What to do with 48-Hours in Dubai?

Dubai is a city that never fails to impress anyone who plans to visit- the rich history, glamorous architecture, sky dominating buildings, lively nightlife are all proof to why it is called the ‘city of the future’. 

48 hours in Dubai

You should know that weeks are not enough to explore every attraction in Dubai but if you are here only for 48 hours, you have no choice but to stick to a few but must-visit attractions even if there is so many places to visit in Dubai... So, here is a list of things to do in Dubai you can add to your itinerary while enjoying all the luxuries of the city!

How best to explore Dubai?

​Dubai uae is a cosmopolitan hub filled with all kinds of interesting things to do. Therefore, it is accessible by all the major cities of the world. Whether you are travelling by plane to DXB or driving by car from another city, there are many easy ways to get around once you are in the city. So, before getting ready to explore the things that Dubai has to offer, it is better to know about its local transportation. 

Using the Dubai Metro or buses is one of the easiest ways to get around as there are trains/buses every couple of minutes. If you are planning to use the Metro, make sure to buy an NOL Card as soon as you land on Dubai. As you will be here only for 48 hours, you can purchase the Red NOL Card which will allow you to take one mode of transport for 10 single trips. 

But if you want to see all of the attractions, you can rent a bike at a curbside BYKY Station in the city centre of Dubai. However, the most expensive yet comfy option is to get a taxi to get around Dubai.

Another great way to get around Dubai is to get on Hop On Hop Off Buses, this way you will get to see all of the major attractions- Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Museum, Jumeirah Public Beach, Burj Al Arab, Marina Walk, Marina Mall, Marina Promenade and much more.

What are the best activities to do in Dubai?

That being said, there is much more to this futuristic city than what meets the eye. It is suitable to be visited by all kinds of travellers. So, here is a list of best activities to do in Dubai when you are there. This will make it easier for you to explore everything on your own at a leisurely pace.

Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa should be your first stop in Dubai because it is one of the city's most iconic attractions. It is the tallest building in the world and therefore, I suggest you head to the observation deck in the 124th floor to see panoramic views of Dubai’s skyline, especially in the evening hours nearing sunset.

Dubai Mall

Most of the time malls are not considered to be major attractions, but the ones in Dubai are truly exceptional. The most famous mall is the Dubai Mall because of its extensive space and as it offers many other activities for you to do apart from shopping. For example, you can go on ice skating, visit the Dubai Aquarium or see a movie. Make sure to check out the Dubai Fountain Show in the evening-it takes place every 30 minutes daily from 6.00 pm to 11.00 pm.

Dubai Miracle Garden

​Not only the world's largest buildings but Dubai also owns the largest flower garden with more than 100 million flowers from 45 different species. Dubai Miracle Garden is a great escapade from the bustles of the city as you can walk through the nature trails, admiring the scenery while listening to the songs of birds!

Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame is the newest addition to the list of attractions in Dubai. It stands up to a height of 150 meters and is the only one of its kind in the world! It is the perfect viewing point to the two aspects of Dubai- old and new due to its location. 

Dubai Creek Tower

Located in the Dubai Creek Waterfront, this is expected to be the world's tallest tower and the man-made structure when it is completed in 2022. The architecture is jaw-dropping, especially the oval-shaped top part which is supposed to have 10 observation decks.

Burj Al Arab

You can visit the third tallest tower in the world too when you are in Dubai. In addition to being a tower, it serves as a world-class hotel and therefore, is a great place to enjoy your afternoon having high tea.

Dubai Marina

Perfect for a night stroll, Dubai Marina is a favourite among locals and tourists alike- there are many eateries, high-end restaurants, markets and boutique shops for you to explore.

Ski Dubai

Ski Dubai is an indoor skiing area- the largest indoor ski park in the world spreading over an area of 22,500 square meters. Even if you don’t know the basics of skiing, you can learn it here at the skiing academy.

Skydiving in Dubai

​This is for the thrill-seekers, the Skydiving experience in Dubai is one of the best things to do even if you are here for only 48 hours. You can fly over the clouds of Dubai's sky, and be in awe of the incredible views of the city from above. Check out the 'SkyDive Dubai', in Jumeirah Beach to get an awesome skydiving experience.

What are the best restaurants and bars in Dubai?

​We made you a selection of best bars, rooftops and restaurants you should go during your stay in Dubai. 

Social By Heinz Beck

For Italian dishes.
If you are in the mood for some Italian dishes, head to Social By Heinz Beck. It is a 3-star restaurant by Michelin chef Heinz Beck, therefore, the must-try dishes would be seared tuna, lamb with eggplant puree, fagottelli carbonara and lobster medallion, with avocado and tomatoes.

Pierchic

​For a romantic luxury dining experience
Pierchic is one of the most romantic restaurants in Dubai and that too, offering you a luxury dining experience with an ocean view!
​You can have their seafood dishes and the must-try ones are Vitello tonnato, Chitarrine Alla Pescatore and assorted fried fish with vegetables.

Iris Dubai

​A trendy rooftop bar
Iris Dubai, located in Dubai's Meydan area is a trendy rooftop bar that offers you spectacular views of the city at night! It is luxurious but well worth it. The creative cocktails, wines and brunches can be enjoyed with the music of live bands in the background.

Level 43 Sky Lounge

​If you want to see 360-degree views of the Dubai city while enjoying a wide range of mixed cocktails, and all of its iconic attractions, you should head to the Level 43 Sky Lounge which is a modern lounge-like rooftop bar.

What are the best hotels in Dubai?

​We selected for you the best luxury hotels in Dubai that you can stay in while exploring the top attractions of the city.

Atlantis Palm Hotel

​If you want to have a full all-inclusive luxury experience in Dubai, Atlantis Palm Hotel which is a 7-star hotel in Dubai is a must-visit.

One and Only the Palm

​With uninterrupted views of Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach, One and Only the Palm is one of the best hotels in Dubai for the ones who are seeking both tranquility and beauty.
Read our hotel review

Four Seasons Dubai

​Four Seasons Dubai is another luxury hotel located in the Jumeirah beach itself, being a 5-star hotel it will provide you with everything you want from comfy beds, outdoor swimming pools to authentic cuisine.

What are the best private beaches in Dubai?

​We selected for you the best private beaches in Dubai for you to check out while you are staying in Dubai.

Nikki Beach Dubai

Opened in 2016, Nikki beach offers you a beach experience like no other in Dubai with its luxury cabanas, pool areas and high-end restaurants.​

Madinat Jumeirah

Another best private beach is Madinat Jumeirah- as this brown sandy beach goes on for 2 kilometres you can relax in its cabanas or beach tents with a view of iconic Burj Al Arab at a distance.

As you see 48 hours is not enough to see all of Dubai's extraordinary attractions. You have to spend at least a week to discover all the marvellous things this futuristic city has to offer. And although this was a short post, we were able to list the best things to do and included the best private beaches, rooftop bars and restaurants you would like to visit when you are here. Hope this helps to plan your trip and enjoy the little time you have at Dubai, doing things you haven't experienced before!

LUXURY HOTELS IN UAE

VISION Destinations | March 21

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