72 Hours in Dubai: A Creative and Cultural Journey
Dubai is a city synonymous with luxury, but beyond its shimmering skyscrapers and sweeping desert dunes lies a thriving creative scene waiting to be explored. In just three days, you can immerse yourself in a world where contemporary art, design, gastronomy, and cultural heritage seamlessly converge. This 72-hour journey will take you through Dubai’s most inspiring spaces, from cutting-edge galleries and heritage districts to exhilarating desert adventures and world-class dining. Prepare to leave with a fresh perspective on the city’s artistic and cultural evolution.
Day 1: Immerse in Art
Check-in: Four Seasons Jumeirah Beach
Your creative journey begins with check-in at the Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach, an oasis of calm between the Arabian Gulf and Dubai’s dynamic skyline. Book a Premier Sea-View Room for uninterrupted views of the turquoise waters. Indulge in Sea Fu’s Far East cuisine as the sun sets, followed by a nightcap at Hendricks Bar.
Concrete is a blank canvas with limitless configurations – image courtesy of OMA
Alserkal Avenue: Dubai’s Cultural Heart
Step into the city’s creative pulse at Alserkal Avenue, a former industrial site turned thriving art hub in the Al Quoz area. This contemporary arts district, set within repurposed warehouses, is home to over 70 art galleries, design studios, and artisanal spaces. Discover international exhibitions at Concrete, an adaptable exhibition space by Rotterdam architects Rem Koolhaas’ OMA, visit A4 Space to meet local artists, and explore thought-provoking installations such as Mary Ellen Carroll’s The Circle Game.
One of the pieces from Inloco’s impressive storage – Photo by Kerry Ocoy
Exploring Al Khayat Art Avenue
A burgeoning creative district, the neighbouring Al Khayat Art Avenue is poised to rival Alserkal Avenue. Explore the beautiful Efie Gallery, a standout for African contemporary art, and Inloco Open Storage, a striking gold shipping container turned exhibition space.
Nightjar Coffee Roasters
Between gallery visits, grab a coffee at Nightjar Coffee Roasters, where award-winning brews meet an effortlessly cool ambiance. With a rotating vinyl selection and a passionate crew behind the counter, it’s more than a café—it’s an experience. The coffee packaging and available branded t-shirts are an artwork in themselves.
Marc Quinn sculpture at Waddington Custom – Photo by Kerry Ocoy
Art & Design Stroll
Before heading for dinner, immerse yourself in the many varied and vibrant art and design boutiques. Visit Waddington Custot for contemporary masterpieces and browse independent concept stores for unique finds; there’s plenty to choose from.
The wonderfully kitch Cinema Akil – Photo by Kerry Ocoy
For a cinematic experience, it’s worth checking out the retro-kitsch Cinema Akil, where old-style furnishings (and even wallpaper) have been rescued from bygone theatres of the past, and arthouse films find their home. Housed within Cinema Akil is Project Chaiwala, an all-day diner for the best (we’re told) chai in Dubai.
Lila Molino in the heart of the creative district – Photo by Kerry Ocoy
Dinner at Lila Molino
For dinner, head to Lila Molino in Warehouse 18, Alserkal Avenue. Helmed by Shaw Lash, a disciple of the legendary ethno-gastronomer Diana Kennedy, this Mexican eatery serves authentic dishes made with premium ingredients. Opt for Chicken & Green Chile Tacos paired with a refreshing Lila-Chelada—a non-alcoholic beer infused with housemade chile sauce and lime.
Evening at Mercury Rooftop
After a day of artistic exploration, wind down with a cocktail (and a snack if you can manage) at Mercury Rooftop. Set between the glistening sea and the striking skyline, this elevated social dining destination offers the perfect setting for an elegant nightcap. Graze on seasonal dishes made for sharing beneath the stars before retreating to your hotel for a well-earned rest. Tomorrow is an early start!
Day 2: Hot Air Balloons & Heritage
Getting the Balloons ready for flight – Photo by Kerry Ocoy
Sunrise with Hero Balloons Dubai
Rise before dawn for an unforgettable hot air balloon adventure over the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. Float above the golden dunes as the sun rises, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink. Experience a mesmerising falconry display (our falcon Ziggy was a stunning bird of prey) with expert handlers showcasing the agility and grace of these majestic birds in mid-flight.
Ziggy the Falcon flies with the Balloon guests – Photo by Kerry Ocoy
As you begin to descend you might be lucky enough to spot Dubai’s national animal; the Arabian oryx from the air before it is time to savour a Michelin-starred breakfast at a Royal Desert Retreat, complete with gourmet dishes crafted from locally sourced ingredients, all while soaking in the tranquil beauty of the desert landscape.
A traditional camel ride after breakfast is not for the faint-hearted – Photos by Kerry Ocoy
Camel Ride Across the Dunes
After breakfast, embark on a traditional camel ride through the golden sands of the desert. Led by expert Bedouin guides, this timeless mode of travel offers a unique perspective on Dubai’s stunning natural landscape. As you sway gently atop these ‘ships of the desert,’ take in the vast, serene expanse and learn about the region’s rich nomadic heritage. For the camel riding novice – getting on the camel may seem like a breeze, however getting off requires some fairly good balance and a pretty strong hold.
Gold, spices and camel milk gelato; you can purchase all sorts – Photo by Kerry Ocoy
A lunchtime Middle Eastern Food Tour in Deira
Head to Old Baladiya Street in Deira, a revitalised heritage corridor lined with souks and hidden culinary gems. Stop by Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant, a Michelin-recognised spot serving authentic Emirati cuisine, and cool off with Camel Milk Gelato infused with saffron and pistachio. There’s plenty of culinary treats to spend your money here; from the best saffron and spices to covered dates and arabic sweets.
Day 3: Beachside Bliss & Culinary Delights
The outstanding pool view at the Banyan Tree – Photo by Kerry Ocoy
Banyan Tree Spa: The Rainforest Experience
Following an early start the day before it’s time to unwind at the newly opened Banyan Tree Spa on Bluewaters Island. The Rainforest Experience is an immersive hydrothermal journey through saunas, steam rooms, and hydrotherapy pools, designed to rejuvenate both body and mind. If you’d rather keep dry then the sound healing and meditation session proved to be an easy way to fully switch off, calm down and take in the sounds and vibrations of the singing bowls.
Afternoon at Bâoli Beach Club
Now you are ready for the Dubai beach club experience at Bâoli Dubai, a chic beachfront retreat inspired by the French Riviera. Lounge by the pool, sip handcrafted cocktails, and savor a Mediterranean-meets-East Asian menu while live music sets the scene. With its stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, Bâoli attracts a diverse crowd, making it an inviting spot whether you’re a seasoned beach club enthusiast or a first-time visitor.
An early dinner at Sea Fu
With its prime location overlooking the sea, Sea Fu at Four Seasons offers an exceptional Asian-inspired seafood experience. The menu boasts an array of exquisite dishes, with the Soy Marinated Black Cod, served alongside Miso Aubergine and Yuzu, standing out as a highlight. Paired with an indulgent selection of sushi and sashimi platters, this dining experience is a must for seafood lovers.
A must-do experience – Photo by Kerry Ocoy
Fused flew to Dubai direct with Emirates. For information on flight times and schedules see more information here.
To find out more about places to stay, attractions and venues see Visit Dubai.
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