Dubai Dreaming: Your Perfect 5-Day Itinerary For The Megacity

Waquar Habib

Dubai

Dubai is a luxurious city in the UAE, known for modern architecture, high-end shopping, and lively nightlife. It boasts the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, alongside many more attractions perfect for a holiday with your family.

Dubai skyline | Shutterstock

Day 1: Morning

Begin your day by exploring the history of Dubai at Al Fahidi Fort's Dubai Museum. Stroll through the Al Fahidi Historic District, featuring traditional wind-tower architecture. It functions from 8:30 am to 8:30 pm.

Al Fahidi Fort's Dubai Museum | Shutterstock

Afternoon

Cross the Dubai Creek on an abra to visit the Spice and Gold Souks and the Heritage Village to experience traditional Bedouin life.

Dubai Heritage Village | Shutterstock

Evening

Dine at a traditional Arabic restaurant in Al Fahidi. Take a stroll along Dubai Creek at night when it is lit up with lights that dance on the water and buildings.

Dubai Creek | Shutterstock

Day 2: Morning

When in Dubai, don't miss the opportunity to visit the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building. Make sure to buy your observation deck tickets beforehand, and once you're done, explore the surrounding Dubai Mall for shopping and entertainment.

Burj Khalifa | Shutterstock

Afternoon

When visiting Dubai Mall, take a break and enjoy a delicious lunch at one of the many restaurants. Afterwards, explore the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo located inside the mall.

Dubai Aquarium | Shutterstock

Evening

Past 6 PM, head to the Dubai Fountain area to watch the famous fountain show. Later, enjoy dinner at a restaurant with a view of the Burj Khalifa and the fountain show.

Aerial view of the Dubai Fountain | Shutterstock

Day 3: Morning

Head to the desert safari adventure region that lets you explore the Arabian desert and reserve a morning for relaxation or spa time.

Jeep safari in Dubai | Shutterstock

Afternoon

Embark on an adventurous desert safari starting in the afternoon. Enjoy dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding while also trying your hands on sunset photography, barbecue, hot air balloons, and stargazing.

Hot air balloon in the deserts of Dubai | Shutterstock

Evening

End your day in a traditional Arabic dinner at a desert camp under the stars. At the safari places, you can get a 4-course dinner of local favourites like lamb ouzi, kibbeh, the popular Arabic doughnut Luquimat and more.

Arabic doughnut Luquimat | Shutterstock

Day 4: Morning

Enjoy a calm and relaxing morning at one of Dubai's beaches, such as JBR Beach or Kite Beach. Kite Beach is an excellent option as it offers vast stretches of soft white sand, lively sights and sounds, fitness areas, a beach library, and kids' activities, among other things.

Kite Beach, Dubai | Shutterstock

Afternoon

Visit Madinat Jumeirah—a mini-city with traditional architecture, shops and restaurants. The market here is the world's largest shopping, tourism, entertainment and leisure project, showcasing the cultures of 90 different countries.

The Madinat Souk at Madinat Jumeirah | Shutterstock

Evening

Explore the area around the Burj Al Arab and take photos of the iconic hotel. Have dinner at one of the restaurants of your pick in Madinat Jumeirah.

Burj Al Arab | Shutterstock

Day 5: Morning

Explore Dubai's cultural scene with a visit to the Dubai Opera, a performing arts centre in Downtown Dubai with 2,000 seats. Alternatively, take a stroll around the City Walk area.

Dubai Opera | Shutterstock

Afternoon

Discover contemporary art and design at Dubai Design District (d3). Check out Dubai Mall or Mall of the Emirates for last-minute shopping.

Dubai Mall | Shutterstock

Evening

Dine at a trendy city restaurant and visit a rooftop bar, giving you a magical 360-degree view of the city to contemplate your stay. Walk around the city a little before readying yourself for departure.

Museum of the Future in Dubai | Shutterstock

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