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8 Hours plus layover in Dubai? Here is what you can do
Transit visa for UAE is not hard to acquire but the regulations and requirements are specific so you must plan well in advance in case you want to get out of the airport. UAE airlines issue a 96-hour transit visa which is valid for 14 days from the date of issuance.
The best thing about Dubai International Airport is that it’s located in the heart of the city, so it is very easy to move through and from the airport.
The Metro:
Terminals 1 and 3 are connected to the Dubai Metro. The metro station is a very quick walk from the airport arrival hall, making it very convenient for tourists to move around Dubai with affordable transportation. Get on the red line, which runs every 10 minutes.
Dubai Taxi:
Taxis are available on all UAE airports. You can simply take a taxi from any terminal and go wherever you want. Depending on the time of the day, taxi should be your fastest mode of transportation and a very convenient one.
Uber:
If you have the app, this could be your best option. This saves you time and money if you have a discount on your Uber account. The price of booking an Uber or using a normal taxi is more or less the same in UAE.
Easily accessible through the Dubai Metro red line, this should be your first stop. The best views of the Burj are from Dubai Mall. You may also want to go inside the Burj Khalifa to the observation deck to see the entire city, but this would require at least a couple of hours, so manage your time accordingly.
While checking out Burj Khalifa, make sure you are there long enough to see the Dubai Mall Fountains. It’s a favourite go-to spot among residents and tourists, the Dubai Mall fountain is an unforgettable experience that really just moves everyone because of its beauty, synchronized dance and songs.
Your next stop should be the Dubai Canal. Take your time along the beautifully illuminated walkways and pedestrian bridges that overlook the Dubai water canal and enjoy the sight of the mechanical waterfall.
Catch the sunrise or sunset
If you want to capture a photo of one of the best sunrises or sunsets then this is your chance. It is also a fun way to spend your short layover, trying out delicious food and enjoying the incredible view. Kite beach is one of the many places you can visit to catch a mesmerizing sunset or sunrise.
Check out Old Dubai: Gold Souk in Deira
The Dubai Gold Souk is a traditional market in the heart of old Dubai by the creek. This market mainly sells gold, silver and precious stones. You’ll find the odd seller of handbags here and there, but this is the best place to buy gold in the UAE. The souk is home to over 300 retailers. Some have been there for over 40 years, while others have just set up shops a few years ago. It is a must visit for tourists who want to see more than just the glitz and glamour of the UAE.
Eat some real Dubai street food: Shawarma
One of the most loved street food is shawarma, with multiple choices in the city, Al Mallah is a popular choice for Shawarma lovers. The staff are friendly and the service is great. They also serve a variety of different foods, if you want to try something different. Head to the Satwa location to be extra close to the airport.
Hit the beach: Nikki Beach Dubai
Nikki Beach Dubai offers a lazy day by the sea. The 14,000 square meters property on Pearl Jumeirah can seat 750 guests. The property is modelled after the same modern, all white look and feel of all other Nikki Beach locations across the globe, and features cutting-edge architecture and design.
Dubai Frame is a landmark that overlooks the entire city. The unique architecture of the building allows you to enjoy 360 degrees views of both old and new Dubai.
Explore La Mer
Get to La Mer's beach and enjoy a mini break. Rent a cabana with views of the Arabian Gulf, sun yourself on our comfortable daybeds, take a cooling dip in the sea, or try your hand at paddle boarding, surfing or a range of other water sports.
