Novotel World Trade Centre Dubai - Family & Business trip hotel - Your Ultimate Guide to a Weekend Staycation in Dubai

Planning a getaway weekend in Dubai? This city is brimming with glistening skyscrapers, historical sites, and a food culture that leaves little room for want. With just over 48 hours to spend in a city filled with so much to do, it’s essential to plan your trip wisely, from where to stay to what to do. Here’s your guide to the best way to spend a weekend staycation in Dubai.

 

Information to know before your weekend in Dubai

As a cosmopolitan city in the Middle East, Dubai is a great location for those travelling from Westernised countries, or simply for those planning a fun staycation or a weekend in Dubai while visiting from another Emirate.

 

If you’re new to Dubai, here’s what you should know before your trip:

 

• Languages: Arabic is the official language, although English is commonly spoken among locals and expats in Dubai.

 

• Currency: Dirhams (Dhs). You can easily visit most places and use your credit card for payment, but it’s always a good idea to carry cash.

 

• Dubai Metro: Travelling around Dubai is affordable and easy when you use the Dubai Metro, which can get you to most places without hassle.

 

• Best time to visit: Dubai’s “winter” runs from October to the middle of April, with cooler temperatures that make it more comfortable for sightseeing and exploring. It’s also the time when all attractions are open for visits, as opposed to the summer months when you may not get to see everything on your bucket list. Despite this, Dubai is great year-round and offers plenty to see and do, no matter when you visit!

 

• Dress code: While Dubai is more Westernised, it’s still advisable to dress more on the conservative side while out in public. Swimming costumes are allowed at beaches and beach clubs, and you should cover up properly when visiting mosques and religious buildings.

 

See more by staying central

If you want to tick off as many things as possible and make travel a breeze, book your accommodation at a centrally located hotel like Novotel World Trade Centre for your weekend in Dubai. Our four-star hotel in Dubai is within close proximity to the metro station and top attractions. We also provide a complimentary shuttle service to places like the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, Kite Beach, and the Dubai Outlet Mall. Plus, we’re located just 15 minutes from the DXB Airport, so you don’t have to worry about rushing to and from the airport while visiting the city.

 

Where to visit during your weekend in Dubai

It can be difficult to know where to go when visiting Dubai because there is simply so much to see! While you may not get to do it all in just one visit, we recommend visiting the following spots to make the most of your weekend staycation in Dubai:

 

The Dubai Mall

This world-renowned mall is great for seeing many attractions in one go when time is of the essence during your weekend in Dubai! Not your average mall, the Dubai Mall is one of the largest malls in the world, and also home to the Dubai Ice Rink, the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, and a prime spot for seeing the towering Burj Khalifa from outside if you aren’t able to visit it directly. It also has a massive food court for when those hunger pangs kick in, with a wide variety of international cuisine available to satisfy those cravings in between exploring the hundreds of stores.

 

Dubai Mall:

Opening hours: 10am – 1am, daily, except Wednesday (closes at midnight)

Location: Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Dubai

 

Burj Khalifa:

Opening hours – At The Top: 8am – 12am, daily

Price – At The Top: from AED169

Location: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai

 

Dubai Ice Rink:

Opening hours: 10am – 12am, daily

Price: From AED 110

Location: Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Dubai

 

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Opening hours: 10am – 10:15pm, daily

Price: from AED 199

Location: Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, Dubai

 

Museum of the Future

One of the most iconic architectural landmarks in Dubai, the Museum of the Future is a wonderful way to enjoy an educational outing with the family. Unlike other museums, the Museum of the Future explores futuristic concepts of life, nature and society, offering an immersive experience for all.

 

Opening hours: 10am – 9:30pm, daily

Price: from AED149

 

Location: Sheikh Zayed Road, Trade Centre – Dubai

 

Dubai Creek

The historic creek is where Dubai’s economy began, with pearl divers and merchandisers bringing pearls, coffees, spices and textiles from around the world for trade. Take a leisurely abra ride, a traditional water boat that cruises along the creek for just AED 1, and soak up old and new Dubai while indulging in a slice of the city’s heritage.

 

Location: Baniyas Rd, Deira, Dubai

 

Dubai Souks

From gold to spices and textiles, the traditional marketplaces in Dubai are a must-see, especially if it’s your first time in Dubai. You can find some unique treasure troves and souvenirs reminiscent of your stay in the city, or shop aromatic spices, beautiful jewellery, and cashmere to take home as gifts for loved ones.

 

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Also known as Al Bastikaya, this charming historical neighbourhood is within close proximity to the Dubai Creek and makes for a great trip back in time. Immerse yourself in Old Dubai culture and heritage during your weekend in Dubai while walking its winding cobblestone streets and taking in the limestone buildings before dipping into one of the many restaurants or cafes peppered along the way. Whether it’s a strongly brewed cup of Arabic coffee and sweets you’re after or a spicy plate of Indian food, you’re in for a treat. 

 

Location: Al Fahidi St, Al Souq Al Kabeer, Bur Dubai

 

Kite Beach

Take advantage of Novotel WTC’s free daily shuttle services to Kite Beach! Framed by the Burj Al Arab, enjoy some sun, sand, and sea in between dining from the gourmet food trucks or watching people play sports at sunset.

 

Opening hours: 24 hours daily (note: sport and dining venue timings will vary).

 

Location: Umm Suqeim, just off Jumeirah Beach Road, Dubai

 

Travel smart

If you’re a frequent traveller, use loyalty programmes like Accor’s ALL loyalty programme for exclusive points and perks during your visits to the group’s hotels. For those looking for weekend offers in Dubai, Novotel offers plenty of exciting F&B offers, as well as accommodation offers throughout the year. Simply check out our website for the latest deals to make the most of your weekend in Dubai.

 

You can also plan your weekend in Dubai around upcoming events and activities as shared on sites like TimeOut Dubai. From vibrant concerts to pool day passes, beach clubs and more, you’re sure to find exciting stuff that can fill up your weekend itinerary. 

 

Book a stay at Novotel World Trade Centre

Ready to kickstart your weekend in Dubai? Book a stay at Novotel World Trade Centre, your gateway to the rest of this exciting city. Plus, enjoy access to our temperature-controlled outdoor pool, gym, and various restaurants and bars on site. You can also look forward to hotel services like our room service for when you’re tired from a day of exploring.

 

We can’t wait to make you feel right at home!

 

Book a stay now.