Last Updated on August 17, 2020 by hungryoungwoman
This one is for the adventurous ones! Dubai is not just about cruising expensive cars, roaming the desert, or staying in a tall skyscraper, it’s much more than that. And, it sure is a fantastic place for anyone who wants to spend a short weekend filled with adventure for just 2 days in Dubai. So, you’re thinking about what to do in Dubai for 2 days that I will remember? Then, read below!
Disclaimer: Hubby and I are not one of those people who only look for adventurous activities when we travel. Heck, we haven’t even completed some things from this list of fun and best things to do in Dubai in 2 days. But, we’ve had friends who did and shared their experiences with us.
So, we thought, why not go and write this two days in Dubai post helping other thrill-seekers have some fun too, right? 😀
Thinking of staying longer? Read this itinerary for Dubai 7 days!
This includes
How to Spend an Adventurous 2 Days in Dubai
Day 1 –Start your morning with a thrilling zip line ride in Dubai!
Dubai Marina is one of Dubai main attractions and you will be starting your 2 day Dubai trip here. You will start the zip line from Dubai Marina Mall. Start your morning with a stroll around the mall and breakfast at some of the nice restaurants there. I suggest Shakespeare & Co or Le Pain Quotidien. Both offer good breakfast options.
If you’re feeling a little queasy, it will be best to lunch after your ride!
It’s super easy to book your time and date (I recommend not going on weekends simply because it will get crowded), slots start from around 3.30 pm so choose one according to your convenience.
The best part is that you get a video and pictures of your ride and get to keep it as souvenirs. There is also an option of zip lining with your partner/friend which makes the experience even better!
Click here to look at time slots, prices, and booking dates
Getting there (https://goo.gl/maps/mFtkV1az3swcd5ad8): Dubai Marina Mall is super easy to reach through the metro and tram as there is a stop right in front of the mall. If you’re getting a taxi, any taxi driver knows this place as it is one of the best malls in Dubai
Option 1: Dubai Marina Speedboat
After lunching at the mall, get ready for another one of the top things to do in Dubai – Dubai Marina Speedboat Tour. I extremely loved this tour as you can see some of the marvelous attractions in Dubai on the ride like Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach, Palm Jumeirah hotels, Burj Al Arab, and Atlantis (one of my favorite hotels in Dubai btw!)
The ride is for approximately 90 minutes and there are lots of photo opportunities you get on the way. The guide is also super helpful to take pictures of you and there is a live commentary about all the top spots in Dubai during the tour.
The Burj Al Arab and Atlantis are some of the most instagrammable places in Dubai that are very difficult to get good pictures of, so use this opportunity!
I recommend booking the evening tour just before the sun sets so you can also get a chance to see the beautiful skies 🙂
Click here to look at time slots, reviews, prices, and booking dates
Getting there (https://goo.gl/maps/4HT1MTGauk2f6LQr8):Â It’s easier to take a taxi from Dubai Marina Mall and ask them to drop you at Al Majar Tower. If you’re driving, you can park your car at Dubai Marina Mall parking (3 hours free)
Option 2: JetSki in Dubai
Another option for your Dubai itinerary 2 days is Jetskiing. you have options to choose a 30 minutes, 60 minutes, 90 minutes, or 120 minutes ride depending on your budget and time.
Each ride will show you more places in Dubai depending on the time you’ve chosen. I recommend choosing the 60 minutes tour so you can see Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab.
Again, choose the evening slot about 4-5 pm which will suit perfectly after your morning at ziplining in Dubai Marina and you will also get a chance to experience the sunset.
Click here to look at time slots, reviews, prices, and booking dates
Getting there: Pick up and drop off is included in the package so ask your driver to pick you up from your preferred location.
Flying Cup Experience in Dubai
Finally, end your first day in Dubai in the skies! I experienced the Flying Cup experience and it is so beautiful at night. The package includes some refreshments (cookie/popcorn and a hot drink) too so you can sit back and enjoy the view from the top.
The entire experience is about 30 minutes but be careful to wear closed shoes so you don’t have them falling from a height of 40 meters!
I felt it was a bit chilly at night so wear appropriate clothing or keep a shawl in your purse to wrap around yourself.
Click here to look at time slots, reviews, prices, and booking dates
Getting there (https://goo.gl/maps/tCZv3ZeBEVDLoF5i7): Flying Cup Dubai is located at The Beach, JBR which is one of Dubai famous landmarks. There are tons of restaurants to have dinner after your experience and also shopping facilities. Want to catch a movie? Roxy Cinemas will be playing the newest flick!
Day 2 – Option 1: Skydiving in Dubai
Start your morning with one of the most sought after activities to do in Dubai – Skydiving. You have two options; dessert view or Palm Jumeirah view. I suggest going for the latter as it is so much more picturesque.
There are several time slots you can choose in the morning from around 9 am. Make sure to wear loose-fitting clothes that you feel comfortable in and closed shoes.
The staff makes you feel very safe and explain the entire process before the jump. There is a guide with you at all times. Women can also request for a female guide prior to their experience.
The best bit is that photography and a video is part of the package as a camera flyer accompanies you on the ride. The jump is roughly 60 seconds after which the parachute opens up and you slowly land back on the drop zone.
Click here to look at time slots, reviews, prices, and booking dates
Getting there: If you’re opting for a desert campus which is a slightly cheaper alternative, you will have the meeting location here. If you’ve chosen the Palm Drop Zone, get to this place. I suggest taking a taxi for both these areas or use Google Maps if you’re driving.
Option 2: Dubai Helicopter Ride
An option that is more comfortable on the budget is the Dubai Helicopter Ride. You’ll get approximately 12 minutes on the tour from where you can see the beautiful layout of Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, and Burj Khalifa – the main attractions if you’re wondering what to see in Dubai in 2 days.
The ride is simple and easy! Nothing to worry about and best if you’re traveling with someone who doesn’t quite like the idea of jumping from 13000ft 🙂
Click here to look at time slots, reviews, prices, and booking dates
Getting there (https://goo.gl/maps/eA5cW6Upp5vPZEcD6): Dubai Police Academy is located in Al Sufouh 1. There isn’t a metro or bus service nearby so it would be best to take a taxi to the place.
Dolphin Encounter at Atlantis
After your thrilling Dubai 2 days tour, now it’s time to experience one of the best things to see in Dubai in 2 days or more – the Dolphin Encounter at Atlantis. Sure, this is something that this is an activity in Dubai that the kids will enjoy but adults too!
It’s also a really nice way to cool off in the hot Dubai summer heat. There are time slots but I recommend booking something afternoon so you can have lunch at one of Atlantis restaurants.
Check out my experience at the Celebrity Chef Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen, or Chef Giorgio Locatelli’s Ronda Locatelli, or Seafire Steakhouse.
I also had a great time at Hakkasan, go there if you’re craving Chinese!
The entire experience should take about 1.5 hours with around 30 minutes to spend with a dolphin. I especially loved including this in my Dubai itinerary because it’s so different from what we can usually experience when visiting other countries.
Due to COVID19, they have now limited the number of people per activity so there isn’t a crowd. There is complimentary access to Aquaventure Waterpark included in the package fee so you can go there too if you aren’t tired enough
Click here to look at time slots, reviews, prices, and booking dates
Getting there (https://g.page/dolphin-bay?share):Â Atlantis is located in Palm Jumeirah and is one of the best hotels in Dubai. If you’ve either chosen the Palm Drop Zone or the Helicopter Ride, you are just a 15-20 minute drive away from Atlantis.
While public transport is a bit sparse in Palm Jumeirah, you can rely on taxis. If you’re driving, you can park at the Atlantis. You can have complimentary parking if you spend about AED 150-200 at the hotel
Desert Safari with Quad Biking and Dune Bashing
Lastly, among the places to visit in Dubai in 2 days is the Dubai Desert. Anyone who has been to Dubai and not done the Desert Safari is considered to have not visited the city at all!
End your thrilling 2 day vacation in Dubai with this adventurous activity in addition to Quad Biking on the sands of the desert, Dune Bashing, Sandboarding, and camel rides.
You can either choose a 4 hours desert safari tour or a longer one with 7 hours that will include dinner, belly dancing show, henna painting, and other entertainment. I say, go full-on for this experience as it is Dubai must see in 2 days or even if you’re here for 1 day and a few hours more.
Click here to look at time slots, reviews, prices, and booking dates
Getting there: There is pickup and drop off to major hotels and landmarks in Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman included in the package. Confirm with the tour guide about your location and pickup/dropoff timings
Where to Stay in Dubai for 2 Nights
There are a number of good hotels in Dubai and most of them are kept in remarkable condition. The service in Dubai hotels is something I have not experienced in other countries as they take care of everything you could possibly need.
Read: Best Places to Stay in Dubai for all budgets
Booking.comHere are some of my recommendations for you to stay during your two days in Dubai:
Rove Dubai Marina: Since most of the activities are located in the Dubai Marina area, it would make sense for you to stay in that area. Rove Dubai Marina is a fantastic choice for a budget trip to Dubai.
The Rove Hotels are 3-star hotels by the Emaar brand (a luxury real estate company that has a budget offering now) The hotels are funky, colorful, and at the same time also have the best facilities. Click here to see their pictures
Ramada Hotel & Suites, JBR: A family hotel in Dubai that is located pretty close to the beach so you can relax there. There are tons of hotels located in the JBR area so there’s a variety to pick from.
Staying in the area guarantees you Dubai Marina Mall nearby, tram and metro services, restaurants of all cuisines through order or dine-in, convenience store, and of course the beach 🙂
Address Dubai Marina: For a more luxurious option, stay at the Address Dubai Marina. The Address Hotels are an Emaar brand and one of their top hotels in Dubai which will ensure a comfortable 2 nights in Dubai. The services are definitely top-notch and the restaurants are a must to dine in. If you’re staying during the weekend, you absolutely must try their brunch at Mazina, Address Dubai Marina.
Check out the best brunches in Dubai
Address Dubai Marina is connected to Dubai Marina Mall which is where you will be doing your zip line activity. You can literally just get out of bed and go for the ride! Haha!
Click here to see their rooms, rates, and Address Dubai Marina review
Atlantis, Palm Jumeirah: Of course, I wouldn’t be missing out on Atlantis! I still haven’t stayed at this hotel because, boy, it is expensive! Also, I keep telling myself that I should book it for an occasion but keep putting it off.
Seriously though, if you want to stay in a super unique place, I’d recommend their underwater rooms with the view of sea animals. The feeling is just unbeatable! Click here to pictures, rates, and Atlantis review
An optional stay would be the cruise from Dubai for 2 days of your trip. Hire a private yacht and set on a 5 star overnight cruise. Breakfast will be provided, however, the price included in the package is for a group. If you are traveling alone, this would probably be a costly idea. Click here to check rates for the private cruise in Dubai
Some frequently answered questions before visiting Dubai:Â
I’m traveling to Dubai for the first time, is there anything I should know?Â
Dubai is a beautiful city and located in the United Arab Emirates. It is one of the seven emirates that make up this country. The U.A.E. is mostly made of expatriates who have helped shape and grow the country’s economy.
This is why you will find this to be a diverse city where people of several nationalities live together in harmony. There is no room for racism, gender discrimination, and offenses are charged with a hefty fine.
To read more about traveling to Dubai for the first time, click here
How is it in Dubai during the Coronavirus?Â
Dubai has slowly opened its doors to tourists while practicing social distancing. For more detailed info about best places to visit Dubai during Coronavirus, read here
What to Pack for Dubai in 2 Days?Â
Before traveling, make sure that you check which is the best season to visit Dubai for your needs and activities. I have written a full guide about this where you can make a good decision before making travel plans.
Also, remember to check if you are visiting Dubai during Ramadan as most activities are either closed or function at shorter timings during this month.
If you are traveling during summer, then stock up on the sunscreen and airy clothes. For winter, a light jacket or shawl would do. Check out this article on what to wear in Dubai
What to do if I am on a Dubai transit?Â
To check whether you can leave the airport during your visit for a Dubai layover tour, see my guide explore Dubai in one day and things you can do during transit in Dubai
I hope this article Dubai 2 days package of adventure and thrills helps you out, so next time you actually find yourself thinking you have 2 days in Dubai, what to do? Then you know the answer!
Until then, happy traveling! xx
P.S. If you want to save and read later, here’s a pinnable version 🙂
I’ve always wanted to visit Dubai it seems like such a magical city, with so many things to do. This guide will def come in handy.
Great in depth article! There’s so much info here! Saving this for sure.
These are some exciting ideas for a trip to Dubai! I don’t think I’m brave enough for most of them though! I thought I was a bit of a thrill-seeker but maybe not! The speedboat sounds incredible though!
Dubai looks amazing! I love how detailed this guide is! I find your recommendations to be perfect for a short trip!
Okay, adding every last one of these activities to my Dubai to do list! I am definitely always seeking a thrill when I travel and I did not realize Dubai had so many! Thank you for sharing 🙂