Dubai Stopovers: Skyscrapers and the Epic Chicken Fail

Flying with Emirates, Dubai bookended our Europe trip with two very different stopovers, giving us a real sense of what it’s like to experience the city beyond the glossy brochures. From the moment we stepped out into the early‑morning heat and saw the skyline rising out of the desert, Dubai delivered a mix of futuristic architecture, luxury malls, spotless streets, and a few unexpected travel moments — including the “epic chicken fail.”
Across both visits, we explored the city’s highlights such as Dubai Mall, Festival City, navigated the realities of older hotels that look better online, along with a luxury, sampled the food scene (and its prices), and soaked up the contrast between ultra‑modern spaces and traditional Middle Eastern warmth. These Dubai blogs bring together our genuine first impressions, practical tips, and reflections from both stopovers and a helpful guide for anyone planning a short stay in Dubai or connecting through the UAE. There is so much to do in Dubai if you had the time, maybe next time.