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 59 travelers

7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Dubai

Saturday, December 23: Exploring Old Dubai

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich historical charm of Old Dubai. In the morning, visit the Dubai Museum located in Al Fahidi Fort, showcasing the city's cultural heritage. Afterward, explore the bustling streets of Al Bastakiya, a traditional Arabian neighborhood known for its narrow lanes and historic buildings. In the afternoon, take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek to the spice and gold souks. As the evening approaches, head to the Dubai Frame for panoramic views of the city's skyline.

  • Dubai Museum: Entrance fee: AED 3 (approximately $0.82), Time spent: 2 hours
  • Al Bastakiya: Free, Time spent: 2 hours
  • Spice and Gold Souks: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Frame: Entrance fee: AED 50 (approximately $13.61), Time spent: 1 hour
Sunday, December 24: Modern Dubai Highlights

Discover the modern side of Dubai on your second day. In the morning, visit the impressive Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, and enjoy breathtaking views from the observation deck. Afterward, explore the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world, where you can shop, dine, and even visit the Dubai Aquarium. In the afternoon, head to the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree, and relax at Jumeirah Beach. As the evening unfolds, visit the Dubai Marina Walk for a leisurely stroll and enjoy the stunning skyline.

  • Burj Khalifa: Observation deck ticket starting from AED 149 (approximately $40.55), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Mall: Free, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Palm Jumeirah: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Marina Walk: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Monday, December 25: Desert Safari Adventure

Embark on an exciting desert safari adventure on your third day. In the morning, visit the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and enjoy a camel ride or dune bashing experience. Afterward, immerse yourself in Bedouin culture at a traditional desert camp, where you can try sandboarding, get a henna tattoo, and enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner. As the evening sets in, witness mesmerizing belly dance performances under the starlit sky.

  • Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve: Starting from AED 350 (approximately $95.23), Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Desert Safari Camp: Starting from AED 150 (approximately $40.83), Time spent: 6-7 hours
Tuesday, December 26: Cultural Exploration

Delve into Dubai's cultural offerings on your fourth day. In the morning, visit the Jumeirah Mosque, one of the few mosques open to non-Muslim visitors. Afterward, explore the Dubai Opera, a stunning architectural landmark, and catch a matinee show or take a guided tour. In the afternoon, wander through the vibrant neighborhood of Alserkal Avenue, known for its contemporary art galleries and unique boutiques. As the evening approaches, experience the traditional Emirati cuisine at a local restaurant.

  • Jumeirah Mosque: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Opera: Ticket prices vary, Time spent: Varies
  • Alserkal Avenue: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Emirati Restaurant: Starting from AED 50 (approximately $13.61), Time spent: 1-2 hours
Wednesday, December 27: Waterfront Excursion

Enjoy a day by the waterfront on your fifth day. In the morning, visit La Mer, a vibrant beachfront destination offering water sports, shopping, and dining options. You can relax on the sandy beach, try some adventurous activities, or explore the unique street art. In the afternoon, make your way to the Dubai Marina Yacht Club and take a scenic boat tour around the marina. As the evening sets in, experience the Dubai Fountain Show, a spectacular water and light show set to music.

  • La Mer: Free, Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Dubai Marina Yacht Club: Boat tour prices vary, Time spent: 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Fountain Show: Free, Time spent: 30 minutes
Thursday, December 28: Abu Dhabi Day Trip

Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, on your sixth day. In the morning, visit the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece. Explore the cultural district of Saadiyat Island, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and other museums. In the afternoon, make your way to Yas Island and indulge in thrilling rides at Ferrari World or cool off at Yas Waterworld. As the evening approaches, stroll along the Corniche and enjoy the beautiful sunset.

  • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Louvre Abu Dhabi: Ticket prices vary, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Ferrari World/Yas Waterworld: Starting from AED 295 (approximately $80.23), Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Corniche: Free, Time spent: 1-2 hours
Friday, December 29: Souvenir Shopping and Farewell

On your last day, spend the morning exploring the traditional Souk Madinat Jumeirah, where you can find unique souvenirs, handicrafts, and local products. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral paradise featuring elaborate displays. As the evening unfolds, bid farewell to Dubai by enjoying a delicious dinner at a local restaurant and reflecting on your amazing trip.

  • Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Miracle Garden: Entrance fee: AED 55 (approximately $14.99), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Local Restaurant: Starting from AED 60 (approximately $16.33), Time spent: 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, consider visiting the quirky Al Fahidi neighborhood, filled with art galleries and charming cafes. Explore the Dubai Water Canal, a scenic waterfront promenade perfect for a leisurely walk or bike ride. Don't miss the Al Quoz neighborhood, known for its vibrant art scene and unique warehouse galleries. Visit the Dubai Flea Market, where you can find second-hand treasures and unique handmade crafts at affordable prices.

For hotel and flight prices, check out kayak.com.

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