Ten reasons you should make a stopover in Dubai

The short answer is yes, but there are a few catches, and it will all depend on how long you have between flights. For example, if you’ve just got an hour or so between flights, then it’s definitely not worth leaving the airport. There are plenty of things to do in the Dubai airport to keep you entertained. On the other hand, if you have a long stopover in Dubai then leaving the airport is absolutely fine, as long as you have the right visa. You don’t need a visa if you’re just transiting through Dubai airport. But, travellers from most countries will need one to leave the airport. Find out about your visa requirements using the Emirates tool. If you’re booking with Emirates or Etihad, which you may well be if stopping off in Dubai, you can get your hands on a visa through the airline.

It is always exciting to transit through Dubai yet, more so if you can leave the airport and explore. If you’d rather have things organised for you than go it alone, you can even book a tailor-made Dubai stopover tour in advance. But, to get you inspired, here are our top picks of things to do during your short break.

One of the most iconic landmarks of the city is the Dubai Frame, a 150-metre-tall golden rectangle. It is famous for its strategic position which beautifully frames two contrasting sides of the city - the modern skyline to the south and the traditional neighbourhoods to the north. The structure houses a museum documenting the city’s rapid growth but the real highlight is the glass walkway at the top which offers panoramic views for as far as the eye can see.

While Dubai hosted the world-famous Expo 2020, the city continues to buzz with major festivals and events all year long, from the Dubai Shopping Festival to the Dubai Jazz Festival, there’s always something interesting going on. 

Those visiting Dubai are always faced with a buzzing cultural scene full of new things in Dubai all year round. Even during the balmy winter months, there are all kinds of big festivals here, from film to literature to jazz.

The key to making the very most of your stopover in Dubai is to book yourself into one of the best hotels in Dubai, whether it’s just for a night or you fancy getting comfortable and staying for a few days. Not sure where to start your hotel search? If it’s the best stopover hotel in Dubai you’re looking for, then don’t skimp on luxury. Dukes The Palm is home to the iconic Dukes Bar plus it also has its own private beach for the ultimate relaxing getaway. What’s more, it also offers a whisky and cigar bar, a champagne and tea bar plus it is renowned for its mouth-wateringly delicious fusion food. 

There is no shortage of things to explore in Dubai on a layover, whatever your tastes or your final destination. The best thing to do is discover your surroundings, and then let the adventure continue. Need inspiration? Here are the things that are a must-do in Dubai.

If it’s a dose of history or culture you want on your stopover in Dubai, there is plenty of that. You can still find traditional souks where you can haggle over textiles and spices. Head to the Al Shindagha Museum to understand how this city developed into the futuristic place it is today. Located on the banks of Dubai Creek, this museum offers a glimpse at the transformation from a humble fishing village to the global metropolis that Dubai is today. Expect interactive exhibits, immersive multimedia, and carefully preserved artefacts that all narrate the traditional Emirati way of life, including pearl diving, trade routes, and the evolution of Dubai’s architecture.

Use your stopover in Dubai to tick the world’s tallest building off your to-see list. The Burj Khalifa is an incredible 828m high and is an awe-inspiring sight. This true symbol of Dubai’s futuristic vision is only a 15-minute taxi ride away from the airport, or half an hour on public transport. Ascend the observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors to discover breathtaking views across the city and the Arabian Gulf.

The Dubai Mall is the second-largest in the world, a fact which is bound to get any fashionistas raring to visit it. If shopping sounds like the perfect way for you to relax between flights, look no further. From designer brands to local chains, you will be spoilt for choice. Yet it’s not just for shopping—it also has an aquarium, an indoor ice rink, a cinema, and the Dubai Fountain show outside. If a more traditional experience is desired, head to the Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a modern take on a classic Arabian bazaar. 

Wherever you’ve come from or are heading to, the deserts of Dubai are almost certainly going to be an incredible contrast. If you book a flight with a stopover in Dubai, why not spend one of your nights in Dubai out amongst the dunes? Discover what life was once like for the inhabitants of this harshly beautiful area but with a dash of luxury thrown in.

If you are looking for things to do in Dubai during a layover look no further than the Dubai Gold Souk. Located in the city’s commercial business district of Deira, this market is packed full of over 380 local jewellery traders, some of whom have been selling there for 40 years

The main items on sale are gold, silver and precious stones such as diamonds. It is not uncommon to score good deals so make sure that you practise your haggling skills before going here as you will be likely to need them. 

Be sure that energy levels are supercharged in order to enjoy all the unique experiences in Dubai. Let experts guide you around the installations and discover first-hand the history of coffee making in the Emirates. See all the tools and machinery used in the process and enjoy a tasting of Arabic coffee as you listen to the stories about coffee’s impact on Dubai. Travel back in time and uncover the reasons why coffee has become such an important part of Dubai culture over the years. A must-do in Dubai for coffee lovers.

Shelter from the heat of the day and keep kids happy with a trip to the Aquaventure waterpark, the world’s largest water park. Push your adrenaline levels to the limits with the exciting array of slides. Or, take to the skies on the zip-line circuit. There is also a beach and the chance to witness some incredible sea life up close and personal at their aquarium. Kids will love playing on all the rides and it’s an ideal way to keep them cool and wear them out before their next flight. With its central location and enviable fun factor, Aquaventure is definitely on the list of adventure places in Dubai with kids.