Dubai is the ultimate playground of modern ambition — the world's tallest building, largest mall, and most luxurious hotel all in one city. For Indians, Dubai is among the easiest international destinations: 3-hour direct flights, visa on arrival, and a city that blends Arabic grandeur with contemporary global culture.
Dubai Visa for Indians
Indian passport holders receive a visa on arrival in Dubai (UAE) valid for 14 days, extendable to 30 days:
- Fee: AED 100 on arrival (approx. ₹2,300) for 14 days
- Or apply online for a 30-day tourist visa: AED 300 (₹6,900) — easier to process
- No minimum bank balance requirement; just carry your return ticket and hotel booking
Top Things to Do in Dubai
Burj Khalifa — At the Top
The world's tallest building (828m) has two observation decks: Level 124 (AED 149 online, AED 300 walk-in) and Level 148 — "The Lounge" (AED 599). Book Level 124 for sunrise (6–9 am) or sunset (4–8 pm) slots — the most dramatic light. The view of the Dubai Fountain at night from Level 124 is stunning.
Desert Safari
Dubai's desert safari is among the most thrilling 6-hour experiences in the world: dune bashing in 4WDs, sandboarding, camel riding, falconry, henna painting, a Bedouin camp dinner with belly dancing, and a star-lit sky over the dunes. Cost: AED 200–400 per person (₹4,500–9,000) — book through your hotel or Viator.
Dubai Mall & Fountain
The world's largest mall has 1,200 shops, an indoor ice rink, an aquarium, and the Dubai Fountain — a choreographed water show that runs every 30 minutes after dark (free to watch from the waterfront promenade). Worth an entire afternoon.
Old Dubai: Deira & Bastakiya
Cross the Creek by abra (wooden water taxi, AED 1) from Deira to Bur Dubai. Explore the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and the atmospheric Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (Bastakiya). Authentic, affordable, and a world away from the modern towers of Downtown Dubai.
Palm Jumeirah
Take the monorail to the Atlantis Hotel for Aquaventure Waterpark (AED 400). The Palm Fountain at Palm Jumeirah is the world's largest fountain. Dinner at NOBU or one of the many celebrity restaurants in the Atlantis is a splurge worth considering.
5-Day Dubai Itinerary
| Day | Focus | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 | Arrive + Downtown | Burj Khalifa sunset, Dubai Fountain, Dubai Mall |
| Day 2 | Desert Safari | Full-day dune bashing, camel, BBQ dinner |
| Day 3 | Old Dubai | Gold Souk, Spice Souk, abra ride, Bastakiya |
| Day 4 | Palm + JBR Beach | Atlantis, Jumeirah Beach, The Walk promenade |
| Day 5 | Shopping + Depart | Dubai Mall, last shopping, airport |
Budget for Dubai (per couple, 5 nights)
| Item | Budget | Mid-Range | Luxury |
|---|---|---|---|
| Return flights from Bangalore | ₹14,000 | ₹22,000 | ₹50,000 |
| 5 nights hotel | ₹35,000 | ₹80,000 | ₹2,50,000 |
| Food & beverages | ₹12,000 | ₹25,000 | ₹60,000 |
| Activities & transport | ₹20,000 | ₹35,000 | ₹70,000 |
| Total per couple | ₹81,000 | ₹1,62,000 | ₹4,30,000 |
Ready to Book This Trip?
Our travel experts will plan every detail — flights, hotels, visa & experiences — at the best prices.
Get a Free Quote in 2 Hours →