Joanna James
UAE’s “City of Gold”, Dubai, often characterised by golden deserts, ultra-modern architecture and mind-blowing extravagance, is a dream destination for many. While it certainly has no shortage of iconic landmarks, cultural gems, and other fascinating attractions, the real challenge is how you choose to spend your days in the vibrant metropolis. For those with limited time in Dubai, here’s a guide on how you can make the most of your time with only 2 days in the exotic Gulf city. Come, enjoy!
Morning: Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall
Nothing says a quintessential Dubai experience like visiting the city’s undisputed crown jewel, the towering Burj Khalifa. Zoom up to the observation deck on the 124th or 148th floor, where you are greeted by breathtaking panoramic views of the world-class Dubai skyline.
Wrapping up your tour of Burj Khalifa, just adjacent — a hop, skip and a jump away — is the ritzy Dubai Mall. Treat yourself to a slice of Dubai-style retail therapy at the mind-boggling 1,200+ stores. The sprawling mall isn’t only a place for shopping either; visitors to the mall also have a range of entertainment options awaiting them, such as the famous Dubai Ice Rink and Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
Step back in time at the old-world Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. With quaint narrow lanes and traditional wind-tower houses, the Dubai of centuries past is still alive in the historical quarter. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding is one of the highlights, where people go for fascinating cultural exhibitions.
For a truly authentic Arabian experience, take an abra ride, Dubai’s traditional water taxis, across Dubai Creek to Deira, where you can explore the atmospheric Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Perfume Souk. While the ritzy shopping megacentres may characterise modern-day Dubai, these old-world marketplaces are what fueled the city before it rose to international popularity.
No holiday spent in the Middle East would be complete without some exhilarating dune bashing, and Dubai, of all destinations, is certainly no exception. Hop in a mighty white SUV and brace yourself for a stomach-churning roller coaster ride up and down rolling sand dunes.
Morning: Palm Jumeirah and Beaches
Indulge in luxury at the tree-shaped Palm Jumeirah island, known for glitzy shopping malls, extravagant entertainment options and upmarket global restaurants. Take a monorail ride for spectacular views, stroll the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk or dance your night away at one of the many world-class nightclubs on the island.
Dubai may not be known for its beaches, such as the city’s sprawling golden deserts, but travellers are treated to blissful beachside experiences nonetheless. Kite Beach, JBR Beach and Jumeirah Beach are some of the most popular beaches bordering the Gulf city, inviting everyone for a dose of sun, sand and sea.
Fun and exciting things to do in Dubai might be plentiful, but your Dubai experience would hardly be complete without sampling the state’s mouth-watering culinary delights. Embark on an exciting exploration of local cuisine at a luxury hotel in Dubai the likes of Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai, and let the true foodie in you unleash.
As the sun goes down and the darkness descends upon the bustling metropolis, nothing makes for a fantastic evening like a lovely dhow cruise. Hop aboard a traditional dhow and sail across the serene Dubai Creek, feasting your eyes on the glimmering Dubai skyline. Evenings in the Gulf city gets only as good as this.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
