Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 69 travelers

7-Day Itinerary: Exploring Dubai

Saturday, September 2: Arrival and Dubai Marina

Morning: Start your Dubai adventure by visiting the iconic Dubai Marina. Take a leisurely walk along the marina promenade, admiring the impressive skyscrapers and luxurious yachts.

Afternoon: Explore The Walk at JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence), a vibrant area filled with trendy shops, restaurants, and cafes. Indulge in some retail therapy or enjoy a delicious lunch overlooking the Arabian Gulf.

Evening: End your day with a visit to the Dubai Marina Mall. Shop for international brands or catch a movie at the state-of-the-art cinema. Take in the stunning views of the marina from one of the waterfront restaurants.

  • Dubai Marina: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • The Walk at JBR: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Marina Mall: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Sunday, September 3: Old Dubai and Souks

Morning: Immerse yourself in the rich history of Dubai by visiting the Al Fahidi Historic District. Explore the narrow alleys, traditional wind-tower houses, and visit the Dubai Museum housed in the 18th-century Al Fahidi Fort.

Afternoon: Step into the bustling labyrinth of the Gold Souk and Spice Souk. Marvel at the dazzling displays of gold jewelry and immerse yourself in the exotic aromas of spices. Bargain for unique souvenirs and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere.

Evening: Head to the Dubai Creek area and take an abra (traditional wooden boat) ride across the creek. Enjoy the sunset views and witness the blend of old and new Dubai. Visit the nearby Souk Al Bahar for dinner with a view of the spectacular Dubai Fountain.

  • Al Fahidi Historic District: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Gold Souk and Spice Souk: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Creek and Abra ride: Cost estimate - AED 1 per person, Time spent - 1 hour
  • Souk Al Bahar: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Monday, September 4: Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall

Morning: Begin your day by visiting the world-famous Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Take the elevator to the observation deck on the 148th floor for breathtaking views of Dubai's skyline.

Afternoon: Indulge in a shopping spree at the luxurious Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world. Explore the countless shops, enjoy a variety of dining options, and visit attractions like the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.

Evening: Witness the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show, a synchronized water, music, and light spectacle right outside the Dubai Mall. Enjoy a leisurely dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants in the mall, overlooking the fountain.

  • Burj Khalifa: Cost estimate - AED 149-378, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Mall: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 4-6 hours
  • Dubai Fountain: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 30 minutes
Tuesday, September 5: Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis

Morning: Explore the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree. Take a monorail ride to the Atlantis, The Palm resort, and explore its stunning aquarium, containing thousands of marine creatures.

Afternoon: Relax on the beautiful private beach of Atlantis, The Palm. Enjoy water activities like swimming and snorkeling or indulge in a delicious lunch at one of the resort's restaurants.

Evening: Visit The Pointe, a vibrant waterfront destination on Palm Jumeirah. Enjoy shopping, dining, and breathtaking views of the Atlantis and the Dubai skyline. End the day with a stroll along the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk.

  • Palm Jumeirah: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Atlantis, The Palm: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • The Pointe: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, September 6: Desert Safari and Arabian Nights

Morning: Embark on an unforgettable desert safari adventure. Experience exhilarating activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding in the golden dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve.

Afternoon: Immerse yourself in Bedouin culture at a desert camp. Enjoy a traditional Arabic buffet lunch, get henna tattoos, and watch a mesmerizing falconry display. Relax in traditional Bedouin-style seating and savor Arabic coffee and dates.

Evening: As the sun sets, enjoy a magical Arabian Nights experience with live entertainment including belly dancing and Tanoura performances. Feast on a delicious barbecue dinner under the starry desert sky.

  • Desert Safari: Cost estimate - AED 200-400, Time spent - 6-8 hours
  • Desert Camp: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 4-6 hours
Thursday, September 7: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Morning: Spend the day at Dubai Parks and Resorts, a theme park complex offering a variety of entertainment options. Visit Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, or Legoland Dubai, depending on your preferences.

Afternoon: Enjoy thrilling rides, watch live shows, and explore the themed zones of your chosen park. Indulge in delicious meals at the park's restaurants or grab a quick bite at one of the food outlets.

Evening: End your day with a visit to Riverland Dubai, a vibrant outdoor dining and entertainment destination at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Choose from a range of restaurants and enjoy live music and street performances.

  • Dubai Parks and Resorts: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - Full day
  • Riverland Dubai: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Friday, September 8: Jumeirah Beach and Shopping

Morning: Relax and unwind at Jumeirah Beach, a pristine stretch of sand along the Arabian Gulf. Soak up the sun, take a refreshing swim, or enjoy water sports like jet skiing or paddleboarding.

Afternoon: Head to the Mall of the Emirates, home to a variety of high-end shops, boutiques, and designer stores. Explore the mall's entertainment options, including Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort.

Evening: Visit the vibrant and eclectic district of Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Explore the traditional Arabian souk, enjoy a scenic waterfront dinner, and admire the views of the iconic Burj Al Arab.

  • Jumeirah Beach: Cost estimate - Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Mall of the Emirates: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 4-6 hours
  • Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Cost estimate - Varies, Time spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

If you're looking for off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, consider visiting the Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz. It is a vibrant arts district with contemporary art galleries, trendy cafes, and unique boutiques. Another local favorite is the Dubai Miracle Garden, a breathtaking floral paradise showcasing intricate flower arrangements and structures.

For a taste of traditional Emirati cuisine, head to the Al Fahidi neighborhood and visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Here, you can enjoy a traditional Arabian breakfast or lunch while learning about Emirati customs and traditions from friendly locals.

Lastly, don't miss the opportunity to take a traditional dhow cruise along Dubai Creek. Enjoy panoramic views of the city's skyline, feast on a sumptuous dinner, and experience the city's heritage from the water.

For hotel and flight prices, click here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version