Dubai

Dubai, a bustling metropolis in the United Arab Emirates, is renowned for its futuristic skyline, dominated by the towering Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. It boasts a unique blend of modern luxury and rich cultural heritage, offering visitors extravagant shopping experiences, artificial islands, and expansive desert landscapes.

Dubai seamlessly combines innovation with tradition, serving as a global hub for business, tourism, and luxury living.

Places to visit

Key Phrases

Speak like a local

  • "Marhaba (مرحبا)" - Hello
  • "Shukran (شكرا)" - Thank you
  • "Inshallah (إن شاء الله)" - God willing
  • "Ma'a as-salama (مع السلامة)" - Goodbye
  • "Mumkin (ممكن)" - Possible

Day plans

Spend a day exploring around

day 1

Discovering History and Culture in Dubai

morning:Start your day by visiting the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and taking in the breathtaking views of Dubai from the observation deck. Head to the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort to immerse yourself in the city's rich history and heritage. Enjoy a traditional Emirati breakfast at Arabian Tea House.

afternoon:Explore the historic Al Bastakiya neighborhood and stroll through its narrow lanes filled with art galleries, cafes, and boutique shops. Visit the Dubai Spice Souk and experience the vibrant atmosphere of the traditional market. Relish a delicious lunch at Local Bites Café, offering a fusion of local and international flavors.

evening:Indulge in a traditional Emirati dinner at Al Fanar Restaurant, known for its authentic Emirati cuisine and warm ambiance. For a night-out, head to the Madinat Jumeirah Souk for an evening of entertainment, live music, and waterfront views.

day 2

Modern Dubai Delights

morning:Start your day with a visit to the Dubai Marina, an architectural marvel with stunning skyscrapers and a bustling waterfront. Embark on a yacht cruise to admire the modern skyline of Dubai and the iconic Palm Jumeirah. Enjoy a delicious breakfast at The Sum of Us, known for its artisanal coffee and hearty dishes.

afternoon:Head to The Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping destinations, for a leisurely afternoon of retail therapy and exploration. Discover unique attractions such as the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and the VR Park. Treat yourself to a delightful lunch at Social House, offering international cuisine and panoramic views of the Burj Khalifa.

evening:Experience the vibrant nightlife of Dubai at the trendy Zero Gravity beach club, where you can enjoy beachfront cocktails, live music, and a lively ambience while taking in the stunning sunset views over the Arabian Gulf.

day 3

Desert Adventure and Traditional Experiences

morning:Embark on an exciting desert safari adventure with a dune bashing experience and camel rides to immerse yourself in the desert landscape. Visit a traditional Bedouin camp and learn about the local culture and heritage. Enjoy a delectable breakfast spread at the camp, featuring traditional Arabian dishes.

afternoon:Participate in thrilling activities such as sandboarding and quad biking amidst the stunning desert dunes. Immerse yourself in the art of henna painting and experience a captivating falconry demonstration. Savor a traditional Arabic lunch buffet with a wide array of Middle Eastern specialties.

evening:As the sun sets, enjoy a magical desert sunset and later feast on a sumptuous barbecue dinner under the starry skies, accompanied by live entertainment including belly dancing and traditional Tanoura performances.

day 4

Waterfront Wonders and Culinary Delights

morning:Embark on a scenic abra tour along the Dubai Creek to explore the historical and modern aspects of the city while enjoying picturesque views of the waterfront. Visit the Dubai Gold Souk and browse through its dazzling collection of gold and precious jewelry. Indulge in a delightful breakfast at Creekside Cafe, offering a serene setting by the creek.

afternoon:Explore the charming district of Al Seef, lined with traditional architecture and cultural experiences. Discover the unique blend of old-world aesthetics and modern amenities while strolling along the waterfront promenade. Treat yourself to a delectable lunch at Arabian Tea House, known for its authentic Emirati dishes and tranquil ambiance.

evening:As night falls, head to the Dubai Marina Yacht Club for a sophisticated evening filled with fine dining, elegant cocktails, and stunning views of the marina. Experience the city's dynamic nightlife at the Buddha-Bar, a stylish venue with an alluring combination of music, ambiance, and cuisine.

Dubai Famous Food

Must-Try local dishes

Shawarma

Tender slices of marinated meat wrapped in a warm flatbread with garlic sauce, pickles, and tomatoes can be found at RAK Shawarma or Al Mallah restaurant.

Must-Try!

Machboos

A fragrant rice dish with slow-cooked meat, often accompanied by dried limes and aromatic spices. Try this at Seven Sands or Local Bites Cafe for an authentic taste.

Luqaimat

Small, sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup, commonly enjoyed as a dessert or snack. Visit the Global Village or Qwaider Al Nabulsi to savor these delicacies.

Harees

A hearty dish made with wheat and slow-cooked meat, often enjoyed during Ramadan. Head to Ayam Elezz for an exquisite serving of Harees.

Food Markets & Street Food

A food market and street food guide

Spice Souk

Explore the aromatic Spice Souk in Deira to discover an array of exotic spices, herbs, and dried fruits, offering a sensory journey through traditional flavors.

AlSeef Street Food

Wander through AlSeef's bustling alleys to find various food stalls serving a rich tapestry of Emirati, Middle Eastern, and international street food.

Ripe Market

Experience a vibrant open-air market at Zabeel Park, featuring organic produce, artisanal products, and diverse food stalls offering gourmet street food.

Al Marhabani

Visit Al Marhabani in Deira to sample the popular local snack, Sambousek, crispy pastries filled with meat, cheese, or spinach.

Things to do in Dubai

Unique local experiences...

Pet sitters in Dubai

Relax and unwind while your furry friend enjoys making a new companion!

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