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Dubai and Abu Dhabi 6-Day Shoestring Itinerary in December 2023

  1. Day 1: Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa
    20 minutes (10.1 km) from Dubai International Airport

    In the morning, visit the Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world, famous for its Fashion Avenue and the Dubai Aquarium. Have lunch in the mall's food court and in the afternoon head to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and take in the stunning views from the observation deck. In the evening, watch the Dubai Fountain Show, a colorful water and light extravaganza that takes place every 30 minutes.

  2. Day 2: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village
    30 minutes (16.3 km) from Burj Khalifa

    In the morning, visit the Dubai Miracle Garden, the largest flower garden in the world, and take in its 45 million flowers in full bloom. Have lunch at one of the food trucks inside the garden. In the afternoon, head to the Global Village, a cultural and entertainment extravaganza that takes place every winter and showcases the food, clothing, and traditions of over 80 countries. In the evening, enjoy the live shows and fireworks.

  3. Day 3: Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque and Louvre Museum
    1 hour 30 minutes (150 km) from Global Village

    In the morning, visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world, and marvel at its intricate Islamic architecture and stunning white marble domes. Have lunch at one of the nearby local restaurants. In the afternoon, head to the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, a cultural landmark that combines art and history from around the world. In the evening, have dinner and stroll along the Corniche promenade.

  4. Day 4: Yas Island and Ferrari World
    25 minutes (15.7 km) from Louvre Abu Dhabi

    In the morning, visit Yas Island, a man-made island that hosts many entertainment venues, including Yas Waterworld, a water park with over 40 rides and slides. Have lunch at one of the many food outlets on the island. In the afternoon, head to Ferrari World, an indoor theme park that combines thrill rides, racing simulators, and Ferrari exhibitions. In the evening, enjoy the Yas Marina nightlife scene.

  5. Day 5: Dubai Creek and Gold Souk
    1 hour (45 km) from Yas Island

    In the morning, visit Dubai Creek, a saltwater inlet that divides the city into two parts. Take an abra, a traditional wooden boat, and cross over to the spice and gold souks. In the afternoon, explore the Gold Souk, one of the largest gold markets in the world, and haggle with the merchants for your desired price. In the evening, have dinner at one of the local Arabic restaurants.

  6. Day 6: Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach
    30 minutes (25.6 km) from Gold Souk

    In the morning, visit Dubai Marina, a man-made canal city that features many restaurants, cafes, and boutique shops. Take a yacht tour or rent a jet ski to explore the surroundings. Have lunch at one of the local restaurants. In the afternoon, relax at Jumeirah Beach, a public beach with crystal clear water and white sand. In the evening, enjoy the sunset views and have dinner at one of the seafood restaurants on the beach.

Recommendations

Don't miss the Dubai Frame, an iconic new landmark that offers 360-degree panoramic views of the city's skyline. For a side trip, head to the Hatta Mountains, an outdoor playground that offers hiking, biking, and kayaking opportunities. To maximize your fun, consider buying the Dubai City Pass, which offers discounts on many attractions. Other suggestions include visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden during the night when it is illuminated, experiencing a desert safari, and trying Arabian coffee and dates at a traditional coffeehouse.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Dubai Mall (4-5 hours, free)
  • Burj Khalifa (2-3 hours, AED 149-378)
  • Dubai Miracle Garden (2-3 hours, AED 55-120)
  • Global Village (5-6 hours, AED 15-25)
  • Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque (2-3 hours, free)
  • Louvre Abu Dhabi (3-4 hours, AED 60-120)
  • Yas Island (full day, AED 250-300)
  • Ferrari World (4-5 hours, AED 295-600)
  • Dubai Creek (2-3 hours, free)
  • Gold Souk (2-3 hours, free)
  • Dubai Marina (4-5 hours, free)
  • Jumeirah Beach (2-3 hours, free)
  • Total Estimated Costs: AED 1,024-1,743

To check hotel and flight prices, click here.

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