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6-Day Dubai Itinerary on a Shoestring Budget

Thursday, September 28: Arrival in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! On your first day, settle into your hotel and take some time to relax after your journey. In the morning, explore the historic neighborhood of Bastakiya, known for its traditional Arabian architecture and narrow winding streets. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Museum housed in the Al Fahidi Fort to learn about the city's rich history. In the evening, head to the Dubai Creek area and take an abra (traditional water taxi) ride to enjoy the stunning views while crossing the creek.

  • Bastakiya: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Museum: AED 3 (USD 0.82), 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Creek Abra Ride: AED 1 (USD 0.27), 30 minutes
Friday, September 29: Dubai Marina and JBR

Start your day by visiting the Dubai Marina, a modern waterfront district. In the morning, take a leisurely walk along the marina promenade and enjoy the stunning views of the skyscrapers and luxury yachts. In the afternoon, head to Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) where you can relax on the beautiful sandy beach or explore The Walk, a vibrant outdoor shopping and dining boulevard. End your day by watching the mesmerizing Dubai Marina skyline come alive with its famous evening light show.

  • Dubai Marina: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR): Free, 2-3 hours
  • Evening Light Show at Dubai Marina: Free, 30 minutes
Saturday, September 30: Old Dubai and Souks

Immerse yourself in the charm of Old Dubai today. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Gold Souk, where you can marvel at the dazzling display of gold and precious jewelry. In the afternoon, explore the adjacent Spice Souk, filled with exotic spices, herbs, and fragrances. Take a traditional abra ride across the creek to Deira and visit the Perfume Souk to experience the scents of Arabia. In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant offering authentic Middle Eastern cuisine.

  • Gold Souk: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Spice Souk: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Perfume Souk: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Dinner at a local restaurant: AED 40-60 (USD 11-16), 1-2 hours
Sunday, October 1: Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis

Explore the magnificent man-made island of Palm Jumeirah today. Begin your day with a visit to the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk, a pedestrian pathway offering amazing views of the Palm's iconic crescent and luxury resorts. In the afternoon, head to Atlantis, The Palm, a stunning resort featuring various attractions. Visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium to discover marine life or enjoy the thrilling Aquaventure Waterpark. End your day by watching the mesmerizing sunset from one of the Palm's pristine beaches.

  • Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Lost Chambers Aquarium: AED 120 (USD 33), 2-3 hours
  • Aquaventure Waterpark: AED 299 (USD 82), 4-6 hours
Monday, October 2: Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa

Spend the day exploring the world's largest mall, Dubai Mall, and the iconic Burj Khalifa. Begin your morning by visiting the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, located within the mall, and marvel at the diverse marine life. In the afternoon, indulge in some retail therapy at the vast array of shopping outlets in the mall. In the evening, head to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and ascend to the observation deck on the 124th floor for breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai's skyline.

  • Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: AED 120 (USD 33), 2-3 hours
  • Shopping at Dubai Mall: Variable, 2-4 hours
  • Burj Khalifa Observation Deck: AED 149 (USD 41), 1-2 hours
Tuesday, October 3: Desert Safari and Arabian Nights

Experience the enchanting desert landscapes and traditional Arabian culture on a desert safari. Start your afternoon by embarking on an exhilarating dune bashing adventure in a 4x4 vehicle. Enjoy sandboarding and camel riding, and witness a mesmerizing sunset in the desert. In the evening, head to a desert camp where you can indulge in a delicious barbecue dinner while enjoying live entertainment including belly dancing and traditional music. Immerse yourself in the magical ambiance of an Arabian night.

  • Desert Safari: AED 200-300 (USD 55-82), 6-8 hours
  • Barbecue Dinner and Entertainment at Desert Camp: AED 150-200 (USD 41-55), 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions and places loved by locals, consider visiting the Al Fahidi neighborhood in Bur Dubai. This historic district is home to traditional wind-tower houses, art galleries, and quaint cafés. Explore the narrow alleys and discover hidden treasures such as the XVA Gallery, showcasing contemporary Middle Eastern art, or the Arabian Tea House, a charming café serving traditional Emirati cuisine. Don't miss the chance to visit the nearby Dubai Museum, a fascinating glimpse into the city's past.

You can find great deals on hotels and flights for your Dubai trip on Kayak.

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