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A Week in Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Wednesday, November 8: Arrive in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. In the morning, visit the observation deck on the 148th floor for breathtaking views of the city. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls globally, and indulge in some retail therapy. As the evening sets in, take a traditional abra (water taxi) ride across Dubai Creek to the historic neighborhood of Al Fahidi, known for its charming wind-tower houses.

  • Burj Khalifa: Cost Estimate - AED 200, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Mall: Cost Estimate - Varies, Time Spent - 2-4 hours
  • Al Fahidi Neighborhood: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Thursday, November 9: Exploring Old Dubai

Spend the morning exploring the cultural heritage of Dubai at the Dubai Museum located in Al Fahidi Fort. Afterward, take a traditional abra ride to the bustling Gold and Spice Souks in Deira. In the afternoon, visit the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree, and relax on the beautiful beaches. As the evening approaches, head to the Dubai Marina Walk for a leisurely stroll and enjoy dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.

  • Dubai Museum: Cost Estimate - AED 3, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Gold and Spice Souks: Cost Estimate - Varies, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Palm Jumeirah: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-4 hours
  • Dubai Marina Walk: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Friday, November 10: Abu Dhabi City Tour

Embark on a full-day excursion to Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. In the morning, visit the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. Afterward, explore the cultural district of Saadiyat Island, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and other art galleries. In the afternoon, head to Yas Island and visit Ferrari World, an indoor amusement park with thrilling rides. As the evening sets in, take a relaxing walk along the Corniche, a scenic waterfront promenade.

  • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Louvre Abu Dhabi: Cost Estimate - AED 63, Time Spent - 2-4 hours
  • Ferrari World: Cost Estimate - AED 295, Time Spent - 4-6 hours
  • Corniche: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Saturday, November 11: Modern Dubai

Explore the modern side of Dubai on this day. Start by visiting the Dubai Marina, a stunning waterfront district with impressive skyscrapers. In the morning, take a dhow cruise along the marina to enjoy the panoramic views. Afterward, head to the Dubai Miracle Garden, a vibrant floral paradise. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Frame, an architectural marvel offering a unique perspective of Old and New Dubai. As the evening approaches, experience the glitz and glamour of Downtown Dubai by watching the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show.

  • Dubai Marina: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Dhow Cruise: Cost Estimate - AED 150, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Miracle Garden: Cost Estimate - AED 55, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Frame: Cost Estimate - AED 50, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
  • Downtown Dubai (Dubai Fountain): Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Sunday, November 12: Desert Safari Adventure

Embark on an unforgettable desert safari adventure. In the morning, enjoy a thrilling dune bashing experience in a 4x4 vehicle. Afterward, engage in sandboarding and camel riding. Explore a traditional Bedouin camp and indulge in activities like henna painting and shisha smoking. As the evening sets in, savor a delicious BBQ dinner while being entertained by traditional performances such as belly dancing and tanoura dance.

  • Desert Safari: Cost Estimate - AED 200-300, Time Spent - 6-8 hours
Monday, November 13: Dubai Theme Parks

Spend the day exploring Dubai's theme parks. Start at IMG Worlds of Adventure, one of the world's largest indoor theme parks, featuring various thrilling rides and entertainment zones. In the afternoon, head to Motiongate Dubai, a Hollywood-inspired theme park with attractions based on popular movies. As the evening approaches, visit Global Village, a multicultural festival park showcasing pavilions from different countries with food, shopping, and live performances.

  • IMG Worlds of Adventure: Cost Estimate - AED 300, Time Spent - 4-6 hours
  • Motiongate Dubai: Cost Estimate - AED 275, Time Spent - 4-6 hours
  • Global Village: Cost Estimate - AED 15 (entry ticket), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Tuesday, November 14: Farewell to Dubai

Spend your last day in Dubai by exploring the Dubai Miracle Garden, a floral wonderland featuring stunning displays. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Mall once again for any last-minute shopping or to visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. As the evening sets in, head to the Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a traditional Arabian market, and enjoy dinner with a view of the iconic Burj Al Arab.

  • Dubai Miracle Garden: Cost Estimate - AED 55, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Cost Estimate - AED 175, Time Spent - 2-4 hours
  • Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Cost Estimate - Varies, Time Spent - 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Alserkal Avenue in Dubai, a vibrant arts district with galleries, cafes, and creative spaces. Another hidden gem is the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, where you can learn about the region's falconry traditions. Locals also love exploring the historic district of Al Ain, known for its ancient forts, traditional souks, and the picturesque Jebel Hafeet mountain.

To check hotel and flight prices for your trip to Dubai and Abu Dhabi, click here.

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