Dubai is an all-time favorite holiday spot, sought after for its eclectic mix of astonishing architectural landmarks, striking viewpoints, live performances and shopping. But, with just two days to discover them all, it can be quite an overwhelming task to create an immaculate Dubai program. As every single minute counts, this proposed Dubai itinerary for two days is definite to give you some inspiration to get a slice of everything that this city is famed for. This also includes some important information on local etiquettes, best time to visit and other aspects such as where to stay and how to get around in Dubai.
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Getting Around Dubai
Dubai Metro, operated by Dubai Government’s RTA (Road and Transport Authority), is probably the most affordable yet efficient way to get around in the city. After all, it is completely automated (hence driverless) and also the longest of its kind in the world. You can equally count on RTA’s other transport means: public buses, ferries, cabs etc, with all being spotless, spacious and well-organized. If you plan to use public transport extensively, purchase a NOL card which allows you to access and make payment of all of the above transport; just top up the card as you go.
But, with just 48 hours in Dubai, it is most recommended to opt for private transfers arranged by a reputable tours company. A private transfer in Dubai mostly comes with the services of a professional driver. That said, you can also hire the vehicle alone (without driver). But, be sure to carry your international driving license, if you plan to drive in Dubai.
Where To Stay in Dubai?
An accommodation is usually chosen on the basis of a variety of parameters. So whether you want to pick an accommodation for its extraordinary comforts, luxury, ambience, location, or views, Dubai has the most amazing option in every category.
Atlantis, The Palm, Burj Al Arab, Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah, and Waldorf Astoria Dubai Palm Jumeirah are some of the sure-fire choices for those looking for a high-end accommodation. But if is convenience you are after, it is most ideal to pick a hotel located in a central location, such as Al Barsha, Sheikh Zayed Road, and Downtown Dubai.
For budget accommodation, there are some cool choices in Bur Dubai and Deira areas. Now if you are planning to discover the city on your own, make sure that your accommodation is located close to a metro station or bus stop.
Best Hotels in Dubai
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah – With amazing amenities like 9 restaurants, a pool with a swim up bar, fitness classes on site, and more, this is a great hotel.
Atlantis the Palm – This iconic hotel is what you see in pictures of Dubai. 20 restaurants, 2 pools and a lazy river, and a kids club make this is an amazing spot.
Armani Hotel Dubai – Located in downtown Dubai, this hotel has a great location. It features 5 restaurants, an outdoor pool and a full service spa.
Shangri-La Dubai – This 5 star Asian theme hotel has a lot to offer including an extensive fitness center and spa, pool and 5 restaurants and bars.
The St. Regis Dubai – A prestigious name with a hotel to match, you’ll love this choice. Everything you need including restaurants, grocery delivery, swimming pool, golf course, and more.
Jumeriah Beach Hotel – If you want a great beachfront spot, this hotel fits the bill. A luxury hotel with access to a water park, 10 restaurants, and 5 pools.
Hotel Indigo Dubai, Downtown – You’ll love the chic, modern decor of this hotel located in a prime location. Breakfast is included and the hotel also offers a pool, fitness center and restaurant.
Rove La Mer Beach – Located beachside on La Mer, this modern spot is a great find. With a game room, pool, fitness center, and restaurant with breakfast included, you’ll find all that you need!
W Dubai – The Palm – A stunning property you have to see to believe! Beautiful decor, an award winning Japanese restaurant, two stunning pools, and private beach front will make you never want to leave.
Best Time To Visit Dubai
With its diverse and year-round offerings, there is no denying the fact that Dubai can be visited during any part of the year. But if you are asking for the peak season, it is undoubtedly winter months from November to March. It is also ideal for outdoorsy people as well as anyone who likes to be part of exciting events, festivals and seasonal attractions such as Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), Global Village, Dubai Miracle Garden, New Year’s Eve festivities, and Christmas Celebration to name a few.
For those looking for extremely cheaper holiday, it is recommended to skip winter months and instead visit here in summer months. Don’t expect to spend time outdoors in these months; it will be intolerably hot. However, on a positive note, this is the time when you get to stay in a top-notch hotel at unbelievable rates and make the most of the attractions like super cool Ski Dubai, Dubai Ice Rink etc. You can also look forward to enjoy incredible price-drops while putting together all other elements of your vacation, including sightseeing, airline tickets, and transfers.
Local Customs And Rules That You Should Know
Knowing the following local etiquettes is vital as it not only allows you to avoid many embarrassing situations, but also saves you from paying heavy fines.
- Dubai is a conservative place. So take care to wear comfortable, non-revealing dresses.
- Say no to any kind of PDAs.
- Take permission, if necessary, before you click pictures. This is especially significant when it comes to government structures and local Emiratis.
- Avoid smoking and drinking (alcohol) in public.
- Don’t eat or drink in public during Ramadan (which is the month of fasting in the Islamic calendar.)
Dubai Travel Essentials
To ensure a hassle-free visit to Dubai, you will need certain documents. Foremost of them is Dubai Visa. This is applicable for only those nationals who are not qualified for any kind of visa exemptions by way of visa-on-arrival or visa free entry. Get your Dubai visa through an experienced visa service provider who will help you to pick the right visa package for your brief Dubai trip. Ok to Board (OTB) is another staple for your Dubai visit, mainly mandatory for visitors traveling from South Asian destinations like India, Pakistan and Bangladesh. This is a minor procedure conducted by your airline service company to ensure the legitimacy of your travel documents. In the absence of OTB, your airline has the complete authority to prevent you from boarding the flight.
Two Days Dubai Itinerary
We have crafted this Dubai itinerary with the assumption that you have full 48 hours or more in Dubai.
Day 1: Dubai City Tour, Burj Khalifa And Dubai Mall
Morning till Afternoon: Given that you have a very limited amount of time in Dubai, go ahead and cover as much attractions as you can on a well-crafted Dubai city tour. With an experienced guide in tow, you will visit almost all iconic Dubai landmarks and popular neighborhoods in a few hours. It takes you through the exquisite ever Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah etc, and also comes with ample photo ops at spots like Atlantis, The Palm Resort and Burj Al Arab. This further includes a trip to Dubai’s hidden gems like Al Bastakiya Quarter, known for its old-world appeal. If you are looking for more alternatives, you can select from Big Bus Tour or Heritage Express Dubai Tour.
Afternoon till Night: After your city tour, get ready to spend your rest of the day at Downtown Dubai. This 500-acre glamorous neighborhood stands as an epitome of how long Dubai has traveled to establish itself a fabulous global city. Step into the Dubai Mall where you can speed through its over 1200 outlets, dine at its massive food court, and check out its widest spectrum of leisure choices, particularly Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink, KidZania Dubai, and VR Park Dubai – the world’s largest Virtual Reality Park.
The star highlight of Downtown Dubai or probably Dubai itself is Burj Khalifa! As soon as you drop in here, it will instantly catch your attention with its soaring height of about 828 meters. So don’t miss it; you can make an entry here via the Dubai Mall. Most people come here for its ‘At The Top’ observation decks (on 124th and 148th levels) which are accessible on an extraordinarily swift elevator ride. Most stunning views over the city skyline and beyond await you as the doors of elevator open. Sunset is one of the best times to catch this view!
Back on the ground and before you retire for the day, head straight to Burj Lake that is outside of the Dubai Mall. It is where the marvelous Dubai Fountain show takes place. You can watch this choreographed water show (in breathtaking harmony of light and music) for free. If you are willing to spend a bit of money, you can take in this from an exclusive standpoint with an abra ride or via standing at the dedicated Dubai Fountain Boardwalk.
Top Tips for Day One
- Whether you prefer to go on a personalized city tour or choose options such as Big Bus Tour, make sure that you pre-book to avoid any kind of hassles.
- To make the most of attractions in Downtown Dubai, consider buying combo pass such as At the Top Burj Khalifa ticket with Abra Ride at Burj Lake or entry tickets that offer access to VR Park Dubai, KidZania Dubai etc.
Day 2: Morning Desert Safari, Theme Park, Shopping, And Dhow Cruise
Early Morning: Desert Safari: No Dubai trip, especially your debut trip, is complete without going on a guided desert safari. So start your second day early and right off by venturing out to Dubai’s isolated yet safe desert region. Enjoy dune bash aboard a powerful 4X4 vehicle, watch the mindblowing sunrise views, and take a camel ride that lets you experience the sheer beauty and tranquility of Dubai’s desert from a distinct perspective.
Morning: Visit a Theme Park: Each of Dubai’s theme parks is unique and incredible in its own right. Not to mention, it is well worth setting aside a few hours to enjoy Dubai’s remarkable rides and games. Don’t know where to head? Visit the snow-themed Ski Dubai where you can immerse yourself in wintry fun throughout the year, or make a stop at IMG Worlds of Adventure; with four distinct zones to excite every age and ability, it is the world’s largest indoor theme park. For epic theme park fun, you can’t go wrong with Dubai Parks and Resorts. It is the first integrated resort in the Middle East, with multiple accommodation options (such as Lapita Hotel, Rove at the Park and LEGOLAND Hotel), a dedicated retail section, and mostly four parks: Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, LEGOLAND Dubai, and LEGOLAND Water Park. There are also kid-exclusive amusement parks such as Mattel Play! Town.
Afternoon till Evening: Shopping / Spa / Observation Decks: Squeezing in a mix of over 70 gigantic malls and an array of traditional bazaars (such as Gold Souk, Spice Souk and Perfume Souk) in its compact size, Dubai’s retail scene is definite to entice shoppers and non-shoppers alike. So after your lunch, you can set forth to purchase some marvelous, one-off souvenirs and other merchandise. Serious shoppers can sign up for an all-inclusive shopping tour. Don’t want to shop? Utilize this time to get a soul-soothing spa treatment at some of the region’s world-class facilities such as Talise Spa at Jumeirah Qasr Hotel or Amara Spa at Park Hyatt Dubai. Another alternative is to visit attractions such as Dubai Frame or the brand-new View at the Palm Jumeirah.
Evening: Dhow Cruise: There is no better way to wind up your Dubai itinerary than with a relaxed dhow cruise along the stylish Dubai Marina or more traditional Dubai Creek. It sails you down Dubai’s waters aboard a traditional Arabian dhow for two hours. Besides admiring the impressively illuminated night skyline views, it allows you to delight in a lavish meal and watch traditional performances like Tanura show during the ride.
Top Tips for Day 2
- As Dubai’s desert landscape is secluded and a bit far from the city centre, it is ideal to book a fully guided desert safari inclusive of roundtrip transfers.
- Book your theme park ticket in advance to save time and assure yourself of smooth access to its rides, attractions etc.
- To maximize savings, choose combo tours bundled with dhow cruise and tickets to attractions like Dubai Frame.
2 Day Dubai Itinerary Conclusion
2 days in Dubai is not adequate to cover all that this place has to offer. But with smart pre-planning, it serves as the perfect amount of time to get an incredible feel of this wonderful city. We assume that this post has given you some helpful ideas to make the most of your short Dubai trip.
Post written by http://www.dubaiwikia.com/
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