How to explore Dubai?

Planning your trip to Dubai

Before you set off on your journey, it is worth preparing well. Dubai, as a huge city, requires proper planning to make the most of your time spent sightseeing. Here are some practical tips:

• Choose the right time
  The best time to visit Dubai is between November and March, when temperatures are milder. Summers are very hot, with temperatures reaching 40-50°C, which can make sightseeing difficult.
• Cheap flights
  Dubai is well connected to the rest of the world. Airlines such as Emirates, FlyDubai and Wizz Air offer flights from many European cities, including the US. It is worth booking tickets in advance to save money.
• Visa and formalities
  Polish citizens can enter the United Arab Emirates without a visa for up to 90 days. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.
• Accommodation
  Dubai offers a wide range of accommodation options, from the world's most luxurious hotels, such as the Burj Al Arab, to more budget-friendly options in downtown Dubai or in the southern part of the city. Popular neighborhoods include Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and Bur Dubai. Discover the most interesting accommodation options in Dubai.
• Budget
  Dubai can be expensive, but with proper planning, you will find options for every budget. Prices for food, transportation, and attractions may vary, so it is a good idea to set a budget and look for promotions, such as tickets to Dubai attractions.

Not sure what to pack for Dubai? Click and read the Dubai vacation checklist - everything you need to know in one place.

Step-by-step Dubai sightseeing plan

Day 1: Downtown Dubai and Dubai's biggest attractions

Start your tour in the heart of the city - Downtown Dubai. Here you will find the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, with an observation deck on the 124th and 148th floors. The view of the city, especially at sunset, is breathtaking. After visiting Burj Khalifa, head to Dubai Mall, a huge shopping center where you will find not only shops but also an aquarium and an ice rink. In the evening, be sure to see the fountain show at Dubai Mall - it's a free attraction that will delight you with its choreography of water, light, and music.

Day 2: Old Dubai and the historic Al Fahidi district

Spend the second day exploring the old part of Dubai. Start at Dubai Creek, the bay that divides the city into two parts: Deira and Bur Dubai. Take a traditional abra boat and visit the spice market and gold market in Deira. Then head to the historic Al Fahidi district, where you can explore traditional houses with wind towers and learn more about the city's history at the Dubai Museum.

Day 3: Dubai Marina and the palm-shaped artificial island

On the third day, discover Dubai Marine, a modern district with skyscrapers and luxury yachts. A walk along the marina at sunset is a great way to soak up the atmosphere of the city. Then visit Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree, home to the Atlantis hotel. You can also head to Jumeirah Beach, which offers views of the Burj Al Arab, one of the most luxurious hotels in the world.

Day 4: Desert safari and Miracle Garden

You can't leave Dubai without experiencing a desert safari. Organized tours offer jeep rides on the dunes, camel rides, and dinner under the stars. In the afternoon, visit Miracle Garden, the largest flower garden in the world, which will delight you with its colors and arrangements.

Day 5: Abu Dhabi or Dubai Creek Harbour

If you have an extra day, consider a trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, home to the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. Alternatively, visit Dubai Creek Harbour, a new district with beautiful views and the futuristic Museum of the Future, one of the most must-see attractions in Dubai.

Plan your perfect vacation - check out the article 5-day Dubai itinerary

Top attractions to see

Here is a list of the biggest attractions in Dubai that you must see:

• Burj Khalifa - the tallest building in the world with an observation deck from which you can admire the city skyline.
• Dubai Mall - a huge shopping center with over 1,200 stores, an aquarium, and a fountain show.
• Burj Al Arab - an iconic sail-shaped hotel, a symbol of luxury in Dubai.
• Museum of the Future - a futuristic building that showcases innovations and visions of the future.
• Dubai Frame - a frame-shaped structure offering views of old and new Dubai.
• Palm Jumeirah - an artificial palm-shaped island with luxury hotels and beaches.
• Miracle Garden - a flower garden with millions of plants in amazing arrangements.
• Dubai Marina - a modern district with skyscrapers and a marina full of yachts.

The best viewpoints in Dubai

Dubai is famous for its breathtaking panoramas. Here are the best viewpoints in Dubai that are worth visiting:

• Burj Khalifa observation deck - the views from the 124th and 148th floors are unique, especially at sunset.
• Dubai Frame - a unique perspective on old and new Dubai.
• Sky Views Observatory - an observation deck at the Address Sky View hotel, offering views of downtown Dubai.
• The View at The Palm - a viewpoint on Palm Jumeirah, where you can admire the island and the Persian Gulf.

Exploring Dubai on your own or with a guide?

Exploring Dubai on your own

Exploring Dubai on your own gives you a lot of freedom. Thanks to the well-developed public transport system, including the red metro line, you can easily get around the city. Transportation in Dubai is convenient for tourists - the metro, trams, buses, and taxis are easily accessible and affordable. Apps such as Careem and Uber make it easy to get around the city. When visiting Dubai's attractions on your own, you can tailor your itinerary to your interests, for example, spend more time at the Dubai Mall or the spice market.

Guided tours

Organized tours are a great option for those who want to learn more about the history of the city and the culture of the Emirates. A great guide will show you hidden gems such as traditional houses in Al Fahidi or stories related to pearl diving in Dubai Creek.
A travel agency such as Two Continents offers ready-made tours of Dubai, including desert safaris and trips to Abu Dhabi. This is also a convenient option if you have limited time and want to see the main attractions in a short period.

Don't feel like worrying about planning? Choose a convenient organized tour.

Transportation in Dubai for tourists

Dubai offers a variety of public transportation options that make it easy to explore the city:

• Metro - The red and green metro lines connect major attractions such as the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Marina. Metro stations are modern and air-conditioned.
• Taxis - easily accessible and relatively cheap, especially compared to European cities.
• Buses and trams - great for those who want to explore the southern part of the city or Palm Jumeirah.
• Abra boats - a traditional way to cross Dubai Creek, ideal for exploring old Dubai.

The NOL card is a universal public transport ticket that works on the metro, buses, and trams. It is worth purchasing to save time and money.

Questions and answers

1. How to plan a trip to Dubai?

When planning a trip to Dubai, it is worth starting by setting the dates of your trip - the best time to visit is between November and March. Next, book a flight at an attractive price and accommodation in a convenient location, such as Downtown Dubai or Dubai Marina. Prepare a sightseeing schedule, including the most important attractions, such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the historic districts of the city. Getting around is easy thanks to efficient public transport, especially the metro. To get to know the region even better, it is worth going on a desert safari or planning a day trip to Abu Dhabi.

2. What is worth seeing on your first visit to Dubai?

During your first visit to Dubai, be sure to see the Burj Khalifa with its observation deck, the Dubai Mall with its fountain show, and the charming old part of the city with Dubai Creek and the historic Al Fahidi district. Don't miss the Dubai Marina, Burj Al Arab, and a desert safari, which will allow you to experience the diversity and luxury of this city.

3. How many days do you need to visit Dubai?

To visit the main attractions of Dubai, such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, the old part of the city, and Dubai Marina, 4-5 days are enough. An extra day will allow you to go on a desert safari or a trip to Abu Dhabi.

4. Is it safe to visit Dubai?

Dubai is very safe to visit, as the city has a low crime rate and well-developed infrastructure for tourists. However, it is advisable to follow local customs and rules, such as appropriate dress in public places, to avoid misunderstandings.