Dubai sightseeing

[2023forme]

HI all. I will be staying in Dubai for four days in March. Not somewhere I would particularly choose to go to but going as part of a work trip.

I really only want to go up the Burj Khalifa, visit some markets and generally have a nosey around. Not interested in the Dubai Mall, waterparks, aquarium etc.

Has anyone who has been got any advice? Is it better to buy tickets for things here before we go? Is the hop on hop off bus enough to see around the main sites?

Also - am I missing something with regards to not planning much? Where would you recommend for two 50 something adults who are not too fussed about the whole Dubai vibe?

TIA

See if you can get tickets for the Museum of the Future!

The Dubai museum is good, tells you about the history of Dubai. I did it as part of an afternoon culture tour which I would recommend but I can’t remember the company I booked with.
If you go over to Abu Dhabi the white mosque is definitely worth seeing.
An evening desert tour is also worth doing.
The evening fountain show outside the mall with the burj Khalifa is good, you should book a restaurant overlooking and see it from there, I went to a Lebanese restaurant that was good.

Cross Dubai Creak on an Abra.
Used to be 1 AED - pennies - each way.

yes you need to book Burj Khalifa tickets online, it is more easier than the line there. Also, you can visit the future of museum, IMG world, Dubai garden glow, Dubai frame. You can try a helicopter ride in Dubai, as it is an amazing experience.

If you're looking for a more relaxed Dubai experience, consider the Dhow Cruise Dubai Marina & Creek Deals. They offer a serene journey through the city's waterways, showcasing both the modern skyline and the historic side of Dubai. This is a great way to enjoy a leisurely evening while taking in the city's charm. Tickets for such cruises can often be purchased on the spot, allowing for flexibility in your plans, making it a perfect choice for those not keen on the bustling attractions.

I would suggest a visit to the Dubai Miracle Garden.

Do old Dubai and visit the heritage centre:https://www.visitdubai.com/en/articles/discover-dubais-old-town

Take the abra across the creek and visit the gold souks.

Do the View of the Palm, located in Nakheel Mall on the Palm. My budding architect daughter geeked out big time at this.

You can also take a day trip to Abu Dhabi (about 1.5hrs by taxi) to visit the Sheikh Zayed grand mosque (breathtakingly stunning), the Louvre and Qasr al Watan place.

Definitely pre book burj khalifa. We didn’t and were not able to get any tickets at any time for the four days we were there.

eating dinner outside while watching the burj khalifa laser light show / water fountains show of an evening is pleasant

I would skip the creek dhow tour. It is neon lights and loud party music. Twas obnoxious just going past us. I can’t imagine being on one of those boats!

eat on the outdoor balcony at the Walnut Grove in Dubai Mall. Food was delicious, reasonably priced and a perfect view of the Burg Khalid’s and fountain.