Anwaar Mashair
07 Nov, 2025
6 mins read
37
When you are flying over Dubai and you have a couple of hours or even a complete day to spend, then you are in luck! Dubai is not a mere transit location it is a global destination with amazing sites, shopping, and experiences. Regardless of whether you have a Dubai transit visa or intend to get one, you have limited time to spend in the city and you should enjoy it by sightseeing.
This is a short list of the best activities to do in Dubai in transit, the handy tips to travel, and how to make your visa arrangements an easy task prior to your flight.
One cannot visit Dubai without touring the tallest skyscraper in the world the Burj Khalifa. Although time-starved, an escalator trip to the observation deck is a fast way to take in some panoramic shots of the magnificent skyline in Dubai. Purchase your tickets online to eliminate the queues and maximize on your layover.
The Dubai Mall is a shopaholics heaven, and it is directly placed next to the Burj Khalifa. It has more than 1,200 stores, an aquarium, an ice rink, and innumerable restaurants and it is the ultimate place to have a few hours. There is also the Dubai Fountain Show, which is a wonderful show of water and lights and runs after every 30 minutes in the evening.
To have a glimpse of the cultural aspect of the city, visit Old Dubai. Ride an abra (water taxi) across the Dubai Creek, go to the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, and the Al Fahidi Historical District. This is the place where one can experience the traditional feel of Dubai, in a refreshing contrast with the modern skyline.
Have some time before your next flight? Go on a walk through Jumeirah Beach where you get to spend some time under the sun and have a glimpse of the famous Burj Al Arab. The area has ample cafes and lounges and therefore it is suitable to relax between the long-haul flights.
In case you have a long transit time (8 to 12 hours), then you might want to consider a short desert safari. You will get to dune bash, ride on camels, sandboards, and even have a feel of the traditional Emirati amusements in just a few hours. Some of them even provide airport pick-up and drop services to the transit travelers, which has made travelling by air very convenient.
In the event that you have 3-4 hours to spare, then go and relax in the town of Dubai. The region hosts the best coffee shops, roof top lounge and upscale hotels. Spend the time in people-watching and enjoy a cup of Arabic coffee, and then come back to the airport refreshed.
Pre-check visa fillings: Have you checked your visa before travelling? A Dubai transit visa of up to 48 or 96 hours can be applied by numerous nationalities.
Tackle authorities through official visa service or reliable agencies to provide a hassle free and fast visa processing.
Remember about the distance to the airport: the Dubai International Airport (DXB) is located in the center of the city, and the majority of attractions can be reached in 20-30 minutes.
Pre-plan: It is easier to book tours, transfers, and tickets online.
In case you have decided to tour the city during the layover, it will always be advisable to go with someone you know and trust, who is well versed in the locality.
Go Kite Travel is a forefront travel agency in Dubai which provides Dubai transit visa services, flight tickets, and short tour packages. You may want to go off the road, you may want to go shopping at The Dubai Mall or even want to go and enjoy the beach- we will make all the arrangements and you will go and enjoy Dubai without the worry.
Book now your transit visa and Dubai stopover experience with Go Kite Travel â and turn your layover into an unforgettable mini vacation.
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