Curious about the artificial intelligence bot’s travel intelligence? We asked ChatGBT some Dubai travel queries
While it’s been around for years, AI (artificial intelligence ) has been a huge, and controversial talking point. With the launch of ChatGPT – a free, easy-to-use service, many more are experimenting with the technology and finding it useful to plan holiday itineraries and even suggest hotels to stay at. We put the technology to the test by asking about the perfect ChatGPT Dubai itinerary, such as where to stay, what to do and where to eat. Here’s what it said.
ChatGPT: Dubai is renowned for its luxury, and its hotels are no exception. Whether you’re looking for opulence, incredible service, or innovative architecture, the best hotels in Dubai offer all of that and more. Here are some of the standout properties in the city:
Known for: Iconic sail-shaped structure, ultra-luxury
Why it stands out: Often referred to as the world’s most luxurious hotel, the Burj Al Arab offers a level of extravagance like no other. The hotel’s suites are vast, with their own butlers, and you can enjoy a range of fine dining experiences, including at the underwater Al Mahara restaurant. The Burj Al Arab also boasts a fleet of Rolls-Royces and even a helicopter pad.
Highlights: Private beach, unparalleled service, exclusive experiences.
Known for: Sleek design, elegance, style
Why it stands out: Located in the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, Armani Hotel is all about understated luxury. Designed by fashion icon Giorgio Armani, the hotel exudes sophistication with a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Guests can enjoy Michelin-starred dining, an exclusive spa, and access to the Dubai Mall’s high-end retail offerings.
Highlights: Elegant interior design, prime location, direct access to the Dubai Mall.
Known for: Modern Arabian luxury, beach access
Why it stands out: Part of the expansive Madinat Jumeirah Resort, Al Naseem offers a blend of contemporary luxury and traditional Arabian style. The hotel is surrounded by lush gardens, lagoons, and waterways and has direct access to a private beach. With a variety of dining options, including Japanese and Mediterranean cuisine, and a world-class spa, it’s a fantastic choice for those looking for a blend of relaxation and sophistication.
Highlights: Beachfront location, large resort with waterway access, close to the famous Burj Al Arab.
Known for: Tranquility, seclusion, luxury
Why it stands out: Located on the Palm Jumeirah, this exclusive resort offers privacy and peace, with only 95 rooms and suites. The One&Only The Palm features Moorish-inspired architecture, lush gardens, and a beautiful private beach. Its exceptional dining options, including a restaurant by celebrity chef Yannick Alléno, and the beautiful Guerlain Spa make it a favorite for those seeking a more intimate, luxurious experience.
Highlights: Secluded and serene, world-class service, exclusive beach access.
Known for: Luxury, Italian elegance, unique location
Why it stands out: Set on Jumeirah Bay Island, which is connected to the mainland by a bridge, Bulgari Resort offers a blend of Mediterranean charm and understated luxury. The property features lush gardens, spacious villas, and a private marina. The resort’s design is inspired by the style of a Mediterranean village, and it also features some of the best Italian dining and a world-class spa.
Highlights: Private marina, high-end Italian dining, secluded location.
Known for: Elegant luxury, refined service
Why it stands out: Located in JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residences), The Ritz-Carlton is an elegant resort with a blend of classic European style and contemporary touches. Its beachfront location, lush gardens, and serene atmosphere make it ideal for relaxation. The resort offers a collection of fine dining options, including one of the best sushi spots in the city, as well as a world-class spa.
Highlights: Beachfront resort, impeccable service, refined dining options.
Known for: Luxury, city views, proximity to Dubai Mall
Why it stands out: The Address Boulevard is part of the prestigious Address Hotels chain and stands at the heart of Downtown Dubai. With views of the Burj Khalifa and easy access to the Dubai Mall, it’s perfect for those who want to be in the midst of the city’s action. The hotel features a range of luxurious rooms and suites, multiple dining outlets, and a stunning outdoor pool overlooking the city’s skyline.
Highlights: Prime location, stunning views of Burj Khalifa, luxury amenities.
Known for: Fashion-forward, opulent decor
Why it stands out: This hotel is a celebration of luxury fashion and design, with interiors designed by the iconic Versace brand. Located in the Culture Village district, it offers a glamorous atmosphere with its bold patterns, rich colors, and sumptuous textures. The hotel features large suites, private villas, and stunning dining options, including a signature Italian restaurant.
Highlights: Fashion-inspired luxury, elegant suites, exceptional Italian dining.
Known for: Roman-inspired grandeur, family-friendly, and entertainment
Why it stands out: Located on the artificial Bluewaters Island, this hotel offers a unique Roman-themed experience combined with modern luxury. With a private beach, stunning views of the Arabian Gulf, and family-friendly activities, it’s a great option for those traveling with kids. The property also has a vast array of restaurants and bars, as well as a full-service spa.
Highlights: Roman-inspired luxury, private beach, variety of entertainment options.
Known for: Sophistication, service, beach resort
Why it stands out: A new addition to Dubai’s luxury hotel scene, the Mandarin Oriental combines a modern approach to luxury with the brand’s legendary service. Located on Jumeirah Beach Road, it offers stunning views of the Burj Khalifa and the Arabian Gulf. The hotel’s interiors are sleek and contemporary, while the extensive dining options are world-class. There is also a luxurious spa and pool area.
Highlights: Beachfront location, modern design, luxurious wellness offerings.
ChatGPT: Dubai is a city of modern marvels, luxury, and cultural richness, where every moment can be packed with extraordinary experiences. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, there’s always something new and exciting to explore. Here’s a 5-day itinerary to help you make the most of your trip to this dynamic metropolis.
Day 1: Iconic Landmarks & Luxury Shopping
Day 2: Cultural Exploration & Desert Adventure
Day 3: Modern Dubai & Palm Jumeirah
6:30 AM – Sunrise at the Burj Khalifa Start your day with a spectacular view from the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Arrive early to catch the sunrise from the At the Top observation deck on the 148th floor. The panoramic views of Dubai, the Persian Gulf, and the surrounding desert are breathtaking.
8:00 AM – Breakfast at The Lounge, Burj Khalifa After your trip to the top, head to The Lounge in the Burj Khalifa for a luxurious breakfast. The Lounge is located on the 152nd, 153rd, and 154th floors, and it offers an unparalleled view of the city, with a variety of breakfast options, from freshly baked pastries to full a la carte options.
9:30 AM – Dubai Mall and Dubai Aquarium Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the world and a great spot to explore. While there, check out the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, where you can marvel at the incredible marine life, including sharks and stingrays. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even try the Shark Dive experience.
Alternatively, if you’re into art and culture, you can visit the Dubai Opera or wander through the Dubai Mall’s Art Galleries.
Catch the Dubai Fountain show right outside the Dubai Mall. The fountain performs a series of captivating water shows set to music, and it’s best experienced in the morning when it’s not too crowded. It’s free, and the choreography of the water, lights, and music is spectacular.
12:00 PM – Lunch at Al Fanar Restaurant & Café For an authentic Emirati experience, head to Al Fanar Restaurant & Café in the Dubai Festival City Mall. This restaurant offers traditional Emirati cuisine in a charming, rustic setting. You can try dishes like machboos (spiced rice with meat), saloona (a spicy stew), and luqaimat (fried dough balls with date syrup).
1:30 PM – Dubai Creek & Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood After lunch, head to Dubai Creek to experience the old Dubai. Take a traditional abra (water taxi) across the creek, which gives you a glimpse of the historic side of the city. Visit the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, one of the oldest parts of Dubai, which is home to charming wind-tower houses, museums, and art galleries.
Stop by the Dubai Museum at the Al Fahidi Fort, which showcases the history of Dubai and its transformation from a fishing village to a global metropolis.
3:00 PM – Gold and Spice Souks Next, take a short walk to the nearby Gold Souk and Spice Souk in Deira. Wander through the narrow alleyways lined with dazzling gold jewelry, exotic spices, and perfumes. This area offers a more traditional and colorful side of Dubai, with the scents and colors of the spices filling the air.
5:00 PM – Desert Safari (Includes Dinner and Entertainment) A quintessential Dubai experience is a desert safari. Book an evening tour that takes you into the dunes for some thrilling dune bashing, followed by a relaxed camel ride and a visit to a Bedouin-style camp. In the evening, you’ll be treated to a traditional BBQ dinner while watching live entertainment like belly dancing, tanoura dance, and fire shows.
8:00 PM – Visit the Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis the Palm After the desert adventure, head to the iconic Palm Jumeirah. Stop by Atlantis The Palm, an extravagant resort. The area is particularly stunning at night with its impressive architecture lit up. If you’re in the mood, you can also book a table at one of Atlantis’s renowned restaurants, like Nobu or Ossiano, an underwater dining experience with views of the resort’s massive aquarium.
10:00 PM – Drinks at Atmosphere Lounge Finish your 24-hour adventure with cocktails at Atmosphere, the highest lounge in the world, located on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa. The views of the city at night, with its dazzling skyline and sparkling lights, are the perfect way to end your day.
11:30 PM – Explore Dubai Marina or JBR Beach If you’re not too tired, take a stroll along the Dubai Marina Walk or JBR Beach. Both areas are vibrant in the evenings with plenty of cafes, restaurants, and a lively atmosphere. Dubai Marina’s waterside promenade is great for a late-night walk or just to people-watch.
Despite launching in late 2022, and coming to prominence in 2023, ChatGPT consistently reminded us that its Dubai knowledge hasn’t been updated since September 2021 – making it quite outdated. Because of this, new hotels, restaurants and attractions weren’t mentioned, and there’s the risk other suggested itineraries include venues that have closed (which we found). Chat GPT also doesn’t have knowledge of Dubai traffic and roads, so many itineraries are unrealistic, timing wise.
Overall, we were quite impressed, and, as Middle East luxury travel experts, agree with many of its recommendations, such as breakfast and cafe choices, and thought its 24-hour and four-day itineraries traversed the city well, and included many must-see spots. Dubai hotel choices, its itineraries and some of its restaurant ideas. That being said, while ChatGPT is great for ideas, do your own research, read reviews, see what works for you and check on openings and closures before following its advice.
HOME
ALL ARTICLES
CURRENT ISSUE
ABOUT
CONTACT
Join our weekly newsletter for relevant, where to go now, our travel stories, unmissable offers, tips and what to do, buy and see that week