Welcome to UAE! Begin your honeymoon adventure by exploring the iconic city of Dubai. Start the morning with a visit to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, and enjoy breathtaking views from the observation deck. In the afternoon, indulge in some retail therapy at the Dubai Mall, home to numerous luxury brands and entertainment options. As the evening approaches, take a romantic dhow cruise along Dubai Creek, enjoying a delicious dinner and mesmerizing cityscape views.
Dubai Mall: Cost Estimate - Varies depending on shopping, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
Dhow Cruise: Cost Estimate - AED 200-300 ($55-80) per person, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast experience, head to Baker & Spice in Souk Al Bahar. Enjoy freshly baked pastries and organic breakfast options with an average cost of about $15 per person.
Savor a delightful lunch at Zuma Dubai in DIFC, known for its contemporary Japanese cuisine. Expect to spend around $50 per person for a flavorful meal.
Indulge in a romantic dinner at Pierchic, a stunning seafood restaurant situated on a pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Enjoy an exquisite dining experience with an average cost of about $150 per person.
Wednesday December 20: Abu Dhabi Exploration
Embark on a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital city of UAE, known for its magnificent architecture and cultural heritage. Start the morning with a visit to the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a symbol of Islamic art and architecture. In the afternoon, explore the stunning Louvre Abu Dhabi, showcasing a collection of global art masterpieces. As the evening sets in, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Corniche waterfront, taking in the beautiful views of the city skyline.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Louvre Abu Dhabi: Cost Estimate - AED 63 ($17), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Corniche: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
A popular breakfast spot in Abu Dhabi is Leopold's of London, known for its delicious pastries and freshly brewed coffee. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about 50 AED per person.
For lunch, head to Li Beirut, a Lebanese restaurant offering a variety of Middle Eastern dishes. Enjoy their flavorful mezze and grilled specialties. Average cost for a lunch meal is about 100 AED per person.
Indulge in a fine dining experience at Hakkasan, an upscale Chinese restaurant known for its modern Cantonese cuisine. Savor their signature dishes and sophisticated ambiance. Average cost for a dinner meal is about 350 AED per person.
Thursday December 21: Desert Safari Adventure
Experience the thrill of the desert with a desert safari tour. Start the morning with a visit to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, where you can witness the stunning sand dunes and learn about the local flora and fauna. In the afternoon, enjoy thrilling activities like dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding. As the evening approaches, immerse yourself in Arabian culture with a traditional Bedouin-style dinner and entertainment under the starry desert sky.
Desert Safari Tour: Cost Estimate - AED 250-350 ($70-95) per person, Time Spent - 6-7 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Sum of Us, a trendy café in Dubai known for its delicious coffee, freshly baked pastries, and hearty breakfast options. The average cost for a meal is about AED 75 per person.
For lunch, visit Zuma Dubai, a contemporary Japanese restaurant located in the heart of Dubai's financial district. Indulge in their exquisite sushi, sashimi, and robata grill dishes. The average cost for a meal is about AED 250 per person.
For dinner, dine at Pierchic, an award-winning seafood restaurant situated at the end of a pier in Dubai. Enjoy breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf while savoring their delectable seafood specialties. The average cost for a meal is about AED 500 per person.
Friday December 22: Sharjah Cultural Exploration
Discover the cultural heritage of UAE by visiting the neighboring city of Sharjah. Start the morning by exploring the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, which showcases Islamic art, artifacts, and manuscripts. In the afternoon, visit the Sharjah Heritage Area, a charming district filled with traditional houses, museums, and the iconic Al Hisn Fort. As the evening sets in, stroll through the vibrant Souq Al Jubail, known for its fresh produce, handicrafts, and local delicacies.
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: Cost Estimate - AED 10 ($3), Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Souq Al Jubail: Cost Estimate - Varies depending on shopping, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For a delicious breakfast, head to The Barn Cafe located in Sharjah. They offer a variety of breakfast options such as pancakes, eggs benedict, and freshly brewed coffee. Prices range from AED 30 to AED 60 per person.
For lunch, try Siraj Restaurant in Sharjah. They offer traditional Emirati cuisine with a modern twist. Some popular dishes include machbous, harees, and luqaimat. Prices range from AED 50 to AED 100 per person.
For a romantic dinner, visit Salt Bae Restaurant in Dubai. This upscale restaurant offers a unique dining experience with their expertly prepared steaks and luxurious ambiance. Prices range from AED 200 to AED 500 per person.
Saturday December 23: Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah
Explore the modern side of Dubai by visiting Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. Start the morning with a relaxing walk along the Dubai Marina promenade, admiring the luxurious yachts and impressive skyscrapers. In the afternoon, head to Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree, and indulge in some beach time or visit The Lost Chambers Aquarium at Atlantis, The Palm. As the evening approaches, enjoy a romantic dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium: Cost Estimate - AED 105 ($28), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Enjoy a delicious international breakfast buffet at A La Turca restaurant located in Rixos The Palm Dubai. Indulge in a wide selection of dishes including Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and Turkish cuisines. Average cost for a meal is about AED 150 per person.
Treat yourself to a sumptuous lunch at The Beach House, situated on the beachfront of Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort. Savor Mediterranean-inspired dishes while enjoying stunning views of the Palm Jumeirah. Average cost for a meal is about AED 200 per person.
For a romantic dinner, head to Pierchic, a stunning seafood restaurant located at the end of a pier in Al Qasr Hotel. Delight in fresh seafood delicacies while overlooking the shimmering waters of the Arabian Gulf. Average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.
Sunday December 24: Dubai Old Town and Souks
Uncover the historical charm of Dubai by exploring the Old Town and traditional souks. Start the morning with a visit to the Dubai Museum, housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, to learn about the city's history. In the afternoon, wander through the bustling streets of the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, where you can find exquisite jewelry, spices, and traditional Arabian goods. As the evening sets in, take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the Textile Souk.
Gold Souk: Cost Estimate - Varies depending on shopping, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Spice Souk: Cost Estimate - Varies depending on shopping, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Textile Souk: Cost Estimate - Varies depending on shopping, Time Spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, try Arabian Tea House Café located in the heart of Al Fahidi Historic District. This charming café offers a traditional Arabian breakfast menu with dishes like falafel, hummus, and freshly baked Arabic bread. The average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
For lunch, visit Bayt Al Wakeel Restaurant situated near the Dubai Creek. This restaurant offers a wide range of Emirati and Arabic dishes, along with stunning views of the waterfront. Don't miss their delicious seafood options. The average cost for a meal is about AED 100 per person.
For dinner, head to Al Dawaar Revolving Restaurant located on the 25th floor of Hyatt Regency Dubai. Enjoy panoramic views of the city skyline while savoring a sumptuous international buffet. The average cost for a meal is about AED 250 per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For a serene escape, head to the Hatta Pools located in the Hajar Mountains. These natural rock pools offer a picturesque setting for a romantic picnic or dip in the crystal-clear waters. Another off the beaten path gem is the Al Noor Island in Sharjah, a beautiful lush island with stunning gardens, interactive art installations, and a butterfly house. Both these hidden gems provide unique experiences away from the bustling city and are perfect for couples looking for tranquility on their honeymoon.