24 hours in Dubai: a Tourist's itinerary

You got out of DXB airport and are about to be your classic, yet out-of-the-box, Dubai tourist for a day-to-night experience. From the 101 to "expert" level, welcome to 24 hours in Dubai!

From the airport to the Palm, we have mapped out for you precious tourists in Dubai, a full-rounded, exciting, rich itinerary covering as many grounds as one can in one day for an interesting hop in hop out of Dubai adventure. From pre-breakfast to the after-hours, and everything in between- the travel duration from location A to location B per commute choice, where to eat, shop & party! Let's do this Dubai!

Shop for souvenirs at the Grand Souk in Bur Dubai

Travel time: 18 mins by car/taxi, 32 mins through public transport

So you've left the airport and are heading for breakfast but on your way there is a cultural and historical gem, nestled in Bur Dubai, that you must make a pitstop at, it's the "Old Dubai Souk", this traditional market which exudes old-world charm. Roam the alleys and find stores and traders selling raw silk, wool, cashmere, perfumes, spices, and dry fruits, we are absolutely certain that you'll find it hard to leave empty-handed and keep in mind to barter for a good deal!

Breakfast at XVA Café

Travel time: 9 mins by car/taxi, 17 mins walking from the souk

Just a few minutes later you find yourself exploring the charming Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood in Old Dubai and are in need of a breakfast spot! All that shopping must have gotten you pretty hungry and now it's time to eat. This quaint café nestled within the retro XVA Art Hotel is a delightful choice. As you wander through the area's maze-like alleyways, this café offers a unique and artistic escape. The walls inside are adorned with striking art, and the presence of a tree in the courtyard creates a serene ambiance perfect for relaxing. Breakfast is served as early as 7AM till 12PM so you're probably there just in time to enjoy the Eggs your way/Crepe/Muesli, Foul beans, fresh fruits, labneh, vegetables samosas, rice pudding, syrup, toast/paratha bread, freshly squeezed orange juice & coffee/tea! (04) 353 5383 is the contact number in case you need it!

Visit Dubai Frame - On the way to the coffee spot!

Travel time: 17 mins by car/taxi, 34 mins through public transport

You've seen it everywhere on the socials, on and off Dubai-related pages, and now it's time to let that breakfeast sit in nicely at The Dubai Frame- one of the city’s most famous attractions for visitors and residents alike. Much like the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab's iconic structures, the building's landmark location in Zabeel Park provides panoramic views of the city. To the North side you get to view the historic side of Dubai while the South provides the modern cityscape. Alongside these breathtaking views, you will be experiencing the past, present and future of Dubai from the ground to the sky. Animations and holographic effects along with traditional music and aromatic scents will transport you back in time and of course you won’t miss the Future Zone, where an immersive time tunnel reveals what Dubai is expected to look like in 50 years! +971 800 900 is the number you can use for ticketing information.

Coffee at Linosa Café

Travel time: 9 mins by car/taxi, 1 hour through public transport

Craving a Matcha Latté in Dubai? In between The Frame and your next destination, you'll be taking in Italian Isle-like vibes at Linosa Café in Al Jaddaf, as the name indicates the Italian island Linosa! This coffee shop is known to provide some of the best specialty coffee selections in Dubai; their top 3 most-recommended best-sellers are the Cappuccino, Hot Spanish Latté & of course Matcha Latté. Enjoy! Linosa Café is open from 8AM till midnight and can be reached on (04) 354 0072

Stroll through City Walk Dubai

Travel time is 13 mins by car/taxi, 1 hour 7 mins through public transport

Live the city pulse at Dubai's premier lifestyle destination! Welcome to City Walk, an urban precint in Al Wasl Community of Dubai where you will enjoy a vibrant hub of retail, dining, entertainment, hospitality, wellness and automotive. Here you will immerse yourself in a unique community experience where sophistication meets urban living. You can shop your vibe with top fashion, beauty and wellness brands in a vibrant indoor-outdoor space. This is what they call Retail Therapy and we are all about it! At City Walk Dubai you will explore over 60 unique international shops with fashion-forward styles. Activewear, beauty, footwear, accessories, home and automotive choices that exude elegance and comfort. Sounds pretty exciting and we've got you covered with 3 different dining options there for lunchtime!

Lunch at City Walk

Gourmet City Walk

Travel time: 2 mins by car/taxi, 5 mins through public transport, 6 mins walking

At Gourmet, you'll find them committed to their motto; "Dine by Design," meticulously curating each menu item to tantalize both the eyes and the taste buds! Their contemporary, modern décor sets the stage for an extraordinary dining experience that transcends borders and cuisines. Indulge in their diverse menu, offering something for everyone – from juicy burgers to exciting pizzas, fresh salads to decadent desserts. Each dish is crafted with flair and passion, ensuring a culinary journey like no other. Working up an appetite are we? Let's go! Reach them on (04) 450 4412

The Daily City Walk

Travel time: 2 mins by car/taxi, 8 mins through public transport, 10 mins walking

Regroup and recharge with a tasty refuel at The Daily by Rove City Walk! Delve into tasty eats that double up on flavour without burning a hole in your pocket. Loved by co-workers, Rovers, travellers and Rovesters throughout Dubai, who come for the food but stay for the chill vibes and good times. Savour the speciality coffee, booster drinks and a breakfast buffet to fuel your adventure. Reach them on (04) 561 9999

Obeli City Walk

Travel time: 3 mins by car/taxi, 11 mins through public transport, 13 mins walking

Obeli is an exhilarating new addition to Dubai's dining scene, in the heart of City Walk. This all-day dining destination is poised to be your sanctuary from the fast-paced routine of daily life, where you can indulge in a culinary journey that will awaken your senses. Highlight dishes include Obeli's Signature Shroom (fried portobello mushroom. salsa verde. pulled beef, sautéed peas, poached eggs, hollandaise sauce, chives oil), Potato Pave Caviar, White Mermaid (sea bass, white chocolate sauce, green apple salad, ginger, chili), The Garibas chef’s specialty dish which is a fusion of his Mexican and Lebanese origins (three cuts of beef, two types of cheese, herb mayonnaise with chipotle, caramelised onions, avocado spread, home-made cucumber pickles), Island Crème (pina colada creme brûlée, coconut ball), Date Night (caramelised brioche, date filling, vanilla ice-cream). Bon appétit! Reach them on (04) 887 5561

Dessert at Dubai Mall

A staple in Dubai and one of the most-visited touristic spots worldwide, this one needs no introduction, if you're around Downtown then you are definitely crossing over to THE Dubai Mall where so much is happening but you're here mainly for desserts and some indoor activities! This international shopping/dining/entertainment landmark in the UAE, region and world, is studded with gems of all kinds that you can possibly fathom. Once you step in there, an entire universe of wonders will unfold, and what is Dubai if not an architectural wonder in itself!

Chocomelt Dubai Mall

Travel time: 8 mins by car/taxi, 24 mins through public transport

Are you a chocolate lover? Then this is your haven! Let's melt away in these chocolate delicacies at Chocomelt in Dubai Mall on the second floor! It is a chocolate boutique and coffee shop specialized in desserts, sweet dishes and beverages. Savor the finest Belgian cacao they work with to provide you with a unique experience, it is all so inviting!

Public Dubai Mall

Travel time is 8 mins by car/taxi, 24 mins through public transport

Burj Khalifa Views & Dancing Fountain are your basic must-see, it's the 101 of your Dubai visit and they are obviously worth the hype as residents and locals themselves cannot get enough of these pinnacles in Dubai's Downtown and it's the kind of stuff you keep revisiting to relive as if it's the first time!

Indoor Activities to beat Dubai's heat

You've had your dessert, you've seen the IT views and now you're heading back into the mall for key activities you must-try to best experience Dubai indoor. We have also alternatively tossed in a couple of other fun and exciting activities you can do once you are done with Dubai Mall! Let's explore.

Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo

You're about to experience the magic of Dubai's Underwater Zoo, an aquatic wonderland in the heart of Dubai. Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo are your gateway to the wonders of the ocean! Price: From AED199

Indoor Kartdrome

Travel time: 30 mins by car/taxi, 1 hour 36 mins through public transport

Feeling a little more adventurous? In for an adrenaline rush? Let's hit the World Class Outdoor Circuit - The 1.2km International Circuit at the Dubai Kartdrome which features 17 corners to test a driver’s skills, as well as a tunnel and bridge to add to the excitement. This challenging configuration affords maximum safety to all drivers and spectators and is equipped for night time racing. The state-of-the-art facility hosts Arrive & Drive sessions daily in between kart owners sessions and corporate events. So enjoy the 1.2km circuit with a tunnel and bridge, Flood lit, Viewing Terrance, F&B outlet & Merchandise. Ages 13 years and up. Price: AED125

Madame Tussauds

Travel time is 20 mins by car/taxi, 58 mins through public transport

Now let's get a bit funky with this one! The most hip & happening attraction for famous wax figures in Dubai. It stands as the inaugural branch of the wax-work museum in the Middle East. With over 60 life-like wax figures from various fields of work including musicians, actors, athletes, and world leaders. Price: From AED130

Sundowners at Ginger Moon

Travel time (Indoor Kartdrome) - 22 mins by car/taxi, 1 hour 21 mins through public transport

Travel time (Madame Tussauds) - 13 mins by car/taxi, 39 mins through public transport

Travel time (Dubai Mall) - 20 mins by car/taxi, 52 mins through public transport

It's Happy Hour at Ginger Moon! Let's marvel in a sundowner session like no other during Dubai's golden hour at Ginger Moon in W Dubai, Mina Seyahi. The sunset sessions there are unmissable so you'll be sipping some delicious cocktails under the golden hour for amazing prices and deals such as AED 105 for a Sangria Pitcher, AED 35 for a Sangria Glass and AED 40 for Tequila cocktails! You will feel relaxed after a long day of historical, cultural touring as well as those shopping runs, indoor activities and culinary tastings! Reach them on (04) 350 9998

Shop at the Pointe

Travel time: 13 mins by car/taxi, 54 mins through public transport

The sun is down and you have reached your nighttime plans in Dubai! You came all the way from the airport to The Palm Jumeirah where things are about to get on a whole other level. In case you felt like making an outfit upgrade, The Pointe, Dubai’s iconic waterfront destination, offers unrivaled leisure and upscale shops! With spas and beauty salons available, you get to pamper yourself before the big night out and about at The Palm!

Dinner and Party at The Palm

Ready to party at the iconic manmade Island that is The Palm Jumeirah? Dubai's Palm Jumeirah is the crown jewel of any season & its lights shine brighter than ever, only to beat the heat with the best party locations on the island. We have selected for you a couple of massive choices for your dining and partying pleasure - boasting some of the most expensive and lavish residences and beach clubs in the world, you will feel the luxurious yet laid-back air of the Palm and you will for sure enjoying the after-hours energy around there where some of Dubai's best parties happen!

Aretha

Travel time: 11 mins by car/taxi, 35 mins through public transport

Let's get retro-chic at Aretha! Inspired by the legendary Aretha Franklin and the golden era of music, Aretha, is a sensational live music restaurant, bringing the essence of the sixties and seventies alive through soulful melodies and delectable cuisine. Shows to dazzle you & electrifying performances that pay tribute to the musical legends of Soul & Blues! From its rose gold bar to its central stage, every corner of Aretha exudes the charm and charisma of a bygone era. Open from Wednesday till Sunday from 8PM till 3AM and located at the St Regis Gardens Palm, this place will guarantee a retro-glam blast! Contact them on (04) 880 5242

SUSHISAMBA

Travel time: 12 mins by car/taxi, 51 mins through public transport

This is the celebrated destination in the sky! SushiSamba offers unobstructed, 360-degree panoramic views of the iconic Palm Jumeirah coastline, the Arabian Gulf, Ain Dubai, and the Dubai skyline, as you delve into the delicacies of Japanese, Brazilian & Peruvian cuisines all combined in one place, where the energy rises with resident DJs, Samba Dancers & Bongos live performances for an electrifying ambiance! Open from Monday till Thursday from 12PM till 3 PM, 6 PM till 2 AM/ Fri till 3AM/ Sat 1PM till 3:30 PM, 6 PM till 3 AM & Sun till 2AM, located at The Palm Tower, St. Regis. Reach them on (04) 278 4888