First time in Dubai: what to see in 3 days
· 5 min read
Burj Khalifa, old Dubai and the desert — a ready-made plan for your first visit.
Day 1: Downtown
Go up the Burj Khalifa just before sunset (book tickets ahead), then wander Dubai Mall and watch the fountain show, which runs every half hour in the evening.
Day 2: Old Dubai
Start in the Al Fahidi quarter, cross the Creek on a one-dirham abra boat and explore the Gold and Spice Souks in Deira. In the evening, see the Museum of the Future or the Dubai Frame.
Day 3: Beach and desert
Spend the morning at JBR or Kite Beach, then head out on an afternoon desert safari — dunes, camels and dinner under the stars. Most tours include hotel pick-up.
Getting around
The metro is clean, cheap and links the airport, Downtown and the Marina — buy a Nol card and top it up. Taxis and the Careem and Uber apps are easy in the evening.