How to do Dubai in Two Days

The United Arab Emirates, more specifically Dubai, is becoming more and more common as a transit point between international flights, and travelers are taking advantage of this, often extending their stay. Dubai is jam-packed with adventure, enough to keep most entertained for a few days. Here’s how to make the most out of a short trip to Dubai.

Day 1: Target places – Old Dubai, Dubai Mall, Museum of the Future & Burj Khalifa

48 hours isn’t a lot of time, so you’ll have to get the day started early. First stop is Old Dubai. Personally, seeing the older/more authentic side of a city is a must for me every time I travel – it’s important for me to see the contrast. Old Dubai gives you a glimpse of life before the economic boom, but it’s also modernized too. 

The next stop is the Dubai Mall, the 26^th largest in the world as of today. The Dubai Mall has everything, and I mean everything. An aquarium, ski resort, world class shopping, restaurants, etc.

Museum of the Future: Unfortunately, I found out about this place a few days before my trip and all the tickets were sold out. But…..don’t let that stop you from visiting and taking some pictures from the outside! It’s arguably Dubai’s coolest looking structure.  

Burj Khalifa: the world’s tallest building and the heart and soul of Dubai. You can’t come this far and not see it – just remember to buy your tickets ahead of time! I recommend going shortly before sunset.

Day 2: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque & Desert Safari

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is regarded as one of the world’s most beautiful mosques. This mosque features 82 domes, more than 1,000 columns, 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet. The mosque is open for visitors every day from 9AM to 10PM; except Fridays from 12-3. You can reserve your ticket online or get it in person. The greatest perk about this place is that its 100% free. 

Dubai’s Desert Safari is a good break from the city and probably the most exciting activity for most tourists. With the standard tourist package, you can ride an ATV +camel, sandboard, and enjoy a BBQ dinner with a fire show. I recommend you spend the extra money and ride the ATVs a bit longer; there is no better feeling than going full speed on those things in the middle of the desert! You can book these desert safari tours online, at your hotel, pretty much anywhere. Most of them will be the same, with slight variations in the itinerary.

If you stick with this itinerary, you’ll get a good feel for the city. Ideally, you’d want an extra day or so, but if your goal is to just see the highlights, then two days is enough. Enjoy 🙂