7-Day Shoestring Budget Itinerary for Abu Dhabi and Dubai

Day 1: Exploring Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, UAE

8:00AM

Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Start your day by exploring the stunning architecture of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest mosques in the world.
Take a taxi or public bus to the mosque. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

11:00AM

Explore Qasr Al Watan

Visit the presidential palace of Qasr Al Watan and marvel at its intricate design and beautiful gardens.
Qasr Al Watan is a short taxi ride from the mosque.
AED 60, 1.5 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Al Mina Seafood

Enjoy a delicious and affordable seafood lunch at Al Mina Seafood restaurant.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to the restaurant.
AED 50, 1 hour

2:30PM

Stroll along Corniche Beach

Relax by taking a leisurely stroll along the picturesque Corniche Beach and enjoy the beautiful views.
Corniche Beach is a short walk or taxi ride from Al Mina Seafood.
Free, 2 hours

5:00PM

Visit Heritage Village

Immerse yourself in the traditional Emirati culture at Heritage Village, showcasing local crafts and customs.
Heritage Village is a quick taxi ride from Corniche Beach.
AED 10, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Al Dhafra Restaurant

End your day with a scrumptious Emirati dinner at Al Dhafra Restaurant, known for its authentic dishes.
Take a taxi or walk to the restaurant.
AED 80, 1.5 hours
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Day 2: More of Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, UAE

9:00AM

Explore Louvre Abu Dhabi

Spend your morning exploring the magnificent art collections at the Louvre Abu Dhabi museum.
Louvre Abu Dhabi is a short taxi ride from your accommodation.
AED 60, 2 hours

11:30AM

Visit Marina Mall

Shop for souvenirs and enjoy a quick bite at Marina Mall, offering a range of shops and dining options.
Marina Mall is a short taxi ride from the museum.
Variable, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Lebanese Flower Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious Lebanese lunch at the budget-friendly Lebanese Flower Restaurant.
Take a taxi or walk to the restaurant.
AED 40, 1 hour

3:30PM

Explore Al Hosn Palace

Discover the historic Al Hosn Palace, also known as the White Fort, and learn about Abu Dhabi's heritage.
Al Hosn Palace is a short taxi ride from the restaurant.
AED 30, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dine at Al Arish Restaurant

Enjoy a traditional Emirati dinner at Al Arish Restaurant, known for its cultural ambiance and authentic cuisine.
Take a taxi or walk to the restaurant.
AED 70, 2 hours
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Day 3: Arrival in Dubai

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Visit The Dubai Mall

Start your Dubai adventure by exploring the iconic Dubai Mall, known for its shopping, entertainment, and stunning aquarium.
Take a taxi or public transport to The Dubai Mall. The journey takes about 1 hour.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at The Cheesecake Factory

Indulge in a delicious lunch at The Cheesecake Factory, offering a variety of cuisines to suit all tastes.
The Cheesecake Factory is located within The Dubai Mall.
AED 60, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Burj Khalifa

Head to the observation deck of the iconic Burj Khalifa for panoramic views of Dubai's skyline.
Burj Khalifa is a short walk from The Dubai Mall.
AED 135, 2 hours

4:30PM

Visit Dubai Fountain Show

Witness the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain Show outside The Dubai Mall, set against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa.
The Dubai Fountain is located near The Dubai Mall.
Free, 30 minutes

6:00PM

Dinner at Al Mallah Restaurant

Enjoy a sumptuous Lebanese dinner at Al Mallah Restaurant, offering affordable and delicious dishes.
Take a taxi or walk to the restaurant.
AED 50, 1.5 hours
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Day 4: Exploring Dubai

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Desert Safari Tour

Embark on a thrilling desert safari tour to experience dune bashing, camel riding, and traditional entertainment.
Book a desert safari tour that includes pick-up from your accommodation.
AED 150, 5 hours

3:00PM

Visit Dubai Marina

Explore the vibrant Dubai Marina area, known for its skyscrapers, waterfront promenade, and luxurious yachts.
Take a taxi or public transport to Dubai Marina. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Free, 2 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Operation: Falafel

Enjoy a casual and delicious dinner at Operation: Falafel, offering a variety of Middle Eastern street food.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to the restaurant.
AED 40, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Abu Dhabi Farewell

Abu Dhabi, UAE

9:00AM

Explore Yas Island

Spend your last day in Abu Dhabi exploring Yas Island, home to attractions like Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld.
Take a taxi or public transport to Yas Island. The journey takes about 45 minutes.
Variable, 4 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Shawarma Time

Enjoy a quick and tasty shawarma for lunch at Shawarma Time on Yas Island.
Shawarma Time is located on Yas Island.
AED 20, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Yas Marina Circuit

Explore the famous Yas Marina Circuit and take a walk around the stunning marina.
Yas Marina Circuit is within walking distance from Shawarma Time.
Free, 1.5 hours

4:30PM

Shop at Marina Mall Abu Dhabi

Spend some time shopping for last-minute souvenirs at Marina Mall Abu Dhabi before heading to Dubai.
Take a taxi to Marina Mall Abu Dhabi. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Variable, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dine at Reem Al Bawadi

Enjoy a delightful dinner at Reem Al Bawadi, known for its Middle Eastern cuisine and relaxed atmosphere.
Take a taxi or walk to the restaurant.
AED 60, 2 hours
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Day 6: Dubai Exploration

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Visit Dubai Museum

Start your day by exploring the Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort, showcasing the city's history and culture.
Take a taxi or public transport to Dubai Museum. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
AED 3, 2 hours

11:30AM

Explore Gold Souk

Discover the dazzling Gold Souk in Deira, where you can browse and shop for exquisite gold jewelry.
Take a taxi or public transport to Gold Souk. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Free to browse, 2 hours

2:00PM

Lunch at Ravi Restaurant

Savor a delicious Pakistani lunch at the popular Ravi Restaurant, known for its flavorful dishes at affordable prices.
Take a taxi or walk to Ravi Restaurant.
AED 30, 1 hour

3:30PM

Shop at Dubai Spice Souk

Explore the vibrant and aromatic Spice Souk in Deira, offering a range of spices, herbs, and local products.
Walk or take a short taxi ride to Dubai Spice Souk.
Free to browse, 1.5 hours

5:30PM

Take an Abra Ride

Experience a traditional Abra boat ride across Dubai Creek, providing a unique perspective of the city.
Walk to the nearest Abra station in Deira.
AED 1, 30 minutes

7:00PM

Dinner at Bu Qtair

Enjoy a casual dinner at Bu Qtair, a hidden gem known for its delicious seafood dishes served in a simple setting.
Take a taxi to Bu Qtair restaurant.
AED 50, 2 hours
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Day 7: Last Day in Dubai

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Visit Jumeirah Beach

Spend your morning relaxing at the pristine Jumeirah Beach, known for its crystal-clear waters and stunning views.
Take a taxi or public transport to Jumeirah Beach. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Free, 3 hours

12:00PM

Lunch at Salt

Enjoy a beachside lunch at Salt, a popular food truck serving delicious burgers and snacks.
Salt is located at Kite Beach, a short walk from Jumeirah Beach.
AED 50, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Explore Dubai Marina Walk

Take a leisurely stroll along Dubai Marina Walk, lined with cafes, shops, and stunning views of the marina.
Walk or take a taxi to Dubai Marina Walk.
Free, 2 hours

4:00PM

Shop at Mall of the Emirates

Spend your afternoon shopping at Mall of the Emirates, home to a variety of stores and entertainment options.
Take a taxi or public transport to Mall of the Emirates. The journey takes about 30 minutes.
Variable, 3 hours

7:00PM

Farewell Dinner at Ravi's Roti

End your trip with a delicious Indian dinner at Ravi's Roti, known for its authentic flavors and budget-friendly prices.
Take a taxi to Ravi's Roti for dinner.
AED 40, 2 hours
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