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7-Day Budget Itinerary for Dubai

Friday, December 15: Arrival and Dubai Marina

Start your trip by arriving in Dubai and checking into a budget-friendly hotel. Spend the morning exploring the Dubai Marina, a waterfront development with stunning skyscrapers, promenades, and a bustling atmosphere. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride along the marina and enjoy the scenic views. In the evening, visit The Walk at JBR, a vibrant outdoor shopping and dining destination.

  • Dubai Marina: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 3-4 hours
  • The Walk at JBR: Cost Estimate - Free (optional shopping and dining expenses), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Saturday, December 16: Old Dubai and Souks

Immerse yourself in the history and traditional charm of Old Dubai. Start your morning with a visit to Dubai Creek, where you can take an abra (traditional boat) ride to explore the area. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant Gold and Spice Souks, where you can find unique souvenirs and traditional spices. End the day with a visit to the cultural neighborhood of Al Fahidi, home to the Dubai Museum.

  • Dubai Creek: Cost Estimate - AED 1 for abra ride, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Gold and Spice Souks: Cost Estimate - Free (optional shopping expenses), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Al Fahidi Neighborhood and Dubai Museum: Cost Estimate - AED 3 for museum entry, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Sunday, December 17: Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa

Spend the day at the iconic Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest shopping malls. Start your morning by exploring the mall's vast array of shops and boutiques. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, located within the mall. End the day with a visit to the observation deck of Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, for breathtaking views of the city.

  • Dubai Mall: Cost Estimate - Free (optional shopping expenses), Time Spent - 4-6 hours
  • Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Cost Estimate - AED 120, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Burj Khalifa: Cost Estimate - AED 149 for observation deck (advance online booking recommended), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Monday, December 18: Desert Safari and BBQ Dinner

Experience the thrill of a desert safari adventure. Start your afternoon with a thrilling dune bashing session in a 4x4 vehicle. Enjoy camel riding, sandboarding, and take memorable photos in the desert. As the sun sets, indulge in a delicious BBQ dinner while watching traditional performances. Return to your hotel in the evening.

  • Desert Safari: Cost Estimate - AED 150-200 (varies by provider), Time Spent - 6-7 hours
Tuesday, December 19: Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis

Explore the man-made island of Palm Jumeirah and visit the famous Atlantis, The Palm resort. Start your morning with a leisurely walk along the Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk, offering stunning views of the Dubai skyline. In the afternoon, visit Atlantis, where you can explore the Lost Chambers Aquarium and enjoy the Aquaventure Waterpark.

  • Palm Jumeirah Boardwalk: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 2-3 hours
  • Atlantis, The Palm: Cost Estimate - AED 110 for Lost Chambers Aquarium, AED 289 for Aquaventure Waterpark, Time Spent - 4-6 hours
Wednesday, December 20: Jumeirah Beach and Souk Madinat

Spend a day relaxing at Jumeirah Beach and exploring the charming Souk Madinat Jumeirah. Start your morning by enjoying the sun, sand, and azure waters of Jumeirah Beach. In the afternoon, visit Souk Madinat, a traditional Arabian marketplace, and indulge in local cuisine at one of the waterfront restaurants.

  • Jumeirah Beach: Cost Estimate - Free, Time Spent - 4-6 hours
  • Souk Madinat: Cost Estimate - Free (optional shopping and dining expenses), Time Spent - 2-3 hours
Thursday, December 21: Global Village

End your trip by visiting the multicultural extravaganza of Global Village. Spend the evening exploring pavilions from different countries, enjoying live performances, and sampling diverse cuisines. Shop for unique souvenirs and experience the vibrant atmosphere of this annual event.

  • Global Village: Cost Estimate - AED 15 entry fee, Time Spent - 4-6 hours

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For off the beaten path attractions, consider visiting the Alserkal Avenue, a thriving arts district with galleries, cafes, and unique exhibitions. Another local favorite is Kite Beach, where you can relax, enjoy water sports, and witness the stunning skyline of Dubai. Both these options are budget-friendly and offer a different perspective of the city.

Check here for hotel and flight prices.

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