The largest man-made island, the tallest architecture in the world, the exquisite restaurant, the sight of the emirate from the highest observation deck, the non-stop fun and kingsize life, Dubai has created magic on the planet. Don’t get overwhelmed as we help you cover the best of the lot in just 2 days.
From waterparks to desert safari in Dubai, here is the tried and tested 2-day Dubai itinerary that is the recipe of your perfect holiday.
Day 1 8.00 Am
Palm Jumeirah
A feather in Dubai’s engineering cap is this astonishing development. World’s largest artificial island shaped like a palm tree is brimming with attractions, activities and amusements. There are tons of cool things to do here. Stroll on the Jumeirah Beach Residence Walk which looks mesmerising when the towers light up with the backdrop of sun-striking sky. Dotted by a multitude of restaurants and cafes, it is one of the fancy places to hang out in free and savour breakfast. If you want to sunbathe and unwind nearby the beaches, duck inside the beach clubs and lounges. They are accompanied by spas and infinity pools making it a great deal of self-care and pampering. Encounter 65,000 marine life in the Lost Chambers Aquarium with the complimentary shark feeding show. The best part is you’ll find the food trucks serving some local dishes at cheap stakes. So, keep on touring around and feeding your taste buds with yummy snacks on the go. Do not forget taking pictures, because this man-made island is the trademark of Dubai.
Atlantis The Palm
It is one mega-resort with things for all ages. It has captivating waterfalls, record-breaking rides, an underground aquarium, vibrant clubs and deluxe suites. Unleash your inner child at the huge Aquaventure Water park in the fresh morning as it introduces pristine beaches, children’s play area and dolphins bay. There are 30 slides and attractions to pump you up, a lazy river to keep you sane and a vertical waterslide to make your jaw drop.
Dubai Marina
In the same spirit, ride towards its neighbour, Dubai Marina; the flawless set of luxury and recreation. It boasts an array of tall residential towers, unique architecture, swanky malls, exuberant events, world-class hotels and rooftop bars. Some fine examples of what all you can see here are Princess Tower, The Torch, 23 Marina, Cayan Tower, Marina 101, Mall of the Emirates, Elite Residence, Atlantis Hotel and Palm Jumeirah. To explore these skyscrapers and other, book a speedboat tour. It takes you around with the splash of water. Later, shop your heart out at Mall of the Emirates, ski within the comforts of Ski Dubai, swim in the sea, play sports on the sand, and fly over the marina.
2.00 Pm
Dubai Mall
The malls and stores in Dubai are air-conditioned and thus, an afternoon plan can be best inside one of these. So, choose the premium of all, the Dubai Mall. From the trending Fashion Avenue to the widest array of family entertainment, the mall fits right in your plan. Go on a shopping spree with over 200 coveted brands, watch movies in ultra-luxurious cinemas, and eat all kinds of cuisine under one roof. Apart from these conventional things that you can do in a mall, this one of the world’s largest malls has a gigantic dinosaur reef, artificial humans falling over the waterfall, a fun way to teach kids about the world at KidZania, interaction with marine life at Dubai Aquarium, sport course at Dubai Ice Rink, and the first haunted attraction in the region Hysteria.
Dubai Fountain
Don’t miss out on the world’s largest choreographed fountain. This is an extraordinary display of water sprouting on the beats of music. Set in the 12-hectare mand made Burj Khalifa Lake, it looks bewitching from both places, Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa, especially in the evening. Water undulates gracefully making it hard to believe that it isn’t a trained being and is just water.
5.00 Pm
Burj Khalifa
The day gets more interesting by the evening when you ascend the world’s tallest free-structure, Burj Khalifa. Right from the fastest elevator in the world scrolling at 10m/sec to the unparalleled panoramic views of the emirate, the Burj Khalifa is everything extravagant. It features three levels of the observation deck, at 124th, 125th and 148th floor. The highest observation deck has an outdoor terrace and a premium lounge to soak up in unmatched view. Level 125 introduces you to the Arabian arts and Mashrabiya theme along with a 360-degree view of the city while Level 124 brings you closer to the world through a telescope.
At.Mosphere
Taste the opulence of Dubai by booking a table at the incomparable restaurant At.Mosphere, situated on the 122nd floor. It has some exotic dishes on the menu that would take you on an unforgettable gastronomical journey. Needless to say, the service you will receive here will dictate how warm, inviting and luxurious the facilities in Dubai are.
Day 2 – 7.00 Am
Old Dubai
Since the first day was a lot about glam and glitz, it’s time you head towards the traditional roads of Dubai. Discover the busier daily lives, cramped streets and narrow alleys. Be dazzled by the minute artistry around and the well-preserved heritage. Scour through the old souks filled with sparkling gold, strong perfumes and aromatic spices. This unending row of artefacts and materials display will keep you glued for long and is a great place for shopping.
Dubai Creek
To get an authentic taste of it, drive on the waters of Dubai Creek by the traditional boat, Abra. This creek served the purpose of fishing and pearling even before the oil was discovered. The Abra is 1 Dirham-priced transfer that glides by the historic buildings from Deira to Bur Dubai, and back. Few classic attractions that you will stumble upon are Dubai Heritage Village, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s House, Dubai Museum, and Bastakiya Quarter. The Bastakiya Quarter is a favourite tourist destination with aesthetically-made and vintage-looking Arabian homes where rich merchants lived.
12.00 Pm
Dubai Frame
It is another engineering feat of the city located in the Zabeel Park and very close to the Creek. This is a big frame-like structure that has a see-through in the centre, which means a person standing in front of the building could glare at what lies behind it. The mezzanine floor is a gallery showcasing blast from the past, as to how the metropolis transformed from a fishing village. Standing at 150 m, once you reach the observation deck, you will witness a sweeping view of both phases of Dubai, the old houses and creek to the North and the marvellous New Dubai to the south. The 25 sqm clear glass bridge offers a thrilling walk as if nothing is beneath your feet. When you descend downwards leaving the deck behind, the visitors can enjoy the vision of Dubai through interactive visuals.
2.00 Pm
Desert Safari
Desert Safari is something you don’t do every day. So, let’s wrap the 2nd day with a kick to the adrenaline rush in the endless desert. This is a 6-hour desert excursion. Moreover, this gives you a crazy opportunity to see live sunset in the red desert which is about 45 minutes from the city. The safari has an adventurous streak of dune bashing, quad biking, camel riding, and sandboarding. You can customise the options according to what you want to try your hands on. Thereafter, the travellers reach the Bedouin camp where exclusive arrangements are made. Admire the jewel of Arabian culture, the belly dancing and Tanoura show. Get your hands a beautiful henna design, wear an Arabian dress, and sip unlimited shisha. Lastly, devour the ultimate buffet that has starters, barbecue dishes, dessert and lot more to keep your delighted.
Visiting Dubai for a day or two or a month, it guarantees a holiday of high-spirit and joy.