A Dream Dubai Holiday within 24 hours (Impossible but we try)

If you have only 24 hours in Dubai, you'll struggle to fit everything in, but let's make the most of it and have some fun, shall we?

I've just returned from an action-packed holiday in Dubai with Blue Lotus Vacations UK and had the smoothest booking process ever, which was surprising. It was my first time in the city, a city I'd been fascinated by for a while. A man-made skyscraper city built in a desert? Not so long ago, there were sand dunes where the city's malls and hotels now lie. With just a few days there, I was excited to see and do it all!

I wanted to see the aerial views of the city from the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and I also wanted to play in the snow at Ski Dubai. Running down the sand dunes on a desert safari and shopping till I dropped at the Dubai Mall with a touch of relaxation at a luxury hotel was definitely on my bucket list. Putting everything together for you to visit Dubai was a tough job, but still, I try!

People don't associate Dubai with history, but believe me, there's a lovely old town just waiting to be explored. The Bastakia Quarter is a wonderful place to start your time in the city, digging the ancient buildings, checking out the textile and spice souks and then catching an abra (a traditional boat) across Dubai Creek. Once across, you're moments from the city's famous gold souk. The window exhibitions are impressive, with necklaces, rings and even full-body outfits made from pure gold! Watch out; you don't spend all your recess money before lunchtime!

There’s no reason to visit Dubai without experiencing the Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa. Standing at 828 meters, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. As you explore Dubai, you'll encounter many skyscrapers, but the Burj Khalifa creates an illusion that makes them look like Lego models!

A standard ticket allows you to visit the 124th and 125th floors, but if you book a ticket for "At The Top Sky," you'll access the highest observation deck in the world on the 148th floor, which is 555 meters up. The views from the Burj Khalifa are absolutely spectacular.

For first-time travelers, the Dubai Mall is the largest mall in the world, featuring over 1,200 shops, more than 120 dining options, a 22-screen cinema, an aquarium, an ice rink, and many fascinating artworks—plus plenty more that I probably didn’t even discover! Be sure to stroll down Fashion Avenue to find designer stores with fashion to suit every budget.

The Dubai Desert Safari is another must-do activity in Dubai, and you guys may know this, but I'll also briefly describe my experience. After being picked up in a 4×4, we drive out of the city to the sand dunes for an exciting ride! The adventurous journey will take you soaring over the endless dunes, providing a fresh perspective on your Dubai holiday.There are many great spots for photos, plus the guides will take you to the highest place in the dunes to watch the sunset. Passing camels and desert camps, this is the glow of the city's bright lights.

A visit to the beach should definitely follow a sandy ride, right? Dubai boasts many beautiful beaches to explore. If you're staying at a luxury hotel by the beach, you can enjoy the private area with calm waters, sun loungers, and personalized service. For an authentic Dubai beach experience, check out JBR Beach, where you can swim just moments away from the towering skyscrapers. Alternatively, visit Jumeirah Public Beach for stunning views of the Instagram-worthy Burj Al Arab.

How would a bonfire feel to end your day? Forget bonfire night; the illuminated fountain outside the Dubai Mall (and in front of the Burj Khalifa) is as good as any fireworks show! There are displays choreographed to music every thirty minutes from 6 pm until 11 pm. It's fun, attractive, and a great way to end a round of your day in the city.

Last year, when I went to Dubai, I went to all the bars, clubs, and parties, but none of the historical stuff! I made it happen this time, and I'd definitely recommend booking your holiday to Dubai with Blue Lotus Vacations UK, so that I can explore however I want, plus a personalised tour package, which is really thoughtful. All-inclusive holidays to Dubai are also available if you plan to spend a few days there. I'll be back with another piece of experience on my Dubai trip. Stay tuned!