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One Week Shoestring Budget Itinerary in Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Get ready for a week of exploring everything for free or less. Please note that public places like Dubai Mall are best avoided on Fridays and Saturdays. To find the best deals on hotels and flights, check out Kayak.com.

Sunday, January 7: Discover Old Dubai

Start your day by visiting Al Fahidi Historic District, also known as the Bastakiya Quarter. Explore the narrow lanes, traditional courtyard houses, and art galleries. In the afternoon, head to the Dubai Museum located in the Al Fahidi Fort. Wrap up your day by taking a traditional abra (water taxi) across Dubai Creek to the Spice Souk and Gold Souk.

  • Al Fahidi Historic District: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Dubai Museum: AED 3 (USD 0.82), 1-2 hours
  • Abra Ride: AED 1 (USD 0.27), 1-2 hours
  • Spice Souk and Gold Souk: Free to explore, 1-2 hours
Monday, January 8: Jumeirah Beach and Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Spend your morning at Jumeirah Beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the beautiful views of the Burj Al Arab. In the afternoon, visit Souk Madinat Jumeirah, a traditional Arabian market. Explore the shops, enjoy a meal with a view, and take a relaxing abra ride along the waterways.

  • Jumeirah Beach: Free, 2-4 hours
  • Souk Madinat Jumeirah: Free to explore, additional cost for shopping and dining, 2-3 hours
Tuesday, January 9: Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah

Start your day at Dubai Marina, a waterfront promenade lined with impressive skyscrapers. Take a walk along the marina, enjoy the stunning architecture, and have breakfast at one of the many cafes. In the afternoon, visit the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree. Take a monorail ride to Atlantis, The Palm and explore the Lost Chambers Aquarium.

  • Dubai Marina: Free, 3-4 hours
  • Palm Jumeirah: Free to explore, additional cost for monorail and aquarium, 2-3 hours
Wednesday, January 10: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Spend your day at Dubai Parks and Resorts, an entertainment complex featuring multiple theme parks. Visit Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, or Legoland Dubai. Enjoy thrilling rides, live shows, and immersive experiences. Take a break for lunch at one of the dining options within the parks.

  • Dubai Parks and Resorts: Check website for ticket prices, full day
Thursday, January 11: Dubai Miracle Garden and Global Village

Start your day by exploring Dubai Miracle Garden, a stunning floral paradise. Admire the breathtaking displays of flowers and take plenty of photos. In the afternoon, head to Global Village, a multicultural extravaganza offering shopping, dining, and live performances from around the world. Experience different cultures and indulge in delicious street food.

  • Dubai Miracle Garden: AED 50 (USD 13.61), 2-3 hours
  • Global Village: AED 15 (USD 4.08), additional cost for food and attractions, 3-4 hours
Friday, January 12: Dubai Desert Safari

Embark on an exciting Dubai Desert Safari adventure. Enjoy dune bashing in a 4x4 vehicle, try sandboarding, go camel riding, and experience a thrilling desert sunset. Indulge in a delicious BBQ dinner under the stars while being entertained by traditional performances.

  • Dubai Desert Safari: Check website for tour prices, afternoon to evening
Saturday, January 13: City Walk and Dubai Fountain Show

Spend your last day exploring City Walk, a vibrant outdoor shopping and dining destination. Browse through the trendy boutiques, enjoy a variety of cuisines, and soak in the lively atmosphere. In the evening, head to the Dubai Fountain, the world's largest choreographed fountain system, to witness a mesmerizing show of lights and water dance.

  • City Walk: Free to explore, additional cost for shopping and dining, 3-4 hours
  • Dubai Fountain Show: Free, 30 minutes

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those seeking off the beaten path attractions on a shoestring budget, consider visiting Al Qudra Lakes, a serene desert oasis perfect for picnics and birdwatching. Explore the Alserkal Avenue, a hub for contemporary art galleries and creative spaces. Don't miss the Camel Museum in Al Shindagha Historic District, which offers insights into Dubai's rich cultural heritage and its historical ties to camels.

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