The ultimate itinerary for a long weekend in Dubai

It’s perfectly possible to spend a long weekend in Dubai and fit in a range of activities, from lounging on sun-soaked beaches like Kite Beach or Jumeirah Beach Residence to exploring the Dubai Spice Souk and even looking out over the desert from the top of the iconic Burj Khalifa. Dubai has it all, so stop off at the futuristic skyscrapers, explore all seven floors of the Museum of the Future, snap a pic by the Dubai Frame, and shop till you drop at the Dubai Mall as you cover all bases with this Dubai weekend itinerary.

A long weekend in Dubai: Know before you go

Why you should go: For skyscrapers that touch the clouds, views of the Palm, and spectacular water shows at the Dubai Fountain.

Don’t miss: Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

Best way to get around: Many visitors use taxis via apps like Uber and Careem, but Dubai also has a modern transport system—the Dubai Metro serves all the major sights.

Best time to go: Dubai is best between November and March when it’s cooler, and both the indoors and the outdoors can be enjoyed.

Insider tip: Friday is a religious day in the UAE, making it the quietest day for shopping and sightseeing, though restaurants also open later.

Weekend highlights in Dubai: Friday bottomless brunches at Jumeirah Beach.

Day 1: Discover the history and Emirati traditions of Dubai

Morning

Have breakfast in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

Start your day with a traditional Emirati breakfast at one of the local cafés in the Al Fahidi Historic Neighborhood. Set amidst the heritage wind towers, these cafés serve Arabic coffee and dishes like balaleet (a sweet vermicelli with eggs) and khameer flatbread, giving you a perfect introduction to must-try local dishes in Dubai.

Take a stroll through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

An interesting fact about Dubai is that it is one of the world’s youngest modern cities, so after breakfast, take the opportunity to get off the beaten path. Explore the narrow alleyways of Al Fahidi, one of Dubai’s oldest neighborhoods, and discover hidden art galleries and museums that showcase Dubai’s pre-oil history. Don’t miss the Dubai Museum in the Al Fahidi Fort, which offers a fascinating journey through the city’s evolution.

Afternoon

Cross the creek on an Abra

Take a traditional abra boat across Dubai Creek to Deira for just 1 AED (about 27 cents). The short ride gives you sweeping views of old souks and the modern skyline and is a cultural experience that harks back to Dubai’s humble trading beginnings.

Explore the gold and spice souks

Once across the creek, get lost, though not too lost, in the bustling Gold Souk and Spice Souk, just three minutes away from each other. Wander the maze-like markets where you’ll find aromatic spices, textiles, and gold jewelry in all shapes and sizes. Here, you can buy tax-free gold cheaper than many other places worldwide.

Evening

Have dinner at Dubai Creek

End your day with dinner at one of the waterside restaurants along Dubai Creek, where traditional fare looks like grilled meat, local fish like hammour (grouper), or machboos (spiced chicken or seafood and rice). Many spots offer stunning views of traditional wooden dhows (Arab sailing vessels) and luxury yachts.

Day 2: Take in Dubai’s iconic skyline

Morning

Have breakfast at The Dubai Mall

Have breakfast at Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping destination. Aside from the countless cafés and restaurants, you can also find a VR park and an Olympic-sized ice rink to get your blood pumping.

Head to the top of the Burj Khalifa

After exploring the mall, head up to the observation deck of the Burj Khalifa, one of Dubai’s unmissable landmarks, for panoramic views of the city. The world’s tallest building offers an unbeatable perspective of Dubai’s skyline, the Arabian Desert, and the Persian Gulf. Early visits are best to see the city bathed in a soft

Afternoon

See into 2050 at the Museum of the Future

From the outside, the elliptical structure designed by an algorithm makes it a breathtaking monument. Head inside the Museum of the Future to explore seven floors of the times ahead, from outer space resource development to the future of health and well-being. Floor 1, titled Future Heroes, is just one of the many family-friendly activities in Dubai.

Visit the Dubai Frame

Next, visit the iconic Dubai Frame in Zabeel Park. This massive golden structure frames views of Old Dubai on one side and the futuristic skyline on the other. It’s an iconic spot for fun photos.

Evening

Grab dinner with a water show at Dubai Fountain

In the evening, head back towards the Dubai Mall for dinner with a front-row view of the Dubai Fountain, one of the most epic things to do in Dubai at night. The choreographed water show (every 30 minutes from 6.00 PM-11.00 PM), set against the towering Burj Khalifa, is the perfect backdrop for your meal and is a quintessential Dubai experience. Watch as the fountains dance to music in a stunning visual spectacle—book dinner in advance as seats fill up fast for this free show.

Day 3: Explore Dubai’s beach scene

Morning

Breakfast at Kite Beach

The morning is the best time to enjoy the beach before the heat sets in. Start with a casual breakfast at Kite Beach, known for its relaxed vibe and beachfront cafés serving everything from acai bowls to gourmet sliders.

Try watersports in the Persian Gulf

After breakfast, take advantage of the cooler early hours to try watersports. Kite Beach is a hotspot for paddleboarding, kayaking, and kite surfing. If watersports aren’t your thing, enjoy a walk along the pristine shoreline or relax under a beach umbrella.

Afternoon

Have lunch at La Mer

For lunch, head to La Mer, Dubai’s trendy beachfront destination. Known for its eclectic mix of restaurants, La Mer offers a variety of cuisines, from street food to more upscale dining.

Visit Aquaventure Waterpark

As the day reaches the height of its heat, cool off at Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark, one of the most fun things to do in Dubai. After riding the Leap of Faith, a 60-foot waterslide through a shark-filled lagoon, unwind on the park’s private beach with views of the Palm.

Evening

Take a dinner cruise on a traditional show at Dubai Marina

As the sun sets, head to the Dubai Marina Walk, a stunning 4-mile (7 km) waterfront promenade. The path is perfect for a stroll, but it is best seen on a traditional wooden dhow cruise while enjoying a delicious dinner under the illuminated skyline—the perfect end to a long weekend in Dubai.

Weekend in Dubai: FAQs

What is the best time of year to visit Dubai?

The best time to visit Dubai is between November and March. The weather is cooler, so you can enjoy outdoor activities without melting. Summer is a great time to visit as it’s festival season, and many events, like shopping festivals and cultural shows, are happening all around the city. However, bear in mind that most of the activities will be indoors to avoid the heat.

Is everything open in Dubai on Fridays?

In Dubai, Fridays mark the start of the weekend and are a holy day for Muslims, though most of the city remains open. Major attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Miracle Garden operate as usual, and malls and restaurants are typically busier, as many people go out for brunch after Friday prayers in the afternoon. Traditional markets, like the Gold and Spice Souks, may open later in the day. Licensed venues will still serve alcohol, though some bars delay opening until after prayers.

What are the best Dubai neighborhoods to visit and stay in?

For first-timers, you can’t go wrong with Downtown Dubai—it’s home to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the Dubai Fountain. If you want a beach vibe, stay in Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) or Dubai Marina, where you can stroll along the water or hit up cool beach clubs. For a more local, laid-back feel, head to Al Fahidi in the old town for traditional souks and history. And if you’re into nightlife or trendy cafés, Business Bay is the best place to stay.

Is it worth going to Dubai for a weekend?

Absolutely, a long weekend in Dubai offers a whirlwind of diverse experiences, making it well worth the trip. In just a few days, you can ascend the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, shop and dine at the opulent Dubai Mall, and relax at Jumeirah Beach. Adventure seekers can fit in an evening desert safari with dune bashing and a Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. History buffs can explore the Al Fahidi District or dine on a traditional dhow boat at Dubai Marina. With its seamless transportation and endless attractions, Dubai is one of the best places in the world to spend a weekend.

What are the must-sees on a weekend in Dubai?

On a quick weekend trip to Dubai, hit the Burj Khalifa for those sky-high views and The Dubai Mall for the sheer madness of it all. Take a stroll by Dubai Marina or chill at JBR Beach for some sun and sea. If you’re more into culture, head to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood and the Dubai Museum. And, if you want some adrenaline, go on an evening desert safari.