How to get the best out of your weekend in Dubai

 Regarded as the Middle East's most popular playground for travellers, Dubai is a city that's jam-packed with attractions and activities for visitors of all ages. While those who are visiting for the weekend may not be able to experience all that the metropolis has to offer, there are certain rites of passage all weekend vacationers must enjoy in Dubai. Here's how you can make the most of your two-day getaway to the desert capital.

1. Secure a Strategic Base

Those who are in Dubai for a limited time period, whether it's a weekend or a few days should make sure they select hotels in Dubai Deira and other locations that offer easy access to the city's best highlights. This is due to the fact that time is of the essence and one cannot afford to waste time in transit or travelling to attractions and activity hubs as if one had all the time in the world. This is where a conveniently located hotel comes in handy as a centrally situated venue can allow visitors to explore more in less time. So the first point to consider when booking a hotel in Dubai such as the Avani Deira Dubai Hotel or any other should be its proximity to the city's main hotspots. Those who are unable to secure such a venue should instead opt for a resort that's near local transport links.

2. Explore the Cultural Sites

No trip to Dubai would be complete without exploring the many cultural points of interest scattered around the city. From the Dubai Museum and Jumeirah Mosque to the Jameel Arts Centre and the Dubai Heritage Village, the list is seemingly endless. Don't forget to pop by the iconic Etihad Museum and the Bastakia Quarter where the historic streets are lined with heritage buildings and other highlights. While it is not possible to visit all of Dubai's top attractions, selecting a few that is of particular interest to you and spending time in these cultural venues is a great way to make your vacation more meaningful.

Diego Delso creator QS:P170,Q28147777, Heritage Village-Dubai2856, CC BY-SA 4.0

3. Hit the Malls

As one of the best shopping destinations on the planet, a shopping spree in Dubai is must for all first-time holidaymakers. Marvel at the size and scale of the city's mega-malls and peruse the luxury items for sale at venues the likes of the Mall of Emirates, the Dubai Mall, the Ibn Battuta Mall and the Deira City Centre Shopping Mall and also explore the more traditional retail hubs the likes of the Souk Madinat Jumeirah, Souq Al Jubail and the Waterfront Market. Travellers on a budget will find that souvenirs and other gift items are cheaper in open-air markets across Dubai as they also retail products that are unique to the region including incense, perfumes and spices.

4. Dine Out for Every Meal

Don't order room service when all you have is two days to sample the culinary delights this foodie haven has to offer. Make reservations at top local eateries the likes of Nobu Dubai, Al Hadheerah, La Petite Maison and Thiptara to explore just a hint of the culinary prowess of the city which is also home to iconic restaurants such as Buddha Bar, Pierchic, Zuma Dubai and Table 9.

5. Get Active

A weekend in Dubai also affords travellers the chance to discover the desert landscape and experience as an array of exciting activities and adventures. Signing up for a quad biking safari of the red dunes is a great way to spend time outdoors while a sailing tour around the Dubai Marina or a parasailing tour of Jumeirah Beach is another fun and engaging activity open to all visitors. Sandboarding and bungee jumping off the Burj Khalifa are strictly for daredevils with experience in such daring activities, however.

Image by Kristen Newbre from Pixabay