Monday, September 11: Exploring the Modern Marvels
Start your trip by immersing yourself in the futuristic cityscape of Dubai. In the morning, visit the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, and take in breathtaking views from its observation deck. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Mall, where you can shop at luxury stores, visit the Dubai Aquarium, and witness the captivating Dubai Fountain show. As the evening sets in, experience the vibrant nightlife at Souk Madinat Jumeirah, an Arabian-style shopping and entertainment complex.
Dubai Mall: Free to enter, Additional costs for attractions inside, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Souk Madinat Jumeirah: No entrance fee, costs vary for dining and shopping, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Sum of Us in Dubai, a modern café known for its specialty coffee and delicious pastries. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50-70 per person.
For lunch, try Al Mallah in Dubai, a popular Lebanese restaurant serving flavorful shawarmas and falafels. Average cost for a meal is about AED 30-40 per person.
For dinner, dine at Pierchic in Dubai, a romantic seafood restaurant located on a pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Average cost for a meal is about AED 500-700 per person.
Tuesday, September 12: Cultural Exploration in Dubai
Start your day by visiting the historic district of Al Fahidi. Explore the narrow lanes of the Al Bastakiya Quarter, visit the Dubai Museum housed in Al Fahidi Fort, and take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek to the vibrant Deira neighborhood. Afternoon can be spent exploring the traditional markets of Deira, such as the Gold Souk and Spice Souk. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Emirati dinner at a local restaurant.
Al Fahidi District: Free to explore, Dubai Museum entrance fee - AED 3 (approx. $0.82), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Deira: Free to explore, Abra ride - AED 1 (approx. $0.27), Time spent - 2-3 hours
Gold Souk & Spice Souk: Free to explore, Costs vary for purchases, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Emirati Dinner: Estimated cost - AED 100-150 (approx. $27-41) per person
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Al Fahidi is Arabian Tea House, where you can enjoy a traditional Emirati breakfast of balaleet (sweet vermicelli with an omelette), along with a cup of karak tea. The average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
For a delicious lunch in Deira, head to Bayt Al Wakeel. This restaurant offers a wide range of authentic Arabic dishes, including shawarma, mezze platters, and freshly baked bread. The average cost for a meal is about AED 80 per person.
To experience a memorable dinner, visit Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in Al Fahidi. Here, you can have a traditional Emirati dinner with local delicacies such as machbous (spiced rice with meat) and harees (a creamy wheat and meat dish). The average cost for a meal is about AED 100 per person.
Wednesday, September 13: Abu Dhabi City Highlights
Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. Start your day by visiting the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world's largest mosques. Explore the cultural hub of Saadiyat Island, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi. In the evening, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Corniche, a picturesque waterfront promenade.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free to enter, Guided tours available, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Saadiyat Island: Free to explore, Admission fees for museums if visiting, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Corniche: Free to visit, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Coffee Club located in the heart of Abu Dhabi. This trendy café offers a variety of breakfast options ranging from delicious pancakes to healthy avocado toasts. The average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
For lunch, try the Al Arish Lebanese Restaurant, known for its authentic Lebanese cuisine. Feast on mouthwatering kebabs, mezze platters, and flavorful shawarmas. The average cost for a meal is about 70 AED per person.
For dinner, indulge in a unique dining experience at the Observation Deck at 300 in Abu Dhabi. This revolving restaurant offers panoramic city views while you enjoy a fine selection of international dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 200 AED per person.
Thursday, September 14: Desert Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating desert safari experience. Start your morning with a thrilling dune bashing session in a 4x4 vehicle, followed by sandboarding and camel riding. In the afternoon, visit a traditional Bedouin camp where you can enjoy cultural activities, indulge in a delicious barbecue dinner, and be entertained by belly dancers and falcon shows. End the day with stargazing in the desert.
Desert Safari: Estimated cost - AED 250-400 (approx. $68-109) per person, Time spent - 6-8 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a hearty breakfast at The Hamptons Café. This cozy café offers a variety of breakfast options, from fluffy pancakes to delicious omelettes. Average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Jones the Grocer. This contemporary restaurant serves up a range of delicious dishes, including gourmet sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. Average cost for a meal is about 70 AED per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Pierchic. This award-winning seafood restaurant offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and an exquisite menu featuring fresh seafood delicacies. Average cost for a meal is about 350 AED per person.
Friday, September 15: Modern Wonders of Dubai
Spend the day exploring some of Dubai's iconic modern attractions. Start your morning at the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island that is home to luxurious resorts and the famous Atlantis, The Palm. Enjoy the stunning views from the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk and visit The Lost Chambers Aquarium. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Marina and take a relaxing yacht cruise along the coastline. End the day with dinner at one of the trendy restaurants in the vibrant Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) area.
Palm Jumeirah: Free to visit, Additional costs for attractions, Time spent - 3-4 hours
Dubai Marina Yacht Cruise: Estimated cost - AED 200-300 (approx. $54-82) per person, Time spent - 2-3 hours
JBR Dining: Costs vary depending on the restaurant
Saturday, September 16: Souks and Skyscrapers
Start your day by exploring the traditional markets of Dubai. Visit the vibrant and aromatic Spice Souk, where you can purchase a variety of spices, herbs, and local delicacies. Next, head to the nearby Gold Souk, known for its dazzling displays of gold and jewelry. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Marina area and take a stroll along The Walk, a bustling promenade with shops, restaurants, and street performers. End your trip by experiencing the thrill of a helicopter tour, offering panoramic views of Dubai's iconic skyscrapers.
Spice Souk: Free to explore, Costs vary for purchases, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Gold Souk: Free to explore, Costs vary for purchases, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Dubai Marina - The Walk: Free to visit, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Helicopter Tour: Estimated cost - AED 700-1,000 (approx. $191-273) per person, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Brass Coffee & Community in Dubai Marina. This cozy cafe offers a variety of breakfast options such as avocado toast and smoked salmon bagels. The average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
For lunch, visit Operation: Falafel in Jumeirah Lakes Towers. This casual eatery serves delicious Middle Eastern street food, including falafel wraps and shawarmas. The average cost for a meal is about 30 AED per person.
For dinner, dine at Pierchic in Madinat Jumeirah. This stunning seafood restaurant is located on a pier and offers breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. Enjoy fresh seafood dishes such as grilled lobster and oysters. The average cost for a meal is about 400 AED per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For hidden gems and local favorites, consider visiting the Alserkal Avenue in Dubai. This arts and cultural district is home to contemporary art galleries, unique boutiques, and trendy cafes. Another off the beaten path attraction is the Qasr Al Hosn in Abu Dhabi, the oldest stone building in the city, offering insights into the region's history and culture. Additionally, take a walk along the Dubai Creek and explore the bustling neighborhoods of Al Rigga and Al Bastakiya, where you can find traditional souks, heritage houses, and local street food stalls.