Private Hospital Clinic – Jumeirah
Located in the heart of the community, Mediclinic Al Bahr provides various medical as well as cosmetic services. These services include family medicine, paediatrics, physiotherapy, dermatology, and plastic surgery. Excelling in medical healthcare, Al Garhoud Private Hospital Clinic in Jumeirah 1 is a branch of one of the leading hospitals in Dubai. Accessible in less than 10 minutes by car, residents also have the option to visit the hospitals near Jumeirah 1. These include Iranian Hospital, Al Badaa Health Centre and Belhoul European Hospital.
NEARBY AREAS
The neighbourhood is close to the central city, so, it is in proximity to some of the key real estates in Dubai. Residential communities near Jumeirah 1 include:
Lying south of the neighbourhood, Al Satwa and Al Badaa are both family-friendly communities that offer several different types of villas and apartments. Al Wasl area is home to a few popular tourist spots such as City Walk by Meraas, Canal Walk and Galleria Mall . Mainly consisting of rental apartments, Al Hudaiba is a small community that also features a few government offices. Moreover, it takes around 13 minutes to reach from Za’abeel while the community of Oud Metha is accessible in about 17 minutes by car. The community is well-connected so it will take only 10 minutes for you to reach DIFC by car.
SHOPPING, DINING AND NIGHTLIFE
Shopping and dining out are a few of the favourite recreational activities of residents and tourists in Dubai. Fortunately, Jumeirah 1 has a myriad of shopping centres and eateries.
MALLS IN JUMEIRAH 1
Residents or tourists staying in this neighbourhood will find at least one shopping centre near their home. There is an impressive number of malls in Jumeirah 1. Some of these are:
- Mall at La Mer by Meraas
- Palm Strip Mall
- Town Centre Jumeirah
- Mercato Shopping Mall
First, residents can benefit from a wide range of retail outlets in La Mer Dubai. From souvenir stalls to fashion stores including Beach Bunny and La Rags , visitors are spoilt for choices. One can also find an outlet of Sephora and many department stores here.
Additional shopping complexes include The Beach Centre , Century Plaza , Jumeirah Plaza , The Village Mall and Wasl Vita Mall . Also, Agora Mall is one of the highly anticipated malls which is under construction.
Other malls close to the neighbourhood include:
- Galleria Mall
- Al Ghazal Mall
Galleria Mall will take one to reach no more than five minutes as it is located on Al Wasl Road. Although Spinneys City Walk is located in the inner lane of Al Wasl called Al Safa Street, it is also a short drive away. Al Ghazal Mall is on Al Wasl Road as well but it is towards the northern side., easily accessible to residents living close to Al Hudaiba Awards Building.
RESTAURANTS IN JUMEIRAH 1
Ranging from fast-food options to upscale dining places, there is an eclectic variety of restaurants in Jumeirah 1. First, there are many cafes and restaurants at La Mer such as Masti Lounge , Zou Zou Restaurant and Sugar Factory. Also, Argentina Grill on the beachside is one of the popular shisha cafes in Jumeirah that you’d want to hit with friends. Many other dining options are located along Jumeirah Street including:
- Sumo Sushi & Bento
- Turkish Village
To try signature dishes from Turkey then Turkish Village is the place to dine at. Bu Tafish is a seafood restaurant. Sumo Sushi & Bento is an ideal option for Japenese food lovers.
Some of the popular fast-food chains in the neighbourhood include McDonald’s , Hardees , Five Guys and Burger King . Other options for people who particularly love burgers include BareBurger , Shake Shack and Johnny Rockets .
Cafes are a casual hangout spot for many people. Some of them in the neighbourhood include Cafe Bateel and Stomping Grounds – Specialty Coffee Hub . Licensed options in Jumeirah 1 include Community 332 , Beach Bar , Club Boudoir , Sports Lounge and Sho Cho Japanese Restaurant & Lounge .
BEACHES NEAR JUMEIRAH 1
An Insta-friendly beachfront development, La Mer by Meraas offers fun-filled activities and exceptional retail, dining and entertainment experiences. Located between Jumeirah Bay and Pearl Jumeirah, the development stretches out in the Arabian Gulf. It is split into three areas: La Mer North, La Mer South and The Wharf . Many areas of La Mer are still under development. However, there are a few beaches that are open to visitors.
There are a lot of activities at La Mer by Meraas . Families can visit the waterpark and experience the thrill of plummeting down a free-fall slide. There are several things to do for kids at La Mer . They can enjoy the dune-shaped inflatable playground called Hawa Hawa or go for Water Splash and amazing rides at Laguna Waterpark .
Other beaches near Jumeirah 1 are Jumeirah Public Beach , Open Beach and Mercato Beach. They are at a distance of 17 minutes, 8 minutes and 6 minutes, respectively.
LEISURE ACTIVITIES AND NOTABLE LANDMARKS
A few of the landmarks in Jumeirah 1 are Jumeirah Mosque , Mercato Shopping Mall, Union House Flag and The Island Dubai Harbour .
Some of the leisure venues within and near Jumeirah 1 include:
- Laguna Waterpark by Meraas
- Roxy La Mer
- Vox Cinemas in Mercato Mall
- Etihad Museum
Laguna Waterpark by Meraas is a water-based amusement park. It offers five types of slides, a lazy river, an infinity pool, cabanas, splash pad, aqua play, and the WaveOz180 Flow Rider .
Those whose favourite pastime includes watching latest movies can go to movie theatres in Jumeirah 1 such as Roxy La Mer and Vox Cinemas in Mercato Mall . Art lovers will find a lot of places to explore within the community, such as ProArt and Dubai International Art Centre . People who are into graffiti artwork can check out Caution Caps which offers customised designs as well as art classes. If your hobby includes drawing, painting, pottery, sculpture and photography then Dubai International Art Centre is the place for you.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES, FITNESS AND BEAUTY
Venues that offer fitness activities in the neighbourhood include:
- Eco Yoga Sanctuary
- Engine Health and Fitness
- DuGym Rhythmic Gymnastics School
Few of the facilities for outdoor activities near as well as in Jumeirah 1 include Jumeirah Open Beach jogging track, Al Wasl Park and Al Khazzan Park.
Salons and spas in the sub-community include:
- Pastels Salon
- Cedrus Gents Salon
- Hello Kitty Beauty Spa
- Al Taj Al Malaki Therapeutic Massage Centre
You can find Pastels Salon in Mercato Mall and Hello Kitty Beauty Spa in Town Centre Jumeirah. Cedrus Gents Salon is an expert in grooming treatments for men. Al Taj Al Malaki Therapeutic Massage Centre is a spa and a health club located on 31 A Street.
COMMUNITY EVENTS
Cartier Mirage was one of the events held in Jumeirah 1. This exclusive event by iconic Cartier hosted a number of visitors from around the world, including 300 VIP guests. There were 250 drones that glided into the air to spell ‘Cartier’, a large 3D hologram that displayed the signature Cartier panther, and a few award-winning singers.
Residents, as well as visitors, can look forward to various arts and culture events happening in one of the art galleries or the Etihad Museum.
SOCIAL COMMUNITY GROUPS
There is a Facebook community group called Jumeirah that posts about all the latest engagements taking place in any of the communities in Jumeirah.
THINGS TO CONSIDER
Jumeirah 1 is a happening area. Known for its vibrant lifestyle, the community offers a lot of sea-side activities. Since it has many tourist spots, the area may get crowded especially during the holiday season. People who prefer an area with nightlife options, as well as choices for daytime activities, will definitely enjoy living in Jumeirah 1.
- Dubai International Airport is approximately 16 minutes away
- A straight drive of 15 minutes to the south-east will lead you to Downtown Dubai
- The district of Bur Dubai lies to the north-east
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Jumeirah 1 community district
Jumeirah 1 (Jumeirah One, Jumeirah First) is a community area in the city of Dubai, part of the district of Jumeirah. Significant landmarks in Jumeira 1 include the Jumeirah Mosque on the Beach Rd, Jumeirah Open Beach, Dubai Zoo, Mercato Shopping Mall, several other shopping centers. The suburb is mostly villas and town houses ranging from expensive houses for wealthy residents to cheap shared accommodation for lower paid workers in Dubai.
Geography and access
[Add Jumeirah 1 location map here]
[J] Jumeira Rd, Beach Rd, and Jumeirah Beach Rd all refer to the same road.
- Jumeirah 1 borders the communities of Jumeira 2, Al Mina (not Al Hudaiba?), and Al Badaa (Al Bada'a) (not Satwa). The NW side of Jumeira 1 faces the ocean.
- Al Urouba Street or Road runs between Jumeirah 1 and 2.
- Jumeira Road runs through Jumeirah 1 near the coast.
- Al Wasl Road divides Jumeirah 1 from Al Wasl and Al Badaa communities.
- 2nd December St (Al Diyafah Road) runs between Jumeirah 1 and Al Hudaibah.
- Al Diyafa St - renamed as 2nd December St.
- Gerard's Cafe
- [Closed] Jumeirah 1 Open Beach - popular public beach with short cycling and jogging track. Opposite Jumeirah Spinneys and Jumeirah Mosque, next to Dubai Marine Beach Resort. Access closed from Nov 2014 indefinitely while new project under construction (rumour is hotel, shops, cafes, etc).
- Jumeirah Mosque
- Jumeirah One fishing village and harbour - opposite Agora Shopping Mall site. Access Street 87A or Street 91.
- Mercato Mall
- Open Beach - also called Russian Beach (not officially).
- Union House
Property and real estate in Jumeirah 1
- No expat or foreign ownership permitted of land or property, except for GCC citizens.
- Houses, townhouses and villas - rentals available. Expensive entire villas or shared villas (not shared rooms) near Al Urouba Road. Rental costs AED 200k+ for villa (annual), AED 4-6k+ for room (monthly).
- Cheaper shared rooms closer to 2nd December Street. Rental costs AED 800-1,200 for bed in shared room (monthly).
- Apartments - several blocks along or behind 2nd December St. Rentals only.
- [Check] One more sort of apartment block (or small townhouses), on or near 10A Street, behind Mashreq Bank on Jumeirah Rd. Rental only.
Rental prices approximate, valid for 2013-2015.
Shopping, restaurants and cafes
Several small shopping malls or centers along Jumeirah Beach Rd.
Note potential confusion with new communities named Jumeirah Village Circle, Jumeirah Village Triangle, and Jumeirah Islands, which all have or will have community shopping malls with possibly similar names to some of the malls along Jumeirah Beach Rd in Jumeirah 1. The new areas are all Nakheel developments towards Jebel Ali and a long bus trip from Jumeirah 1 if you get your Jumeira villages and centers mixed up.
- Agora Shopping Mall - under construction.
- Century Plaza - drive-thru McDonalds.
- [Closed] Choithrams supermarket - Jumeira Beach Rd (EM)?
- Jumeirah Beach Center (also The Beach Centre).
- Jumeirah Center (next to Magrudys bookshop, not the same as Jumeirah Beach Center).
- Jumeirah Town Center (also just Town Centre).
- Jumeirah Village Mall - see The Village Mall, not the same as Jumeirah Islands Village Center.
- Lime Tree Cafe Jumeirah branch - the first Limetree cafe in Dubai.
- McDonalds drive-thru (2 nos) - one on Beach Rd at Century Mall, one on Al Wasl Rd at petrol station opposite Aswaaq supermarket.
- Mercato Mall - cinema, Spinneys supermarket, food court, Italian theme.
- Magrudy's Bookshop (Magrudys Center).
- Palm Strip Shopping Mall.
- Spinneys Jumeirah - near Jumeirah Mosque. Also a Spinneys supermarket in Mercato Mall.
- The One - furniture shop and cafe.
- The Village Mall - Shakespeare Cafe.
Medical clinics and health services in Jumeirah 1
- Iranian Hospital extension or polyclinic (main hospital other side of Al Wasl Rd in Al Badaa (Satwa).
Dentists in Jumeirah 1
Beauty salons in jumeirah 1.
- Several along Beach Rd and Al Wasl Rd.
Education, schools and nurseries in Jumeirah 1
Nurseries in Jumeirah 1 - list with locations and map.
- Al Shurooq Private School.
- [Relocated] American School of Dubai - moved to Al Barsha.
- Jumeirah Baccalaureate School - on site previously occupied by ASD.
Hotels, services and other places in Jumeirah 1
- Dubai Marine Beach Resort and Spa - hotel on Open Beach.
- Consulate of Iran in Dubai?
- Consulate of Romania in Dubai.
- [Update] Mosques.
Street and road renaming and renumbering in Jumeirah 1
[Road renaming not started yet (as of Feb 2015)?]
- Parent category - Jumeirah, Communities in Dubai.
- Child pages - Nurseries in Jumeirah 1.
- Related pages - Jumeirah Open Beach (or beaches in Dubai), public parks in Dubai, schools in Dubai, shopping centers in Dubai, shopping malls in Dubai.
Other headings and notes
Last update saturday 14-mar-2015 . page development 1h 2t 3d 4l 5c., related pages.
- Pages under development
Related websites (new window)
- [Disabled] Submit URL.
Sponsored links
www.dubaifaqs.com/jumeirah-1.php (PDF and print version).
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Explore Dubai in one day: The perfect 24-hour itinerary for tourists
Travel & tourism.
Depending on passport and country of residence, you may be eligible for visa on arrival
Dubai: Many people wonder – can you really explore Dubai in one day? We say, yes!
Depending on your flight timings and accommodation plans, there's a lot you could check off on the tourist bucket list. And if you plan to land in Dubai in the morning and leave after midnight, you could even get away without booking a place to stay.
For this guide, we assume this is your plan. The below sample itinerary could be modified according to your specific plans, as long as you figure out which timings can be adjusted.
- Visit Dubai frequently? Here is how you can apply for a multiple entry visa
- Want to travel to Dubai for work or as a tourist? These are your visa options
- Explained: All the long-term visit visa options available in the UAE
From the airport
If your arrival airport is Dubai International Airport (DXB), you may have access to the metro depending on which terminal you arrive at – Terminals 1 and 3 are linked to the Dubai Metro. If you land at Al Maktoum International Airport or Dubai World Central (DWC), you’ll have to either take a shuttle bus (half-hourly during the day and hourly during the night) to a metro/bus stop close to your destination, or you could get a taxi.
Since most flights currently fly out of DXB airport, this itinerary assumes that as your start and end point.
On to old Dubai
First, we head to old Dubai – this location paints a very different picture than the ones normally associated with Dubai. This part of the emirate houses beautiful souks or markets and traditional Arabian architecture and brings about an old-worldly charm to this shiny and novel city.
A must-do when here is to take the abra – a water ferry that goes across the Creek from Bur Dubai to Deira and vice versa for just one dirham. The abra stations are open from 5am to midnight, so if you end up in the area a bit early (shops open after 9am), you can still enjoy a couple of abra rides before it gets hot.
Spice Souk, Gold Souk and Perfume Souk are on the Deira side, while the Bur Dubai side has the Old Souk, which is also called the Bur Dubai Souk or the Textile Souk. If you have time, you could explore the Al Fahidi Historical District which houses Dubai’s oldest building, Al Fahidi Fort.
Plan to get souvenirs to take back home from these souks and make sure to bargain. From sand art in glass bottles, tableware, clothes and carpets to spices, coffee and gold, there is so much to check out in this area. Don’t forget to get a hot cup of karak and a breakfast roll to fuel up before you leave.
How to get there
There are a few metro stations that you can choose to get off at, depending on where you want to spend the most time. Palm Deira and Ghubaiba metro stations are near the Bur Dubai Abra stop while Al Ras and Al Fahidi are closer to the Deira Old Souk Abra station.
Dubai Frame
Given that there is limited time, it is best to choose one of these attractions to go to depending on your interest. The Dubai Frame is an iconic structure in Zabeel Park that literally 'frames' old and new Dubai.
It is the largest frame in the world and houses an exhibition that showcases the growth of Dubai. While there, you can walk on the glass walkway connecting the two towers. Tickets cost Dh50 per adult.
The closest metro stop is Al Jafiliya (Red Line). You will have to take a cab from the metro stop at minimum fare (Dh12) to get to the destination.
Museum of the Future
Instead, you could choose to go to another iconic landmark, touted as the ‘the most beautiful building on Earth’. The Museum of the Future is one of the newest structures to open to the public and has already become a major tourist attraction – tickets (Dh149 per person) are almost always sold out for weeks.
The museum is otherworldly in terms of the innovation on display. If travelling with children, a visit to this museum will be an educational and fun one with its dedicated section for kids. The unique architectural marvel has seven distinct floors offering an immersive experience powered by virtual reality and AI.
The nearest metro stop to this one is Emirates Towers (Red Line) from where you can walk to the attraction. If you decide to do both attractions, we suggest taking a cab from one to the other in less than 10 minutes one way.
Mall of the Emirates
Assuming you spent two hours in Old Dubai, and two-three hours at Dubai Frame and/or Museum of the Future, you may be getting hot and hungry right about now. Next up on our itinerary is Mall of the Emirates.
We suggest a quick lunch, either at the food court or at one of the many restaurants here. You could also kick-start your big brand shopping at this mall.
A major crowd-puller at this shopping destination is Ski Dubai – an indoor snow entertainment park. From feeding penguins (fixed timings) to snow rides and skating, Ski Dubai can be a fun attraction to check off your list of places to go in Dubai.
Head on to the Dubai Metro and hop off the Mall of the Emirates metro station (Red Line).
Souk Madinat Jumeirah
Next up is more shopping and photo-ops with a landmark Dubai building in the background – Burj Al Arab. Take a cab from the Mall of the Emirates (around 10 minutes depending on traffic) to Souk Madinat Jumeirah.
Along with many shops featuring textiles, jewellery and trip memorabilia, Souk Madinat Jumeirah also has amazing restaurants and cafes to try, many of which boast views of Burj Al Arab. There is a canal running through the destination on which you can take an abra ride.
For the perfect photo with the landmark, head to the balcony next to Costa Coffee on Level 1 of the shopping venue. Alternatively, you could head to the beach nearby for that perfect shot – it may be really hot during the day though.
Take a cab from the Mall of the Emirates (around 10 minutes depending on traffic) to Souk Madinat Jumeirah.
Palm Jumeirah
The Palm in Dubai is the poster image for most Dubai travel guides – the incredible man-made archipelago of islands that houses luxury hotels and residences. The arch of Atlantis Dubai and now, the Royal Atlantis (which was inaugurated with a Beyonce performance), is postcard-Dubai. We suggest a quick drive through the Palm on a cab to enjoy the views and you could get pictures on the promenade.
However, if you would rather see the Palm from high up above, as originally intended, head to The View in Palm Tower. For Dh100 (Dh125 for the coffee package), you can see The Palm from a height of 240 metres. The View is an observatory on the 52nd floor of the Palm Tower which offers 360-degree views of the archipelago. The destination also has an exhibition.
If you want to splurge you could try The View Next level, which offers access to the VIP Lounge along with Levels 52 and 54. This ticket is priced at Dh325 per adult. From this destination, you could also try Dubai’s monorail system.
We suggest a cab ride from Souk Madinat Jumeirah as it is the shortest and most convenient way to get to the Palm Tower.
Bluewaters Island
From The Palm, head to Bluewaters Island. Home to the world’s highest observation wheel, Ain Dubai, this destination is great for a nice stroll and great pictures. Ain Dubai is temporarily closed.
You can enjoy diverse dining spots here, or go on a stroll with views of Ain Dubai and Dubai Marina. The destination is designed uniquely and makes for a fun stop on your one-day trip to Dubai.
We suggest taking a cab if your previous stop was The View. However, if you altered the itinerary and are on the Dubai Metro, Damac Metro Station is your best choice. You could also head here from JBR on a footbridge connecting the two destinations – the nearest metro on that side is Jumeirah Lake Towers Metro Station.
Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountains
We have kept this one for last so that the timings align for all three of the attractions. The metro is the best choice to head here, so you could take a cab from Bluewaters Island to the nearest metro stop (Damac) and get off at Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa metro station. If you’re driving or in a cab, Fountain Parking or Cinema Parking would be closest to the fountains.
Dubai Mall is one of the largest malls in the world and has nearly all of the big brands that you would want to shop at while in the country. It also houses the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo – a great choice especially if travelling with children and have the time. Tickets cost Dh199 per person. The Aquarium Tunnel or the Glass Bottom Boat ride should only take 15-30 minutes each but other activities can take upward of an hour at least.
The view of Dubai Fountains (the world’s tallest performing fountains) and Burj Khalifa go hand-in-hand with the half-hourly fountain shows starting at 6pm. The shows go on until 11pm. The shows are free to watch and the walkway and bridge there give you the best photo-ops with Burj Khalifa in the background. You can pay (starting at Dh20 per person) to get closer to the performance on the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk or with a Dubai Fountain Lake Ride.
The metro is the best choice to head here, so you could take a cab from Bluewaters Island to the nearest metro stop (Damac) and get off at Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa metro station. If you’re driving or in a cab, Fountain Parking or Cinema Parking would be closest to the fountains.
Burj Khalifa
Next is ‘At The Top’ in Burj Khalifa, inside the world’s tallest building. Tickets for this experience (access to Levels 124 and 125) need to be booked in advance and vary in price depending on the timing. In this itinerary, we have scheduled this for the night, which offers the best views and aligns with the rest of our plans. If you have the time, you choose to do this during other time slots but it can add to your travel duration.
The slots for weekdays are from 9am – 11pm, and 5am – midnight on weekends. Prime hours are from 3pm to 6.30pm (starts at Dh244 per adult) and non-prime hours are all other times from 8am to midnight (starts at Dh169 per adult). This summer, two kids (younger than 12) can go free with two accompanying adults.
You can book combos as well ranging from Dh300 to Dh800 which offer a range of different options. We suggest booking in advance but limited immediate tickets are also available. Finish off the night with dinner at one of the many restaurants at the venue - choices include everything from celebrity chef restaurants to fast food joints.
And to the airport
Then, hop on the metro and get off at the Dubai Airport. The metro stops at midnight on most days (except weekends), so plan your departure accordingly - or you could get a cab.
If you did not have dinner at Dubai Mall, you can have it at the airport which has many restaurants and cafes to choose from. Depending on the airline you could opt to check in online and enjoy some downtime for your hectic day of travel with a meal, a massage, a facial or even a few hours of sleep at the airport.
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An Extravagant Escape: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Dubai – Hotel Review
W hen it first flung open its opulent doors 24 years ago, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah instantly put Dubai on the map, thanks to its home in the now iconic sail-shaped landmark building. It was also dubbed the world’s only seven-star hotel thanks to its unmatched luxury that includes a helipad, a fleet of Rolls Royce Phantoms, and collection of suite-only duplex rooms. So, how does it stand in 2024?
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Hotel Review: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Dubai
Given its standing as one of the tallest hotels in the world, each of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah’s 198 suites have panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s skyline. Floor-to-ceiling windows shed light onto a lavish interior of rich blues, purples, gold plating and sumptuous textures that are revealed over ornately furnished sprawling lounges and a grand staircase that leads to the first floor bedrooms. Here, a ceiling mirror reflects the palatial bed, television screens rise through a push of a button, and mosaic-lined bathrooms feature whirlpool bathtubs, large walk-in showers, and twin basins complete with gold-plated taps and Hermés toiletries.
Deluxe Palm Suite
With an aquarium-lined lobby, waterfalls, jewellery boutiques, and an interior decorated with approximately 2,000 sqm of 24-carat gold leaf as well as 10 million mosaic tiles, you can spend a lot of time gawping at your surroundings. However, there is also a two-floor spa to explore, complete with 14 treatment rooms, infinity pools, steam rooms, saunas, plunge pools and Jazuzzis, as well as an outdoor infinity pool, where you can spend the day lounging about in your private cabana.
This alongside its location along Jumeirah Beach Road, which is lined with the Burj Al Arab’s sister properties and numerous restaurants, bars and beach clubs to choose from. Guests also have the option to partake in watersports from jet skiing and kayaking to diving, alongside complimentary access to Wild Wadi Waterpark.
Talise Spa Pool
With eight restaurants and bars to choose from, you certainly won’t go hungry at the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Spend the day munching on poolside crowd-pleasers like lobster rolls, savour a romantic dinner against an aquarium of fish at Ristorante L’Olivo – which serves a seafood-focused menu from chef Andrea Miglaccio – or head to Al Iwan, a casual family-friendly Arabic restaurant.
We suggest starting at Skyview Bar for a sunset cocktail and panoramic Dubai views, followed by dinner at the adjacent Al Muntaha, a one-Michelin-starred restaurant, where chef Saverrio Sbaragli sends out a fine-dining menu of French and Italian dishes like the Bottini Surf and Turf, an indulgent dish with foie gras, king crab and truffle broth.
THE FINAL WORD
Love it or hate it, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is an over-the-top, extravagantly indulgent stay, which you have no option but to embrace and lose yourself in. Not to mention the service and the staff, who will give you the chance to experience what it’s like to be royalty throughout your stay.
Rates from £1,283 per night, including breakfast, access to full spa facilities, two beach clubs and Wild Wadi Waterpark facilities. jumeirah.com
Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort
View prices for your travel dates
- Excellent 5,473
- Very Good 1,864
- Average 586
- Terrible 276
- All languages ( 8,465 )
- English ( 6,570 )
- German ( 433 )
- Chinese (Sim.) ( 404 )
" The hotel gets very loud at night during the weekends from the parties on the beach. Don't plan on getting to bed too early. "
" It's good "
" Pool is quite small for size of hotel, head ro the beach! Will always find a spot! "
" I would consider the half board option, as it’s not much more than B&B, but can save you a lot of money. "
" If you have Groupon or Entertainer they do have valuable offers. "
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HILTON DUBAI JUMEIRAH RESORT - Updated 2024 Prices & Hotel Reviews (United Arab Emirates)
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Jumeirah. With its beaches, boutiques and brilliant bites, Jumeirah offers oceans of opportunities to relax and unwind in Dubai. Visit Jumeirah and you'll find yourself surrounded by bougainvillea-laden villas, a thriving cafe scene and chic malls by the sea - it's easy to see why this affluent coastal district is one of Dubai's most ...
Now $1,006 (Was $̶1̶,̶1̶8̶0̶) on Tripadvisor: Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai. See 4,132 traveler reviews, 3,126 candid photos, and great deals for Jumeirah Beach Hotel, ranked #271 of 805 hotels in Dubai and rated 4 of 5 at Tripadvisor.
This exclusive neighborhood is just a mile to the south of Dubai Creek and connects the northern suburbs with those south of the city. Jumeirah Beach Road is the main thoroughfare that connects Jumeirah 1, up near La Mer Beach, to Jumeirah 3 - Kite Beach territory. It's a district that has plenty of tourist appeal thanks to its seriously cool ...
Day 1 - 7 Day Dubai Itinerary: Relax Into Dubai. Day 2 - 7 Day Dubai Itinerary: Old Meets New. Day 3 - 7 Day Dubai Itinerary: Modern Dubai. Day 4 - 7 Day Dubai Itinerary: Beach & Desert. Day 5 - 7 Day Dubai Itinerary: Abu Dhabi Day Trip. Day 6 - 7 Day Dubai Itinerary: Dubai Theme Park Day!
Jumeirah 1 by day. Daytime activities such as beach sports, shopping, dining, jogging, and more make up most of the activity in Jumeirah 1. The community becomes a mix of tourists, residents from other parts of Dubai, and Jumeirah 1 residents who come to the district to have an idyllic day at the beach or to shop at the many boutiques, salons, shops, etc. on offer.
Dubai Mall is the world's largest destination for shopping, entertainment and leisure, located next to the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Featuring over 1,200 retail stores, two major department stores and hundreds of food and beverage outlets, Dubai Mall covers more than 1 million sqm - an area equivalent to 200 football pitches.
Cost - Dhs 50 ($14) for adults, Dhs 20 ($6) for children over the age of 3, and free entry for infants and visitors with disabilities. Getting there: Take the metro to Al Jafiliya and walk for 5 minutes to Zabeel Park in Zabeel. How long you should stay: 30 minutes should be enough to get a good photo.
In the heart of Dubai, Jumeirah 1 is a dynamic neighborhood where the past blends seamlessly with the present. Known as Jumeirah Beach Road, this vibrant area boasts stunning coastal views, upscale residential communities, and a bustling business hub. ... For those going to or from Jumeirah 1, it is a quick and practical trip. Is Jumeirah 1 a ...
J1 Beach Dubai will be a sprawling day and night destination ( Image credit: Merex Investments) The new destination is located on approximately 500 metres of impressive beachfront in Jumeirah 1. It comprises two sections of Dubai Development Authority (DDA) plots with a total covered area of 103,550 square metres.
Don't Miss Out. Be the first to know the latest about J1 Beach! We look forward to seeing you. Escape to tranquillity with tantalising flavours and blends at the newest beach destination in Jumeirah 1, Dubai.
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La Mer Dubai: Beachfront Destination in Jumeirah 1. La Mer Dubai is a beach destination that offers fun, shopping and entertainment for residents of Dubai. This property has been developed by Meraas, which also developed other famous new properties like Last Exit, Citywalk Dubai, Al Seef Dubai, Outlet Village, Bluewaters Island, etc.
Dubai Travel Guide Dubai Hotels Vacation Rentals in Dubai Dubai Flights Car Rentals in Dubai. Dubai Vacations & Trips from $1,405 ... Palm Jumeirah. Save 100% on your flight. Price was $2,617, price is now $1,519 per person. $2,617. $1,519. per person. May 10 - May 19. Roundtrip flight included.
Now $79 (Was $̶1̶3̶2̶) on Tripadvisor: The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle, Dubai. See 2,476 traveler reviews, 1,444 candid photos, and great deals for The First Collection at Jumeirah Village Circle, ranked #14 of 804 hotels in Dubai and rated 5 of 5 at Tripadvisor.
March 28, 2024. IR_Stone. Dubai's landscape is adorned with architectural marvels, but none quite as iconic as Palm Jumeirah. This man-made island, resembling a palm tree stretching out into the Arabian Gulf, is an emblem of the city's ambition and extravagance. What was once a collection of luxury villas and a handful of hotels in 2006 has ...
Now $125 (Was $̶1̶3̶7̶) on Tripadvisor: Rove La Mer Beach, Jumeirah, Dubai. See 1,356 traveler reviews, 1,059 candid photos, and great deals for Rove La Mer Beach, Jumeirah, ranked #230 of 805 hotels in Dubai and rated 4 of 5 at Tripadvisor.
Le Gourmet Cafe & Restaurant. Jumeriah Beach Road. Jumeirah 1. 1 2 3 … 8. List of the best restaurants, bars, pubs, hotels, attractions in Jumeirah 1, Dubai. Find a list of top restaurants, bars, pubs, hotels in the city of Dubai by area Jumeirah 1.
Where to stay. Dubai itinerary: 7 days in the UAE. Day 1 - The fancy and glamorous Dubai. Day 2 - Dubai Marina & JBR. Day 3 - The Palm, Kite Beach & Jumeirah. Day 4 - Old Dubai. Day 5 - Dubai off the beaten track. Day 6 - The camel market of Al Ain. Day 7 - Day trip to Abu Dhabi.
The average size of a 3-bed home in Jumeirah 1 is 3,000 sq. ft. while a 4-bed villa measures around 4,000 sq. ft. Likewise, the average size of 5-bed Jumeirah 1 house is 5,500 sq. ft. The smaller properties range from studios to 1BHK, 2BHK and 3-bed apartments. The average size of flats varies from 275 sq. ft. to 1,700 sq. ft.
Jumeirah 1 (One, First) is a community area in the city of Dubai, part of the district of Jumeirah. Significant landmarks in Jumeira 1 include the Jumeirah Mosque on the Beach Rd, Jumeirah Open Beach, Dubai Zoo, Mercato Shopping Mall, several other shopping centers. The suburb is mostly villas and town houses ranging from expensive houses for wealthy residents to cheap shared accommodation for ...
The slots for weekdays are from 9am - 11pm, and 5am - midnight on weekends. Prime hours are from 3pm to 6.30pm (starts at Dh244 per adult) and non-prime hours are all other times from 8am to ...
The T1 light rail (Jumeirah Beach Residence 1) has 11 stations departing from Al Sufouh Tram Station and ending at Dubai Marina Mall. ... Bus or Ferry to plan your route around Dubai / Abu Dhabi. The trip planner shows updated data for RTA and any light rail, including line T1, in Dubai / Abu Dhabi. T1 - Alternative Directions. T1 - Al Sufouh ...
Hotel Review: Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Dubai. STAY. Given its standing as one of the tallest hotels in the world, each of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah's 198 suites have panoramic views of the Arabian ...
Jumeirah Village Triangle, Dubai, Dubai Apartment. This 1 bedroom 1 bathroom Apartment is for sale on realtor.com by Net Real Estate.
Now $542 (Was $̶1̶,̶7̶0̶6̶) on Tripadvisor: Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort, Dubai. See 8,451 traveler reviews, 5,802 candid photos, and great deals for Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort, ranked #184 of 804 hotels in Dubai and rated 4 of 5 at Tripadvisor.
1 bedroom MBL Residencein Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT), Dubai is a mixed-used development by MAG developer and features exclusively designed 1, 2 & 3 bedroom apartments.
Jumeirah Bay X2, Dubai, Dubai Property. This 1 bedroom 1 bathroom Property is for rent on realtor.com. BUY; ... Jumeirah Bay X2, Dubai, Al Thanyah Fifth. Details :- Reference: MGPD-T10603. Located ...