7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Dubai

Day 1: Exploring Old Dubai

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at Local Cafe

Start your day with a traditional Arabic breakfast at a local cafe near Dubai Creek.
AED 20, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Dubai Museum

Immerse yourself in the history of Dubai at the Dubai Museum located in Al Fahidi Fort.
AED 3, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Arabian Tea House

Enjoy a delicious and affordable lunch at the Arabian Tea House in the Al Fahidi Historic District.
AED 30, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Dubai Gold Souk

Stroll through the bustling alleyways of Dubai Gold Souk and marvel at the dazzling displays of gold jewelry.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Relax at Jumeirah Beach

Unwind at the picturesque Jumeirah Beach and catch a beautiful sunset over the Arabian Gulf.
Free, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Bu Qtair

Indulge in fresh seafood at Bu Qtair, a local favorite known for its delicious and budget-friendly dishes.
AED 50, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: Modern Dubai

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at Baker & Spice

Start your day with a healthy breakfast at Baker & Spice in Dubai Marina.
AED 25, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Dubai Marina

Take a leisurely walk along the Dubai Marina promenade and admire the stunning skyscrapers and luxury yachts.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Operation: Falafel

Grab a quick and tasty falafel wrap at Operation: Falafel for a budget-friendly lunch option.
AED 20, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Global Village

Explore the diverse cultural pavilions and enjoy shopping for souvenirs at Global Village.
AED 15, 3 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Al Mallah

Savor authentic Lebanese cuisine at Al Mallah, a popular spot for delicious and affordable Middle Eastern dishes.
AED 40, 1.5 hours
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Day 3: Historic Dubai

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at Local Bakery

Start your day with a freshly baked pastry and Arabic coffee from a local bakery in the Al Fahidi Historic District.
AED 15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Explore Al Fahidi Historic District

Wander through the winding lanes of Al Fahidi Historic District, home to restored wind-tower houses and art galleries.
Free, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Local Shawarma Stand

Grab a quick and delicious shawarma wrap from a local stand for a budget-friendly lunch.
AED 10, 1 hour

3:00PM

Visit Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House

Explore the historic Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House and learn about Dubai's ruling family history.
AED 5, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Shopping at Textile Souk

Browse and haggle for colorful fabrics and textiles at the vibrant Textile Souk in Bur Dubai.
Varies, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Ravi Restaurant

Enjoy a hearty Pakistani meal at Ravi Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delicious and affordable dishes.
AED 30, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Nature and Adventure

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at Filli Cafe

Start your day with a cup of karak chai and delicious paratha at Filli Cafe, a popular spot for chai lovers.
AED 15, 1 hour

10:30AM

Hike at Hatta Mountain

Embark on a budget-friendly hiking adventure at Hatta Mountain, where you can enjoy stunning views of the rugged terrain.
AED 10, 3 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Hatta Hill Park

Picnic amidst nature at Hatta Hill Park and savor a simple yet satisfying lunch surrounded by greenery.
AED 20, 1 hour

4:00PM

Kayaking at Hatta Dam

Rent a kayak and paddle along the tranquil waters of Hatta Dam for a peaceful and adventurous experience.
AED 30, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at Last Exit

Grab a variety of affordable food options at Last Exit, a cool food truck park with a range of cuisines to choose from.
AED 40, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Cultural Exploration

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at Karak House

Enjoy a traditional Emirati breakfast at Karak House, known for its delicious karak chai and local dishes.
AED 30, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Etihad Museum

Immerse yourself in the history of the United Arab Emirates at the Etihad Museum, showcasing the country's heritage and development.
AED 25, 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Aseelah

Indulge in a fusion of Emirati and Middle Eastern flavors at Aseelah for a unique and affordable dining experience.
AED 50, 1 hour

3:00PM

Explore Alserkal Avenue

Discover Dubai's vibrant art scene at Alserkal Avenue, home to galleries, studios, and creative spaces showcasing local talent.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Attend a Cultural Workshop

Participate in a traditional art or craft workshop to learn more about Emirati culture and craftsmanship.
AED 50, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Local Market

Try authentic Emirati street food at a local market for a taste of Dubai's culinary delights at affordable prices.
AED 40, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Dubai Desert Safari

Dubai, UAE

3:00PM

Afternoon Desert Safari

Embark on an exhilarating desert safari adventure with dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding in the Dubai desert.
AED 150, 4 hours

7:00PM

BBQ Dinner under the Stars

Enjoy a traditional BBQ dinner under the starlit sky at a desert camp, accompanied by live music and entertainment.
AED 100, 2 hours

9:00PM

Stargazing and Bonfire

Relax by the bonfire, gaze at the twinkling stars, and listen to Bedouin tales for a magical desert evening experience.
Free, 1 hour
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Day 7: Farewell to Dubai

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at Sikka Cafe

Savor a fusion of Emirati and Indian flavors for breakfast at Sikka Cafe, a charming spot in the heart of Dubai.
AED 40, 1 hour

10:30AM

Shopping at Dubai Spice Souk

Explore the aromatic alleys of Dubai Spice Souk and shop for exotic spices, herbs, and teas as souvenirs.
Varies, 1.5 hours

12:00PM

Visit Burj Khalifa

Head to the iconic Burj Khalifa for panoramic views of Dubai from the observation deck, a must-visit before leaving the city.
AED 149, 2 hours

3:00PM

Lunch at Ravi Restaurant

Enjoy one last meal at Ravi Restaurant, savoring the flavors of Pakistani cuisine before departing Dubai.
AED 30, 1 hour

5:00PM

Explore Dubai Mall

Take a leisurely stroll through the vast Dubai Mall, browse shops, and witness the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show.
Varies, 2 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Operation: Falafel

End your Dubai adventure with a casual and satisfying dinner at Operation: Falafel, reminiscing about your budget-friendly journey.
AED 35, 1.5 hours
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