Make this trip your own
Create your own free, personalized itinerary in seconds — then sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version
Viewed by 105 travelers

A Week in Dubai: Exploring the Jewel of the Middle East

Tuesday, December 26: Arrival and Dubai Marina

Welcome to Dubai, a city where modernity meets extravagance. Start your adventure by checking into your hotel and freshening up. In the morning, head to Dubai Marina, a stunning waterfront district. Enjoy a leisurely walk along the promenade, admiring the luxurious yachts and high-rise buildings. In the afternoon, take a relaxing boat ride along the marina, soaking in the stunning skyline views. In the evening, indulge in a delicious dinner at one of the waterfront restaurants, savoring the city's vibrant atmosphere.

  • Dubai Marina Walk: Free, 2 hours
  • Dubai Marina Boat Ride: AED 150-200 per person, 1 hour
  • Dinner at a waterfront restaurant: AED 150-300 per person
Wednesday, December 27: Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall

Get ready for a day of iconic landmarks and world-class shopping. In the morning, visit the incredible Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Take the elevator to the observation deck on the 148th floor for breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai. Afterward, head to Dubai Mall, one of the largest malls globally, for lunch and a shopping spree. In the evening, witness the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show, a synchronized water, light, and music spectacle.

  • Burj Khalifa: AED 149-378 per person, 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Mall: Free entry, cost for shopping varies, 3-4 hours
  • Dubai Fountain show: Free, 30 minutes
Thursday, December 28: Old Dubai and Souks

Discover the enchanting charm of Old Dubai today. Start your morning with a visit to the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood. Explore the narrow alleyways and traditional wind-tower houses in the Al Bastakiya Quarter. Immerse yourself in the city's rich heritage with a visit to Dubai Museum. In the afternoon, wander through the vibrant and aromatic Spice Souk and the glittering Gold Souk. Bargain for spices, souvenirs, and stunning jewelry. Wrap up the day with a traditional dinner at a local Arabian restaurant.

  • Al Fahidi Historic Neighborhood: Free, 2-3 hours
  • Dubai Museum: AED 3-10 per person, 1-2 hours
  • Spice and Gold Souks: Free entry, cost for purchases varies, 2-3 hours
  • Traditional Arabian dinner: AED 100-200 per person
Friday, December 29: Desert Safari and Arabian Night

Embark on an exciting desert safari adventure today. Start your day with dune bashing, an exhilarating 4x4 ride over sand dunes. Experience the thrill of sandboarding and get a henna tattoo as you explore the desert. In the evening, enjoy a traditional Arabian feast under the stars at a desert camp. Take part in cultural activities such as camel riding, belly dancing, and falconry. End the night with an enchanting belly dance performance and the opportunity to smoke shisha.

  • Desert Safari: AED 200-400 per person, 6-7 hours
  • Desert camp dinner and activities: AED 200-300 per person
Saturday, December 30: Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis Aquaventure

Spend your final day indulging in luxury and adventure. Begin with a visit to Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree, and marvel at its luxurious resorts and stunning beachfront properties. Head to Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark for a day of thrilling water slides, lazy river rides, and encounters with marine life. Enjoy lunch at one of the park's restaurants. In the evening, relax at a beachside bar along the Palm Jumeirah shoreline.

  • Palm Jumeirah: Free entry, time spent varies
  • Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark: AED 285-385 per person, 4-6 hours
  • Lunch at the waterpark: AED 50-100 per person
  • Beachside bar: AED 50-150 per person

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring Dubai, don't forget to visit the Dubai Miracle Garden, a mesmerizing floral paradise filled with vibrant displays and unique designs. For a taste of authentic Emirati cuisine, head to the local food stalls at Jumeirah Beach, where you can savor delicious grilled seafood and traditional delicacies. For a unique shopping experience, explore the vibrant markets in the district of Meena Bazaar, where you can find everything from textiles to spices. Finally, if you're a fan of art and culture, consider visiting the Alserkal Avenue, a thriving arts and cultural district hosting galleries, workshops, and exhibitions.

For hotel and flight prices, you can check here.

0
Like this trip? Make your own version.
A free, personalized itinerary in seconds — sign up to save and edit it.
Create my version