6 things to do during your layover in Dubai

Beyond its well-appointed airports, there are countless things to do in Dubai during a layover in this international hub. Want to escape the cacophony of the jetport with a spa experience? Tension-melting treatments await. Looking to exhaust the ankle-biters with an active adventure? Dubai delivers on that front, too. Depending on how long you have to explore the city, different options are possible. Whether it’s 4 hours or 8, read on to find what amazing things Dubai has to offer.

If you have 4 hours

Four hours doesn’t seem like a lot of time, but it’s enough to make it count. Emerge from the airport and take a look around. Dubai’s gleaming waterfront is a sight for sore eyes (especially after a red-eye). Why not head in that direction and embark on an Arabian Gulf cruise with The Yellow Boats? Escorted by a guide on a rigid inflatable boat, motor past the Palm Jumeirah, a manufactured archipelago where luxury hotels dot white-sand beaches and renowned chefs experiment with mouthwatering ingredients at acclaimed eateries every night of the week. It’s a wonderful way to see the city when you don’t have much time to spare.

Want other-worldly city views without having to take to the water? Head to the iconic sail-shaped Burj Al Arab for afternoon tea at the Skyview Bar. Soar to the 27th floor of the exclusive high-rise hotel and indulge in delicate tea sandwiches and flaky scones while sipping champagne. Dubai is known for luxury, after all, so take the chance to grab a little bit for yourself. Panoramic windows invite you to drink in breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf from your perch in the third-tallest hotel in the world.

If you have 6 hours

Lusting after complete relaxation? 6 hours is enough time to treat yourself to a traditional Arab spa treatment that leaves you feeling deeply rejuvenated. What could be better in the middle of a long journey, sitting cramped in an airplane seat. Get a eucalyptus-infused exfoliation to cleanse your skin as you recline on heated, tension-melting marble. Before jetting back to the airport, savor lunch at the spa lounge.

If you’re traveling with children a spa break might not be possible, though. With so many things to do in Dubai, just how does one exhaust the littles in the middle of an epic international journey? An active ice-skating session at the Dubai Ice Rink. Glide and slide across the ice, making fun memories with the family. The rink is ideally situated in the Dubai Mall, and this high-energy adventure lets you stretch your legs and leaves your minis blissfully tuckered out in anticipation of the next flight. Maybe they’ll even sleep through it.

Worked up an appetite? Better than airplane food, snag your kids something tasty from the Dubai Mall Food Court, with menus that appeal to even the pickiest of eaters—from Shake Shack to eateries offering fast, easy, and authentic Arab cuisine. The more adventurous can try something new, while those who just want something comforting and familiar amid the chaos of traveling can find excellent food, too.

If you have 8 hours

If your travel plans allow a bit of wiggle room, consider setting your sights on the local jewel of the Gold Souk. The centuries-old market is a world away from Dubai’s designer boutiques. Book a tour to have a friendly local lead you on a guided tour through the markets of Deira and the Gold and Spice souks, making sure you keep to schedule. Barter for the items that catch your fancy—from swanky threads and precious gems to mouthwatering spices to recreate your favorite Emirati specialties at home. The only problem is fitting everything in your luggage.

If you have additional time to explore Dubai’s history and culture, consider crossing the Dubai Creek to the Al Fahidi Neighborhood, where an 18th-century fort houses artifacts from the United Arab Emirates of yore. Or, continue the retail therapy at the Textile Souk, selecting fabric, clothing, slippers, and other souvenirs you won’t find anywhere else.

With ample time in the City of Superlatives, why not do it all in a single day? A private city tour with OceanAir Travels accomplishes just that. Chat with your chauffeur and select an itinerary based on the attractions that call to you. Love Dubai’s gleaming skyscrapers? Elect to motor past the famous Burj Al Arab and the Burj Khalifa—the world’s tallest structure. Or, visit the Al Fahidi Fort and the Global Village for an introduction to the history and culture of the UAE’s most populous city.

If time allows, pair your avid sightseeing with lunch at the Arabian Tea House for mouthwatering Arab cuisine without the steep prices that define some of the city’s more upscale eateries.

However long you have in Dubai, there’s time to take in the culture and style. Explore the famous markets, from the modern to the classic gold souk and discover souvenirs and gifts. Take the chance to indulge in fun activities and luxury experiences in this deluxe destination. While a fleeting visit isn’t long enough to get the full Dubai experience, it’s more than enough to get a taste. And if you want more? Book a hotel in Dubai today.