Dubai is one of the crown jewels of the United Arab Emirates, along with Abu Dhabi, especially when it comes to business and leisure. Reports highlight how the Emirate saw a whopping 9.31 million global overnight visitors in H1 2024 (9% growth from the year-ago period). One of the biggest reasons behind the growth in corporate travel to Dubai is the wide range of business events that it hosts, including Gulfood, Arabian Travel Market, and the Dubai Shopping Festival. 

There are always plenty of things to do in Dubai with multiple architectural landmarks and cultural places to visit, along with enjoying the desert, Arabian Gulf, and the buzzing nightlife. Dubai has super-busy airports and thriving sectors like technology, green energy, finance, real estate, logistics, etc. 

Corporate Traveler’s Guide to Dubai: After Work

Planning an evening/night or day out in Dubai can be confusing since the city has almost limitless activities/attractions. That’s why we have curated this blog in detail about the best things you can do to relax and unwind after work. This blog provides a brief about what you can do if you’re visiting Dubai for work. After all, we all love unwinding after a hectic day at the office, right? Here are some tips on how to make the most of your after-work hours in the Emirate. 
On that note- let’s check out some useful info for you during your stay here. 

Best Time to Go Dubai 

You should ideally visit Dubai between November and March, which is also the season for tourists. Winter kind of starts from mid-December and the pleasant weather conditions stay till late in March. Of course, there’s some chance of rain but not enough to be a dampener. 
Peak winter temperatures can go down to 12°C while the maximum is around 25°C. The entire Nov-March period is also ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and exploring the city. 

All of Dubai's famous places come alive during this time, with several events and festivals brightening the cityscape. This period is ideal for enjoying comforting winter sunshine while staying away from the scorching heat that descends on the Emirate from April onwards. Do note that this is a high peak time for tourists to visit Dubai with family, so book your stay in Dubai prior to arrival to get the best deal.

Getting Around Dubai 

Once you’ve zeroed in on the places to go out in Dubai, you’ll need to smartly use public transportation facilities to make the best of your time after work. 
The public transport system in Dubai (as you’ll discover) has everything from metros and water taxis/ferries to buses and more. Make sure you’ve got the 'nol card' which is rechargeable, affordable, and usable across trams, taxis, metro, and buses. 

Metro

• There are two lines (Green and Red) running from the International Airport and key areas along Sheikh Zayed Road. 
• Corporate hubs like Business Bay, Dubai Marina, Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, and Jebel Ali Industrial Area are covered. 
• You can purchase day-pass, return, or single tickets. 

Tram

• You can hop onto trams on Al Sufouh Road and near the Dubai Marina (which connects the Metro and areas like Palm Jumeirah) via monorail. 

Taxis/Ride-Hailing Apps

• You can take a cab almost anywhere in Dubai or order your taxi via phone. 
• Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem are widely used as well. 

Car Rentals

• If you have a packed schedule for the day, consider renting a car for a few hours.
• Self-drive rental services like eKar and Udrive are also available, although you should have an international driving license.
• Make sure you’re familiar with Dubai driving styles and local laws before you go ahead. 

By Air 

• Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the main airport (the busiest in the world) and there’s another one at Dubai South, namely the Al Maktoum International Airport that’s coming up. 
• The former is well-connected to top business districts through buses, taxis, and the Dubai Metro. For example, there’s the Red Line from Terminals 1 and 3 to the city centre and the Green Line links to the Airport Free Zone business district. 
• The Green Line also connects to Al Twar, central Deira, Al Nahda Street and other commercial hubs. 

Must-Visit Famous Places in Dubai 

Let us say it again- Dubai has quite a few landmarks in store, all of which you probably won’t be able to cover in one trip. So, here’s a list of must-visits if it’s your first time. 

1. Burj Khalifa

Visit the tallest building in the world, offering once-in-a-lifetime views from the Top, the outdoor observation deck. It is a modern-day marvel worth exploring for sure! 
How to Reach- You can reach via the Red Line of the Dubai Metro (Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station) or take a bus/taxi. 

Tips:  Buy your tickets beforehand online to avoid the rush. The best time to visit is anytime between 4-6 PM for fabulous sunset views. You can also go early in the morning for a more peaceful experience. 

2. Dubai Mall

One of the world’s biggest malls, the Dubai Mall offers fabulous attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo which houses 33,000+ marine species. There’s also the massive Dubai Ice Rink, Dubai Fountain Show, Kidzania, and the world’s biggest brands to look forward to. 

How to Reach- The Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa metro station is the nearest one. You can take the Metro Link Bridge walkway to enter the mall. 27 and 29 route buses stop here as well. 

Tips:  Visit outside of the weekends to avoid the crowds. You can travel in the early afternoon or mid-morning on weekdays. 

3. Palm Jumeirah

The world-famous palm-shaped island is a manmade marvel, whether you see it from above (while skydiving) or on land. It is an engineering masterpiece dotted with fabulous homes, resorts, beach clubs, restaurants, malls, shops, and more. 

How to Reach- You can take the Red Line to the Dubai Internet City/Nakheel station and hop onto a bus/taxi to reach. The monorail runs from 9 AM to 10 PM every day. 

Tips:

• Don’t miss Atlantis, The Palm with its Aquaventure and dining options, in addition to the Dubai Balloon.
• You can book sunbeds at AURA SkyPool or check out The View at The Palm.
• Palm Jumeirah is a dream stay for everyone visiting Dubai. Explore your accommodation in Palm Jumeirah to select your choice of stay.

4. Dubai Marina

The Dubai Marina cuts a pretty picture with its lovely yachts and skyscrapers, in tandem with plenty of dining choices. You can take a Dhow boat ride or cruise on the waters and frolic on The Beach (opposite JBR’s The Walk) with its 70+ dining and shopping choices. 

How to Reach- Get off at the DMCC/Sobha Realty metro station. Another option is the JLT station which is within walking distance from the Dubai Marina Mall. There are RTA buses and trams available too. 

Tips: 

• Explore Bluewaters Island (home to Caesars Palace and the Cove Beach Club) nearby along with the Dubai Marina Walk with its must-visit Bateel Cafe.
• Check out Pier 7 and the Dubai Marina Mall while ziplining here if you’re passionate about adventure (XLine Dubai Marina). 

Day Out in Dubai: Full Weekend Plans 

Here’s your corporate travel guide to enjoying the weekend at leisure. 

1. Desert Safari

Head out on a safari as you enjoy dune-bashing in a 4x4 before camping in the desert for some refreshments. Other activities may include sandboarding, henna, falconry, camel riding, and cultural performances. 

Tips: Book a tour where you’ll be picked up from your hotel with a guide in tow. Several companies offer safaris at varying budgets, with add-ons including hot air balloon flights, overnight stays, and more. Also, make sure you pack warmer clothes (November-March) if you’re going in the evening. 

2. Dhow Cruises

How about letting your hair down and zipping on the Arabian Gulf? Let all that work stress vanish with these amazing cruises, usually air-conditioned, and with fabulous cultural performances for guests. Enjoy delicious food and beverages as you explore the Marina Canal or Dubai Creek. You can also opt for a sightseeing tour of landmarks like the Palm Islands, Burj Khalifa, and Heritage Village. 

Tips: There are several packages with unlimited food and beverages, along with add-ons. Compare prices carefully before booking. 

3. Museum of the Future

This is just the right attraction for a fun-filled weekend. It lies along the Sheikh Zayed Road and was founded in 2022. The key philosophy is the evolution of society in the future based on technology and science. You’ll be amazed at the fabulous exhibits and immersive experiences including OSS Hope, The Heal Institute, Tomorrow Today, Al Waha, and Future Heroes. 

Tips: Book your tickets (AED 149) well in advance through the official website. You will have to choose your time slot while booking and aim to arrive 15-30 minutes before to collect the tickets and enter. Reach via the metro Red Line (Emirates Tower stop) or take a bus (27, X22, and 29 routes). 

4. Bayside Relaxation

Up for a relaxing time away from the rigour of corporate life? Dubai offers amazing bayside dining and entertainment options that you can consider. You’ll find them along the Marina including the Bakehouse Lobby Cafe, Treehouse (rooftop), Piccolo Mondo Bay, Joe’s Cafe, and the Boardwalk. 

Tips: Try to book your table in advance to avoid the crowds and rush. Some joints also offer amazing Shisha and traditional Arabian coffee that you simply must try! 

Evening Activities After Work

You’ll discover numerous things to do in the evening after work in Dubai. The city comes alive spectacularly after sunset and here are some of our top recommendations: 

1. Dubai Fountain Show

How does watching the world’s tallest performing fountain sound? Exciting, right? You bet! Witness water jets dispelling a massive 22,000 gallons up to 140 metres to the beats of famous soundtracks. What’s more, you can book an abra ride for an amazing experience up close, while winding up with dinner at the nearby Time Out Market with its variety of choices. 

Tips: 

• The show starts at 6 PM (runs every 30 minutes) and you will get the best views from the Dubai Fountain Boardwalk or the Souk Al Bahar.
• Another way to watch it is the waterfront promenade.
• The Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall metro station is the best way to reach and if you’re coming from the World Trade Centre, just take the line 29 bus. 

2. Souks: Exploring Gold Souk or Spice Souk

Dubai is famous for its Spice and Gold Souks. Bargain all you want and spend a relaxing evening scouring deals on jewellery, exotic spices, souvenirs, and a lot more. 

Tips:

• Don’t miss the abra ride to the spice souk from Dubai Creek on the other side.
• It’s also recommended that you check out the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood with its traditional architecture.
• The Souk timings are usually between 8 AM and 9 PM and you can access the Spice Souk via the Al Ras metro station. 

3. Fine Dining

Indulge in a fabulous fine dining experience that pampers your taste buds. Dubai’s got plenty of marvels in this department too! Savor the best of Japanese cuisine at Zuma with its Ishigaki Wine Room, robata and sushi counters, and more. Enjoy the private pier and stunning views at Pierchic with its Italian and seafood treats. If you feel adventurous, try the six-course blind-tasting menu here for an instant adrenaline boost! 

Then there’s Chef Himanshu Saini’s TresInd Studio (two Michelin stars) worth checking out along with LPM Restaurant which offers scintillating French specialties, to name just a few. 

4. Sky Views Observatory

The Sky Views Observatory promises a thrilling experience with its gorgeous skyline and Downtown Dubai views. Find it at the Address Sky View Hotel where it’s part of the famous trio, also including the Edge Walk and Glass Slide. 

Do book your tickets in advance to avoid the rush. Timings are 10 AM-10 PM each day and you can enjoy a networking session or simply some personal time at the hotel below.  

Conclusion 

There are indeed more things to do in Dubai than you can explore on a single trip, let alone a couple of days. Yet, you can always get the best of what the Emirate has to offer with our recommendations above. Check out all these daytime and evening activities that help you de-stress and unwind after work or on the weekends.

If you're looking for a place near major corporate/business hubs and tourist landmarks, explore a portfolio of Apartments in Dubai that are reasonably priced and offer great amenities.