24 hours in Dubai

If you’re on a short stopover in Dubai to break up a long flight, our travel experts have picked out their unmissable recommendations for things to do.

"Book a table at Surf Club Dubai, right on Palm West Beach. It’s one of the city’s hottest beach hangouts. Come midweek for the lively Ladies’ Day with free-flowing drinks and chef’s bites, or drop by on Friday for the laid-back Family Affair event. Either way, it’s the place to linger long after sunset."

Rebecca, Personal Travel Expert

"Atlantis The Palm has more than 20 restaurants, including the spectacular Ossiano, where you dine beside the resort’s vast aquarium. I love Bread Street Kitchen & Bar for its relaxed brasserie feel and brilliant sharing plates, then heading down to WHITE Beach for a strawberry mojito and DJ-backed sunset views over the skyline."

Melissa, Personal Travel Expert

"Definitely explore the Gold Souk – it still glitters brighter than anywhere else, and yes, haggling is half the fun. For a true Dubai weekend experience, book a brunch – whether it’s poolside at Shimmers, iconic at Saffron, or a little more refined at Zuma, it’s all best enjoyed with a glass of Champagne in hand. And don’t miss the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (formerly Bastakia Quarter), where art galleries, museums and shaded courtyards give you a glimpse of old Dubai’s charm."

Louise, Kuoni Dubai expert

"Afternoon tea at the Burj Al Arab is still one of those ‘only in Dubai’ experiences. Now hosted in the stylish Gilt bar near the top of the hotel, it comes with incredible views across the Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands. Expect delicate pastries, fine teas and the sort of presentation that makes you reach for your camera before your fork"

Emma, Personal Travel Expert

"Start your day at The Dubai Mall, the world’s largest shopping destination with over 1,200 stores, hundreds of places to eat and even an Olympic-sized ice rink. Inside, you’ll find the entrance to the Burj Khalifa, where you can head up to the ‘At The Top’ observation decks for unbeatable city views. Afterwards, grab a table overlooking the Dubai Fountain – the nightly water and light shows are incredible. I love Thiptara at The Palace Downtown for its Thai food and front-row view of the dancing fountains."

Faye, Dubai Travel Expert