4 days in Dubai - what to see

What to see in Dubai in 4 days

Four days in Dubai is the perfect amount of time to get to know both the modern and traditional side of the city, relax on the beach or take an exciting trip to the desert. Here is a day-by-day tour of Dubai that will allow you to discover its greatest attractions and feel the unique atmosphere of this extraordinary place.

Day 1: Iconic Dubai attractions

Spend the first day visiting the city's landmarks, which are its showcase:

• Burj Khalifa - the tallest building in the world. Going up to the observation deck is an opportunity to admire the breathtaking panorama of Dubai from a height of over 800 meters.
• Dubai Mall – a gigantic shopping center where you can not only shop, but also visit a huge aquarium, an ice rink and an indoor waterfall. It is the perfect place to get a first impression of the magnitude of Dubai.
• Dubai Fountain Show – in the evening, you should not miss the spectacular fountain show in front of the Burj Khalifa. The light and music show is an unforgettable experience and a must-see.

Day 2: Modernity and luxury

On the second day, you can focus on the most exclusive and modern parts of the city, which show how far ahead of its time Dubai is:

• Palm Jumeirah – an artificial island in the shape of a palm tree, home to the famous Atlantis Hotel with a water park and an aquarium full of sea creatures. You can take a stroll along the promenade or admire the island from a bird's eye view during a helicopter flight in Dubai.
• Burj Al Arab – a luxury hotel in the shape of a sail, considered one of the most exclusive in the world. Even if you are not planning to stay overnight, it is worth booking a table in one of its restaurants to experience the luxurious atmosphere.
• Dubai Marina – a modern district full of skyscrapers and exclusive yachts. It is the perfect place for an evening stroll or a cruise through the marina, from where you can admire the beautifully illuminated buildings.

Day 3: The traditional side of Dubai

Dubai is not only modernity and glamour – on the third day, it is worth immersing yourself in its history and getting to know the old face of the city:

• Al Fahidi Historical District – a charming neighborhood with narrow streets, traditional architecture and museums where you can learn more about old Dubai.
• Dubai Creek – a natural bay around which the city developed. Take a traditional abra boat ride to feel the atmosphere of the old days.
• Souks – the Gold Souk and Spice Souk are places full of colors, scents and exotic products. You can buy gold, spices or local souvenirs here.

Day 4: Adventure in the desert and relaxation on the beach

The last day is time for unique experiences outside the city and relaxation:

• Safari in the desert - an exciting jeep trip through the golden dunes, combined with belly dancing shows, camel riding and dinner in a traditional Bedouin camp.
• Dubai beaches – at the end of the trip, it is worth relaxing on one of the beautiful beaches, such as Kite Beach or JBR Beach, where you can enjoy the warm sea and blue sky.

On the website Two Continents, in addition to trips, you can also find accommodation at the lowest prices.

How much does a 4-day stay in Dubai cost?

The cost of a four-day stay in Dubai depends on the traveler's preferences and the standard of service chosen. Below are the approximate expenses associated with such a trip, taking into account various cost categories:

• Flight: the price of air tickets to Dubai can vary significantly depending on the season, airline and time of booking. On average, you should expect to pay between 374 and 750 USD for a return ticket. During the high season, for example in winter, prices can be higher, while in the summer months you can find attractive promotions.
   
• Accommodation: the choice of accommodation in Dubai depends on the expected standard. Hotels with a medium level of comfort cost from 75 to 150 USD per night. However, if you are dreaming of a luxurious stay in a renowned hotel such as Atlantis The Palm, you will have to spend more than 375 USD per night. An alternative to hotels are short-term rental apartments, which can be more affordable, especially for families or groups of friends.
   
• Transport: Dubai has a well-developed public transportation system, and traveling by metro or bus is convenient and relatively inexpensive. A Nol Card, which allows unlimited travel during the day, costs around 7 USD. Taxis, on the other hand, are slightly more expensive and cost on average between 30 and 50 AED per trip, depending on the distance and traffic.
   
• Tourist attractions: Dubai offers a wide range of attractions, from modern skyscrapers to traditional bazaars and desert landscapes. Visiting iconic places such as the Burj Khalifa, going on a desert safari, taking a cruise on the Dubai Marina and visiting the Aquaventure water park usually costs between 250 and 374 USD. However, it is worth booking tickets in advance to avoid long queues and get better prices.
   
• Food: the cost of meals in Dubai varies greatly. You can have a tasty lunch in the food courts of shopping centers for around 12-17 USD, while dinner in a hotel restaurant or with a view of the Dubai Marina skyscrapers will cost you 50 to 75 USD per person. Lovers of oriental flavors can try traditional Arabic dishes in local restaurants, which is an additional culinary attraction.
   
• Additional expenses: when planning a trip, it is also worth considering the costs associated with buying souvenirs, tips for the staff or additional attractions, for example, a visit to a luxury beach club or a hot air balloon flight over the desert.

Summary of costs: assuming an average travel standard, the total cost of a four-day stay in Dubai is around 1,000-1,500 USD per person. The final amount depends on the chosen travel style, preferences regarding attractions and the level of comfort during the trip. It is worth remembering that planning and booking in advance can significantly reduce some of these costs.

Photo: Old Dubai, Pexels

How to get around Dubai during a multi-day trip?

Public transportation in Dubai is modern, convenient and well-organized, which makes it easy to explore the city and reach the most important tourist attractions. Here is an overview of the available means of transportation:

• Dubai Metro: a fast and comfortable means of transportation that connects key points in the city. The system consists of two main lines - red and green. The metro also has special carriages exclusively for women and children, ensuring greater travel comfort.
   
• Buses and trams: These are a great addition to the metro network, especially when visiting more remote areas of the city. Thanks to the extensive network of connections, you can easily reach less touristy areas.
   
• Taxis and Uber: These are convenient, albeit slightly more expensive, transportation options. Taxis are easily accessible throughout the city, and Uber offers the option of ordering luxury vehicles, which is ideal for those who value a higher standard of travel.
   
• Bike and e-scooter: these environmentally friendly means of transportation are mainly available near promenades and parks, such as those in Dubai Marina. Using them is a great way to actively explore the city in a pleasant atmosphere.

The most interesting districts of Dubai to explore

• Downtown Dubai: This is the bustling city center, where you will find the impressive Burj Khalifa and the huge Dubai Mall. The district attracts tourists both during the day and after dark, offering numerous attractions, restaurants and fountain shows.
   
• Dubai Marina: A modern part of the city characterized by impressive skyscrapers and a picturesque promenade. It is the perfect place for evening walks along the water and cruises on luxury yachts that allow you to admire the city skyline from a different perspective.
   
• Jumeirah: A coastal neighborhood known for its beautiful beaches, exclusive hotels, and family attractions such as the Wild Wadi water park. It is a place where you can enjoy relaxing by the sea and discover the luxurious lifestyle of Dubai at the same time.
   
• Deira and Al Fahidi: The historic heart of the city where you can experience the atmosphere of old Dubai. It is home to traditional markets such as the Spice Souk and Gold Souk, as well as historic buildings and museums showcasing the region's culture and history.
   
• Business Bay: A modern business district with numerous skyscrapers, luxury apartments and a picturesque canal. It is a dynamically developing area that attracts both entrepreneurs and tourists looking for modern attractions.

Questions and answers

1. What attractions can you see in Dubai in four days?

During your four days in Dubai, you should visit the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall, where you can admire the spectacular fountains. The next day, you can explore the beaches of Jumeirah and in the evening, take a stroll along Dubai Marina. You should also not miss out on a desert safari, the historic markets in Deira and relaxing at the Aquaventure water park on Palm Jumeirah.

2. Is it worth visiting the desert during a 4-day stay in Dubai?

A visit to the desert is a great idea for a short stay in Dubai. A desert safari offers extraordinary experiences such as an exciting dune drive, a traditional-style dinner under the starry sky and dance shows that allow you to get to know Arab culture better.

3. What are the best day trips from Dubai?

From Dubai, it is worth taking a day trip to Abu Dhabi to see the impressive Sheikh Zayed Mosque and the modern Louvre Abu Dhabi museum. Another interesting option is a trip to Al Ain, an oasis city with beautiful gardens and a historic fortress. Nature lovers can also visit the Ras Al Khaimah nature reserve or take a trip to Hatta to admire the picturesque landscapes and turquoise pools.

4. Where to eat in Dubai during a 4-day trip?

During your four-day stay in Dubai, you should visit Time Out Market Dubai, where renowned chefs from all over the world serve their dishes. For an unforgettable dinner, you can visit the At.mosphere restaurant in the Burj Khalifa, which offers a spectacular view of the city. Tasty and affordable meals are available at the Dubai Mall food courts or at atmospheric Arab markets such as Al Seef.