Dubai in just 24 hours: The perfect itinerary
It’s always a challenge to figure out how to see everything that a city has to offer in one day. And when you or a friend has only 24 hours to spend in a city like Dubai, well, that’s a challenge of the highest order. This constantly evolving emirate is home to the world’s largest mall, the world’s tallest building, the world’s largest dancing fountains, the world’s biggest water park….the list goes on and on. So if you’ve only got 24 hours, what should be on your ”must-visit” list? Fear not, we’re here to help you out! MyBayut proudly presents the ultimate guide on how to enjoy the best of Dubai in 24 hours.
Things to do in Dubai in 24 hours
When time is of the essence, and you’re wondering what to do in Dubai in 1 day, these fab ideas are a great place to start.
Take An Early Morning Hot Air Balloon Ride
Can you think of a better way to be introduced to the emirate than looking over sprawling desert dunes and the distinct Dubai skyline in the distance? The early morning silence of the desert and the warm sunshine give you a unique opportunity to soak it all in: you are in Dubai. The hot air balloon ride starts early morning and some operators also engage in some light falconry. Once you’re back on land, enjoy a delicious breakfast at a Bedouin camp while looking at the amazing pictures from your time in the sky.
Luckily, there are plenty of services that offer hot air balloon rides in Dubai. Providers like Balloon Adventures Dubai also offer pickup, drop off and even breakfast as part of their packages. Check out the best deals for the ride of a lifetime!
Explore Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood
Start your sprint in Dubai with a visit to the city’s past. Al Fahidi Historical District, also known as the Bastakiya, is in the Bur Dubai area and offers a glimpse into the pre-oil era in the UAE. One of the oldest neighbourhoods in the country, this area dates back to the 1900s.
A walking tour of Al Fahidi Historical District’s winding alleyways and bustling courtyards will give you a unique perspective on Dubai’s heritage in one day. You will also come across museums and art galleries here. Make the most out of your 24 hours in Dubai and check out other heritage sites in the city that take you back to when Dubai wasn’t the city of skyscrapers that we know today.
Must-try: Quick bite at the Arabian Tea House and a visit to Dubai Museum.
All Aboard The Abra
In many ways, old Dubai still stands tall (figuratively speaking) in this fast-changing city. One of the oldest modes of transport, the Abra, is the best way to see old neighbourhoods in Dubai from the sea. Hop on to one of these motorised wooden boats from the Bur Dubai Abra Station. Take a 5-minute ride crossing Dubai Creek while taking in unique views of the old parts of town, get off the boat in Deira and soak in the old Dubai vibes. This experience is a definite must-try on our ‘things to see in Dubai in 1 day’ list.
There are different types of abra rides in Dubai. Examples include the Dubai Creek abra services, among which you can find both the motorised and petrol-fueled versions.
No tickets are issued on the Bur Dubai-Deira route. You pay the driver on the boat for a starting fee of AED 1 per trip. This is the cheapest way to commute between Bur Dubai and Deira.
Lunch With A View Of Dubai Water Canal
One of the newer attractions in town is the spectacular Dubai Water Canal. Located in Business Bay, this great spot is easily accessible via a short cab ride or the metro. Take a leisurely walk around this architectural wonder along the promenade and soak in the surrounding areas.
Sunset ‘At The Top’ Of The World
A journey from old Dubai to the new. Head to the top of the world’s tallest tower Burj Khalifa to see spectacular views of everything that personifies Dubai today. Standing 828 metres tall, the iconic tower’s At The Top Burj Khalifa observation deck on the 124th floor has floor-to-ceiling glass windows offering views of significant landmarks such as Burj Al Arab, The World Islands, and several skyscrapers on Sheikh Zayed Road. The entire experience will leave you mesmerised.
It is cheaper to book tickets in advance and buy them online from At The Top’s official website. Tickets are priced at AED 159 for adults and AED 124 for children under 12 years.
Evening At The Dubai Mall
While we’ve got you in Downtown Dubai, how about shopping in one of the largest malls in the world? The Dubai Mall is one of the most popular places to see in Dubai. This shopper’s paradise boasts numerous international brands, great dining options, and fantastic tourist attractions. It takes well over a day to explore this huge mall and all it offers. The mall is the size of 50 football pitches and houses over 1,200 stores!
The stores in Dubai Mall have something for everyone, from the latest in apparel brands to gadgets and entertainment. And if you get a little peckish, drop by the restaurants in Dubai Mall for a bite after your shopping spree. All in all, it’s among the best places to see in Dubai in one day.
Once you’ve had your shopping fix, a visit to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo is a must. It is one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world.
Dinner With A View
If you are still wondering what to visit in Dubai in one day, consider the visitor-favourite Dubai Fountain. Enjoy a delicious meal at one of the restaurants overlooking the spectacular spectacle. This fascinating dancing fountain is among the world’s largest choreographed fountain systems and sits in Burj Khalifa Lake. Synchronised with the rhythm of popular tracks from all over the world, the fountain shoots water up to 500 ft. It is truly a treat for the senses. There are several restaurants on the lake promenade that offer great views of the Dubai Fountain.
Shows take place every 30 minutes from 05:45 PM to 11:30 PM. You can also enjoy a Dubai Fountain Lake Ride to see the dancing fountains up close. Tickets cost AED 65 and are available at the waterfront promenade outside Dubai Mall.
Late Night Stroll On The Boardwalk at The Palm Jumeirah
What better way to call it a day than a late-night walk with views of the Dubai skyline and the Arabian Gulf? The Boardwalk at The Palm Jumeirah stretches 11 kilometres on the man-made island’s crescent that circles the ‘palm tree fronds’ of the islands. A quiet walk on this waterfront stretch gives you a glimpse of this beautiful city from afar, with some time to appreciate both old and new Dubai.
The Boardwalk at the Palm Jumeirah is also lined with numerous food trucks but arrive early if you plan to grab a bite by the water.
Explore the Souks
The colourful souks in Dubai have been there before the emirate became the mega-metropolis it is today. So, if you wish to see the best of Dubai in 24 hours, these should be added to your list.
Among the most popular are the famous Deira Gold souk, spice, perfume and textile souk.
Don’t forget to haggle to get the best bargains!
Frequently Asked Questions
What else is there to do in Dubai?
Planning on staying longer in the emirate? You can add a plethora of other things to do in Dubai to your list. Among the most popular are desert safaris and theme park visits, to name a few.
How do I tour the emirate on a budget?
You will be surprised to know that there is plenty of fun things to do in the city regardless of how much money you have. Here’s a list of all the family places to visit in Dubai for free.
What are the best family-friendly activities in the emirate?
When it comes to things to do with the family in Dubai, visitors are spoilt for choice. Your options include everything from trips to waterparks, a zoo and museums.
Want to make a visit memorable for the kids without spending a lot? Consider the many free kid-friendly activities in Dubai. You can take them to the Coins Museum and Dubai Fountain.
That sums up all the must-see places when you only have a day in Dubai. This certainly will be a fun-filled, action-filled and super tiring day; but you will be glad to add all the fabulous landmarks to your trip while touring Dubai in 24 hours. Of course, the city has so much more to offer. Other must-dos you could squeeze into your itinerary include visiting the amazing Dubai Frame, Atlantis The Palm, and La Mer for some beach time fun.
Need a place to stay? Plan in advance and book a night’s stay at one of these hotel apartments in Dubai.
