Dubai & Abu Dhabi 7-Day Itinerary

Saturday October 21: Arrival in Dubai

Start your trip in Dubai by immersing yourself in the city's modern skyline. In the morning, visit the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, and enjoy breathtaking views from the observation deck. In the afternoon, explore the Dubai Mall, a shopper's paradise with over 1,200 stores and entertainment options. As the evening sets in, head to the Dubai Marina area for a relaxing walk along the waterfront and dinner at one of the vibrant restaurants.

• Burj Khalifa: Estimated cost AED 149 ($40), Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Dubai Mall: Free entry, Estimated time spent 3-4 hours
• Dubai Marina: Estimated cost for dinner AED 150-300 ($41-82), Estimated time spent 2-3 hours

Sunday October 22: Dubai Cultural Exploration

Immerse yourself in Dubai's rich culture and heritage. In the morning, visit the Dubai Museum housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, showcasing the city's history. In the afternoon, take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek to the vibrant Deira neighborhood, known for its bustling souks and spice markets. As the evening approaches, head to the Dubai Opera to catch a performance or enjoy a traditional Emirati meal at a local restaurant.

• Dubai Museum: Estimated cost AED 3 ($0.82), Estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Abra ride: Estimated cost AED 1 ($0.27), Estimated time spent 30 minutes
• Deira Souks: Estimated cost for shopping AED 100-200 ($27-55), Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Dubai Opera: Estimated cost for performance AED 150-500 ($41-137), Estimated time spent varies

Monday October 23: Abu Dhabi City Tour

Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. In the morning, visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a magnificent architectural masterpiece. In the afternoon, explore the cultural district of Saadiyat Island, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and other world-class museums. As the evening sets in, stroll along the Corniche promenade and enjoy dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free entry, Estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: Estimated cost AED 60 ($16), Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Corniche: Free, Estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Dinner at Corniche: Estimated cost AED 100-200 ($27-55), Estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Tuesday October 24: Dubai Desert Adventure

Embark on an exciting desert adventure in Dubai. In the morning, go on a thrilling dune bashing experience in a 4x4 vehicle. In the afternoon, experience camel riding and sandboarding in the vast desert. As the evening approaches, enjoy a traditional Bedouin-style dinner and be entertained by live performances under the starry desert sky.

• Dune bashing: Estimated cost AED 250-350 ($68-95), Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Camel riding: Estimated cost AED 50-100 ($14-27), Estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Sandboarding: Estimated cost AED 50-100 ($14-27), Estimated time spent 1-2 hours
• Desert dinner and entertainment: Estimated cost AED 200-300 ($55-82), Estimated time spent 2-3 hours

Wednesday October 25: Modern Dubai Exploration

Discover the modern side of Dubai and its iconic landmarks. In the morning, visit the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree, and explore the famous Atlantis, The Palm resort. In the afternoon, indulge in a shopping spree at the luxurious Mall of the Emirates, home to Ski Dubai. As the evening sets in, watch the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show at the base of the Burj Khalifa.

• Palm Jumeirah: Free entry, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Atlantis, The Palm: Estimated cost for activities AED 200-400 ($55-109), Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• Mall of the Emirates: Free entry, Estimated time spent 3-4 hours
• Dubai Fountain: Free, Estimated time spent 30 minutes

Thursday October 26: Dubai Marina and JBR Beach

Relax and enjoy the beachside atmosphere of Dubai. In the morning, explore the vibrant Dubai Marina area and take a leisurely walk along the marina promenade. In the afternoon, head to the popular Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) Beach for sunbathing and water activities. As the evening approaches, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the beachfront restaurants.

• Dubai Marina: Free, Estimated time spent 2-3 hours
• JBR Beach: Free, Estimated time spent 3-4 hours
• Dinner at JBR: Estimated cost AED 150-300 ($41-82), Estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Friday October 27: Departure from Dubai

On your last day, take some time to relax and explore any remaining attractions or go shopping for souvenirs. In the afternoon, check out from your hotel and head to the airport for your departure.

• Optional activities or shopping: Cost varies, Estimated time spent varies
• Hotel check-out: Time spent depends on check-out policy
• Airport transfer: Estimated cost AED 50-100 ($14-27), Estimated time spent 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Dubai and Abu Dhabi, don't miss out on some hidden gems and local favorites. Visit the Al Bastakiya neighborhood in Dubai's historic district for its traditional architecture and art galleries. In Abu Dhabi, explore the Mangrove National Park for a unique kayaking experience amidst the serene mangroves. Additionally, try the local Emirati cuisine at small local restaurants to savor authentic flavors.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.