Welcome to the vibrant city of Dubai, where modernity meets tradition in a captivating blend of culture, architecture, and adventure. From navigating transportation to exploring iconic landmarks, here’s your ultimate guide to experiencing the best of Dubai.
Navigating Dubai: Your Arrival Guide
Touching down at Dubai International Airport marks the beginning of your escapade. Flying into Terminal 2 requires a taxi ride or a brisk walk to the nearest RTA Metro station (1.5 km). But flying into Terminals 1 and 3 seamlessly connect to the city’s public transport, ensuring swift access to the city’s pulsating core. Arm yourself with a NOL Silver card for hassle-free journeys—a small investment that unlocks endless possibilities. The NOL Silver card cost 6 AED to get the card but if you buy individual tickets at the counter they will charge you 2 AED to print the ticket on top of the cost of the ride so if you are going to take more than 3 rides, the silver card is a better choice. Need directions? Google Maps is your trusty companion, while ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem offer convenient transportation options.
Stay Connected, Stay Prepared
To phone or not to phone? That’s the question, but fret not—Dubai’s extensive Wi-Fi coverage renders constant connectivity a breeze. However, if you prefer the reassurance of cellular service, numerous stores in the airport and throughout the city offer convenient plans. As for currency concerns, Dubai’s embrace of plastic or mobile payments means you can glide through transactions with ease. Just remember to stash some cash for Old Souk souvenir shopping sprees, where bargaining is an art form and cards might not cut it.
Choosing Your Haven: Where to Rest Your Weary Feet
Dubai’s accommodation landscape caters to every taste and budget, from budget-friendly hostels to opulent penthouses. For a blend of authenticity and accessibility, consider the Old Al Seef neighborhood—a lively enclave teeming with markets and culinary delights, yet conveniently nestled near the Red Line RTA Metro for city-wide exploration. Whether you crave the historic charm of the Old Souk area, the urban sophistication of downtown, or the seaside allure of the Marina, Dubai offers a haven tailored to your desires.
Essential Tips and Tricks
Hydration is key in Dubai’s spicy climate, where water bottles are a traveler’s best friend. While most establishments charge for H2O, savvy explorers can refill for free at select water filling stations in Al Seef and Dubai Marina or stock up at nearby stores to avoid markups. I would definitely recommend you buy water outside of Dubai Mall and bring it in as most restaurants upcharge and the only grocery store or convenience store we found was tucked behind the Time Out Market so it was harder to find. Water is essential when walking in Dubai!
Planning a visit? Optimal times are October through March, when the sun’s warmth is tempered by cool breezes and indoor oases offer respite from the heat. Dressing in loose, breathable layers ensures comfort and cultural respect—a must for any discerning traveler.
Crafting Your Dubai Odyssey: A 3-Day Walking Itinerary
Day 1 invites you to stroll through the storied alleys of the old souk in Al Seef and Al Fahadid neighborhoods, sampling local delicacies at charming eateries like Arabian Tea House Restaurant & Cafe. We recommend the Arabian Breakfast to get a good taste of the local food (haloumi cheese, cream and honey, olives, pita breads, and jams) . Also try a pot of their Karak Tea, it’s a local sweet milk black tea that is the perfect way to complement the meal.
Delve into the bustling markets of Bur Dubai Souk, near the Shree Krishna Hindu temple, then take a boat across the Dubai Creek (using the same NOL Metro transit card, buy your tickets at any stop along the creek) to Gold and Spice Souk, where haggling is an art and treasures await around every corner. Walk around these unique markets shopping for gold, spices, and souvenirs. This is a great place to haggle the prices down. It’s not offensive and it’s expected to barter. They will start with a higher price but make sure you get the deal you want. You can also get better deals if you bundle. So let’s say you are going to buy a scarf, a camel plushie and a flag. Get them all at the same vendor and barter a group price.
Also make sure you bring cash to pay at these small vendors. Most do not accept credit card. Stop by and visit our friend Yousef to learn about Iranian tea, herbs, and natural remedies. To cap off your day with dinner, sit outside like the locals and have a grilled half chicken or kebabs at any vendor as the city bustles around you.
Day 2 promises a whirlwind adventure through Dubai’s modern marvels. From the architectural splendor of the Frame to the sensory delights of the Dubai Mall, every step unveils a new facet of the city’s grandeur so get your walking shoes on because today you can do 15km or more.
Walk to the Frame (the largest free standing frame that symbolizes the movement from old to new in the city). Then walk straight south to the Future Museum which has an absolutely stunning exterior. We recommend taking a break to sit near the pond out front on the benches to admire the lush greenery and architectural wonder that is the museum. We’ve never been inside the museum but walking through the lobby is interesting enough! Then continue walking south to the DIFC Mall which is basically like a mall in a straight line, a few blocks long. It was great to beat the heat and be inside for part of our walk.
Finally, walk over to the Dubai Mall. You can spend days here checking out all the restaurants and shops. Also inside the same mall is a brand new Chinatown, a full sized ice skating rink, and a very large aquarium for your viewing pleasure. For lunch we had the best burger at Black Tap. Sit outside on the patio for an exquisite view of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. If you want to visit the top of the Burj Khalifa, you can go through the food court in the Dubai Mall following signs for the View at the Top. It cost around $50 and is an amazing experience if you want to see as far as you can in all directions. I’d recommend booking tickets online in advance because they do sell out.
Time Out Market is across the lake and a great place to catch the Dubai Water Fountains which has an incredible show daily starting at 6pm. It’s not to be missed!
Day 3 beckons you to Dubai Marina Boardwalk, where palm-fringed promenades offer a taste of paradise. Take the Red Line train to DMCC Metro stop and walk towards the water for the Dubai Marina Boardwalk. This area is amazing, it’s like being in Hawaii with all the water, beaches, palm trees and swimsuits. Cross the pedestrian bridge to Bluewaters for panoramic views and culinary delights. Here you can also catch a ride on the Dubai Eye which is the world’s largest Ferris wheel.
Starting to get the hint that the Emirates love all things larger than life? The boardwalk has so many restaurant options. We recommend Bounty Beets in Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina for the best gluten free brunch we’ve ever had. Next venture over to Palm Jumeirah—a testament to human ingenuity amidst the Arabian Gulf’s azure embrace as it’s a man made island in the shape of a palm tree. There are excellent restaurants lining the shores of whole island.
Beyond the City Limits: Unveiling Dubai’s Hidden Gems
Venture beyond the city’s confines to uncover a world of wonders. Embark on a desert dune ride for an adrenaline-fueled escapade, or explore the global tapestry of Global Village. Seek solace amidst the blooms of Dubai Butterfly Garden or embark on a day trip to Abu Dhabi, just a stone’s throw away.
Desert camping can be done in other GCC countries as well. Highly recommend the Wahiba Sands in Oman. Global Village is a hike as it’s at least a 40 minute cab ride. Abu Dhabi is only 90 minutes away but if you only have a few days, I’d recommend staying in Dubai and going to Abu Dhabi another time. If you have more than 3 days, Abu Dhabi is doable in a day trip.
With its fusion of tradition and innovation, Dubai invites travelers on a journey of discovery—a tapestry of experiences waiting to be woven into the fabric of your adventure.
