December 26 2025 We arrived on December 26 after a smooth 5-hour flight from Istanbul to Sharjah. It was 6 AM local time (4 AM in Bucharest), but we didn’t feel the time difference anymore. After clearing passport control, we headed to public transport, only to find out that Google didn’t show any available routes. We decided to take a taxi and reached our accommodation, Golden Sands 3, by 8 AM. Since it was too early for check-in, we left our luggage at the reception and set out to find coffee and a restaurant for breakfast.
On our way, I tried to buy a SIM card for internet access, but discovered that purchasing one in Dubai comes with strict regulations. A SIM card can only be obtained at the airport or at an official telecom provider store, like e& (Etisalat), and requires a passport for registration. After returning to the hotel, we checked in and rested briefly before deciding to explore Dubai using public transport.
We walked to ADCB Metro Station, purchased five cards, and headed to Sobha Realty Metro Station to visit Dubai Marina. It was breathtaking—truly indescribable. On our way back, we decided to stop at Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Metro Station to preview what we planned to visit later. From the metro, there’s a suspended pedestrian walkway leading to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, which we navigated successfully. Time flew, and by 11 PM, we took a taxi back to Golden Sands 3 as the metro had stopped running.
December 27 Our first full day of exploration began with plans to visit Dubai Global Village. Using the Careem app, we booked a taxi, but upon arrival, we found out that outdoor attractions only open after 4 PM. We quickly changed plans and headed to Dubai Frame. We arrived early but learned that the ticket office takes a break at 1 PM. Using the online platform xperiences.visitdubai.com, we bought tickets and explored the stunning Dubai Frame.
Next, we visited the Museum of the Future, which was equally impressive. By 5 PM, Global Village was open, so we took a taxi there. The park’s scale was overwhelming, with pavilions representing countries from around the world offering local cuisine and souvenirs. My wife bought hand cream at the African pavilion, and we enjoyed delicious local food. We then explored the children’s play areas, which required a reloadable card for access. The vibrant atmosphere kept us engaged until 11:45 PM, when we finally decided to leave. A taxi brought us back to Golden Sands 3.
December 28 Today was dedicated to our pre-booked visit to Burj Khalifa “At the Top” and Dubai Aquarium. Although we ran a bit late, we decided to delay the aquarium visit until after Burj Khalifa. Despite having a 2:30 PM slot, we waited nearly three hours in line. The panoramic views of Dubai—day and night—made the wait worthwhile.
Afterward, we explored Dubai Aquarium. The tunnel, surrounded by swimming sharks, was fascinating, and the multi-level aquarium featured penguins, crocodiles, and interactive surprises for children. It was an enjoyable experience. Returning to Golden Sands 3, I picked up Indian food from Golden Food Fest Cafeteria nearby, ensuring the dishes were not spicy for the kids.
December 29 We initially planned to join a bus safari with HelloTours.ae, but since reservations were required a day in advance, we rebooked for the 30th. Instead, we headed to La Mer Beach. Without beach gear, we purchased towels and swimsuits for the kids, who enjoyed the warm water and sunny weather. After relaxing, we grabbed tacos at a beachside eatery and returned to the hotel via Careem. For dinner, I revisited the Indian restaurant and nearby Al Maya Mankhool supermarket, where I picked up ice cream, unknowingly choosing a coffee-flavored one.
December 30 We finally embarked on the Desert Safari by Bus, a unique experience not widely advertised. Unlike jeep safaris, the bus safari required us to meet at a designated point, just 15 minutes from our hotel, near Spinneys supermarket. Before departure, I noticed the MMI store nearby, which sold alcoholic beverages at prices similar to Bucharest.
The bus took us to Nazwa Rd, where SUVs awaited to transport us across sand dunes to Adventure Planet Tourism. We enjoyed camel rides, walked barefoot on fine sand, and soaked in the sunset. The evening concluded with a show and local cuisine, all included in the ticket price. By 9 PM, SUVs transported us back to the bus, which returned us to the meeting point. We ended the night with some shopping and reached the hotel by 11 PM.
December 31 For New Year’s Eve, we aimed to find a family-friendly spot to watch the fireworks. Leaving the hotel around 1 PM, finding a taxi took longer than expected. After negotiating with a street cab driver, we reached Burj Khalifa, only to find the first venue, Burj Plaza by Emaar, already full. We were redirected to South Ridge Park, where access was also eventually restricted. Volunteers ensured children’s safety, providing ID bracelets with parents’ contact information. The fireworks were stunning, and the organization was impeccable. Welcome, 2025!
January 1 We chose to relax at Abu Dhabi’s beach on our final day. A taxi took us there, and we enjoyed a leisurely day by the sea. That night, we departed for Bucharest, arriving home on January 3 without any issues, ending our adventure as smoothly as it began.
Reflections 2025 started with excitement and discovery. This journey reminded us to push boundaries and explore how far we can go. Here’s to another year of adventures!
