DUBAI TRAVEL BLOG

In January 2017, five of my girlfriends and I embarked on our first international trip to Dubai. Fresh out of university and with just a year of work under our belts, we decided it was high time for a girls’ getaway. Armed with our freshly minted passports, a sense of adventure, and an unhealthy amount of Pinterest travel boards, we landed in the city of gold, ready to take on the world—one place at a time.

Day 1 :

Arrival in Dubai

After a 4-hour early morning flight, we landed in Dubai, bleary-eyed but buzzing with excitement. We navigated through the bustling airport, and as we stepped outside, we were greeted by our friendly driver holding a sign with our names.

“Welcome to Dubai, ladies!” he said with a warm smile, and began loading our numerous bags (because six girls obviously need enough luggage for a small army).

“This is it, girlies! Our Dubai adventure begins!” I announced, to a chorus of excited squeals and giggles. The drive to our hotel, the Fortune Grand Hotel, was filled with exclamations of awe as we passed by futuristic skyscrapers and palm-lined boulevards. Arriving at the hotel, we checked in and were shown to our rooms, where we took a moment to freshen up and relax. Given the early start, we decided to catch up on some rest. We spent the morning lounging in our hotel rooms, sharing excited whispers about our plans and nibbling on snacks.

Visit to Dubai Mall, Underwater Zoo and Burj Khalifa

At precisely 3:00 PM, our vehicle pulled up to the hotel. The driver greeted us with a polite nod. We piled into the car, the air conditioning instantly reviving us from the desert heat.

The drive to the Dubai Mall was filled with exclamations of awe as we passed by the futuristic skyscrapers that dotted the skyline. Upon arriving, we were struck by the sheer size of the place. The Dubai Mall isn’t just a mall—it’s a sprawling metropolis of luxury stores, cafes, and even an aquarium. We stepped out of the car, feeling like we’d just arrived at a palace.

Our first adventure in the mall was the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. The massive aquarium tank, teeming with marine life, was mesmerizing. We walked through a 48-meter tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and a rainbow of tropical fish. It felt like we were in an underwater wonderland. The playful otters and majestic sea creatures made us feel like kids again, filled with awe and excitement.

After our marine adventure, it was time to ascend the heights of the iconic Burj Khalifa(the tallest building in the world). We felt like VIPs as our guide led us through an exclusive entrance, bypassing the crowds. The elevator ride to the 148th floor was exhilarating—our ears popped as we soared upwards. The doors opened to reveal a view that took our breath away. Dubai stretched out beneath us, a glittering oasis in the desert.

“Is this real life?” one of my friends gasped, all of us snapping photos like a paparazzo. We took our time, soaking in the panoramic views and taking countless photos to capture the moment.

Evening: Fountain Show and Return to the Hotel

As the sun set, we made our way to the Dubai Fountain. The air was filled with anticipation as we found a perfect spot to watch the show. When the music started and the fountains began to dance, it was pure magic. Jets of water shot up, perfectly synchronized with the music, creating a spectacle of light and sound. We stood there, mesmerized, as the fountains performed their enchanting dance.

As the day wound down, our private vehicle was ready to take us back to our hotel. We climbed in, exhausted but exhilarated by our first day in Dubai. The ride back was filled with chatter about the day’s highlights, plans for the next day’s adventures, and a few silly selfies to capture our excitement.

Back at the hotel, we kicked off our shoes and flopped onto our beds, still buzzing from the day’s experiences. We decided to have a low-key dinner at the hotel restaurant, recounting our favorite moments and making sure to update our social media stories with the most envy-inducing photos. 😛

Our first day in Dubai was a whirlwind of luxury, awe-inspiring sights, and marine wonders. The blend of opulence and adventure set the perfect tone for our trip, making it a day we would remember for years to come. As we drifted off to sleep that night, we couldn’t wait to see what the next day would bring in this magical city.

Day 2: A Blend of Relaxation and Arabian Nights

After an exhilarating first day in Dubai, we woke up refreshed and ready to make the most of our second day. Since our evening was reserved for a magical dhow cruise, we had the entire morning to relax and enjoy ourselves.

We started the day with a visit to the hotel gym. Despite our late night, we were all eager to keep up with our fitness routines. We spent a good hour working out together, challenging each other on the treadmills and trying out different weights and machines.

After our gym session, we headed to the hotel’s stunning rooftop pool. The cool water was a perfect antidote to the morning heat. We spent hours splashing around, floating lazily, and lounging by the poolside.

Exploring Dubai and Shopping Spree

Once we were sufficiently pruned from the pool, post breakfast, we decided to explore the streets of Dubai. The city was a blend of old and new, with traditional markets nestled between gleaming skyscrapers. We wandered through the bustling streets, taking in the sights and sounds of the city. The aroma of spices and incense wafted through the air, mingling with the scent of fresh street food.

Our casual stroll soon turned into an all-out shopping spree. We visited several souks and markets, where we bartered for souvenirs and gifts for our friends and family back home. The Gold Souk dazzled us with its glittering array of jewelry, while the Spice Souk tempted our senses with vibrant spices and teas.

We also couldn’t resist buying some “first copy” items—designer accessories at a fraction of the price. It was all part of the fun and excitement of shopping in Dubai.

“Who needs the real deal when these look just as good?” we laughed, each of us sporting a new designer knockoff.

Evening: Dhow Cruise with Dinner

After a fulfilling day of exploration and shopping, we headed back to the hotel to freshen up for our evening adventure. Right on time, our driver arrived to pick us up for the much-anticipated dhow cruise.

We arrived at the Dubai Creek and were greeted by the sight of a traditional wooden dhow, beautifully lit up and ready to set sail. The crew welcomed us with warm Arabic hospitality, and we were shown to our table on the open deck. The atmosphere was enchanting, with the soft glow of the lights reflecting off the water and traditional Arabic music playing in the background.

As the dhow gently glided along the creek, we were treated to a sumptuous buffet dinner. The spread included a variety of delicious Middle Eastern dishes—hummus, falafel, grilled meats, and fragrant rice. We indulged in the flavors, each bite better than the last.

Tanoura dance show

The highlight of the evening was the Tanoura dance show. A talented performer, dressed in a vibrant, multi-colored skirt, took the stage and began spinning in an almost hypnotic dance. The skirt, illuminated by lights, created a mesmerizing swirl of colors. We watched in awe, captivated by the grace and skill of the dancer.

As the cruise came to an end, we couldn’t stop talking about the wonderful evening we had just experienced. The beauty of the creek at night, the delicious food, and the captivating show made it an unforgettable experience. Our driver was waiting for us as we disembarked, and we were soon on our way back to the hotel.

Day 2 in Dubai was a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. From a fun-filled morning at the gym and pool to an exciting shopping spree in the city’s bustling streets, and finally, a magical evening on a traditional dhow cruise, it was a day packed with memorable moments. As we drifted off to sleep, we couldn’t help but feel grateful for this incredible journey we were on, eager to see what the next day would bring.

Day 3: Dubai City Tour and Desert Safari

Morning: Half-Day Dubai City Tour

Our third day in Dubai began with an early start. Our tour guide arrived at the hotel to pick us up for a half-day city tour. We piled into the comfortable air-conditioned van, buzzing with excitement for the day’s adventures.

Our first stop was the Dubai Museum, located within the Al Fahidi Fort, an 18th-century structure that stands as the oldest building in Dubai. Walking through the museum, we marveled at exhibits that showcased the history and culture of the region. Life-sized dioramas and ancient artifacts transported us back in time, providing a fascinating glimpse into Dubai’s transformation from a humble fishing village to a bustling metropolis.

Burj Al Arab, The Palm Island and Atlantis Hotel

Next, we visited to the iconic Burj Al Arab, the sail-shaped hotel that holds the distinction of being the world’s only seven-star hotel. Even from a distance, its opulence was unmistakable. We stopped at a viewpoint to take in the grandeur of this architectural marvel.

Our journey continued to the Palm Island, a remarkable artificial island that looks like a palm tree from above. We drove along its scenic roads, passing luxurious villas and pristine beaches. The centerpiece of the island, Atlantis Hotel, loomed large as we drove by. Its grandeur was spellbinding, and we made a mental note to come back and explore its Aquaventure Waterpark someday.

Next, we saw the Mall of the Emirates, home to Ski Dubai—a massive indoor ski resort. As the tour concluded, we were dropped back at our hotel, exhilarated and hungry for our next adventure.

We spent the afternoon relaxing and preparing for the evening’s desert safari. We lounged by the pool, shared stories, and laughed about our experiences so far. Little did we know, the best was yet to come.

Evening: Desert Safari

Right on schedule, a sturdy 4×4 arrived to pick us up for the desert safari. Our driver, a friendly and experienced guide, welcomed us and explained the evening’s itinerary as we drove out of the city and into the desert.

The adventure kicked off with exhilarating dune bashing. We held on tight as the driver expertly navigated the towering sand dunes, our vehicle sliding and bouncing over the sandy terrain. The thrill of the ride had us all laughing and screaming in delight.

ATV rides, Camel rides & Camp Activities

During our desert safari, we took our adventure up a notch with exhilarating ATV rides across the dunes. The thrill of speeding over the sand with my girlfriends was unbeatable, as we laughed and cheered each other on, leaving a trail of excitement in our wake. It was an unforgettable highlight of our desert adventure, adding an extra burst of adrenaline to our already unforgettable day.

We stopped atop a high dune to watch the sunset. The sky transformed into a canvas of vibrant oranges and pinks. After capturing the beauty of the moment, we had the chance to ride camels. It was a bit wobbly at first, but soon we were all giggling and enjoying the unique experience.

BBQ Dinner, Refreshments and Entertainment Shows

Arriving at the desert camp, we were welcomed with Arabic coffee and dates. The camp was beautifully set up with traditional Bedouin tents, soft carpets, and cozy seating areas. We tried our hand at sandboarding, with mixed success, and even got henna designs painted on our hands.

Dinner was a feast of delicious barbecue, featuring a variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes. We loaded our plates with grilled dishes, salads, and traditional Arabic dishes. There were also unlimited refreshments, which kept us cool and hydrated.

The evening entertainment began with a mesmerizing Tanoura dance, performed by a male artist in a swirling skirt illuminated by lights. Next up was a belly dance show, where the dancer’s graceful movements captivated the entire audience. We even had the chance to put henna , dress up in traditional Arabic attire and take photos, adding a fun and cultural touch to the evening. For those who wanted to try, there was a shisha smoking area. We relaxed under the starry desert sky, enjoying the tranquil atmosphere and reflecting on the day’s adventures.

As the evening drew to a close, we were driven back to our hotel. The ride was quiet, with everyone happily exhausted from the day’s activities. We arrived at our hotel with full hearts and beautiful memories of an incredible day in Dubai.

Day 3 in Dubai was a perfect blend of city exploration and desert adventure. From the historical and modern wonders of the city to the thrilling and cultural experiences in the desert, it was a day that showcased the diverse beauty and excitement of Dubai. We couldn’t wait to see what the next day would bring in this magical city.

Day 4: Full Day Abu Dhabi City Tour & Ferrari World

On Day 4, we explored Abu Dhabi, marveling at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and experiencing the thrill of Ferrari World. For a detailed account of our adventures, check out my blog post, “A Memorable Day in Abu Dhabi“

Day 5: Farewell to Dubai

Our final day in Dubai began bright and early. At 7:00 AM, we checked out of the Fortune Grand Hotel, our home away from home for the past few days. With our bags packed and hearts full of memories, we said goodbye to the welcoming staff who had made our stay so comfortable.

Our driver arrived promptly to take us to the airport. As we drove through the city one last time, we reminisced about the incredible adventures we had experienced—from the dazzling cityscape and luxurious shopping malls to the serene desert safari and cultural landmarks of Abu Dhabi.

Arriving at the airport, we were filled with mixed emotions. We were sad to leave but excited to share our stories and souvenirs with friends and family back home. As our flight took off, we looked out the window, watching Dubai’s skyline fade into the distance, already dreaming of our next adventure together.