Discover the wonders of Dubai during a 7-day journey filled with excitement and luxury. From magnificent skyscrapers to cultural landmarks and desert adventures, this itinerary will take you on an unforgettable exploration of one of the world's most vibrant cities.
Sunday, October 1: Arrival and Marina Evening
Begin your Dubai adventure by touching down at Dubai International Airport and settling into your hotel. In the morning, take a leisurely stroll along Dubai Marina, admiring the stunning yachts and impressive skyline. For an afternoon filled with thrills, head to Skydive Dubai for a tandem skydiving experience. In the evening, indulge in a luxurious dinner cruise along Dubai Marina, enjoying delicious cuisine and enchanting views of the city's illuminated landmarks.
Dubai Marina: Free, 2-3 hours
Skydive Dubai: AED 1999 per person, 3-4 hours
Dinner Cruise: AED 300-500 per person, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
Baker & Spice: Enjoy a delicious breakfast at Baker & Spice, located near Dubai Marina. This cozy cafe offers freshly baked pastries and a variety of breakfast dishes. Average cost for a meal is about AED 45 per person.
Zuma: For a satisfying lunch, head to Zuma, a contemporary Japanese restaurant situated in Dubai International Financial Centre. Indulge in their signature dishes like sushi and robata grilled skewers. Average cost for a meal is about AED 250 per person.
Pierchic: Treat yourself to a memorable dinner at Pierchic, a fine dining seafood restaurant nestled at the end of a pier in the Arabian Gulf. Enjoy exquisite seafood dishes while taking in breathtaking views of the Dubai skyline. Average cost for a meal is about AED 700 per person.
Monday, October 2: Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall
Start your day by visiting the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Take an elevator ride to the observation deck on the 148th floor for breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai. Afterward, explore the Dubai Mall, a shopper's paradise with over 1,200 stores, an aquarium, and an indoor ice rink. In the evening, catch the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show, a stunning spectacle of water, music, and light.
Burj Khalifa: AED 149-378 per person, 2-3 hours
Dubai Mall: Free (shopping costs vary), 3-4 hours
Dubai Fountain Show: Free, 30 minutes
Restaurants
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at Shakespeare and Co. Located in the Dubai Mall, this charming cafe offers a wide range of breakfast options including eggs benedict, pancakes, and freshly baked pastries. Average cost for a breakfast meal is about AED 50 per person.
For a tasty and satisfying lunch, head to Social House in the Dubai Mall. This trendy restaurant serves a variety of Asian and international dishes, such as sushi, noodles, and burgers. Average cost for a lunch meal is about AED 100 per person.
Indulge in a delightful dinner at Thiptara, a Thai restaurant located in The Palace Downtown. Enjoy traditional Thai flavors while dining on a terrace overlooking the stunning Dubai Fountain. Average cost for a dinner meal is about AED 250 per person.
Tuesday, October 3: Old Dubai and Desert Safari
Embark on a cultural journey in Old Dubai. Start your morning with a visit to the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood and explore the Dubai Museum to learn about the city's heritage. Afterward, take an abra (traditional boat) ride across Dubai Creek to the vibrant souks of Deira, where you can haggle for spices, gold, and textiles. In the evening, venture into the desert for an exhilarating desert safari experience, including dune bashing, camel riding, and a traditional Arabian dinner under the stars.
Al Fahidi Neighborhood and Dubai Museum: AED 3-10 per person, 2-3 hours
Abra Ride: AED 1-2 per person, 20-30 minutes
Deira Souks: Free, 2-3 hours
Desert Safari: AED 150-300 per person, 6-7 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Arabian Tea House in Al Fahidi neighborhood for a traditional Emirati breakfast. Enjoy dishes like balaleet (sweet vermicelli with saffron) and chebab (Emirati pancakes) while soaking in the historic atmosphere. Average cost for a meal is about 40 AED per person.
For lunch, visit Spice Souk Restaurant in Deira, known for its authentic Middle Eastern cuisine. Feast on flavorful kebabs, falafel, hummus, and freshly baked bread. Average cost for a meal is about 60 AED per person.
For dinner, indulge in a culinary experience at Al Hadheerah Restaurant in Bab Al Shams Desert Resort. Delight in a lavish buffet spread of Arabic and international dishes, along with live cooking stations and traditional entertainment. Average cost for a meal is about 250 AED per person.
Wednesday, October 4: Palm Jumeirah and Aquaventure Waterpark
Indulge in a day of relaxation and adventure on Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree. Enjoy the morning at Atlantis, The Palm, where you can explore the Lost Chambers Aquarium and have close encounters with marine life. In the afternoon, head to Aquaventure Waterpark for thrilling water slides and lazy river rides. Unwind in the evening with a visit to the luxurious Palm Jumeirah beach clubs, savoring the stunning sunset views.
Lost Chambers Aquarium: AED 135-235 per person, 2-3 hours
Aquaventure Waterpark: AED 250-350 per person, 4-5 hours
Thursday, October 5: Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach
Return to Dubai Marina to explore its vibrant atmosphere further. In the morning, take a yacht cruise along the marina, enjoying the refreshing sea breeze and picturesque views. Afterward, relax at Jumeirah Beach, a pristine stretch of sand with crystal-clear waters. In the evening, dine at one of the waterfront restaurants at The Walk, a bustling promenade filled with shops, cafes, and entertainment.
Yacht Cruise: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Jumeirah Beach: Free, 2-3 hours
The Walk: Prices vary, 2-3 hours
Restaurants
A great breakfast spot in Dubai Marina is The Scene by Simon Rimmer, offering a delicious menu with options like eggs Benedict and avocado toast. Average cost for a meal is about $15 per person.
For a tasty lunch, head to Pots, Pans & Boards along The Walk. They serve up a variety of dishes including juicy burgers and fresh salads. Average cost for a meal is about $20 per person.
For dinner, Pierchic is a top-notch seafood restaurant located right on Jumeirah Beach. Indulge in their exquisite seafood dishes while enjoying stunning views of the Arabian Gulf. Average cost for a meal is about $50 per person.
Friday, October 6: Dubai Parks and Resorts
Immerse yourself in the world of entertainment at Dubai Parks and Resorts. Spend the day exploring the thrilling rides and attractions of Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and Legoland Dubai. Indulge in delectable treats at Riverland Dubai, a lively dining and retail destination. In the evening, catch a live show or concert at the Dubai Opera, a stunning architectural masterpiece.
Dubai Parks and Resorts: AED 245-345 per person, full day
Riverland Dubai: Free (attractions' costs vary), 2-3 hours
Dubai Opera: Ticket prices vary, show duration varies
Restaurants
Start your day at The Breakfast Club, a cozy restaurant located near Dubai Parks and Resorts. Enjoy their delicious breakfast options, such as fluffy pancakes and perfectly brewed coffee. Average cost for a meal is about AED 50 per person.
For a satisfying lunch, head to Ravi Restaurant. This local gem offers a variety of Pakistani and Indian dishes, including mouthwatering curries and aromatic biryanis. Average cost for a meal is about AED 30 per person.
Indulge in a memorable dinner at Pierchic, an exquisite seafood restaurant situated on a pier overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Experience the freshest ingredients and culinary expertise in every dish. Average cost for a meal is about AED 400 per person.
Saturday, October 7: Miracle Garden and Global Village
Explore the natural beauty and cultural diversity of Dubai on your last day. Start by visiting the Miracle Garden, a stunning floral paradise showcasing intricate flower installations. In the evening, make your way to Global Village, a multicultural festival park offering a vibrant atmosphere, live performances, and a wide array of international cuisines and shopping experiences.
Miracle Garden: AED 55-110 per person, 2-3 hours
Global Village: Entry ticket AED 15, additional costs for attractions and food, 4-5 hours
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
While exploring Dubai, be sure to venture off the beaten path and discover some hidden gems loved by locals. Head to Al Quoz, an artsy neighborhood filled with galleries, hip cafes, and street art. Explore the vibrant neighborhood of Satwa, known for its affordable shopping and delicious street food. For a tranquil escape, visit the Al Qudra Lakes, a pristine desert oasis where you can enjoy picnics and spot wildlife. These local favorites offer unique experiences beyond the city's renowned landmarks.