What to do in Dubai For 3 Days? Travel Tips

Explore the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah, and Desert Safari on a 3-day Dubai trip. Visit souks for a cultural experience.

Dubai offers a blend of modern marvels and cultural heritage. Start with the iconic Burj Khalifa for panoramic city views. Visit the Dubai Mall for shopping and entertainment. Discover the Palm Jumeirah’s luxurious resorts and beaches. Experience the traditional side of Dubai at the Gold and Spice Souks.

A desert safari provides adventure with dune bashing and camel rides. This itinerary ensures you experience the best of Dubai in a short time.

Day 1: Exploring Old Dubai

Dubai is a city that blends the old with the new. If you have only three days, start by exploring Old Dubai. This area is rich in history and offers a glimpse into the city’s past. Here’s a guide to make the most of your first day.

Morning: Visit Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Begin your day at the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. This area, also known as Al Bastakiya, is one of the oldest parts of Dubai. Stroll through the narrow lanes and discover traditional Emirati architecture.

Don’t miss these attractions:

• Al Fahidi Fort – Home to the Dubai Museum, this fort offers insights into Dubai’s history (how to get there).
• Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding – Learn about Emirati culture and traditions.
• Coin Museum – See a collection of rare coins from different eras.

Take your time exploring the art galleries, museums, and cafes. Capture photos of the wind towers and courtyards. If you love art, visit the XVA Gallery for contemporary works.

End your morning with a cup of traditional Arabic coffee at one of the local cafes. This will give you a taste of local hospitality.

Afternoon: Explore Dubai Creek And Bastakiya Quarter

After lunch, head to Dubai Creek. This saltwater creek divides the city into Deira and Bur Dubai. Start with a traditional abra ride across the creek. The ride offers stunning views of the waterfront and the bustling souks.

Attractions to explore:

• Gold Souk – A marketplace filled with glittering gold jewelry.
• Spice Souk – A fragrant market with spices, herbs, and incense.
• Textile Souk – Discover a variety of fabrics and traditional clothing.

Next, visit the Bastakiya Quarter. This area is a maze of narrow lanes and historic buildings. Spend time at the Dubai Museum to learn about the city’s transformation.

Walk along the creekside and enjoy the old-world charm. The area is perfect for a leisurely stroll and offers many photo opportunities.

Evening: Dinner At Souk Madinat Jumeirah

End your day with dinner at Souk Madinat Jumeirah. This modern marketplace has a traditional Arabian feel. It’s a great place for dining and shopping.

Dining options:

• Al Makan Restaurant – Offers traditional Arabic cuisine.
• The Meat Co. – Known for its steaks and international dishes.
• Pai Thai – A Thai restaurant with stunning views.

After dinner, take a walk along the waterways. The souk is beautifully lit at night, creating a magical atmosphere. You can also enjoy live music and entertainment.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah offers a mix of high-end boutiques and souvenir shops. It’s the perfect place to buy gifts and mementos. Spend your evening soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

Day 2: Modern Dubai

Dubai is a city that never ceases to amaze. Over three days, you can explore its rich history and modern marvels. On Day 2, dive into Modern Dubai, experiencing its iconic skyscrapers, luxurious malls, and vibrant nightlife. Here’s a detailed guide to make the most of your second day in this dazzling city.

Morning: Visit Burj Khalifa And Dubai Mall

Start your day with a visit to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Pre-book your tickets to avoid long queues. The observation deck on the 148th floor offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. Don’t forget your camera; the views are spectacular!

After soaking in the views, head to the Dubai Mall located right next to Burj Khalifa. It’s one of the largest shopping malls globally, offering a range of activities:

• Shopping: Over 1,200 retail stores, including high-end brands.
• Dining: More than 200 food and beverage outlets.
• Entertainment: The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, an Olympic-sized ice rink, and a VR Park.

Here’s a quick look at some must-visit places within the Dubai Mall:

Attraction	Highlight
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo	Walk through the 48-meter tunnel and see marine life up close.
VR Park	Experience cutting-edge virtual reality games and rides.
The Waterfall	A stunning, multi-story installation that’s a perfect photo spot.

Spend your morning exploring these incredible attractions before heading to your next destination.

Afternoon: Enjoy Dubai Marina And Jbr Walk

Post-lunch, make your way to the Dubai Marina. It’s a stunning waterfront with impressive skyscrapers and luxury yachts. A Marina Walk is a great way to see the area. You can also opt for a boat tour for a unique perspective.

After exploring Dubai Marina, head to the JBR Walk. This bustling promenade is lined with shops, cafes, and restaurants. It’s a great place for a leisurely stroll or some shopping. If you’re feeling adventurous, try some water sports on the beach.

Here are some activities you can enjoy at Dubai Marina and JBR Walk:

• Boat Tours: Choose from traditional dhow cruises or luxury yacht charters.
• Dining: Numerous dining options, from casual cafes to fine-dining restaurants.
• Shopping: Explore boutique stores and high-end fashion outlets.
• Beach Activities: Jet skiing, parasailing, and paddleboarding.

Don’t miss the Flying Cup at JBR, a ride that elevates you 40 meters above the ground, offering panoramic views of the city. It’s a thrilling experience!

Evening: Experience The Dubai Fountain Show

Wrap up your day with the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain Show. Located at the base of Burj Khalifa, it’s the world’s largest choreographed fountain system. The show features water jets that shoot up to 150 meters, dancing to music and lights.

The fountain shows run every 30 minutes in the evening. Arrive early to get a good spot, as it gets crowded. You can also book a table at one of the nearby restaurants for a dinner with a view.

For an even closer experience, consider a Lake Ride. These traditional abra boats take you right up to the fountains during the show. It’s a magical experience you’ll never forget.

Here’s the evening schedule for the Dubai Fountain Show:

Time	Show Duration
6:00 PM to 11:00 PM	Every 30 minutes

Conclude your night with a stroll around the Burj Park, a serene green space offering stunning views of Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain. It’s the perfect end to a day exploring Modern Dubai.

Day 3: Desert Safari And Culture

On the third day of your Dubai adventure, immerse yourself in the desert’s mystical beauty and rich culture. Desert Safari and Culture offers an exhilarating mix of adrenaline-pumping activities and insightful cultural experiences. From the early morning sands to the starry desert night, this day promises unforgettable memories.

Morning: Desert Safari Adventure

Start your day with a thrilling desert safari adventure. As the sun rises over the golden dunes, embark on a journey filled with excitement and wonder. Here’s what you can expect:

• Dune Bashing: Buckle up for a heart-pounding ride across the desert’s rolling dunes.
• Sandboarding: Glide down the dunes on a sandboard, similar to snowboarding but on sand.
• Camel Riding: Experience the traditional way of desert travel with a gentle camel ride.

For a more immersive experience, some tours offer quad biking and falconry demonstrations. Make sure to wear comfortable clothing, apply sunscreen, and stay hydrated. Here’s a quick checklist:

Item	Reason
Comfortable Clothing	For ease of movement
Sunscreen	Protects from UV rays
Water Bottle	Stay hydrated

Afternoon: Visit Sheikh Mohammed Centre For Cultural Understanding

After the morning’s excitement, head to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Located in the Al Fahidi Historic District, this center offers a deep dive into Emirati culture and traditions. Activities include:

• Guided Tours: Explore the historic buildings with knowledgeable guides.
• Traditional Lunch: Enjoy authentic Emirati cuisine while learning about local customs.
• Q&A Sessions: Ask anything you want to know about Emirati culture and religion.

The center’s motto, “Open Doors, Open Minds,” reflects its mission to promote cultural understanding. Wear modest clothing to respect local customs. Here’s a simple dress code guide:

Do	Don’t
Wear long sleeves	Shorts or sleeveless tops
Cover knees	Short skirts or dresses

Evening: Dinner And Entertainment At A Bedouin Camp

As the sun sets, make your way to a traditional Bedouin camp. The evening promises a blend of delicious food and captivating entertainment. Here’s what awaits you:

• BBQ Dinner: Feast on a variety of grilled meats, fresh salads, and traditional desserts.
• Belly Dancing: Enjoy a mesmerizing belly dance performance under the stars.
• Henna Painting: Get intricate henna designs on your hands or feet.
• Shisha: Relax with a traditional shisha pipe.

This unique experience allows you to glimpse into the nomadic lifestyle of the Bedouins. Remember to bring a light jacket as desert nights can get chilly. A quick packing list:

Item	Reason
Light Jacket	For cooler desert nights
Camera	Capture memories
Comfortable Footwear	Walking on sand

Practical Tips For 3 Days In Dubai

From getting around the city to respecting cultural norms, these tips will help you navigate Dubai like a pro.

Transportation And Getting Around

Getting around Dubai is straightforward with various transportation options. The Dubai Metro is a convenient and affordable way to travel. It covers major attractions and operates from early morning until midnight.

• Dubai Metro: Affordable, efficient, and covers major attractions.
• Taxis: Readily available, metered, and reasonably priced.
• Buses: Extensive network but slower than the metro.
• Car Rentals: Ideal for exploring beyond the city.

For short distances, consider using ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem. These services are reliable and offer cashless payment options. If you prefer driving, renting a car can be a great option. Dubai’s roads are well-maintained, and parking is usually available at major attractions.

Transportation Mode	Pros	Cons
Dubai Metro	Affordable, quick, covers major areas	Limited to certain routes
Taxis	Convenient, metered	Can be costly for long distances
Buses	Extensive network	Slower than metro
Car Rentals	Freedom to explore	Parking fees, navigation

Dress Code And Cultural Etiquette

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city, but it’s important to respect local customs. Dress modestly, especially in public places like malls and markets.

• Women: Wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
• Men: Avoid wearing sleeveless shirts in public.
• Swimwear: Acceptable at pools and beaches, but cover up when leaving these areas.

Be mindful of public behavior. Public displays of affection are not common and should be avoided. Always ask permission before taking photos of people. During Ramadan, eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited.

Showing respect for local customs will enhance your experience and help you blend in more comfortably.

Booking Tours And Activities

Booking tours and activities in advance can save you time and hassle. Many attractions offer online booking options. Consider purchasing combo tickets for popular sites.

• Burj Khalifa: Book tickets online to avoid long queues.
• Desert Safari: Choose from morning, evening, or overnight options.
• Dubai Fountain Show: Arrive early for the best views.

City passes can provide great value. They often include entry to multiple attractions at a discounted rate. Look for passes that cover your top picks.

Attraction	Recommendation
Burj Khalifa	Book online, visit at sunset
Desert Safari	Morning, evening, or overnight
Dubai Fountain	Arrive early for best view

Best Time To Visit Dubai

The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March. The weather is cooler, making outdoor activities more enjoyable. Temperatures range from 20°C to 30°C.

• Winter: Ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
• Summer: Extremely hot, with temperatures exceeding 40°C.
• Ramadan: Experience cultural events but be mindful of fasting rules.

Visiting during festivals can add a unique experience to your trip. The Dubai Shopping Festival in January offers great deals and entertainment. The Dubai Food Festival in February is perfect for food lovers.

Plan your visit around these periods to make the most of your time in Dubai.

Frequently Asked Questions