Dubai : An Unforgetable Journey with Family and Friends

Dubai : An Unforgetable Journey with Family and Friends

From December 1st to December 7th, I embarked on a deeply meaningful journey to Dubai with my mother and sister. This trip was incredibly special as it was their first time traveling abroad. After the loss of my father, my mother often dreamed of visiting Dubai, a city she had explored extensively through YouTube videos. Seeing her excitement and joy as she experienced Dubai in person was unforgettable. To make this trip even more memorable, I reunited with a close college friend after seven years. He generously took a day off to guide us, making our visit even more enriching and enjoyable. Here is a personalized travel guide based on this unforgettable experience, complete with unique tips and heartfelt moments.

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Do You Need a Visa to Visit Dubai?

Travelers from many countries, including the US, UK, and EU, can visit Dubai without needing a visa for short stays. It’s always best to confirm the requirements specific to your nationality before traveling.

How to Get to Dubai?

We flew via Air India, but airlines like Emirates, Etihad, and Qatar Airways also offer excellent services and competitive deals. Emirates frequently features offers, including free layovers in Dubai—a fantastic way to explore the city if you’re transiting to another destination.

Budget Tip: Subscribe to airline newsletters and book during sales to secure the best fares.

When Is the Best Time to Visit?

The winter months from November to March are the most comfortable for exploring Dubai, with pleasant temperatures ranging from 20–26°C (68–78°F). However, this is also the peak tourist season. Summers (June to August) are much quieter but come with extreme heat, often exceeding 40°C (104°F).

Budget Tip: Consider visiting in April or October for more affordable prices while still enjoying good weather.

Where to Stay in Dubai?

We stayed at Swissotel Al Murooj, a luxurious hotel near Downtown Dubai. It was a splurge for this special trip, but it provided us with exceptional comfort. Budget-conscious travelers can find excellent options in Deira or Al Barsha, which offer affordable accommodations with good connectivity to major attractions.

Budget Tip: Look for hotels near metro stations for easy and economical access to the city’s highlights.

Getting Around Dubai

Dubai offers several transportation options, including a clean and efficient Metro system, taxis, and ride-hailing services like Uber and Careem.

Budget Tip: Purchase a Nol Card for discounted public transportation. Plan your travel outside peak hours to avoid traffic delays, especially during Dubai’s work week (Sunday to Thursday).

Day 1: Arrival and Check-In

We arrived at Dubai International Airport in the evening and headed straight to our hotel. As we drove through the city, my mother was mesmerized by the sparkling skyline she had admired online for years. It was heartwarming to see her excitement.

Quip Tip – Use Careems app for taxi – very user friendly and not very expensive.

Day 2: Exploring Dubai from the Heights

Our day started with a visit to the Sky View Observatory, where we soaked in breathtaking panoramic views of the city. Later, we ascended the Burj Khalifa to explore its 124th, 125th, and 148th floors. The day concluded at Dubai Mall, where we enjoyed free attractions like the Aquarium’s outer display and the Dubai Fountain show.

Budget Tip: Book Burj Khalifa tickets online in advance for as low as AED 159. Enjoy free attractions like the Dubai Fountain, which are just as magical.

Dubai: Burj Khalifa Level 148 & Sky Views Entry Ticket Combo

Discover Dubai's stunning vistas from the Burj Khalifa's exclusive observation deck on Level 148. Skip the lines for swift access, and enjoy thrilling activities at Sky Views Dubai before or after.

Day 3: Discovering Nature and Culture

The Miracle Garden, with its vibrant floral displays, was our first stop. My mother’s amazement was evident as she took countless photos. In the evening, we visited the Global Village, where she marveled at cultural pavilions and live performances from around the world.

Budget Tip: Entry to the Miracle Garden costs AED 75, and the Global Village is just AED 18. Use public transport or shared rides to save on travel costs.

Dubai: Miracle Garden Entry Ticket with Hotel Transfer

Explore the world's largest flower garden, Miracle Garden in Dubai, with an entry ticket and hotel transfer. Visit the floating lady, walk around the Smurfs Village, and see over 50 million flowers.

Day 4: Reconnecting with a Friend and fulfilling my dream of skydive

This day was incredibly special as I reunited with my college friend after seven years. He spent the day showing us around Dubai Frame, adding a personal touch to our trip and also took us to Dubai Outlet mall (Secret luxury brands had up to 50% off) 

Another important thing that happened on Day 4 was, I fulfilled my 13 years old dream to skydive over the breathtaking landscapes. 

Budget Tip: For thrilling yet affordable activities, try zip lining at Dubai Marina or dune bashing in the desert.

Dubai: Tandem Skydive Experience at The Palm

Admire Dubai from a new perspective and the best visibility possible, whilst falling at 120mph. Fly up to 13,000ft into Dubai's sky before free falling for nearly 60 seconds. Feel an incredible adrenaline rush as you enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Day 5: A Night in the Desert

A desert safari awaited us on the fifth day. From camel rides and dune bashing to enjoying a belly dance performance under the stars, this Arabian adventure was unforgettable. My mother especially loved the camel ride and the vibrant cultural performances.

Budget Tip: Group packages for desert safaris often start at AED 150 per person. Look for deals on platforms like Klook or GetYourGuide.

Dubai: Safari, Quad Bike, Camel Ride, and Buffet Dinner

Discover the beautiful and mysterious Lahbab Desert on this tour that has a little bit of everything.

Day 6: Souks, Beaches, and Heritage

We began the day at the Gold Souk, where my mother admired the glittering displays of jewelry. Later, we relaxed at JBR Beach and visited the Dubai Frame, which offers a unique perspective of old and new Dubai. In the evening, we explored the heritage district of Al Seef before ending the day with a dhow cruise dinner along Dubai Creek.

Budget Tip: Al Seef is free to explore, and a dhow cruise dinner can cost as little as AED 120 per person if booked in advance.

Day 7: Saying Goodbye

As we prepared to leave, my mother couldn’t stop reminiscing about the wonderful moments. She described the trip as a dream come true, and I felt immense gratitude for being able to make it happen. Reconnecting with my friend added another layer of joy, making this journey truly unforgettable.

Additional Tips for First-Time Visitors

  1. What to Wear: Dress modestly in public places. Swimwear is acceptable at beaches and pools. Carry a scarf for visits to mosques.

  2. Food and Drinks: Dubai’s cuisine is a delightful mix of flavors. Alcohol is available only in licensed venues, and public drunkenness is prohibited.

  3. Free Attractions: Don’t miss the Dubai Fountain, Al Seef district, and public beaches.

  4. Shopping: Bargain at souks and look for deals during mall sales.

  5. Avoid Tourist Traps: Research reviews to avoid overcrowded or overpriced attractions.

This article is more than a travelogue; it’s a celebration of family, friendship, and unforgettable memories. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker, a history enthusiast, or a food lover, Dubai promises a journey filled with wonder and joy.