Four days is enough to see the essentials without rushing. This plan groups sights by area so you spend your time exploring rather than in traffic.
Day 1: Downtown
Start with a morning slot at At the Top, Burj Khalifa, when the air is often clearer. Spend the middle of the day in The Dubai Mall and the aquarium. As the light fades, walk the promenade around Burj Lake and watch the Dubai Fountain, which runs every 30 minutes in the evening.
Day 2: Old Dubai
Take the Metro to Sharaf DG station (formerly Al Fahidi) and wander the lanes of Al Fahidi. Visit Al Shindagha Museum, then cross the creek by abra to the Spice and Gold Souks. End with dinner by the creek at Al Seef.
Day 3: Beach and Palm
Spend the morning at Kite Beach or La Mer. In the afternoon head to Palm Jumeirah for The View at The Palm at sunset.
Day 4: Desert
Keep the morning free, then join an evening desert safari: dunes, sunset and dinner at camp. Read our desert safari guide first.
Where to stay
For this plan, Downtown or Business Bay keeps you close to the Metro and the big sights. See our area-by-area accommodation guide.
Good to know
- The Museum of the Future is closed until early 2027 for a new exhibition, but its exterior is worth a photo stop near Emirates Towers.
- Buy a Silver Nol card on day one.