Dubai is a cosmopolitan city with a blend of modern architecture, luxury shopping, beautiful beaches, and cultural attractions. It is a city of the future, featuring luxury, innovation, and indulgence, and a dream destination for chocolate lovers.
Dubai is one of the safest parts of the UAE I have ever visited. You can leave your cell phone on a table in a shopping mall, and no one will dare touch it. You can leave your phone in a taxi, and they will call you back to hand it to you. And to top it off, everything looks amazingly luxurious and rich.
The map highlights key attractions and details the viral Dubai Chocolate locations and experiences. Although I spent only a short time in Dubai, I experienced as much as possible before heading to Bali. My Dubai experience was phenomenal, and I can’t wait to visit again on a longer trip.
Not only were the adventures unique, but the food was tasty and the people were so kind. My recommendation is to make your trip to Dubai a stopover trip of under 3 days. Alternatively, consider staying no longer than five days because it can be extremely expensive.
Quick Travel Snapshot
Destination: Dubai, UAE
Trip Style: Modern city life, luxury travel, culture & desert adventure
Trip Length: 3–5 Days (ideal stay)
🏨 Where to Stay
Top Picks: Downtown Dubai for Burj Khalifa views, Dubai Marina for nightlife, or Palm Jumeirah for resort luxury.
Why: Central locations make it easy to reach beaches, souks, malls, and desert excursions.
Hotels Guide: Explore Dubai stays →
🍽️ Where to Eat
Must-Try: Arabic fusion at Al Nafoorah, rooftop dining at Ce La Vi, and viral luxury desserts like Mirzam chocolate.
Best For: Brunch views, date nights, or international tasting menus.
🎟️ Top Experiences
- Visit Burj Khalifa + watch the Dubai Fountain shows
- Desert Safari: dune bashing, camel rides, Bedouin dinner under the stars
- Old Dubai: explore Gold & Spice Souks, Dubai Creek, and Al Fahidi Historic District
- Walk the Marina Promenade or relax at JBR Beach
💡 Coitraveler Tip
Book excursions in advance, carry a light shawl for malls (air conditioning can be freezing), and dress modestly when visiting public or religious sites.
📍 Essential Info
Nearest Airports: DXB (Dubai International) / DWC (Al Maktoum International)
Best Travel Time: November to March (cool, dry months)
Currency: UAE Dirham (AED)
Language: Arabic (English widely spoken)
Local Transport: Metro, taxis, rideshare; avoid walking outdoors midday in summer heat.
Key Takeaways
- Dubai is a safe, modern city that blends tradition and futuristic ambition. It’s one of the top travel spots in the Middle East with luxury shopping, tall skyscrapers, and exciting experiences.
- Best time to visit is November to March, when the weather is cooler and ideal for outdoor fun like desert safaris, beach days, and exploring.
- Respecting cultural norms is important. Modesty in dress, no PDA, and being mindful during Ramadan are expected.
- English is widely spoken, and the local currency is the UAE Dirham (AED). Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
- Taxis and Uber are reliable, but the Metro is clean and affordable for getting around the city. Walking is limited because of the heat and layout.
- Safety is high, but rules are strict. Avoid public intoxication, drugs, and breaking the law. Surveillance is tight.
- Modest but stylish clothing is fine, especially at hotels and tourist areas. Still, covering shoulders and knees in more traditional spots is advised.
Expected Costs
Estimated Cost: You should plan to spend around AED729 ($198) per day on your vacation in Dubai. This amount is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors. Past travelers have spent, on average, AED164 ($45) on meals for one day and AED38 ($10) on local transportation. Also, the average hotel cost for a couple in Dubai is AED998 ($272) a night.
So, a trip to Dubai for two people for one week costs an average of AED10,202 ($2,778).
Accommodation Cost: The average price for one person’s accommodation in Dubai is AED499. For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price is AED998.
Tourists: Dubai Laws You Should Know
When visiting Dubai, it’s essential to know some of the local laws and customs before you go. This ensures a respectful and trouble (jail)-free stay. Here are some key rules that you should keep in mind:
- Dress Modestly: In public places, everyone must dress conservatively. Clothing should cover the shoulders and knees. Revealing attire can be considered disrespectful and may attract unwanted attention (Mx Dubai).
- Public Displays of Affection: Acts like kissing or hugging in public are frowned upon and can lead to legal consequences. It’s best to avoid public affection displays to respect local customs (HDFC Ergo).
- Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol is only permitted in licensed venues such as hotels, bars, and clubs. Drinking or being intoxicated in public places is illegal and can result in fines or imprisonment and if you must drink, you can get a temporary liquor license. This license is valid for one month (Citizens Group).
- Photography Restrictions: Avoid taking photos of government buildings, military installations, and people without consent, especially women (Berkshire Hathaway Travel Protection).
- Prescription Medications: Some legal medications in other countries may be prohibited in Dubai. You should check the UAE’s list of controlled substances. Also, carry a doctor’s prescription for any necessary medications (On The Go Tours).
- Public Behavior: Swearing, making rude gestures, or using offensive language can lead to fines or imprisonment. It’s important to remain courteous and composed in public settings.
- Eating and Drinking in Public Transport: Eating or drinking on public transportation and in stations is prohibited (Culture Trip).
- Use of VPNs: Using Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) to bypass internet restrictions is illegal in Dubai. To prevent legal complications, you should avoid using VPNs.
Travel Map & Key Attractions
- Burj Khalifa
- The tallest building in the world. Visit the observation deck for stunning views.
- Nearby: Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain.
- Dubai Mall
- One of the largest malls in the world, with over 1,200 shops, an aquarium, and an ice rink.
- Perfect for shopping and entertainment.
- Palm Jumeirah
- Iconic island with luxury resorts like Atlantis The Palm.
- Enjoy water sports, fine dining, and beachfront relaxation.
- Dubai Marina
- A waterfront area with skyscrapers, yachts, and dining options.
- Take a dhow cruise for a unique experience.
- Dubai Creek & Al Fahidi Historic District
- Explore Dubai’s heritage with traditional souks, museums, and abra rides.
- Nearby: Gold Souk and Spice Souk.
- Miracle Garden
- The world’s largest natural flower garden, featuring stunning floral displays.
- A must-visit for nature lovers.
- Global Village
- A cultural and entertainment hub with pavilions from around the world.
- Great for shopping, dining, and live performances.
- Desert Safari
- Experience dune bashing, camel rides, and traditional Bedouin-style dinners.
- A thrilling adventure outside the city.
Dubai Viral Chocolates
Dubai has some of the finest chocolate brands and unique flavors. The “Dubai chocolate” is a distinctive confection crafted by FIX Dessert Chocolatier, established in 2021 by Sarah Hamouda. This artisanal chocolate bar features a milk chocolate exterior with a rich filling of pistachio cream and crispy knafeh. Knafeh is a traditional Middle Eastern dessert made from shredded phyllo dough. The combination creates a unique blend of creamy and crunchy textures.
If you want to try this viral treat, buy it directly from reputable sources in Dubai.
You should also consider purchasing from the official Fix Dessert Chocolatier. This ensures authentic and high-quality chocolate.
Chocolate Treats in Dubai
1. Mirzam Chocolate Factory
- Location: Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz.
- What’s Special: A local artisanal chocolate maker that sources cocoa beans worldwide.
- Must-Try: Single-origin chocolate bars and unique flavors like Cardamom & Coffee.
2. Patchi
- Locations: Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and other major malls.
- What’s Special: A luxury Lebanese chocolate brand known for its beautifully packaged chocolates.
- Must-Try: Assorted chocolate boxes and gold-leaf-covered chocolates.
3. Godiva
- Locations: Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and City Walk.
- What’s Special: A world-renowned Belgian chocolate brand with a wide range of treats.
- Must-Try: Chocolate-covered strawberries and truffles.
4. Chocolate Bar
- Location: The Dubai Mall (Fashion Avenue).
- What’s Special: A chic café offering chocolate-inspired dishes, desserts, and drinks.
- Must-Try: Chocolate fondue and their signature hot chocolate.
5. Forever Rose Café
- Location: Boxpark, Al Wasl Road.
- What’s Special: A rose-themed café with a menu full of chocolate desserts.
- Must-Try: Chocolate rose cake and chocolate milkshakes.
6. Chocolatier
- Location: City Walk.
- What’s Special: A boutique chocolate shop offering handcrafted chocolates and desserts.
- Must-Try: Customizable chocolate bars and pralines.
7. The Chocolate Room
- Location: Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR).
- What’s Special: A cozy café with a chocolate-focused menu.
- Must-Try: Chocolate pizza and molten lava cake.
Chocolate-Themed Experiences in Dubai
- Chocolate-Making Workshops: Learn to make your own chocolates by joining a workshop at Mirzam Chocolate Factory or The Chocolate Room.
- Chocolate Afternoon Tea: Indulge in a chocolate-themed afternoon tea at luxury hotels like The Ritz-Carlton or Burj Al Arab.
- Chocolate Festivals: Attend the Dubai Food Festival or Dubai Shopping Festival, where chocolate brands showcase their products.
Layover Itinerary
The Dubai Stopover Program
Dubai feels like it’s been plucked straight out of a sci-fi movie. My 24-hour layover there was nothing short of extraordinary. Thanks to Emirates’ Dubai Stopover Program, I turned a long layover into a mini-vacation. I explored some of the city’s most iconic attractions. Here’s how I made the most of my time, along with tips for anyone planning a similar layover.
Emirates offers a fantastic Stopover Program for travelers traveling through Dubai. Here’s why it’s worth considering:
- Free Visa: Emirates provides a complimentary visa for layovers between 10–48 hours.
- Discounted Hotels: Enjoy special rates at luxury hotels, including options near the airport or downtown.
- Tours & Activities: Access curated tours and experiences that maximize your short stay.
- Seamless Experience: Emirates handles everything, from luggage transfers to transportation.
This program is perfect for travelers who want to break up a long journey. You can explore Dubai without the hassle of planning a separate trip.
Itinerary: One Day in Dubai
1. Museum of the Future
My first stop was the Museum of the Future, a stunning architectural marvel shaped like a giant silver torus. I was transported to a world of cutting-edge technology, AI, and sustainability. The exhibits were mind-blowing, from futuristic city designs to interactive robots. It’s a must-visit for anyone fascinated by innovation.
2. Dubai Mall & The Dubai Fountain Show
After that, I went to the Dubai Mall, which was huge – the biggest in the world, actually. Its size and how fancy it was blew me away. All these designer brand stores like Chanel, Gucci, and Rolex were everywhere.
I felt like I had stepped into another world, but I couldn’t afford most of the mall, so I became a window shopper.
The highlight was the Dubai Fountain Show outside the mall. As the sun set, the fountains came alive with synchronized water jets dancing to music. Watching it with the Burj Khalifa illuminated in the background was magical.
3. Dinner at a Luxurious Restaurant
I treated myself to dinner at a high-end restaurant in the mall. The ambiance was breathtaking, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the fountain show.
Yes, the prices were high, but the food was amazing. I also had a really good chocolate dessert, which was the perfect way to end the day.
4. Burj Khalifa: At the Top
No trip to Dubai is complete without visiting the Burj Khalifa. I booked tickets to “At the Top,” the observation deck on the 124th floor. The elevator ride was part of the experience, and the views from the top were jaw-dropping. It was a surreal experience that made me feel on top of the world.
What I Suggest: 24-Hours in Dubai
- Plan Ahead: To save time, book tickets for attractions like the Burj Khalifa and Museum of the Future in advance.
- Stay Near Downtown Dubai: Choose a hotel close to the Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa for convenience.
- Prioritize Key Attractions: Focus on 2–3 major sights to avoid feeling rushed.
- Enjoy Local Cuisine: Even if you’re on a budget, try at least one local dish or dessert.
- Watch the Fountain Show: It’s free and happens every 30 minutes in the evening.
My Experience
Dubai is a city full of surprises. The modern buildings, fancy shopping centers, and cool tech blew me away. And even though the prices were a bit high, ultimately, I knew I had to come back more prepared and ready to shop till I dropped.
My 24-hour layover in Dubai was enough to get a taste of this incredible city. Each moment feels like an adventure. You might be amazed at the Burj Khalifa.
You can also explore the Museum of the Future, or you can simply soak in the atmosphere at the Dubai Mall.
5 Day Itinerary
First Day: Iconic Spots
- Visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Take the elevator to the observation deck on the 124th floor, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city.
- Head to the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world. Explore the various shops, restaurants, and entertainment options. Staying longer to watch the water show that happens every hour.
Second Day: Exhibits and Artifacts
- Visit the Dubai Museum, located in the Al Fahidi Fort. Through exhibits and artifacts, learn about Dubai’s history and culture.
- Take a traditional abra (water taxi) across Dubai Creek to the old souks (markets) in Deira. There, you can shop for spices, textiles, and jewelry.
Third Day: Beach and Gardens
- Visit the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island in the shape of a palm tree. Relax on the beach or take a dip in the sea.
- In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Miracle Garden, the world’s largest flower garden. Admire the colorful displays of flowers and take photos.
Fourth Day: Waterfront
- Visit the Dubai Marina, a trendy waterfront area. Walk along the marina promenade and enjoy the views of the skyscrapers and yachts.
- In the evening, go to the Dubai Fountain, a water and light show set to music. Watch the fountain show from the Burj Khalifa Lake promenade.
Fifth Day: Desert Safari
- In the afternoon, go on a desert safari.
- Experience dune bashing, camel riding, and a traditional Bedouin dinner with entertainment.
Travel Resources
Resources to Use While You Plan
These are core guides and tools you can use for almost any trip, from picking a destination to mapping your route and making more time to travel.
All Itineraries & Trips
A central hub of long-weekend guides, Detty December routes, solo trips, and country itineraries you can copy and tweak.
Open itineraries hub →Solo Travel Starter Guide
A full solo travel hub with safety tips, destination ideas, and resources if you’re planning to travel on your own.
Open solo travel guide →Group Travel & Hosted Trips
Explore hosted group trips and trusted partner trips if you’d rather join a group instead of planning alone.
See travel options →COI Travel Network
A central page for solo, group, agency, and travel update links, so you can plug into my wider travel ecosystem.
Explore the network →How to Take More Time Off
A practical guide on stacking weekends, holidays, and smart PTO so you can travel more without quitting your job.
Read time-off tips →Trip Consultation Call
Need help with route, timing, or where to stay? Book a call and we can walk through your trip plan together.
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