Dubai is a shining jewel of the Uunited Arab Emirates, a perfect blend of tradition and modernity, making it an ideal destination. With just two days of stopover in this vibrant city, we were able to experience an essence of luxury, culture and adventure. We made the most of our 48 hours in Dubai!
Day 1: Modern Wonders
Upon arriving at the gigantic Dubai International Airport, our fascination with the city begins. A sample of opulence and dynamism. The ideal is to choose a hotel in the city center for faster access to the main attractions. In this edition we share two options that are a must in the city (the Waldorf Astoria DIFC and the Shangri-La Dubai – both phenomenal).
We started the day with a coffee at Souk Al Bahar, which offers stunning views of the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain. That’s where we’re headed. The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and a global architectural icon, so it deserves a must-visit where you can climb to the 125th floor and feel like you’re in the clouds. Next, we visited some stores in the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the world where, in addition to shopping, it is also possible to visit the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo and the VR Park for some fun experiences. It is also here that we opt for one of the Dubai Mall’s multiple restaurants to sample local cuisine and authentic flavors.
Adventure Afternoon – Desert Safari
In the evening we returned to the city center and visited the Dubai Fountain Show, a choreographed show of water, light and music, absolutely unmissable.
Later in the afternoon, we embarked on a desert safari. A camel ride through the dunes where we visited a traditional Bedouin camp. A unique moment of relaxation and immersion in local culture, accompanied by dinner, belly dancing and a Tanoura show under the stars.
Day 2: Encountering Culture
We start the second day with a visit to Dubai Creek for a traditional boat trip along the creek to see the old part of the city, where we also go to the bustling Gold Souk and Spice Souk in Deira. A myriad of aromas and landscapes that provide an authentic Arabian experience.
In the afternoon, after a traditional lunch, we visited the beautiful Jumeirah Mosque, one of the few mosques in Dubai open to non-Muslims, whose guided tours provide information about Emirati culture and religion. For those opting for a quieter afternoon, La Mer Beach is a beachfront destination that offers sun, sand and sea, as well as a variety of dining and shopping options.
In the evening we head to Dubai Marina for a night stroll along Marina Walk with stunning views of the skyline in a bustling atmosphere. A dinner cruise around Dubai Marina is one of the best ways to end our trip while admiring the stunning cityscape.
A two-day layover in Dubai offers a whirlwind of experiences, from skyscrapers and luxury shopping to cultural insights and desert adventures. We leave with unforgettable memories of this dynamic city and a desire to visit more often and, preferably, for longer!
By Carla Branco