Dubai in a Few Hours: What to Do During a Long Stopover

Dubai may be known for its towering skyscrapers and luxurious shopping malls, but if you find yourself on a long layover at Dubai International Airport, don’t just resign to spending hours in the terminal. Instead, seize the opportunity to embark on a mini urban adventure and discover a blend of futuristic marvels and cultural treasures this city offers. With the smooth operations at one of the world’s busiest airports and efficient visa-on-arrival processes for many nationalities, stepping out into the desert metropolis is easier than you might think.

Whether you’re fascinated by architecture, hungry for Middle Eastern cuisine, or want to shop until you drop, there’s always something for you. So, with a few hours to spare in DBX (we recommend at least 5), let’s explore what you can do during your long stopover in Dubai.

Before We Start Our Dubai Dubai Stopover Itinerary

Firstly, check the visa requirements. While stopovers often don’t require a visa to pass through the airport, leaving the terminal might require one. Luckily, US, Canadian, British, and Irish citizens are exempt from visa requirements upon entering the United Arab Emirates. Still, it’s always best to verify online or with your consulate to avoid surprises.

Time management is crucial during your layover—ensure you leave enough cushion time (at least an hour and a half) to return comfortably for your onward flight. Every attraction in this guide comes with an estimated visit time, so you can easily choose experiences that fit seamlessly into your schedule. Also note that we’re assuming you’ll move by taxi, as it’s the most practical means of moving through the city during a quick visit. You can hire a private driver with hourly rates here.

A trip to the Burj Khalifa’s sky-touching observation deck is often at the top of many travelers’ lists; remember to get your tickets ahead for a smooth experience (you can book Burj Khalifa tickets here). Lastly, finding accommodation may be necessary if you’re staying overnight. Check out our article about the best areas to stay in Dubai so you can rest easy and continue your journey refreshed.

Things to See in Dubai in a Few Hours: A Dubai Stopover Itinerary

Whether you have just a few hours or a full day, there’s plenty to explore while you wait for your connection.

We’ve included, along with the things to see, an estimate of the time it might take you to visit each place, a cost estimate, and whether it’s a must-see attraction. That way, you can easily decide which items to skip. Here’s our recommended Dubai itinerary:

Start your journey by catching a taxi from Dubai International Airport to the Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort. This is a great place to get a glimpse into Dubai’s transformation from a small fishing village to the glamorous metropolis it is today. While the museum itself isn’t particularly jaw-dropping (most of it is a modern reconstruction using traditional techniques), it offers an insightful introduction to the region’s past.

After soaking up some history, take a stroll around the museum area. Here, you’ll find the charming alleys of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, which houses some of the city’s oldest buildings, quaint cafés, and art galleries. Don’t miss the Textile Souk, where you can browse through various colorful fabrics and souvenirs.

Just nearby is the beautiful Dubai Creek, where you can enjoy picturesque views of traditional abras (water taxis) gliding over the water against the backdrop of Deira’s skyline on the opposite shore. For just a few coins, hop on an abra for a short ride across this historic waterway—a quintessential part of Dubai.

After seeing where the city came from, experience where it’s going by heading straight to the iconic Dubai Mall. A wonder not to be missed, this massive shopping destination is an attraction in its own right. Ask your driver to take you directly there. Once inside, go to the awe-inspiring Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. This massive tank holds over 10,000 cubic meters (2.6 million gallons) of water. No wonder it’s the second-largest aquarium on the planet. It’s teeming with an incredible variety of marine life, including imposing sharks and graceful stingrays. Stroll through the mesmerizing underwater glass tunnel for a close-up view or admire the magic from the free viewing areas within the mall. For thrill-seekers, there’s even an option to dive into the tank and swim with sharks. You can book tickets here.

With this aquatic wonder explored, venture into the sprawling expanses of Dubai Mall. Covering an impressive 500,000 square meters (over 5 million square feet), it’s recognized as the world’s largest shopping center by total area. Here, you’ll discover a vast selection of shops predominantly featuring mid-range to upscale Western brands—perfect for enthusiasts of window shopping or those looking for a little retail therapy amidst their travels. If Dubai Mall’s impressive size seems overwhelming, you can book an expert personal shopper here.

After indulging in some shopping spree delight, set your sights on one of Dubai’s most stunning spectacles—the Dubai Fountain. Located beside Dubai Mall in Burj Khalifa Lake, it’s renowned as one of the largest choreographed fountain systems globally. If your timing is right, you’ll be captivated by a dazzling display of water jets dancing to music, lights, and lasers.

At the heart of these architectural wonders stands the iconic Burj Khalifa. Soaring at over 828 meters (2,716 feet), it claims the title of the tallest building in the world. If your schedule permits, visit its panoramic deck on the 124th floor (and if you’re feeling adventurous, head up to the higher observation points!). The basic entrance fee is around AED 160 (45 USD), and it’s worth every dirham for the breathtaking views you’ll experience. You’ll get an unparalleled vantage point of Dubai’s sprawling cityscape.

If you’re afraid of heights, pressed for time, or on a budget, you can still marvel at the gargantuan building from outside. Burj Khalifa is truly a testament to modern architectural ingenuity. The design of this iconic structure was inspired by the geometric patterning found in Islamic architecture, embodying a harmonious blend of tradition and futurism. The exterior is clad in over 26,000 glass panels, providing both form and function by reflecting the vibrant desert sun. The tower’s Y-shaped tripartite floor geometry optimizes residential and hotel space, while its tapering layout allows for superior wind performance. In addition to its awe-inspiring design, the Burj Khalifa features an LED lighting system that illuminates the tower at night.

Also, next time you’re in town, because we’re sure you will be back for longer, make sure to check out its uber-luxurious five-star hotel. The Armani Hotel Dubai, Burj Khalifa, nestled within the iconic skyscraper, epitomizes luxury with sleek Italian design. Conceived by fashion mogul Giorgio Armani himself, this hotel brings a blend of elegance and sophisticated simplicity to its decor and service.

When you think Dubai has run out of superlatives, it surprises you again. Hop into another taxi and head to the place where luxury has no limits: the glamorous Jumeirah beachfront.

The Jumeirah district is nothing short of spectacular, offering pristine stretches of white sandy beaches and azure waters. It’s a slice of paradise that effortlessly combines modernity with natural beauty. This area is not just about beaches; it is also home to many upscale restaurants, designer boutiques, and world-famous architectural wonders like the Jumeirah Burj Al Arab Dubai.

An icon of modern Dubai, this sail-shaped hotel, perched on its own island, is the epitome of luxury travel. While entry is reserved for guests and those with dining reservations, you can still marvel at its stunning architecture from Jumeirah Beach, which offers breathtaking views of the Burj Al Arab’s gleaming white facade during the day and its colorful illuminations at night. For those looking to indulge, book a dine-in experience at one of its world-class restaurants, such as Al Muntaha, 200 meters (656 feet) above sea level.

For those seeking an affordable meal with views of the Burj Al Arab Hotel—often hailed as the world’s only seven-star hotel—head to the nearby Holiday Inn Express Dubai Internet City. This budget-friendly, 3-star property offers breathtaking views over Dubai’s iconic skyline and an affordable on-site restaurant.

Nearby lie the iconic Palm Islands, an archipelago designed to resemble a palm tree extending into the Persian Gulf. These human-made islands are symbolic of Dubai’s penchant for pushing boundaries for luxury’s sake. Visit Palm Jumeirah, the most famous among these islands, which houses luxurious hotels like Atlantis The Palm and Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort.

For adventurers willing to splurge, booking a helicopter ride is a thrilling way to get an exclusive bird’ s-eye view of iconic landmarks. You’ll see sights such as the Palm Jumeirah and the Burj Al Arab from above. Witnessing these architectural wonders from a few hundred meters in the sky offers an unforgettable perspective on this futuristic city.

4. Back from the Future (and to the Airport)

Plan your return journey well so you don’t miss your flight! From Jumeirah Beach, it’ll take approximately 30 minutes and cost around 80 AED (22 USD) by taxi back to Dubai International Airport.

And if you still have time before your next flight, remember that Dubai International Airport itself offers plenty to do! Visit attractions like Zen Gardens or enjoy high-end dining and shopping there. For more luxury and relaxation before your flight, check out one of the VIP lounges like Marhaba Lounge or Emirates Business Class Lounge—they offer everything from top-notch food and alcohol to comfortable resting areas. Whether you’re flying Business or Economy, you can book a single VIP Lounge access ticket for DXB Airport or get a yearly Priority Pass membership, which offers ten discounted visits to VIP lounges worldwide.

A Visit to Dubai: Video

Most of the attractions described above can be seen in this video.