Dubai

How many days: 4

Four days covers the big sights, the old town and a desert trip with time left for the beach. Three is a minimum if you want to avoid rushing.

Distances are large, so plan each day around one area. Midday heat is intense in summer, so keep the afternoons for indoor or poolside time.

What to do in Dubai

See the Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world has an observation deck with views over the city and the desert. Book a timed slot on the official site.

Explore the old districts

Al Fahidi and the creek area keep a traditional atmosphere with wind towers, courtyards and small museums. Cross the creek by a small wooden abra boat.

Browse the souks

Traditional markets sell spices, gold and textiles. Bargaining is normal, and it is more relaxed in the evening.

Spend time at the beach

Public beaches and hotel beach clubs line the coast. Many have lifeguards and showers, and the water is warm for much of the year.

Take a desert trip

Organised trips head into the dunes for a sunset or overnight stay. Choose an operator with good safety records and read recent reviews.

Visit a major mall

The big malls have aquariums, ice rinks and fountain shows as well as shops. They are a refuge from midday heat.

Walk along the marina

A modern waterfront area with towers, boats and restaurants. Pleasant in the evening once the temperature drops.

Visit the Dubai Frame

A giant picture-frame structure with a glass-floored walkway and views of both old and new Dubai. A quick stop that explains the city's contrast.

Ride the creek abra

Wooden water taxis cross Dubai Creek between the old trading districts all day. It is among the cheapest and most local things to do.

Take a walk on Jumeirah beach

A long public beach with a view of the sail-shaped hotel and the city skyline. Go in the early morning or at sunset.

What to eat and drink

Emirati and Middle Eastern food

Look for grilled meats, hummus, falafel and slow-cooked rice dishes. Many places serve generous shared plates.

Shawarma

Thinly sliced meat in a wrap, sold everywhere for a cheap, quick meal. A staple of the city.

Arabic coffee and dates

Coffee flavoured with cardamom, served with dates as a sign of hospitality. Worth trying at a local cafe.

International dining

Dubai has restaurants from every cuisine, run by chefs from around the world. Book ahead for popular places.

Brunch culture

The weekend brunch is a local tradition at hotels and restaurants. Check what is included and whether alcohol is part of it.

Karak tea

Strong, sweet milky tea flavoured with cardamom and sold in small cafes. A cheap and popular local drink.

Getting around

The metro runs on a few lines and links many main sights. The tram and buses fill in gaps, and one reloadable card works on all of them.

Taxis are plentiful and use meters. Ride-hailing apps also work well.

Most visitors find a car or taxi useful given the distances. Walking is pleasant only in small areas and in cooler weather.

Good to know

• Summer is extremely hot, often with high humidity. The most comfortable time is the cooler months, roughly from late autumn to spring.
• Local laws and customs differ from those in many countries. Dress modestly in public places such as malls, and check what is allowed for alcohol, public behaviour and photography.
• Public displays of affection, drinking in public and drug possession can lead to serious penalties. Read the official travel advice for your country.
• Entry rules vary by nationality. Check the official government sites well before you travel.
• Ramadan changes daily life. Daytime eating and drinking in public is restricted, and opening patterns shift, so check the dates before you book.