Luxury. Glamour. Energy. Dubai embodies all of these qualities and more. A pioneer of innovative architecture set against a dramatic desert backdrop, Dubai is a city to be returned to time and time again. But as the transport hub of the Middle East, Dubai is also perfect for a 48-hour stopover—and here’s our guide to two days in the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates.
Where to stay?
Resplendent with some of the world’s most sumptuous hotels, you’re spoilt for choice when it comes to finding somewhere to lay your head. Treat yourself and enjoy the city from the recognisable sail-shaped silhouette of the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, ‘the world’s most luxurious hotel’. We’d also heartily recommend the Jumeirah Beach Hotel.
Day One
Kick-off your first morning in Dubai with a stroll to take in the city. Dubai boasts some of the world’s finest luxury shopping, with a variety of exclusive malls. But we recommend you take advantage of the weather and head to The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence to while away your first-morning shopping and enjoy the open-air Covent Garden Market. You can also cool off by taking a shuttle boat to explore the marina.
Then it’s time for an iconic Dubai experience and a spot of lunch. No visit to Dubai would be complete without a visit to the world-famous Burj Khalifa—although, at 828 metres, you’d be hard-pressed to miss it. The Burj Khalifa is a multi-use space which encompasses office space, private homes and the Armani Hotel. It also boasts two observation decks and the world’s highest restaurant, At.mosphere. With a critically acclaimed menu and an unbeatable view, it’s well worth a reservation.
Return to your hotel to cool off in the pool and top up your tan in the late afternoon. Take advantage of the balmy evenings to enjoy a rooftop cocktail, complete with glittering views. Head to 40 Kong in the business district to enjoy panoramic views of the city and a sumptuous offering of cocktails, spirits and cigars. For post-dinner entertainment, Enness CEO Islay Robinson recommends 360, which floats at the end of the Jumeirah Beach Hotel walkway, offering supreme wraparound views, a Pan-Asian menu, international DJs, and world-class mixologists.
Day Two
If all your exploring has taken a toll on your feet, Dubai has a wealth of luxury spas in which to enjoy a morning’s bliss. We recommend you enjoy a detox package at the Amara Spa, in the Park Hyatt hotel. Beautifully decorated in a Moroccan style, the Amara Spa also offers a fantastic package for couples; you can enjoy a coffee scrub, body wrap, massage, facial, relaxation session and spa cuisine with a loved one. Of course, if the spa isn’t your scene, Dubai boasts some of the best golf courses in the Middle East, so tee off at a course of your choice. The Emirates Golf club, first opened in 1988, stands firm as one of the best in the region.
Whatever you choose, you’re bound to have worked up an appetite. Located in the Dubai International Finance Centre, Zuma is the top dinner pick of Enness MD, Hugh-Wade Jones. With dinner served from 7pm, head here with friends to enjoy a sophisticated feast of Japanese sharing plates. But no time to linger over dessert—Dubai has an endless supply of bars, lounges and clubs for your enjoyment. Wherever you go, you’re sure to be met with excellent service and glamorous surrounds. Of course, if you have a few hours to spare before dinner, swing by our new office in the DIFC for a chat about the Enness offering. Read more about Dubai mortgages.
Or, if you’ve had your fill of bars and restaurants, enjoy a truly authentic experience; a luxury desert safari. We recommend using your second evening in Dubai to take an evening safari including a desert sunset, camel rides and belly dancing by the fire.
