Our journey began at New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport, where my wife, two kids, and I boarded an Emirates A380 bound for Dubai. The excitement of our long-awaited vacation to Bangalore, India, was finally taking flight—quite literally.
As we settled into our seats on the 13-hour journey, the kids were thrilled by the entertainment system (thank you, Emirates!) while my wife and I took the opportunity to unwind. With comfortable seats, great meals, and hours of in-flight entertainment, the long-haul didn’t feel so long after all.
We touched down in Dubai International Airport (DXB) just after sunset. The moment we stepped into the terminal, it was clear—we weren’t just in any airport. We were in one of the world’s busiest and most luxurious travel hubs. Sparkling clean corridors, high-end boutiques, art installations, and the aroma of Arabic coffee set the tone for what would be an unforgettable layover.
With 18 hours to spare before our connecting flight to Bangalore, we decided to make the most of our stopover. Instead of lounging around the airport, we chose to explore what Dubai had to offer at night—an experience that turned out to be a highlight of our entire vacation.
From the shimmering lights of the Burj Khalifa to the charm of the traditional souks, Dubai by night promised adventure, culture, and family-friendly fun.
Do You Need a Transit Visa to Leave the Airport?
If you hold an Indian passport and have a valid US visa, you’re eligible for a visa on arrival in the UAE, which allows you to exit the airport during your layover. Otherwise, you’ll need to apply for a tourist e-visa, which is typically processed within a few days.
To save time and avoid any last-minute delays, we chose to pre-book our transit visa online—a decision that saved us around 30 valuable minutes, especially important when trying to fit in multiple ticketed attractions during a short stopover.
The application process was simple and efficient. We completed the transit visa form through the official UAE tourism website, uploading the necessary documents including a passport-sized photograph, bank statements, salary slips, proof of address, and ID copies. The total cost came to $63 per person, which we paid securely online.
You may come across other websites quoting visa fees as low as AED 50 (approximately $17), but based on our research and experience, this fee does not apply to Indian passport holders. Ultimately, the convenience and peace of mind from applying in advance made the process well worth it—giving us a smooth and stress-free start to our Dubai layover adventure.
Visa details on Emirates website 👉 https://www.emirates.com/us/english/before-you-fly/visa-passport-information/uae-visa-information/
Visa application link 👉 https://visa.vfsglobal.com/ind/en/are/apply-visa
Getting Around Dubai: Transport Options
Dubai is known for its ultra-modern transport network—from the sleek Dubai Metro and plentiful taxis to luxury ride services and private transfers. For most travellers on a short layover, time is the biggest luxury, and navigating public transport during peak hours can eat into your precious sightseeing minutes.
Thankfully, we had already planned ahead and booked the Dubai Night Layover & Stopover Tour with Airport Transfers through VooTours. It turned out to be one of the best decisions of our trip. From the moment we stepped out of the arrivals hall, a friendly VooTours representative was waiting with a paging board, making us feel instantly welcomed and cared for.
Our private, air-conditioned vehicle was ready and waiting—spacious, clean, and comfortable, with a knowledgeable driver-guide who spoke fluent English. No need to figure out metro lines, no haggling with taxis, and no stress about timing. Everything was seamless.
This convenient pickup-and-drop-off service allowed us to maximize our layover, exploring Dubai’s iconic landmarks by night without worrying about logistics. For anyone planning to explore Dubai during a short stop, I can’t recommend this enough—especially if you’re traveling with kids, like we were.
Top Nighttime Activities in Dubai
As our VooTours driver navigated us out of the airport and into the heart of Dubai, the city unfolded before us like a scene straight out of a futuristic film. The streets were immaculate—wide, polished, and glowing under the golden hue of perfectly placed streetlights. Skyscrapers stood tall like guardians of the night, their glass facades shimmering in reflections of neon blues and purples.
The Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai’s main artery, felt alive cars smoothly weaving past us like streams of light, their headlights dancing in rhythm.
With soft Arabic music playing in the background and the cool hum of the AC comforting us after the flight, we sat back and watched the city’s magic come alive. Every few seconds, something new would catch our eye—a futuristic building with curves that defied logic, a luxury sports car roaring past, or a perfectly lit palm tree swaying against the skyline.
Even the roadside cafés, still bustling well past midnight, felt cinematic.
Soon, the glittering skyline began to shift as we turned off the main highway and made our way toward Old Dubai, where the Traditional Souks await. The atmosphere transformed—glassy towers gave way to narrow lanes, wind towers, and low-lit alleyways full of character and charm.
As we approached the Gold Souk, the aroma of spices and incense floated in through the window. The energy here was different—warm, historic, and deeply rooted in tradition. It felt like we had travelled back in time within the same city, and the contrast made it all the more magical.
Discovering Dubai’s Traditional Souks
Our adventure began at Naif Souk in lively Deira. The second we walked in, colors and energy surrounded us. Stalls overflowed with flowy abayas, shiny souvenirs, gadgets, and toys. Friendly shopkeepers waved us over, offering to spray perfumes on our wrists or let us touch soft fabrics. This wasn’t just for tourists—it felt like real Dubai, and we got to be part of it.
Just steps away, we entered the dazzling Gold Souk. It was like stepping into a golden wonderland. Shop windows glittered with delicate bangles, heavy necklaces, and wedding sets so fancy they looked made for kings and queens. One shopkeeper held up a necklace that sparkled like sunlight on water. “Pure 22-karat gold,” he said proudly. You don’t need to buy anything here—just being around so much beauty makes you feel special.
Next, our noses led us to the Spice Souk. The air was alive with colors and smells—bright red chili powder, golden turmeric, cinnamon sticks, dried rose petals, and piles of saffron. At one stall, a man crushed fresh za’atar herbs right in front of us. “Try this!” he said, sprinkling some into our palms. The earthy, lemony scent was unforgettable.
Then came the Perfume Souk, where the air turned rich and mysterious. Rows of glass bottles held scents of oud, musk, roses, and amber. A perfumer mixed a custom fragrance for us—just one drop on our wrists lasted all day, like carrying a memory in a bottle.
At the Textile Souk, fabrics danced from the ceilings—silky chiffons, embroidered cottons, and shiny linens in every color imaginable. We touched soft materials that felt like history in our hands. Nearby, a tailor worked on an elaborate navy-blue sherwani with gold thread—it looked like something a prince would wear.
From the busy markets, we escaped to the peaceful abra ride across Dubai Creek. The old wooden boat rocked gently as we glided over the water. On one side, modern skyscrapers twinkled. On the other, historic buildings whispered stories of pearl divers and traders from long ago. The breeze cooled our faces—pure magic.
On the other side of the creek, we discovered the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Quiet sandstone alleys glowed under lantern light. We sipped Arabic coffee in a courtyard café, listening to the call to prayer echo softly around us.
We ended our night at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a fancy remake of an old Arabian market. Wooden bridges crossed quiet canals, with the glowing Burj Al Arab hotel in the distance. As we drank mint tea by the water, we realized—we hadn’t just visited markets. We’d travelled through time.
Burj Khalifa’s ‘At the Top’ Observation Deck
As the golden hues of dusk began to melt into the shimmering twilight, we left the lantern-lit walkways of Souk Madinat Jumeirah, still savouring the aroma of oud and spices that lingered in the air. The city was beginning to sparkle, and our excitement only grew—because our next destination was none other than Dubai Mall and the awe-inspiring Burj Khalifa.
The drive along Sheikh Zayed Road at night is something out of a sci-fi dream. Towers illuminated like circuit boards, luxury cars gliding across smooth asphalt, and the whole city pulsing with life. My kids were pressed against the car windows, pointing at each building as if each one was a star in Dubai’s architectural galaxy.
As we approached Downtown Dubai, the iconic Burj Khalifa emerged from behind the skyline—like a silver needle stitching the earth to the heavens. Even though we had seen it in photos and videos, nothing prepared us for the feeling of standing beneath it. It was… humbling.
We entered Dubai Mall, a world within a world, where every corridor gleams and every turn reveals something new—designer boutiques, waterfalls, and even a massive aquarium. But we weren’t there to shop. We were headed “At the Top.”
After a swift security check, we were ushered into the high-speed elevator. The doors closed, and the lights dimmed. A countdown began, and with a soft whoosh, we were off—ascending at 10 meters per second. In less than a minute, we reached the 124th floor.
The doors opened to reveal floor-to-ceiling windows, and what we saw took our breath away.
Dubai shimmered below us like a circuit board of gold. The Palm Jumeirah, the winding creek, the dazzling stretch of Sheikh Zayed Road—all laid out like a painting under the night sky. The city felt endless, alive, and impossibly beautiful.
We stepped out onto the open-air terrace, the cool breeze brushing against our cheeks. My wife and I exchanged a smile—this was one of those rare, perfect moments. My kids were wide-eyed, trying to spot every landmark from above. It wasn’t just a view; it was a moment suspended in time.
As we gazed out over the city that never seems to sleep, I realized this wasn’t just a stop on a layover.
This was a once-in-a-lifetime chapter in our travel story.
Hidden Gems Inside Dubai Mall
As we descended from the clouds—quite literally—from the Burj Khalifa’s ‘At the Top’ observation deck, we stepped back into the sparkling world of Dubai Mall, buzzing with energy even late at night.
While most visitors flock straight to the flagship stores or food courts, we were eager to wander a little deeper and uncover the mall’s lesser-known treasures.
Winding past cascading indoor waterfalls, we stumbled upon the Human Waterfall—a soaring art installation with silver divers frozen in graceful motion. It’s mesmerizing, and the sound of trickling water offered a moment of calm in the lively ambiance. The kids were fascinated, and honestly, so were we.
Tucked behind a corner near the waterfall is one of Dubai Mall’s best-kept secrets—The Souk. Not to be confused with the old-world markets we had visited earlier, this was a stylized, air-conditioned blend of tradition and luxury. Lantern-lit corridors, walls adorned with Arabesque patterns, and boutique shops selling regional jewelry, antiques, and handcrafted textiles—it was like stepping into a modern-day Arabian Nights tale.
And then, of course, came the question every family has after a few hours of exploring: Where do we eat?
Where to Eat in Dubai Mall (Even During a Layover)
We weren’t in the mood for rushed fast food or crowded food courts, so we did a little exploring—and here’s what we found:
- Social House (Ground Floor, near the Dubai Fountain)
A perfect mix of global comfort food with views overlooking the Dubai Fountain. We ordered sushi for the kids and pasta for ourselves—quick, delicious, and with a front-row seat to the fountain shows.
- Al Hallab Restaurant
Craving something local, we considered Al Hallab, known for its authentic Lebanese cuisine. Their mezze platter, fresh grilled meats, and warm Arabic bread are legendary—and the terrace dining offers a stunning view of Burj Khalifa at night. - Somewhere Restaurant (Fashion Avenue)
With a Mediterranean-meets-Middle Eastern fusion menu, somewhere lives up to its name—quirky, surprising, and incredibly flavorful. Their kebabs and hummus variations were crowd-pleasers. - Angelina Paris
For something sweet before we left, we treated ourselves to pastries from Angelina Paris. Their signature hot chocolate and French éclairs were the perfect finish to a long night.
Witness the Spectacle: The Dubai Fountain Show
As we stepped out from the cozy warmth of our dinner spot, the cool desert breeze greeted us. Just beyond the restaurant’s glass panels, crowds had already started gathering along the waterfront. Phones out. Eyes forward. Smiles everywhere. It was time—The Dubai Fountain Show was about to begin.
We found a spot near the edge of the Burj Lake, the shimmering waters reflecting the towering Burj Khalifa above. The atmosphere was electric. Even our kids—who usually need a screen to stay still—stood in awe, wide-eyed and whispering with anticipation.
Then, the music began.
At first, just a soft note echoed across the plaza. Then suddenly—whoosh—columns of water soared high into the air, perfectly choreographed to the rhythm of an operatic score. Lights danced across the lake, and water jets twirled like ballerinas. The synchronized movements were hypnotic—elegant one moment, powerful the next.
We watched, mesmerized, as the fountain painted a story in midair. Arabic classics blended with world music in later shows, each performance offering something new. The best part? The Burj Khalifa lit up behind it in a stunning light show, completing the surreal experience.
For those few magical minutes, everything else faded away—the layover, the long flight ahead, the ticking clock. It was just us, the night, and one of the most spectacular fountains shows in the world.
As the final note played and the water jets bowed into silence, we glanced at each other, smiling. We hadn’t just seen a show—we had been part of something magical. And in that moment, we knew: this layover was already unforgettable.
A Whirlwind of Iconic Photo Stops
After soaking in the brilliance of the Dubai Fountain Show, our journey continued with a series of unforgettable photo stops—each one a postcard moment waiting to happen.
Our first stop was the Dubai Frame, towering like a golden picture frame in the heart of Zabeel Park. Framed by the glow of the city lights, it felt like we were standing at the edge of a time portal—one side facing old Dubai, the other, its futuristic twin.
As we drove by the Museum of the Future, its illuminated calligraphy and hollow ring structure mesmerized us. The kids called it “Dubai’s spaceship,” and honestly, it wasn’t far off. It looked like something out of a sci-fi dream, boldly standing as a symbol of what’s to come.
Next, we paused at Zabeel Palace, the residence of the ruling family, where the stately palms and regal gates whispered tales of Arabian elegance. Even from outside, its grandeur was humbling.
And then came the big ones.
The Burj Al Arab, shaped like a billowing sail and glowing against the night sky, was simply breathtaking. We captured the iconic silhouette from Jumeirah Beach—one of the most anticipated stops for all of us.
Our car then glided onto the Palm Jumeirah, the man-made island stretching into the Arabian Gulf. From the crescent, we enjoyed a distant but dazzling view of Atlantis The Palm, its arches glowing like a crown over the island.
Conclusion: Making the Most of Your Dubai Layover
As our 18-hour layover slowly drew to a close, we found ourselves back at Dubai International Airport, hearts full and memory cards overflowing. What was once just a transit stop had transformed into a whirlwind night of discovery, culture, and wonder.
From haggling over spices in ancient souks to marveling at the modern masterpieces like Burj Khalifa and Museum of the Future, every moment was a glimpse into a city that seamlessly blends the old with the new.
Dubai didn’t just welcome us—it dazzled us.
If you ever find yourself with a few spare hours between flights, don’t waste them inside the terminal. Venture out. Let the city surprise you. Whether you’re sipping karak at Al Fahidi, cruising past glittering towers in Dubai Marina, or soaking in the Dubai Fountain show under a starlit sky, you’ll return to the airport not just with stories, but with a feeling—of awe, of inspiration, and of a night well spent.
After all, in Dubai, even a layover becomes an unforgettable journey.