There’s no place quite like Dubai. It’s a city where the sun shines brighter, the hotels get more glamorous by the second, and your diary fills up with rooftop cocktails, beach clubs and world-famous dining spots faster than you can unpack your SPF. I recently spent a week living my best life in the UAE, and here’s exactly what I got up to – including all the spots I’d recommend in a heartbeat.
Thursday – Touch Down and Wind Down
We landed late into Dubai and headed straight to our hotel, W Dubai – The Palm. One of the best things about staying in Dubai is the warm welcome and speedy check-in – within minutes we were in our room, unpacked, and fast asleep. No sightseeing on night one, just some well-earned rest before the fun began.
Friday – Poolside Peace and Rooftop Perks
Friday was our first full day, and we eased in gently with a sun-drenched pool day at the hotel. The weather was perfect (as always), and the poolside service made it very tempting to never leave. That evening the hotel’s rooftop bar had a ladies’ night on – and if you’re planning a Dubai trip, listen closely: ladies’ nights are everywhere, and they’re brilliant. Think: complimentary drinks, discounted set menus, DJ sets and skyline views – often in some of the city’s most Instagrammable venues. If you’re into a lively atmosphere with a premium feel, this is the kind of night you build a holiday around.
Saturday – Beach Day & Moonlight Magic at Atlantis The Royal
Saturday was spent stretched out on a private beach, with the sea breeze and a cold drink in hand. We wanted something extra special for the evening, so we booked the Moonlight Session at Cloud 22, the ultra-luxe rooftop pool lounge at Atlantis The Royal. This is Dubai’s newest and flashiest address – it’s bold, beautiful and unlike anywhere else. Cloud 22 serves up dreamy infinity pool views of the city and ocean, perfect cocktails, live music and just the right amount of glamour. It’s a bit of a splurge, but so worth it (I’d recommend booking this in advance, 21+).
Sunday – Ocean Beach Club & Hotel Highlights
Sunday called for full-blown party mode, so we booked into Ocean Beach Club Dubai for their ladies’ day package. Ocean Beach is iconic – poolside cabanas, thumping music, entertainers, and a high-energy vibe that screams VIP. Ladies’ day packages here usually include pool access, food and drinks – ideal if you want to spend the day dancing in your bikini with a cocktail in hand.
Afterwards, we headed back to our hotel for dinner (we were on a half board package – and let me tell you, the food was outstanding every night). Then, because it would be rude not to, we popped back up to the rooftop bar to enjoy yet another ladies’ night deal. Dubai doesn’t let up when it comes to value – especially if you’re a woman with a love for a rooftop setting.
Monday – Pool Time and Plate Smashing at OPA
We went back to basics on Monday – pool, sun, tan, repeat. It was around 35°C and absolutely glorious. That night, we had a reservation at OPA Dubai, a lively Greek restaurant known for its fun-filled dinners with plate smashing, live performances and non-stop energy. Think Mykonos meets Dubai – delicious food, incredible atmosphere, and just the right amount of drama.
Tuesday – Sky-High Swimming and Marina Magic
Tuesday morning was all about the Aura Skypool. I’ve been three times now and still can’t get over it. It’s the world’s highest 360-degree infinity pool, suspended 210 metres in the air, offering unbelievable views over the Palm, Burj Al Arab, and Dubai skyline. We booked the 10 am–2 pm slot which included loungers, towel service and cocktails – it’s luxurious but not overly stuffy, and feels like a proper once-in-a-lifetime treat. That night, we went to Asia Asia at Dubai Marina. This place has won loads of awards and it’s easy to see why – stunning décor, waterfront views, and a menu full of Asian fusion favourites. We’d booked their Escandalous Ladies’ Night which included a two-course meal and three drinks. Very tasty, and excellent value.
Wednesday – Waterpark Fun and One Last Feast
On our final day, we wanted to go out with a splash, so we headed to Aquaventure Waterpark at Atlantis The Palm. It’s the biggest waterpark in the world and ideal whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just want to float along the lazy river. With over 100 slides, beaches and even an aquarium next door, it’s perfect for families and groups alike. We finished with one last hotel dinner and got an early night ahead of our flight home. No one wanted to leave – and honestly, I’d go back tomorrow if I could.
Dubai was everything we needed – relaxing, exciting, indulgent and full of amazing value thanks to all the ladies’ night and day offers. Whether you’re heading there for a short break or a full-on glam escape, you can truly tailor it to your vibe. From rooftop pools to sky-high dining, beach clubs to buzzing bars, it’s got something for every kind of traveller.
Thorne Travel
Registered Office: 153 Main Street, Kilwinning, KA13 6EQ
All holidays shown are subject to availability. Thorne Travel acts as retail agents for ATOL protected tour operators.
153 Main Street Kilwinning, Ayrshire | KA13 6EQ
10 Main Street Largs,
Ayrshire | KA30 8AB
66-68 Main Street Prestwick, Ayrshire | KA9 1PA
Telephone: 0300 373 0800
Email: enquiries@thornetravel.com
All content and pricing on our website is subject to availability and may change out with our control. Prices advertised are per person, based on 2 sharing unless otherwise specified. Prices are a guide and may not include relevant supplements and/or benefits. Images and descriptions are to be used as a guide as these can vary and your Holiday Expert will confirm at the time of booking. Please call and speak to our Holiday Experts for up to date, accurate pricing and advice
Site by MeltedHouse Digital
