Reset, recharge, rediscover: Why a trip to Dubai is exactly what you need

A trip to Dubai means skyscrapers, desert, and everything in between. We recently took a trip to the city and can confirm that it has a little bit (okay, a lot) of everything you could want out of a vacation.

Dubai offers sunshine, luxury, great food, and endless adventures. We definitely recommend adding it to your bucket list if it isn’t already there.

And if you have an upcoming trip, or even a layover, this itinerary has a bit of everything to help you reset and recharge.

Day 1: From your feed to real life

Start your trip with a splash of colour and character at Mama Shelter, a boutique hotel with only a handful of locations around the world. Think bold patterns, a lively rooftop pool, and a funky retro vibe, all just 10 minutes away from downtown Dubai. It’s the perfect spot to freshen up after a long flight before diving into the city.

Let’s be honest, you’re probably a little jet-lagged. That’s why your first stop should be the iconic Dubai Mall, a destination in itself. It’s massive, vibrant, and full of attractions that will wake you right up. Start by heading up the Burj Khalifa, because who wouldn’t want to stand on top of the world’s tallest building?

When we reached the top, we caught ourselves just looking up, down, and around, having that “holy crap, I’m in Dubai” moment. It truly set the tone for the rest of the trip.

Back down on the ground, check out the Arte Museum and Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo inside the mall. Both are immersive, modern, and surprisingly fun, and totally worth your time.

For dinner, Time Out Market Dubai is a great first-night spot. With dozens of vendors and cuisines from around the world, it’s a foodie playground that sets the bar high for what’s to come.

Hot tip: Dress in layers. You’ll go from the desert heat (honestly, the humidity does wonders for your skin) to blasts of air conditioning everywhere. Even the bus shelters and bathrooms are chilled.

Day 2: Immerse yourself in culture

A complete change of pace from downtown Dubai, Old Dubai is rich with history, culture, and vibrant streets to explore.

You can’t visit the city without an authentic Emirati breakfast. That’s why we went to the Arabian Tea House to kick off the day. We went for the Special Emirati Breakfast Tray. Think sweet, spiced balaleet with omelette, dates, molasses, melted cheese, and traditional bread. Don’t forget your cup of Karak tea! (The staff honestly won’t let you forget it.) Strong, sweet, and spiced just right. We became obsessed with Karak on this trip. The hospitality here is next-level, also. We instantly felt welcomed.

Next, hop on an Abra (traditional wooden boat) from Dubai Creek to the opposite bank. This is your gateway to the textile, spice, and gold souks, where the colours, scents, and energy are unforgettable. We may or may not have indulged in a little bit of shopping. While you’re nearby, explore the Al Fahidi Historical District; winding alleyways, art galleries, and beautifully preserved wind-tower houses give a glimpse of what Dubai was like decades ago.

Take a break for lunch at the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU). Here, you’ll enjoy another authentic Arabian meal while chatting with long-time Emiratis who are happy to answer your questions about the city, culture, and traditions — stuff you’ll never find on Google. It’s literally a conversation over lunch. We learnt so much, with a happy belly.

Don’t stop the learning there — head to the Etihad Museum, set on the very spot where the United Arab Emirates was founded in 1971. Etihad means union in Arabic, and the museum beautifully captures the history, struggles, and vision behind the nation. 

Day 3: Starry Arabian Desert Night

Picture this: A private car picks you up from your hotel and drives you about 45 minutes out into the desert, where you’re given a headscarf (which they even tie for you — much needed in the desert!). Then, you hop into a vintage Land Rover for a natural desert safari with golden hour stops along the way (yes, they stop for pics), topped off with an incredible falcon show at sunset.

Sound fun? The night is literally just getting started. Once the sun went down, we were welcomed into a torch-lit Bedouin camp with camel-back riding, bread and coffee making, and a four-course authentic dinner. The entertainment was non-stop, too. From drumming to Yola dancing and stargazing. For us, it was easily one of the most memorable parts of the trip. I mean, when else can you say you had a desert night like that?

We thoroughly enjoyed this excursion, and if you’ve always dreamed of that Instagram-worthy desert experience (and crossing camel-back riding off your bucket list), I highly recommend booking the Heritage Desert Safari with Platinum Heritage. The folks there really know how to host in a fun, educational, and ethical way.

Day 4: Relax and slow down

This was one of our favourite days of the trip. The thing about Dubai is that its relaxation game is strong, and we experienced it in the best way.

We started with a morning swim in the sky. Sitting 210 meters above ground, AURA Skypool is the world’s highest 360º infinity pool. The views are unreal (Marina view was our pick), and their breakfast menu is just as impressive. Fresh juices, smoothie bowls, and one of the best matchas I’ve ever had.

Next up: an Ayurveda spa experience. Ayurveda is an ancient Indian practice that connects the mind, body, and spirit, and this treatment was unlike any spa day we’ve had before. We came out of Sohum Wellness Centre feeling completely renewed; their staff truly take care of you from the moment you walk in.

We’d hit the pool and the spa, so naturally, the next stop was… the beach! Dubai is the kind of city that keeps crossing bucket-list items off for you. Swimming in the Arabian Gulf was definitely one of them. Soft sand, perfectly warm water, and just pure bliss. We spent the afternoon at Nikki Beach Dubai, which has locations around the world (like Miami and Mallorca), but the Dubai one was next-level. Between the daybeds, food, and chill vibe, we were already planning our return before we even left.

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To wrap up the day, we made our way to Three Bros, just a few minutes from the beach. Every dish was an explosion of flavour. Bold is an understatement. We even got to chat with Mohamad Orfali, one of the owners, who mentioned that Dubai is the “ingredient capital of the world.” From sourcing local produce to importing fresh fish from Japan and wheat from Canada, it’s a global kitchen done right. Highlights for us were the Gem & Roquefort, the Aubergine Royale, and the Cake Sando for dessert. To drink, don’t overlook the Limetta Olio. Trust us on this one.

Day 5: Day trip to Hatta

Ditch the tall buildings and big shopping malls for the day, because just an hour and a half from Dubai is Hatta. For us, it felt like driving out to Banff from Calgary. Close enough for a day trip, but a total change of scenery. Set amidst the Hajar Mountains, there’s so much to see and do.

We started with a kayak ride on the Hatta Dam. Hatta Kayak offers a variety of boats for singles or groups, and the whole experience was surprisingly relaxing. Being that close to the water was exactly what we needed in the heat.

For lunch, Al Hajarain was hospitable, delicious, and the perfect spot to unwind. Their menu covers breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you’re guaranteed to find something that catches your eye. We went for the açaí bowl because it was definitely a hot day.

Next on the docket: Hatta Wadi Hub, and honestly… It was SO MUCH FUN. With around 20 different activities, we zip-lined and hit the tube slide. Talk about feeling like a kid again. If you’re travelling with little ones, they’ll absolutely love it. It’s also connected to Hatta Resorts, where you can stay in lodges, domes, or campers if you want to extend your adventure.

In the heart of town is Hatta Heritage Village, a preserved and reconstructed site that showcases rural life from centuries ago. It’s like a living museum. If the sun and activities haven’t tired you out yet, a walk through the village is a great way to round out the day.

Day 6: Art comes in many forms

Dubai is filled to the brim with art. It’s literally everywhere you look. But if you need a little guidance, we’ve got you covered. First, though… movement.

We hit up The Matcha Club in the morning. Not for matcha (although there’s a really cute café there and yes, they do have matcha.) But for a 75-minute Vinyasa Flow class. With the heat, the jet lag, and all the running around, it was the perfect way to start the day and re-centre ourselves. They offer tons of different classes, and if paddle is your sport, they’ve got some amazing courts too.

Not too far from there is the oh-so-inspiring Alserkal Avenue. Think of it as a full-blown art hub. With theatre, galleries, installations, and every medium you can imagine, the stories in this space are endless. It’s internationally oriented, pulling in regional and global artists… and yes, even some Canadian ties.

Now for lunch. Do not take this recommendation lightly. Jun’s is a Michelin-star restaurant that absolutely deserves every ounce of praise. Chef Kelvin Cheung blends his Asian heritage, Canadian roots, and French training into dishes that feel like art (see the theme today?). We recommend the tasting menu. Standouts for us were the pani puri and First Trip to China. Honestly, though, I don’t think you can go wrong with anything on the menu.

Not going to lie, all that incredible food put us into a food coma in the best way. So after a little rest at the hotel, we got dressed up (who doesn’t love doing that?) and made our way to La Perle. It was our quickest drive yet, which I appreciated because Dubai traffic is no joke; the drive was less than 10 minutes away from our hotel.

And wow. Just wow. Do not skip La Perle. It was the most breathtaking show we have ever seen. Think Cirque du Soleil, but on a totally different level. The stage, the waterworks (not tears, the actual waterworks), the acrobatics, the talent, the story with nods to Dubai’s culture woven throughout. It was all just fabulous. My jaw was on the floor the entire time. I would see it again in a heartbeat.

Day 7: End it with a bang

At this point in the trip, you’ve probably already googled “how to move to Dubai” and are pretending you’re not heartbroken about leaving. Just us? Oh…

Day 7 slows things down. You start your morning on a clear kayak at Jumeirah Beach, your playlist in the background and the Dubai skyline stretching out in front of you. It’s one of those moments where you can’t help but pause, look around, and quietly thank this city for the ride of a lifetime, which is exactly what we did. We booked with Crystal Clear Watersports, and the staff were so kind and helpful. Plus, the speakers? Such a fun touch. Another bucket-list moment, checked off.

After that, since you’re probably gearing up for a long-haul flight later today or tomorrow, it’s time for one last treat-yourself moment: the spa. And trust us, Dubai does spas well. We visited The Pearl Spa at the Four Seasons Dubai (Jumeirah), and it felt like stepping into an episode of The White Lotus, without the drama. We both got the Pearl Bespoke Massage, tailored perfectly to our preferences, and it was everything our travel-tired bodies needed. The indoor pool alone is worth the visit. Absolutely stunning.

For your final dinner, we saved something truly special: Avatara. It’s the world’s first and only vegetarian Indian Michelin-star fine-dining concept, and such a unique way to get your veggies in. Go big with the Avatara Experience Menu: 17 beautifully crafted courses, each one more impressive than the last. Expect artful plating, wild flavour bursts, and desserts you’ll be thinking about long after you land. The jasmine rice and condensed milk dishes were unreal. 

And that’s a wrap on one unforgettable week in Dubai. This is how we chose to spend our time, but honestly, no matter how long you’re visiting for, you can mix and match the experiences that excite you most. That’s the magic of Dubai.

If you’re craving a change of pace, culture, or scenery, this city delivers in every way, from desert dining under the stars to heavenly spa days to food that constantly surprises you. Dubai truly has a little bit of everything, and it carved out such a special place in our hearts.

We went in October, which was perfect. The weather had finally dipped to around 35–40°C (yes, that’s considered “cooler” there!), and it kept getting more comfortable as the days went on. Their winter months are peak season, so if you’re dreaming of a warm winter getaway, this is the spot. Emirates flies direct from Toronto and Montreal every day, and the flight is about 12–13 hours. Totally worth it the moment you land.

If a trip to Dubai is on your list… go! You won’t regret a single second.

The author of this article was hosted by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism.