7-Day Itinerary in Dubai

Friday, September 22: Arrival in Dubai

Start your trip by arriving in Dubai and checking into your hotel. Take some time to relax and settle in, and then head out to explore the city. In the morning, visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and enjoy breathtaking views from the observation deck. In the afternoon, explore the Dubai Mall, a shopper's paradise with over 1,200 stores. In the evening, experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Dubai Marina, with its waterfront promenade and stunning skyscrapers.

• Burj Khalifa: Cost Estimate - AED 149 for At the Top observation deck, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Dubai Mall: Free entry, Cost Estimate - Varies depending on shopping preferences, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Dubai Marina: Free entry, Cost Estimate - Varies depending on dining preferences, Time Spent - Evening

Saturday, September 23: Old Dubai Exploration

Discover the historic side of Dubai in the morning by visiting the Dubai Creek and taking an abra (traditional boat) ride. Explore the Al Fahidi Historic District, home to traditional wind-tower houses and museums. In the afternoon, visit the vibrant Gold Souk and Spice Souk, where you can admire exquisite jewelry and spices. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Arabian dinner in the atmospheric Al Bastakiya district.

• Dubai Creek: Free entry, Cost Estimate - AED 1 for abra ride, Time Spent - Morning
• Al Fahidi Historic District: Free entry, Cost Estimate - AED 15 for Dubai Museum, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Gold Souk and Spice Souk: Free entry, Cost Estimate - Varies depending on shopping preferences, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Al Bastakiya: Cost Estimate - Varies depending on restaurant choice, Time Spent - Evening

Restaurants

• Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Arabian Tea House. This charming restaurant offers a variety of traditional Emirati dishes like Shakshuka and Balaleet. Average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
• For lunch, head to XVA Art Hotel Café. Located in the heart of Al Fahidi Historic District, this café offers a selection of fresh salads, sandwiches, and vegetarian options. Average cost for a meal is about 70 AED per person.
• End your day with a memorable dinner at Arabian Courtyard Restaurant. Indulge in authentic Arabian cuisine like Lamb Kofta and Chicken Biryani while enjoying live music and belly dancing. Average cost for a meal is about 150 AED per person.

Sunday, September 24: Desert Safari Adventure

Embark on an exciting desert safari adventure in the morning. Experience dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding in the vast desert. Enjoy a traditional Arabic lunch at a desert camp and indulge in activities like henna painting and falconry. In the evening, savor a delicious BBQ dinner while being entertained by cultural performances.

• Desert Safari: Cost Estimate - AED 250-350 per person, Time Spent - Morning till evening

Monday, September 25: Modern Dubai Highlights

Discover the modern side of Dubai by visiting Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree. Explore the iconic Atlantis, The Palm hotel and enjoy its aquarium and water park. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Miracle Garden, a colorful floral paradise. In the evening, experience the dazzling spectacle of the Dubai Fountain show.

• Palm Jumeirah: Free entry, Cost Estimate - Varies depending on activities, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Atlantis, The Palm: Cost Estimate - Varies depending on activities, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Dubai Miracle Garden: Cost Estimate - AED 55, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Dubai Fountain: Free entry, Time Spent - Evening

Tuesday, September 26: Day Trip to Abu Dhabi

Take a day trip to the neighboring city of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. Visit the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world's largest mosques, and admire its intricate architectural details. Explore the cultural hub of Saadiyat Island, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi. In the evening, stroll along the Corniche, a beautiful waterfront promenade.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free entry, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: Cost Estimate - AED 63, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
• Corniche: Free entry, Cost Estimate - Varies depending on dining preferences, Time Spent - Evening

Wednesday, September 27: Dubai Marina and JBR

Spend the day exploring the vibrant Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) area. Start by visiting the popular JBR Beach and enjoy some relaxing time by the sea. Take a walk along the lively waterfront promenade filled with restaurants, cafes, and shops. In the evening, experience the thrill of indoor skiing at Ski Dubai, located in the Mall of the Emirates.

• JBR Beach: Free entry, Time Spent - Morning
• Dubai Marina Walk: Free entry, Cost Estimate - Varies depending on dining preferences, Time Spent - Afternoon
• Ski Dubai: Cost Estimate - AED 250-400 depending on package, Time Spent - Evening

Thursday, September 28: Souk Madinat Jumeirah and Dubai Opera

Visit the charming Souk Madinat Jumeirah in the morning, a traditional Arabian marketplace with shops and restaurants. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride along the scenic waterways. In the afternoon, explore the Dubai Opera, a stunning architectural masterpiece, and catch a world-class performance. In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants in Madinat Jumeirah.

• Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Free entry, Cost Estimate - Varies depending on shopping and dining preferences, Time Spent - Morning
• Dubai Opera: Cost Estimate - Varies depending on performance, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
• Madinat Jumeirah waterfront restaurants: Cost Estimate - Varies depending on restaurant choice, Time Spent - Evening

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For a unique experience, venture out to the Al Fahidi neighborhood and explore the Coffee Museum, showcasing the history and traditions of coffee. Visit the Dubai Butterfly Garden, a tropical paradise with thousands of colorful butterflies. Wrap up your trip with a visit to the Dubai Frame, an iconic architectural landmark offering panoramic views of old and new Dubai.

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