Got 72 hours to explore this Middle Eastern metropolis? Get ready to experience all the glitz, glam and desert adventures that Dubai has to offer.
Here’s how to do all your sightseeing in Dubai in just 3 days…
DAY 1
Daytime
Dubai is packed full of skyscrapers and record-breaking attractions. You’ll see some of the tallest and most unique structures in the world, along with giant aquariums, impressive fountains and mega malls. Dedicate the first day of your trip to touring the main sights and seeing them all.
There’s the Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world at a huge 828 metres. The Dubai Mall, which has no less than 1,300 shops, a mini theme park and even a huge aquarium inside. And, the Dubai fountain, which is the world's largest choreographed fountain set on a manmade 30-acre lake. When it comes to cultural sights (yes they do exist in Dubai) there’s the Dubai Museum and Heritage Village, where you’ll get an insight into emirate life, and several souks where you can browse handmade treasures and haggle for a bargain.
Join a hop-on, hop-off bus tour with a dedicated guide to see all the main sights in one go and have the opportunity to stop at any that take your fancy. Your guide will give you all the facts and information about every landmark you see, plus tips on how to make the most of your stay.
City Tour – Red Route
Evening
Spend your first evening in Dubai at a sky-high bar, enjoying views of the whole city from up above. There’s the Skyview bar at the Burj Al Arab and Uptown at the Jumeirah Beach Hotel.
Or, see the city again in all its illuminated glory by taking a guided night tour around all the skyscrapers.
Night Tour
Day 2
Daytime
On your second day in the city, explore The Palm and Marina Walk. The famous manmade island, The Palm, can be seen from space and the huge hotel that sits on its site is Atlantis the Palm. Here you can visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium, swim with the dolphins at Dolphin Bay, or ride Dubai’s tallest slide at the Aquaventure water park.
After you’ve exhausted the activities at Atlantis The Palm head to the Dubai Marina Walk. Stroll the palm tree-lined promenade enjoying views of the water and skyscrapers surrounding it. There are over 300 outlet stores and 60 restaurants to duck into for a quick shopping spree or cool down drink. You can also take boat trips from here around the bay, with the option of water taxis, guided cruises or traditional dhow boats.
Lost Chambers Aquarium Tickets
Aquaventure Waterpark Tickets
Marina Tour - Blue Route
Evening
There’s nothing quite like getting out onto the desert sands, and you’ve got plenty of safari tours to choose from. If you go during the day, you can try your hand at quad biking, sand skiing and camel riding. Or, head there after sunset to see the stars and enjoy a BBQ dinner on the Arabian sands. You’ll be treated to cultural performances like belly dancing and fire breathing, and then get the chance to stargaze in a Bedouin tent.
DAY 3
Daytime
One of the best things about Dubai are the out-of-this-world attractions and unique entertainment options which are all in close proximity to each other. You can spend the morning on the beach and the afternoon at a ski slope – yes really.
Spend your third day in the city doing just that. Make a beeline for the Jumeirah Public Beach where you can enjoy the soft sands, top up your tan, and take plenty of snaps of the Arabian Gulf views and the Burj Al Arab. If you love to get active, there are so many watersports to try, from windsurfing and waterskiing to banana boat rides and jet skiing. There’s even an inflatable waterpark to try out if you’re feeling brave. In true Dubai style, it’s of course the world’s largest.
Evening
After all that sunbathing, it’s time to cool down on the slopes. Head to Ski Dubai in the Mall of the Emirates where you can ski, snowboard, toboggan or zip line across the powdery stuff to your heart’s content. There’s also a snow park with rides, slides and even penguins to entertain little ones.
Ski Dubai Tickets
Beach Tour - Green Route
Holidays to Dubai are all about record-breaking attractions, spice-scented souks and powder-soft beaches. Plan your Dubai itinerary well and, even if you’ve only got 72 hours in the city, you’ll be able to pack in a lot. And if you've got longer in this Middle Eastern metropolis, click here for more ideas on how to fill your time.
