Dubai is a holiday destination of a lifetime offering endless attractions, activities, sights and experiences.

From theme parks and waterparks to world-famous landmarks, there’s no end to the delights that await families, couples, friends and solo travellers. Sun-drenched beach days, thrilling water sports, shopping expeditions, cultural wonders, irresistible culinary creations and much more can also be enjoyed. The only trouble is how you’re going to fit everything in. If you’ve booked a holiday to Dubai and you’re planning how to make the most of your stay, help is at hand. Alternatively, you could use our itinerary inspiration as a guide if you’re considering how many days in Dubai is enough for your visit. With ideas for stops of just 24 hours up to stays of 7 days and more, you’re sure to find plenty of things to do and places to see during your trip to Dubai.

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What To Do In 24 Hours

There are lots of things you can fit into one day in Dubai. A good spot to start is Downtown Dubai, with an assortment of attractions nearby. Here you’ll find the world’s tallest building, the 828m-tall Burj Khalifa, standing alongside The Dubai Fountain, which comes to life every 30 minutes, from 6am to 11pm daily. The neighbouring Dubai Mall could be your next stop, offering a multitude of shops and restaurants, as well as family-friendly attractions such as Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink, Play DXB and KidZania. Another option to squeeze in nearby is the Sky Views Observatory, atop the Address Sky View hotel. A great place to enjoy views across Dubai, you can also ride down the Glass Slide, or brave the Edge Walk, on a ledge high above the city - with a safety harness of course.

What To Do In 2 Days

Offering a combination of beach bliss and city glitz, Dubai is an exceptional destination to include as part of a multicentre adventure, with two days plenty of time to sample the joys on offer. As well as experiencing Downtown Dubai, you can seek out some glorious sun, sea and sand at Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). Located between the Arabian Gulf and Dubai Marina, it is home to a host of luxury hotels and features a 1.7km stretch of shoreline, ideal for sunbathing and a great spot for water sports. The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence is also worth exploring, packed with dining destinations and shops. If you’re craving a cultural experience, visit some of Dubai’s souks, such as the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, Perfume Souk and Textile Souk. Offering everything from jewellery and clothing to souvenirs and handicrafts, these atmospheric marketplaces offer an authentic taste of Emirati life.

What To Do In 5 Days

A 5-day holiday in Dubai gives you the perfect amount of time to enjoy a superb mix of fun, exploration, culture and relaxation. If you’re travelling with children, a visit to one of the city’s phenomenal water parks is a must, with options including Aquaventure Waterpark, the world’s largest aquapark, Wild Wadi Waterpark and Legoland Water Park. Discover Dubai’s rich heritage at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, which shows what life was like during the mid-19th century and features cultural activities, museums, art galleries, special events and traditional food. A cruise along Dubai Creek in a traditional dhow boat also provides a fun glimpse into the past. If you’ve still got time to spare, why not treat yourself to a day of sun-drenched bliss poolside at your luxury Dubai hotel.

What To Do In 7 Days

Beach relaxation, waterpark fun, traditional treasures and iconic sights can all be embraced during a 7-day stay in Dubai, plus a whole lot more. For unrivalled excitement visit one of the sensational theme parks. Dubai Parks and Resorts - home to Motiongate Dubai, Legoland Dubai, Neon Galaxy, JumpX, Riverland™Dubai and Real Madrid World - is an amazing option. Meanwhile IMG Worlds of Adventure offers cartoon and superhero rides, and attractions galore. Other wonders to add to your itinerary include Ski Dubai, The Lost Chambers Aquarium, Dubai Crocodile Park, Burj Al Arab, Museum of The Future, Dubai Miracle Garden and Dubai Frame. With time on your hands, you can also try exciting activities from camel trekking and sandboarding in the desert to paddleboarding and jet skiing in the inviting waters of the Arabian Gulf.

Staying For Longer

If you’re lucky enough to stay in Dubai for longer than a week then the world’s your oyster when it comes to your holiday itinerary. As well as sightseeing, beach fun, waterpark escapades and cultural journeys, you can discover Dubai’s exceptional culinary scene. Trèsind Studio, Il Ristorante by Niko Romito, STAY by Yannick Alléno, Al Muntaha, L’Olivo, and Ossiano are just some of the emirate’s Michelin-starred dining venues, while celebrity chefs with a presence in the city include Gordon Ramsay, Heston Blumenthal, Jamie Oliver and Jason Atherton. A Bedouin camping experience could also be an option, allowing you to venture into the desert to enjoy an enchanting night under canvas. Stargazing sessions, a traditional meal and authentic Arabic entertainment are among the delights that await during this once-in-a-lifetime adventure.

Best Time To Visit

With year-round sunshine, Dubai is an ideal destination for a holiday whatever the season. No matter the length of your stay, you should enjoy great weather while exploring the city’s wondrous attractions. If your itinerary is packed with outdoor adventures, the period from November to April is a superb option, when you’ll find average temperatures of 25°C. The mercury rises from May to October, to around 30°C, and can even top 40°C at the height of the summer. This time of year is great if you’re planning water sports fun and water park visits, allowing you to keep cool in the hot weather. Indoor attractions also provide sanctuary from the sun - all of the major venues in Dubai, such as malls, restaurants, museums and hotels, are air-conditioned and comfortable to visit.

“Dubai is a sensational destination and well worth a visit no matter how much time you have.

“Glorious beaches, fun-filled theme parks, exciting aqua parks, world-famous landmarks, thrilling activities, unrivalled cuisine and unique cultural attractions all await.

“Whether you’re just passing through or staying for a week or more, you’ll want to pack as many iconic sights and incredible experiences as possible into your holiday.

“With so much to enjoy, that’s no easy task.

“However, with a bit of inspiration from our blog and a little planning, you can create the perfect itinerary for your visit and enjoy the time of your life no matter how long it’s for.”

Rixos Premium Dubai

Discover the delights of Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach Residence with a stay at this ultra-stylish 5-star haven overlooking glistening Arabian Gulf waters. Hours of pure bliss await on the private beach, while you’ll enjoy delectable cuisine in the splendid restaurants and embrace restful nights in elegant living spaces. Other wonderful features include a luxurious spa, state-of-the-art fitness centre, outdoor jungle gym, inviting swimming pools, a children’s club and water sports.

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Le Meridien Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Waterpark

Embrace family fun in abundance at this sensational 5-star beachfront sanctuary, set beside a dazzling 700m private stretch of sand. The fabulous Jungle Bay Waterpark, 5 glistening swimming pools, a sumptuous spa and fitness facilities are among the superb features at this phenomenal resort, along with a water sports centre and kids club. Inspiring culinary creations can be enjoyed at an assortment of exceptional dining destinations, while plush accommodation ensures a heavenly stay is had by all.

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Centara Mirage Beach Resort Dubai

A holiday full of wonder and excitement awaits families at this sensational retreat on a prime waterfront stretch of Deira Islands. Hours of fun will be had in the resort’s amazing water park, while other features include a sumptuous spa, outdoor playground, fitness centre, a private beach and water sports galore. You’ll stay in an exquisitely-appointed room or suite and have the choice of delicious mealtime options including Thai fusion, Argentinian, International and Middle Eastern cuisine.

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Taj Exotica Resort & Spa

Prepare to embrace the exotic side of life at a distinctive island oasis nestled beside a private white sand beach on the shores of Palm Jumeirah. Every exquisite room and suite at this 5-star sanctum of serenity offers an indulgent experience in luxury. You’ll discover unique culinary concepts inspired by cultures from all around the world, and enjoy features such as an award-winning spa, 24-hour fitness centre, superb sports facilities and the fun-filled Popsicle Kids Club.

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Banyan Tree Dubai

Escape to the tranquil shores of Dubai’s Bluewaters Island for a blissful escape beside 500 metres of pristine, private beachfront at this heavenly 5-star resort. Here you’ll discover a plethora of sublime amenities, dine on exquisite gastronomy in a choice of top-class restaurants and be made to feel right at home in lavish accommodation. Leisure features that await include a cutting-edge fitness centre, a sumptuous spa, glistening swimming pools and a lively kids club.

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Atlantis The Royal

Sculpted by the expert hands of world-leading designers, Atlantis The Royal is the newest addition to Dubai’s dazzling skyline. Known as ‘the most ultra-luxury experiential resort in the world', this architectural marvel reigns supreme over Palm Jumeirah. Experience an extraordinary holiday and immerse yourself in absolute luxury in one of the resort’s sophisticated suites and sip cocktails at Cloud 22, offering panoramic views of the city and a show-stopping 90-metre-high infinity pool. Dine across 18 world-class restaurants, including eight celebrity chef restaurants, and take self-care to the next level at the 5,000 sqm holistic spa, AWAKEN Wellness.

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