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How to Spend THREE to FIVE DAYS in Dubai, United Arab Emirates: 3 to 5-Day Itinerary

How to Spend THREE to FIVE DAYS in Dubai, United Arab Emirates: 3 to 5-Day Itinerary

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Overwhelmed by planning your Dubai trip? Let us make it easy for you!

Dubai is a destination where ultra-modern skylines, desert landscapes, and cultural gems all compete for your attention. With so much to see and do, it can feel overwhelming to decide what’s truly worth your time. That’s where we come in! 

After visiting Dubai for ourselves, we’ve narrowed down the must-do activities and created this itinerary to balance iconic sights with authentic experiences. Here’s how to make the most of your time in Dubai—day by day, stress-free, and packed with highlights you won’t want to miss.

Don’t Miss Out On Our Top Choice!

A camel in the desert on a tour from Dubai

The tour we loved the most and suggest booking ASAP is this one!

Our personal FAVORITE thing we did was this afternoon desert tour! We escaped the city and rode ATVs through the Red Dunes, followed by a Bedouin-style dinner, a camel ride, and stargazing in the desert.

Check out the 22,200+ 5-star reviews and book this tour here!

Itinerary Overview

Burj-Khalifa-in-Dubai UAE
The iconic Burj Khalifa
High rise buildings and streets in Dubai, UAE
Dubai is such a fun city to explore

Dubai is a city of contrasts—where futuristic skylines meet golden deserts and traditional souks. This 3–5 day itinerary is designed to help you experience both sides of the city with ease, covering everything from Old Dubai’s historic heart to luxury yacht cruises, desert safaris, and even a full-day trip to Abu Dhabi. 

Getting around is generally stress-free since most tours include hotel pickup and drop-off, but when traveling independently, Careem and Grab are the most reliable options for short trips. Taxis are plentiful, but with traffic in Dubai often unpredictable, it’s best to build in extra time when moving between activities.

Here’s a quick breakdown for your three to five days in Dubai:

Day 1: Step back in time with a guided tour of Old Dubai’s Al Fahidi district and souks, complete with tastings. Enjoy lunch by the creek at Mondoux before heading to Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa for shopping, panoramic views, and the fountain show. End the evening with a dinner cruise along Dubai Marina.

Day 2: Take a full-day guided trip to Abu Dhabi, visiting Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Corniche, Qasr Al Watan Palace, and Etihad Towers, with a photo stop at the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Return to Dubai for dinner at Time Out Market and cap the night with rooftop drinks overlooking the skyline.

Day 3: Begin with breakfast at Common Grounds before exploring the Museum of the Future. Lunch at The Guild sets you up for an afternoon desert safari, complete with ATV rides, camel trekking, a barbecue dinner, live entertainment, and stargazing.

Day 4: Slow down with breakfast at Risen Café before a luxury yacht cruise with BBQ lunch along the coast. Then spend the afternoon your way—take in the views from The Palm, shop Souk Madinat, or relax with a spa treatment. Dine on fresh seafood at Fish Beach Taverna, then unwind with a nighttime stroll along Marina Walk.

Day 5: Start at Harrie’s Pancakes in Nakheel Mall, then dive into a full day at Atlantis’ Aquaventure Waterpark with slides, lazy rivers, and family fun. Afterward, refuel at Kaleidoscope inside Atlantis before ending your trip with the spectacular La Perle by Dragone show in Al Habtoor City.

Day 1

Morning – Step back in time with an Old Dubai walking tour

Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood in Dubai
The Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood is like stepping back in time
Colorful good for sale in the souks of Dubai
Wandering the souks was so much fun

Kick off your Dubai adventure by exploring the city’s historic heart—Old Dubai. It’s a world away from the skyscrapers and luxury malls, and it’s the perfect way to ground your trip in culture before diving into the modern side. Wandering these neighborhoods on your own can feel overwhelming, so booking this guided tour really makes a difference.

We recommend choosing the premium 9:30 am to 12:30 pm option with hotel pickup. It’s not only convenient—no rushing across town first thing in the morning, but it also includes tastings and drinks along the way. So, you can either have a light breakfast before you head out or skip it altogether.

The journey begins in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, where you’ll step into narrow alleyways lined with traditional wind towers. With your guide explaining the area’s history, the stories of Old Dubai come to life. 

Afterward, you’ll head into the souks, navigating spice stalls, glittering gold shops, and textile markets. With insider tips on pricing and bargaining, you’ll feel confident enough to shop without the stress.

Along the way, you’ll stop to taste street food and local drinks—think crispy falafel, creamy chai, and refreshing sugarcane juice. It’s an immersive way to start your trip, and with THOUSANDS of five-star reviews backing it up, you’ll quickly see why travelers call this one of the best tours in Dubai!

Lunch – Mondoux

Bailey enjoys lunch in Dubai
Yum!
The outside of Mondoux in Dubai
Photo Credit: Mondoux

After your morning in Old Dubai, make your way to Mondoux, a modern riverside bistro along Dubai Creek. With its bright, stylish interior and terrace seating that overlooks the water, it’s a relaxing spot to recharge after exploring the souks and historic neighborhoods.

The menu blends international flavors with plenty of lighter options, from gourmet salads and flatbreads to fresh seafood dishes. Since it’s a popular choice, reservations are recommended—especially if you want a terrace table. With your tour ending around 12:30 pm, you’ll arrive just in time for a leisurely late lunch, finishing up around 2–3 pm before heading off to your next stop.

Afternoon – Take in the views from the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall

Dubai panoramic skyline view from Burj Khalifa
View from the Burj Khalifa
Dubai Fountain sunset show outside the Dubai Mall
The fountain show is a must-see!

From Mondoux, it’s just a short 10-minute walk to the Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa, making this the perfect way to spend your afternoon. Start by heading up the Burj Khalifa for the city’s most iconic views. There are several ticket options, but the basic “Sky Views Observatory” package at the Address Sky View Hotel is an affordable choice at around 80 AED (about $22 USD) per person. Since tickets often sell out, it’s best to book in advance online here.

After enjoying the sweeping panoramas, take your time exploring Dubai Mall, which is much more than a shopping center. Inside, you’ll find an enormous aquarium tank, high-end designer boutiques, family attractions, and plenty of cafés if you need a caffeine break. Whether you’re a serious shopper or just want to browse and people-watch, the mall is an attraction in itself.

Before you leave, be sure to step outside for the Dubai Fountain show, which takes place every 30 minutes, starting at 6 pm. With the Burj Khalifa as the backdrop, it’s a spectacular sight and a great way to wrap up the afternoon before moving on to dinner.

Dinner – Soak in the evening on a marina dinner cruise

Dubai Marina seen at night on a cruise in Dubai
The Dubai Marina at night is stunning
A salad eaten on a cruise in Dubai
Our salads were delicious!

End your first day in Dubai with this dinner cruise along the stunning Dubai Marina—a magical way to see the skyline lit up at night. 

After exploring the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, take a taxi to the marina (about 25–30 minutes) and plan to arrive 20–30 minutes before departure. We recommend booking the 8:30 pm option, which gives you plenty of time to make the transfer without rushing. Including check-in, the experience takes about two hours, finishing around 10 pm.

Once on board, you’ll be seated at your table and treated to sweeping views of the city as the boat glides past landmarks like the Ain Dubai observation wheel and the JBR resort, famous for its skyscraper with a hole in the middle. Seeing the skyline sparkle against the water is one of the most memorable sights in Dubai, and the relaxed pace of the cruise makes it easy to take it all in.

Dinner is served buffet-style with a mix of international dishes, fresh salads, and live cooking stations. Free-flow drinks are included, and the atmosphere is set with acoustic live music that feels both lively and laid-back. It’s the kind of evening that blends sightseeing with relaxation in the best possible way.

By the time the cruise docks, you’ll feel both satisfied and refreshed, having experienced Dubai from a completely different perspective. Then, head back to your hotel for a good night’s rest—you’ll want plenty of energy for the adventures that await on day two.

Day 2

Morning/afternoon – Discover Abu Dhabi with a guided day trip 

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi on a tour from Dubai
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
View from the top of the Etihad Towers in Abu Dhabi on a tour from Dubai
The view from the top of the Etihad Towers

Day two takes you beyond Dubai to explore the capital of the UAE—Abu Dhabi. This full-day guided trip is the easiest and most stress-free way to see the city’s highlights without worrying about transportation or planning. Pickup is around 8:45 am directly from your hotel, so grab breakfast beforehand. You’ll return to Dubai in the early evening (around 6–7 pm), with drop-off back at your hotel.

The first stop is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the most breathtaking landmarks in the world. With its gleaming white domes, marble courtyards, and intricate chandeliers, it’s the kind of place that leaves you completely awestruck. There’s also a food court on-site, making it a convenient stop for a quick lunch.

From there, the tour makes a photo stop outside the Louvre Abu Dhabi, an architectural masterpiece in its own right, before continuing along the Corniche promenade, where you’ll enjoy gorgeous views over the Arabian Gulf. Next is Qasr Al Watan Palace, a grand cultural landmark filled with ornate halls and stunning details that make it a photographer’s dream.

The final highlight is the Etihad Towers, made famous in Fast & Furious 7. You’ll head up to the observation deck for sweeping panoramic views across the city and the Gulf. It’s an unforgettable way to end the day!

With THOUSANDS of glowing five-star reviews and a reputation for hitting all the major sights without any stress, this tour is hands-down the best way to experience Abu Dhabi all in one go!

Dinner – Time Out Market, Downtown Dubai

Daniel-enjoys-a-glass-of-wine-during-dinner-in-Dubai
It’s the perfect spot for a glass of wine, or two!
Bailey-eats-pizza-in-Dubai
There are tons of food options

After returning from Abu Dhabi and freshening up at your hotel, make your way to Time Out Market in Downtown Dubai. Located inside Souk Al Bahar, directly across from the Dubai Mall fountains, this relaxed food hall is the perfect choice after a long day of sightseeing.

What makes it so convenient is the variety—over a dozen vendors serve up everything from Middle Eastern specialties and Asian fusion to gourmet burgers and desserts. With both indoor seating and a terrace overlooking the fountains, it’s an easy, no-fuss option that still feels lively and fun.

Plan to spend around 1.5 hours here, which gives you enough time to browse, grab your favorite dishes, and enjoy the view. If your hotel is centrally located, it’s just a 15–20 minute taxi ride away, making it a simple and satisfying dinner stop after a long day.

Evening – Relax with a drink at a rooftop bar

The lounge and view at Atmosphere Burj Khalifa
Photo Credit: Atmosphere Burj Khalifa

After dinner, wind down with a nightcap and some of Dubai’s best views. You don’t need to go far—two of the city’s top rooftop spots are right in Downtown. For a bucket-list experience, head up to Atmosphere Burj Khalifa on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa. Sipping a glass of wine or a mocktail while looking out over the glittering skyline from the world’s tallest building is a moment you won’t forget.

If you’d prefer something a little more laid-back, Treehouse at Taj Dubai offers a chic open-air terrace with panoramic views of Downtown and the Burj Khalifa itself. The atmosphere is stylish yet relaxed, making it a great place to reflect on your day trip to Abu Dhabi before heading back to your hotel.

Related Read: If you find yourself with extra time, see our top things to do in Dubai blog for even more epic activities!

Day 3

Breakfast – Common Grounds – DIFC

A breakfast spread at Common Grounds Dubai
Photo Credit: Common Grounds
A smoothie bowl at Common Grounds Dubai
Photo Credit: Common Grounds

Start today at Common Grounds in DIFC, a sleek café that’s as popular for its excellent coffee as it is for its fresh, healthy menu. It’s a great spot to ease into the morning with dishes like shakshuka, avocado toast, or smoothie bowls—light yet satisfying options that will keep you fueled for exploring.

The café opens at 8 am, and you don’t need an early start. Plan to spend about 45 minutes here enjoying breakfast at a relaxed pace. A taxi from most central hotels takes just 10–15 minutes, and from Common Grounds it’s only a quick 5-minute taxi or 9-minute walk to your next stop—the Museum of the Future.

Morning – Be inspired at the Museum of the Future

The outside of the Museum of the Future in Dubai, UAE
The outside is so cool!
Dubai Museum of the Future entrance
Even the entrance way feels futuristic

From Common Grounds, it’s just a short ride or walk to the Museum of the Future, one of Dubai’s most eye-catching landmarks. The building itself is a work of art—a giant torus-shaped structure covered in Arabic calligraphy that symbolizes innovation and progress. Inside, you’ll step into a series of futuristic exhibitions that feel more like immersive experiences than static displays. 

Themes range from space exploration and AI technology to sustainability, climate solutions, and human wellness, giving you a glimpse of what life could look like decades from now. Allow around two hours to explore at a comfortable pace. There’s plenty of seating if you want to pause between exhibits, and the flow makes it easy to absorb everything without feeling rushed. 

Entry begins at 9:30 am, and tickets start at 159 AED per person (about $43 USD). Since it’s one of Dubai’s most popular attractions, it’s best to book them ahead of time here. Aim to wrap up around midday, leaving you time to continue your day refreshed and inspired.

Lunch – The Guild

Bailey-enjoys-a-cocktail-while-out-in-Dubai
It’s 5 o’clock somewhere…
Mussels for lunch at The Guild in Dubai
Photo Credit: The Guild

After your morning at the Museum of the Future, head over to The Guild, one of Dubai’s most stylish dining spaces. With its Art Deco interiors and upscale brasserie feel, it’s a restaurant that seamlessly blends elegance with a lively atmosphere, making it a memorable spot for lunch.

The menu is as impressive as the setting, with options ranging from wood-fired meats and fresh seafood to lighter salads and handmade pasta. The restaurant is also known for its attentive service, so whether you want something hearty or a lighter mid-day meal, you’ll be well taken care of.

Plan to spend about 1–1.25 hours here before continuing your afternoon. It’s only a 10-minute taxi ride from the Museum of the Future, so you’ll arrive right on time to relax and enjoy your meal in style.

Afternoon/evening – Experience the magic of the Red Dunes

An ATV in the desert on a tour from Dubai
Riding ATVs through the desert was a blast!
OceanAir Travels a man dances at night on a tour from Dubai
The performances were unlike anything I have ever seen! Photo credit: OceanAir Travels

If you do only one thing in Dubai, make it this desert safari. It’s an experience travelers rave about, and for good reason—it combines adrenaline, culture, and some of the most unforgettable scenery you’ll find anywhere.

After lunch, head back to your hotel by around 2 pm to freshen up before pickup. We recommend the 3 pm option, which gives you time to recharge after the morning’s sightseeing while still packing in a full afternoon and evening out in the dunes.

The adventure begins with an adrenaline-rushing ATV ride across the red Lahbab desert. Racing over the sand feels otherworldly, like driving on Mars, and if you’re up for it, you can also try sandboarding down the steep dunes. 

Once the action slows, you’ll make your way to the elegant Al Khayma desert camp, where coffee and sweet dates welcome you. Here, the pace shifts with a camel ride, giving you a traditional glimpse of desert life.

As the sun sets, the camp comes alive with a barbecue buffet of kebabs, koftas, and more, followed by mesmerizing live entertainment that includes dance and fire shows. The evening winds down under a blanket of stars, the quiet of the desert offering a peaceful close to an action-packed day.

This desert safari isn’t just a popular tour—with more than 20,000 five-star reviews—it’s an experience that travelers call the highlight of their entire trip. From heart-pounding dune rides to peaceful stargazing, it captures everything that makes Dubai extraordinary. 

Why We Book Tours with Viator

Viator is a trusted online booking system for tours around the world! We almost always book our tours using Viator for a couple of reasons:

  • Free cancellation on most tours – Most of the tours on Viator allow you to cancel and get a full refund up to 24 hours in advance. This is handy in case plans change, or if booking an outdoor activity, the weather forecast is looking grim.
  • Reserve now and pay later – You can secure your spot on some of the most popular tours well in advance and not pay until closer to the day of the tour.
  • Lowest price guarantee – If you happen to find the same tour at a lower price elsewhere, Viator will refund you the price difference.
  • Pay in your chosen currency – Avoid costly international transaction fees by choosing to pay in your home currency.
  • Peace of mind – When booking with tour operators you find in person on the street or in small booking offices, you are often promised one thing and given another. This online platform holds tour operators accountable with a written description of inclusions as well as the opportunity for customers to leave reviews.

Check out the Viator website here! Or, for more info, read our detailed review about Viator here.

Day 4

Breakfast – Risen Café and Artisanal Bakery

Avocado-toast-eaten-for-breakfast-in-Dubai
Avocado toast is my go-to!

Start day four with a slower pace at Risen Café and Artisanal Bakery, a stylish neighborhood spot known for its freshly baked pastries, artisanal breads, and excellent coffee. The menu covers everything from buttery croissants to shakshuka and avocado toast, making it a great place to recharge after yesterday’s desert adventure.

The café opens at 7 am, but after a late night, you can enjoy a bit of a lie-in and aim to arrive around 9 am (or earlier if you’d like time for a walk around the marina). Plan to spend about an hour here at a comfortable pace. From most central hotels, it’s a 20–25 minute taxi ride, and once finished, you’ll be just a short trip away from the yacht check-in point for your next experience.

Late morning/lunch – Cruise Dubai’s skyline on a luxury yacht

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-on-a-boat-cruise in Dubai
We love cruises!
xclusive yachts Burj Al Arab seen on a cruise from Dubai
We saw lots of cool things like the Burj Al Arab. Photo credit: xclusive yachts

After breakfast, make your way to Dubai Marina for this luxury yacht cruise—one of the most stylish ways to experience the city. It’s only about a 15-minute walk from Risen Café, so it’s worth taking your time and enjoying a leisurely stroll around the marina before boarding.

The 11:30 am BBQ lunch option is a great choice, lasting around two hours and finishing up by 1:30 pm. This way, lunch is taken care of onboard, leaving your afternoon wide open. Once you step aboard the sleek, modern yacht, you’ll be greeted by a welcoming crew and shown to spacious seating areas. There’s a sun deck if you want to soak up the rays and shaded sections if you prefer to relax in comfort.

As the yacht glides out into the Persian Gulf, you’ll enjoy incredible views of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks. Keep your camera ready for Atlantis The Palm, Burj Al Arab, and the city’s glittering skyline, with the Burj Khalifa standing tall in the distance.

During the cruise, a barbecue lunch is served, featuring grilled meats, fresh salads, and tasty sides. It’s a satisfying meal with the bonus of being served right on the water. For those who want to indulge a little more, there’s also the option to upgrade to an unlimited drinks package.

This yacht cruise blends relaxation, sightseeing, and dining into one seamless experience. It’s an unforgettable way to see Dubai from a whole new perspective!

Afternoon – Spend it your way

Aerial view of Palm Island in Dubai
Aerial view of Palm Island
Interior of Souk Madinat Jumeirah in Dubai
Inside the Souk Madinat Jumeirah

With the yacht cruise wrapping up by around 1:30–2 pm, you’ve got the afternoon free to choose your own adventure. Here are a few great options, depending on your mood:

  • See The View at The Palm – Head up to the 52nd floor of Palm Tower for sweeping 360-degree vistas across Dubai. From here, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of Palm Jumeirah’s unique design, with Dubai Marina and the skyline in the distance. Allow about 1.5 hours for photos, soaking in the views, and a short break at the on-site café.
  • Explore Souk Madinat Jumeirah This traditional-style souk blends boutique shops, pretty canals, and some of the best Burj Al Arab views in Dubai. It’s flat and easy to stroll, with plenty of terrace cafés where you can pause for a juice or coffee. The atmosphere makes it a relaxing way to spend an afternoon while still feeling immersed in Dubai’s culture.
  • Relax with a spa treatment – Treat yourself to a massage at Dreamworks Spa, one of Dubai’s most popular mid-range spa chains. Known for excellent Balinese and Thai treatments at fair prices, it’s a great way to recharge after a few busy days. A taxi from Palm Tower to their Marina branch takes around 15 minutes, and it’s also close to your dinner spot later.

Dinner – Fish Beach Taverna

After your afternoon exploring or unwinding, head to Fish Beach Taverna, a chic beachfront restaurant that feels like a little slice of the Mediterranean in Dubai. Styled in crisp white and blue with fairy lights twinkling above the outdoor tables, it’s one of the city’s most atmospheric dinner spots. The focus here is on fresh seafood and shared mezze, with highlights like grilled sea bream, calamari, and classic Mediterranean dips.

Dinner typically takes about 1.5 hours, giving you time to relax and enjoy the seaside setting before moving on. A taxi from Palm Tower to Fish Beach Taverna takes around 10 minutes, and since this is a very popular spot, making a reservation online here is highly recommended.

Evening – Unwind with a stroll along Marina Walk

Modern and developed Dubai Marina area
Great place for a stroll

After dinner, end the day with a gentle stroll along the Dubai Marina Walk. This flat, easy promenade lines the water and is perfect for walking off your meal at a leisurely pace. You’ll find gelato shops and cafés along the way, or you can simply grab a bench and take in views of the yachts and the illuminated skyline.

It’s a relaxed, low-key way to round out a busy day of sightseeing. When you’re ready, it’s a quick 20–25 minute taxi ride back to your hotel, where you can rest up for tomorrow’s adventures.

Day 5

Breakfast – Harrie’s Pancakes Nakheel Mall

Bailey-drinks-coffee-in-Dubai
The perfect way to start the day
Enjoying a crepe for breakfast at Harrie's Pancakes
Photo Credit: Harrie’s Pancakes

Start your last day in Dubai with a hearty breakfast at Harrie’s Pancakes, a cozy South African café tucked inside Nakheel Mall on Palm Jumeirah. Known for its sweet and savory creations, the menu ranges from indulgent banana-caramel stacks to satisfying bacon-and-egg rolls, making it a fun spot no matter what you’re craving.

Plan to spend around 45 minutes here, giving you time to enjoy your meal without rushing. A taxi from most central hotels takes 20–25 minutes, and the location inside Nakheel Mall makes it especially convenient, since you’ll be perfectly placed to continue on to Atlantis right after breakfast.

Morning/afternoon – Splash, slide, and explore at Atlantis

Aquarium in Atlantis Waterpark in Dubai
So much fun
Atlantis waterpark in Dubai
There are definitely some rides that will get your adrenaline pumping

After breakfast, it’s time for some serious fun at this world-renowned waterpark at Atlantis The Palm. Aquaventure Waterpark is just a quick 10-minute taxi ride from Nakheel Mall and is packed with rides, slides, and attractions that make it a must-do whether you’re traveling with family or just young at heart.

The park opens at 9 am, and you’ll want to plan on spending the better part of the day here (around 6 hours) with breaks for shade and refreshments. With so much to do, you’ll never run out of options! 

Thrill-seekers will love rides like Aquaconda, the world’s largest waterslide, where up to six people can ride together, or Poseidon’s Revenge, a near-vertical drop that’s not for the faint of heart.

For younger visitors, Splasher’s Island is a dedicated play area with smaller slides and water features designed just for kids. But one of the park’s standout experiences is the Shark Attack ride, where you float through a clear tunnel inside an underwater lagoon surrounded by sharks. It’s a wild mix of fun and adrenaline!

Currently, the bundled aquarium option isn’t available online, but you can arrange it directly at the park if it’s offered during your visit. However you spend your time, Aquaventure promises a day of laughter, thrills, and unforgettable memories in sunny Dubai.

Dinner – Kaleidoscope

After a full day at Aquaventure Waterpark, keep things simple by dining right inside Atlantis at Kaleidoscope. This casual buffet restaurant offers a huge spread of international dishes, making it a convenient and satisfying choice after hours of fun in the sun. You’ll find everything from Middle Eastern mezze and Indian curries to Italian pastas and fresh salads, so there’s something for every craving.

Dinner here usually takes about 1–1.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to refuel without feeling rushed. And since it’s located within the same resort, there’s no need to hop in a taxi just yet—you can simply walk over from the waterpark, enjoy a relaxed meal, and get ready for the evening’s big finale.

Evening – Catch a show at La Perle by Dragone

A performer on stage at the La Perle DXB show in Dubai
Photo Credit: La Perle DXB
Performers take a picture together after the La Perle DXB show
Photo Credit: La Perle DXB

Cap off your Dubai trip with a night of jaw-dropping entertainment at La Perle by Dragone, the city’s most famous live performance. Often compared to Cirque du Soleil, this spectacular acrobatic water show takes place in a purpose-built theatre designed to dazzle from every angle. It’s only about a 25-minute taxi ride from Atlantis, and with showtimes at 6:30 pm or 9 pm, it fits seamlessly as the final highlight of your itinerary.

The 90-minute show blends aerial feats, aquatic stunts, dance, and special effects on a stage that literally floods with water, allowing for high dives and breathtaking sequences unlike anything else in Dubai. Over 65 world-class performers bring the production to life, creating an atmosphere that feels immersive, emotional, and completely unforgettable. The visuals, lighting, and music carry a storytelling quality that rivals the very best shows in Las Vegas.

Guests can choose from a range of ticket options like bronze, silver, and gold for excellent auditorium seating, or upgrades to platinum and VIP for extras like lounge access, canapés, drinks, and even merchandise vouchers. Guests consistently rave about the experience, calling it “phenomenal,” “absolutely spectacular,” and “a must-see while in Dubai.” 

Ending your trip with La Perle feels fitting. It’s a grand finale of artistry, talent, and pure spectacle, leaving you with a lasting memory of Dubai at its most magical!

Where to Stay in Dubai

Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites in Dubai
Photo credit: Dubai Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites

It can be hard to find the perfect place to stay in a city like Dubai – there are almost too many good options! To help narrow it down, I’ve picked out three excellent hotels that are in fantastic locations. You can choose between a luxury, mid-range, or budget option depending on your travel budget, but be sure to book ahead of time – the good spots book up quickly!

Luxury – $$$

Dubai Marriott Harbor Hotel and Suites is my top pick for a luxury stay. The Marriott chain always provides top service, luxurious rooms, and amenities for a relaxing vacation. The location is fantastic, just off of Dubai Harbor, so you have incredible views and are in the heart of the action. You can get suite-style or standard hotel rooms, some with balconies and harbor views or views of the city!

Prices start around $250 USD per night and go up. Check availability and book this stay on Booking.com.

Mid-range – $$

Rove La Mer Beach is a little outside of the city center, but right on the beach and in the fun neighborhood of La Mer. The rooms are rather simple and comfortable, perfect if you plan on being out and exploring a lot! The hotel has a popular outdoor pool and a lovely beachfront terrace with a restaurant. Did I mention you have access to a private beach?

Rooms start at $150 USD per night, and you can book this hotel on Booking.com.

Budget – $

Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai may be the cheapest option on this list, but it’s actually my top pick! It’s located in the heritage district, Al Seef, and the decor of the hotel looks like a traditional Arabian home, with modern luxuries. Rooms range from twin to king rooms, and you can enjoy the outdoor pool, traditional-style restaurant, and Arabic coffee service upon check-in. 

Prices range from $50 to $130 USD. Check availability and book this hotel on Booking.com.

For more options, check out all of the hotels in Dubai here.

Related Read: If you’re looking for specific areas and more hotel options, see our full guide on Where to Stay in Dubai – it covers just that!

Don’t Forget Travel Insurance!

If you’re looking to save money on travel insurance, we currently use and recommend SafetyWing. We’ve been using their coverage since 2018 and they’ve had our backs when we needed emergency flights and got sick overseas.

SafetyWing is one of the cheapest providers out there and covers everything from medical costs to lost luggage, travel delays, and emergency flights. A huge difference we’ve found between them and other companies is that they let you take out a policy AFTER leaving your home country. We’ve also found it handy that it’s a monthly payment rather than a lump sum, and you can get a refund for unused time.

SafetyWing has helped us out in some scary situations before and their affordable coverage has given us peace of mind. You can read our honest review of SafetyWing for all the pros and cons.

Book your travel insurance with SafetyWing here!

Thanks for reading!

Daniel-and-Bailey-take-a-selfie-on-a-cruise in Dubai
Thanks for reading!

Five days in Dubai is the perfect amount of time to marvel at its modern wonders and experience more of its traditional culture. This is the same itinerary we followed during our visit, and we found it to be an excellent balance of exploration and relaxation. Best of all, it highlights Dubai’s top sights!

Check out the rest of our Middle East blogs for more travel tips and inspiration! As lifelong travelers, we’ve hit some unforgettable spots and have cultivated a wide array of resources to help you plan a memorable vacation, no matter where you end up going. Here are a few related blogs to get you started – cheers!

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