7-Day Itinerary: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Palm Jumeirah, Sharjah
Friday, December 1: Arrival and Abu Dhabi
Morning: Start your trip by arriving at Abu Dhabi International Airport. Check into your hotel and freshen up. Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece with stunning white marble, intricate designs, and the world's largest hand-knotted carpet.
Afternoon: Head to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a museum that combines art and culture from different civilizations. Explore the exhibits and admire the unique architecture of the museum.
Evening: Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Corniche. Take a walk along the waterfront promenade, enjoy the beautiful views of the city skyline, and indulge in some local cuisine at one of the waterfront restaurants.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Entrance fee - AED 20, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Louvre Abu Dhabi: Entrance fee - AED 63, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Corniche: Free, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to "The Third Place Café" which offers a cozy ambiance and a wide range of breakfast options. Average cost for a meal is about 40 AED per person.
For lunch, check out "Li Beirut" for authentic Lebanese cuisine and stunning views of the Corniche. Average cost for a meal is about 80 AED per person.
For dinner, try "Sambusek" at Rosewood Abu Dhabi for a lavish dining experience with a menu featuring Lebanese mezze and grill dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 250 AED per person.
Saturday, December 2: Dubai City Tour
Morning: Start your day with a visit to the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Enjoy breathtaking views of Dubai from the observation deck on the 148th floor.
Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the cultural heritage of Dubai at the Dubai Museum. Explore the exhibits that showcase the history and traditional way of life in the region.
Evening: Visit the Dubai Marina and take a relaxing evening cruise along the coast. Enjoy dinner on board while admiring the city's skyline illuminated by the lights of skyscrapers.
Dubai Marina Cruise: Price varies, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to The Sum of Us in Dubai. This trendy café offers a range of delicious breakfast options such as avocado toast and eggs Benedict. The average cost for a meal here is about AED 60 per person.
If you're looking for a place to have lunch, try Operation: Falafel in Palm Jumeirah. They serve mouthwatering falafel wraps and shawarmas. The average cost for a meal here is about AED 30 per person.
In the evening, dine at Pierchic in Dubai Marina. This upscale seafood restaurant is located on a pier and offers stunning views of the water. The average cost for a meal here is about AED 400 per person.
Sunday, December 3: Palm Jumeirah
Morning: Explore the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island known for its luxurious resorts and stunning views. Visit the Atlantis, The Palm and spend some time at Aquaventure Waterpark for thrilling water slides and activities.
Afternoon: Relax on the beautiful Palm Jumeirah beach and soak up the sun. Enjoy a leisurely lunch at one of the beachside restaurants.
Evening: Head to The Pointe, a waterfront dining and entertainment destination. Enjoy a delicious dinner while taking in the panoramic views of Atlantis and the Dubai skyline.
Atlantis, The Palm: Price varies, Time spent - 4-5 hours
Start your day with a delicious breakfast at The Palmery, a stylish restaurant offering a sumptuous international buffet. Expect to spend about AED 100 per person.
For lunch, head to Riva Beach Club, a beachfront restaurant with a laid-back vibe. Indulge in fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes for an average cost of AED 150 per person.
Enjoy a memorable dinner at Ibn AlBahr, a seafood restaurant known for its freshly caught seafood and Lebanese cuisine. Plan to spend around AED 200 per person for a delightful dinner experience.
Monday, December 4: Sharjah Cultural Tour
Morning: Visit the Sharjah Heritage Museum, which showcases the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region. Explore the exhibits that provide insights into traditional Arabian lifestyle.
Afternoon: Explore the charming Al-Qasba area, known for its scenic canal and beautiful waterfront. Take a ride on the Eye of the Emirates Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the city.
Evening: Visit the Sharjah Art Museum, home to an impressive collection of contemporary and traditional art from the Arab world. Admire the artworks and learn about the region's artistic heritage.
Sharjah Art Museum: Entrance fee - AED 10, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
For breakfast, head to Arabisc, a charming café serving traditional Emirati breakfast dishes such as balaleet and harees. The average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
For lunch, try out Qasr Al Sultan, a luxurious restaurant offering an authentic Arabian buffet with a wide selection of Middle Eastern delicacies. The average cost for a meal is about 150 AED per person.
For dinner, indulge in a fine dining experience at Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe, known for its exquisite Emirati cuisine. Try their signature dishes like the machboos and luqaimat. The average cost for a meal is about 200 AED per person.
Tuesday, December 5: Abu Dhabi Cultural Exploration
Morning: Explore the cultural district of Saadiyat Island. Visit the Manarat Al Saadiyat, an arts and cultural center that hosts exhibitions and events. Also, visit the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, a planned museum designed by Frank Gehry.
Afternoon: Spend some time at the Sheikh Khalifa Park, a beautiful park with lush greenery, a lake, and various attractions. Enjoy a picnic and relax amidst nature.
Evening: Head to the Yas Marina Circuit and experience the thrill of go-kart racing at the Yas Kartzone. Challenge your friends or family for a fun-filled racing competition.
Manarat Al Saadiyat: Entrance fee - AED 25, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: Opening date yet to be announced
Breakfast: Try the traditional Arabic breakfast at "Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe" in Yas Mall. They offer a wide variety of classic dishes such as falafel, hummus, and freshly baked bread. The average cost for a meal is about 50 AED per person.
Lunch: Enjoy a seafood feast at "Sayad Seafood Restaurant" located in Emirates Palace. Indulge in their delicious seafood platter, featuring a variety of fresh local catches. The average cost for a meal is about 150 AED per person.
Dinner: For a unique dining experience, visit "Li Beirut" in the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers hotel. This restaurant offers a refined Lebanese cuisine with a modern twist. The average cost for a meal is about 250 AED per person.
Wednesday, December 6: Dubai Shopping Extravaganza
Morning: Embark on a shopping spree at the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world. Explore the countless shops, boutiques, and luxury brands.
Afternoon: Visit the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo located within the Dubai Mall. Marvel at the diverse marine life and walk through the tunnel surrounded by sharks and rays.
Evening: Head to the Gold Souk in Deira, known for its glittering gold jewelry. Experience the traditional Arabian market atmosphere and shop for unique pieces.
Dubai Mall: Free, Time spent - 4-5 hours
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo: Entrance fee - AED 155, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Gold Souk: Price varies, Time spent - Evening
Restaurants
Suq Al Badiya is a popular breakfast spot located in Deira. They serve a variety of traditional Arabian dishes with an average cost of about 50 AED per person.
Bur Dubai Al Ferdous is a great lunch option, offering a mix of Middle Eastern and Indian cuisine. The average cost for a meal here is around 60 AED 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 while indulging in a buffet of international cuisine. The average cost per person for dinner is approximately 200 AED.
Thursday, December 7: Departure
Morning: Spend your last few hours in the city by exploring the historic Bastakia Quarter in Dubai. Walk through the narrow lanes, visit art galleries, and admire the traditional Arabian architecture.
Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll along the Dubai Creek and soak in the atmosphere of the bustling waterfront. Enjoy a final meal at a local restaurant and savor the flavors of Arabic cuisine.
Evening: Depart from Dubai International Airport and bid farewell to the UAE, taking with you memories of an unforgettable trip.
Bastakia Quarter: Free, Time spent - 2-3 hours
Dubai Creek: Free, Time spent - 1-2 hours
Restaurants
Food Express: A cozy breakfast spot offering a variety of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. Average cost for a meal is about 60 AED per person.
The Sheikh's Table: A charming lunch restaurant with stunning views of the Dubai skyline. They serve international cuisine with a modern twist. Average cost for a meal is about 150 AED per person.
Saffron Spice: A popular dinner destination known for its authentic Emirati cuisine. Enjoy delicious traditional dishes in a vibrant setting. Average cost for a meal is about 200 AED per person.
Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
For off the beaten path attractions, visit the Al Jahili Fort in Al Ain, a beautifully preserved fortress with exhibits on the region's history. Explore the Heritage Area in Fujairah, where you can see traditional Emirati houses, visit the Fujairah Museum, and discover the rich cultural heritage of the region. Don't miss a visit to the Al Noor Island in Sharjah, a stunning oasis of art, nature, and light installations.
Locals love spending time at Al Qudra Desert near Dubai, where you can experience the tranquility of the desert, go cycling or horse riding, and enjoy a picnic amidst the sand dunes. For a unique culinary experience, try the street food at Al Majaz Waterfront in Sharjah, offering a variety of local dishes and flavors.