Relaxation in Abu Dhabi and Dubai - 7-day Itinerary

1. Day 1: Abu Dhabi Corniche
   10 minutes (5 miles) from Abu Dhabi International Airport

   Start your trip by unwinding at the beautiful Abu Dhabi Corniche. Enjoy a peaceful morning walk along the scenic waterfront. In the afternoon, relax on the sandy beaches and take a dip in the turquoise waters. In the evening, indulge in a delicious seafood dinner by the seaside.

   • Abu Dhabi Corniche Walk: Free, 2 hours
   • Beach Relaxation: Free, 3 hours
   • Seafood Dinner: $30-50, 2 hours
2. Day 2: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
   20 minutes (10 miles) from Abu Dhabi Corniche

   In the morning, visit the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece. Admire the intricate designs, beautiful chandeliers, and peaceful atmosphere. Afternoon can be spent exploring the date market and enjoying traditional Emirati cuisine. End the day with a relaxing sunset dhow cruise along the Abu Dhabi coastline.

   • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free, 2 hours
   • Date Market: $10-20, 1 hour
   • Emirati Cuisine Lunch: $20-30, 1 hour
   • Sunset Dhow Cruise: $50-70, 2 hours
3. Day 3: Dubai Miracle Garden
   1 hour 30 minutes (85 miles) from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

   Start your day by visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral paradise. Stroll through the vibrant gardens and marvel at the colorful displays. In the afternoon, head to the Mall of the Emirates for some retail therapy and skiing at Ski Dubai. End the day with a relaxing spa treatment at a luxury hotel.

   • Dubai Miracle Garden: $15-25, 2 hours
   • Mall of the Emirates: Free (shopping costs vary), 3 hours
   • Ski Dubai: $60-80, 2 hours
   • Spa Treatment: $100-150, 1 hour
4. Day 4: Dubai Marina
   30 minutes (20 miles) from Dubai Miracle Garden

   Spend the morning exploring the vibrant Dubai Marina. Take a relaxing walk along the waterfront promenade and enjoy the stunning skyline views. In the afternoon, embark on a yacht cruise to see iconic landmarks such as the Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab. End the day with a romantic dinner at one of the marina's waterfront restaurants.

   • Dubai Marina Walk: Free, 2 hours
   • Yacht Cruise: $150-200, 3 hours
   • Waterfront Dinner: $40-60, 2 hours
5. Day 5: Dubai Desert Safari
   1 hour (45 miles) from Dubai Marina

   Experience the tranquility of the desert with a thrilling desert safari. Enjoy dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding in the morning. In the afternoon, visit a traditional Bedouin camp for cultural activities and a delicious Arabian BBQ dinner under the starry sky.

   • Desert Safari: $80-100, 4 hours
   • Bedouin Camp Experience: $50-70, 3 hours
6. Day 6: Jumeirah Beach
   1 hour (30 miles) from Dubai Desert Safari

   Relax and rejuvenate on the pristine shores of Jumeirah Beach. Spend the morning soaking up the sun and swimming in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, visit the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, for panoramic views of Dubai. End the day with a luxurious dinner at a beachfront restaurant.

   • Jumeirah Beach Relaxation: Free, 3 hours
   • Burj Khalifa Observation Deck: $35-50, 2 hours
   • Beachfront Dinner: $50-80, 2 hours
7. Day 7: Dubai Souks
   30 minutes (15 miles) from Jumeirah Beach

   Explore the traditional markets of Dubai in the morning. Wander through the vibrant Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Textile Souk. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Museum to learn about the city's rich history. End your relaxing trip with a farewell dinner at a local Emirati restaurant.

   • Dubai Souk Exploration: Free (shopping costs vary), 3 hours
   • Dubai Museum: $5-10, 1 hour
   • Emirati Restaurant Dinner: $30-50, 2 hours

Recommendations

Are there any other local attractions, events, or experiences I should also consider? How about day trips? Any good ideas on how to get the most for my money and have a lot of fun?

Here are a few additional recommendations for your trip:

• Visit Yas Island in Abu Dhabi for thrilling theme parks like Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld.
• Take a day trip to the historic city of Al Ain to explore its ancient forts and the picturesque Al Ain Oasis.
• Try a relaxing spa experience at a traditional hammam in Dubai to unwind and rejuvenate.
• Explore the vibrant nightlife scene in Dubai, with rooftop bars, clubs, and live music venues.
• Consider a hot air balloon ride over the desert for a unique and breathtaking experience.

Make sure to check the updated opening and closing times for each place before your trip in December 2023.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.