Dubai is a city that rose from the desert sands to become a glittering metropolis of skyscrapers, luxury, and adventure, is like no other place on earth. This city is a blend of futuristic vision and traditional allure, where you can wander through bustling souks one moment and dine in a 7-star hotel the next.
But let’s say you’ve got just one day to experience the best of Dubai. How do you make the most of it?
Well, fear not, because we’re about to dive into a day-long adventure that’ll give you a taste of the city’s magic. It’s a tried and tested route by yours truly, and I can say that it’s easily doable with plenty of time (and money) to spare!
I arrived the night before and had a whole day ahead of me to explore the city before catching my flight to Amman. On arrival, they’ll give you a sim card so you’re already one step ahead. I was actually able to visit all the sites on the list without even withdrawing or exchanging for AEDs, just a credit card and a Nol Card (more on this later) can get you pretty much everywhere you need to go.
So while Dubai is known for its luxe and glamour, it’s also quite possible to see the city’s sights and wonders without breaking bank.
History of Dubai
Dubai’s history stretches back to the 18th century when it was a small settlement of about 800 members of the Bani Yas tribe. By the early 19th century, Dubai became a significant port, known for its pearl diving and fishing economy.
The discovery of oil in the 1960s marked the beginning of rapid development, although compared to its neighbors, Dubai’s oil reserves were modest. This prompted the rulers of Dubai to diversify the economy, laying the groundwork for the city we see today.
The real catalyst for change was Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, ruler from 1958 until his death in 1990. Under his vision, Dubai embarked on major infrastructure projects, including the construction of the Jebel Ali Port in 1979, the world’s largest man-made harbor, and the establishment of the Dubai World Trade Center in 1978, putting Dubai on the international trade map.
In the 1990s and 2000s, under Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Dubai’s growth accelerated further. The city opened its doors to foreign investment, leading to a construction boom that saw the rise of iconic skyscrapers, luxury residential areas, and ambitious projects like The Palm Islands and the Burj Khalifa. Tourism and real estate became major economic drivers, supported by the establishment of Emirates Airline in 1985, which connected Dubai with the rest of the world.
Top Things to Do in Dubai
1. Explore the Spice and Gold Souks
2. Cross the Dubai Creek
3. Get Lost at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Emerging from the abra at Al Fahidi, you’re transported to a Dubai that feels worlds apart from the towering structures that define its skyline. This is the Dubai of yesteryear, where the pace of life slows down, and the city’s rich history is palpable in the air.
Al Fahidi offers you a picturesque glimpse into the 19th-century life of the Emirati people.
As you meander through the narrow walkways, you’ll encounter beautifully restored sandstone houses, once home to wealthy pearl merchants. These buildings, with their iconic wind towers designed to catch and circulate the Gulf breezes, shows the ingenuity of traditional Emirati architecture in providing natural air conditioning in the desert heat.
One of the most enchanting experiences in Al Fahidi is simply wandering without a set destination. You’ll stumble upon hidden courtyards, shaded by date palms, and tranquil cafes where you can sip traditional Arabian coffee and watch the world go by.
Cost: Free
4. Visit Jumeirah Mosque
Your next stop is the Jumeirah Mosque! A must-visit if you want to have a deeper understanding of the Muslim faith.
The Jumeirah Mosque stands out for its stunning design, inspired by traditional Fatimid architecture. Its intricately detailed white facade gleams under the sun, offering a magnificent sight that’s as serene as it is awe-inspiring. Twin minarets frame the spacious central dome. At night, the mosque is lit up, casting a divine glow that seems to elevate it from the earth.
What makes the Jumeirah Mosque particularly special is its open-door policy. Managed by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, it’s one of the few mosques in Dubai that welcomes non-Muslim visitors six days a week, offering a rare opportunity to glimpse inside the world of Islam. The tours are designed not just to educate but to foster a dialogue, breaking down barriers and dispelling myths about Islam.
Cost: Free
5. Take a Break at the Dubai Mall
6. Watch a Show at Dubai Fountain
Just outside Dubai Mall, you’ll find the Dubai Fountain. Positioned on the 30-acre Burj Lake, right at the foot of the towering Burj Khalifa, this is no ordinary fountain. It’s the world’s largest choreographed fountain system!
As the sun sets and the lights dim, the Dubai Fountain springs to life in a symphony of color and sound. Powerful water jets are propelled up to 150 m (490 ft) into the air – as high as a 50-story building – dancing in harmony with a diverse range of melodies, from classical and contemporary to Arabic and world music. The visual treat is enhanced by 6,600 lights and 25 colored projectors.
Each performance is unique, with the fountain having a repertoire of over 1,000 different water expressions, ensuring that no two shows are exactly alike. This makes every visit to the Dubai Fountain a novel experience, even for those who’ve witnessed its magic before. The performances are held daily in the evening, and the best part is that viewing these spectacular shows is free!
Cost: Free
7. Admire the Burj Khalifa
No visit to Dubai would be complete without marveling at the majestic Burj Khalifa, the jewel in the city’s already dazzling crown.
Soaring into the sky at a staggering height of 828 m (2,7,17 ft), it holds the title of the world’s tallest building!
Stepping into the Burj Khalifa is like entering a world of unparalleled innovation. The journey begins with a ride up to the observation decks on one of the fastest elevators in the world, whisking you to the 124th, 125th, and the staggering 148th floors. Here, you’re greeted with panoramic views that stretch into the horizon, offering a bird’s-eye view of the city’s architectural wonders, the sprawling desert, and the glistening Persian Gulf beyond. The sight of Dubai’s cityscape, with its patchwork of traditional neighborhoods and futuristic skyscrapers, from such an immense height is truly awe-inspiring.
For those seeking an even more elevated experience, the At.mosphere restaurant on the 122nd floor provides an opportunity to dine among the clouds, offering gourmet cuisine with a view that rivals the food for your attention.
Cost: Free
8. Snap a Shot of Burj Al Arab
As dawn breaks over Dubai, one landmark captures the imagination like no other: the Burj Al Arab, often celebrated as the world’s only 7-star hotel. Rising from its own man-made island, near the shores of the stunning Jumeirah Beach, the Burj Al Arab is the epitome of luxury, an architectural marvel that has become synonymous with Dubai’s opulent lifestyle.
Designed to resemble the graceful sails of an Arabian dhow, the Burj Al Arab stands at an impressive height of 321 m (1,053 ft), dominating the Dubai skyline.
The interiors of the Burj Al Arab are as lavish as its exterior is striking. Gold leaf and marble are used extensively, creating an ambiance of sheer extravagance. The hotel boasts 202 luxurious duplex suites, each offering stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, serviced by a fleet of dedicated butlers, ensuring a personalized experience that redefines the meaning of hospitality.
Entering its premises requires that you have a reservation at one of the dining outlets or even just afternoon tea which still costs a hefty sum. As for me, I was more than happy to just view it from afar.
Cost: Free
9. Explore Madinat Jumeirah
10. Relax at Jumeirah Beach
Where to Stay in Dubai
If you’re like me and are arriving in Dubai the night before with a whole day to spend the next day, then here are some great places to stay in Dubai without breaking your wallet:
Best Hotels in Dubai:
- The First Collection Business Bay – an elegant and contemporary 4-star hotel nestled in the bustling Business Bay district. Offering a unique perk, as you can enjoy access to the Soluna Restaurants and Beach Club at The Palm, including transportation. The hotel boasts 437 well-appointed rooms with views of the Dubai Canal, stables, or the Burj Khalifa, complemented by amenities such as spacious desks, wired or WiFi internet, alongside 24-hour front desk and room service. Plus a scenic 82 ft pool with a deck overlooking the Dubai skyline.
- Rove Healthcare City – offers guests free WiFi throughout the property, a year-round outdoor pool for leisurely swims, and a 24-hour fitness center for those looking to stay active during their travels. The 286 spacious, air-conditioned rooms are designed for comfort, featuring seating areas with flat-screen TVs and coffee-making facilities, with the option for interconnecting rooms upon request.
- Arabian Park Dubai – boasts 328 modern, bright guestrooms with contemporary furnishings, cutting-edge technology, and views of Dubai’s skyline. With four dining venues, including a 24-hour cafe and an all-day dining restaurant, flexible meeting rooms equipped with the latest technology, a fully equipped gym, and an outdoor temperature-controlled swimming pool.
Best Hostels in Dubai:
- Torch 77 – offers a unique lodging experience with its shared lounge, terrace, and captivating city views. The hostel stands out with its array of amenities designed for relaxation and entertainment, including an outdoor swimming pool, sauna, gym, steam bath, and evening entertainment, alongside a shared kitchen for guests’ convenience. Accommodations feature shared bathrooms equipped with a bidet and hairdryer, free WiFi, and certain rooms boast sea views. All rooms are air-conditioned and come with a wardrobe.
- Alphatel Beach Hostel JBR – boasts 286 air-conditioned rooms, complete with flat-screen TVs, Netflix, PlayStation, and a kitchen stocked with appliances. A large balcony offers stunning views of the Dubai Marina Yacht Club and the city, while the hostel’s commitment to cleanliness ensures a pleasant stay with services including vacuuming and sanitizing bathrooms. Whether it’s for relaxation in the sauna, a swim in the outdoor pool, or a workout in the gym, Alphatel Beach Hostel JBR caters to every need.
- Grays Hostel – designed for both comfort and convenience, featuring cozy beds and clean mattresses alongside dedicated workspaces. The communal areas, including a spacious dining table and balcony, offer perfect spots for relaxation and socializing, while the TV and games area, along with a foosball table, provide ample entertainment. Facilities such as a shared kitchen, swimming pool, gym, and laundry service enhance the experience, ensuring a comfortable stay. With free Wi-Fi and complimentary coffee and tea available.
How to Get Around Dubai
Navigating Dubai as a tourist is surprisingly easy, thanks to the city’s modern and efficient public transportation system. Here’s how to get around Dubai:
- Metro: The Dubai Metro is a world-class, fully automated, driverless railway system. It’s not only a cost-effective way to get around, but also offers the added benefit of scenic views of Dubai’s skyline. There are two main lines: the Red Line, which runs from the UAE Exchange to Rashidiya, passing through major attractions like the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, and the Dubai International Airport; and the Green Line, which circles around the Deira and Bur Dubai areas. The trains are clean, efficient, and run at regular intervals.
- Tram: The Dubai Tram runs along Al Sufouh Road and JBR, connecting major attractions and residential areas, including the Marina, JBR, and the Palm Jumeirah. It’s especially useful for tourists staying in these areas. The tram interfaces with the Jumeirah Lakes Towers Metro Station and the Dubai Marina Metro Station.
- Bus: Air-conditioned and comfortable, these buses connect all major neighborhoods, landmarks, and even other emirates. Affordable and convenient.
- Taxi: Taxis are plentiful and reasonably priced in Dubai. They’re a convenient option for direct travel to destinations not easily accessible by public transport. Dubai also supports ride-hailing apps like Uber and the local equivalent, Careem.
For ease of use across various modes of public transport, the Nol Card is your best friend. It’s a prepaid card that can be topped up as needed. There are four types of Nol Cards to choose from: Red (a paper-based card ideal for tourists, valid for 10 trips or 5 daily passes), Silver (a rechargeable card with a balance up to AED 1000, suitable for frequent users), Gold (provides access to exclusive Gold Class cabins on the Metro and Tram), and Blue (a personalized card with the same benefits as Silver, plus online top-up options). You can purchase and top up Nol Cards at any metro station, bus station, and some convenience stores.
How to Stay Safe in Dubai
Best Time to Visit Dubai
The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March, during the city’s winter season. This period offers a pleasant climate with average temperatures ranging from 17°C to 30°C (63°F to 86°F), making it ideal for exploring the outdoors, whether it’s wandering through the city’s bustling souks, enjoying the beautiful beaches, or taking part in desert safaris.
However, it’s worth noting that this peak tourist season also sees higher accommodation rates and more crowded attractions. For those seeking better deals and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of late March, April, October, and early November offer slightly warmer temperatures but still comfortable conditions for travel, albeit with the possibility of some occasional rain in March and April.
Summer months, from June to September, are marked by extreme heat, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F), along with high humidity. While this period sees fewer tourists and lower hotel rates, outdoor activities can be uncomfortable and sometimes hazardous due to the heat. (I know this quite well because I was there during this time.) On the upside, indoor attractions like the Dubai Mall, indoor ski slopes, and numerous waterparks offer respite and fun.
Plan Your Trip to Dubai | Best Travel Resources
Book Your Accommodations
- Booking.com – the world’s leading online booking platform for accomodations around the world, they have an extensive amount of available listings with zero booking fees and best price guarantees.
- Hostelworld – a backpacker’s best friend, Hostelworld has the largest collection of hostels and guesthouses for affordable prices.
Don’t Forget Insurance
- SafetyWing – from Nomad Insurance, an insurance by nomads for nomads. They understand our lifestyle well and have really comprehensive and flexible plans that cater to any traveler.
Find Cheap Flights
- Kiwi.com – my go-to for booking and finding the cheapest flights and it’s helped me save tons of money. They do virtual interlining which is connecting flights from airlines that do not codeshare, so you can find routes that you wouldn’t be able to find normally.
Join Tours & Activities
- GetYourGuide – is one of the best places to find unique tours and activities. I found that it’s an excellent way to meet fellow travelers and create fond memories. They are not only limited to tours as they also offer niche services such as skip-the-line tickets or private transfers.
Catch a Ride
- Rentalcars.com – nothing beats the freedom of the road, Rentalcars.com is the world’s largest online car rental service. They operate across 160 countries so they’re the perfect partner to work with if you find yourself wanting a ride.
