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7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Dubai

Friday, January 5: Exploring Old Dubai

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the rich history of Dubai. In the morning, visit the Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the city's past. Afterward, explore the narrow streets of the Al Bastakiya Quarter, filled with traditional houses and art galleries. In the afternoon, take an abra (traditional boat) across Dubai Creek to reach the bustling souks of Deira, where you can haggle for spices, gold, and textiles. As the evening sets in, head to the Dubai Creek Park to enjoy a picnic and take in the beautiful views of the city skyline.

  • Dubai Museum: Approximate cost AED 10 ($2.72), Time spent: 2 hours
  • Al Bastakiya Quarter: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Deira Souks: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Creek Park: Approximate cost AED 5 ($1.36), Time spent: Evening
Saturday, January 6: Modern Dubai Highlights

Explore the modern side of Dubai on the second day of your trip. Start your morning by visiting the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Take an elevator ride to the observation deck for breathtaking views of the city. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Mall, where you can shop, dine, and even visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. In the evening, head to the Dubai Marina Walk to enjoy a leisurely stroll along the waterfront and admire the stunning architecture.

  • Burj Khalifa: Approximate cost AED 149-224 ($40-61) for observation deck access, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Mall: Free entry, Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Dubai Marina Walk: Free, Time spent: Evening
Sunday, January 7: Day Trip to Abu Dhabi

Take a day trip to the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi. Start your day with a visit to the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world. In the afternoon, explore the cultural district of Saadiyat Island, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and other world-class museums. Wrap up your day by enjoying the sunset at the beautiful Corniche Beach.

  • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Saadiyat Island: Free, Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Corniche Beach: Free, Time spent: Evening
Monday, January 8: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend a day full of entertainment and thrills at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Start your morning by visiting Motiongate Dubai, a theme park featuring rides and attractions based on Hollywood movies. In the afternoon, head to Bollywood Parks Dubai, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Indian cinema. Finish off your day by exploring the Riverland Dubai, a waterfront district offering dining and retail options.

  • Motiongate Dubai: Approximate cost AED 245 ($67), Time spent: 4-5 hours
  • Bollywood Parks Dubai: Approximate cost AED 175 ($48), Time spent: 3-4 hours
  • Riverland Dubai: Free entry, Time spent: Evening
Tuesday, January 9: Dubai Desert Safari

Embark on an unforgettable desert adventure on a desert safari. Start your afternoon by dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, experiencing the thrilling ride over sand dunes. Enjoy camel riding, sandboarding, and get a henna tattoo. As the sun sets, feast on a delicious barbecue dinner while watching traditional belly dance performances under the starry night sky.

  • Desert Safari: Approximate cost AED 150-300 ($41-82), Time spent: Afternoon to Evening
Wednesday, January 10: Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis Aquaventure

Visit the iconic man-made island, Palm Jumeirah, and have a day of fun at Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark. Enjoy thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and relax on the private beach. Explore the Lost Chambers Aquarium, home to marine life from around the world. In the evening, take a walk along the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk to enjoy the stunning views of the Dubai skyline.

  • Atlantis Aquaventure: Approximate cost AED 269 ($73), Time spent: 6-7 hours
  • Lost Chambers Aquarium: Approximate cost AED 150 ($41), Time spent: 2-3 hours
  • Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk: Free, Time spent: Evening
Thursday, January 11: Jumeirah Beach and Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Indulge in a relaxing beach day at Jumeirah Beach. Soak up the sun, swim in the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf, and enjoy beachside dining options. In the afternoon, visit the adjacent Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a traditional Arabian marketplace. Explore the winding alleys, shop for souvenirs, and enjoy a traditional Arabic meal with a view of the iconic Burj Al Arab.

  • Jumeirah Beach: Free, Time spent: Morning to Afternoon
  • Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Free entry, Time spent: 2-3 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those on a shoestring budget, be sure to explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Al Quoz and Al Fahidi. Al Quoz is a hub for contemporary art galleries, street art, and trendy cafes. Al Fahidi, the historic heart of Dubai, is filled with traditional wind-tower houses and charming courtyard cafes. These neighborhoods offer a glimpse into the local art and cultural scene.

Additionally, visit the Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz, an arts district with galleries, workshops, and creative spaces. Explore the alternative Dubai Design District (d3), known for its design studios, concept stores, and pop-up exhibitions. These hidden gems provide an authentic taste of Dubai's emerging creative scene.

Throughout your trip, you can check hotel and flight prices on Kayak.

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