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Dubai and Abu Dhabi 7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary

Monday, September 11: Arrival in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by exploring the iconic Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building. In the morning, visit the observation deck for breathtaking views. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls in the world, for shopping and entertainment. In the evening, take a traditional abra boat ride across Dubai Creek and explore the vibrant souks.

  • Burj Khalifa: Cost estimate - AED 149 for observation deck, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Mall: Free entry, Cost estimate for shopping - as per your budget, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Dubai Creek: Cost estimate - AED 1 for abra boat ride, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Tuesday, September 12: Old Dubai Exploration

Discover the cultural heritage of Dubai by visiting the historic district of Al Fahidi. In the morning, explore the Al Fahidi Fort, which houses the Dubai Museum. In the afternoon, wander through the narrow lanes of Al Bastakiya and visit the art galleries and cafés. In the evening, experience the vibrant atmosphere of the traditional souks and indulge in some local street food.

  • Al Fahidi Fort and Dubai Museum: Cost estimate - AED 3, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Al Bastakiya: Free entry, Cost estimate for food - as per your budget, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Traditional souks: Cost estimate - as per your shopping preferences, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Wednesday, September 13: Abu Dhabi City Tour

Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the UAE. In the morning, visit the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece. In the afternoon, explore the cultural hub of Saadiyat Island and visit the Louvre Abu Dhabi. In the evening, stroll along the Corniche waterfront and enjoy the beautiful sunset views.

  • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free entry, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Louvre Abu Dhabi: Cost estimate - AED 63, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Corniche waterfront: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Thursday, September 14: Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah

Explore the modern side of Dubai by visiting Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. In the morning, take a walk along the Dubai Marina promenade and enjoy the stunning waterfront views. In the afternoon, visit the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island, and relax at one of the public beaches. In the evening, explore The Walk at JBR and indulge in some street food.

  • Dubai Marina: Free entry, Cost estimate for food - as per your budget, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Palm Jumeirah: Free entry, Cost estimate for beach activities - as per your budget, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • The Walk at JBR: Cost estimate for food - as per your budget, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Friday, September 15: Shopping Extravaganza

Spend the day exploring Dubai's shopping scene. In the morning, visit the traditional Gold and Spice Souks in Deira and immerse yourself in the local culture. In the afternoon, head to the outlet malls in Dubai Outlet Village or Dubai Outlet Mall for discounted designer brands. In the evening, experience the glitz and glamour of the Dubai Mall's Fashion Avenue.

  • Gold and Spice Souks: Cost estimate - as per your shopping preferences, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Outlet Village or Dubai Outlet Mall: Cost estimate for shopping - as per your budget, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Dubai Mall Fashion Avenue: Free entry, Cost estimate for shopping - as per your budget, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Saturday, September 16: Desert Safari Adventure

Embark on an exhilarating desert safari adventure. In the morning, take a thrilling dune bashing ride in the Dubai desert. In the afternoon, experience traditional activities like camel riding, sandboarding, and henna painting. In the evening, enjoy a delicious BBQ dinner under the starry sky while watching live entertainment.

  • Desert Safari: Cost estimate - AED 150-200, Time spent - 6-7 hours
Sunday, September 17: Modern Dubai Highlights

Explore the modern architectural wonders of Dubai. In the morning, visit the Palm Islands and Atlantis, The Palm, a luxury resort. In the afternoon, indulge in some retail therapy at the Mall of the Emirates and experience skiing in Ski Dubai. In the evening, enjoy the stunning fountain show at the Dubai Fountain.

  • Palm Islands and Atlantis, The Palm: Free entry, Cost estimate for activities - as per your budget, Time spent - 2-3 hours
  • Mall of the Emirates and Ski Dubai: Free entry, Cost estimate for activities - as per your budget, Time spent - 3-4 hours
  • Dubai Fountain: Free entry, Time spent - 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Alserkal Avenue in Dubai, an arts and cultural district with contemporary art galleries and creative spaces. Another local favorite is the Heritage Village in Abu Dhabi, a reconstructed traditional village that showcases the UAE's cultural heritage. These attractions offer unique experiences without breaking the bank.

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