Dubai Adventure: 7-Day Itinerary

Thursday, January 4: Arrival in Dubai

Morning: Start your Dubai adventure with a visit to the iconic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Enjoy spectacular views of the city from the observation deck.

Afternoon: Head to Dubai Mall, adjacent to the Burj Khalifa, for some shopping and a visit to the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo.

Evening: Experience the traditional Emirati culture at the Dubai Creek. Take an abra ride (traditional wooden boat) along the creek and explore the historic districts of Bastakiya and Al Fahidi.

• Burj Khalifa: Ticket prices start from approximately £27 ($35). Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Dubai Mall: Free admission. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Dubai Creek: Abra ride costs approximately £1.50 ($2). Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.

Friday, January 5: Exploring Dubai's Modern Side

Morning: Visit the Palm Jumeirah, an artificial palm-shaped island. Take a monorail ride to the Atlantis, The Palm hotel and enjoy the beautiful beach.

Afternoon: Immerse yourself in the glitz and glamour of Dubai Marina. Take a walk along the marina promenade and have lunch at one of the waterfront restaurants.

Evening: Head to the Dubai Marina Mall for some shopping and enjoy a relaxing dinner while overlooking the marina.

• Palm Jumeirah: Free admission. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.
• Dubai Marina: Free admission. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Dubai Marina Mall: Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.

Saturday, January 6: Skydiving and Desert Safari

Morning: Experience the exhilarating thrill of skydiving at Skydive Dubai. Soar through the sky and enjoy breathtaking views of Dubai's skyline.

Afternoon: Embark on a thrilling desert safari. Ride over the sand dunes in a 4x4 vehicle, try sandboarding, and experience camel riding.

Evening: Watch a mesmerizing sunset in the desert and indulge in a traditional Bedouin-style dinner while being entertained by belly dancers and a live tanoura show.

• Skydive Dubai: Tandem skydive prices start from approximately £380 ($500). Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.
• Desert Safari: Prices start from approximately £45 ($60) per person. Estimated time spent: 6-7 hours.

Sunday, January 7: Day Trip to Abu Dhabi

Morning: Take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. Visit the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, an architectural masterpiece.

Afternoon: Explore the cultural district of Saadiyat Island, home to world-class museums like the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi (both opened in recent years).

Evening: Head to the Yas Island and enjoy the thrilling rides of Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, a theme park dedicated to the famous Italian sports car brand.

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free admission. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: Ticket prices start from approximately £12 ($16). Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Guggenheim Abu Dhabi: Under construction as of 2024.
• Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Ticket prices start from approximately £60 ($80). Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.

Monday, January 8: Dubai Marina and JBR Beach

Morning: Return to Dubai Marina and take a yacht cruise along the coast, enjoying views of the city's stunning skyline and iconic landmarks.

Afternoon: Spend the afternoon relaxing and soaking up the sun at Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR). Take a dip in the clear blue waters or enjoy water sports activities.

Evening: Indulge in a delicious seafood dinner at one of the many waterfront restaurants at The Walk, a bustling promenade in JBR.

• Dubai Marina Yacht Cruise: Prices start from approximately £90 ($120) per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• JBR Beach: Free admission. Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.
• The Walk: Prices vary depending on the restaurant. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.

Tuesday, January 9: Dubai Parks and Resorts

Morning: Head to Dubai Parks and Resorts, an entertainment complex featuring several theme parks. Start your day at Motiongate Dubai, a Hollywood-inspired theme park.

Afternoon: Visit Bollywood Parks Dubai, where you can experience the vibrant world of Indian cinema through thrilling rides, live shows, and delicious Indian cuisine.

Evening: Enjoy the rides and attractions of Legoland Dubai, perfect for both kids and adults. End the day with a visit to Riverland Dubai for dining and shopping.

• Motiongate Dubai: Ticket prices start from approximately £55 ($73). Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours.
• Bollywood Parks Dubai: Ticket prices start from approximately £38 ($50). Estimated time spent: 4-5 hours.
• Legoland Dubai: Ticket prices start from approximately £45 ($60). Estimated time spent: 3-4 hours.
• Riverland Dubai: Free admission. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.

Wednesday, January 10: Dubai Souks and Dhow Cruise

Morning: Explore the traditional markets of Dubai, starting with the Gold Souk, where you can browse a dazzling array of gold, diamonds, and other precious gemstones.

Afternoon: Visit the Spice Souk, filled with aromatic spices, herbs, and traditional fragrances. Don't miss out on the nearby Perfume Souk for unique scents.

Evening: End your Dubai adventure with a relaxing dhow cruise along Dubai Marina or Dubai Creek. Enjoy a buffet dinner and entertainment as you cruise past the city's illuminated skyline.

• Gold Souk: Free admission. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.
• Spice Souk: Free admission. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Perfume Souk: Free admission. Estimated time spent: 1-2 hours.
• Dhow Cruise: Prices start from approximately £30 ($40) per person. Estimated time spent: 2-3 hours.

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

For those looking to explore off the beaten path, consider visiting Alserkal Avenue in Dubai's industrial area, an artistic hub showcasing contemporary art galleries and cultural spaces. Another hidden gem includes the Hatta Pools, a natural oasis nestled amidst the Hajar Mountains, perfect for hiking, swimming, and picnicking.

Check hotel and flight prices here.