Dubai Itinerary - 3 Days in Dubai for First Timers

Next up is Ski Dubai, the Middle East’s biggest indoor ski resort, which hosts the world’s first indoor black diamond run. While unexpected in the middle of the desert, you'll soon learn it's just par for the course when it comes to all the astonishing things you'll find in Dubai.

This amazing venue houses five ski slopes of different steepness and difficulty, a sled and toboggan run, an ice cave, and a live penguin zone. (We're not kidding - King and Gentoo penguins periodically roam the slopes – away from skiers, of course.) Even if you’ve never skied or snowboarded before, Ski Dubai offers lessons for rookies and beginners.

Use your pass to access the wintery wonderland with a Snow Classic pass, or take to the slopes with Ski Dubai Ski Slope access.

A perfect way to round out your first day in Dubai is with a gentle cruise on the authentic dhow boats you'll see all around the area. A dinner cruise aboard one of these vessels is a fun option, as it combines the wonder and excitement of sightseeing with the relaxation and fun of a 5-star dinner buffet. On this two-hour cruise, you'll set sail along the charming Dubai Creek, a historic body of water that divides the downtown area into two distinct banks.

As you may notice from the picture above, this dhow cruise also highlights the balance between the historic and the modern that Dubai maintains. You'll get to see top local sights, including the National Bank of Dubai, the Chamber of Commerce Building, and many more waterfront landmarks. Here's another place where you'll want to have your camera or phone at the ready, as all these buildings will be beautifully illuminated in the evening.

You can't visit Dubai without ascending to the top of the tallest structure in the entire world - the Burj Khalifa. This marvel of modern engineering towers above the already impressive Dubai skyline, and a visit to the At the Top observation area provides unparalleled views of the bustling city below.

Head up to the observation deck, where you'll find interactive displays and exhibits that tell the story of the construction of this iconic building and fascinating information about Dubai as a city and the region's history. 

Head to IMG Worlds of Adventure, the world’s largest indoor theme park, and one of the most epic entertainment destinations in Dubai. Here, you'll find all your favorite characters from Cartoon Network and the Marvel franchise. Wind your way through a prehistoric-themed zone, a lost valley, and a haunted hotel. Each area has themed rides and unique experiences to keep everyone entertained.

Don't miss the Velociraptor Dinosaur Adventure – this thrill ride launches you from the prehistoric jungles of the Lost Valley out into the desert of Dubai.

Visit one of the city's most amazing treasures – a vertical, four-story indoor rainforest with a focus on conservation and education. You're bound to find the Green Planet both inspiring and informative. You'll see real flora and fauna that live in tropical biomes around the world, like bright butterflies, colorful frogs, vibrant tropical birds, and much more.

Traverse the entire rainforest as you visit different floors, exploring everything from the fascinating "Flooded Rainforest" to the impressive "Canopy" on the very top floor.

There’s no need to dry off, as your next stop includes a visit to Atlantis, The Palm’s most famous five-star hotel and resort. Make a splash at the Aquaventure Waterpark, which boasts some of the most thrilling water rides and attractions in the world. This will be an experience unlike any other waterpark you've ever been to. After all, Dubai is very much about going big!

Savor your afternoon with a spot at one of the Palm’s excellent beach clubs as you soak up the Arabian Gulf’s bright sun.

Also located at Atlantis, The Palm, is the Lost Chambers Aquarium. Here is where you can view tons of species of sea life, sharks, and tropical fish up close. The fun-packed aquarium features 10 themed chambers with diverse marine life from all over the world and lots of informative activities - it's a great attraction for children to visit.

You'll also want to go on one of the hourly Myth Tours (included with admission), which showcases the cultural influences of this special attraction.