Things to do in Dubai

The ultimate Dubai trip planner: 1-day, 3-day & 5-day Dubai itineraries

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Dubai transforms your travel dreams into reality. From its humble beginnings as a fishing village, this Middle Eastern gem now stands as a playground of endless possibilities. Whether you're chasing thrills at desert safaris, shopping at mega-malls, or marveling at the Burj Khalifa, Dubai offers something for everyone. With 9.31 million visitors in early 2024 alone, it's clear why this city captivates travelers worldwide. Ready to plan your Dubai adventure? Our 1-day, 3-day, and 5-day itineraries will help you make the most of your visit to this spectacular city.

Best time to visit Dubai


Dubai
It is important to learn all about the tourist seasons in Dubai before visiting
 

The perfect time for your Dubai adventure is between November and February, when temperatures are pleasantly cool (13-30°C). This is ideal for exploring outdoor attractions and desert safaris! Just keep in mind it's peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.

Want to save money and avoid crowds? Consider visiting in March, April, September, or October. You'll still have great weather for sightseeing, just with fewer tourists around.

Beach lovers, heads up! Skip January to March (that's rainy season). And if you're sensitive to heat, definitely avoid July and August – it gets super hot and humid. Though if you can handle the heat, summer visits come with amazing deals on hotels and activities! Read more about the best time to visit Dubai.

Dubai itineraries


Depending on how long you're in Dubai for - whether it's just a day or 5 days, we have the perfect itineraries crafted for you. Go through these Dubai itineraries and plan your stay well in advance!

If this is your first time traveling to Dubai, you could use some help planning your daily itineraries. Apart from the basic planning (flight tickets, visa, accommodation in Dubai, etc.), you'll need to consider your day-to-day activities in Dubai - where to go, what to see, how to get there, and more. But fret not, for we are here to help.

1-Day Dubai Itinerary

3-Day Dubai Itinerary

5-Day Dubai Itinerary

Packing for Dubai


Essential Documents & Electronics
  • Universal adaptor
  • Photo ID/passport
  • Camera
  • Power bank
Footwear
  • Comfortable walking shoes
  • Sandals for beach
  • Dressy shoes for evenings
Everyday Clothing
  • 3-5 breathable tops that cover shoulders
  • 1-2 pairs of casual pants
  • Knee-length shorts
  • Long skirt or dress for modesty
Beach Essentials
  • Swimwear
  • Beach cover-ups
  • Beach towel
  • Sunglasses
Religious Site Attire
  • Long-sleeved tops
  • Head scarf for women (for mosque visits)
  • Full-length pants/skirts
Evening Wear
  • 1-2 dressy outfits
  • Light jacket (December-March)
Summer Protection
  • Sunscreen (high SPF)
  • Hat or cap
  • Loose cotton clothes
Adventure Gear
  • Athletic wear for activities
  • Sports shoes
  • Quick-dry clothing

Where to stay in Dubai


One of the most important things to do when planning a trip to Dubai is research the place where you will be staying. One thing to keep in mind is that Dubai is big, so you might be close to a few destinations and quite far from some other popular attractions.

So, where do you stay? Well, this depends a lot on your itinerary and the places that you choose to visit in Dubai, not to mention your budget.

If you want to pamper yourself during your Dubai trip and are looking for both fun and entertainment, then Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence area is a good place to consider. This area has plenty of beach spots, restaurants, bars, and skyscrapers for you to enjoy. However, this is also the most expensive place to stay in Dubai.

If you are looking for cheap and budget-friendly accommodations, then check out Al Barsha or Old Dubai. Al Barsha is well-connected to the metro and close to both Downtown and Marina. The only caveat is that it is not close to the main attractions.

For those who wish to stay close to the main attractions, Downtown is one of the best places to stay in Dubai. You are in close proximity to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and other amazing skyscrapers and is home to several clubs and restaurants. There are both expensive and budget-friendly hotels available here but this place is a little far from the beach.

Want to experience the traditional culture of Dubai? Then choose to stay in Bur Dubai, the heart of Old City. Here, you won’t find fancy restaurants or bars but lots of buildings with traditional architecture, bazaars, narrow alleys, and more. Plus, this place offers the cheapest accommodation rates in Dubai.

Packing Checklist
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Dubai travel tips & hacks


Dubai is just about as touristy as it gets. A city rich with history and modernity, there's something for everybody here. Go through our guide and jot down some interesting travel tips that even the locals swear by. Learn how to navigate tourist traps in Dubai , how to save money on transport, food, and accommodation, and then some. Start making notes and use these tips before your trip to Dubai .

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