When it comes to Dubai, it’s either on your bucket list or you’ve already been. I went to Dubai in 2015 and since then I’m sure a lot has changed in the ever-developing state. However, when I see people on my socials visiting Dubai they usually do all the things I did back then with the addition of a few activities.

We went in August for 5 nights and now looking back it makes sense why it was so cheap! I would not recommend going in the summer unless you are accustomed to or enjoy extreme heat. During the summer, temperatures reach above 40 degrees with major humidity. Since it was our first time we didn’t think to consider any of this but a pro tip to all you travellers, when planning a holiday always research to see when in the year it’s best to visit. This is to ensure you have the most enjoyable and comfortable experience.

We stayed in Deira which was a little out of the city centre but still had a lot to offer. The souks, creeks and other attractions were nearby, and only a short drive to get to Sheik Zayed Road, Burj Khalifah, Jumeriah, Dubai mall and so forth.

Check out the list below of things we saw and did as well as a few new attractions:

• Bus tour – an excellent and relaxed way to see all the hot spots in Dubai
• Yellow boat tour – this takes you on a guided tour of the marina hitting the famous Atlantis, Burj al Arab and the palm island
• Atlantis The Palm – visit the Lost Chambers aquarium, swim with dolphins, adventure water park and much more
• Desert safari – dune bashing, camel riding, quad biking, belly dancing and much more
• Dubai mall – a dream and possibly too many shops even for the most serious shopper!
• Aquarium – located at the Dubai mall, an impressive display of sea creatures
• Burj Khalifa – the tallest building in the world, check out the impressive views from the 148th floor
• Dubai Creek – the old town of Dubai’s past
• Wild Wadi – water park filled with tandem slides and rides for the whole family
• Abu Dhabi – an easy drive from Dubai but well worth the effort, visit the famous Sheik Zayed mosque, emirates palace, Ferrari world theme park etc
• Fountain show – be sure to catch a show of the dancing fountains at the Dubai Mall, with the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa it is a spectacular sight.
• Souks – there are some really great deals and items that can be found at the souks and it’s a great place to experience a little more of the culture. Be sure to haggle the price as much as you can its all part of the experience
• Dubai Frame – soak in the heritage of the desert by the sea
• Burj Al Arab – one of the most iconic buildings in the middle east
• Dubai Ferris Wheel – world’s highest Ferris wheel coming 2020
• Global Village – more than 70 countries represented in shows and stalls
• IMG Worlds of Adventure – world’s biggest indoor theme park
• Skydive Dubai – brave enough to take the jump over the man-made palm island?
• Dubai Miracle Garden – the world’s largest natural flower garden

Overall, my experience in Dubai was great but it wasn’t the best place I’ve been to. Sure, the larger than life architecture and abundant attractions make it a fun place to visit but it lacks in identity. Although saying that, if I wanted a more superficial holiday Dubai would be the ideal choice!