If you’re a Canadian like myself who is in their “I need to escape in the winter” era, Dubai is the destination that feels worth the flight and ticks every box.
Touching down in Dubai felt like switching the season and my nervous system at the same time. I flew from Toronto to Dubai for a quick break and it turned out to be the easy, do-it-all choice. The days moved how I wanted them, quiet time when I needed it, energy-filled activities to recharge and moments to rediscover the city’s history and culture too.
I found Dubai to be a city that’s much more than what you see in the pictures. It’s a dynamic place that lets you mix comfort, energy, and culture all in the same itinerary.
If you’re in search of your next winter getaway, save this guide because we’ve covered it all from where to stay, what to do, and where to eat. There’s something for everyday no matter what your taste and interests are, along with Canadian connections in Dubai so keep reading. —Farah Khan
Where to Stay
Mama Shelter Dubai is a fun, design-forward 5-star stay located in Business Bay perfect for those travellers who like their hotels to have a bit of a personality. The design is vibrant, playful, yet cozy at the same time with lots of colours, and fun prints throughout the space. Part of the global Mama Shelter franchise, it follows the brand’s idea that “mama takes care of you” so you’ll spot little touches everywhere such as “Mama loves you” printed in the elevators and rooms.
The amenities match the grandeur of Dubai with four spools, an outdoor cinema, restaurants, and oh—a delicious breakfast buffet spread that makes mornings easy to love. Locals also love the hotel for the social events so if you want a stay that feels modern, urban yet luxe, add this to your list of places to stay.
What to Do
Ways to rediscover
Rediscovering is about leaning into the local and cultural side with experiences that teach you about the city’s history and growth. These are the experiences that make Dubai feel like Dubai.
Al Fahidi Historical District: Old Dubai brings the city’s roots into focus. You get a sense of where it all started. Start in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood where heritage buildings, courtyards and narrow lanes all tell a story. Pop into the free Coin Museum for a quick history and trade lesson, then find your way to the Abra Crossing station at Dubai Creek where you can ride a traditional Abra (wooden boat) across to Deira for about 1 dirham (0.38 cents CAD). On the Deira side, you’ll find Old Baladiya Street with tons of gold and spice souks to shop at.
Tip: This part of your trip will be outdoors so plan for the heat especially midday. Oh, and expect some friendly vendor calls and bargaining at the souks. The prices are cheaper compared to malls.
Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding: Located inside a restored wind-tower house within Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, the centre hosts cultural meals and tours with local Emirati presenters where you sit in a majlis (sitting room with cushions on the ground) and they share their traditions, customs, and way of life, you get to eat lunch and there is time for a Q&A. I went on the cultural lunch experience which ended up being one of my most favourite experiences, getting to try traditional Emirati food, learning new Arabic words, and speaking with locals to get a real understanding of their everyday life in Dubai.
Etihad Museum: If you want the story of how the United Arab Emirates became the United Arab Emirates, this is the place. Fun fact, the Etihad museum is also built on the original site where the country’s leaders signed the union in 1971. You’ll get to see short films, archival photos and personal items, along with interactive elements that tell the full story of the seven Emirates. I highly recommend experiencing the museum with a guided tour if you can as the tour guides are very knowledgeable.
Fun fact: Etihad Museum was designed by Canadian architecture firm, Moriyama & Teshima Architects.
Alserkal Avenue: A row of warehouses converted into Dubai’s creative district with art galleries, studios, indie cafes, community spaces, and Cinema Akil, UAE’s only independent cinema all tucked into a walkable area. It’s easy to do a cultural stroll, take part in events or take part in community-driven initiatives.
Must-try: Grab a meal at The Growhouse, a cafe and indoor farm where the meaning of farm-to-table comes to life. It’s a cozy restaurant with lots of natural light, great place to eat or connect with people.
Hatta Heritage Village: A region located in the Hajar Mountains, Hatta is about 90 minutes outside of the city. Hatta Heritage Village is a preserved area that showcases rural living along with the ruler’s former house. Here’s where you can experience a quieter version of Dubai and see how people lived before skyscrapers.
At The Top Burj Khalifa: Take one of the world’s fastest elevators to experience the signature Dubai viewpoint — At The Top, an observation deck inside the Burj Khalifa with stunning views of the city. A truly Instagrammable view and as you exit, you’ll learn about the history of the building and how it ties back to the growth of Dubai.
Planning tip: At The Top, Arte Museum, and Dubai Aquarium are all located within Dubai mall so it’s the perfect activity if you’re coming to shop.
Arte Museum: Arte Museum in Dubai is like stepping into a moving painting where the walls, floors, sound, lights work together to pull you in. You move through sensory, immersive rooms where waves crash around you, flowers bloom, and every room makes you want to stop and watch, almost being surprisingly calm to just stand there and watch it play.
Dubai Aquarium: In the heart of Dubai Mall sits a massive indoor aquarium that lets you stroll beneath sharks and rays. An experience with loads of photo-ops and a fun activity for families too. Crowds build on the weekend and evenings in Dubai so try to stop earlier in the day if you can.
Ways to recharge
Recharging is all about those high-energy moments from social, to adventure, to outdoors, that make the day fun and aspirational.
Platinum Heritage Safari Excursion: A must-do rite of passage is the desert safari in Dubai. You’ll hop in a vintage open top Land Rover and ride through the desert with a guide. As the sun dips, you’ll catch a live falcon show then head over to a lantern-lit authentic multi-course dinner under the stars and a fun camel ride if you’re up for it.
Tip: Pack sunglasses. Otherwise the breeze is going to send fine sand flying into your eyes.
Hatta Dam and Hatta Wadi Hub: While you’re in Dubai’s mountain town, Hatta, start the morning off at Hatta Dam with a kayak or donut boat rental and cruise the emerald water surrounded by mountains. It’s a scenic escape with beautiful photo opps. Next, for an adrenaline switch, head over to Hatta Wadi Hub for zip lining, tubing, wall climbing and more high-energy activities.
Tip: Wear closed-toe shoes and bring a hat for outdoor activities in Hatta.
La Perle: Think world-class acrobatics, aerial stunts, motorcycles and jaw-dropping dives at La Perle, Dubai’s cinematic aqua-show. It’s the perfect activity before or after dinner that truly has that “wow” factor and energy to get you pumped. I personally couldn’t take my eyes off the stage for the entire 90 minutes!
Crystal Clear Watersports: Glide in clear kayaks and get a front-row view of the Dubai skyline. It’s the perfect recharge activity with a bit of calm to kick off your morning and fun activity to add to your itinerary.
Tip: Book a morning slot for a calm and less busy experience.
Matcha Club: A chic, community-focused wellness space that’s wrapped with greenery and free from outside distractions. I took a Vinyasa Flow class that’s perfect for beginners to recharge before starting your day. Post-class, pop into NETTE— a French-Japanese restaurant—for a quick bite.
Ways to reset
On any trip, give yourself the permission to reset and slow down. Whether you need to relax at the spa, pool or beach, do things to make your body feel good and bask in the luxury and comfort of Dubai.
Four Seasons Resort at Jumeirah Beach: With lush, leafy pathways and private access to Jumeirah Beach makes it very easy to slow down at the Four Seasons. Inside, The Pearl Spa and Wellness offers an instant reset and pampering for everyone. There’s a beautiful indoor pool with natural lighting, their treatment menu includes jet-lag treatments, body massages, a signature pearl-extract facial and more. Pair a treatment with the indoor pool and you’ll walk out genuinely restored.
Sohum Wellness Sanctuary: From the moment you walk in, Sohum Wellness Sanctuary feels like a deep breath. They offer a range of wellness experiences from facials, ayurvedic massages to group yoga. What sold me was how personal it felt; the ayurvedic doctor on-site offers consultations before selecting treatments so you get a custom experience with expert advice. Post-treatment, step into the relaxation area or in-house cafe where you can grab a light bite before heading out.
Nikki Beach Club: Right in Pearl Jumeirah is the one and only Nikki Beach, where you can bounce between the private beach or pools, lounge in the beach beds, order bites and drinks, enjoy the sunset and settle into the sun-soaked vibe and enjoy the DJ’s set.
Aura Skypool: Suspended high above the city, this is the world’s highest 360 infinity pool that’s built for calm. With comfy daybeds, a relaxing atmosphere, and a concise breakfast and drinks menu, you’ll immediately feel a sense of quietness and catch yourself stress-free.
Tip: Book a morning slot so you can catch the sunrise.
Where to Eat
Jun’s: If you’re saving one night for a fancier dinner, make it Jun’s. Chef Kelvin Cheung, award-winning Chinese-Canadian chef, brings together his heritage, travels and upbringing in dishes that have unique twists, flavours that make you pause to ask questions, and nods to street food where each dish feels familiar except there is precision in every plate.
Must-try: 13-course tasting menu with crispy bites, rich sauces, delicious seafood and more and it’s a date mocktail with green apple juice, date tonka and ginger ale.
Arabian Tea House: Tucked inside Al Fahidi Historical District, this is the spot to try authentic Emirati dishes in a laid back and cozy setting. Think Arabic-inspired interior such as courtyard setting with trees, white stones, and big sharing plates with fresh breads, Balaleet (vermicelli) beef liver, hummus, and of course, Karak tea. Start your morning here to get a taste of what a local eats for breakfast.
Must-try: Liver Breakfast Tray made with fresh beef liver and served with salad, hummus and tanoor bread.
Three Bros: An intimate, 22-seater, high-energy spot from the brothers behind renowned Orfali Bros, this is a newer concept with retro touches, chatter, and comfort food that’s levelled up. The meals are fun and creative with blends from around the world, an ode to Dubai’s multicultural environment.
Must-try: Hokkaido-style milk ice cream made with madagascar vanilla, macerated strawberry and pink peppercorn.
Avatara: As Dubai’s first and only all-vegetarian Indian fine dining restaurant, it offers an intricate 17-course tasting menu using tastes of Ayurveda and locally-farmed ingredients that give off bursts of flavour. For a memorable dining experience, this is a must-visit.
Must-try: 17-course tasting menu where each dish arrives looking like a piece of art, carefully plated, colourful and you almost feel bad for touching it.
Al Hajarain Restaurant: If you’re heading to Hatta, this restaurant is a must-book. With old-stone surroundings, it’s a simple, relaxed space that offers generous plates of Middle Eastern and South-Asian inspired dishes from Biryanis to Arabic grills that are sure to fill you up.
Must-try: Shish Tawook made with chicken cubes and served with Bewas salad, fries, bread, garlic sauce and pickles.
Mama Restaurant: Pops of colour, cozy banquettes, a variety of dishes and cocktails to choose from, and you’ll love the taste and quick service. Plus a live DJ to set the vibe and make the space feel warmer.
Must-try: Mama Burger made with wagyu patty and served with atelier fries.
Time Out Market Dubai: Located in the heart of downtown right across from Dubai Mall, it’s a high-energy food market with some of the city’s buzziest and renowned restaurants under one roof. Perfect for a post-shopping treat, or nights when you want a casual food crawl with mixing and matching from different kitchens.
Must-try: Pad Thai from Cafe Isan—a Thai street food and tea bar.
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November 23rd, 2025 at 11:28 pm
Good article and useful information
December 11th, 2025 at 4:28 am
Where to stay in Dubai will depend on how long you are going to stay. And if you plan to say longer than a standard tourist visit, there may be nuances. Can you believe it, I was looking for an apartment at $3200 a month in JLT and really didn’t want to pay a $9600 deposit upfront — it felt impossible for my budget. I tried rent now pay later opportunity, submitted my ID and contract, and within a day got confirmation that they would cover the deposit and I could pay in installments. Have you ever felt like rent just crushes your finances from day one? Now I can spread payments over three months and not feel like my money is disappearing in the first week.
May 5th, 2026 at 9:53 am
Dubai really comes across in that piece as a place where people can reset their routine and enjoy a mix of comfort, culture, and energy during the winter months, especially with its warm weather and diverse experiences. When someone is planning a longer stay or relocating within the city to enjoy that lifestyle more fully, services like villa movers and packers in Dubai naturally fit into that transition, helping manage the practical side of moving without disrupting the experience. It ties into the idea that enjoying a city like Dubai often involves settling in properly rather than just passing through.
May 8th, 2026 at 2:22 am
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