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Dubai and Abu Dhabi 7-Day Itinerary

Sunday December 10: Arrive in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Start your trip by visiting the iconic Burj Khalifa in the morning. Soar to the observation deck on the 148th floor for breathtaking views of the city. In the afternoon, explore the Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping malls, and marvel at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. End your day with an evening stroll along Jumeirah Beach, enjoying the warm Arabian Gulf waters.

  • Burj Khalifa: Admission starting from $39, approximately 3 hours
  • Dubai Mall: Free admission, time spent varies
  • Jumeirah Beach: Free admission, time spent varies
Monday December 11: Dubai City Tour

Embark on a full-day city tour of Dubai. In the morning, visit the historic Dubai Creek and take an abra (traditional boat) ride to explore the bustling souks (markets). Afterward, head to the Dubai Museum housed in the Al Fahidi Fort to learn about the city's rich heritage. In the afternoon, experience the luxurious side of Dubai with a visit to Palm Jumeirah, home to the famous Atlantis, The Palm resort. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show outside the Dubai Mall.

  • Dubai Creek and Souks: Free admission, time spent varies
  • Dubai Museum: Admission starting from $3, approximately 2 hours
  • Palm Jumeirah: Free admission, time spent varies
  • Dubai Fountain: Free admission, show every 30 minutes from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM
Tuesday December 12: Desert Safari

Embark on an exhilarating desert safari adventure. In the morning, visit the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve and take part in activities like dune bashing and quad biking. Experience the thrill of sandboarding and ride a camel through the golden dunes. As the sun sets, enjoy a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars, accompanied by live entertainment.

  • Desert Safari: Starting from $50, approximately 6 hours
Wednesday December 13: Abu Dhabi Exploration

Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. In the morning, visit the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the world's largest mosques. Explore the cultural hub of Saadiyat Island, home to the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi (currently under construction). In the afternoon, discover the thrilling Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, an indoor amusement park featuring record-breaking rides. Return to Dubai in the evening.

  • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free admission, approximately 2 hours
  • Saadiyat Island: Free admission, time spent varies
  • Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Starting from $85, approximately 4 hours
Thursday December 14: Modern Dubai

Explore the modern side of Dubai on this day. Start your morning with a visit to the Dubai Marina, an impressive waterfront development. Take a leisurely walk along the Marina Walk and enjoy breakfast at one of the many cafes overlooking the yachts. In the afternoon, head to the Palm Islands and relax on the pristine beaches. As the evening approaches, visit the vibrant Dubai Marina Mall and dine at one of the waterfront restaurants.

  • Dubai Marina: Free admission, time spent varies
  • Palm Islands: Free admission, time spent varies
  • Dubai Marina Mall: Free admission, time spent varies
Friday December 15: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend a fun-filled day at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Start your morning at Motiongate Dubai, a Hollywood-inspired theme park. Experience thrilling rides and attractions based on popular movies. In the afternoon, cool off at Legoland Water Park, where you can enjoy water slides, wave pools, and build-your-own raft adventures. End your day with a visit to Bollywood Parks Dubai, where you can immerse yourself in the vibrant world of Bollywood cinema.

  • Motiongate Dubai: Starting from $69, approximately 6 hours
  • Legoland Water Park: Starting from $42, approximately 4 hours
  • Bollywood Parks Dubai: Starting from $49, approximately 3 hours
Saturday December 16: Dubai Souks and Old Town

Spend your last day exploring the traditional side of Dubai. Start your morning with a visit to the Gold Souk, where you can browse a dazzling array of gold and jewelry. Stroll through the nearby Spice Souk and immerse yourself in the aromas of exotic spices. In the afternoon, wander through the historic neighborhood of Al Bastakiya and visit the Dubai Heritage Village to learn about Emirati culture. End your day with a relaxing sunset dhow cruise along Dubai Creek.

  • Gold Souk: Free admission, time spent varies
  • Spice Souk: Free admission, time spent varies
  • Al Bastakiya: Free admission, time spent varies
  • Dhow Cruise: Starting from $20, approximately 2 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, visit the Alserkal Avenue in Dubai, a vibrant arts district with contemporary galleries, studios, and creative spaces. Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning outdoor garden showcasing over 50 million flowers. In Abu Dhabi, visit the Qasr Al-Hosn, the oldest stone building in the city, to learn about its history and heritage. Don't miss the Sheikh Zayed Bridge, an architectural marvel that spans across the water, offering breathtaking views.

Check out hotel and flight prices here.

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