Be sure to start with part one of this series by clicking here.
Dubai offers so much to see and do that it is a bit of a challenge to experience it all in just 24hrs. Don’t get me wrong, you can still create an unforgettable experience but if you have the chance to stay an extra day or two, I highly recommend it!
I had scheduled a sunrise camel tour so I started my day very early (3:30am) and was promptly picked up by a tour guide who took me to the desert. This is honestly one of the most incredible experiences and I highly suggest everyone go on this tour when visiting Dubai. The concierge at your hotel will be able to help you book this once in a lifetime tour. There is nothing like being in the middle of the desert, surrounded by sand dunes as the sun rises. If you’ve never ridden a camel, it’s such a fun experience. I feel as if the photos don’t do the desert justice; there is something so magical about being in the desert with nothing but sand in sight. This was without a doubt, one of the highlights of my trip to Dubai.
The camel tour was over by 9am and since Dubai is only a short one-hour drive to Abu-Dhabi, I had to take the opportunity to visit the beautiful capital city of the United Arab Emirates. I woke up early and scheduled a car service to take me to Abu Dhabi so I could see the incredible Sheikh Zayed Mosque. The mosque was constructed from 1996 to 2007 using natural materials such as stone, gold, semi-precious stones, crystals and ceramics. It is incredible and the pictures don’t do it justice. There is a dress code when visiting the mosque and if you don’t feel as if you have the proper attire, they will happily provide you a burka. If you are in Dubai, it is without a doubt worth taking an hour drive to see the largest and most grandiose mosque in the United Arab Emirates. The mosque opens by 9am daily so you can easily be back in Dubai my noon.
While in Dubai, you have to visit The Palm. The Palm islands of Dubai are three artificial islands that were recently completed in 2014. Only in Dubai will you find man made islands! The Palm is home to some of the most luxurious and exciting resorts. This is another great place to spend the day relaxing while eating at some of the best restaurants. If you are traveling with the family, Atlantis Dubai is a 5-star resort with incredible activities and immense waterpark.
After stopping at The Palm, I headed over to Jumeriah Beach, Dubai’s premier beach area! You must see the sands of this beautiful beach; it is covered in the softest white sand that stretches along the stunning blue water of the Persian Gulf. There are numerous resorts in Jumeriah Beach where you can rent a cabana for the day while relaxing by the water. There are so many water activities in the area, everything from parasailing to jet skiing to scuba diving courses. There are also numerous restaurants on Jumeriah Beach; some of my favorites are La Veranda, Carnevale and Sea Fu. Delicious food with an incredible view of the water!
After spending a few hours at Jumeriah Beach, it was time to regroup and head to dinner at the Burj Al Arab, Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara seafood restaurant. This takes dining to another level – click here to see my experience at Burj Al Arab, the only 7 star hotel in the world.
