Are you looking for the perfect itinerary for 4 days in Dubai for first-timers? Then you have come to the right place!
There’s a unique liveliness to Dubai that you will find nowhere else in the Middle East. This Arabian metropolis is extreme, elaborate, revitalising and most of all, dynamic. It has something to offer to any preference.
If you’re looking to put together an ideal 4 day Dubai itinerary, this extensive guide will have this task cut out for you. It includes all of Dubai’s highlights, from the Burj Al Arab to the Burj Khalifa and even Abu Dhabi’s Grand Mosque.
But, just prior to going into this travel program in detail, have a quick look at the following useful information, along with some time-saving tips that will help you make your Dubai vacation both easier and smoother.
This 4-day Dubai itinerary is a guest post by Neha, founder of Dubai Wikia, a comprehensive travel guide to Dubai. Neha is a post-graduate in Mass Communications who loves to write about her travel experiences. In her spare time, she loves listening to music and planning her next travel adventures.
4 day Dubai itinerary: What you need to know before visiting Dubai
Best time to visit Dubai
Winter (November to March)
Dubai witnesses a maximum influx of tourists during the winter months.
With a pleasantly cool climate, the winter is also the time of the year when you will get to enjoy Dubai’s many outdoor activities (sky diving, water sports, etc.) and some exciting events. These events include the popular Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF), Christmas and New Year’s Eve, and Dubai Rugby Sevens to name a few.
Apart from this, there are also many seasonal attractions like Dubai Miracle Garden, Dubai Garden Glow, etc.
However, as winter is the peak season, the prices will be exceedingly high for everything from accommodation to sightseeing. So make sure that you pre-plan your Dubai holiday to get the best deals.
Check out my post about the cost of travel in Dubai to have a better idea of what to expect when it comes to expenses.
Summer (May to August)
Alternatively, if you wish to tremendously cut down on your Dubai vacation, visit here during the summer months. This is the time of the year when you will be able to save on accommodation, airline tickets and sightseeing prices.
Despite the blistering heat, the air-conditioned hotels, malls and other leisure attractions like Ski Dubai and Dubai Ice Rink will assure you of an enjoyable holiday during this time of the year.
I visited Dubai in the Summer and, although it was hot outside, there was AC nearly everywhere in this city.
Dubai facts that you should know
Here are some important things you should know before visiting Dubai.
- Dubai is an Islamic destination and this is greatly reflected in its charming culture and traditions. Make sure to always remain respectful towards the local customs.
- Avoid eating or drinking in public during Ramadan.
- Don’t smoke or drink in public as this may lead to a fine and it could even land you in jail.
- Be careful while taking pictures of important government structures and locals, especially Emirati women.
- Dubai is a land of extravagant sights. You will get to see the world’s tallest building, a one-of-a-kind man-made island, the world’s only seven-star hotel and the busiest international airport, among many other things.
- Dubai is not the UAE’s capital, Abu Dhabi is. However, Dubai is certainly the most popular of all seven emirates in the country.
Top tips for your Dubai holiday
- Planning is key in order to craft a perfect holiday in Dubai. As discussed earlier, book your accommodation, airline tickets and entry tickets to important landmarks in advance.
- It is equally vital to know your visa requirements, particularly if you’re not qualifying for a visa exemption or a visa on arrival.
- If you’re on a strict budget, Dubai’s public transport system offers the most affordable options to get around in the city.
- Purchase a NOL Smart Card that you can use to make payments for all of Dubai’s public transport. This includes the metro, taxis, buses, trams, and ferries.
- With its red and green lines, Dubai’s Metro is the swiftest and cheapest of all transport means in Dubai. It is fully automated and driverless.
- There are also private transfers available. But make sure to book one through a reliable service provider.
- You can choose private transfers with or without a driver. An international driving license is a must if you’re planning to drive in the city yourself.
- When it comes to what to wear, it is recommended to opt for modest, loose-fitting and comfortable clothing.
- Moreover, pack the right clothes depending on when you’re planning to visit Dubai. For instance, you will need a jacket and warm clothes if you’re visiting the city during the winter months.
- No matter if it is a winter or a summer trip, make sure to carry a shawl (it is surprisingly cold inside malls and other indoor attractions). Other essentials such as sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, etc. are also a must due to the intense year-round sunlight.
Now let’s get started with our 4-day Dubai itinerary!
4-Day Dubai Itinerary
Day 1: Top attractions of old and new Dubai
Start your day with a healthy breakfast, as you will need loads of energy to cover the vast array of Dubai sights and experiences covered in today’s travel program.
Morning (Al Fahidi, Dubai Creek and Souks)
Photo: DubaiWikia
Start your day by heading to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (which is also known as Al Bastakiya). This is the well-preserved old part of Dubai that lets you peek into the region’s ancient lifestyle.
Be prepared to get lost in time as you make your way through its quaint alleys and walk past the age-old dwellings topped by wooden wind towers or traditional air-conditioners. Most of these houses are now converted into museums, art galleries or cafes.
If you’re not able to visit everything, make sure to check out the Dubai Museum. This museum is located inside the Al Fahidi Fort, which is the city’s oldest fort. It will give you an interesting insight into Dubai’s modest past and entry tickets only cost AED 3.
After this, you can walk up to Dubai Creek, another historical landmark in the city. This creek divides the city into the areas of Bur Dubai and Deira. One of the nicest activities to do here is taking a ride on an abra, which is a motorised boat. This costs just AED 1.
As you’re on the Bur Dubai side now, the ride will lead you to the Deira souks. For those who don’t know, souks are traditional Arabian markets. These souks’ streets are packed with shops and include Gold Souks with hundreds of shops selling golden ornaments.
The good news is that haggling is allowed here, so be prepared to shop for some unique souvenirs at exceptionally cheap rates. You could easily spend a day here, but as you have to cover a lot today, limit your sightseeing to two to three hours.
Afternoon (lunch and Dubai Frame)
The region around the Deira Souks is known for its staggering repertoire of dining options, so it is easy to pick a spot for lunch.
Alternatively, with street food delights such as shawarma wraps, falafels, etc. you could ditch the lavish dining venues and have lunch on the go instead.
After lunch, take the metro or a taxi to visit the Dubai Frame inside Zabeel Park. Modelled like a massive picture frame, the Dubai Frame is the largest of its kind. It is mainly visited for its distinct look, galleries and sky deck with a glass bridge. The greatest plus is that you will be able to see both old and new Dubai from this viewpoint.
Evening (Downtown Dubai, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain Show)
Get ready to experience the pinnacle of Dubai’s modernity at Downtown Dubai!
This part of the city holds some of the most prestigious landmarks. Take pictures of the Burj Khalifa, which is the world’s tallest building and one of the most famous landmarks in Asia. If you’re up for it, head to its observation deck on the 124th or 148th floor on a swift elevator ride.
After this, drop into the biggest mall ever with over 1,200 outlets and tons of leisure attractions. The Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, KidZania, Dubai Ice Rink and VR Park are just a few of them.
Step out to discover the stunning Souk Al Bahar and most importantly, enjoy the Dubai Fountain Show, where music, water, and light are beautifully synchronised to create an unmatched spectacle.
Make sure to book your tickets for the Burj Khalifa in advance to avoid queues.
Day 2: Ski Dubai And Desert Safari
Make the second day of your 4 day Dubai itinerary a memorable one with some cool and relaxing experiences.
Morning (Ski Dubai)
Located inside the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai is one of Dubai’s coolest and most unique attractions.
It allows you to enjoy an array of snow activities throughout the year thanks to its massive snow park, slopes of varying levels, exciting rides and of course, its adorable residents (including penguins).
You can look forward to trying all your favourite winter activities here, from skiing and snowboarding to tobogganing.
Afternoon (Free Time)
You can choose to utilise the time until your desert safari pick-up in the evening for shopping, exploring Dubai’s retail/dining scene or simply relaxing in your room.
Evening (Desert Safari)
As for the Dubai desert safari, it will offer you a respite from Dubai’s glamorous side.
Speak to your service provider to make it heart-pounding with dune bashing, camel rides and sand-boarding or as laid-back as possible with Bedouin-inspired activities, traditional entertainment and a classic dinner amidst desert sands.
Whichever package you choose, you will find yourself enveloped by the untouched dunes as well as the blissful quietude and seclusion on your desert safari.
Day 3: Abu Dhabi sightseeing
Today, take a break from Dubai’s sights and venture out to Abu Dhabi, which is less than two hours away from Dubai. Abu Dhabi is the UAE’s largest city and also the country’s beautiful capital.
You can discover this city on your own or pre-book a full-day sightseeing tour through a reliable tour operator.
Morning (Abu Dhabi sightseeing)
Whether it is a guided excursion or not, make sure to check out Abu Dhabi’s most iconic landmark, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This colossal place of worship is the largest of its kind in the UAE and will blow you away with its sheer grandeur and all-white architecture.
Also, visit the Heritage Village for a dose of genuine Emirati culture and heritage. And don’t forget to make a stop at the opulent Emirates Palace Hotel for some wonderful clicks.
Afternoon (Yas Island)
Yas Island is full of leisure and entertainment attractions. Depending on your preference, you can get started at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world’s first Ferrari theme park or visit Yas Water World.
If this isn’t enough, head to Warner Bros Abu Dhabi or the brand-new CLYMB Abu Dhabi, which has the world’s tallest climbing wall and the world’s widest skydiving chamber.
Apart from these, this island is home to Yas Marina Circuit, which hosts the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix.
Evening (Corniche)
Before you leave Abu Dhabi, make a stop at its renowned Corniche or the waterfront promenade. This is one of the city’s most favoured hang-outs, with facilities and experiences suitable for all age groups.
Day 4: Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab And Dhow Cruise At Dubai Marina
The palm-tree-like island, along with the Burj Al Arab make for one of Dubai’s most celebrated sights. No visit to the city is complete without catching a glimpse of them.
So on the last day of this 4 day Dubai itinerary, we will do some sightseeing of Dubai’s most astonishing sights and experiences.
Morning (water sports/heart-racing activities)
If you’re feeling adventurous or want to add more fun and thrill to your Dubai holiday, sign up for an all-inclusive water sports package with activities like jet skiing, Flyboarding a banana boat ride, etc.
You can also go on a skydiving session, which not only promises you the adventure of a lifetime but also lets you take in Palm Jumeirah in its true splendour.
Afternoon (sightseeing)
After lunch at one of the region’s dining venues (there are both lavish and budget options available), set out to take in the island’s top attractions.
See the imposing Atlantis and The Palm, go to some of the leisure attractions (such as Aquaventure Water and Lost Chamber Aquarium), and take a monorail ride. The last one will introduce you to the classy, high-rise structures that dot the island.
Evening (Burj Al Arab and dinner cruise at Dubai Marina)
Following this, visit the sail-shaped Burj Al Arab. Those who wish to experience its regal interiors can book an afternoon tea session in one of its restaurants.
Continue to Madinat Jumeirah and then to Jumeirah Beach, the region’s most popular public beach.
Culminate your Dubai holiday with a two-hour dinner cruise along Dubai Marina in a traditional wooden dhow. Immerse yourself in the stunning city skyline as you savour great food and enjoy amazing entertainment like the Tanura show on board.
Where to stay in Dubai
There’s an abundance of places to stay in Dubai, from basic accommodation to luxury resorts. You will find my top recommendations below.
- A Seef Heritage Hotel (⭐ 8.2/10): This beautifully decorated hotel has all the facilities you will need. There’s an onsite restaurant and it overlooks Dubai Creek. If you’re looking for a place to stay in Emirati style, you will love A Seef Heritage Hotel!
- Damac Maison Mall Street (⭐ 8.8/10): If you would like to stay near the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, Damac Maison is the place for you. This place offers apartment-like stays and some of them have a balcony overlooking the Burj Khalifa.
- Address Dubai Marina (⭐ 9.5/10): This one is for you if you would like to indulge yourself in Dubai luxury. Address Dubai Marina has elegant rooms, an infinity pool and a spectacular view of the Dubai Marina. It is good to know that some rooms also have a view of the Burj Khalifa.
There are also plenty of family-friendly places to stay in Dubai. Check out this post featuring the best ones if you’re travelling with family.
4-Day Dubai Itinerary: Final thoughts
As we wrap up, we hope that this Dubai itinerary will be helpful for you to craft your upcoming 4 day Dubai holiday.
The best thing is that this 96-hour travel guide is ideal for every season, whether you’re travelling to Dubai in the summer or during the winter months.
Do you have more than 4 days to spare in Dubai? Check out this 7-day Dubai itinerary next.
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2 comments
I liked the photographs of Palm Jumeirah and The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque very much. They look as stunning as they actually are. Dubai is anybody’s favorite holiday destination and I feel lucky to have visited this pearl city of the UAE not just once but twice. You have provided some valuable tips in the blog by informing the best time to visit, facts about Dubai and the four-day itinerary is absolutely worth to follow.
I loved the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque too, it’s so beautiful! Thank you for the lovely comment, all credit goes to Neha for this one. 😉