Dubai 3 days itinerary | How to spend a fantastic three days in Dubai

We have crafted the perfect Dubai 3 days itinerary, which will gather as much information as possible for your first visit. Whether you’re a budget-savvy explorer, a couple looking for a romantic getaway, or someone who wants to experience everything in a limited time, our Dubai itinerary for three days is the perfect solution.

We have carefully crafted this itinerary to include morning, afternoon, and evening activities. You’ll get to experience some of the best attractions in Dubai, from the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, to the Dubai Mall, as well as some off-the-beaten-path activities that will make your trip unforgettable.

And, of course, no trip to Dubai is complete without a desert safari. We’ve got you covered with that, too.

Things to see in Dubai in 3 days

Our Dubai 3 days Itinerary Map

Burj Khalifa: Touching the Sky

Your journey starts with a visit to the iconic Burj Khalifa, which is the tallest building in the world. You can ascend to the observation deck to enjoy a panoramic view of the city’s skyline that is sure to amaze you.

However, since this is a popular landmark, it’s recommended to book your tickets in advance to avoid missing out on the opportunity. You can do so by visiting this website. The view from the top is simply incredible.

The Dubai Mall: Shopping and Beyond

Next, head to The Dubai Mall, which is located adjacent to the Burj Khalifa. The mall is a shopper’s paradise and has everything you could wish for.

From haute couture to quirky boutiques, there is an extensive range of shops to explore. Don’t miss the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, which is an aquatic wonderland located within the mall.

Dubai Fountain Show: A Spectacle of Lights

In the evening, you can witness the captivating Dubai Fountain Show, which is a symphony of water and lights choreographed to music. It’s a mesmerizing experience that perfectly encapsulates the grandeur of the city.

This is the best-ever fountain show, with the Burj Khalifa in the background and the powerful splashes creating an insane spectacle.

Dubai Sky View

If you want to enjoy the Dubai skyline, you can do so by visiting the Sky Deck. This can be done on the first day of your Dubai 3 days itinerary, as most attractions are located within the same district.

You can also take the metro to the Dubai Shopping Mall, the biggest mall in the world, and stay there until dark after completing all your activities.

One of the best experiences you can have is to visit the Dubai Sky View, which offers a great view of the Burj Khalifa, old and new Dubai. On a clear day, you may even catch a glimpse of the Dubai Frame and the Museum of the Future.

This activity is relatively cheap, with entry costing only 80 AED ($20 | €19 | £17). PURCHASE HERE. It’s worth checking ticket availability before you go.

Dubai Snow Park

Another must-visit place is the Dubai Snow Park, which is located within the Dubai Mall complex. Despite the city’s year-round heat, you can still have a winter wonderland experience with skiing, bobsledding, and other activities.

This park is not too expensive compared to other activities, with a full-day pass costing 240 AED ($65 | €60 | £50). However, it’s better to book in advance, as there are limited entries per day.

Dubai Mall Aquarium

If you’re interested in marine life, the Dubai Mall Aquarium is a must-visit. It’s built on three levels and features the world’s largest water tank. You can even walk through an underwater tunnel to see marine species up close and personal.

The ticket also includes a visit to the Marine Zoo, where you can learn about conservation and sustainability. Make sure to check ticket availability and different time slots online before you go, as there are limited entries per day.

Day 2 in Dubai: Embracing the Culture

On your second day in Dubai, you will have the opportunity to immerse yourself in some of the most intense cultural experiences.

While you may have initially been drawn to Dubai for its impressive skyline, unique restaurants, and shopping facilities, it is important to understand that Dubai’s foundation is built on a sense of respect for its local culture.

We recommend taking the time on day two to truly embrace and explore Dubai’s rich cultural offerings, including the allure of the desert.

Desert Safari: Dune Bashing and Beyond

One of the most remarkable experiences in Dubai is the desert safari. You can traverse the golden sand dunes, experience dune bashing, and immerse yourself in the Emirati culture at a desert camp. We went on this tour with Platinum Heritage, using a 1950s Land Rover.

They are a truly sustainable company that tries their best to keep the Bedouin culture alive. If you stay overnight in their Bedouin Camp, you can participate in a delicious Emirati Dinner, with a show and stargazing night following. Check out this Desert Tour in Dubai.

Dubai old quarter: Bastakiya District

Another great way to experience the history of Dubai is to stroll through the narrow lanes of the Bastakiya Quarter.

Here, the wind-towered buildings harken back to Dubai’s past, and the art galleries and cafes add a contemporary touch to the area’s old-world charm. BOOK YOUR TOUR.

Dubai Marina: Relaxation by the Waterfront

Dubai Marina is a man-made canal city that offers a perfect place to unwind. Take a leisurely walk along the promenade, savour waterfront dining, or take in the breathtaking views of luxury yachts and skyscrapers.

Jumeirah Beach: Sun, Sand, and Sea

At Jumeirah Beach, you can soak up the sun and enjoy the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf. Spend your afternoon relaxing and reflecting on your incredible Dubai journey.

Gold and Spice Souks: A Shopper’s Delight

For those who love shopping, the Gold and Spice Souks are a must-visit. Indulge in retail therapy and immerse yourself in the glimmer of gold jewellery and the aromatic allure of exotic spices. It’s a sensory delight that you wouldn’t want to miss.

The best area to stay in Dubai

25Hours Hotel Dubai is the best for a five-star experience at an affordable price

During our recent trip to Dubai, we had the pleasure of staying at the most amazing hotel. The 25hours hotel, located in the centre of downtown Dubai, was just three metro stops away from the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.

We were particularly drawn to the hotel’s affordability, as we found it to be a luxury hotel with rates that made Dubai possible despite its reputation for being expensive. Check our review here!

The hotel’s breakfast was outstanding, featuring a blend of international cuisine along with local traditional dishes.

However, the highlight of our stay was the hotel’s fantastic pool, which overlooked the Museum of the Future and the skyscrapers in the backdrop. We highly recommend the 25hours hotel for its excellent service, affordability, and prime location.

More time for our itinerary?

If our 3 days itinerary in Dubai isn’t enough and you still have some energy left, then check out the following attractions, which we couldn’t include in this guide. Dubai is very spread out and has a plethora of outstanding activities and world-class restaurants.

One can spend months in Dubai without getting bored. As we have mentioned earlier, Dubai is like a wonderful playground for adults. Below, you will find three other amazing attractions in Dubai that you shouldn’t miss.

A Visit to the Dubai Museum

Emiratis have a great history, and locals are proud of their journey. You can get a glimpse of it by delving into Dubai’s history at the Dubai Museum, which is located in the Al Fahidi Fort. You can gain insights into the city’s transformation from a fishing village to a global metropolis.

Sheikh Zayed Road: Iconic Architecture

Drive along Sheikh Zayed Road and witness the architectural marvels that line the skyline. The intricate designs of the buildings will leave you in awe of human ingenuity.

Abras Ride on Dubai Creek: Nostalgic Journey

Drive along Sheikh Zayed Road and witness the architectural marvels that line the skyline. The intricate designs of the buildings will leave you in awe of human ingenuity.

Things to know before visiting Dubai

Which currency is in Dubai

Dubai uses the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) as its currency. The exchange rates are approximately 1 USD = 3.67 AED, 1 GBP = 4.88 AED, and 1 EUR = 4.36 AED. Credit and debit cards are the preferred method of payment in Dubai, as they offer convenience and help to keep track of expenses while travelling.

It’s always recommended to carry a minimal amount of cash. If you need cash, ATMs are widely available in Dubai, and using local ATMs with your card is a convenient way to retrieve cash at competitive rates. Our experience shows that Mastercard offers the best rates for currency conversion.

Best time to visit Dubai

The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for outdoor activities such as desert excursions and water sports. April is also a good month, but temperatures increase within the day.

During the high season, prices are higher compared to the hotter months when fewer tourists visit. If you’re looking to save money, consider visiting Dubai in June, July, and August, when you can find deals on accommodations and experiences.

However, be aware that during these months, daytime temperatures can reach over 40 °C, making it impossible to spend time outside.

How to get from Dubai airport to the city centre

The Dubai Metro is the best way to get from Dubai Airport to the city centre. Public transport is a fast and affordable choice, connecting Terminals 1 and 3 to various key destinations.

Taxis are also a good option for those who want a direct and easy way to reach their hotel or final destination. Rideshare services and airport buses are also available. You can book your transport before travelling to Dubai and have your driver waiting for you at the arrival hall. Check the offers starting from $20.

How long should you spend in Dubai?

For a comprehensive visit, we recommend staying for 5 to 7 days to explore iconic attractions, shop, and enjoy various activities. If you have enough funds, consider spending 10 days in Dubai for a more in-depth exploration.

However, even a short trip of 3 days, like the one we took, can give you a glimpse of the city’s highlights and leave you craving to come back.

Save on attraction admission

We understand that spending three days in Dubai can be very expensive and may be considered a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for many people. However, there are ways to save some money, and why not spend it on other activities? One option to save money in Dubai is to get a Dubai Pass with Go City.

With this pass, you can access over 60 Dubai attractions, including a 1-day ticket for the hop-on and hop-off Dubai Big Bus tour. You can choose to have fun at the Aquaventure waterpark at Atlantis the Palm or cruise the Dubai Creek on a dhow boat while enjoying a delicious dinner and much more.

Best attractions in Dubai and offers to save money

You must have travel insurance to visit Dubai

FAQ Dubai itinerary 3 days