Seven Days in Dubai: A Shoestring Budget Itinerary (November 2023)

1. Day 1: Dubai Mall
   20 minutes (9.4 km) from Dubai International Airport

   Morning: Visit Dubai Mall Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, home to over 300 species of marine animals. Afternoon: Explore the mall and its wide variety of shops. Evening: Watch the spectacular Dubai Fountain show.

2. Day 2: Dubai Miracle Garden
   20 minutes (13.7 km) from Dubai Mall

   Morning: Wander through the world's largest flower garden, housing more than 45 million blooming flowers. Afternoon: Visit the Butterfly Garden located within the Miracle Garden. Evening: Head to the nearby Global Village, offering food, entertainment, and shopping.

3. Day 3: Dubai Museum and Al Fahidi Historical District
   25 minutes (11.4 km) from Dubai Miracle Garden

   Morning: Discover the history of Dubai at the Dubai Museum, housed in the oldest existing building in Dubai. Afternoon: Stroll around the Al Fahidi Historical District, featuring traditional Arabian-style buildings and wind towers. Evening: Take an abra (water taxi) ride across Dubai Creek.

4. Day 4: Dubai Parks and Resorts
   35 minutes (43.1 km) from Dubai Museum

   Morning: Enjoy the thrilling rides at Motiongate Dubai, featuring attractions based on popular Hollywood movies. Afternoon: Visit Bollywood Parks Dubai, showcasing the vibrant culture of India's film industry. Evening: Head to Riverland Dubai for dinner and shopping.

5. Day 5: Jumeirah Beach and Dubai Marina
   35 minutes (40.1 km) from Dubai Parks and Resorts

   Morning: Soak up the sun at Jumeirah Beach, one of Dubai's most popular beaches. Afternoon: Take a stroll around Dubai Marina, home to luxury yachts and numerous waterfront restaurants. Evening: Visit The Walk at JBR for shopping and entertainment.

6. Day 6: Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall
   25 minutes (17.3 km) from Jumeirah Beach

   Morning: Head to the top of the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, for stunning views of Dubai. Afternoon: Return to Dubai Mall for more shopping and dining. Evening: Watch the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show.

7. Day 7: Dubai Frame and Zabeel Park
   30 minutes (11.8 km) from Burj Khalifa

   Morning: Experience a breathtaking view of old and new Dubai from the Dubai Frame. Afternoon: Head to Zabeel Park for a relaxing picnic or barbecue with friends and family. Evening: Visit the iconic Dubai Miracle Garden for a night-time experience.

Recommendations

If you have time, consider visiting the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial archipelago that houses luxury hotels and stunning views. For side trips, visit the nearby emirates of Abu Dhabi or Sharjah. To maximize your fun, purchase a Dubai Pass, which allows discounted access to over 35 attractions. Don't forget to try some authentic Emirati food, such as machboos or luqaimat.

Time and Costs Estimates

• Dubai Mall Aquarium and Underwater Zoo (3 hours, AED 120)
• Dubai Fountain Show (30 minutes, free)
• Dubai Miracle Garden (2 hours, AED 55)
• Butterfly Garden (1 hour, AED 50)
• Global Village (3 hours, AED 15 entrance fee)
• Dubai Museum (2 hours, AED 3)
• Al Fahidi Historical District (2 hours, free)
• Motiongate Dubai (5 hours, AED 245)
• Bollywood Parks Dubai (4 hours, AED 175)
• Riverland Dubai (2 hours, free)
• Jumeirah Beach (4 hours, free)
• Dubai Marina (3 hours, free)
• The Walk at JBR (2 hours, free)
• Burj Khalifa (3 hours, AED 154)
• Dubai Frame (2 hours, AED 50)
• Zabeel Park (2 hours, free)
• Dubai Miracle Garden at night (2 hours, AED 65)
• Total Estimated Costs: AED 1,115 (excluding transportation and food)