Dubai Travel Guide For A Foodie and Adventure Experience
Photography by Patrycja Smol
Dubai is a city that defies expectations. A shimmering mirage rising from the desert where the juxtaposition of the old and the new, and the Eastern and Western seamlessly collide. Where you can sip Arabic coffee in a centuries-old souk one moment and dine in a cloud-piercing skyscraper the next.
When embarking on this journey I had a vague sense of what to expect but my expectations were far exceeded. As an avid traveller and a massive foodie, Dubai ticked a lot of adventure and culinary boxes for me. It is a feast for the senses, a city where every experience feels carefully curated, yet still retains an undercurrent of something raw and real. Beyond its glossy exterior lies a city rich in sensory experiences: the harmonious flavours of a well-crafted mezze, the tranquil silence of a palm-shaded courtyard, and the aromatic allure of cardamom wafting through bustling souks.
Dubai In 5 Days
I spent 5 days exploring Dubai and while it’s a great place to add to your travel bucket list, it also made me think about how easy it would be to move there. With its seamless blend of Middle Eastern charm and Western comforts, Dubai would make the transition effortless. The infrastructure is top-tier, the standard of living elevated, and Western luxuries abound.
From Michelin restaurants and sprawling malls to high-end gyms, and a sense of safety that’s unmatched. Getting to Dubai from Toronto is also made easy with Air Canada. I took a direct flight there and back and it was comfortable, and felt much quicker than the almost 13 hour journey on the way there. If you’re able to upgrade and get lounge access as well, definitely go for it. I’ve been to many different airports around the world and the Dubai lounge that AC business class gives you access to, is in a league of its own.
While there is a lot more I would have liked to pack into my first Dubai trip, there are only so many hours in a day so here is my itinerary when visiting Dubai on a culinary and adventure trip.
Where To Stay
Dubai is a city that does hospitality like nowhere else, and its hotels are often destinations in their own right. Whether you’re traveling with kids, looking for elevated luxury on a budget, or indulging in an ultra-luxe escape, there’s an array of options for everyone. And one thing I quickly learned is that no matter where you check in, Dubai takes breakfast seriously. Think freshly baked pastries, traditional Arabic mezze, dim sum, made-to-order omelettes and food from other corners of the world. While there are plenty of hotel options to choose from here are four options to suit every type of traveler.
The Paramount Hotel – Luxury Without The Price Tag
For a stylish stay that won’t break the bank, The Paramount Hotel offers Hollywood-inspired luxury at a more accessible price point. Located in Business Bay, it combines sleek, cinematic interiors with top-tier amenities, including a rooftop pool, high-end dining, and a boutique cinema. Its convenient location makes it a great base for exploring the city. Dubai Mall is just a 20-30 minute walk away for those up for a stroll, or a quick cab ride for those who’d rather save their energy for shopping. The Paramount hotel offers the perfect balance of indulgence and affordability, making it ideal for travellers who want a touch of glam without the ultra-luxury price tag.
Atlantis The Palm – Ideal For Family Stays
If you’re traveling with kids, Atlantis The Palm is a great choice with plenty to do for adults and kids alike. With its sprawling Aquaventure Waterpark, The Lost Chambers Aquarium, Wavehouse Arcade and sports bar and plenty of dining options, there’s no shortage of entertainment. The rooms and suites are spacious and offer beautiful views of the Arabian Gulf or the Palm Jumeirah.
There’s no shortage of activities at Atlantis the Palm, so much so that you really don’t need to leave the hotel. For water lovers spend a day at the waterpark thrill-seeking on some world-record holding rides, or come face to face with sharks, stingrays and plenty of fish in the AquaTrek Xtreme Experience, which lets you descend 10 meters into the world’s deepest Aquatrek. Atlantis The Palm also boasts some standout dining options, including the Michelin-starred Ossiano, Nobu, and Hakkasan to name a few.
Atlantis The Royal – The Newest Luxury Resort
If you’re after something a little more for adults, Atlantis The Royal takes luxury to another level. Towering above the Palm Jumeirah, this architectural marvel is Dubai’s newest ultra-luxury resort, offering some of the most breathtaking skyline views in the city. The infinity sky pool, cutting-edge wellness facilities, and designer suites (many with private pools) make it a haven for those seeking indulgence.
Dining here is an experience in itself, with Ling Ling providing a rooftop cocktail scene with unbeatable views, while Dinner by Heston Blumenthal, Jaleo by José Andrés, and La Mar by Gastón Acurio redefine fine dining in Dubai. Whether you’re staying at Atlantis The Royal or just visiting for drinks and dinner, it’s a great hotel to visit. Shuttles can easily transport you between Atlantis the Palm and Atlantis the Royal or you can also walk for about 15-20 minutes. Fun fact: Atlantis The Royal was voted number 9 on the Worlds Best Hotels list in 2024.
One&Only The Palm – Unwind in Ultra-Luxury
For those craving an ultra-luxurious escape, One&Only The Palm is Dubai at its most exclusive. Nestled on a private stretch of beach, this resort exudes serenity with Moroccan-inspired architecture, lush gardens, and stunning oceanfront villas. The world-class Guerlain Spa, Michelin-star dining by Yannick Alléno, and impeccable service make it a retreat like no other.
If you’re looking for refined elegance and total privacy, this is the place to be. While I didn’t stay here, I popped by for a cappuccino and a green juice one morning while overlooking the serene pool, skyline and beach beyond. Oh and did I mention that they have adorable bunnies roaming the property just because? The One&Only seemingly spares no details.
Where To Eat
Dubai’s culinary scene is a vibrant tapestry woven from its rich cultural heritage and innovative spirit. From Michelin-starred establishments to authentic Emirati eateries, the city offers a gastronomic journey that caters to every palate. Here are five must-visit dining experiences that showcase the city’s diverse food scene.
Orfali Bros
Tucked away in the artistic district of Wasl 51, Orfali Bros Bistro is a masterclass in modern Middle Eastern cuisine. The brainchild of three Syrian brothers, this Michelin-starred restaurant is where nostalgia and innovation collide. Named The Best Restaurant in the Middle East & North Africa 2025 for the third consecutive year, and with due reason. The menu is deeply personal, weaving together their heritage with fearless innovation.
We came here for dinner and every dish was truly a standout. Each bite sized portion that came out offered a medley of flavours that worked in perfect harmony together. Every dish here is a revelation: silky hummus reimagined with Japanese influences, melt-in-your-mouth wagyu kebabs laced with smoked butter, charred eggplant with a whisper of tahini and sumac. At Orfali Bros, the food is deeply rooted in tradition yet fearlessly modern. Please note if you’re visiting Dubai to book this reservation far in advance.
Arabian Tea House
AL FAHIDI STREET, BUR DUBAI, UAE
To immerse yourself in authentic Emirati culture, you have to taste its past. A visit to the Arabian Tea House is essential, where recipes have been passed down through generations. Established in 1997 in the Al Fahidi Historical District, the ambiance is warm and inviting. The setting itself is steeped in history; this location was once a pearl diver’s house, built from coral reef and stones, with white pebbles recreating the shell-strewn sands of old Arabian homes.
The menu is a love letter to Emirati heritage, enriched by influences from the region’s vibrant trade history. Chefs from India, Nepal, Pakistan, Syria, and Egypt contribute their expertise, blending flavors that feel both familiar and new. The food is simple yet profound: slow-cooked lamb machboos, fragrant with saffron and dried lime. mouthwatering chicken Biryani with aromatic gulf spices and served with yogurt. Crisp, golden samosas, their edges crimped with care, ready to shatter at the first bite. A salad bursting with pomegranate seeds, sharp and sweet against the bitter greens. And, of course, falafel; perfectly crisp on the outside, soft and herbaceous on the inside. It’s a place where time slows down, where every bite carries the weight of history and the warmth of home.
Fi’lia
SLS Dubai Hotel & Residences – Marasi Dr – Business Bay – Dubai – United Arab Emirates
If you’re craving honest, rustic Italian food with a feminine touch, Fi’lia at the SLS Hotel is where you need to be. Helmed by an all-female team, this Michelin Bib Gourmand restaurant celebrates the essence of Italian cooking: simplicity, and quality ingredients. Wood-fired pizzas arrive blistered and bubbling, topped with the kind of San Marzano tomatoes that taste like they were kissed by the sun. Handmade pastas, from silky pappardelle to pillowy gnocchi, are coated in rich, slow-simmered sauces.
It’s Italian food in its purest form with no unnecessary frills, just respect for tradition and an unwavering dedication to flavour. Not only is the food divine but I also love that the menu is broken down into three sections, respecting 3 generations of women. Nonna, Mamma, and Figlia– the grandmother, the mother, and the daughter– each representing a different evolution of Italian cooking.
Ariana’s Persian Kitchen
Atlantis The Royal – Crescent Rd – Palm Jumeirah – Dubai
Prior to going to Dubai, one restaurant recommendation that I kept hearing over and over again was Ariana’s Persian Kitchen. Stepping into Ariana’s Persian Kitchen at Atlantis The Royal feels like entering a modern-day Persian palace. The decor exudes the feminine touch of its head Chef Ariana Bundy and the air is fragrant with saffron, barberries, and fire-grilled meats. The restaurant takes a vibrant, contemporary approach to classic Iranian dishes and I could eat here over and over again.
The saffron rice, jeweled with pomegranate and pistachios, releases clouds of aromatic steam. Lamb kebabs, perfectly charred, melt with the first bite, their smokiness balanced by a tangy yogurt sauce. And then there’s the fesenjan; a stew of pomegranate, walnuts, and slow-cooked duck, its deep, velvety richness both comforting and luxurious. Ariana’s offers Persian cuisine that is elevated, yet still deeply soulful.
Hakkasan
The Palm – Atlantis The Palm, Dubai – Crescent Rd – Dubai
No matter where I am in the world, I always love to make a stop at Hakkasan. There’s something about the consistency of how great the food always is that brings me comfort when abroad. Located in the Atlantis The Palm, this Michelin-starred restaurant blends traditional techniques with contemporary elegance. The result? A dining experience that is as refined as it is indulgent where you can’t go wrong with what you order.
The crispy duck salad, tossed with pine nuts and pomelo, hits the perfect notes of crunch and citrus. Dim Sum with kaffir lime lobster har gau, abalone and chicken shui mai with caviar, truffle Chilean seabass, Wagyu beef preserved mustard, arrive as tiny, edible masterpieces. The grilled Chilean seabass with honey has a buttery flesh that breaks apart at the lightest touch. We ended the mains with a wok-fried Mongolian beef, which has tender slices of beef, seared to perfection, coated in a rich, smoky glaze. Hakassan Dubai is a must add to your list, especially if you love Cantonese cuisine.
What To Do
When coming to Dubai there’s no shortage of activities for even the most discerning of travelers. Whether you’re wandering through traditional souks, ascending the world’s tallest building, or immersing yourself in cutting-edge digital art, Dubai offers something for everyone. From history to high-tech, adventure to indulgence, here are some of the fun and cultural things I got up to while in town.
Explore the Souk Markets: Textile, Gold & Spices
Dubai’s Spice Souk is a sensory overload in the best way possible. Inside the souk, the air is thick with the scent of saffron, cardamom, dried rose petals. Baskets overflow with turmeric roots, licorice sticks, frankincense, and mysterious powders that promise beauty, strength, or at the very least, a good cup of tea. Above, mosaic lanterns hang in bursts of color, casting warm, flickering light over merchants haggling in Arabic, Hindi, Farsi, and English. It’s chaotic, it’s intoxicating, and it’s the closest you’ll come to feeling like you’ve stepped into Dubai before the skyscrapers.
Nearby, the Textile Souk invites you to skim through an endless selection of raw silk, cotton, and embroidered fabrics. Then there’s the Gold Souk, a dazzling maze of storefronts displaying intricately designed gold, platinum, and diamond jewelry. Whether you’re browsing or buying, visiting the Souks offers a great taste of a more cultural experience.
Create Your Own Signature Scent at Oo La Lab
At Oo La Lab, is a craft fragrance lab that allows you to blend your own signature scent. From smoky ouds to fresh florals, every bottle tells a personal story. A truly unique way to take a piece of Dubai home with you.
Concert at Expo City Dubai
While in Dubai, I got the ultimate taste of nostalgia by getting to see Green Day and Offspring at this 30,000-capacity open-air venue. The mix of nostalgia, energy, and just getting to dance outdoors in the warmth while Toronto was covered in snow made this show unforgettable.
If you’re in town, be sure check out the lineup! Big-name artists sometimes take the stage here, and the food trucks on-site offer everything from gourmet burgers to Middle Eastern street food, making it a delicious experience too.They also have a number of other activities you can do there so be sure to check out their website.
See Dubai From the Top: Burj Khalifa
You can’t visit Dubai without standing atop the world’s tallest building. The Burj Khalifa’s observation decks on Levels 124 and 125 give you an unforgettable panoramic view of the city, the desert, and the Arabian Gulf. At 456 meters high, it’s the ultimate photo op, but also a chance to appreciate the sheer ambition that built this city.
The view is unmatched with the skyline sprawling in the hazy morning heat when I paid it a visit. I would also recommend going here earlier in the day as the lines tend to get much bigger as the day progresses.
Step Into a Digital Wonderland at ARTE Museum Dubai
Presented by d’strict, the ARTE Museum Dubai is an immersive digital art exhibition that explores the theme of ‘Eternal Nature.’ The space blends technology, art, and nature into larger-than-life, multi-sensory installations; Think crashing waterfalls, blooming flowers, and glowing galaxies.
It’s futuristic, and a departure from a traditional museum experiences. I spent some time in some of the rooms just sitting and doing some breathwork because quite honestly the visuals and sounds do put you in a very relaxed almost trance like state if you embrace it.
Discover the Past at Al Shindagha Museum
Before the skyscrapers, there was the Dubai Creek, and along its banks stands Al Shindagha Museum. The museum offers a beautifully curated journey through Emirati heritage, innovation, and resilience. The exhibits dive into Dubai’s maritime history, pearl diving legacy, and the deep connections between the UAE and its neighbouring cultures.
It’s an honest glimpse into the city’s roots, told through immersive storytelling and interactive displays. I particularly enjoyed learning more about Dubai and peeling the layers beyond the glitz and glamour.
Explore What’s Ahead For Humanity at Museum of the Future
This architectural masterpiece allows you to experience what’s to come. The journey begins with a simulated flight into space, leading you through levels that explore climate innovation, AI advancements, and human potential.
My favorite stop? The Al Waha floor, where a meditative sound healing and relaxation session left me feeling completely recharged. It was a great start to my morning and a calming contrast to Dubai’s usual high-energy buzz. Be sure to stop by and chat with Ameca, the robot with very human-like features for a unique experience.
Step Between Past & Future at The Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is part architectural feat, part perfect metaphor. On one side, you look out over Old Dubai; the souks, the Creek, the remnants of a fishing village that once defined this land. On the other, the futuristic skyline of Downtown Dubai, a city that never stops reinventing itself. Step inside, and you’re standing in the liminal space between history and ambition, a literal and symbolic snapshot of Dubai’s transformation.
Take the elevator to the top to really capture the view of the world old and new. Once you’re done, make a pitstop at the Camelicious food truck out front. I wasn’t sure if I would enjoy camel ice cream but it was really tasty!
Watch a Show at La Perle
Dubai doesn’t do small-scale entertainment, and La Perle is proof. Created by Franco Dragone (the mastermind behind Cirque du Soleil), this high-energy, gravity-defying show features acrobats, aerialists, and stunt performers diving into a pool of water, all inside a state-of-the-art aqua theatre. The show is a fun way to get your evening started.
Unwind with a Massage and Beachside Lunch at Nikki Beach
After days of exploring, unwind at Nikki Spa inside the luxurious Nikki Beach Resort. With private spa suites, a Hammam, sauna, steam room, ice fountain, and a vitality pool, it’s a sanctuary of relaxation.
Whether you opt for a deep-tissue massage, a Hammam ritual, or just some time in the serene indoor-outdoor lounges, this is the ultimate way to recharge in Dubai’s signature style, effortless and indulgent. I opted for a deep tissue massage followed by a delicious sushi lunch outside overlooking the pristine beach front.
Hidden Gems
Dubai is a city of contrasts between the ultra-glamorous and the deeply traditional, and the futuristic and the timeless. Sure, there are the glossy high-rises and Michelin-starred restaurants, but there’s also a side of Dubai that feels more intimate, more unexpected. A night under the desert stars, sipping spiced tea by an open fire. A hidden shawarma joint recommended by a top chef. Here are some of the hidden gems I discovered during my travels in Dubai.
Platinum Heritage Safari: A Journey Into the Old Dubai
Long before the skyscrapers, before the glitzy hotels and Michelin-starred meals, there was only the desert. For a few hours, the Platinum Heritage Safari transports you to that world.
The journey begins with a nature safari through the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, where your guide explains how the Bedouin lived on the land. As the sun begins to dip, a falconry experience takes place as you sip on a sweet tea and soak it all in.
And then comes the best part: dinner under the open sky. The city, with all its noise, is gone. In its place, a campfire crackles, its glow flickering off low-slung cushions and tables, with palms swaying in the night breeze creating a setting that feels ancient and unshaken by time. Here, stories are meant to be told over sweet tea, laughter shared over plates of fragrant, slow-cooked meats.
The scent of grilled meats, cardamom, and burning wood thick in the air. A Yola dancer moves to the steady beat of drumming, a performance that feels more like a ritual than entertainment. For a moment, you forget the world you just left behind. I would highly recommend paying this safari a visit. It’s about an hour from the city and well worth the trip.
Rawabi Al Sham: A Michelin-Chef Recommended Shawarma
One of the best things about traveling is finding out where chefs eat when no one’s watching. In Dubai, that means skipping the high end restaurants and heading straight for Rawabi Al Sham. Rawabi Al Sham was recommended to me by one of the Orfali Bros (which is all the endorsement I needed.)
I ordered the meat shawarma sandwich which came in a delicious warm, slightly charred pita, layers of perfectly seasoned meat, fresh herbs, a smear of garlic sauce, and a hit of vegetables to cut through the richness. It’s clean, fresh, deeply satisfying. It was the the kind of bites that reminded me that food doesn’t have to be complicated to be great.
Dubai Souks & Creekside Food Walk with Frying Pan Adventures
If you really want to understand a city, you have to eat your way through it. Frying Pan Adventures makes it easy to do just that. Their Creekside Food Walk isn’t a tour so much as a moving feast, winding through Dubai’s historic souks. Somewhere between bites, your guide paints a picture of Old Dubai, the immigrants who shaped its food scene, the spice traders who turned a quiet fishing village into a global crossroads. One of my favourite stops was the Al Shaiba bakery.
Tucked into the Gold Souk in Deira the place is entirely unassuming. Just a few men working fast, kneading, rolling, baking, sending trays of golden-brown bread into the tandoor and pulling them out seconds later, blistered and perfect. I had the honey and cheese bread, which may sound simple but that’s the beauty of it. The fresh bread and flavours speak for themselves.
Dubai is the kind of place that lingers long after you’ve left. It’s a city of contrasts but that’s where its uniqueness stems from. In just five days, I felt like I’d only scratched the surface, yet it was enough to know that Dubai is a destination that can cater to all sorts of different tastes. Whether you’re visiting for adventure, food, or simply to soak in the energy of a city unlike any other, Dubai delivers, and then some.