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A Week in Dubai: Exploring the Jewel of the Middle East

Saturday, October 28: Arrival and Dubai Marina

Start your adventure in Dubai by exploring the modern and glamorous Dubai Marina. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along the marina promenade, admiring the stunning yachts and luxurious waterfront buildings. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) where you can relax on the sandy beach or indulge in some retail therapy at The Walk, a vibrant outdoor shopping boulevard. As the evening sets in, enjoy a dinner cruise along Dubai Marina, where you can savour delicious cuisine while taking in the breathtaking skyline views.

  • Dubai Marina Promenade: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR): Free, 2-3 hours
  • Dinner Cruise: Approx. 250 AED ($68), 3-4 hours
Sunday, October 29: Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall

On your second day, immerse yourself in the futuristic charm of Downtown Dubai. In the morning, visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. Afterward, head to the nearby Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls globally, for some retail therapy and a visit to the mesmerizing Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show, a captivating display of water, light, and music.

  • Burj Khalifa: Approx. 200 AED ($54), 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Mall: Free entry, shopping time varies
  • Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Approx. 150 AED ($41), 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Fountain: Free, 30 minutes
Restaurants
  • For breakfast, head to The Pavilion Downtown Dubai, a charming cafe with an outdoor seating area overlooking the Dubai Fountain. Enjoy a delicious breakfast spread for around AED 60 per person.
  • For lunch, try the contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine at Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe. Indulge in flavorful dishes like grilled kebabs and lamb biryani, with an average cost of around AED 100 per person.
  • For dinner, dine at Thiptara, an authentic Thai restaurant located right by the Burj Lake. Experience a blend of traditional flavors and stunning views of the Dubai Fountain. Enjoy a delectable Thai meal for around AED 200 per person.
Monday, October 30: Old Dubai and Souks

Today, explore the historic side of Dubai by visiting Old Dubai and its vibrant traditional souks. In the morning, wander through the narrow alleyways of Al Bastakiya, also known as Al Fahidi Historic District, and discover its charming wind towers and art galleries. Afterward, take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek to reach the bustling Deira area. Explore the famous Gold Souk, where you can admire dazzling displays of gold jewelry, and the Spice Souk, filled with aromatic spices and herbs. In the evening, enjoy a delicious dinner at a traditional Arabic restaurant in the Deira area.

  • Al Bastakiya: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Abra Ride: 1 AED ($0.27) per ticket, 30 minutes
  • Gold Souk: Free entry, shopping time varies
  • Spice Souk: Free entry, shopping time varies
  • Dinner at a local restaurant: Approx. 100 AED ($27), 1-2 hours
Tuesday, October 31: Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis

Discover the man-made wonder of Palm Jumeirah, an artificial palm-shaped island, on your fourth day. In the morning, relax on the pristine beaches and enjoy the luxurious amenities of one of the resorts on Palm Jumeirah. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Atlantis, The Palm. Explore its underwater world at The Lost Chambers Aquarium and take a thrilling water slide ride at Aquaventure Waterpark. As the evening approaches, indulge in a delectable dinner at one of the fine dining restaurants in Atlantis.

  • Palm Jumeirah Beach: Free, 3-4 hours
  • The Lost Chambers Aquarium: Approx. 100 AED ($27), 2-3 hours
  • Aquaventure Waterpark: Approx. 300 AED ($82), 3-4 hours
  • Dinner at Atlantis: Approx. 300 AED ($82), 1-2 hours
Wednesday, November 1: Desert Safari and Dinner

Experience the thrill of the desert on your final day in Dubai. In the morning, embark on an exciting desert safari adventure. Enjoy dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding, and experience the traditional Bedouin culture at a desert camp. As the sun sets, indulge in a sumptuous Arabian-style buffet dinner while being entertained by traditional music and dance performances. After dinner, gaze at the stars above the desert before returning to the city.

  • Desert Safari: Approx. 300 AED ($82), 6-7 hours
  • Desert Camp Dinner: Approx. 150 AED ($41), 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, consider visiting the Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz, an arts and culture district showcasing contemporary art galleries and creative spaces. Another hidden gem is the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral oasis in the middle of the desert. Locals also enjoy exploring the historic neighborhood of Al Fahidi at night, with its charming cafes, art galleries, and shisha lounges.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

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