7-Day Itinerary in Dubai: Experiencing the Jewel of the Middle East

Saturday, November 25: Exploring Old Dubai

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, which offers fascinating insights into the city's past. Explore the bustling markets of the Dubai Spice Souk and the Gold Souk in the afternoon. As the evening sets in, take an abra (traditional wooden boat) ride across Dubai Creek and dine at one of the local restaurants in the Al Bastakiya area.

  • Dubai Museum: AED 3 (entrance fee), 2 hours
  • Dubai Spice Souk: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Gold Souk: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Abra Ride: AED 1 (per person), 30 minutes
Sunday, November 26: Modern Marvels of Dubai

Experience the futuristic side of Dubai on your second day. Start your morning by visiting 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, one of the largest malls globally, and indulge in world-class shopping and dining. Wrap up your day with a visit to the Dubai Fountain, where you can witness the mesmerizing synchronized water show.

  • Burj Khalifa: AED 169-529 (ticket prices vary), 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Mall: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Dubai Fountain: Free, 30 minutes
Monday, November 27: Desert Safari Adventure

Embark on an exciting desert safari adventure on your third day in Dubai. Start your morning by experiencing a thrilling 4x4 dune bashing ride in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. In the afternoon, immerse yourself in Bedouin culture at a desert camp, where you can ride camels, try sandboarding, and enjoy traditional Arabian entertainment. As the evening approaches, savor a delicious BBQ dinner under the starry desert sky.

  • Dune Bashing: AED 200-300, 2-3 hours
  • Desert Camp Experience: AED 250-400, 4-5 hours
Tuesday, November 28: Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis

Explore the man-made wonder of Palm Jumeirah on your fourth day. Begin your morning by visiting the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk, offering stunning views of the palm-shaped island and the Arabian Gulf. In the afternoon, head to the Atlantis, The Palm, and enjoy a variety of activities, including visiting the Aquaventure Waterpark or taking a stroll through The Lost Chambers Aquarium. End your day with a leisurely dinner at one of the restaurants overlooking the Dubai Marina skyline.

  • Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Atlantis, The Palm: AED 330-795 (ticket prices vary), 4-5 hours
Wednesday, November 29: Cultural Exploration in Al Fahidi Historic District

Delve deeper into Dubai's heritage by spending your fifth day in the Al Fahidi Historic District. Start your morning with a visit to the Coffee Museum, where you can learn about the history and art of coffee brewing. Explore the Al Fahidi neighborhood's narrow streets, wind towers, and art galleries in the afternoon. As the evening sets in, visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding and enjoy a traditional Emirati dinner while learning about local customs and traditions.

  • Coffee Museum: AED 10 (entrance fee), 1-2 hours
  • Al Fahidi Historic District: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding: AED 160 (including dinner), 2-3 hours
Thursday, November 30: Modern Dubai Marina

Spend your sixth day exploring the vibrant Dubai Marina area. Start your morning by taking a relaxing stroll along the marina promenade, lined with luxury yachts and impressive skyscrapers. In the afternoon, visit the Marina Walk, a bustling waterfront with numerous dining options. Indulge in a leisurely lunch at one of the restaurants overlooking the marina. As the evening approaches, take a sunset yacht cruise to enjoy breathtaking views of the city's skyline from the water.

  • Dubai Marina Promenade: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Marina Walk: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Sunset Yacht Cruise: AED 200-400, 2-3 hours
Friday, December 1: Jumeirah Beach and Souk Madinat

End your Dubai adventure with a relaxing day at Jumeirah Beach and a visit to Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Start your morning by soaking up the sun and enjoying the pristine beaches. In the afternoon, explore Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a traditional Arabian market, and indulge in shopping for souvenirs and local handicrafts. Wrap up your day by enjoying a delicious dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants overlooking the Burj Al Arab.

  • Jumeirah Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Dinner at Waterfront Restaurant: AED 150-300, 1-2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those seeking off the beaten path attractions and local favorites, consider exploring the Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz area. This dynamic cultural district is home to contemporary art galleries, design studios, and trendy cafes. Another hidden gem is the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral wonderland with over 50 million flowers arranged in beautiful shapes and structures. Locals also love visiting the traditional neighborhood of Bastakiya, known for its restored wind towers, art galleries, and charming cafes.

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