How to Make the Most of Your Layover in Dubai

The jewel of the UAE, Dubai, is a place like no other. With its towering skyscrapers, sprawling desert landscapes, and shopping malls, Dubai captures the imagination of travellers. For many international travellers, Dubai serves as a major hub, and if you like to travel internationally, there’s a good chance that at some point in the future, you’ll have a layover in this dazzling city.

Plan Ahead  

The key to maximising your layover in Dubai is to plan ahead. This dynamic city offers you endless possibilities, from cultural experiences, gastronomic delights, shopping extravaganzas, and adventure activities. You need to research and list down the attractions that interest you. Some of the popular landmarks in Dubai include the Dubai Mall, the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain, and the Palm Jumeriah.  

You need to consider the location of these attractions and the time it would take to travel between them. If the layover is going to be more than a few hours, you should consider booking accommodation close to the airport. You have a plethora of options, including Anantara World Islands Dubai, which is one property that will offer you a beach villa in Dubai.

Use the Metro

The Dubai Metro isn’t just a mode of transportation; it’s an experience in itself. The trains don’t come with drivers, and they are air-conditioned, which is a boon in the scorching heat. The Red Line runs along the city’s length, and it stops at all the major attractions. You should grab a map and plot your stops to make the most of your time.

Visit the Burj Khalifa

The iconic Burj Khalifa is a sight to behold. Standing tall at 828 metres, the Burj Khalifa brings you unparalleled views of the city. For the At The Top observation deck, you need to book tickets in advance. For the best experience, you should visit at sunset, but the sunset slots fill up fast, so book as early as possible. If you are a fan of heights, consider signing up for the SKY experience.

Shop to Your Heart’s Content  

Dubai is synonymous with shopping. The Dubai Mall, for instance, is home to over 1,200 stores, and it’s a shopping mecca. Here at the Dubai Mall, it’s not just about retail therapy; the mall has an aquarium and an ice rink too. If you are looking for a more traditional experience, visit the Spice Souk in Deira and the Gold Souk.

Sample the Local Cuisine

The food scene in Dubai is incredibly diverse, with options ranging from Michelin-starred restaurants to street food stalls. Try local dishes like shawarma, falafel, al harees, and hummus. Street markets offer the best traditional food experience, while restaurants bring you a refined dining experience.

Take a Desert Safari

If there’s enough time, a desert safari can be an unforgettable experience. Most tours include pick-up and drop-off from your location. Activities usually include dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and a BBQ dinner at a desert camp, complete with belly dancing and traditional Tanoura dance performances.

Relax at the Airport

Dubai International Airport is a destination in its own right. If you don’t have enough time to venture into the city, there’s plenty to do here at the airport. You can explore the duty-free shops, relax in one of the many lounges, get a massage at the spa, or take a dip in the swimming pool.

Things to Remember

Your layover in Dubai doesn’t have to be boring; you should make sure that it’s a memorable one. But keep these things in mind:

Keep a close eye on the time. It's easy to get caught up in the excitement and lose track of time.

Keep important documents like your passport and boarding pass in a safe and accessible place.

Dress modestly. While Dubai is cosmopolitan, it is still part of a conservative culture. Modest dress is a sign of respect and appreciated by the locals.