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Dubai and Abu Dhabi 6-day Itinerary

Friday, December 1: Arrival in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Begin your trip by exploring the city's iconic landmarks. In the morning, visit the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from the observation deck. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Mall, a shopper's paradise with over 1,200 stores, and don't miss the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. In the evening, experience the traditional ambiance of the Dubai Creek area and take an abra (water taxi) ride.

  • Burj Khalifa: Tickets from $25, approximately 2 hours
  • Dubai Mall & Dubai Aquarium: Free entry, time spent varies
  • Dubai Creek: Abra ride from $1, around 1 hour
Saturday, December 2: Old Dubai Exploration

Take a step back in time and explore the historic side of Dubai. In the morning, visit the Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort, which showcases the city's rich heritage. Afterward, wander through the vibrant streets of the Al Bastakiya Quarter, filled with traditional Arabian architecture and charming art galleries. In the afternoon, take a traditional Arabian boat called a dhow for a cruise along Dubai Creek. In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner at a local restaurant in the Souk Madinat Jumeirah.

  • Dubai Museum: Admission from $5, approximately 1 hour
  • Al Bastakiya Quarter: Free entry, time spent varies
  • Dhow Cruise: From $20, around 2-3 hours
  • Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Cost depends on the restaurant, around 2 hours
Sunday, December 3: Day Trip to Abu Dhabi

Today, venture outside of Dubai and explore the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi. In the morning, visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a stunning architectural masterpiece. Marvel at its intricate design and take in the tranquil atmosphere. Afterward, head to Yas Island, where you can visit the thrilling Ferrari World theme park and experience heart-pounding rides. In the evening, stroll along the Corniche waterfront promenade and enjoy the beautiful views of the city skyline.

  • Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free entry, approximately 1-2 hours
  • Ferrari World: Tickets from $70, time spent varies
  • Corniche: Free entry, time spent varies
Monday, December 4: Modern Dubai Highlights

Discover the modern side of Dubai and its impressive architectural wonders. In the morning, visit the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree. Explore the luxurious Atlantis, The Palm resort and enjoy its various attractions, such as Aquaventure Waterpark and The Lost Chambers Aquarium. In the afternoon, visit the Dubai Marina, a bustling waterfront district known for its skyscrapers and yacht cruises. In the evening, take a desert safari and experience the thrill of dune bashing, camel riding, and a traditional dinner under the stars.

  • Palm Jumeirah: Free entry, time spent varies
  • Atlantis, The Palm: Cost depends on activities, around 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Marina: Free entry, time spent varies
  • Desert Safari: From $50, approximately 6 hours
Tuesday, December 5: Dubai Experience

Today, delve deeper into Dubai's diverse offerings. In the morning, visit the Dubai Miracle Garden, the world's largest natural flower garden, filled with stunning floral displays. Take your time to stroll through the colorful pathways and admire the unique designs. In the afternoon, explore the bustling streets of the traditional Gold Souk and Spice Souk, where you can find an array of precious metals and aromatic spices. In the evening, enjoy a dinner cruise along Dubai Marina and admire the illuminated city skyline.

  • Dubai Miracle Garden: Tickets from $10, around 2 hours
  • Gold Souk & Spice Souk: Free entry, time spent varies
  • Dinner Cruise: From $60, approximately 2-3 hours
Wednesday, December 6: Departure from Dubai

It's time to say goodbye to Dubai! Before leaving, make sure to visit the Dubai Frame, a gigantic frame-shaped structure offering panoramic views of old and new Dubai. Take an elevator to the top and witness the contrasting cityscapes. In the afternoon, explore the vibrant neighborhood of Dubai Marina one last time and indulge in some last-minute shopping. Finally, head to the airport for your departure from Dubai with unforgettable memories of the UAE.

  • Dubai Frame: Tickets from $15, around 1-2 hours
  • Dubai Marina: Free entry, time spent varies
  • Shopping: Cost varies depending on purchases, time spent varies

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

When exploring Dubai and Abu Dhabi, consider visiting the Al Fahidi Historic District in Dubai, also known as Bastakiya, where you can wander through its historic narrow lanes and visit art galleries. In Abu Dhabi, make sure to explore the beautiful mangrove forests by taking a kayak tour or a boardwalk stroll. For a taste of local cuisine, try some Emirati dishes at local restaurants, such as machboos (spiced rice dish) or luqaimat (Arabic sweet dumplings). Don't miss the chance to experience the traditional Arabic hospitality and immerse yourself in the local culture.

For hotel and flight prices, click here.

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