Dubai in 3 days
Dubai means the view from the Burj Khalifa, a 4x4 safari in the dunes, and gold souks a short ride from air-conditioned malls. A futuristic showcase of luxury, set between the desert and the Persian Gulf.
The plan, day by day
Day 1
- Morning
Burj Khalifaabout 1 hThe world's tallest building, 828 metres high, with observation decks on the 124th, 125th and 148th floors.
- Afternoon
Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountainfree · half a dayA vast shopping centre at the foot of the Burj Khalifa; in the evening the fountain on the lake outside dances to music.
Day 2
- Morning
A desert safarihalf a dayA 4x4 drive over the dunes outside the city, usually timed for sunset and followed by dinner at a desert camp.
- Late afternoon
Palm Jumeirahfree · about 2 hA man-made island shaped like a palm tree, lined with villas, hotels and beaches, with a long promenade and a monorail running its length.
Day 3
- Morning
The gold and spice souksfree · about 1 h 30The old markets of Deira, reached by crossing Dubai Creek in a wooden abra boat, with jewellers' windows and sacks of spices.
Where to sleep in Dubai
- Rove Downtown · €70 a night
- Premier Inn Dubai Al Jaddaf · €60 a night
- Rove Dubai Marina · €75 a night
- Novotel Dubai Al Barsha · €100 a night
- Hyatt Place Dubai Al Rigga · €95 a night
- Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa · €100 a night
- Burj Al Arab Jumeirah · €1200 a night
- Jumeirah Beach Hotel · €350 a night
- Palace Downtown · €450 a night
Plan this trip
Hotel prices per room per night, checked when written. Some links are affiliate links: we may earn a commission, at no extra cost to you.