Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of Old Dubai. In the morning, visit the Dubai Museum located in Al Fahidi Fort, showcasing the city's heritage. Afterward, take a traditional abra (water taxi) ride across Dubai Creek to the bustling textile souk in Bur Dubai. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant spice souk and gold souk in Deira. As the evening sets in, head to Bastakiya Quarter to admire the traditional Arabian architecture and enjoy dinner at a local restaurant.
Dubai Museum: Entrance fee estimated at 10 AED ($2.70), approximately 1-2 hours
Traditional Abra Ride: 1 AED ($0.27) per person, approximately 10 minutes
Textile Souk: Estimated cost depends on purchases, approximately 1-2 hours
Spice Souk: Estimated cost depends on purchases, approximately 1-2 hours
Gold Souk: Estimated cost depends on purchases, approximately 1-2 hours
Bastakiya Quarter: Free to explore, approximately 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot near Old Dubai is Arabian Tea House. They offer a variety of Middle Eastern breakfast dishes and the average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
For lunch, head to XVA Café in Bastakiya Quarter. They serve delicious vegetarian and vegan options, and the average cost for a meal is about AED 80 per person.
For a memorable dinner experience, dine at Al Fanar Restaurant and Café. They specialize in traditional Emirati cuisine and the average cost for a meal is about AED 120 per person.
Thursday, August 31: Modern Dubai
Experience the futuristic side of Dubai on your second day. In the morning, visit the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and enjoy breathtaking views from its observation deck. In the afternoon, explore the Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping malls, and indulge in retail therapy. As the evening sets in, head to the Dubai Marina area for a relaxing stroll along the waterfront promenade and dine at one of the many restaurants overlooking the marina.
Burj Khalifa: Entrance fee starts at 149 AED ($40.50) for non-prime hours, approximately 2-3 hours
Dubai Mall: Free to explore, shopping costs vary, approximately 2-3 hours
Dubai Marina: Free to explore, dinner costs vary, approximately 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious Mediterranean breakfast at Urban Bistro, located in the Dubai Marina area. Enjoy dishes like avocado toast and homemade granola for an average cost of about AED 60 per person.
For a tasty lunch option, head to the Dubai Mall and visit Social House. This Asian fusion restaurant offers a wide range of dishes including sushi, noodles, and bento boxes, with an average cost of around AED 100 per person.
End your day with a fine dining experience at Pierchic, a seafood restaurant situated on a pier in the Dubai Marina. Indulge in freshly caught seafood delicacies while enjoying stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. The average cost for a meal at Pierchic is about AED 400 per person.
Friday, September 1: Desert Safari Adventure
Embark on an exhilarating desert safari experience for a day filled with adventure. In the morning, go dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, experiencing the thrill of driving over sand dunes. In the afternoon, try sandboarding and ride a camel through the desert. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Arabian BBQ dinner under the stars while being entertained by belly dancers and traditional music.
Desert Safari: Prices vary, starting from 150 AED ($40.80) per person, approximately 6-7 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Sum of Us. This trendy cafe offers a variety of options including avocado toast and fluffy pancakes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to The Maine Oyster Bar & Grill. Indulge in fresh seafood dishes like oysters and lobster rolls. Average cost for a meal is about AED 150 per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at At.mosphere Restaurant located on the 122nd floor of Burj Khalifa. Enjoy fine dining with breathtaking views of the city. Average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.
Saturday, September 2: Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah
Explore the glamorous side of Dubai by spending the day in Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. In the morning, take a yacht tour around the marina, enjoying the stunning skyline and luxurious yachts. In the afternoon, visit the iconic Atlantis, The Palm hotel and enjoy the Aquaventure Waterpark for thrilling water slides and encounters with marine life. As the evening sets in, dine at one of the fine restaurants on The Palm, offering breathtaking views of the city.
Dubai Marina Yacht Tour: Prices vary, starting from 200 AED ($54.40) per person, approximately 2-3 hours
Aquaventure Waterpark: Entrance fee starts at 295 AED ($80.20) per person, approximately 4-5 hours
Dining at Palm Jumeirah: Dinner costs vary, approximately 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A great breakfast spot in Dubai Marina is Eggspectation, which offers a variety of egg dishes, pancakes, and breakfast sandwiches. The average cost for a meal is about 80 AED per person.
For lunch, head to The Cheesecake Factory located at The Dubai Mall. They offer a wide range of dishes including salads, sandwiches, pastas, and of course, delicious cheesecakes. The average cost for a meal is about 120 AED per person.
Enjoy a memorable dinner at Nobu, located inside Atlantis, The Palm. This high-end Japanese restaurant offers exquisite sushi and sashimi, as well as other gourmet dishes. The average cost for a meal is about 400 AED per person.
Sunday, September 3: Cultural Immersion in Al Fahidi District
Immerse yourself in the arts and culture scene of Dubai by spending the day exploring Al Fahidi Historic District. In the morning, visit the Alserkal Avenue, a vibrant arts and culture hub with galleries, cafes, and creative spaces. In the afternoon, explore the Coffee Museum, showcasing the history and culture of coffee, and visit the nearby Dubai Coffee Museum. As the evening sets in, enjoy a traditional Emirati dinner at a local restaurant, savoring authentic flavors.
Alserkal Avenue: Free to explore, approximately 2-3 hours
Coffee Museum: Entrance fee estimated at 10 AED ($2.70), approximately 1-2 hours
Emirati Dinner: Dinner costs vary, approximately 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Arabian Tea House. This charming cafe offers traditional Emirati dishes and international breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
For lunch, head to Bastakiah Nights, a local restaurant serving authentic Emirati cuisine. Enjoy dishes like Machboos and Lamb Harees in a cozy atmosphere. The average cost for a meal is about 80 AED per person.
End your day with a delightful dinner at Local Bites Café. This restaurant specializes in Emirati fusion cuisine, offering a blend of traditional flavors with a modern twist. The average cost for a meal is about 120 AED per person.
Monday, September 4: Palm Islands and The World Islands
Discover the architectural wonders of Dubai by visiting Palm Jumeirah and The World Islands. In the morning, explore the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk, offering scenic views of the palm-shaped island. In the afternoon, take a boat tour around The World Islands, an artificial archipelago resembling a map of the world. As the evening sets in, enjoy dinner at one of the luxurious restaurants on Palm Jumeirah, overlooking the Arabian Gulf.
Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk: Free to explore, approximately 2-3 hours
The World Islands Boat Tour: Prices vary, starting from 200 AED ($54.40) per person, approximately 2-3 hours
Dining at Palm Jumeirah: Dinner costs vary, approximately 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Palmery, a trendy restaurant offering a variety of international dishes. Average cost for a meal is about $25 per person.
For lunch, head to Beach House Restaurant, which offers a relaxing beachfront dining experience with a menu of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisine. Average cost for a meal is about $40 per person.
Indulge in a luxurious dinner at Nobu, a renowned Japanese restaurant located at the Atlantis, The Palm. Enjoy exquisite sushi and sashimi dishes while overlooking stunning views of the Dubai skyline. Average cost for a meal is about $80 per person.
Tuesday, September 5: Shopping Extravaganza
Indulge in a day of retail therapy as you explore the vibrant shopping scene in Dubai. In the morning, visit the traditional markets of Meena Bazaar and Karama, known for their affordable clothing, accessories, and souvenirs. In the afternoon, head to the Mall of the Emirates and discover an array of international brands and luxury boutiques. As the evening sets in, explore the Dubai Gold and Diamond Park for exquisite jewelry and dine at one of the mall's restaurants.
Meena Bazaar: Estimated cost depends on purchases, approximately 2-3 hours
Karama Market: Estimated cost depends on purchases, approximately 2-3 hours
Mall of the Emirates: Free to explore, shopping costs vary, approximately 2-3 hours
Dubai Gold and Diamond Park: Estimated cost depends on purchases, approximately 2-3 hours
Dining at Mall of the Emirates: Dinner costs vary, approximately 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A breakfast restaurant option near Meena Bazaar is The Breakfast Club. This cozy cafe serves a variety of morning favorites such as eggs, pancakes, and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about AED 40 per person.
For lunch, head to Karama and try AB's Absolute Barbecues. This casual dining restaurant offers a buffet-style spread of Indian barbecue dishes and a live grilling experience. Average cost for a meal is about AED 60 per person.
For a delightful dinner experience at Mall of the Emirates, visit Olea. This Mediterranean restaurant offers a menu inspired by various Mediterranean cuisines, with a focus on fresh ingredients and flavors. Average cost for a meal is about AED 120 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For those seeking off the beaten path attractions and local favorites, be sure to visit Al Fahidi Neighbourhood, also known as Al Bastakiya, where you can explore narrow lanes lined with art galleries, cafes, and boutique stores. Another hidden gem is the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral paradise with intricate displays and themed gardens. Locals love heading to Jumeirah Beach Park for a relaxing day by the beach, and to La Mer, a beachfront area with trendy shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Before planning your trip, make sure to check hotel and flight prices to find the best deals and accommodations in Dubai.