In the morning, visit the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, also known as Bastakiya. Wander through the narrow lanes, admiring the traditional Arabian architecture and courtyard houses. In the afternoon, take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek to the vibrant Spice Souk and Gold Souk. As the evening sets in, head to the iconic Dubai Frame for stunning panoramic views of the city.
Al Fahidi (Bastakiya) neighborhood: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Abra ride across Dubai Creek: Cost estimate: AED 1, Time spent: 30 minutes
Spice Souk and Gold Souk: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Dubai Frame: Cost estimate: AED 50, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A must-visit for breakfast is Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi neighborhood. Enjoy a traditional Emirati breakfast in a charming courtyard setting. Average cost for a meal is about AED 40 per person.
For lunch, head to Bayt Al Wakeel, a historic restaurant located on Dubai Creek. Indulge in delicious Arabic and seafood dishes while enjoying stunning views of the water. Average cost for a meal is about AED 80 per person.
For a memorable dinner, try Pierchic, situated on a private pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Feast on freshly caught seafood in a romantic and elegant setting. Average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.
Wednesday, November 8: Modern Dubai Exploration
Start your day with a visit to the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city from the observation deck. In the afternoon, explore The Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world, which offers a wide range of shopping, dining, and entertainment options. In the evening, indulge in a luxury dinner cruise along Dubai Marina, taking in the stunning skyline.
Burj Khalifa: Cost estimate: AED 149, Time spent: 2-3 hours
The Dubai Mall: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Dinner cruise along Dubai Marina: Cost estimate: AED 200-500, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your morning with a delicious breakfast at The Breakfast Club. This trendy restaurant offers a variety of breakfast options including pancakes, eggs benedict, and avocado toast. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
For lunch, head to Tashas. This stylish cafe serves up a diverse menu featuring salads, sandwiches, and pastas. Don't miss their famous truffle fries. Average cost for a meal is about AED 80 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Pierchic. Located on a pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf, this seafood restaurant offers a romantic atmosphere and stunning views. The menu includes fresh seafood dishes like lobster and sea bass. Average cost for a meal is about AED 350 per person.
Thursday, November 9: Day Trip to Abu Dhabi
Embark on a day trip to the neighboring city of Abu Dhabi. Visit the grand Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece. Explore the cultural attractions on Saadiyat Island, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and Manarat Al Saadiyat. In the evening, catch a Formula 1 race or concert at the Yas Marina Circuit.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Louvre Abu Dhabi: Cost estimate: AED 63, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Manarat Al Saadiyat: Cost estimate: AED 25, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Yas Marina Circuit: Cost estimate: Varies depending on event, Time spent: Varies
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Abu Dhabi is The Third Place Cafe, offering a variety of pastries and coffee. The average cost for a meal is about 30 AED per person.
For a delicious lunch option, try Jones the Grocer, known for its gourmet sandwiches and salads. The average cost for a meal is about 60 AED per person.
In the evening, indulge in a fine dining experience at Li Jiang, a Chinese restaurant with breathtaking views. The average cost for a meal is about 250 AED per person.
Friday, November 10: Desert Safari Experience
Embark on an exciting desert safari adventure. Start the day with a thrilling dune bashing experience in a 4x4 vehicle. Engage in sandboarding and camel riding. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars, accompanied by live entertainment including belly dancing and Tanoura dance.
Desert safari with dune bashing: Cost estimate: AED 200-300, Time spent: 6-7 hours
Sandboarding and camel riding: Cost estimate: Included in desert safari, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Bedouin-style dinner and entertainment: Cost estimate: Included in desert safari, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Saturday, November 11: Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis
Explore the man-made island of Palm Jumeirah. Begin your day with a visit to the iconic Atlantis, The Palm, a luxury resort offering various attractions including Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium. In the afternoon, relax on one of the stunning beaches or enjoy water sports activities. End the day with a visit to The Pointe, a waterfront dining and entertainment destination.
Atlantis, The Palm: Cost estimate: Varies depending on attractions, Time spent: 4-5 hours
Beach activities on Palm Jumeirah: Cost estimate: Varies depending on activities, Time spent: 2-3 hours
The Pointe: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
Restaurants
The Breakfast Club: Enjoy a delicious and hearty breakfast at The Breakfast Club, located in Palm Jumeirah. They offer a variety of breakfast options such as eggs benedict, pancakes, and avocado toast. Average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
RIVA Beach Club: For lunch with a view, head to RIVA Beach Club. Situated on Palm Jumeirah, this beachside club offers a relaxed dining experience with a menu featuring salads, sandwiches, and seafood options. Average cost for a meal is about AED 100 per person.
Seafire Steakhouse: Indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Seafire Steakhouse, located in Atlantis, The Palm. This award-winning restaurant offers a variety of premium cuts of beef cooked to perfection, along with a selection of seafood dishes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 300 per person.
Sunday, November 12: Dubai Marina and JBR Walk
Start your day with a leisurely walk along Dubai Marina, a picturesque waterfront area lined with luxury yachts and skyscrapers. Explore the Marina Walk and enjoy breakfast at one of the trendy cafes. In the afternoon, head to JBR Walk, a buzzing promenade offering a wide range of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. End the day by watching the breathtaking Dubai Fountain show.
Dubai Marina Walk: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
JBR Walk: Cost estimate: Varies depending on activities, Time spent: 3-4 hours
Dubai Fountain: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 30 minutes
Restaurants
Start your morning off with a delicious breakfast at Cafe Bateel, located in Dubai Marina. Indulge in their wide variety of freshly baked pastries and gourmet coffees. Average cost for a meal is about 70 AED per person.
For lunch, head to The Cheesecake Factory at JBR Walk. Enjoy their extensive menu which includes delicious salads, sandwiches, and of course, their famous cheesecakes. Average cost for a meal is about 100 AED per person.
End your day with a memorable dinner at Pierchic, a romantic seafood restaurant situated on a private pier. Delight in their exquisite seafood dishes while enjoying stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Average cost for a meal is about 400 AED per person.
Monday, November 13: Dubai Parks and Resorts
Spend your last day exploring Dubai Parks and Resorts, an entertainment complex that includes Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Dubai. Enjoy thrilling rides, shows, and attractions suitable for all ages. End your trip with a fireworks show in the evening.
Dubai Parks and Resorts: Cost estimate: AED 295-350, Time spent: 6-7 hours
Fireworks show: Cost estimate: Free, Time spent: 30 minutes
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For those looking to venture off the beaten path, make sure to visit the Al Quoz neighborhood, known for its contemporary art galleries and trendy cafes. Head to the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning flower park with unique displays. Don't miss exploring the historic district of Al Shindagha, home to the Dubai Museum and traditional wind towers.