I cannot believe how much Dubai has changed over the last 6-7 years.. It used to be seen as a flashy metropolis built on sand by wealthy sheiks – however, over several years Dubai has turned into a stunning cosmopolitan city hosting prominent international cultural events, fancy cuisine, sophisticated flavors, and incredible shows, all in the middle of an unforgettable atmosphere.

The truth is Dubai is a well of entertainment, maybe the best you had in your life. If you are limited with time it may be hard to decide what to see in Dubai – thus follow my 3 day Dubai itinerary proposition to discover the best highlights for a lifetime adventure at affordable options. There isn’t an amount of money you could not spend in Dubai, it’s more on how not to break your wallet on a short trip to Dubai.

Affordable 3 day Dubai itinerary.

$$$ certainly helped to achieve today’s status of this metropolis but they are not enough to do the job 😉.. Dubai is the land of the most magnificent architectural design in this part of the world, the city has also become a sophisticated international exhibition, technology and digital art center. It all required a lot of strategic planning and the highest level of knowledge.

UAE is a federation of seven emirates situated in the Middle East with the official language is Arabic and the official currency is the United Arab Emirates dirham. It is almost impossible to get a UAE passport, you are welcome to live and work but you will never become a resident unless you live there for 30 years or provide an exceptional service to the country.

Where is Dubai?

Dubai is located on the Persian Gulf coast of the United Arab Emirates. It shares borders with Abu Dhabi in the south, Oman country and Saudi Arabia. There are about 5.5 million people living in Dubai. The number of foreigners working and living in Dubai has reached 4 million, for a number of reasons: fantastic job opportunities, great quality of life and incredible business support services, and financing options.

Is Dubai a country?

NO. Dubai is one of the 7 Emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. Second best now city would be Abu Dhabi with the most amazing Formula 1 track in the world. Abu Dhabi is also the capital of United Arab Emirates.

Is Dubai city safe?

Dubai city is highly safe in every part of the city and at any time of the day. There are no drunk drivers either, since the government introduced severe penalties and even prison for drivers who break safety rules. Another significant government effort is making the city socially progressive by offering equal opportunities and standards for both men and women.

What's the weather like UAE?

Hahhaa, don’t let it freak you out.. ! OK It’s hot!! Very very hot OK! During summer temperatures can reach 50 Celsius degrees. That’s why people are busy with work in the morning because most public places would close during a day (restaurants, bars) to reopen at 6-7pm. It’s much cooler in the evening time and nightlife is viral until at least 1-2am. The coldest month is January with temperatures around 20 Celsius degrees.

Practical info on arrival in Dubai city.

VISA – European countries would obtain visa on arrival, some countries are visa free but for all the rest VISA is mandatory. So check VISA requirements online before you travel.

FREE SIM CARD IS AVAILABLE AT THE AIRPORT – at the passport counter ask for a FREE SIM CARD with 1 GB data. They have a boxes with FREE SIM CARDS. Very useful especially for the start, although most spots in Dubai offer free wifi (shopping centres, culture attractions, restaurants, etc.).

GRAB FREE VERSION OF TIME OUT MAGAZINE – a free airport magazine – it’s brilliant! It contain best information on all Dubai events, entertainment, cuisine, exhibitions, best sights for traveling with kids, and many more.

TOURIST OFFICE – You’ll be able to get more prctical info on city tours, transportation and get a free city map with all landmarks. It will be very useful to find out where major things are located in Dubai city.

For all golf and horse racing lovers – you will never get bored here!

TAXIS & UBER – Uber operates in Dubai buuutt it’s more expensive than taxis!! So don’t bother 😉 I managed to figure this out after 2 days. The price is high because most of the cars would be Lexus.

I advise purchasing travel insurance before traveling to Dubai/UAE. My top choice is SafetyWing Nomad insurance.

With so many wonders in Dubai, it may be hard to decide what sights are best to visit. In my 3 day Dubai itinerary I included some must-see destinations but also have a few sites that are less known by the visitors but represent the essentials of the Arabic culture.

DAY 1 itinerary in Dubai - Blinky night with Burj Khalifa!

Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall – both are among the top things to see in Dubai. The tallest building in the world should definitely have a primary place on your 3 day Dubai itinerary. This can be combined with a visit to Dubai Mall – a luxury shopping mall with plenty of food outlets. Don’t miss the magnificent Fontaine Monument inside Dubai Mall. From the mall, you can access Burj Khalifa.

With its 125 floors and 828 meters high Burj Khalifa offers a number of lifetime attractions including:

Burj Khalifa – for best entry ticket prices check HERE.
Aquarium and Burj Khalifa levels 124th and 125th combo ticket – HERE.
Fabulous restaurants on the 124^th and 125^th floor – Burj Khalifa 124 & Lunch or Dinner at Rooftop – for best packages check HERE.
The world’s biggest observation deck at the top floor
fastest elevator in the world and 360-degree views from the top.

What to do in Burj Khalifa Mall?

Try local food in one of the restaurants in the food hall. It’s much more affordable than restaurants at the top of the mall,
Dubai Aquarium,
One of the best viewing points at the top.

Dubai fontaine Show.

Dubai Fontaine Show ana lake ride by traditional boat on the Burj Lake. The Dubai Fountain is the world’s tallest performing Fontaine – you have to squeeze it into your 3 day Dubai itinerary.

The show is free to watch but you can access a viewing platform which is a paid option or go with a boat trip – you can obtain a ticket online (AED 75). The show goes live every 30 minutes from 6pm.

Dubai Fountain Show Boat Lake Ride or Bridge Walk Tickets options from only $10.

The lake is surrounded by most breath-taking blinking skyscrapers. With thousands people gathering around the lake, terraced restaurants, clubs, the place and music have a soothing vibe.

Street entertainment – Lamborghini in your favorite color available to rent for an hour/day/week – takes only 10 minutes to get the ride of your life. This is exactly the place you want to spend your evening; nightlife starts buzzing from 8 pm.

DAy 2 itinerary in Dubai City - Museum of the Future & Digital Art.

Time for some culture and art. You will have plenty of a choice when it comes to interesting art shows and exhibitions in Dubai and trust me they are well worth placing on your 3 day Dubai itinerary.

Museum of the Future – one of the most spectacular buildings I’ve seen in my life, definitely one of the Dubai’s top attractions. This architectural and engineering marvel takes you on a journey into the future. BOOK tickets here.

Book tickets well in advance, they are often sold out due to high number of visitors.

Obtain CITY PASS for the best prices on multi-attractions in the city.

‘New media Wonderland’ – The Theatre of Digital Art (ToDA) – below. Check what exhibition is on before you go. Virtual Reality room available inside, beautiful theatre show of digital art delivered by international talents.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah is really good choice if you’re planning some shopping, lots of original Arabic stuff and lovely original souvenirs. It’s based in the same building as the Theatre of Digital Art. Jumeirah Souk has to become a part of your 3 day Dubai itinerary, it’s a unique place and great walking destination.

Dubai Cuisines - where to try Emirati food?

Whatever you might think of Dubai, there is no doubt it offers a high-class dining experience. If you want to try top food this is the right city to do it. With its incredible cuisine which is a mix of Asian and Middle East food, it has developed its unique taste. All the restaurants I visited were exceptional. With 3 day Dubai itinerary you will have plenty of time to try one of the best food ever.

One of the best places for Emirati food is ‘Al Bait Al Shami Restaurant & Cafe’. Absolutely loved this place, crowded, and loud but so authentic! Traditional starters come with a selection of typical Emirati food, see food was delicious /grilled jumbo prawns and local fried fish/, my friends went for a kebab and lamb which I heard were the best choice.
GAL Restaurant & Lounge: culinary masterpiece.. Prices range between 50-100$/per person but well worth it. I would recommend booking a table in advance. The restaurant is located near Burj Khalifa Lake, offering stunning views of surrounding skyscrapers.
Nammos Restaurant – original Greek place located in Seven Seasons Resort. The restaurant was designed by Dior. Outside the indoor dining, there are sunbeds, and bungalows where you can chill with a beautiful view of the Bvlgari island!
The Lighthouse Pastry and Deserts – very pleasant stop for lunch and incredible lemon grass creme brulee.
Bakalava!!! Can’t miss trying in UAE!

Best Hotels in Dubai.

There are a number of premium hotels in Dubai with Burj Al Arab – a global icon of Arabian luxury. You may be skeptical of this type of luxury but there’s no doubt it is the most beautiful hotel that exists. With its private beach, the hotel is located at the coastline with prices aiming at 2000€ per night.

The average 4-5 star hotel would cost around $150-$200/per night.

The last time I stayed in 5* Star Grand Hyatt Hotel, located short drive from the airport. The interior of the hotel is lovely with many green plants and a waterfall. The nicest part was the outdoor pool and indorr restaurants. The foyer area is very spacious with many seats available in delicious cafes serving Emirati traditional food.

Affordable accommodation in Dubai.

Here are two best affordable options for Dubai:

4* Star Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton (~$75/per night)
The George Hotel by Saffron Dubai Creek in Deira District (~$35/per night)
Agoda.com provides many ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN DUBAI STARTING FROM $30/PER NIGHT for a double room.

DAY 3 itinerary in Dubai City - Beach & Desert Safari.

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah – seriously the most beautiful building in the world should be on your list for 3 day Dubai itinerary. As a great tennis fan, I will never forget the famous match between the two biggest ever tennis icons – Federer and Agassi on the helipad of the Jumeirah Hotel. To visit this 7-star hotel you can book a table in one of the 11 restaurants or book a tour Inside Burj Al Arab Tour.
For an unforgettable experience book a SPEAD BOAT TOUR across Atlantis the Palm and Burj Al Arab HERE.
BIG BUS DUBAI – explore the city on a bus tour or a city explorer pass. Tickets at the best price are available HERE.
Atlantis the Palm at night.

Other top attractions in Dubai City:

Ski Dubai – everyone knows there is an indoor ski slope in Dubai. I just have no idea why would you be skiing in Dubai when you came looking for some good weather and experience some unusual sights in the city centre. If you want to go skiing try Alps 😉
Desert Safari – Jeep, quad or bike safari. Really adventurous option if you like a bit of an extreme drive on sand dunes in a 4WD jeeps or quads. For best tours, sunset and BBQ book your tickets HERE.

Transportation in Dubai.

Dubai City offers a number of options for city transportation. Starting from the most convenient and cheapest – city underground.

DUBAI METRO – efficient way to explore the city. It is one of the most advanced and modern rail systems in the world.
TAXI – standardized fare system that uses a taximeter based on distance.
UBER – available in Dubai – but more expensive than a taxi!!!
BUSES – The public bus service operates very well in Dubai city. Additionally, Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) has deployed 45 ultra-modern commercial buses and coaches.

Sand (dust) storms in United Arab Emirates.

I had the opportunity to experience this phenomenon. Thick dust blanketed the United Arab Emirates! Authorities called to remain extremely vigilant, as the storm significantly reduced the visibility across the country. Flights weren’t affected this time and all airline operators continued their flights. Sandstorms are not unusual in this part of the Middle East. They most often hit during the summer. It results in poor visibility and air quality, which usually affects people’s health. Dusty conditions might trigger allergies like itchy throat, irritable eyes, throat and skin irritation, coughing, or sneezing. But common complaints include breathing difficulties, sleep disruption and headaches.

Dubai FAQ.

Can I drink alcohol in Dubai?

Yes, in most restaurants, bars and clubs a wide range of alcohol is available. Tourists are also allowed to purchase alcohol from local retailers /non-Muslims and those over 21 years old/.

Can I smoke in Dubai?

Smoking is not allowed in public areas in Dubai, you would have designated areas for smoking. However, most bars and some restaurants would allow smoking indoors. Shisha cafes are a common sight in the city and allow smoking but only indoors.

What should I wear in Dubai?

Dubai is pretty tolerant in terms of fashion. Perhaps because 4 million inhabitants are foreigners and only 1 million local people. But a respectful way would be to cover your shoulders and knees in public.

Dubai shots from the airplane!

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