Dubai Layover Tour: Explore Top Attractions

Make the most of your layover in Dubai with a private tour of the city’s historic and modern highlights. Explore local souks, ride a traditional Abra boat, and visit iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah.

Duration: 6 hours
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • Dubai Spice Souk - Dubai’s Spice Souk is a vibrant, aromatic, and sensory delight. Discover new flavors and recipes as you explore this traditional spice market in Dubai’s heritage area.

Immerse yourself in the nostalgic atmosphere as you encounter mounds of fragrant herbs and spices, spilling from large baskets at every corner. Spices are available both by weight and in packets. Like other souks, buying in bulk can save you money – and vendors expect you to haggle.

  • Dubai Gold Souk - No trip to Dubai is complete without visiting the renowned Gold Souk, one of the oldest and most captivating traditional markets in the emirate. Whether you’re browsing or searching for even the smallest piece of precious gold, stroll through the glittering bazaar to find designs from around the world crafted in various carats.
  • Deira Old Souk Abra Station - Abra Creek Crossing
    Cross Dubai Creek by Abra

The bustling Dubai Creek has been the lifeblood of locals for generations, serving as the favored site for early settlers and the city’s first port and pearling industry. Today, it remains a lively spot, attracting visitors year-round. For just AED1 (US$0.27), you can board one of the many traditional ferry boats, known as abras, to cross the creek that separates Bur Dubai from Deira, Dubai’s city center; the journey is one of the most affordable yet authentic experiences in the city.

An abra, meaning “to cross” in Arabic, runs every few minutes throughout the day between four stations along Dubai Creek. The first route goes from Deira Old Souk Abra Station (near the Spice Souk) to Bur Dubai Abra Station (west of the Textile Souk). The second, busier route, runs continuously from Al Sabkha Abra Station (just southwest of Baniyas Square) to Dubai Old Souk Abra Station.

  • Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood - Discover what life in Old Dubai was like during the mid-19th century at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Located along Dubai Creek, this district is a key heritage site with much of the original infrastructure preserved and intact.

The traditional wind towers – constructed from sandstone, teak, gypsum, palm wood, and sandalwood – represent only a small part of Al Fahidi’s history. Each alley, twisting pathway, and breezy tower tells a story of life before the seven emirates.

Follow the winding streets to discover a range of cultural activities, museums, art galleries, special events, and traditional food. Check out Dubai Calendar so that you never miss an event in the Neighbourhood – particularly Sikka Art Fair and Heritage Week.

  • Dubai Frame - The Dubai Frame is one of the city’s most famous attractions for visitors and residents alike. Much like the Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab’s iconic structures, the building’s landmark location in Zabeel Park provides panoramic views of the city.

At 150m tall and 93m wide with a bridge connecting the two towers, Dubai Frame has a unique concept to its structure. Resembling a picture frame, Dubai’s historic district can be seen to the north while the south provides breathtaking vistas of the modern cityscape.

  • Museum Of The Future - One of Dubai’s most famous landmarks, the Museum of the Future (MOTF) takes pride of place along the city’s superhighway, Sheikh Zayed Road. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation and launched on 22 February 2022, the museum explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using science and technology.

Termed a ‘living museum’, it incorporates elements of traditional exhibitions, immersive theatre, and themed attractions, allowing visitors to look beyond the present and towards the future’s limitless possibilities. Furthering a global intellectual movement, it’s also the headquarters for the city’s ‘Great Arab Minds’ initiative that aims to identify 1,000 exceptional Arab talents across key fields.

  • The Dubai Mall - Wander through the world’s largest shopping, entertainment, and leisure destination

Dubai Mall is the world’s largest destination for shopping, entertainment, and leisure, located next to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Featuring over 1,200 retail stores, two major department stores, and hundreds of food and beverage outlets, Dubai Mall covers more than 1 million sqm – an area equivalent to 200 football pitches.

For lovers of high fashion, over 70 signature outlets beckon your attention, including retailers such as Bloomingdale’s and Galeries Lafayette, the first in the Middle East. For haute couture, head to Fashion Avenue and the latest collections from world-famous brands such as Versace, Burberry, and more. You can also find the finest gold jewelry in the Gold Souk as well as the latest in footwear at Level Shoes.

  • The Dubai Fountain - Marvel at the beauty of the dancing fountains

Witness the tallest performing fountain in the world during your visit to Downtown Dubai. The Dubai Fountain offers a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to immerse yourself in a captivating water, music, and light experience.

Submerged within the 30-acre Burj Lake, at the foot of The Dubai Mall, powerful water jets are laid out strategically over an area the length of two football pitches. The fountain jets up to 22,000 gallons of water as high as 140m in the air at any one time.

  • United Arab Emirates - Discover the world’s tallest building at 828m

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and a global icon. Truly a feat of engineering, the building represents the conceptual heart and soul of the city of Dubai.

At 828m tall, this magnificent structure is located next to Dubai Mall and has drawn visitors from all over the world since opening in 2010. The unmatched Burj Khalifa view can be taken in from not one but two observation decks – the two-story At the Top on the 124th and 125th floors, as well as one of the world’s highest observation decks (555m) on the 148th floor.

  • Burj Al Arab - The world’s first seven-star hotel, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is an icon of Dubai that redefines modern Arabian luxury.

  • The Pointe - Shop, stroll, and celebrate special moments on Palm Jumeirah

Make your way to The Pointe – a retail and entertainment destination in Dubai that’s sure to impress. Located more than four kilometers from Dubai’s natural coastline on Palm Jumeirah island, this leisure destination offers stunning views and irresistible options to shop, dine, and play.

With more than 50 restaurants – including prime venues like Meshico or Al Safadi and top-quality coffee shops like %Arabica – as well as boutiques and attractions to explore, the hours will fly by. Head over and pick up unique souvenirs, let the little ones make the most of the kids’ entertainment areas, or dine at waterfront restaurants.

  • Dubai Marina - Soaring skyscrapers, watersports, family fun, and fabulous flavors – there’s something for everyone at Dubai Marina.

Voted one of the 50 coolest neighborhoods in the world by the global editors of Time Out, Dubai Marina is not only one of the city’s favorite social destinations for sun-soaked beach days and nights out – but also has a community feel which makes it popular among young professionals and families alike.

Dubai Marina is a waterfront city, the emerald-green waters framed by some of the tallest – not to mention some of the most architecturally impressive – residential towers in the world. And just next door is Jumeirah Beach Residence – a neighborhood in its own right, and the gateway from Dubai Marina to the beach.

  • Textile Souk - The Textile Souk is located right next to Abra station, offering some of the best colors and designs in Dubai.
What's Included
  • Professional guide & Separate Driver
  • Entry/Admission - Bur Dubai Abra Station
  • All taxes, fees and handling charges
  • Bottled water
  • Pick up & Drop off Anywhere in Dubai
  • Transport by air-conditioned car or Mini Van
What's Not Included
  • Entry/Admission - Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, museum of the future
  • Food And Drinks
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

Dubai is indeed a beautiful city in the world, welcoming visitors with stunning beaches and break-record attractions. Often referred to as the ‘Pearl of the Middle East’, during this Personalized Layover tour, you can experience a mixture of its rich history and contemporary landmarks. Witness how locals shop for spices and gold at local markets, embark on a traditional Abra boat ride in Bur Dubai, and explore the Al Fahidi Historical Village reflecting locals’ past lifestyle. Also, sightsee Modern Dubai, including Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Frame, Burj Al Arab, and Palm Jumeirah, both day and night.

Should you find yourself on a stopover at Dubai International Airport for some hours, seize the opportunity to view the highlights of this beautiful city instead of waiting for your next flight at the airport.

So transform your layover into an exciting adventure. Tour Dubai’s foremost attractions during a quick Layover, complete with airport pickup and drop-off— a perfect way to experience Dubai’s highlights.

Location
Airport Terminal 3
Dubai airport has 3 terminals. The meetings points within the terminals are: Terminal 1: at the main Spinneys main in arrival hall 2; Terminal 02: at Costa Coffee in the arrivals hall; Terminal 03: beside exit #2, opposite Starbucks and the Dubai Metro station in the main arrival hall Exit no 2.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
5.0
(6 Ratings)
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1 star
Resort30056568754
Jun 15, 2024
Great Dubai Layover tour - Ehsaan is an amazing guide and trip advisor. He was extremely helpful and supportive during my parents' tour of Dubai. His knowledge is extensive, providing us with detailed information on booking tickets and always giving the right advice. Ehsaan was very flexible with pick-up times, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. I highly recommend booking a tour directly with him for a fantastic Dubai experience.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
96wajida
Jun 2, 2024
Brilliant guide in my whole life. - Malik is an exceptional tour guide who effortlessly blends historical insight with entertaining anecdotes, making every moment of the tour engaging and memorable. His passion for the subject matter shines through, keeping guests captivated from start to finish. With Malik, you're not just sightseeing; you're embarking on a journey through time and culture. Highly recommended for an unforgettable experience!💕🥰
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Victoriamb3730ng
Jun 1, 2024
Night tour - Ehsan is charming, very dedicated to his work, extensive 3-hour visit to the main sites. Boat ride. Taco organized for 7 people. Very good organization.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Papanasa_k
May 28, 2024
Recommended - Guided tour to old Dubai and shopping experience and key tour attractions in short span. Guide is knowledgeable and accommodative.
Review provided by Viator
Davidk2536co
May 14, 2024
Best tour ever i had 5-star for Malik - "Thank you for an amazing tour experience! Your knowledge, passion, and professionalism made the trip unforgettable. Highly recommended!"
Review provided by Tripadvisor
256luzmariab
Feb 24, 2024
Excellent service - Our guide Ehsan was an excellent host! Everything was so organized that we visited all the emblematic places in Dubai in less than 12 hours! Having taken this tour with them allowed us to make the wait for our plane connection to return to Mexico light. It was a pleasant surprise that Ehsan spoke very fluent Spanish. Thank you very much for our tour!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
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