With an endless list of things to see and do in Dubai, a day seems hardly enough time to explore its top attractions. However, we’ve narrowed down a few must see options for you to include in your itinerary in case you only have limited time in the city.

MORNING AT THE SOUQS

With only a day to spend in Dubai, it simply makes sense to start at the very beginning: Old Dubai. The traditional Gold and Spice Souqs (Souq meaning ‘Market’ in Arabic) approximately a fifteen minute drive from the airport is a great place to start. This will give you an insight into the city’s history and culture pre skyscrapers, luxury malls and all. At the Souqs, you can get really high quality gold and spices at great prices. For an even wholesome experience, you can enjoy a cruise on a traditional boat taxi across the Dubai Creek, a natural stream of sea that goes through the city via Abra.

AFTERNOON AT THE DUBAI MALL

Being the largest shopping mall in the world, one could easily exhaust 24 hours just walking around the Dubai mall. Visitors can browse through some of the famous international brands, unique local brands as well as visit the ever famous Dubai Aquarium. One can also grab lunch either from the food court or the variety of international and local food stores at the Mall.

SUNSET AT THE DUBAI FOUNTAINS

The Dubai Fountain is just within a walking distance from the Dubai Mall. They are the world’s largest choreographed fountains and to answer your question, yes! They are bigger and better than the famous Las Vegas Fountains. Synchronized to Arabic music, opera and even some great Michael Jackson hits, this is arguably one of the best spots to watch sunset in Dubai. Although 24 hours is hardly enough time to explore the city and go up the Burj Khalifa, you can get great views of the iconic building from here and of course take some travel diary photos.

DINER AT SOUQ MADINAT JUMEIRAH

Souq Madinat is a modern market that mimics the old souqs that you visited earlier in the day, it is definitely the best place to end the day. Here, you have a variety of souvenir shops, restaurants and bars to choose from which includes everything from Chinese, Latin, Arabian cuisine and more. Most importantly, you can enjoy your meal with a view of a different angle of the famous Burj Al Arab, which is lit up with multiple colors in the evening. This is also a great place to try hookah if you dot mind smoking that is.

A QUICK PITURE AT THE BURJ AL ARAB

On a trip to Dubai, a picture of the Burj Al Arab is literally a must! The best way to get great pictures of the iconic 7 star hotel is from Sunset Beach, also a great way to relax for a minute and truly letting the Dubai vibe sink in.

At this point, you must have exhausted 24 hours and need some rest before catching your flight. One last place or attraction you should see is the breathtaking Palm Jumeriah, a man-made palm shaped Island which houses an array of hotels to stay the night. The famous 5 star Atlantis The Palm Hotel and here and is home to famous restaurants like Nobu and Ossiano. Other hotel options are Fairmont The Palm and Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, massive resorts with their own private beaches.