What to do on a 24-hour Dubai stopover

Sitting almost halfway between Europe and Asia, Dubai is the perfect stopover destination in the United Arab Emirates. It is serviced by some of the best airlines in the world, is almost certain to be sunny and warm, and offers visitors a wonderful contrast to their final destination – wherever that may be. We’ve put together a few ideas for the ultimate, 24-hour city experience, so that you can conquer Dubai in one day during an epic stopover.

Dubai in one day: what to do during your stopover

Whether you’re looking to relax on golden beaches, explore bustling souks, or marvel at the city’s modern marvels, there’s something for everyone. From sunrise at the Burj Khalifa to a thrilling desert safari, Dubai offers the perfect combination of tradition and luxury.

See the sunrise at the Burj Khalifa

Start your day on a high at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. Book an early morning ticket to the At the Top observation deck, where you can marvel at the city from the observation decks on levels 124 and 125. Once you step out of the world’s fastest double-deck elevators, you’ll be mesmerized by the city views from the public observation deck. Gaze at Dubai’s iconic landmarks using the high-powered telescopes, then head to level 125 to enjoy 360-degree views, 452m (1,482ft) from the ground.

To catch the sunrise, try to arrive 30 minutes before to allow time for security, and the elevator ride up. The early start might be tough, but this view is worth it! The morning rays of the sun stretch across the horizon, illuminating the desert on one side and the Arabian Gulf on the other.

Relax on Jumeirah Beach Park

If you have the time and the inclination, Jumeirah Beach Park is the best public beach in town. For a nominal entrance fee, enjoy manicured gardens, refreshment kiosks, changing facilities, palm groves, picnic areas, and a great big beach with shelving sands and warm, clean water.

Families with kids will love the play areas and open spaces, while active travelers can enjoy beach volleyball or paddleboarding. Shaded spots under the park’s palm trees make it a laid-back spot to escape the midday heat.

Explore cultural heritage at Al Fahidi Fort

Step into Dubai’s past with a visit to the Dubai Museum, housed in the historic Al Fahidi Fort. Dating back to the 18th century, it’s one of the city’s few remaining historic structures. It’s an exciting attraction for all ages, where you can explore traditional Bedouin life through interactive displays, watch videos on Dubai’s construction boom, and learn about the native flora and fauna.

This stop offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s transformation from a modest settlement to an international icon. Best of all, the indoor attraction offers an air-conditioned setting to cool off.

If you’re a history fan, explore Dubai’s past with a visit to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood. Just a short walk from Al Fahidi Fort and located along Dubai Creek, this historic district is a great spot to wander. Meander through its winding, narrow streets and admire the traditional architecture for a glimpse of the city’s pre-oil era. Browse local art galleries and small museums dotted throughout the district and learn more about Emirati culture and heritage.

Don’t miss the cozy Coffee Museum, where you can learn about the roasting and brewing styles and coffee traditions around the world while sipping on freshly brewed Arabic coffee.

Shop your heart out at the Dubai Mall

As the heat of the day starts to wane, stroll around the Dubai Mall, the world’s largest. It offers a huge variety of shops as well as an impressive aquarium, ice rink and cinema complex. Two large food halls and numerous cafes and restaurants ensure you are never more than a few feet away from refreshments. The mall is as much part of Dubai’s culture as the old fort.

Before leaving, stroll around the beautifully decorated Chinatown with its neon signs and lanterns, then let the kids loose at the massive arcade and Virtual Reality experience. With over 1,200 stores and countless attractions, you could easily spend a whole day here.

Embark on afternoon safari adventures

If you’re looking for a bucket list adventure during your 24 hours in Dubai, an afternoon desert safari is a must. Book a tour that picks you up from your hotel and takes you directly to Dubai’s mesmerizing sand dunes.

For adventure-lovers, we’d recommend an adrenaline-pumping, dune-bashing excursion in a 4×4 for a thrilling ride through steep slopes and sandy peaks. Many safari adventure tours also include a stop at a Bedouin-style camp, where you can experience henna art, falconry, and belly dance performances.

Explore bustling souk markets

To escape the bright lights and bling head north to Dubai Creek, and catch an abra across the water to the old souks. Take a stroll along the dhow wharfage and witness these low tech wooden boats loading up with an unbelievable range of goods, from sacks of whole spices to washing machines and even cars. A fascinating hive of activity permeates along the creek.

This part of Dubai sits in almost complete contrast to the modern districts and feels much more Middle Eastern. The Spice Souk is always a wonderful experience and you will be offered everything from amber to cardamon to rose petals but the best buys are vanilla and saffron. The Gold Souk has more dazzle than the rest of the city combined.

Be dazzled by Dubai’s evening entertainment

As the sun goes down we recommend a drink at one of the many bars overlooking the Burj al Arab at the Madinat Jumeirah. Finish your night back at the Dubai Mall with an al fresco Lebanese meal at Wafi Gourmet, offering a wide range of delicious Lebanese dishes.

Grab a table with a view of the lake at dusk onwards to take in the impressive light-sound-water show at the foot of the neck-achingly high Burj al Khalifa (the world’s tallest building), which will light up in synchrony.

Essential tips for a smooth experience

Make the most of seeing Dubai in one day by doing a little planning. Here are a few important tips to keep in mind:

• For a stress-free stopover, first check if you’re eligible for a visa-on-arrival or apply for a transit visa beforehand. For more information, read up on Dubai’s tourist visa requirements.
• When packing for Dubai, bring a light jacket or scarf and prepare to dress modestly—covering shoulders and knees is recommended.
• Start your day early to beat the crowds at popular attractions and pre-book tickets for experiences like observation decks and desert safaris, as these tend to sell out quickly.
• While Dubai is a mostly cashless city, having a small amount of cash on hand is helpful for visiting local markets like the Gold Souk or buying souvenirs.
• Most importantly, familiarize yourself with local customs and laws.

Exploring Dubai in one day like a local: etiquette tips, dos and don’ts

Respecting the local culture is essential when visiting Dubai. While the city is known for its modernity, its traditions remain deeply rooted:

• It is advised to dress modestly in public spaces, especially in mosques or cultural attractions. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing sleeveless tops.
• Public displays of affection are frowned upon, so keep interactions reserved.
• You should always ask for permission before photographing locals, especially women.
• Finally, be mindful of the laws around alcohol consumption. It’s only allowed in licensed venues, and being intoxicated in public is a serious offense. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.

Getting around in Dubai: local transport options

Navigating Dubai is a breeze thanks to its efficient transport network. The Dubai Metro is fast and well-connected, making it easy to reach top attractions like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Marina. A Nol card makes it easy to pay across the metro, buses, and trams. For shorter distances, taxis are available and metered, but ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem have become more popular to get from A to B.

Renting a car is a good option if you’re venturing into the desert and far distances, but driving in the city can be overwhelming with its heavy traffic. For an authentic (and budget-friendly) way to travel, hop on a traditional abra boat and take a scenic trip across the iconic Dubai Creek.

Make it happen

Dubai is one of the most thrilling and fascinating destinations to pin on the map, whether you’re exploring the United Arab Emirates in depth or just spending 24 hours in this glitzy city. Get in touch with our local experts for more tips and recommendations on experiencing Dubai in one day, and seek out their firsthand insights to help you plan a wider UAE adventure.