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Habibi, come to Dubai… This city surprised me in every possible way—it’s nothing like what I expected. And honestly, I didn’t expect much more than skyscrapers, skyscrapers, and… more skyscrapers!
I spent 8 packed days exploring Dubai, and came home with way more impressions than just tall buildings.
Although I didn’t visit Dubai on a cruise this time, I picked up plenty of tips that cruisers will find super helpful. If you want to make the most of your time here, a bit of planning really does make all the difference.
Dubai has two cruise terminals, with the main one located in Port Rashid, not far from the historic Old Town and about 13 km (8 miles) from Downtown Dubai and the iconic Burj Khalifa.
If your cruise starts from Dubai, I highly recommend arriving a couple of days early and staying in a hotel in the Downtown area (I’ll tell you all about the one I stayed at in a moment!). That way, you can get a real feel for the city before you sail.
Dubai is massive, and its top attractions are spread out all over the place, so it’s important to plan ahead and prioritize what you want to see. And that’s exactly where I come in!
After spending a week exploring Dubai, I’ve gathered a bunch of handy tips, especially useful if you’ve only got a short amount of time here.
In this post, I’ll give you a quick overview of the cruise ports so you know where your ship will dock, then walk you through the top things to do in Dubai, how to get around, and practical travel tips to help you make the most of your visit.
A Quick Introduction to Dubai
Before you arrive, here are a few things to know about Dubai. It’s one of the seven emirates of the UAE — modern and luxurious, but also rooted in tradition.
The city is safe, clean, and tourist-friendly, though it’s huge, hot for much of the year, and can get pricey.
The best time to visit is from November to March, when the weather is warm and perfect for sightseeing.
Dubai has very different areas: Downtown with the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, Marina and JBR for a beach vibe, and Old Dubai for souks and historic neighborhoods.
For something more atmospheric, visit Madinat Jumeirah, designed like an old Arabian town with canals, shops, and Burj Al Arab views.
There’s no need to wear traditional clothing, but modest dress is appreciated in malls and older parts of the city.
If you plan to visit a mosque or any religious site, women will need to wear a scarf to cover their head, along with clothing that covers arms and legs.
Dubai Cruise Port Overview
Dubai has two cruise terminals: Port Rashid (Mina Rashid) and the newer Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal.
Most cruise lines, especially those homeporting in Dubai like MSC, Costa, and AIDA, dock at Port Rashid, which is located near the historic Old Dubai area and about 13 km (8 miles) from Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa.
It’s a luxurious, well-equipped port with multiple terminals, including one of the world’s largest. You can check out Port Rashid’s official webpage for more details on the terminals and facilities.
Some ships may also dock at Dubai Harbour Cruise Terminal, the city’s newer cruise port located in the Dubai Marina area. While most cruises still use Port Rashid, some ships may dock here, especially when there’s high traffic at the main port.
It’s conveniently close to popular attractions like The Palm Jumeirah, Ain Dubai, and Marina Walk, which is a great starting point for exploring the modern side of the city.
Though not yet widely used for homeporting, Dubai Harbour is becoming more active, particularly for luxury cruise lines and Marina-based itineraries.
Useful tip: It’s good to check your cruise documents in advance so you know where you’ll be docking, as the two ports are about 30-35 minutes apart by car.
🎥 I also have a full Dubai Travel Guide video with insider tips, port info, and top things to do — check it out!
Getting Around Dubai
Getting around in Dubai is pretty easy and straightforward, with several convenient transportation options.
The Dubai Metro is a clean, efficient, and affordable way to navigate the city.
It features two main lines: the Red Line, which runs along Sheikh Zayed Road connecting key areas like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, and the airport, and the Green Line, serving historic districts such as Deira and Bur Dubai.
Fares are based on zones, and for occasional travelers, the Red Nol Card is a good option. I paid AED 8 for a single ride (around $2.18).
For the most current information on fares and card options, it’s advisable to check the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) website.
While the metro is a great option, I found Uber to be exceptionally convenient during my week in Dubai.
The service is reasonably priced, offers door-to-door convenience, and allows payment via cash or card. Simply install the Uber app, set up your account, and you’re ready to book rides.
Taxis are also widely available throughout the city. However, I did run into a few situations where taxi drivers took longer routes or charged more than expected, so I’d stick with Uber for a more reliable experience.
If you’re arriving via cruise, shuttle services may be available at the terminal. It’s advisable to check this option with your cruise line or inquire on-site with local operators for the most accurate information.
And if you’re exploring Old Dubai, don’t miss taking a traditional abra boat across the creek. It’s just AED 4, and while it’s not the fastest way to get around, it’s a fun, authentic experience worth doing.
That said, I still think Uber is the best way to get around. It’s affordable, and I literally used it several times a day the entire week.
Currency and Prices in Dubai
Dubai uses the UAE Dirham (AED), with an exchange rate of about 1 USD = 3.67 AED. Cards are widely accepted, but it’s good to carry some cash for taxis, souks, or small purchases.
Avoid changing money at airports or hotels, as rates are poor. Exchange offices in malls or around town usually give fair rates, and there are also options at the cruise terminal.
Dubai isn’t cheap, especially in Downtown, Marina, JBR, and Madinat Jumeirah.
Old Dubai is far more affordable, with budget-friendly food and souvenirs (like Dubai chocolate, which was way cheaper here than in the malls).
Attractions also vary: Burj Khalifa tickets start at AED 149 ($41), while places like Miracle Garden and Global Village are more affordable.
Use an eSim Card
To easily navigate the city, I highly recommend using an eSIM card, as it saves you so much time and stress. I personally use the Airalo app every time I travel, and it worked perfectly in Dubai.
Just buy a UAE plan, install it, and you’re connected right away; no need to hunt for a local SIM.
It’s ideal for booking Ubers, checking Google Maps, or looking up attraction hours as soon as you land. Just remember to download Google Maps, Uber, and maybe an offline map before your trip.
What to Wear in Dubai (+ Cultural Etiquette)
When it comes to what to wear on your Dubai cruise, light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes are a must, as there’s a lot of walking, and the heat can be intense, even in winter.
Dubai is quite modern and international, so you don’t need to cover up fully, but it’s still good to dress modestly in public areas like malls, souks, and traditional neighborhoods (shoulders and knees covered is a safe bet).
If you’re visiting a mosque or religious site, women will need a scarf to cover their head, and both men and women should wear long pants and covered shoulders.
Also, keep in mind that public displays of affection are frowned upon, and during Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours out of respect for local customs.
Where to Stay in Dubai
Dubai is huge and spread out, so where you stay makes a big difference.
If you’re short on time or cruising out of Port Rashid, I recommend staying in or near Downtown Dubai or the Business Bay area, as it’s close to the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and well-connected to everything.
My hotel of choice was the Canal Central Hotel in Business Bay, a lovely 5-star hotel that I managed to book for a surprisingly good price.
The room was spacious and cozy, breakfast was included, and the pool area was perfect for relaxing between sightseeing trips.
The hotel is located less than 4 km from the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa, so my Uber rides were cheap and under 10 minutes.
The location was also really central, so it was easy to reach other parts of Dubai, whether you wanted to go to the Marina, the Old Town, or the beach.
Other great options for a stay include Dubai Marina or Madinat Jumeirah if you prefer beach vibes or want to be near the Palm.
For something more budget-friendly and local, Old Dubai (around Deira or Bur Dubai districts) offers good value and a more traditional feel.
If you’re planning a pre- or post-cruise stay, it’s worth booking a hotel near a metro station or with good Uber access, as you’ll save both time and money.
👉 I’ve also written a detailed guide on where to stay in Dubai, covering the best areas and hotels — it’s worth checking out if you’re planning your trip.
Emirati Cuisine & Where to Eat in Dubai
Dubai is a food lover’s paradise, with everything from fine dining to street food and traditional Emirati dishes.
If you want to try local flavors, look for machboos (spiced rice with meat or fish), harees, and luqaimat (sweet fried dumplings with date syrup).
Good spots include Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant in Al Fahidi or Al Fanar for a classic Emirati vibe. Beyond that, Dubai offers it all — Indian, Lebanese, Iranian, Asian fusion, and more.
If you’re visiting Dubai on a budget, head to Old Dubai or Karama, where the food is delicious and affordable.
For a more upscale experience, Dubai Marina, Downtown, and the Palm are packed with trendy restaurants with stunning views.
Dubai Weather (When to Visit)
The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March, when the weather is warm but comfortable — perfect for sightseeing. This also matches the cruise season (November–May).
By late April, temperatures rise quickly, and from June to September, it can hit 40°C (104°F) or more.
If you’re visiting at the end of cruise season, plan outdoor activities early in the morning or evening to avoid the worst of the heat.
Safety
Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world, with very low crime rates and a strong sense of security, even at night.
It’s perfectly safe to walk around most areas, use public transport, and explore on your own.
That said, like anywhere, it’s still smart to stay aware of your surroundings and be cautious with valuables in crowded places.
Airports in Dubai/Abu Dhabi
Dubai has two main airports: Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum (DWC).
Most flights land at DXB, which is just 15–20 minutes from Port Rashid, while DWC is farther out near Jebel Ali and mostly used by low-cost carriers.
If you’re cruising, try to land at DXB for convenience.
Some travelers also arrive via Abu Dhabi (Zayed International Airport), about 1h15 by car. I landed there and took an Uber to Dubai ($80–100), which I split with other travelers.
There’s also a shuttle bus to Ibn Battuta Bus Station near Dubai Marina — cheaper, but you can’t book it in advance.
💡 Tip: Airport exchange rates are poor, so only change what you need or pay by card.
Best Things to Do in Dubai
Now let’s talk about the top things to do in Dubai, including the places and experiences you absolutely shouldn’t miss!
I spent a full week in the city and tried out a lot, but if you’re visiting for a shorter time, you can easily choose what fits your interests and schedule.
If you only have one day, I highly recommend focusing on Downtown Dubai and the Burj Khalifa area—this part of the city left the strongest impression on me and really captures the wow-factor that Dubai is known for.
👉 I’ve put together a detailed 1–2 day Dubai itinerary — check it out if you’re planning a short stay in the city!
🏙️ Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall & Aquarium)
Burj Khalifa
You simply can’t visit Dubai without seeing the Burj Khalifa — the tallest building in the world at 828 meters, nearly three times taller than the Eiffel Tower.
It has 163 floors, and the high-speed elevator takes you to the 124th floor in just about a minute.
With the basic At the Top ticket (from AED 179), you can visit the 124th and 125th floors, where there’s an open-air terrace for incredible photos, plus a gift shop, a small café, and viewing binoculars.
For a splurge, you can upgrade to level 148, home to the world’s highest observation deck at 555 meters.
And if you’re after real adrenaline, there’s even the Sky Views Edge Walk, a hands-free walk outside the tower, 219 meters above the ground. Not for the faint-hearted!
Ticket prices depend on how high you go and the time of day, so check the official website for current rates and packages.
👉 Explore Burj Khalifa tours and tickets
Dubai Mall
The Burj Khalifa is directly connected to Dubai Mall, so it’s easy to combine your visit with the Aquarium, some shopping, or just a coffee break.
Dubai Mall is one of the largest in the world, with over 1,200 stores plus attractions like an ice rink, VR Park, and the famous Aquarium.
Even if shopping isn’t your thing, it’s worth walking through to see the scale of it. Just keep in mind that food and souvenirs here are on the pricey side.
👉 Check out Dubai Mall tours and activities
After your visit to Burj Khalifa, I highly recommend stopping by L’ETO Café inside Dubai Mall—it has one of the best views of the iconic Dubai Fountain!
We went there during the day for coffee and their famous Dubai cheesecake, and came back for dinner in the evening to watch the fountain show, which was absolutely spectacular!
Prices at the café are similar to other spots in Downtown, but the view makes it totally worth it.
The Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain, right outside the Dubai Mall at the base of the Burj Khalifa, is the world’s largest choreographed fountain show.
The water jets reach up to 150 meters, dancing with music and lights — a magical sight and one of the best free experiences in the city.
Shows run every 30 minutes in the evenings, and the whole area around the Burj comes alive at night.
Watching the illuminated tower with the fountains was honestly the highlight of my trip to Dubai!
👉 Explore Dubai fountain show & lake ride tours and tickets
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
The Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, inside Dubai Mall, is one of the city’s most popular attractions.
Its huge 10-million-liter tank holds over 33,000 marine animals, including sharks, rays, and giant groupers, making it one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world.
Tickets start at AED 149 ($41), with pricier options that add extras like glass-bottom boat rides or penguin encounters. You can also book combo tickets with Burj Khalifa, which often work out as a better value.
👉 Check out Dubai Aquarium tours and tickets
🛥️ Dubai Marina
Dubai Marina is one of the city’s most modern and vibrant areas, with a waterfront lined by skyscrapers and luxury yachts.
It’s perfect for a stroll along the Marina Walk, where cafés, restaurants, and photo spots are everywhere.
A main landmark is the Dubai Marina Mall — much smaller and quieter than the Dubai Mall, but still a pleasant stop for shopping or a meal.
We had a smoothie on one of the outdoor terraces, and the views of the towers and marina were just stunning.
Nearby, you’ll also find Ain Dubai (the world’s tallest observation wheel), JBR Beach, and lots of great dining options right by the water.
For cruisers docking at Port Rashid, Dubai Marina is approximately 31 kilometers (19 miles) away, which translates to a 30 to 35-minute Uber ride, depending on traffic.
👉 Explore Dubai Marina tours and activities
🏝️ The Palm Jumeirah
The Palm Jumeirah is one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks, an artificial island shaped like a giant palm tree, packed with luxury hotels, beach clubs, and incredible views.
At the tip of the Palm is the famous Atlantis, The Palm resort, home to the Aquaventure Waterpark and the Lost Chambers Aquarium.
I didn’t have time to visit Atlantis this time, but my hotel offered free beach access to C Central Hotel & Resort The Palm, which was perfect.
We spent a relaxing afternoon there and even got to watch the sunset with Atlantis in the background—absolutely stunning!
If you want a bird’s-eye view of the island, The View at The Palm observation deck is a great spot.
There’s also Nakheel Mall for shopping and dining, and the Palm Monorail makes it easy to get around the island if you’re not using Uber.
We skipped the aquarium this time, but it’s definitely on the list for next visit!
👉 Explore The Palm Jumeirah tours and activities
🌸 Dubai Miracle Garden
We loved the Dubai Miracle Garden — it’s like walking into a floral wonderland. With over 150 million flowers arranged into arches, castles, and even a life-size Emirates A380, the displays are stunning.
The garden uses recycled water and drip irrigation to thrive in the desert, which is impressive on its own.
We spent a couple of hours exploring, taking photos, and enjoying a break with fresh mango juice and coffee.
Open from November to April, it’s a must-see. Visit on a sunny day — the colors look their best.
👉 Check out Dubai Miracle Garden tours and tickets
🎪 Global Village
Global Village turned out to be a fun surprise and such a different side of Dubai.
It’s a massive outdoor park with pavilions from around the world, where you can taste street food, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy live performances.
The park opens after 4–5 PM and is best at night, when the lights, music, and food stalls create an incredible atmosphere. There’s even a carnival area with rides and games if you want something playful.
If you’re in Dubai between October and April, it’s definitely worth an evening visit. Since it’s close to the Miracle Garden, you can easily see both in one day.
👉 Explore Global Village tours and tickets
🕌 Old Dubai and Deira
If you want to experience the more traditional side of the city, Old Dubai and Deira are a must.
We explored the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, wandered the quiet lanes, and visited the charming Coffee Museum for a small fee, which we absolutely loved.
There’s also a cozy Arabic tea café nearby where we had the most delicious Arabic tea and warm date cake: simple, tasty, and really affordable.
In Deira, we hopped on a traditional abra boat (just AED 4!) to cross the creek and explore the Gold, Textile and Spice Souks.
You can definitely bargain here, and I ended up buying Dubai chocolate, a cashmere and silk shawl, and yes, you can even buy gold if that’s on your list.
This whole area is also not far from Port Rashid, so it’s perfect for a pre- or post-cruise visit if you want to see a more authentic side of Dubai.
👉 Check out Dubai Old Town tours and activities
✨ Madinat Jumeirah and Burj al Arab
One of the prettiest places we visited was Madinat Jumeirah resort, a modern take on a traditional Arabian town, complete with canals, wind towers, and souk-style shops.
It’s such a peaceful, beautiful spot to walk around, and the whole area is packed with restaurants, cafes, and stunning photo ops.
The views of the Burj Al Arab from here are amazing, especially at night, when it’s all lit up.
A great tip: grab a table at Costa Coffee inside Madinat, it has one of the best views of the Burj Al Arab, and it’s surprisingly affordable compared to other spots around.
You can also take a little abra ride through the canals, shop for souvenirs at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, or just sit and enjoy the vibe.
Prices are a bit higher here overall, but the atmosphere makes it totally worth it—this is one of those places where you really feel the blend of old-meets-modern Dubai.
👉 Explore Madinat Jumeirah tours and experiences
🍸 Rooftop Bars & AURA Skypool Experience
If you love a good view with your drink or dinner, Dubai’s rooftop bars won’t disappoint.
We had dinner at Level 43 Sky Lounge, which sits on the 43rd floor of a hotel on Sheikh Zayed Road, and the view was absolutely spectacular with panoramic views of the Burj Khalifa, Downtown, and beyond!
Other popular rooftops include Ce La Vi (right by Burj Khalifa), Treehouse at the Taj Dubai (with views of Downtown) and Mercury Lounge at Four Seasons Jumeirah (Palm Jumeirah).
But the absolute highlight for us was the AURA Skypool.
Located on the 50th floor of The Palm Tower, it’s home to the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool—and yes, it’s as amazing as it sounds!
You absolutely must book in advance (we booked ours nearly two months ahead!) and choose from different packages based on the time of day and your seating row.
For full details, check the official website, but if you’re planning one splurge-worthy experience in Dubai, this should be it.
👉 Check out Dubai rooftop dining experiences
🏖️ Dubai Beaches & Beach Clubs
Dubai has some great beaches — clean, sandy, and with skyline views.
We visited Kite Beach, a popular spot with a relaxed vibe, food trucks, and cafés nearby. The water was a bit cold and wavy when we went, but probably just the day.
Sunbeds are pricey at around AED 130 per person, so if you’re on a budget, bring your own umbrella and towel and enjoy it for free.
We didn’t have time to check out the private beach clubs on this trip, but next time, we’ll definitely try some!
Dubai has some amazing options like Zero Gravity, Nikki Beach, White Beach at Atlantis, and DRIFT at One&Only Royal Mirage. They usually offer day passes, which can be pricey, but you get access to pools, beach lounges, and a lively atmosphere.
Ladies’ Day deals are a great way to save, as many clubs offer special discounts (or even free entry with drinks) on certain weekdays, so it’s worth checking ahead.
The easiest way to check deals or make reservations is to look up the clubs on Instagram; they usually post all the latest offers and updates there.
🏛️ Museum of The Future
One place we didn’t manage to visit was the Museum of the Future — there was simply no way to fit it into one week!
Still, the building alone is worth seeing: a futuristic structure wrapped in Arabic calligraphy that stands out along Sheikh Zayed Road.
Inside, the museum focuses on innovation, space, AI, and future technology with immersive, interactive exhibits.
Tickets often sell out days in advance, so it’s definitely one to book ahead, and something I’ll prioritize next time.
🏜️ Dubai Desert Safari
A desert safari is a must in Dubai. The tour runs from afternoon to sunset and takes you out to the dunes for 4×4 dune bashing — bumpy but so much fun!
I also tried sand surfing, which was harder than it looks but unforgettable.
The evening ended at a desert camp with dinner and shows under the stars. Camel rides were available, but I chose not to join, as I don’t support animals being used for tourist photos.
💡 Tip: Take motion sickness pills before dune bashing and bring a scarf for the sand. Watching the sunset over the desert was truly unforgettable.
🌅 Day Trip to Abu Dhabi
During our week in Dubai, we decided to take a day trip to Abu Dhabi to get a quick overview of the city.
We booked a tour through Viator, and it turned out to be a fantastic way to experience the capital’s highlights in a short time.
The standout of the trip was undoubtedly the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This architectural masterpiece is one of the world’s largest mosques and can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers.
Its design blends Mameluke, Ottoman, and Fatimid styles, and creates a stunning homage to Islamic architecture.
A strict dress code applies: both men and women must wear long, loose-fitting clothing, and women must cover their hair with a headscarf. No transparent or tight clothes are allowed.
If needed, you can buy (there’s no option to rent like before!) an abaya and headscarf in the mall next to the mosque; prices range from AED 45 to AED 150.
After the mosque, we made a stop at the Emirates Palace, a symbol of luxury and opulence in Abu Dhabi.
Fans of “Sex and the City 2” might recognize this iconic hotel from the film. 🙂
The grandeur of the palace, with its lavish interiors and sprawling gardens, was truly impressive. The best photos are taken right in front of the palace—don’t miss it!
Next, we visited the Heritage Village, a reconstructed traditional oasis village that offers a glimpse into the emirate’s past.
Situated near Marina Mall, the village features an old-world souk, a mosque, and a camp modeled on life in the pre-modern UAE.
From here, we enjoyed a beautiful view of Corniche Beach, with its pristine shoreline set against the city’s modern skyline.
We also stopped at Yas Mall, adjacent to the famous Ferrari World. While we didn’t have time to explore the amusement park, the mall itself was expansive and offered a variety of shopping and dining options.
Another stop was the Dates Market, where vendors showcased a vast array of dates and related products. While the selection was extensive, the market itself felt like a standard marketplace and didn’t leave a lasting impression.
Finally, we visited a carpet shop, where we learned about the intricate art of carpet weaving and had the opportunity to view and purchase a variety of handcrafted carpets.
Overall, the day trip provided a comprehensive snapshot of Abu Dhabi’s rich cultural heritage and modern developments.
It’s a journey I’d recommend to anyone looking to experience the diverse facets of the UAE’s capital.
Other Great Attractions to Visit in Dubai
If you have more time or want to explore beyond the main highlights, here are a few more must-see places in Dubai that are definitely worth adding to your list:
- Dubai Frame – Huge golden frame in Zabeel Park with views of Old Dubai on one side and the modern skyline on the other.
- The Lost Chambers Aquarium (Atlantis, The Palm) – Beautifully themed aquarium with tunnels and chambers inspired by Atlantis. Great for families, though a bit pricey.
- Green Planet – Indoor rainforest at City Walk with 3,000+ plants and animals. You might spot sloths, parrots, or reptiles up close.
- Al Seef District – A modern development styled like old Dubai, with shops, restaurants, and a lovely Creekside promenade.
- IMG Worlds of Adventure – Dubai’s largest indoor theme park with Marvel, Cartoon Network, and dinosaur zones. Fun for families or thrill-seekers.
- Museum of Illusions – Small but fun stop in Al Seef with optical illusions, mirrors, and quirky photo ops.
- Dubai Opera – Stunning Downtown venue hosting concerts, musicals, ballet, comedy, and more.
Final Thoughts
Dubai truly blew me away with its mix of futuristic architecture, cultural gems, luxury experiences, and yet traditional vibe.
Whether you’re cruising from Dubai or just visiting for a few days, this city has something for everyone—you just need a plan to make the most of your time.
I hope this guide helps you get inspired, stay organized, and enjoy every moment of your Dubai adventure. And trust me… you’ll already be planning your next trip before you leave! 🙂
You may also like our cruise port guides to the Mediterranean, Caribbean, Northern Europe, USA & Canada, Middle East, Australia & New Zealand
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