The Ultimate Dubai Travel Guide

Sisters and co-founders of makeup brand CTZN Cosmetics, Aleena, Aleezeh and Naseeha Khan, were born in Los Angeles but raised in Dubai (where they still reside). You may already be familiar with the brand, which launched in 2019, thanks to its unique approach to approaching inclusivity and the intersection of beauty and culture.

We caught up with the Khan sisters, who recently moved to the Jumeirah 2 neighbourhood in Dubai, to get their picks for the must-have spots in the city. Continue reading to learn how to craft a perfect Dubai itinerary, including where to stay, where to shop, where to eat — and so much more.

Where to eat

3Fils

“We are Japanese cuisine fanatics through and through, so we had to pick an authentic sushi spot. 3Fils is great because it is homegrown, synonymous with incredible quality but also very unassuming from the outside (unlike a lot of other hotspots in Dubai) — so it’s not just about the food, but the entire experience feels refreshing every time we’re in the mood for a casual but delicious dinner.”

Where to unwind

Talise Ottoman Spa

“Definitely the Talise Ottoman Spa at the Jumeirah Zabeel Saray for a Turkish hammam. You lie on a heated stone bed and they exfoliate your body and then cleanse it with olive-oil soap. Your skin will feel baby soft. (You can thank us later.)”

Where to get a mani/pedi

Chado

“We love Chado. It’s a concept store downstairs but a private spa upstairs that offers nails, massages and more. They have created the most perfect, relaxing atmosphere — and most people don’t know about this spot, so we can get our beauty rituals done without bumping into anyone!”

Where to caffeinate

Lulu & The Beanstalk

“We were the first ever customers at this neighborhood spot so it will always hold a special place in our hearts. Not only is the coffee and matcha elite, but the aesthetics of this place feel like a Pinterest board come to life. Lulu & the Beanstalk was also founded by 2 sisters and inspired by their late grandmother’s recipes – we will always choose to support a family business when we can, especially when it is women-owned. We’ve hosted multiple CTZN panel events here too!”

Where to stay

Jumeirah Al Naseem

“Jumeirah Al Naseem is the most idyllic ‘Dubai vacation’ destination. It’s also family-friendly, for all ages, and hosts some of the most popular restaurants in Dubai like Il Borro and Flamingo Room.”

Where to shop for beauty

Sephora in Citywalk

“The Sephora in Citywalk is a true hidden gem, because it is somehow never packed, but still has a lot of the popular brands. I even found the viral Drunk Elephant bronzer drops there that were out of stock everywhere else! It saves you from the Dubai Mall crowds if you’re in a rush and are looking to just run in for a purchase rather than browse.”

Where to shop for fashion

The Edit in Al Serkal

“Al Serkal is our favorite area in Dubai to show visitors because it is flooded with homegrown concepts — from art galleries, to cafes and boutiques. The Edit has a really cool mix of local brands that you won’t find in mainstream boutiques, plus there’s a matcha bar inside.”

Where to get your hair done

Chalk

“Chalk is the best hair salon in the city. I’m a sucker for aesthetics — so not only are the hairstylists there very talented, but the minimalist interior of this salon truly gets me everytime.”

Beauty must-haves

CTZN Cosmetics Eye Elements in “Ember”

“Eye Elements in ‘Ember,’ because Dubai can get pretty hot and humid. Our eyeshadow sticks are fully sweatproof and humidity-proof—they do not budge.”

Code Red in “Ahmar”

“Ahmar means red in Arabic, so why not come to the region ready to fully lean in and represent!"