10-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Dubai

  1. Day 1: Burj Khalifa
    5 minutes walk from Dubai Mall

    Visit the world's tallest building and take in stunning views from the observation deck on the 148th floor.

  2. Day 2: Dubai Museum
    15 minutes taxi ride from Burj Khalifa

    Explore the history and culture of Dubai at this museum in the historic Al Fahidi Fort.

  3. Day 3: Dubai Creek
    20 minutes bus ride from Dubai Museum

    Cross the creek on an abra (traditional boat) and wander through the bustling souks (markets) on the Deira side.

  4. Day 4: Dubai Miracle Garden
    40 minutes bus ride from Dubai Creek

    Marvel at over 45 million plants arranged in intricate patterns and structures at one of the world's largest flower gardens.

  5. Day 5: Dubai Marina Walk
    30 minutes taxi ride from Dubai Miracle Garden

    Stroll along the marina while taking in the glittering skyscrapers before stopping for a bite at one of the many cafes and restaurants.

  6. Day 6: Jumeirah Beach
    10 minutes taxi ride from Dubai Marina Walk

    Laze on the golden sands of this popular beach while admiring the imposing Burj Al Arab hotel in the distance.

  7. Day 7: Dubai Mall
    30 minutes taxi ride from Jumeirah Beach

    Shop for luxury brands, take a stroll through the aquarium, or catch a movie at one of the largest malls in the world.

  8. Day 8: Dubai Frame
    20 minutes taxi ride from Dubai Mall

    Enjoy panoramic views of old and new Dubai from this towering frame structure that straddles the city's past and future.

  9. Day 9: Al Bastakiya
    25 minutes taxi ride from Dubai Frame

    Get lost in the winding alleyways of this traditional neighbourhood while admiring the restored wind-tower houses and galleries.

  10. Day 10: Global Village
    30 minutes taxi ride from Al Bastakiya

    Experience a whirlwind tour of the world's cultures and cuisines at this massive park that comes alive during the winter months.

Time and Costs Estimates

  • Burj Khalifa (2 hours, 149 AED)
  • Dubai Museum (2 hours, 3 AED)
  • Dubai Creek (2 hours, 1 AED each way for abra ride)
  • Dubai Miracle Garden (2-3 hours, 55 AED)
  • Dubai Marina Walk (3 hours, Free)
  • Jumeirah Beach (3 hours, Free)
  • Dubai Mall (4 hours, Free)
  • Dubai Frame (2 hours, 50 AED)
  • Al Bastakiya (2 hours, Free)
  • Global Village (4 hours, 15 AED)

  • Total Estimated Costs: 276 AED or $75 USD

Useful Tips

If you have more time, consider visiting the Dubai Miracle Garden on a weekday to avoid crowds or take a day trip to the nearby desert for some dune bashing and camel riding. If you have less time, skip the Global Village and the Dubai Museum and spend more time exploring the souks or soaking in the sun at the beach.

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