Dubai in 4 Days: A Practical Itinerary

Four days is the sweet spot for a first Dubai trip. The trick is grouping by area — Dubai is spread out, and crossing it twice a day wastes hours.

Day 1 — Old Dubai

Start in Deira and Bur Dubai: gold and spice souks, an abra boat across the Creek for 1 dirham, Al Fahidi old town and the Dubai Museum area. End with a dhow dinner cruise if you like, or a cheap and excellent Deira dinner.

Day 2 — Downtown

Burj Khalifa in the morning (book ahead), Dubai Mall and the aquarium, then the fountain show after dark. Our Dubai guide has the ticket options.

Day 3 — Desert safari

A slow morning, then an afternoon-to-evening desert safari: dunes, camel ride, sandboarding and a camp BBQ. This is the one paid experience almost everyone rates as the highlight.

Day 4 — Beach & Marina

JBR beach in the morning, a walk around Dubai Marina, and Bluewaters/Ain Dubai if time allows before your flight.