There’s nothing like a 13-hour flight to make you feel like you’re in an entirely different world. When I land in Dubai, it’s not just the time difference that hits, but the otherworldly skyline, the hum of sports cars and the feeling that I’ve stepped onto another planet. Even the airport, which provides free SIM cards to all visitors, feels futuristic.
As we drive down the highway to the city centre, the skyscrapers loom, and there’s a buzz to the city that rivals New York. Whether you’re here for a layover or a longer escape, here’s how to make the most of 72 hours in this shimmering, uber-luxe city.
Day one
Start big or go home, right? Push the jet lag aside and get up bright and early to reach the top of the Burj Khalifa. A visit to the world’s tallest building, a soaring 2,722 feet above ground, is the best way to take in the city and get a sense of Old Dubai and New Dubai in one dizzying glance.
Skip the mega malls (tempting though they may be) and head to the souks to experience the beating heart of the city’s cultural and commercial heritage. The souks specialize in gold, spices, textiles and perfume. Souk Al Bahar is a short walk from the Burj Khalifa — bring cash and be prepared to haggle.
While in Old Dubai, book a food tour with Frying Pan Adventures and allow a local expert to help you navigate the stalls. Spend three hours walking through Old Dubai, stopping at traditional stalls along the way while indulging in delicious snacks and rich history.
Day two
With a bit of knowledge under your belt, start your day at the famous Museum of The Future, easily reachable by Dubai Metro. From climate change and space travel, to uncomfortably lifelike robots, it’s a sneak preview of where Dubai (and the world) is headed.
About 15 minutes away by taxi, you’ll find the Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi, a place to slow things down with an authentic Emirati experience. From the traditional setting to the huge tea program and Emirati breakfast plates, it’s the perfect escape from modern Dubai.
Return to your hotel to freshen up, then get picked up in the evening for an eco-conscious Platinum Heritage Safari. You’ll drive vintage Land Rovers through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (which prohibits dune bashing to protect local wildlife and natural terrain) before stopping at sunset for a falcon show and tea. The night wraps up at a Bedouin camp with an authentic Emirati dinner, dancing and camel rides. If there’s one activity that’ll give you a true sense of place, it’s this.
Day three
The Atlantis is more than a place to rest your head. For your last day, staying close to your hotel doesn’t mean you need to compromise on thrills. Start your day on the beach, then float above Palm Jumeirah in the Dubai Balloon. It’s not just great for envy-inducing shots — but it’ll also provide the scale of the Atlantis, The Palm resort and its waterpark, which currently holds the Guinness World Record for the most slides.
The truly bold can don goggles and play underwater with the stingrays, fish and sharks at The Lost Chambers Aquarium. Don’t worry: You’ll have a certified buddy with you, and the sharks play nice. For dinner, head to Ariana’s Persian Kitchen in the neighbouring sister resort, Atlantis The Royal, to enjoy a woman-driven restaurant concept that merges the tradition of Persian cuisine and culture with modern Dubai.
If you’re looking to get off the resort, Orfali Brothers is an Uber ride away and promises one of the most unique meals of your trip.
Stay
Atlantis the Royal
Experience Dubai by staying right in the City Centre at Hollywood-themed Paramount Hotel, which serves one of the most expansive breakfast buffets I’ve ever seen. For beachgoers, The Atlantis on Palm Jumeirah is everything Dubai represents: big, bold and lavish.
