Visit to the Expo 2020 Dubai with a city trip
Finally, my city trip to Dubai with a visit to the Expo 2020 Dubai was finally on my agenda. And so I was sitting on a plane to Dubai last week and this for the 3rd time in just 9 months. Given that there are still travel restrictions and post covid quite an achievement.
For example, the UAE still ask for a negative pcr test before departure. And that always makes it quite exciting. Since you will only know last minute if you can travel or not. But all went well. And so I could start on my journey. To go to Dubai for an exciting visit to the Expo 2020 Dubai in combination with a city trip.
One not to be missed visit to the Expo 2020 Dubai
The Expo 2020 Dubai already started in October 2021. After it had been postponed for 1 year due to covid. But until now I didn’t have the opportunity to plan a visit. And then suddenly this opportunity came up. And you know, sometimes you feel you just have to make it happen. So this time I just followed my intuition.
Of course we checked out the website of Expo 2020 Dubai. But how on earth do you start a visit with more than 196 pavilions. Needless to say that the area is huge. I always feel that on such occasions you want to get the maximum out of it. So it is a wise decision to plan your visit ahead. Some pavilions you need to book in advance. So to avoid disappointment on the spot. Just prepare your visit.
And now my personal experience about the expo? It is very well organised. But then again I hadn’t expected anything less from the UAE and Dubai of course. To get you around you can use the free shuttle busses or rent a buggy (paid). Of course you can also choose to walk on foot, just provide good shoes in that case. You will definitely need it.
The Belgian pavilion at the Expo 2020 Dubai
Of course, a visit to the Belgian pavilion at the Expo 2020 Dubai could not be missed in our case. The pavilion is a real architectural gem that you can admire from the outside. But the pavilion also has a Belgian restaurant and a rooftop bar. They guarantee a beautiful view, but also a delicious culinary experience. You can book in advance for your visit, but if there is still room, you can also decide on the spot to dine there.
Some of the other pavilions we visited included the Switzerland pavilion where you can prepare for a unique experience. The USA pavilion also offers a completely different experience. Next to that we also visited the Dutch pavilion. Only thing I can say it isn’t what you would expect. Of course I’m not going to tell you everything in detail otherwise the fun will be before you go and visit yourself.
Interesting pavilions at the Expo 2020 Dubai
A surprisingly beautiful pavilion that we also visited was the Women’s Pavilion. Personally, I found it a very inspiring pavilion, where the women, of course, are central. But where there is awareness created of the challenges women face worldwide.
And of course a visit to the Indian pavilion should not be missed. This is quite a large pavilion. So make sure to set aside enough time if you want to visit all the floors.
No doubt my visit to the Expo 2020 Dubai was at least to say very interesting. You can either opt for pavilions that you select based on the country or based on the theme such as mobility, sustainability and opportunity. Enough choice. And with some planning you will definitely enjoy this incredible experience.
Iconic places in Dubai
Of course you can choose to visit the Expo 2020 Dubai for 1 day or several days. But why not combine your visit to the Expo 2020 Dubai with some sightseeing in Dubai. When it comes to iconic places, you will find numerous in Dubai.
And for those in love of taking pictures, like I am, you won’t miss out on any opportunity. So I am happy to share my inspiration and who knows you will soon be on your own journey in Dubai.
Bluewater Island
We set of on our day tour at Bluewater Island. I really like this neighbourhood. For example, on Bluewater Island you have the Al Ain Ferris wheel that recently opened. But of course you have a beautiful view at Jumeirah Beach Residences. A nice area where several hotels even have a private beach. But the neighborhood itself is also lively. If you like to stroll past the shops in the evening, you have come to the right place. Of course you can easily reach Bluewater Island via the pedestrian bridge connection Jumeirah Beach Residences or just take a taxi.
The Pointe
Our continued journey to the Pointe. Another iconic place on the Palm Island. This is a pleasant neighborhood with numerous restaurants and of course a beautiful view of the Atlantis The Palm hotel. This neighborhood is also very pleasant at night. In the future, The Pointe will also be accessible via the monorail that departs from the beginning of The Palm Island and goes all the way to the Atlantis The Palm hotel and the Aquaventure water park. With a few stops on it’s way like the shopping mall. No doubt you will be able to fill a few days only at the Palm.
Zuma, Japanese restaurant with style
When it comes to culinary experiences you won’t be disappointed when going to Dubai. Sometimes it’s just a matter of planning a little bit in advance. So that is why it is already the 2nd time we went for a lunch in Zuma.
We are definitely fans of this wonderful concept. Of course you have to make a reservation in advance. But those who love Japanese culinary food in a stylish environment will definitely enjoy this experience. No better place to pamper your taste buds.
During the week they also offer a business lunch where you can taste various dishes at a very reasonable price. In addition, the restaurant is also particularly child friendly. Even though they do not offer a children’s menu, they are happy to prepare a dish à la carte for your children. Fantastic isn’t it?
Al Seef, Dubai
And after this nice lunch, we went on to Al Seef. This neighborhood looks very old but is above all very cosy. Located by the water you can enjoy a nice walk. You will find quite a few nice restaurants, but also shops with souvenirs. And this fully integrated in the local style of this district.
You will also find the Dubai museum here, definitely worth a visit, just like the narrow streets around it. From here you can easily take the abra to the gold and spice souk.
Dubai Creek Harbour
If you are a fan of social media, you have probably already seen a photo of this iconic place. We happened to be there around sunset. And of course you have beautiful views of the Dubai skyline from this location.
This was also noticeable in the numerous photographers who were looking for the ideal place to take a top photo of this beautiful location with a great view.
Bombay Brasserie
Of course it doesn’t need to be said. If there is one cuisine that is very present in Dubai, it is of course the Indian cuisine. You will of course find various types of restaurants and styles. From modern to traditional Indian cuisine.
We have already tried several Indian restaurants in Dubai, but this one is definitely one of my top favourites. And so we ended our tour through Dubai with a delicious Indian dinner in the Bombay Brasserie restaurant of the Taj Dubai downtown hotel.
To end our amazing day we went for some shisha and some drinks at the rooftop bar Tree House in the hotel with a beautiful view on the Burj Khalifa. Needless to say we had a great experience and a wonderful day.
For more inspiration, take a look at our website or contact us if you have travel plans to go to Expo 2020 Dubai and discover so much more.
Subhadra
Luxury Travel Designer @ Jasmine Travel & Events
Luxury Travel Writer @ Jasmine Travel Stories