Best Things to do & See in Dubai in one day

Guest Post by Neha Singh, a professional and established Travel Blogger on the Best Things to do & See in Dubai. Please visit her website DubaiWikia to read her blogs related to Dubai

Dubai isn't a city whose attractions and activities could be well-consumed in just a day. For enjoying even its major landmarks would need enough number of days. However, if you have only 24 hours to scan Dubai, curate a smart plan to squeeze the most out of the emirate in the limited stay. Here is a tested and proved one day in Dubai itinerary-Best Things to do & See in Dubai.

Morning:

1.  Visit the artificial Palm Jumeirah island – One of the Best Things to do & See in Dubai

In a city full of incredible architecture and awe-inspiring wonders, this man-made island of Dubai is a feather to the cap. It has been a talk of the town for quite a while now for being one of the daring developments in the world. This ambitious project includes three islands, Palm Jumeirah, Deira Islands, and Palm Jebel Ali settled on the coast of Dubai. Each island of the famous archipelago is planned to have residential, leisure and entertainment centers. Of the three, the Palm Jumeirah has been successfully constructed and opened for the public, and as the name says, it is shaped like a large palm tree boasting a crescent top. 

So, kick start your morning by visiting this exotic destination, thriving with eateries, beach clubs, hotels, spa, resorts, and parks. It has got a 7km walkway where people hang out, unwind, grab snacks and shop. It is so magnificent that you could be strolling around and would have already fallen in love with Dubai. 

Head towards wildlife encounters at the Lost Chambers Aquarium and Dolphin Bay. But if you are an addict for luxury who would rather want to stay in a palatial suite, knock the doors of Atlantis The Palm. Don't forget your swimwear as you splash in the Aquaventure Waterpark which has rides, beaches, and pools. Later, catch a breath and have a boozy brunch at restaurants in this 5-star resort.

Moreover, to cut short the time and see the Jumeirah in its real grandeur, take a helicopter ride or paddle around the palm. For adrenaline junkies,  you can skydive from a height of 4,000 meters above the Palm and have a bird-eye view of this jewel.

Afternoon:

2.  Take a turn to the Old Dubai – One of the Best Things to do & See in Dubai

An incredible number of tourists flock to souks, either they have hopped off the flight for one day in Dubai or are staying for a long week. It is exciting to browse windows after windows of exquisite gold jewelry, mounds of spices and herbs, piles of rugs and carpets, and varieties of textiles. Simply grab a metro and you would be in Old Dubai. And you are all welcome to haggle and bring down the price of any products, even gold.

Since you are here, have a tour to the Al Bastakiya Quarter, also called Al Fahidi Historical District. Tucked between Dubai Creek and the Bur Dubai district, it holds the memories of an era when Dubai was a pearl trading village. Get a seat on the iconic Abra ride along the Creek (which was once an important part of the trading process) and discover yourself landed in the oldest standing residential building. It is bewildering to escape the urbanization and roam in the tight, winding alleyways, observe the mud homes adorned with wind towers, and inspect the conventional lifestyle. Most of the wooden doors that you knock, would open to the galleries, cafes, and hotels. It has Arabian Tea House for refreshments, or get lunch in the traditional Emirati restaurant.

Evening:

3.  Ascend the world's tallest building – One of the Best Things to do & See in Dubai

Most travelers have only Burj Khalifa in their mind whenever they think of Dubai and thus, this is the most demanded attraction. Book the ticket to Burj Khalifa beforehand, skip the line and climb upwards in the fastest elevator to the 124th floor where you can use a telescope to see the landmarks of Dubai up-close. Keep the slots reserved for the evening, as the view from the top during sunset is mesmerizing. Then step a floor upwards, and on 125th floor is a public terrace offering sweeping outlook. And in case you want to spy the city from the highest observation deck on the globe, upgrade your ticket and escalate to the 148th floor. Marvel at the unparalleled panoramic views of the city, its mind-blowing skyline, the stretch of desert and beautiful beaches- all at a peek. There are lounges on different floors to sip tea and eat a piece of cake with this awe-inspiring view. If you are looking to calm your hunger pangs on the way, duck into the At.Mosphere, which is an excellent restaurant and you can relish meals in a very luxurious setting.

4.  Watch the Dubai Fountain

The world's largest choreographed fountain is situated on Burj Lake, in front of Burj Khalifa, which dances to the tunes of world-class music. The performance occurs every half an hour, and you can witness this ecstatic dance either from the top of the world or standing near the Dubai Mall, or sailing on the Burj Lake. Wrap your day with a scrumptious dinner at Downtown Eats.

Night:

5.  Stop over in the second largest mall

There would be still time for you to explore something remarkable here. So, drop by the neighbor of Burj Khalifa, the legendary and largest Dubai Mall. This is not your typical mall, as you could go beyond shopping. Well, shopping is definitely its forte as it squeezes top brands from the world in its Fashion Avenue, but besides that, it indulges you in many entertaining options. From KidZania, VR Park and Hysteria to Dubai Ice Rink and Reel Cinemas, this place is a paradise for vacationers. And if nothing, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo could give you a representation of Dubai's innovative and gigantic inventions. Get the entry and you can dive with 33,000 aquatic creatures from 140 marine species, including sharks and rays. Take an hour private guided tour where you can feed the sharks, catch the behind the scenes and appreciate the underwater wildlife like never before.

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The hop on hop off bus tour is another idea that could give you a glimpse of all the impressive landmarks in Dubai as it drives down Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai's main highway, and rest comprising 40 stops. You get plenty of time to disembark, snap pictures and admire the aesthetic pleasure.

Conclusion

The itinerary is meant to not over exhaust you or burns you out and thus, it includes bits and pieces of both Old and New Dubai. This short trip would prickle the curiosity deeper. And thus, you would be back in the city soon to travel more and better.

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