7-Day Adventure & Foodie Itinerary in Dubai on a Shoestring Budget

Day 1: Arrival & Exploration

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at Arabian Tea House

Start your day with a traditional Emirati breakfast featuring dishes like Shakshuka and freshly brewed mint tea in a charming setting.
Head to the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood afterwards.
AED 40, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Dubai Museum

Explore the history of Dubai through engaging exhibits in this fascinating museum housed in the oldest building in Dubai.
Walk 10 minutes to the nearest Metro station.
AED 3, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Ravi Restaurant

Enjoy a delicious and affordable Pakistani meal at this local favorite known for its generous portions and flavorful dishes.
Take a taxi to avoid walking in the heat.
AED 30, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Al Seef District

Stroll along the charming waterfront promenade with shops, cafes, and cultural activities, reflecting the spirit of old Dubai.
Walk back to the Al Seef area.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Dubai Creek Dhow Cruise

Take a scenic traditional wooden boat cruise to see the stunning skyline and get a feel for the historical architecture of the area.
Purchase tickets at the creekside.
AED 60, 1.5 hours

6:00PM

Dinner at Al Fiera Restaurant

Dig into a hearty meal of Middle Eastern grilled meats and fresh salads with an affordable price, perfect to end your first day.
A short taxi ride from the cruise terminal.
AED 50, 1 hour
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Day 2: Modern Marvels

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at The Sum of Us

Savor a delicious breakfast featuring freshly baked goods and artisanal coffee to fuel your day of sightseeing.
Travel via Metro to the Al Jafiliya station.
AED 55, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Burj Khalifa

Embark on an unforgettable journey to the 148th floor of the tallest building in the world for breathtaking views over the Dubai skyline.
Use the Metro to the Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall station.
AED 159, 2 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Shake Shack

Grab a quick lunch featuring their famous burgers and crinkle-cut fries in the Dubai Mall food court.
Walk to the food court in the mall.
AED 45, 1 hour

2:00PM

Explore Dubai Mall Aquarium

Marvel at the impressive aquatic displays, including one of the largest suspended aquariums in the world.
Located inside Dubai Mall; follow signage.
AED 110, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Visit The Dubai Fountain

Enjoy the mesmerizing fountain show set against the backdrop of the Burj Khalifa, a photographic opportunity you cannot miss.
Walk outside of the mall.
Free, 30 minutes

5:00PM

Explore Souk Al Bahar

Wander through this beautiful marketplace with artisanal shops offering a traditional touch and a modern flair.
Walk across the bridge from Dubai Mall.
Free, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Al Bait Al Qadeem

Taste authentic Arab dishes in this cozy restaurant with traditional decor, completing your second day perfectly.
Take a short taxi ride back to your hotel.
AED 70, 1 hour
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Day 3: Desert Adventure

Dubai, UAE

7:00AM

Early Breakfast at Hotel

Enjoy a hearty breakfast at your hotel to prepare for a day in the desert.
Dine in the hotel restaurant before pickup.
Included in hotel cost, 1 hour

8:30AM

Desert Safari Tour

Embark on an unforgettable desert safari that includes dune bashing, camel riding, and a visit to a Bedouin camp.
Pick up will be arranged from your hotel.
AED 350, 6 hours

2:30PM

Lunch at the Desert Camp

Indulge in a delicious barbecue lunch served at the desert camp as part of your tour.
Included in your desert tour.
Included, 1 hour

3:30PM

Continue Desert Activities

Enjoy additional activities like henna painting, falconry, and traditional Arabian entertainment.
Arranged through the tour.
Included in tour cost, 2 hours

5:30PM

Return to Hotel

Relax and freshen up before dinner in your hotel after a thrilling day.
Drop-off will be part of the tour.
Included, 1 hour

7:00PM

Dinner at Karam Beirut

Savor Lebanese specialties like Kibbeh and Tawook in a casual, inviting ambiance.
A short taxi ride from your hotel.
AED 60, 1 hour
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Day 4: Cultural Insights

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at Bites & Brunch

Dine on a unique breakfast experience featuring fusion dishes that include Middle Eastern and Western elements.
Take Metro to the Al Jadaf station.
AED 50, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Dubai Frame

Step into the iconic Dubai Frame to enjoy panoramic views of both the old and new city from its sky deck.
Walk from the Metro station to the frame.
AED 50, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Al Mallah

Dine at this eatery known for its delicious shawarmas and fresh juices, ideal to recharge after sightseeing.
A 15-minute taxi ride.
AED 40, 1 hour

2:00PM

Visit Global Village

Explore this cultural festival park featuring pavilions from around the world, showcasing food, crafts, and entertainment.
Take a taxi to Global Village.
AED 15, 3 hours

5:00PM

Explore Local Markets

Discover traditional bazaars and souvenir shops in the Deira area, where you can bargain for local goods.
Take a taxi to Old Dubai.
Free, 1.5 hours

6:30PM

Dinner at Qbara Restaurant

Wrap up your day with contemporary Middle Eastern cuisine in a stylish setting, complete with unique Arabian hospitality.
A short taxi ride back to the main tourist attractions.
AED 120, 1.5 hours
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Day 5: Shopping & Entertainment

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at Baker & Spice

Enjoy a healthy gourmet breakfast focusing on locally sourced ingredients, perfect for a busy day ahead.
Take a taxi to Souk Al Bahar.
AED 55, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit Mall of the Emirates

Spend the morning shopping in one of Dubai's premier malls and check out the indoor ski slope for a unique twist.
Take a taxi to the mall.
Free to enter, activities extra., 2 hours

1:00PM

Lunch at Din Tai Fung

Satisfy your hunger with world-famous dumplings and delicious noodles in a chic dining atmosphere.
Located within Mall of the Emirates.
AED 70, 1 hour

2:30PM

Visit Ski Dubai

Enjoy a unique experience on the indoor slopes, including skiing or tobogganing, a great escape from the desert heat.
Purchase tickets at Ski Dubai inside the mall.
AED 250, 2.5 hours

5:00PM

Visit La Mer Beach

Relax at this vibrant beachfront destination with shops, restaurants, and excellent views of the Arabian Gulf.
Take a taxi to La Mer.
Free, 2 hours

7:00PM

Dinner at The Beach House

Relish a delightful beachfront dinner with freshly caught seafood and panoramic views at sunset.
Take a taxi to the restaurant.
AED 100, 1.5 hours
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Day 6: Culinary Delights

Dubai, UAE

9:00AM

Breakfast at Wild & The Moon

Sip on organic cold-pressed juices along with healthy breakfast bowls for a refreshing start to your day.
Take a taxi to Jumeirah.
AED 60, 1 hour

10:30AM

Visit the Jumeirah Mosque

Join a guided tour of this stunning mosque, the only one in Dubai open to non-Muslim visitors for cultural insights.
Walk 15 minutes from the cafe.
AED 35, 1.5 hours

12:30PM

Lunch at Bu Qtair

Dine on some of the best seafood in Dubai, served fresh and straight from the grill at this local gem.
Take a taxi to Bu Qtair Beach.
AED 70, 1.5 hours

2:00PM

Visit Kite Beach

Relax at Kite Beach, known for its scenic views and laid-back vibe, perfect for midday refreshments.
Short walk from Bu Qtair.
Free, 2 hours

4:30PM

Take a Food Tour

Join a guided food tour that introduces you to various Emirati foods through markets and local stalls.
Your tour will arrange the pickup.
AED 250, 3 hours

8:00PM

Dinner at Zuma

Experience the exquisite Japanese cuisine at this upscale venue, a true treat to your culinary adventure in Dubai.
A taxi will take you there after the tour concludes.
AED 350, 1.5 hours
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Day 7: Relaxing & Departure

Dubai, UAE

8:00AM

Breakfast at Café Rider

Enjoy a unique breakfast experience at this cafe, known for its artisan coffee and creative dishes.
Take a taxi to Café Rider.
AED 50, 1 hour

9:30AM

Visit Dubai Miracle Garden

Explore stunning floral displays at this extraordinary garden filled with unique designs and vivid colors.
Take a taxi to Dubai Miracle Garden.
AED 55, 2 hours

11:30AM

Relax at a Spa

Book a relaxing treatment at a local spa, allowing you to unwind before your departure.
Choose a nearby spa or ask your hotel for recommendations.
Approx. AED 250, 2 hours

2:00PM

Last Lunch in Dubai

Enjoy a farewell lunch at The Scene by Simon Rimmer, featuring British classics with a Middle Eastern twist.
Return to your hotel to refresh, then a taxi to lunch.
AED 90, 1.5 hours

4:00PM

Departure

Say goodbye to Dubai as you make your way to the airport, reflecting on an unforgettable adventure.
Arrange a taxi to the airport.
Varies, 1 hour
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