You’ve found the sweet spot if you can manage to spend five days in Dubai. It’s just enough time to experience everything the city has to offer—think stylish dining, non-stop nightlife, and sun-drenched beaches—without feeling rushed. This carefully curated itinerary draws on my years of exploring the United Arab Emirates, so you’ll experience the best of Dubai, from the towering Burj Khalifa to the sandy shores of the Palm Jumeirah, without missing a beat.

When you only have 48 hours to get to know Dubai, deciding what makes it onto your must-see list might feel impossible. But I love a challenge, which is why I thought back on all the time I’ve spent here over the years and crafted a two-day itinerary that crams in all of the essentials. You’ll hit all the high points—starting with the observation deck at the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building—as well as shopping malls the size of small cities and islands that didn’t even exist a few years ago.

From snowy peaks to towering skyscrapers, here are some of the best mountain and city views in the world.