Live the ultimate city-life in Dubai

Dubai, the quintessential urban city, has dazzled the world so much so that each one wishes to visit it at least once in their lifetime. We agree with each one of them because it is worth a visit and more. From the world’s tallest building to the world’s largest mall, Dubai does pack a compelling itinerary.

With the myriad of activities and sightseeing avenues Dubai offers, it is easy to fill your itinerary of at least five days. However, if you have only a weekend to explore this human-made wonder, then don’t worry, we have you covered.

How to spend a weekend in Dubai?

Day One in Dubai:

 

Jumeirah Mosque

Time: 9 AM (1.5 hours)

Start your day early to meet every milestone of the eventful day planned today. Start with Jumeirah Mosque, the only mosque in all of Dubai that allows even non-Muslims to enter. It is a beautiful mosque built in 1976 with architectural style influences from Egypt and Syria. Make sure to dress suitable for the mosque visit or rent a traditional attire on arrival.

 

Dubai Mall

Time: 11:30 AM (2.5 hours)

Dubai takes pride in being to the world’s greatest attractions, and Dubai mall tops that list. This magnanimous mall is as big as 200 football grounds put together and boasts around 1200 retail outlets. It is no wonder that Dubai also hosts one of the biggest shopping festivals in the world, which deserves an independent itinerary in itself. Soak in all the retail glory as the mall has something for everyone.

 

Lunch

Time 2.00 PM (1 hour)

Take a break for lunch at the multitude of eateries at Dubai Mall.

Dubai Aquarium

Time 3:00 PM (2.5 hours)

One of the largest suspended aquariums is a must on your itinerary. Stroll through a tunnel to view a splendid Underwater Zoo with beautiful creatures like Sharks, stingrays, sand tiger sharks and 140 other species of marine animals. You can also explore different experiences like feeding the aquatic animals while onboard a boat with glass bottom and dive in a cage to witness sharks and crocodiles in close quarters.

 

Burj Khalifa Observation Deck

Time 5:30 PM (2 hours)

Burj Khalifa stands proudly in Dubai’s skyline as the tallest building in the world. The structure is so massive that during winters, the top of the building is in clouds and is quite a view to witness. Due to its immense popularity, Burj Khalifa, for most times of the year is brimming with tourists; hence, it is advisable to pre-buy the tickets online. Climb to the 124th, 125th, or 148th-floor observation deck to enjoy spectacular views of the city.

 

Dubai Fountain

Time 7:30 PM (45 minutes)

The grand Dubai Fountain is the tallest performing fountain in the world. It is 270 meters high and has 80,000 liters of water flowing while the show is on. Step in for a show that happens every half an hour to get mesmerized by the fountain splashing its glory with Burj Khalifa in its background.

 

Dinner

Time 8:15 PM

End your day perfectly with a delectable meal at one of the Dubai Mall eateries.

Day Two in Dubai:

A trip to Dubai is incomplete with shopping in this shopaholic’s heaven. The day two itinerary allows you to indulge in retail therapy primarily.

Dubai Gold Souk

Time 9:00 AM (2 hours)

Dubai has abundant options when it comes to gold shopping. But Deira Gold Souk is the largest gold market in the world and is loaded with a variety of 18-carat gold, 22-carat gold, diamond, and pearl jewelry. If you plan to shop be prepared to haggle for the best price as that’s the trend here.

 

Dubai Spice Souk

Time 11:00 AM (1 hour)

Dubai evokes multiple sensory sensations; the aroma is one of them. Explore the Dubai spice souk getting to know about the different kind of spices it has to offer. A wide variety of teas, nuts, oils, saffron, and dates are also available here.

 

Al Bastakiya

Time 12:00 PM (2 hours)

Al Bastakiya is the best way to explore Old Dubai. With its cafés, galleries and art installations, Al Bastakiya has significantly become popular with tourists. Head to Mawaheb Gallery, an art studio that has exhibits created by people with special needs. Visit the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding to understand the rich history of Dubai.

Lunch

Time 2:00 PM (1.5 hours)

Have authentic Arabic food at one of the cafés in Al Bastakiya.

Desert Safari

Time 3:30 PM (6 hours)

The Arabian Desert Safari should not be missed in Dubai itinerary no matter how short the duration is. The evening desert safari starts from 3:30 PM and goes on till 9:30 PM in the night. The drive to the desert campsite goes through several picture-perfect halts. At the campsite, you can indulge in activities like camel ride, sand boarding, or applying henna. The package includes a lavish dinner and belly dance performance to end your weekend on a high note.