Dubai , United Arab Emirates

Dubai Self-Guided Audio Tour

Active

(3 reviews)

3h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Embark on an extraordinary journey through Dubai with our immersive self-guided audio tour. From ancient forts to futuristic skyscrapers, uncover the remarkable story of this desert metropolis. Delve into centuries of history, from its humble beginnings as a fishing village to its emergence as a global hub of commerce and innovation. Experience the unique blend of cultures that have shaped Dubai's identity, from traditional Bedouin heritage to its cosmopolitan present. Discover local myths and legends, from the tales of pearl divers to the ambitious visions that turned the impossible into reality. Marvel at the city's diverse architecture, from wind-tower houses to record-breaking superstructures. With insider knowledge and fascinating facts at every turn, this audio guide brings Dubai's past and present to life, offering a deep, multifaceted exploration of the "City of Gold".

Available options

Self-Guided Audio Tour

What's included

Private access links validity up to 6 days

Private access link to the audio guide in one playlist for 10 attractions

Private access link to a tour itinerary map of 10 attractions with audio guide individually

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Explore Dubai's oldest building and its main museum. Discover the city's remarkable transformation from a fishing village to a global metropolis through fascinating exhibits and artifacts.

Stop 2

Marvel at this architectural wonder that literally frames the city. Learn about the contrast between old and new Dubai, and enjoy panoramic views from its 150-meter-high sky bridge.

Stop 3

Visit one of the few mosques in Dubai open to non-Muslims. Understand Islamic architecture and customs, and learn about the "Open Doors, Open Minds" program promoting cultural understanding.

Stop 4

Visit one of the few mosques in Dubai open to non-Muslims. Understand Islamic architecture and customs, and learn about the "Open Doors, Open Minds" program promoting cultural understanding.

Experience Dubai's famous coastline. Learn about the area's development and the balance between preserving natural beauty and urban expansion.

Explore this vibrant beachfront destination. Discover how this area transformed from a residential neighborhood to a trendy leisure complex, blending local and global influences.

Stop 7

Witness the world's largest choreographed fountain system. Uncover the technology behind this spectacular water, music, and light show set against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa.

Stop 8

Admire the iconic sail-shaped hotel, a symbol of modern Dubai. Learn about its innovative design, construction challenges, and its status as one of the world's most luxurious hotels.

Stop 9

Wander through the world's largest natural flower garden. Discover how this colorful oasis was created in the desert and learn about its sustainable irrigation system.

Stop 10

Visit the largest Gurudwara in the entire Gulf region. Learn about Sikhism and how this temple serves Dubai's diverse expatriate community.

What's not included

Entry fees (wherever required)

Transportations (pick-up and drop-off)

Available languages

Audio guide

DE PT KO CMN JA EN IT FR ES

Reviews breakdown

Viator 3.0

1 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.0

2 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

1. Complete Flexibility - Tour at Your Own Pace: This is a self-guided audio tour, NOT a GPS-guided tour. You have complete freedom to choose which attractions to visit, explore in any order you prefer, start and finish wherever you like, and even split the tour across multiple days. Spend as much time as you want at each location and take breaks whenever needed.

2. How You'll Receive Your Tour Materials: On your selected travel date, before your start time, you'll receive two important links: one for your audio guides (SoundCloud) and one for your interactive map (Google My Maps). These links will be sent via your booking platform's messaging system, and also via iMessage/WhatsApp if you provided your phone number during booking. Important: While all links are fully functional, the booking platform may not display link previews due to platform restrictions. For the best experience with instant previews and one-click access, we strongly recommend providing your phone number during booking to receive links via WhatsApp or iMessage. This ensures smoother, faster access to your audio guides.

3. Using Your Audio Guides (Link 1 - SoundCloud): Open the SoundCloud link in your web browser (Safari, Chrome, etc.). You'll see a playlist of all attraction audio guides organized in a suggested order. You can listen before your tour to plan which attractions interest you most, or play them as you arrive at each location. Simply scroll through the playlist, tap any attraction to play its audio guide, and use play/pause controls as needed throughout your tour.

4. Using Your Interactive Map (Link 2 - Google My Maps): Open the Google My Maps link in your web browser - not the Google Maps app. You'll see all attractions marked with headphone icons. Navigate by either tapping directly on any headphone icon on the map, or tapping the tour title below the map to view a complete list of attractions. When you select an attraction, a popup window appears with a clickable link to that location's audio guide.

5. What to Bring & Prepare: Essential items: headphones/earphones, fully charged smartphone, and internet access. Before your visit, review both links to familiarize yourself with the attractions and audio content, then decide your priorities and create your own route or follow our suggested order.

6. Audio Guide Language Selection: Select your preferred audio guide language during booking to guarantee delivery in that language. Language selection cannot be changed after confirmation. If your preferred language isn't available during booking, you can mention it in the Special Requirements section when placing your order. However, this request must be made at least 48 hours before your selected travel date and time. We will make our best effort to prepare your requested language, but please note this is subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed. For the best assurance of receiving your preferred language, always select from the available language options during the booking process.

7. Important Notice - Attraction Fees & Your Responsibilities: While many attractions are free to visit, some may charge fees for special sections, additional services, or general admission. It is your responsibility to check opening hours, closing times, holiday schedules, advance booking requirements, and purchase any necessary admission tickets before visiting each attraction. If you need assistance accessing or using the audio guide, please contact our customer support team.

Meeting point

Since this tour is a self-guided audio tour, you can decide your starting point and ending point as per your convenience.

Important notes

Notice Regarding Audio Guide Access:

IMPORTANT: This is NOT a GPS-guided tour. You control where to go and what to listen to.

STEP 1 - RECEIVE ACCESS LINKS:

On your selected tour date, before your start time, you'll receive access links via booking platform messaging system / iMessage / WhatsApp (if provided) with 2 important links:

* Link 1: Audio Content (SoundCloud)
* Link 2: Interactive Map (Google My Maps)

STEP 2 - PREVIEW AND PLAN (Before or During Your Visit)

✓ Click Link 1 to access all audio guides on SoundCloud
✓ Listen to individual attraction guides or the entire tour
✓ Use this to familiarize yourself with the content at your convenience
✓ Click Link 2 to view the interactive Google My Maps
✓ See all attraction locations marked as points on the map

STEP 3 - PLAN YOUR ROUTE

✓ Use both links to decide which attractions you want to visit
✓ Choose your preferred starting point
✓ Decide if you want to follow our suggested order or create your own route ✓ Prioritize attractions based on your interests

STEP 4 - EXPLORE THE CITY

1. Use the Google My Maps link to navigate between attractions
2. At each location, click the corresponding map point
3. The relevant audio guide will play directly
4. Move at your own pace between stops

YOUR FLEXIBILITY:

✓ Start and finish anywhere you prefer
✓ Visit attractions in any order
✓ Take breaks whenever needed
✓ Spend more time at favorite locations
✓ Split the tour across 6 days

WHAT TO BRING:

* Headphones/Earphones
* Fully charged smartphone
* Internet access

CUSTOMER SUPPORT:

Contact us for assistance - we're here to ensure you have a smooth experience.

About Dubai

Dubai is a city of superlatives, known for its futuristic architecture, luxury shopping, and vibrant culture. It offers a unique blend of traditional Arabic heritage and modern innovation, making it a captivating destination for travelers.

Top Attractions

Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world, offering breathtaking views from its observation decks.

Architecture 1-2 hours AED 149-500 (USD 40-140)

Dubai Mall

One of the largest shopping malls in the world, featuring a vast array of retail stores, dining options, and entertainment venues.

Shopping Half day to full day Free entry, activities vary in cost

Palm Jumeirah

A man-made island shaped like a palm tree, featuring luxury resorts, residential areas, and the iconic Atlantis The Palm resort.

Architecture Half day to full day Varies by activity

Old Dubai (Al Fahidi)

The historic district of Dubai, showcasing traditional Emirati architecture, museums, and cultural experiences.

Historical 2-3 hours Free to explore, museum entry AED 3 (USD 0.80)

Dubai Creek

A historic waterway that divides Dubai into two main sections, offering traditional abra rides and access to souks.

Cultural 2-3 hours AED 1 (USD 0.30) for abra ride

Dubai Marina

A modern waterfront district featuring luxury yachts, high-rise buildings, and a vibrant dining and nightlife scene.

Waterfront Half day to full day Free to explore, activities vary in cost

Must-Try Local Dishes

Al Harees

A traditional Emirati dish made from wheat and meat, slow-cooked to a porridge-like consistency.

Main Course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians.

Machboos

A spiced rice dish cooked with meat, typically chicken or lamb, and flavored with saffron and cardamom.

Main Course Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians.

Luqaimat

Sweet dumplings made from a batter of flour, yeast, and cardamom, deep-fried and drizzled with date syrup.

Dessert Vegetarian, contains gluten.

Kahwa

A traditional Arabic coffee flavored with cardamom and served with dates.

Drink Contains caffeine, can be prepared with or without sugar.

Popular Activities

Dune bashing Skydiving Hot air ballooning Skiing at Ski Dubai Beach lounging Spa treatments Yacht cruises Shopping

Best Time to Visit

November to March

This is the best time to visit Dubai, with pleasant weather ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The city hosts numerous events and festivals during this period.

20-30°C 68-86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Arabic
Widely spoken: English
English: Widely spoken

Currency

United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED)

Time Zone

GMT+4

Electricity

220-240VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Dubai is generally very safe, with low crime rates and a strong police presence. However, travelers should still exercise caution and be aware of their surroundings.

Important Precautions:

• Use licensed taxis or ride-hailing apps
• Be cautious when using ATMs
• Avoid sharing personal information with strangers

Getting there

By air

Dubai International Airport • 5 km from city center
Al Maktoum International Airport • 50 km from city center

By bus

Al Ghubaiba Bus Station, Gold Souk Bus Station

Getting around

Public transport

Modern, efficient, and air-conditioned. Uses a contactless payment system (Nol Card).

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Careem

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown Dubai Jumeirah Deira Dubai Marina

Day trips

Abu Dhabi

140 km from Dubai • Full day

The capital of the UAE, offering a mix of modern architecture and traditional heritage sites.

Hatta

115 km from Dubai • Half day to full day

A picturesque mountain area with a dam, heritage village, and outdoor activities.

Musandam Peninsula

200 km from Dubai • Overnight

A stunning coastal area known as the 'Norway of Arabia' for its fjords and clear waters.

Festivals

Dubai Shopping Festival • January-February Dubai World Cup • March Dubai Food Festival • February-March

Pro tips

Visit popular attractions early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and heat.
Use the Nol Card for easy and discounted access to public transport.
Bargain when shopping in souks, but do so politely and respectfully.
Try traditional Emirati dishes at local restaurants for an authentic culinary experience.
Book tickets for popular attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa, in advance to avoid long queues.