How to Maximise Your Layover in Dubai

Travellers with a layover scheduled at Dubai International Airport have a unique opportunity to experience one of the most exciting cities on earth, even if it is just for a few hours. From touring the metropolis’s iconic landmarks to savouring a dose of retail therapy at the many shopping mega centres and taking in the local culture, a layover in the exotic Gulf city can only make for a delightful experience. Here’s everything you need to know about how to make the most of your Dubai layover.

Short Layover (3-6 Hours)

Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa

Presumably the largest shopping mall in Dubai and the second largest shopping mall in the world, Dubai Mall in downtown Dubai is literally shoppers’ heaven on earth. With an indoor aquarium, an ice rink, and a sprawling food court, the swanky mall offers more than just retail therapy.

The world’s tallest tower, Burj Khalifa, is Dubai’s undisputed crown jewel that needs no introduction. Zoom up to the observation decks, “At The Top” on the 124th and 125th floors or “At The Top SKY” on the 148th floor to take in breathtaking views of the world-class Dubai cityscape.

Dubai Fountain

The world’s largest choreographed fountain, Dubai Fountain, located on the 12-hectare artificial Burj Khalifa Lake just outside Dubai Mall, is an unmissable sight and certainly a treat for the eyes.

Moderate Layover (6-10 Hours)

Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach

As the sun goes down and the azure blue skies slowly fade away, nothing says a delightful evening in the Gulf city like the Dubai Marina. Stroll along the waterfront promenade, soak up the magnificent city views or take a boat ride across the emerald waters.

Sun lovers and beach bums are also appeased as Jumeirah Beach in the heart of the city is a perfect slice of beach to savour a slice of sun, sand and sea.

Mall of the Emirates and Ski Dubai

Mall of the Emirates is yet another ritzy shopping mega centre calling Dubai home. Housing more than 630 retail outlets, over 100 restaurants and cafes, 80 luxury stores and 250 flagship stores, you are absolutely spoiled for choice.

One of the main highlights of the mall is Ski Dubai, an indoor ski area, offering you the chance to ski, snowboard, meet penguins, zip line and much more.

Dubai Creek

While ultra-modern skyscrapers and mind-blowing extravagance characterise modern-day Dubai, the quaint charm of the Dubai of centuries past is still alive in Dubai Creek. The old-world buildings of the historic Deira and Bur Dubai districts set amidst the glass-swathed high-rises strike a fascinating juxtaposition certainly worth to behold.

Long Layover (10+ Hours)

Desert Safari

Any time spent in the Middle East would hardly be complete without some quintessential desert safari under your belt, and Dubai is no different. Take your pick from dune bashing, camel rides and sandboarding and experience the sprawling golden sands like never before. After a day of fun and exhilaration, retreat to a fine Dubai island resort; your options include Anantara World Islands Dubai.

Dubai Miracle Garden

The world’s largest natural flower garden, Dubai Miracle Garden, is undoubtedly one of the best attractions to visit during your layover in Dubai. With over 150 million flowers of different varieties calling the sprawling garden home, you are in for a nature fix steeped in breathtaking beauty.

Dubai Museum and Gold Souk

Ardent history buffs craving a dose of fascinating history in the Gulf city, make your way to Dubai Museum, the city’s main museum, to feed your appetite for history, culture and heritage.

Longing shoppers aren’t also left dissatisfied as the old-world Gold Souk makes for an authentic Arab-style retail therapy.