8-Day City Experience Itinerary in Dubai, UAE

  • Day 1: Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa
    20 minutes (11.5 km) from Dubai International Airport

    Start your trip at the Dubai Mall, the world's largest shopping mall, and home to over 1200 stores. Explore the mall's attractions, including the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. Afterward, take a trip to the top of the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, to enjoy panoramic views of the city.

  • Day 2: Dubai Museum, Dubai Creek, and Deira
    25 minutes (9.9 km) from Burj Khalifa

    Discover Dubai's rich history at the Dubai Museum, located in the Al Fahidi Fort, Dubai's oldest building. Then, take an Abra water taxi across the Dubai Creek to Deira, one of Dubai's oldest and most diverse districts. Wander through the vibrant souks and markets, including the Gold and Spice Souks.

  • Day 3: The Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis The Palm
    25 minutes (20.4 km) from Deira

    Take a break from the city and head to The Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree. Visit the luxurious Atlantis The Palm resort, home to Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium. Relax on the hotel's private beach, and enjoy lunch at one of its many restaurants.

  • Day 4: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village
    30 minutes (26.1 km) from The Palm Jumeirah

    Visit the Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest flower garden, home to over 45 million flowers. Afterward, head to the Global Village, a cultural and entertainment haven, featuring pavilions from over 75 countries, shopping streets, and themed attractions. Enjoy dinner at one of its many food stalls.

  • Day 5: Dubai Marina and the Beach
    30 minutes (23.4 km) from Global Village

    Explore the Dubai Marina, a picturesque waterfront development, and home to many of Dubai's best restaurants and cafes. Take a walk along the beach, which runs parallel to the marina, and soak up the sun. In the evening, enjoy dinner at one of the beachside restaurants.

  • Day 6: Dubai Opera House and Dubai Fountain
    20 minutes (14.4 km) from the Beach

    Visit the Dubai Opera House, a stunning venue offering a range of world-class performances. Afterward, watch the Dubai Fountain, the world's largest choreographed fountain system, located at the base of the Burj Khalifa. Enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants overlooking the fountain.

  • Day 7: Ski Dubai and Mall of the Emirates
    25 minutes (15.8 km) from Dubai Fountain

    Experience skiing in the desert at Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort located inside the Mall of the Emirates. Enjoy several skiing runs, snowboarding, tobogganing, or simply relax and enjoy the wintery atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy dinner and some shopping at the mall.

  • Day 8: Dubai Souks and Sheikh Zayed Road
    25 minutes (18.8 km) from Mall of the Emirates

    Explore the traditional Dubai Souks, known for their Arabian charms, trading and selling. Discover the textiles, spices, and gold markets located within. Afterward, head to Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai's main street, full of skycrapers, shopping malls, and restaurants. Enjoy lunch at one of its eclectic eateries.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Dubai Museum (2 hours, 20 AED)
  • Burj Khalifa (2 hours, 370 AED)
  • Palm Jumeirah (3 hours, free)
  • Global Village (4 hours, 15 AED)
  • Dubai Miracle Garden (2 hours, 55 AED)
  • Dubai Opera House (2 hours, varies by event)
  • Ski Dubai (3 hours, 250 AED)
  • Dubai Souks (2 hours, varies by purchase)
Total Estimated Costs: 710 AED per person

Transportation

To get around Dubai, you can use the Dubai Metro, bus, or taxi. The metro and buses are reliable and affordable, while taxis are more expensive but convenient. The Dubai Metro runs from 5:30 am to midnight on weekdays and from 10 am to 1 am on Fridays. The cost is 2-10 AED per trip, based on the distance. Taxis are metered and cost around 2 AED per kilometer.

To reach Dubai from the airport, you can use the metro, bus, or taxi. The metro runs direct from Terminal 1 and 3 to major tourist destinations in the city. The bus service provides a cheaper alternative, while taxis are plentiful but more expensive. The cost of a taxi from Dubai International Airport to Dubai city center is around 50-70 AED with a travel time of 20-30 minutes.

Useful Tips

If you have extra time, consider a day trip to Abu Dhabi to visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi or Ferrari World. Alternatively, you could take a desert safari tour to experience camel riding, sandboarding and more. If you have less time, consider skipping the Miracle Garden or Global Village. Also, make sure to dress modestly and respect the country's conservative culture.

Airports

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the primary airport in Dubai. It is located in the Al Garhoud district, 4.6 km east of the city center. It is the world's busiest airport by international passenger traffic and serves as a hub for Emirates and FlyDubai airlines.

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