How to spend two days in Dubai

Written by Neha Singh

Looking to spend two days in Dubai? It’s a fantastic decision! Dubai is one of the most modern and culturally enriched destinations not only in the UAE but also in the whole of the Arabian Peninsula. So it goes without saying that there are endless choices to fill your Dubai itinerary. But if you’re not aware of where to go or what to include in your Dubai holiday, this mini travel program will guide you on how to spend your two days in Dubai. 

Two Days In Dubai Itinerary

There are top-notch sights, wondrous architectures, historical neighborhoods, and charming cultural landmarks all over Dubai. And to get a flavor of all, spend the first day taking in the must-sees and the next day enjoying your favorite leisure or adventure activities. 

Day One: See The Best Of Dubai

With limited time in Dubai, it’s most ideal to sign up for a full-day city tour. You can opt for a Big Bus Tour or a fully guided excursion that is seamlessly put together by an experienced service provider. 

Morning – Al Bastakiya Quarter

A city tour in Dubai starts with a visit to Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. Popularly known as Al Bastakiya Quarter, this is arguably the oldest neighborhood in Dubai. So get ready to stay back in time as you wind your way through the narrow alleys packed with ancient sand-colored structures. Most of them are now turned into museums, art galleries, and cultural institutions. If time permits, be sure to check out some of them, mainly Dubai Museum, Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, and Coin Museum. 

Mid-Morning – Souks 

A trip to Dubai’s old part is incomplete without visiting its traditional bazaars (across Deira and Bur Dubai), locally known as souks. Even if shopping is not on your travel agenda, make sure that you still check them out for their historical prominence, unmatched effervescence, and of course extraordinary offerings. The precious gold-covered Gold Souk is probably the most famed of all. Another must-do here is a traditional abra ride which costs you just AED 1 to ply from Bur Dubai to Deira and vice versa. 

Afternoon –Palm Jumeirah & Jumeirah 

Post lunch set out to discover Dubai’s modern side. Head to Palm Jumeirah which is one of the world’s most stylish man-made islands; it’s easily identifiable for its iconic palm tree design crowned by a crescent. There will be photo stops that let you capture some cool snaps against its top attractions such as Atlantis, The Palm, Boardwalk, etc. You can further visit its attractions like Atlantis Aquaventure. Moreover, a quick drive along Jumeirah region gives you a glance of Jumeirah Mosque, Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah Beach, and mostly the iconic ever Burj Al Arab that is renowned as the world’s only seven-star hotel. 

Evening – Downtown Dubai 

Once you have had your adequate fill of the region’s sun, island, and water, travel straight to Downtown Dubai. This uber astonishing neighborhood is home to some of Dubai’s most famous and striking sights. Topping the list of attractions here is undoubtedly Burj Khalifa which is also the world’s tallest building. Get your tickets pre-reserved if you wish to ascend to its observation deck on 124^th or 148^th level, enriched by one of the swiftest elevator rides. 

After this, make your way down to the Dubai Mall. The super colossal mall has over 1200 outlets and these are apart from its 200 plus dining options. But this destination is not just for shoppers or diners; it’s a haven for fun and leisure seekers too with its attractions such as Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink, VR Park, Ekaart Zabeel, and Hysteria Dubai Mall. 

Complement your Downtown Dubai exploration by admiring the Dubai Fountain Show that takes place at Burj Lake (outside of the Dubai Mall). This choreographed aquatic show in perfect sync of music and light is sure to captivate your senses. This is a free attraction but you can watch it from an exclusive standpoint on an abra ride or via stepping into a restaurant or a café overlooking the fountain. 

Day Two: Morning Desert Safari, Explore Theme Park, And Dhow Cruise

Morning: Desert Safari 

Today, get away from all on an early morning desert safari. This takes you to Dubai’s desert landscape that is isolated from the rest of the city.  Soak up the raw beauty and sheer tranquility of the golden sands in their entire splendor as you embark on an adrenaline-fueled 4X4 ride over the sands. Continue the thrill with a session of camel ride, quad biking, sandboarding, etc. Want to take your pre-dawn safari to next level? Opt for a sunrise desert safari or more ideally the hot air balloon ride which allows you to appreciate the untouched allure of the desert from a sky-high vantage point. 

Lasting for not more than an hour or two, a morning desert safari is perfect for anyone pressed for time. Apart from morning desert safari, there are longer versions of it, such as evening desert safari and overnight desert safari complete with BBQ dining, traditional entertainment, and camping facilities. 

Mid-Morning till Evening: Visit a Theme Park 

Theme parks in Dubai are so extraordinary that it is unimaginable to wind up a holiday without visiting at least one theme park in Dubai. Take your pick from IMG Worlds of Adventure, Hub Zero, or Dubai Parks and Resorts which alone has four parks under its roof (Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, LEGOLAND Dubai, and LEGOLAND Water Park.)Fancy trying snow activities in the desert city? There is Ski Dubai inside the Mall of the Emirates, which blows you away with its wintry setting that is nothing short of a snow wonderland. Dubai caters to water theme park lovers too, thanks to its wide array of options including Laguna Water Park, Atlantis Aquaventure, and Wild Wadi Water Parks to name a few. 

Evening: Dhow Cruise

After all heart-racing action and fun, give a perfect wrap-up to your mini Dubai getaway by going on a relaxed dhow cruise. Dependent on the views you wish to see, you can choose the cruise location at Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina. Dubai Creek is bustling yet historic while Dubai Marina is super contemporary surrounded by the most glitzy vistas of unique, intricate architecture. Whichever location you zero in on, you can be assured of a leisurely cruise aboard this traditional wooden vessel. Aside from stunning views, you will get to enjoy loads of food (mostly served buffet style) and amazing shows such as Tanura onboard. 

Top Tips For Dubai Holiday

• First of all, know when to visit Dubai. If you’re an outdoorsy person or more inclined to Dubai’s events and entertainment scene, visit hereduring winter months (November to March.)But for budget Dubai holiday, summer months make a great choice. 
• From accommodation, airline tickets and transfers to city tours, desert safari, dhow cruise and theme park tickets, pre-book every aspect of your Dubai travel to bag maximum savings. More than that, it helps you to avoid last-minute hassles. 
• Wear modest clothes and know local rules and customs. This not only avoids embarrassing situations but also helps you to save yourself from making hefty fine payment. 

Conclusion 

That’s our suggestion for two days in Dubai itinerary! Whether you’re an adventurist, culture buff or simply looking to kick back, Dubai caters to all with its exciting offerings. And we anticipate that this handy program will help you to have a blast while allowing you to maximize your limited time in Dubai. 

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