Plan a Trip to Dubai | The Ritz-Carlton

Planning Your Trip

The exponential growth of Dubai in such a short time has turned this small city in the United Arab Emirates into a fabulous, powerhouse destination at the top of any world traveler’s bucket list. Below, a packing guide for your one-of-a-kind trip.

Planning Your Trip

What To Pack

Bring a camera. A trip to Dubai is a unique, once-in-a-lifetime experience. And if the city’s rapid pace of change is any indication, what you see today may be completely different (or bigger) the next time you’re here. Also, consider buying a travel guide on the city to delve deeper into its fascinating origins.

Beach Vacation

Yes, it’s possible to spend an entire week just enjoying the pristine white sands of the Arabian Gulf. It doesn’t hurt that The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai has one of the most coveted private beaches in town.
Bring swimsuits, flip-flops and cover-ups. As long as you’re staying within the resorts, there are no specific dress customs to abide by.
Dubai has a hot desert climate. Prioritize sun safety by packing sunglasses, large-brimmed hats and plenty of sunscreen.
Take advantage of the sunrise yoga classes offered every Saturday just off the beach. Pack yoga clothes and other athletic gear.

Exploring the City

Prepare to witness jaw-dropping feats of manpower everywhere you look. From the towering Burj Khalifa to the sprawling Palm Jumeirah island. Take the city’s high temperatures into account and dress for ease and versatility.
You’ll need comfortable sandals or sneakers while you’re out and about.
Dubai is one of the most liberal and westernized cities in the Middle East, but overly revealing clothes are still frowned upon. Leave the short shorts and crop tops at home and don’t forget to bring a shawl to cover your shoulders and hair when entering mosques.
The nightlife in Dubai is legendary. Ladies, bring your heels, cocktail dresses and statement jewelry. Gents, throw in a good pair of dress shoes, nice slacks and button-down shirts.

Day Trips

You can’t come to Dubai without going on a desert safari, where you can sand board, ride a camel and take in nature’s wonders.
Fight the shade-less heat in lightweight, breathable cotton and plenty of coverage (showing less skin will actually keep you cooler).
Deserts are cold when the sun goes down. Bring a sweater or sweatshirt.
A pair of sturdy hiking boots will help you navigate the unsteady terrain of the dunes.

Planning Your Trip

What To Reserve

With the world’s tallest tower (Burj Khalifa), its biggest mall (Dubai Mall), its biggest indoor theme park (IMG Worlds of Adventure) and its largest man-made island (Palm Jumeirah), Dubai is a city of staggering superlatives. Its ambition and extravagance also creates a place of great food and many things to see.

Dining Reservations

Dubai has an impressive spectrum of cuisine from all over the world thanks to its ultra-diverse demographic (only 15 percent of the population are Emiratis — the rest are expats). Head to La Petite Maison for superb French fare and to Al Hadheerah for traditional Arabian cuisine, where your meal will be accompanied by belly dancers and entertainers. For the ultimate in Dubai decadence, book a table at At.mosphere on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa — you’ll literally be on top of the world.

Spa Appointments

Need a break from the dizzying excess? Retreat to The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Dubai and book a treatment (or two) that blends Eastern and European techniques. A hot stone or deep muscle massage will loosen overworked muscles, while a C+C Vitamin Scrub, which uses vitamins C and E, plus a sugar exfoliant, will instantly bring the glow back to your skin. Rich minerals and natural ingredients from the seven seas are used in the Arabia Felix, which starts with a foot scrub and ends with a luxurious full-body massage. If you’re feeling extra indulgent, book one of the three treatment rooms that have their own terrace

Museum Tickets & Cultural Sights

Start with a history lesson by visiting Dubai’s Old Quarter, where you might cross the creek on an abra (a traditional water taxi) and do some bargaining in the spice and gold souks. Then do a 180-degree switch by ascending the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building and the city’s crown jewel. From here, you’ll get a bird’s-eye view of the architectural masterpieces being built for the 2020 World Expo. After the sun sets, head down to the Dubai Fountain, a massive choreographed fountain system on the man-made Burj Khalifa lake, and be swayed by the beautiful show.

Day Trips

A desert safari is a must while you’re in Dubai. Along with activities like dune bashing, sand skiing and camel riding, you’ll also gain a deeper understanding of Bedouin culture and history. Plus, the sunsets here are magical. Also, the capital of UAE, Abu Dhabi, is less than two hours away and well worth a day trip. Here, you can enjoy a quieter atmosphere with long walks on the beaches and a meditative stroll through the magnificent, gold-laden Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. And don’t miss the Louvre Abu Dhabi, which opened in 2017.

Planning Your Trip

Itineraries

Famous for its sleek skyline and the allure of its flashy nightlife, a closer look will prove that Dubai is as much a multicultural community as it is a luxury retail destination. From the cutting-edge technology used to build the Burj Kalifa and the city’s decadent dining scene to the ancient Bedouin culture and stunning natural beauty, Dubai is truly a jewel in the desert. Explore Dubai’s cultural mosaic through the lens of world-class museums, fine dining and innovative technologies, with The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai as your luxe home away from home.

24 Hours In

In a short time, Dubai has transformed itself from a sleepy and humble fishing town into what is arguably the world’s most glamorous city. Dubai is home to the tallest building in the world, the biggest mall in the world and the largest man-made island in the world. But in juxtaposition to its hypermodernity, parts of Dubai still retain remembrances of its rich heritage in the form of bustling souks, historical districts and traditional architecture.

Perfect Weekend

There is no shortage of things to do in Dubai, but two days is just enough time to experience all this bustling city has to offer. From exploring the souks in Old Dubai to zooming to the top of the world’s tallest building to enjoying some sun on the beach, there is truly something for everyone. Get ready for some adventure, a bit of history and a lot of delicious food.

Tall highball glass with bright orange drink and pineapple wedge garnish

Lazy river feature with a bridge and waterfall, all of which is hemmed in by landscaping and lounge chairs

Day 1

Morning

Walk the Walk. The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai is conveniently on Jumeirah Beach Residence, making this beachfront road the perfect place to begin your day of exploration. Take your time wandering through the shops and ogling at the unobstructed view of the metallic skyline before grabbing a quick bite at one of the strip’s many cafés.

Midday

Miracle Garden. Leave it to Dubai to grow a lush garden in the middle of the desert. With over 109 million planted flowers, the Miracle Garden is one of the most extravagant spectacles in the city. The floral structures change shapes every season, but some iconic past formations include cars, castles and windmills.

A Different Kind of Mall. If shopping is your favorite pastime, peruse the 1,200 stores at Dubai Mall. Once you’re satisfied with your purchases, head to Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Make sure to pass through the incredible transparent walking tunnel surrounded by the world’s largest collection of sand tiger sharks.

Afternoon

Explore Al Quoz. This former industrial district is now home to Alserkal Avenue, the epicenter of Dubai’s contemporary art scene. While in the neighborhood, stop by the Antique Museum to sort through a diverse collection of gifts and souvenirs. If all the shopping leaves you hungry, look no further than Tom & Serg, a local favorite serving up specialty coffees and gourmet food.

A Tall Order. It’s time to ascend the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Buy your tickets and zoom up to the 148th observatory deck for spectacular views. While nestled among the clouds, sit down for lunch at the Armani/Deli. The restaurant specializes in Italian fare, so don’t miss out on the delicious offerings at the antipasto buffet.

Evening

A Sunset Sail. Admire the beauty of the Palm Jumeirah archipelago from the yacht of your choice. A variety of tour providers allows you to customize your excursion — choose from a peaceful journey to a thrilling adventure as you sail around the sea.

Cabana Nights. Dine under the stars in a Bedouin-inspired cabana at Amaseena, the outdoor Arabic buffet at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai. Start with a variety of fresh mezze dishes before moving on to the mixed grill platter. End the night with a cocktail and enjoy the live music and belly dancing performance.

Day 2

Morning

Early Classes. The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai offers many morning activities for guests to enjoy. From yoga and Pilates to sea kayaking and kite flying, check with the hotel concierge to see what’s scheduled during your stay.

Higher and Higher. If you think you couldn’t get higher than the top of the Burj Khalifa, think again. Start your day with a thrill by hopping onto a helicopter for a scenic tour of Dubai from above. Whiz along the coastline for aerial views of the Palm Jumeirah and the sparkling turquoise waters of the Arabian Sea.

Midday

Hit the Slopes. At Ski Dubai in the Mall of Emirates, step into below-zero temperatures (about -2 C, or 28 F), strap on your skis and get into
a chairlift for a trip down a slope covered in artificial snow. Complete with cozy cabins and a café offering hot chocolate, experiencing this winter wonderland in the middle of the desert is a uniquely Dubai experience.

Afternoon

Go Back in Time. To get some perspective on how quickly Dubai has grown in a short time, pay a visit to the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort, the city’s oldest building. Visitors can explore the artifacts and displays that explain how a humble fishing town in the desert has transformed into a futuristic metropolis.

To Market. After exiting the museum, visit the nearby textile souk to admire the beautiful fabrics and clothing, and then take an abra (wooden boat) across Dubai Creek to visit the spice and gold souks. Get lost in the smells and sights of the winding alleys and enjoy a bit of aimless wandering.

Evening

Sunsets is in Session. Head back to The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai to enjoy the Sunset Session at La Baie, a casually sophisticated indoor/outdoor venue with great views and comfortable seating. Grab a lounger or a private cabana and enjoy a cocktail or shisha while relaxing after an eventful day.

Get Social. For your last meal, head to Social by Heinz Beck, a contemporary Italian restaurant on Palm Jumeirah. The world-renowned chef brings his inventive and innovative culinary techniques to Dubai, transforming simple ingredients into something entirely new and fresh. Whether it’s gnocchi with green pea foam or veal served with a peach coulis, whatever you chose, your taste buds will be delighted.

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Al Mamsha Street, Jumeirah Beach Residences,

Dubai, United Arab Emirates

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