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A Week in Dubai: An Extravagant Adventure

Tuesday, August 15: Exploring Old Dubai

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Old Dubai. In the morning, visit the Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort, which offers a captivating glimpse into the city's past. Afterward, wander through the narrow streets of the Al Bastakiya Quarter, admiring the traditional Arabian architecture and art galleries. For a traditional lunch, head to the atmospheric Arabian Tea House. In the afternoon, take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek to the bustling spice and gold souks. End the day with a visit to the stunning Jumeirah Mosque, a symbol of Islamic architecture.

  • Dubai Museum: Approx. 10 AED ($3 USD), 1-2 hours
  • Al Bastakiya Quarter: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Arabian Tea House: Approx. 100 AED ($27 USD), 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Creek Abra Ride: Approx. 1 AED ($0.3 USD), 1 hour
  • Gold and Spice Souks: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Jumeirah Mosque: Free, 1 hour
Wednesday, August 16: Modern Marvels

Experience the futuristic side of Dubai on your second day. Start with a visit to the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building. Take the elevator to the observation deck on the 148th floor for incredible panoramic views. Next, head to The Dubai Mall, a shopper's paradise offering a wide range of high-end brands and entertainment options. Enjoy lunch at one of the mall's many restaurants. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, where you can see a mesmerizing variety of marine life. End the day with the magical Dubai Fountain show, set against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa.

  • Burj Khalifa: Approx. 169 AED ($46 USD) for observation deck, 2-3 hours
  • The Dubai Mall: Free, time spent depends on personal preferences
  • Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Approx. 120 AED ($33 USD), 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Fountain: Free, 30 minutes
Thursday, August 17: Desert Adventure

Escape the city for a thrilling desert experience. Join a desert safari tour in the morning and embark on a thrilling dune bashing adventure. Enjoy camel riding, sandboarding, and traditional activities like henna painting and falconry. Indulge in a delicious Arabic buffet lunch at a desert camp. In the afternoon, relax at a Bedouin-style camp, where you can try shisha and watch traditional entertainment such as belly dancing. Conclude the day with a mesmerizing desert sunset and a sumptuous BBQ dinner under the starry night sky.

  • Desert Safari Tour: Approx. 250 AED ($68 USD), 6-7 hours
Friday, August 18: Palm Jumeirah and Aquaventure Waterpark

Explore the iconic Palm Jumeirah Island on your fourth day. Start by visiting the luxurious Atlantis, The Palm resort. Explore the Lost Chambers Aquarium, a fascinating underwater world, and marvel at the marine life. In the afternoon, head to Aquaventure Waterpark, located at Atlantis. Enjoy thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and a private beach. Have lunch at one of the park's restaurants. After an exciting day, relax in the evening at one of the Palm Jumeirah's beachfront bars or restaurants, savoring the stunning views.

  • Lost Chambers Aquarium: Approx. 100 AED ($27 USD), 1-2 hours
  • Aquaventure Waterpark: Approx. 320 AED ($87 USD), 4-5 hours
Saturday, August 19: Cultural Experiences

Immerse yourself in Emirati culture on your fifth day. Start with a visit to the Dubai Frame, an architectural marvel offering panoramic views of old and new Dubai. Next, head to the Etihad Museum to learn about the UAE's rich history and its journey to independence. Enjoy a traditional Emirati lunch at the Arabian Tea House in the Al Fahidi Historical District. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Opera, a world-class performing arts venue. End the day by experiencing a Dhow Dinner Cruise, sailing along Dubai Marina or Dubai Creek, while enjoying a delicious dinner and live entertainment.

  • Dubai Frame: Approx. 50 AED ($14 USD), 1-2 hours
  • Etihad Museum: Approx. 25 AED ($7 USD), 1-2 hours
  • Arabian Tea House: Approx. 100 AED ($27 USD), 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Opera: Price varies based on event, 2-3 hours
  • Dhow Dinner Cruise: Approx. 200 AED ($54 USD), 2-3 hours
Sunday, August 20: Beach Day at Jumeirah Beach

Relax and enjoy the sun, sand, and turquoise waters of Jumeirah Beach on your sixth day. Spend the morning lounging on the beach or indulge in water sports such as jet skiing or paddleboarding. Enjoy a leisurely beachside lunch at one of the many restaurants along the beach promenade. In the afternoon, visit the nearby Burj Al Arab, the iconic sail-shaped luxury hotel. Take stunning photos of this architectural masterpiece and enjoy the luxurious surroundings. End the day by watching the sunset at Jumeirah Beach, a perfect way to conclude your beach day.

  • Jumeirah Beach: Free, time spent depends on personal preferences
  • Burj Al Arab: Exterior visit is free, 1-2 hours
Monday, August 21: Shopping Extravaganza

Indulge in a day of shopping on your last day in Dubai. Start at the Mall of the Emirates, where you can visit Ski Dubai, an indoor ski resort, and enjoy skiing or snowboarding. Have lunch at one of the mall's many restaurants. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Marina Mall for more shopping and a stroll along the stunning marina promenade. For a unique shopping experience, visit the traditional markets and boutiques in the vibrant neighborhood of Alserkal Avenue. In the evening, explore the iconic Dubai Marina Walk and enjoy dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.

  • Mall of the Emirates: Free, time spent depends on personal preferences
  • Dubai Marina Mall: Free, time spent depends on personal preferences
  • Alserkal Avenue: Free, time spent depends on personal preferences
  • Dubai Marina Walk: Free, time spent depends on personal preferences

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, head to the Al Quoz neighborhood. Explore the Alserkal Cultural Foundation, a hub for contemporary art exhibitions and events. Discover the unique warehouses of Alserkal Avenue, housing art galleries, independent cafes, and niche boutiques. Don't miss the outdoor street art in the area, adding vibrant colors to the industrial landscape. Enjoy a cup of coffee at one of the hipster coffee shops, such as The Espresso Lab or Nightjar Coffee Roasters.

To check hotel and flight prices, visit Kayak.

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