How to Spend 3 Days in Dubai – A Comprehensive Guide

Are you looking for things to do for three days in Dubai, the United Arab Emirates’ top destination for tourists? Well, look no further! As a city with an abundance of different iconic sights, thrilling activities, and one of the best shopping scenes in the world, there’s sure to be something for everyone!

Day 1: Sightseeing in Dubai

The first day should be dedicated to seeing some of the most iconic sights in the city.

Burj Khalifa

No trip to Dubai is complete without taking in the view from the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. The observation deck is located on the 124th floor, with the elevators taking you up in just a minute! The 828 meter building not only boasts stunning views of Dubai but is home to skyscrapers, malls, and much more.

Dubai Fountains

No view of Dubai is complete without catching the Dubai Fountains. They’re situated at the heart of the city, at Burj Khalifa Lake, and are choreographed to stunning classical and modern music . The show runs every 30 minutes starting at 18:00, so you’ll have plenty of time to check out the view and make some great memories.

Downtown Dubai

Walk down Sheik Zayed Road and explore Downtown Dubai—home to the world’s tallest tower and one of the most extravagant shopping experiences you’ll ever find! Downtown is stocked with luxury malls like The Dubai Mall, which houses 1200+ global brands, an Aquarium, ice rink and much more.

Gold Souk

Wander through mystical alleys full of precious metals, gems and stones at the famous Gold Souk. Located in Old Dubai, this is a visual treat of bling and baubles that is sure to leave a lasting impression on its visitors.

Day 2: Adventure Time

On day two, you can explore some of the thrilling activities that Dubai has to offer.

Skydiving

Experience the ultimate daredevil adventure with a skydive over Palm Jumeirah. Soar above the beautiful skyline of Dubai and fly like a bird while taking in panoramic views.

Desert Safari

Venture over sand dunes on a fascinating journey through the desert. This adventure includes a dessert drive and an array of activities like dune bashing, sand boarding, quad biking, camel riding, and fire shows. Some desert safari packages include BBQ dinners and Arabic wear and henna painting, so you can experience local customs.

Helicopter Tour

Take in the most captivating view of Dubai from a bird’s eye perspective during a helicopter tour. These tours last for about 20 minutes and give you stunning aerial views of landmarks such as Palm Jumeirah, Palm Islands and much more.

Day 3: Shopping & Culture

On day three it’s time to experience local cultures and shop “til you drop!

The Spice Souk & Textile Souk

Visit Old Dubai and explore two of its most historical attractions—the spice souk and textile souk. Take a walk inside them and sniff, touch and experience different spices like saffron, frankincense and cardamom. Choose from an exquisite collection of textiles like carpets, colorful fabrics, and floor cushions, with intricate patterns that reveal stories about UAE tradition & culture.

Emirates Mall & Ibn Battuta Mall

Dubai has some seriously good shopping experiences with one of the most popular being Emirates Mall. This mall boasts a twenty-four-carat ice rink, a ski resort with real snow, and over 1200 shops that span across 1.12 million square feet! The Ibn Battuta Mall takes shopping experiences to the next level with its six courts spanning over 4 million sq ft! Each court is themed around different parts of the expanders travels with dazzling architecture.

Discover Dubai Like a Local

If you want to explore more than just these attractions, take a city tour with Discover Dubai Like a Local. This tour takes you through Old Dubai while being lead by friendly locals who give you detailed information about their history or the city’s culture, customs, food & lifestyle. They craft experiences that showcase parts of Dubai that most tourists don’t get to experience.
At the end of your stay, you’ll have had experiences which have revealed all that makes this city so vibrant and exciting. With stunning skylines from observation decks, thrilling activities such as skydiving or desert safaris waiting for you exploration for culture and shopping can give you plenty of time for leisurely strolls as well!

An Insider’s Guide to Dubai

Dubai is a city that has long captivated the world with its wealth, glitz, and glamour. But beyond the towering skyscrapers and luxurious shopping malls, there are hidden gems that only locals know about. As an insider, here’s my guide to the real Dubai that will leave you awestruck.

Local Attractions – Hidden Gems Only Locals Know

Dubai is famous for its tourist attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Palm Jumeirah. But there are hidden gems that only locals know about. One such gem is the historic Al Bastakiya neighborhood. It has traditional architecture, colorful alleyways, street art murals, and quaint cafes. Another gem is the Dubai Miracle Garden, which is the world’s largest flower garden, with over 45 million flowers. If you’re into art, head to Alserkal Avenue, which is a hub for galleries and creative spaces showcasing local and international art.

Dining Spots – Experience the Local Cuisine and Culture

Dubai offers a diverse array of cuisines, reflecting its cosmopolitan population. But to experience the authentic local cuisine, head to Bu Qtair, a rustic seafood restaurant by the beach that has been around since the 1980s. The local Emirati cuisine is centered around rice, meat, and spices, and Aseelah restaurant at the Radisson Blu Hotel is a great place to try it out. For a taste of Arabia, head to Al Mallah, a legendary Lebanese fast-food chain that has been serving shawarmas since 1979.

Cultural Experiences – Traditions, Festivals, and Customs

Dubai’s culture is a blend of the old and the new, with influences from Arabia, Islam, and the West. One of the most unique cultural experiences is the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, which offers a glimpse into the Bedouin way of life and has traditional activities such as camel rides, falconry shows, and stargazing. The Dubai Opera is a cultural icon, showcasing opera, ballet, music, and theater performances throughout the year. To experience Ramadan, head to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, where you can break fast with locals and learn about Islamic traditions.

Local History – Captivating Stories from the Past

Dubai’s history goes back thousands of years, with evidence of civilizations dating back to the Bronze Age. One captivating story is the rise of Dubai from a small fishing village to a thriving metropolis in just a few decades. The Dubai Museum, located in the historic Al Fahidi Fort, showcases the history of Dubai and its transformation. Another fascinating story is the tale of Pearl Diving, which was a major industry in Dubai before oil was discovered. The Dubai Pearl Museum offers a glimpse into this rich history.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions – Unforgettable and Unique Experiences

To truly experience the hidden side of Dubai, head to Hatta, a picturesque enclave nestled in the Hajar Mountains, known for its natural beauty and outdoor activities such as hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking. For a unique experience, head to Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort where you can ski and snowboard in the desert. To escape the crowds, head to Bluewaters Island, a new development that offers shopping, dining, and entertainment, as well as stunning views of the Dubai skyline.

In conclusion, Dubai has something for everyone, and as an insider, I hope this guide has provided a fresh perspective on this magnificent city. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, these hidden gems, cultural experiences, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions will make your stay in Dubai unforgettable.